Martha McConnell

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

I will compost if possible. If NOT possible, I will spend 20 minutes researching the benefits of composting.

I will go to a farmers market 1x per week, or I will eat local at least 1 meal per week.

I will eat 3 meatless meals per week.

I will eat 3 meals per week without looking at my phone or TV.

I will turn off the faucet while brushing my teeth. I will only run the dishwasher and washing machine as a full load. I will use energy efficient mode if available.

Sometimes protecting nature requires feeling connected to nature. I will invest 60 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 10 minutes researching the impact of my diet to see how it contributes to deforestation.

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

I will replace 1 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will research and tell 10 people each day about the benefits of alternative energy sources like wind turbines, solar energy, geothermal energy, and methane digesters.

I will volunteer for a beach clean-up, campus clean-up / or pick up trash while on a walk ( I will be careful on being sanitary). If I am unable to do this, I will do something positive for my community.

When driving, avoid excessive accelerating/braking in order to reduce car emissions.

When possible, and COVID safe carpool to campus or to the store. Even better, get on your bike or walk. Make the conscience effort.

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 take a walk for 15 minutes each day and take note of the infrastructure that makes walking more or less enjoyable, accessible, and possible.

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

Every other day, or 3 x per week, research energy efficient technologies and renewable energy initiatives.

I will minimize A/C and close windows/doors when turned on. I will unplug electronics and appliances when not in use such as laptops, cellphones, coffee maker, toaster ovens (This does not include large items such as TVs/refrigerators).

I will spend at least 10 minutes learning how to differentiate between sell by, use by, and best by dates.

I will visit seafoodwatch.org or download the app and commit to making better seafood choices for a healthier ocean.

I will spend at least 15 minutes researching other Drawdown Food, Agriculture, and Land Use Solutions.

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