nan-cheng lin

I will start a compost bin where I live.

When they are available, I will purchase products made from bamboo instead of wood, plastic, or metal.

I will keep a daily log of food I throw away during the EcoChallenge, either because it went bad before I ate it, I put too much on my plate, or it was scraps from food preparation.

I will spend at least 20 minutes learning how to differentiate between sell by, use by, and best by dates.

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

I will avoid buying toxic plastics, including polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl and instead replace them with bioplastic or durable options.

I will spend at least 10 minutes researching how to properly dispose of bioplastics in my city and share this information with 3 friends, family and/or colleagues.

I will reduce the amount of water flushed and save up to 11 gallons (41 L) of water per day by installing a toilet tank bank.

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

I will set up a recycling center at my workplace or school.

I will save up to 15 gallons (56 L) of water a day by installing a low-flow showerhead.

I will spend at least 50 minutes researching and weighing my options to see if a hybrid or electric vehicle makes sense for my lifestyle.

I will cut my car trip mileage by only taking necessary trips, and I will only use muscle-powered transportation for all other trips.

I will commute by carpool 10 mile(s) per day and avoid sending up to 5.65 lbs of CO2 into Earth's atmosphere.

I will assess the vehicles used by my company or college and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on electric and fuel-efficient vehicles.

I will use public transit 10 mile(s) per day and avoid sending up to 3.25 lbs of CO2 into Earth's atmosphere.

I will cook 1 meal(s) with zero-waste each day.

I will buy from organic and local farmers who have made the decision to not use synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

I will replace manual thermostats with smart ones.

I will enjoy 1 meatless or vegan meal(s) each day of the challenge.

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

I will find out how to make my home more energy efficient through better insulation and weatherization.