Columbia Trust

Plastic bags and small plastic pieces like straws are most likely to get swept into our waterways. I will keep 1 plastic straw(s) out of the landfill and ocean each day by refusing straws or using my own glass/metal straw.

I will not accept any disposable bags when making purchases.

I will keep lights, electronics, and appliances turned off when not using them.

I will power down my computer and monitor when not using it for more than 2 hours, saving up to (1.1) lbs of CO2 each day that I do this.

If buying a plane ticket, I will also buy a carbon offset.

I will visit seafoodwatch.org or download the app and commit to making better seafood choices for a healthier ocean.

I will adjust my thermostat down 2 degrees from usual when I use the heat, and up 2 degrees when I use air conditioning.

An estimated 71% of seabirds and 30% of turtles have been found with plastics in their stomachs. When they ingest plastic, marine life has a 50% mortality rate. By asking for no straw when placing a drink order, I will keep 1 plastic straw(s) of out of the ocean each day.

I will avoid sending 1 disposable cup(s) to the landfill each day by using a reusable mug.

I will save up to 20 gallons (75 L) of water each day by taking 5-minute showers.

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

I will keep 1 disposable plastic bottle(s) from entering the waste stream by using a reusable water bottle.

I will plant an herb garden in my home, workplace, or dorm room.