Natalie Heiden

I will reduce food waste and save money by planning a weekly menu, only buying the ingredients I need.

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

I will keep 1 disposable plastic bottle(s) from entering the waste stream.

I will replace manual thermostats with programmable ones.

I will disable screen savers and will put the computer to sleep instead, saving up to 28% % more energy.

Research or test drive an electric car or bike.

I will recycle all materials that are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 1 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

I will save up to 8 gallons (30 L) of water each day by turning it off while brushing my teeth.

I will take a walk each day.

I will avoid sending 1 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day.

I will keep lights, electronics, and appliances turned off when not using them.

I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will replace inefficient heating and cooling units.

I will save up to 12 gallons (45 L) of water a day by flushing only when necessary.

I will naturally heat and cool my house, office, or dorm room by opening or closing my windows, curtains, and blinds, and by using fans.

Two nights of the week (when I don't wash my hair or have to shave my legs) I will keep my shower to a 7 minute time limit. My goal is to conserve water. I chose this because the "5 minute shower daily challenge" is just not reasonable for me. But figured trying this modified version is better than nothing.