Ecochallenge.org

The People's Ecochallenge 2024

October 1 - October 31, 2024

Anna Marie Angeles

Arch Global Services Inc

"Be an 'eco-minimalist'. "

POINTS TOTAL

0 TODAY
0 THIS WEEK
950 TOTAL

participant impact

UP TO

79

meatless or vegan meals

consumed
UP TO

7.6

pounds

food waste prevented
UP TO

45

zero-waste meals

consumed
UP TO

5.0

lightbulbs

replaced
UP TO

147

pounds of CO2

have been saved
UP TO

1.0

waste audit

conducted
UP TO

472

gallons of water

have been saved
UP TO

71

more servings

of fruits and vegetables
UP TO

102

hours

volunteered
UP TO

1.0

community event

hosted or attended
UP TO

1.0

public official or leader

contacted
UP TO

2.0

advocacy actions

completed
UP TO

60

minutes

spent outdoors
UP TO

2.0

trees

planted
UP TO

1,305

minutes

spent learning

Anna Marie's actions

Simplicity

Research Impact Investing

Using the links provided below, I will research impact investing and determine if it is right for me.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Listen to a Food Podcast

I will spend 30 minutes listening to a podcast about food.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Energy

Switch to Cold Water

I will switch to washing my clothes in cold water, saving up to 1,600 lbs of CO2 over the course of the next year.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Install Alternative Energy

I will install an alternative energy system, such as solar electric systems or solar water heaters.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Learn About Energy Issues on the Ballot

I will spend 45 minutes learning about local or national energy issues that will be on the voting ballot this fall.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Health

Eliminate Toxic Plastics

I will avoid buying toxic plastics - including polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl - and instead replace them with durable non-plastic options.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Community

Sign Up to Vote

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Community

Volunteer in My Community

I will volunteer 60 hours in my community during the challenge.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Waste

Learn About & Practice Sustainable Fashion

I will spend 60 minutes learning about sustainable fashion and begin trying to practice it in my own life.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Zero-Waste Cooking

Food waste hurts our planet and our communities. I will cook 1 meals with zero waste each day.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Health

More Fruits and Veggies

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

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Nature

Plant Trees

I will plant 2 trees in my community, public parks, or backyard.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Explore My Area

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Join An Outdoor Project

I will join an outdoor restoration project in my community.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Waste

Personal Waste Audit

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Reduce Animal Products

I will enjoy 1 meatless meals and/or 1 vegan meals each day this week.

COMPLETED 31
DAILY ACTIONS

Waste

Advocate For More Food Packaging Options

I will advocate for alternatives to single-use packaging at local grocery stores, markets, at work, or on campus to reduce pollution in the environment and in local communities.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Choose LED Bulbs

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Fix Leaky Faucets

I will fix faucets or report leaky faucets to facilities that have been wasting up to 3 gallons (11 L) of water per faucet every day.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Insulate Water Pipes and Water Heater

I will avoid wasting water while waiting for the shower or sink to heat up.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Use an Energy Meter

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Transportation

Advocate for Greener Vehicles

I will spend at least 30 minutes assessing the vehicles used by my company or college and advocate for a purchasing policy focused on fuel-efficient vehicles.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Support Local Pollinators

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.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Water

Mulch the Base of Trees and Plants

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Health

Know My Health

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

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Participant Feed

Anna Marie Angeles 10/31/2024 12:38 PM
We’ve reached the final day of our Eco Challenge! 🎉 Our dedication and efforts over the past days have been truly inspiring. As we wrap up, let’s give it our all and make this last day count.

Remember, every small action contributes to a larger impact. Whether it’s reducing waste, conserving energy, or spreading awareness, let’s continue to make a positive difference for our planet.

Together, we’ve shown that we can make a meaningful change.
Here’s to a fantastic final day and to many more eco-friendly actions in the future! 🌍

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water

How do you think climate change will affect your region’s water supply? Think about the effects of weather, storms, salinity, and sea level rise, among other changes. How can you find out more about climate change’s impact to your region's water?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/31/2024 12:35 PM
Climate change is expected to significantly impact Quezon City’s water supply in several ways:

Weather and Storms: Increased frequency and intensity of typhoons and heavy rainfall can lead to flooding and damage to water infrastructure, disrupting water supply and quality.

Salinity: Rising sea levels can cause saltwater intrusion into freshwater sources, particularly affecting coastal areas and groundwater supplies.

Sea Level Rise: Higher sea levels can exacerbate flooding and lead to the contamination of freshwater resources with seawater, impacting both the availability and quality of drinking water.

Temperature Changes: Warmer temperatures can increase evaporation rates, reducing the amount of available surface water and stressing water resources.

To find out more about the impact of climate change here in Quezon City’s water supply, we can:

Consult Local Water Authorities: Organizations like Manila Water provide reports and updates on how they are addressing climate-related risks and ensuring water security.

Review Government Publications: The Philippine government and local agencies often publish studies and plans related to climate change adaptation and water resource management.

Engage with Environmental Groups: Local and international environmental organizations frequently conduct research and advocacy on climate change impacts and can be valuable sources of information.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water

Where are your nearest natural bodies of water? How might they be affected by runoff?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/31/2024 12:31 PM
In Quezon City, the nearest natural bodies of water include the La Mesa Dam and Reservoir and the Marikina River. These water bodies are essential for the local water supply and ecosystem.

Runoff can affect these water bodies in several ways:

Pollution: Runoff can carry pollutants like oil, heavy metals, and chemicals from urban areas into the water, degrading its quality.

Sedimentation: Construction activities can increase sediment in runoff, which can accumulate in water bodies, affecting aquatic habitats and water flow.

Nutrient Loading: Fertilizers and pesticides from agricultural runoff can lead to nutrient loading, causing algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water and harm aquatic life.

Trash and Debris: Urban runoff often includes litter and debris, which can clog waterways and harm wildlife.

Addressing these issues involves better waste management practices, green infrastructure to manage stormwater, and community awareness about the impacts of runoff.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Waste

What concerns you the most about how we are affecting the planet? Consider both local and global actions.
Anna Marie Angeles 10/31/2024 12:27 PM
The most concerning impacts of our actions on the planet include local issues like air and water pollution, deforestation, and waste management, as well as global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and ocean pollution, all of which contribute to resource depletion and social inequality.

Addressing these issues requires both local and global actions, such as adopting sustainable practices, reducing emissions, protecting natural habitats, and promoting environmental awareness and education.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Simplicity

How might impact investing help you better live your values?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/31/2024 7:35 AM
Impact investing can be a powerful way to align our financial decisions with our personal values and contribute to positive social and environmental change. Here are a few ways it can help us live our values:

Supporting Causes We Care About: By investing in companies or projects that focus on issues like renewable energy, affordable housing, or education, we can directly support the causes that matter most.

Promoting Sustainable Practices: Impact investing often targets businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. This means our investments can help promote environmentally friendly technologies and fair labor practices.

Encouraging Corporate Responsibility: When we invest in companies that are committed to social and environmental responsibility, we send a message that these values are important. This can encourage more companies to adopt similar practices.

Building a Better Future: Impact investing aims to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside a financial return. This dual focus can help create a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations.

Personal Fulfillment: Knowing that our investments are making a difference can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose, aligning our financial goals with our personal values.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Transportation

Reducing (or eliminating) exhaust emissions and improving public health are two benefits of green vehicles. What other motivators inspire you to consider switching to a more fuel-efficient vehicle?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/30/2024 6:21 AM
Switching to a more fuel-efficient or green vehicle can be motivated by several factors beyond reducing emissions and improving public health. Here are a few additional reasons:

Cost Savings: Fuel-efficient vehicles often have lower fuel costs, and electric vehicles (EVs) can save even more on fuel and maintenance.

Government Incentives: Many governments offer tax credits, rebates, and other incentives for purchasing green vehicles.

Energy Independence: Using less fossil fuel reduces dependence on imported oil, contributing to national energy security.

Technological Innovation: Green vehicles often come with the latest technology and features, enhancing the driving experience.

Resale Value: As demand for green vehicles increases, their resale value tends to be higher.

Corporate Responsibility: For businesses, using green vehicles can enhance their reputation and demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.

Personal Values: Aligning your transportation choices with your environmental values can provide a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Waste

How can you express your personality, creativity, and values in ways that don't require fast fashion or buying more clothes and accessories?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/30/2024 6:20 AM
Expressing our personality, creativity, and values without relying on fast fashion or buying more clothes can be both fun and sustainable! Here are some ideas:

Upcycle and Customize: Transform old clothes into something new. Add patches, embroidery, or paint to give them a unique touch.

Swap and Share: Organize clothing swaps with friends or family. It’s a great way to refresh your wardrobe without buying new items.

Thrift Shopping: Explore second-hand stores for unique and affordable pieces. It’s a treasure hunt that can yield some amazing finds.

Capsule Wardrobe: Create a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Focus on quality over quantity.

DIY Accessories: Make your own jewelry, scarves, or bags. This allows you to showcase your creativity and personal style.

Support Ethical Brands: When you do buy new items, choose brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.

Express Through Other Mediums: Use art, music, writing, or other creative outlets to express your personality and values.
Read More
- Janet Beach Davis 10/30/2024 7:53 AM
  Using what you already have to make a new look is all about creativity and really making your style your own. It's like the difference between a from scratch meal or takeout. Both will nourish you, but one shows who you are.
  
  Read More
Anna Marie Angeles 10/30/2024 6:18 AM
Having something to work towards can give you a sense of direction and fulfillment.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Waste

Why is it often difficult to understand the impacts our purchases and waste have on other people, animals, and places?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/30/2024 6:15 AM
Understanding the impacts of our purchases and waste can be challenging for several reasons:

Complex Supply Chains: Products often go through many stages and locations before reaching us. This complexity makes it hard to trace the full environmental and social impact.

Lack of Transparency: Companies may not always disclose the full details of their production processes, making it difficult for consumers to know the true cost of their purchases.

Distance and Disconnection: The effects of our consumption are often felt far away from where we live, making it harder to see the direct consequences on people, animals, and ecosystems.

Information Overload: With so much information available, it can be overwhelming to sift through and understand what is relevant and accurate.

Marketing and Perception: Advertising can sometimes obscure the negative impacts of products, focusing instead on positive aspects or benefits.

Despite these challenges, there are ways to become more informed and make more sustainable choices. For example, looking for certifications or organic labels can help ensure products are made with higher ethical and environmental standards.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Water

Fixing leaky faucets is one of the tasks that we can easily put off until later. Good job on completing this action! How will you use the momentum from completing this action to increase your water efficiency in other ways?
Anna Marie Angeles 10/30/2024 6:13 AM
Here are a few more actions we can take to build on this momentum:

Install Low-Flow Fixtures: Consider replacing old showerheads and faucets with low-flow versions to reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.

Check for Other Leaks: Inspect other areas in your home, such as toilets and outdoor hoses, for leaks. Even small drips can add up over time.

Upgrade Appliances: If possible, invest in water-efficient appliances like dishwashers and washing machines. Look for the WaterSense label or similar certifications.

Use Water Wisely Outdoors: Water your garden early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize evaporation. Also, consider using a rain barrel to collect rainwater for irrigation.

Be Mindful of Daily Habits: Simple changes like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or taking shorter showers can make a big difference.
Read More