River Chambers

Climate change is occurring because of a phenomenon that is also a very basic chemical reaction. When fossil fuels burn, carbon dioxide is produced. Usually, this reaction balances out as carbon dioxide is then used during photosynthesis. However, the amount of carbon being produced currently, due to our overuse of fossil fuels, is tipping this delicate balance. We'll talk more about the effects later on...in the meantime let's learn about how to reduce the ways WE start chemical reactions that create carbon. Use the link below to measure your carbon footprint.

In Earth Science this year, we're going to be talking a lot about climate change and the carbon cycle. Take a minute to read the article/video linked below and answer the reflection question.

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how different lifestyle choices could reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

I will start a compost bin where I live.

I will watch a video about methane digesters (also commonly known as anaerobic digesters).

Visit the link below and read about a common misconception about climate change and Earth's cycles. Answer the reflection question.

I will research and support local farmers who have made the decision to not use synthetic nitrogen fertilizers.

Sometimes protecting nature requires feeling connected to nature. I will invest 200 minutes in exploring and appreciating a natural area in my region, whether a forest, wetland, coastal area, or somewhere else.

I will take a walk for 20 minutes each day and take note of the infrastructure that makes walking more or less enjoyable, accessible, and possible.

I will spend 20 minutes researching the environmental benefits of peatlands and what is being done around the world to conserve and restore them.

I will Practice the "5 Rs" — refuse, reduce, reuse, repurpose, and recycle — to reduce my waste more than I can with just recycling alone.

Read the blog post linked below. What do you propose we do as a more energy efficient form of transportation? Ride a bike? Bike-car combo? Change the design of a car? Ride a sphero?

I will visit Tradewater’s website to learn more about carbon offsets, and why they are a necessary solution in combating a climate crisis.

I will replace 14 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the environmental services provided by and the environmental issues affecting temperate forests.

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning about green gentrification and how it relates to city planning for climate action.

I will spend at least 20 minutes learning how local indigenous tribes are caring for the land by participating in a training, workshop, or presentation.

I will use smaller plates and/or serve smaller portions when dishing out food.

I will keep a daily log of food I throw away during Drawdown Ecochallenge, either because it went bad before I ate it, I put too much on my plate, or it was scraps from food preparation.

I will cook 2 meal(s) with zero-waste each day

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of biomass.

I will eat all of my meals without distractions, e.g., phone, computer, TV, or newspaper.

Read the article below.

I will tend to a garden, or prepare for one, each day using sustainable gardening practices.

I will enjoy 1 meatless or vegan meal(s) each day of the challenge.

I will spend 10 minute(s) learning about the climate impact of refrigerants and what climate-friendly refrigerants are by using the links provided

I will spend at least 10 minutes learning how to properly dispose of my refrigerator, freezer, and other refrigerants at the end of their useful lives.

I will spend at least 10 minutes researching how to properly dispose of bioplastics in my city and share this information with 2 friends, family and/or colleagues.

I will spend 10 minute(s) learning about biochar and how it can help sequester carbon.