Shelley Pinckney

What can lack of access to nutritious food affect a community? How can having access to nutritious food help a community become more resilient?

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.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning about water and air quality issues in my area, how they are impacting human and environmental health, and how I can help.

I will enjoy 1 meatless meal(s) and/or 1 vegan meal(s) each day this week.

I will spend 30 minutes finding out where landfills and/or toxic waste sites are situated in my region and which communities are most impacted by these sites.

I will reduce food waste and save money by planning a weekly menu, only buying the ingredients I need.

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

I will avoid sending up to .69 lbs (.31 kg) of food waste to the landfill each day by composting my food or learning how to.

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

I will adjust my thermostat down 2 degrees from usual when I use the heat, and up 2 degrees when I use air conditioning.

I will power down my computer and monitor when not using it for more than 2 hours, saving up to (1.1) lbs of CO2 each day that I do this.

I will de-clutter, clean, and donate or recycle unneeded items in my home or dorm room.

At least 30% of crops and 90% of flowering plants rely on pollinators to produce fruit. I will spend 30 minutes researching which plants support local native pollinators and plant some in my yard or local community garden.

I will plant an herb garden in my home, workplace, or dorm room.

I will get my Core Four Biometrics tests (blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and BMI).

I will replace 5 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

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

I will keep lights, electronics, and appliances turned off when not using them.

I will eat a heart healthy diet by adding 2 cup(s) of fruits and vegetables each day to achieve at least 4 cups per day.

I will spend 45 minutes researching toxic chemicals found in cleaning supplies and personal care products and remove them from my home or dorm room.

I will create a rain garden or bioswale or use rain barrels to collect water for outdoor watering needs.

I will complete an online energy audit of my home, office, or dorm room and identify my next steps for saving energy.

I will plant native species, landscape with water-efficient plants, and use eco-friendly fertilizers.

If at all possible, I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.