Melissa Beaver

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

I will meditate or create a moment of silence for 10 minute(s) each day to reflect on things important to me.

An estimated 71% of seabirds and 30% of turtles have been found with plastics in their stomachs. When they ingest plastic, marine life has a 50% mortality rate. By asking for no straw when placing a drink order, I will keep 1 plastic straw(s) of out of the ocean each day.

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

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency by mulching the base of plants and trees at my home or work.

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

I will practice the seven principles of Leave No Trace when doing nature activities alone or with family and friends.

I will take a 30-minute walk outside each day.

Racial inequity is both a sustainability and justice problem. I will support businesses owned by people of color in my community whenever I shop.

I will spend 30 minutes learning more about renewable energy alternatives (i.e. solar, wind, biomass) in my region.

I will switch to washing my clothes in cold water, saving up to 133 lbs of CO2 a month and 1,600 lbs of CO2 over the course of the next year.

I will cut my car trip mileage by only taking necessary trips.

I will write down three things every day that I am grateful for, or send one email every day thanking or praising someone.

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

I will watch 1 documentary(ies) about food sovereignty: the right of local peoples to control their own food systems including markets, ecological resources, food cultures and production methods.

I will learn about sustainable fashion and begin trying to practice it in my own life.