Caren Penland

Join the EcoChallenge event on the Community Champion Portal to track qualifying actions. Select actions are eligible for matching funds going to EcoChallenge. Link provided in the dropdown menu.

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

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

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 2 meatless meals and/or 2 vegan meals each day this week.

I will spend 60 minutes learning about water justice in my region.

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.

I will watch 5 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 spend 15 minutes each day practicing mindfulness.

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

I will mend clothing for myself, family or friends.

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

This goal will allow us to learn more about sustainability, and also donate trees to the Arbor Day Foundation.

I will volunteer 2 hours in my community.

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 10 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.

I will watch 3 documentaries about climate change.

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