Ana Retamal Ortiz

Sometimes protecting nature requires feeling connected to nature. I will invest 30 minutes in exploring and appreciating a natural area in my region, whether a forest, wetland, coastal area, or somewhere else.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the environmental services provided by and the environmental issues affecting temperate forests.

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

I will raise funds to help make school affordable for girls around the world.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the need for family planning globally.

I will plan ahead to only use paper products made from post-consumer recycled paper for my home or office.

I will spend 15 minute(s) learning about the climate impact of refrigerants and what climate-friendly refrigerants are by using the links below.

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

I will replace 2 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

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

I will upgrade the windows or weatherstripping in my home or office to reduce air leaks and save on energy costs.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning how to properly dispose of my refrigerator, freezer, and other refrigerants at the end of their useful lives.

I will take a walk for 30 minutes each day and take note of the infrastructure that makes walking more or less enjoyable, accessible, and possible.

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 spend at least 30 minutes learning about green gentrification and how it relates to city planning for climate action.

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

I will find out how to make my home more energy efficient through better insulation and weatherization.

I will cook 2 meal(s) with zero-waste each day

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 Earth Month 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 enjoy 2 meatless or vegan meal(s) each day of the challenge.