Ioana Verzes

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

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 sign up to the Sustainability Aficionados distribution list to receive global news on sustainability at Emerson, including world news and Greening OF, BY and WITH news.

I spend 15 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.

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

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

I will cook 1 meals with zero waste each day.

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

I will mend clothing for myself, family or friends.

I will watch 1 documentaries about food, water, or basic needs.

I will watch 1 documentaries about education or work.

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

For an upcoming vacation, I will spend 19 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 1 documentaries about equity, gender, health, or peace.

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

Instead of traveling by plane, I will find an alternative way to accomplish the goals of an upcoming trip (i.e. telepresence, vacation locally). As an example, a plane from New York to Los Angeles (~2,450 miles) generates about 65 tons of carbon dioxide.

I will make a few homemade cleaning products.

On Wed 19th April, I will attend Emerson's Global Earth Week Webinar to learn about the importance of individual action in our collective journey to sustainability.

I will watch 1 documentaries about economy, energy, or industry.