Joe Schmeits

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

Racial inequity is both a sustainability and justice problem. I will support businesses owned by people of color in my community whenever I shop.

I will reduce the amount of paper mail that I receive by 3.4lbs (1.5kg) a month or 41lbs (18.6kg) a year by opting into paperless billing, ending unwanted subscriptions and opting out of junk mail.

Historically, marginalized and low-income communities live closer to landfills, contributing to a multitude of health problems. I will find out how I can limit single-use items and do my best to limit the waste I generate. I will keep 3 container(s) out of the landfill each day.

I will watch 1 documentary(ies) about systemic racism.

I will make sure I’m registered to vote. While I’m at it, I’ll sign up to help others register too!

Organizations have a responsibility to make sustainable business decisions. To understand how to improve sustainable practices, it’s important to start with understanding the current impact. I will share the Tradewater Business Carbon Calculator with my organization.

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

I will purchase produce and meat from a local farmers market or food co-op.

I will spend 15 minutes researching toxic chemicals found in cleaning supplies and personal care products and remove them from my home.

I will enjoy 1 meal(s) each day free of processed foods.

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 calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how different lifestyle choices could reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

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

I will use an energy meter to monitor my energy use and identify opportunities to save power.

I will join my neighborhood association or another local group of decision makers.

I will plant 3 tree(s) in my community, public parks, or backyard.

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

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

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 spend 90 minutes learning about food apartheid and find out how I can advocate for healthy and fresh food in my region.

I will spend at least 90 minutes finding out what local laws, policies, and practices keep people from voting in my community.