Lori Lundberg

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

I will avoid buying and using 3 single-use plastics and instead replace them with durable options.

I will replace 12 incandescent lightbulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

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

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

I will plan ahead to use paper products only made from post-consumer recycled paper for my home or office.

I will start a compost or worm bin where I live.

I will replace manual thermostats with smart ones.