Leslie Ashley

Each day, I will spend 20 minutes exploring a new area around my neighborhood (e.g., park, water body, nearby trail, community garden, green space, etc.).

Studies show a grass lawn is water intensive and on average it require about 30 percent of a household’s water consumption. I will do one or more of the following actions in my yard or community to conserve water and improve habitat: plant indigenous plants, landscape with water-efficient plants, add mulching, replace a lawn, and/or use eco-friendly fertilizers.

I spend 30 minutes analyzing my recent utility bills, which might include electricity, gas, or water to see what my current usage is and determine if I can reduce my energy and water use.

Each day, I will spend time developing a readiness plan for my household in the event of an emergency.

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how lifestyle changes could reduce the carbon footprint and impacts on the environment.

It's not too late to join the challenge! Share your experience or something you've learned with a coworker.

Within my community at home or work, I will organize or attend a local cleanup event.

I will spend 10 minutes each day practicing mindfulness.

I will calculate my water footprint and look for a few ways I can reduce consumption or waste.

I will watch 2 documentaries about equity, gender, health, or peace.

I will use the communication methods I read about to practice effective, compassionate, and nonviolent communication with someone I interact with regularly (i.e., my roommate, parents, co-worker, partner, classmates, or children).

I will watch 2 documentaries about food, water, or basic needs.

I will find out what food programs are in my area and donate food and/or other items that they request.

I will spend 60 learning about the past and present indigenous communities in my regions and what I can do to be supportive.

I will spend 30 minutes learning about water justice in my region.

I will become a savvy produce shopper when buying organic and non-organic items.

For an upcoming vacation, I will spend 60 minutes planning out a staycation in my region. For reference, one several hour flight releases the equivalent of nearly 14% of the annual emissions from a car.

I will watch 2 documentaries about economy, energy, or industry.

I will replace 30 minute(s) per day typically spent inside (computer time, watching television, etc.) with quality time outside exercising, enjoying the sunrise/sunset, gardening, journaling, or practicing gratitude for nature.

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will plant pollinator-friendly plants in my area to support local pollinators.

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

Share the Ecochallenge on LinkedIn. Be sure to tag @Alliance Technical Group and include #ecochallenge2023.

I will contact my energy company to find out how to sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

I will mend clothing for myself, family or friends.

I will have a conversation with one or more nonprofit organizations I want to be involved with.