Materials

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.

Reduce unnecessary purchases

I will reduce unnecessary purchases by only buying what I truly need.
LEARN MORE

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
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

DAILY ACTION
Recycle

I will avoid using disposable plates, cups, or utensils. Instead, I will use long-lasting and reusable materials.
LEARN MORE

ACTION RESOURCES:

Drawdown Solution #55: Household Recycling

Recycling: You may be doing it wrong
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

DAILY ACTION
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.
LEARN MORE

ACTION RESOURCES:

The Story of Stuff Project

Even a reusable water bottle can save a ton
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

DAILY ACTION
Go paperless

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

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

DAILY ACTION
Opt out of paper junk mail lists

I will opt out of junk mail lists to reduce wasted material and energy.
LEARN MORE

ACTION RESOURCES:

Catalog Choice is a free service to help unclog your mailbox

NY Times article provides resources to eliminate unwanted mail
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 ACTION
Share resources with neighbors

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

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 ACTION
CREATE A CUSTOM ACTION

Ideally, you’ll choose at least one measurable goal so that you can measure your success but there are no limits on what you can choose—so exercise your creativity!

BACK TO ALL ACTION CATEGORIES