Julie Gonsalves

I will spend at least 15 minutes researching the impact of my diet to see how it contributes to deforestation.

I will research and support local farmers who have made the decision to not use synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

I will prevent water runoff and increase absorbency by mulching the base of trees and plants in my yard.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning how local indigenous tribes are caring for the land by participating in a training, workshop, or presentation.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning how to differentiate between sell by, use by, and best by dates.

I will spend at least 30 minutes researching cement alternatives that reduce the carbon footprint of concrete.

I will spend at least 30 minutes researching how to properly dispose of bioplastics in my city and share this information with 1 friends, family, and/or colleagues.

I will learn about sustainable fashion and begin practicing it in my own life.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning how to properly dispose of my refrigerator, freezer, and other refrigerants at the end of their useful lives.

I will spend 30 minutes learning about the climate impact of refrigerants and what climate-friendly refrigerants are by using the links below.

I will spend 30 minutes learning about carbon offsets, and why they are a necessary solution in combating a climate crisis.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of biomass.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of wave and tidal energy.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of geothermal energy and consider investing in this technology.

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

I will enjoy 1 meatless or vegan meals each day of the challenge.

I will spend at least 15 minutes researching other Drawdown Buildings Solutions.

I will spend 30 minutes finding out how to make my home more energy efficient through better insulation and weatherization.

I will use smaller plates and/or serve smaller portions when dishing out food.

I will spend 60 minutes researching cattle feed and manure management, or visiting a dairy farm to learn about their farming practices.

Contamination prevents what is recyclable from being recycled. I will research and recycle all materials that are accepted by local haulers or drop stations in my community, including electronics and metals.

I will avoid buying and using 1 single-use plastics and instead replace them with durable options.

I will practice the "5 Rs" — refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle — to reduce my waste more than I can with just recycling alone.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of micro wind.

I will replace 1 incandescent lightbulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.