Eco-Chic Lifestyle Change Week 2: Weekly Update

The first week of my SMART goal was successful!  I managed to use only my reusable water bottle and refrained from used plastic water bottles.  In order to resist the temptation of purchasing a water bottle from the vending machine I carried my water bottle with me to class in my backpack.  I've noticed when I have my water bottle accessible at all times during the day I tend to drink more water.  This is an added health benefit that I am excited about!

I have begun to notice how frequently students and staff turn to plastic water bottles.  Beginning my lifestyle change has opened my eyes to how easily it is to use a reusable water bottle instead.  However, one challenge during this week was when I forgot my water bottle when going to the gym.  It was frustrating not having a water bottle and continually stopping my workout to drink from the drinking fountain. Stopping at the vending machine on my way to the gym would have prevented this but I didn't want to ruin my successful week.  Drinking from the drinking fountain was a temporary hassle for me but using the plastic water bottle would have contributed to a permanent problem affecting everyone.

It is a great feeling knowing you are making a positive impact on the environment!  I will continue working towards my SMART goal.  I will begin changing my container usage to reusable containers next week as well as continuing to use my reusable water bottle.

Eye Opener: Ecological Footprint

I completed the Ecological Footprint Quiz and my results were very surprising.  According to the results it would take five earths to handle my way of living.   Also, it would take 24 global acres of Earth's productive area to support my lifestyle. These results were shocking and would be a great tool for informing individuals of the impact they really do have on our environment.  With this being said, I wish the questions were more accurate which would lead to more accurate results.  When asked if I consume beef below average, average, or above average I was unaware of what was considered average.  If the results were even more personalized and based off scientific numbers I think the impact of this website and quiz would be even greater.  Although the results were generalized I still learned that I have plenty of behavior changes that I can make to reduce my carbon footprint.  

I would like to reduce my carbon footprint and make less of a negative impact on the environment.  Toxic greenhouse gases are given off from the creation of materials I use on a daily basis.  This is why I created my SMART goal of eliminating plastic water waters and plastic bags from my life.  I will continue working towards my goal which will positively help reduce my carbon footprint.  I also would like to reduce the waste I am currently using.  I will do this by reusing containers and when this isn't possible I will recycle properly.  Finally, I will be more conscientious of my electricity and water usage at home.  Hopefully we can all realize that small behavior changes can make a big difference to keep our earth bright and sunny!