My Ecochallenge this year was to understand and become more proficient in reducing waste especially now that I live here in Hawaii. It was much easier in Oregon. Waste management is very challenging on an island with limited space, high shipping costs and 8 million tourists.  A limited amount of clean paper and cardboard is recycled but much of that type of waste goes to an incinerator which generates electricity.  For me to recycle white paper, cardboard and most plastics, I have to carry or drive those to obscure drop off locations.  I can bring small amounts of paper to work.   I found a drop center for plastic this week and am still searching for the best place for corrugated cardboard.  After carrying cardboard for a month in my car, I found this site (pictured) on the West side of Oahu.  I was happy to finally find a recycling site for my corrugated cardboard. Unfortunately it is too far from where iIlive.  I learned a lot and I am inspired to promote additional recycling at my condo building and at work. When it comes to waste, Every thing I do makes a difference!

   

Getting more sleep is proving the most difficult challenge and remembering to log on is too!  Too many things to do!

Yup way more difficult to do things daily when I’m back at work.  Not just getting things done but remembering to log them. 

I did better today by taking dishes with me in my backpack and used at a meeting. Also, instead of using a paper cup for coffee, I used my mug from home.  Little changes to break habits.  It is less convenient but I feel good about it.

Three days and counting.  Finding decluttering   to be much easier doing a little day by day.  One flat surface at a time. 

Another day down, how many more?

OK, day one and I could have been more prepared and successful.  It is not hard, just need to change habits.  Relied on a paper plate and a disposable plastic spoon because I was in a hurry and forgot to bring my own.  I will have another opportunity tomorrow.  Time to get serious! Living on Oahu with limited space makes my actions even more important.  

Off to a great start, but I’m on leave so it will be s much greater challenge when I go back to work. 

Last year I only selected one challenge. This year I've upped it to four.  I'm hopeful I'll be successful. 

Aloha FWS Ecotypes Team!   Help make this year another success by joining and recommending coworkers to join us too.  I like that Ecochallenge aligns with National Wildlife Refuge Week.  I selected waste management for myself this year because it is harder here in Hawaii then Portland. It is requiring me to find drop off locations for items like cardboard, plastic bags and paper. Have Fun!