UFV Ecochallenge 2025

May have gotten busy and forgotten to check in for like 2 weeks! That's how October goes sometimes

I calculated my carbon footprint and was shocked to learn that I'm a Climate Villain at approximately 11.5 tons per year. I made a few commitments to try lower this such as walking/biking more, eating less beef and more vegetarian food, trying to prioritize in season and locally grown foods, and avoiding products with palm oil.

When walking in my neighbourhood I notice little things such as what plants people may have in their front garden or how well they maintain their property. I love when they have seasonal decorations outside and especially love taking a walk in the evening during December and seeing all the colourful lights!

I think it has to do with the NIMBY or "out of sight, out of mind" logic. We don't consciously think about what goes into our purchase, especially if we're shopping online. We hit the "checkout" button, and then wait for it to show up at our door, but we don't think about the in-between, or even the before and after.

This action has been a difficult one for me to meet consistently, I go to bed too late and get up too early. What does help me go to sleep better though is turning off my screen at least 30 minutes before bedtime, dimming the lights, lowering the temperature in the bedroom and reading a good book!

We're getting close to the end of this great challenge....I'm just trying to get caught up on some of my actions and reflections!

I've started unplugging alot more small things when they aren't in use such as the kettle, electric toothbrush, USB chargers and other small appliances and electronics. According to BC Hydro, these "energy vampires" can account for 10% of your hydro bill when plugged in all the time even when turned off!

For me, daily exercise helps reduce stress, keeps the weight off and makes my clothes feel like they fit better. I love lifting weights, but also enjoy yoga for the stretching and relaxation!

I've been composting for years and the change I've noticed is since my municipality has introduced weekly curbside compost collection, no food goes into the garbage. The food I used to throw out (meats and fish waste) can now go in the curbside compost bin. To avoid a stinky compost bin, we freeze the meat/fish waste in a paper bag and put it...

Ready to get back on track!