Jessica Lara

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 unwanted mail I receive (catalogs, phone books, etc.).

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency.

I will install a greywater catchment system in my home.

I will avoid wasting water while waiting for the shower or sink to heat up.

I will replace my lawn with a drought-tolerant landscape and save the water, money, and time I used to spend cutting the grass.

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 join an outdoor restoration project in my community.

I will organize one of NWEI's discussion courses, such as 'Reconnecting with Earth', with my family, friends, coworkers, or classmates.

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.

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

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

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

I will sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option.

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

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

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

I will save up to 8 gallons (30 L) of water each day by turning it off while brushing my teeth.

I will start a compost collection at home, work, or school.

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

I will save up to .21 lbs (.09 kg) of paper per day by switching from one-sided printing to two-sided.

I will save up to 20 gallons (75 L) of water each day by taking 5-minute showers.

I will avoid sending 5 disposable cup(s) to the landfill per day by using a reusable mug.

I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will avoid sending up to .69 lbs (.31 kg) of food waste to the landfill per day by composting my food or learning how to.

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

I will reduce the amount of paper mail that I receive by opting into paperless billing and subscriptions.

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

I will take a 15-minute walk outside each day.

I will replace manual thermostats with programmable ones.