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Every product we purchase was produced using some amount of energy. This "embedded energy" is often invisible and ignored, but in our disposable, convenience-first consumer culture it adds up to represent a significant source of energy consumption and associated pollution. Being aware of this "embedded energy", along with practicing more thoughtful consumption in general, can create far-reaching, positive impacts.

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Reduce unnecessary purchases

I will reduce unnecessary purchases by only buying what I truly need.
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Action Resources:

New Dream shows you how to tackle excess consumerism

The Story of Stuff Project

Even a reusable water bottle can save a ton
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Daily Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.
Recycle

I will avoid using disposable plates, cups, or utensils. Instead, I will use long-lasting and reusable materials.
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Action Resources:

Drawdown Solution #55: Household Recycling

Recycling: You may be doing it wrong
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Daily Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.
Use long lasting products, repurpose or donate what you can

I will reuse materials instead of buying new ones and donate materials that I no longer use.
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Action Resources:

The Story of Stuff Project

Even a reusable water bottle can save a ton
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Daily Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.
Go paperless

I will avoid unnecessary printing and "go digital" whenever possible.

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Daily Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.
Opt out of paper junk mail lists

I will opt out of junk mail lists to reduce wasted material and energy.
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Action Resources:

Catalog Choice is a free service to help unclog your mailbox

NY Times article provides resources to eliminate unwanted mail
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One-Time Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.
Share resources with neighbors

I will set up a sharing initiative in my community to enable effective sharing of stuff, time, skills, and space.
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Action Resources:

Example: Tool-Lending Libraries-Benefits & How to Start Your Own
You have already completed this action during the Challenge. Removing the action could cause you to lose points. Are you sure you want to do this?
Join to Select

One-Time Challenge

Challenge Level:

Beginner

Our challenge levels are determined by four factors involved in completing the action - time, cost, knowledge, and skills. While these factors may vary by participant, the challenge level can help you choose which actions fit best with your lifestyle and goals.

Back to All Challenges