Erin Fitzpatrick-Bjorn

I will install alternative energy systems, e.g., solar electric systems or solar water heaters.

I will replace manual thermostats with programmable ones.

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

I will decide which social or environmental issue in my community is most important to me and tell 3 friends per day about the issue.

I will cut my car trip mileage by only taking necessary trips.

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

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

I will practice the seven principles of leave no trace when doing nature activities alone or with family and friends.

I will assess the vehicles used by my company or college and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on fuel-efficient vehicles.

I will start a compost collection at home, work, or school.

I will reduce the amount of paper mail that I receive by opting into paperless billing and/or unsubscribing from catalogs.

I will replace inefficient heating and cooling units.

I will cook 1 meal(s) with zero waste each day.

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

I will visit seafoodwatch.org or download the app and commit to making better seafood choices for a healthier ocean.

I will only use reusable containers for my lunches at work or school.

I will join my neighborhood association or another local group.

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 maintain a record of all my purchases.

I will raise money to support Northwest Earth Institute or another nonprofit.

I will disconnect from my email when not at work.

I will adopt a "Needs Vs. Wants" approach and only buy things I need.

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

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

I will keep 6 disposable plastic bottle(s) from entering the waste stream.

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

I will enjoy 3 meatless meal(s) per day.

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

I will de-clutter, clean, and donate or recycle unneeded items in my home.

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

I will save up to .21 lbs (.09 kg) of paper per day by switching from one-sided printing to two-sided at work.

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 that I do this.

I will complete a minimum of 3 of the October challenges in the Ignatian Carbon Challenge at work.

I will volunteer 15 hour(s) in my community.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 6 disposable plastic bottle(s) a day.

I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will enjoy 2 meal(s) cooked with organic ingredients per day.

I will avoid sending .69 lbs (.31 kg) of food waste to the landfill per day.