Reina Vazquez

I will find out what local sustainability issues are most urgent in my region, including both social and environmental justice concerns.

I will learn what local organizations are working on sustainability issues and how I can get involved.

I will start a sustainability journal, capturing my thoughts, concerns and learning about sustainability issues.

I will join an outdoor restoration project in my community.

I will keep a journal this week as I observe ecological principles in action in my backyard, neighborhood or community.

I will find out if my local utilities offer an option for supporting renewable energy investment.

I will learn about water and air quality issues in my area, how they are impacting human and environmental health, and how I can help.

I will cook 3 meal(s) with zero waste each day this week.

I will reduce food waste and save money by planning a weekly menu, only buying the ingredients I need.

I will watch a documentary film about food with family and friends and talk about what we learned.

I will use a reusable bottle and stop purchasing bottled water, saving 3 disposable plastic bottle(s) each day this week.

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

I will start a 'Take Back the Tap' campaign on my campus.

I will create or support a sharing economy with family, friends, and neighbors.

I will buy from local businesses instead of shopping online.

I will install alternative energy systems, such as solar electric systems or solar water heaters.

I will watch or read the news each day this week with a specific focus on sustainability issues and happenings.

I will advocate for local and/or organic food options at work or on campus.

I will visit a nearby farm to pick my own fruits and veggies.

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency.

I will find local resources for learning about my watershed and the particular water issues my region faces.

I will offer to help 2 person(s) who are in need this week.

I will assess the vehicles used by my company or college and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on fuel-efficient vehicles.

I will visit a local dump/transfer station, material recovery facility, and/or landfill to learn about the waste stream.

I will create a rain garden or bioswale, or use rain barrels to collect water for outdoor watering needs.

I will reduce the amount of water flushed and save up to 11 gallons (41 L) of water per day by installing a toilet tank bank.

I will fix faucets or report leaky faucets to facilities that have been wasting up to 9 gallons (34 L) of water per faucet every day.

Plastic bags and small plastic pieces like straws are most likely to get swept into our waterways. This week, I'll say "no" to plastic bags at the store and plastic straws in all of my drinks.

I will watch The Story of Bottled Water to learn more about bottled water's impacts on the environment.

I will meet 2 new neighbor(s) this week.

I will not buy anything except items required for health and safety.

I will maintain a record of all my purchases.

I will watch one of the films suggested in the additional resources and discuss it with friends or family.

I will start a recycling program at my workplace or school. If a recycling program exists, I will advocate for ways to improve and expand it.

I will plant native species, landscape with water-efficient plants, and use eco-friendly fertilizers.