Amber Weischedel

I will advocate for alternatives to single-use packaging at local grocery stores, markets, at work, or on campus to reduce pollution in the environment and in local communities.

Plastic bags and small plastic pieces like straws are most likely to get swept into our waterways. I will keep 2 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill and ocean each day by refusing straws or using my own glass/metal straw.

I will keep 5 disposable plastic bottle(s) from entering the waste stream by using a reusable water bottle.

I will avoid sending 2 disposable cup(s) to the landfill each day by using a reusable mug.

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

I will enjoy the sunrise and/or sunset each day.

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

I will engage in nature-based activities alone, or with my friends or family, for 15 minute(s) each day. (This can be anything from going on a walk or hike, to noticing the leaves changing color, to reading a book with nature themes.)

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

I will cook 3 meal(s) with zero-waste each day

I will enjoy 3 meal(s) each day free of processed foods.

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

Both systemic and personal sustainability are important! I will develop a plan with my medical professionals to achieve my best health and live my life to the fullest.

I will spend at least 10 minute(s) touring (virtually or in person) a local dump/transfer station, material recovery facility, and/or landfill to learn about our local waste and waste recovery streams.

I will collect all of my unrecyclable, non-compostable trash to raise my awareness of how much I send to the landfill.

I will start a recycling program at my workplace, dorm, or elsewhere on campus.

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

I will find out where to recycle the recyclable items that I can't put in recycling dumpsters or my curbside bin.

We may find more meaning and joy in life when our actions are aligned with our personal values. I will determine what my top 3-5 core values are so that I can better align my actions with them.