Cindy Thompson

I will reduce the amount of paper mail that I receive by 0.11lbs (0.05kg) a day or 41lbs (18.6kg) a year by opting into paperless billing, ending unwanted subscriptions and opting out of junk mail.

I will set up a visit to tour a green roof in my city, and ask about the codes and process for installing a green roof.

I will encourage my office to hold meetings virtually whenever possible instead of requiring travel.

I will avoid buying toxic plastics, including polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl and instead replace them with bioplastic or durable options.

I will save up to 15 gallons (56 L) of water a day by installing a low-flow showerhead.

I will replace 3 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

If I buy a plane ticket, I will purchase a carbon offset.

I will spend at least 15 minutes researching how to properly dispose of bioplastics in my city and share this information with 3 friends, family and/or colleagues.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning how to differentiate between sell by, use by, and best by dates.

I will plant 1 tree(s) in my community, public parks, or backyard.

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

I will use smaller plates and/or serve smaller portions when dishing out food.

I will enjoy 1 meatless or vegan meal(s) each day of the challenge.

I will watch a video about methane digesters (also commonly known as anaerobic digesters).

I will replace manual thermostats with smart ones.

I will volunteer 2 hours with a wetland restoration project in my region.

I will keep a daily log of food I throw away during the EcoChallenge, either because it went bad before I ate it, I put too much on my plate, or it was scraps from food preparation.

I will only purchase wood and paper products from ecologically certified sources like Forest Stewardship Council.

When they are available, I will purchase products made from bamboo instead of wood, plastic, or metal.