Neha Sood

I will spend 15 minutes reading the Ecochallenge feed each day and giving high fives or commenting on posts by people who I don't know, but whose content inspires or interests me.

I will make sure I'm registered to vote. While I'm at it, I’ll sign up to help others register too!

Racial inequity is both a sustainability and justice problem. I will support businesses owned by people of color in my community whenever I shop.

I will connect with a local nonprofit, environmental or otherwise, and find out how I can get involved or become a member.

Good sleep is essential for a healthy body and mind. I will prioritize getting 7 hours of quality sleep each night and develop a bedtime routine that supports rest and relaxation.

Cutting back on refined sugar can improve energy, mood, and overall health. I will limit my intake of sugary snacks and drinks by reducing refined sugar in meals or snacks each day.

I will power down my computer and monitor when not using it for more than 2 hours, saving up to (1.1) lbs of CO2 per day.

I will sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

I will spend 60 minutes learning more about renewable energy alternatives (i.e. solar, wind, biomass) in my region.

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

I will replace 30 minutes per day typically spent inside (computer time, watching television, etc.) with quality time outside.

Producing 1 kg of beef emits as much greenhouse gas as driving 150 miles, meanwhile, 1 kg of veggies or grains leaves a much lighter footprint! This week, I’ll shrink my climate impact by having 1 meatless meals and/or 1 vegan meals each day.

I will try to shop at a farmers market or food co-op, if one is accessible, to support local farmers and businesses. By doing so, I may be able to learn more about who produces the food I eat and goods I buy.

I will make 2 phone calls and/or send 2 emails per day to public officials or student leaders to advocate for stronger, more accessible public transportation systems on and around my campus.

Adding fruits and vegetables to our meals nourishes our body and the planet. I will prepare and enjoy 2 servings of a variety of colorful fruits and veggies.

We may find more meaning and joy in life when our actions are aligned with our personal values. I will determine what my top 3-5 core values are so that I can better align my actions with them.

Individual actions are important, but people and organizations working together can make a real impact. I will share a carbon or energy calculator with a friend and invite them to calculate the carbon footprint of their living space.

I will calculate my digital carbon footprint and take steps to reduce my CO2 emissions.

I will complete an online energy audit of my home, office, or dorm room and identify my next steps for saving energy.

Historically, marginalized and low-income communities live closer to landfills, contributing to a multitude of health problems. I will find out how I can limit single-use items and do my best to limit the waste I generate. I will keep 1 containers out of the landfill each day.