Julie Hanson

I spend 20 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.

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

I will replace 2 incandescent light bulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will spend 20 learning about the past and present indigenous communities in my regions and what I can do to be supportive.

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

I will volunteer 2 hours in my community.

I will cook 1 meals with zero waste each day.

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.

I will watch 1 documentaries about climate change.

One kilogram of beef and cheese emits 71kg and 24kg of greenhouse gasses, while 1kg of rice, grains, and legumes emits between 2-4kg. Fruits, vegetables, and nuts emit less than 1kg per 1kg. I will reduce my climate impact by enjoying 1 meatless meals and/or 1 vegan meals each day this week.

I will replace 20 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.

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

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

During the workday, I will schedule time for daily breaks during work days to practice work-life balance.

I will save up to 6 gallons (23 L) of water each day by taking 5-minute showers. Tip: Use a timer to practice or count to 60 a few times.

Using the links provided below, I will research impact investing or my current investment portfolio to determine if they align with my values.

For an upcoming vacation, I will spend 30 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 4 documentaries about economy, energy, or industry.

I will watch 4 documentaries about education or work.

I will watch 4 documentaries about equity, gender, health, or peace.

I will try a new vegan or vegetarian recipe and share how it turns out on the Ecochallenge feed, or with family and friends.

I will watch 4 documentaries about food, water, or basic needs.

I will make 1 phone calls and/or send 1 emails to public officials to advocate for water habitat protection and clean up in my region.

On average, a tree absorbs 10 kilograms (22 pounds) of carbon dioxide yearly during the first 20 years. To do my part, I will plant 6 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.