Petra Ruger

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

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

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency by mulching the base of trees and plants in my yard.

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

Instead of traveling by plane, I will find an alternative way to accomplish the goals of an upcoming trip (i.e. telepresence, vacation locally).

I will write or call 2 elected official(s) telling them not to support fossil fuel subsidies and instead support wind energy generation.

I will sign up for a Master Recycler/Composter program in my area.

I will donate to The Nature Conservancy, which works with Indigenous Peoples to secure land tenure and resource rights, support improved governance and local institutions, assist in natural resource mapping, planning and management; and strengthen livelihoods and sustainable economic development.

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

I will spend at least 60 minutes learning how local indigenous tribes are caring for the land by attending a training, workshop, or presentation.

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

I will test drive an electric bike at a local distributor to see if it makes sense to use one in place of my car, or to extend the area I can cover by bike.

I will cut my car trip mileage by only taking necessary trips, and I will only use muscle-powered transportation for all other trips.

I will cook 3 meal(s) with zero-waste each day

I will research and support local farmers who have made the decision to not use synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

I will start a compost bin where I live.

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

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

I will enjoy 3 meatless or vegan meal(s) each day of the challenge.