Rose Jackson

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how different lifestyle choices could reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will spend 60 minutes researching which plants support local native pollinators and plant some in my yard.

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 each day that I do this.

I will switch to washing my clothes in cold water, saving up to 1,600 lbs of CO2 over the course of the next year.

I will replace 20 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will adjust my thermostat down 2 degrees from usual when I use the heat, and up 2 degrees when I use air conditioning.

I will spend 30 minutes researching toxic chemicals found in cleaning supplies and personal care products and remove them from my home.

Both systemic and personal sustainability are important! I will develop a plan with my medical professionals to achieve my best health and live my life to the fullest.

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

I will use the resources below to find where I can forage for my own food locally.

I will plant 3 tree(s) in my community, public parks, or backyard.

I will spend 15 minutes researching the impact of old harmful refrigerants on our environment.

I will upgrade the windows or weatherstripping in my home or office to reduce air leaks and save on energy costs.

I will replace manual thermostats with programmable ones.

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

I will source 1 meal(s) each day from local producers.

I will sign up for a local CSA (Community-Supported Agriculture).

I will organize one of Ecochallenge.org's discussion courses on food sustainability, Menu for the Future or Hungry for Change, with my family, friends, coworkers, or classmates.

I will try a new method of food preparation, such as canning, pickling, or baking bread.

I will plant an herb garden in my home, workplace, or dorm room.

I will purchase produce and meat from a local farmers market or food co-op.

I will reduce food waste and save money by prepping for 1 meal(s) each day, only buying the ingredients I need.

I will enjoy 1 meal(s) each day free of processed foods.

Access to affordable, nutritious food is a food justice issue. I will advocate for local and/or organic food options at work, on campus and/or in the spaces I frequent.

I will watch 1 documentary(ies) about food sovereignty: the right of local peoples to control their own food systems including markets, ecological resources, food cultures and production methods.

I will visit my nearest farm to find out who produces my food, and will learn about the quality of life of those around the world who produce my food in order to make better choices when I shop.