Nicole Newman

I will replace my halogen desk lamp with an LED bulb.

I will avoid buying toxic plastics, including polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl.

I will learn more about my own local watershed and where my water comes from and identify any conservation or water quality issues.

I will purchase produce and meat from a local farmers market or food co-op, or join a CSA.

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

I will go to an outdoor club or similar group's meeting or event.

I will conserve water by only doing full loads of laundry.

I will switch to washing my clothes in cold water, saving up to 1,600 lbs of C02 over the course of the next year.

I will spend time getting acquainted with the nature on or near my campus.

I will take a 20-minute hike in nature.

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 reduce the amount of unwanted mail I receive (catalogs, phone books, etc.).

I will carefully fill my plate in the dining hall and take only what I can eat. I'll also inquire about ways to improve composting and use of recyclable foodware.

I will enjoy 2 meal(s) per day free of processed foods.

I will cut out or reduce all artificial sweeteners in my diet, especially acesulfame potassium, aspartame, sucralose and saccharin - all which can decrease human health and pollute our waterways.

I will enjoy 2 meatless meal(s) per day.

I will exercise daily for 30 minute(s) per day for two weeks.

I will not purchase anything but food during the challenge.

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

I will only use reusable containers for my lunches at work or school.

I will keep lights, electronics, and appliances turned off when not using them.

I will adopt a "Needs Vs. Wants" approach and only buy things I need.

I will keep 1 disposable plastic bottle(s) from entering the waste stream by using a reusable water bottle.

I will not use any disposable plates, cups, or cutlery.

I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will only purchase bulk food items and avoid all single-package items.

I will disable screen savers and will put the computer to sleep instead, saving up to 28% % more energy.

I will recycle all materials that are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community.

I will check labels on my shampoo, lotions and/or beauty products. I'll replace products that use known carcinogens such as formaldehyde, cocamide diethanolamine, DMDM hydantoin or benzene.

I will make a stronger effort to eat leftovers, because I either don't end up saving enough food or I forget that I have them to eat later and then they go bad. This will help reduce my food waste!