Mariah McCreary

In reference to reducing energy consumption, I also wanted to mention my use of air conditioning. From April 8th-April 14th, my home went without AC. While I have used it here and there since then, I try to keep it off as often as possible. Since I do not have much control over the efficiency in an apartment, I do my part by trying to keep it off and enjoy the weather. This has been especially beneficial during social distancing. 

I originally thought this reflection question would pop up daily for the daily challenge. I misunderstood. So here is my actual reflection:

I decided to treat this 21 day challenge as a consecutive thing in an effort to truly change my habits. This has launched me head first into sustainable living. I have learned SO much. When I first chose this challenge in January, I had one idea for daily sustainable action: using my hydroflask to reduce my consumption of single use beverage containers. Since then, I have learned how to implement many more daily (or frequent) actions. I take my own reusable shopping and produce bags to the store. I try to purchase as much as I can from Three Rivers Market in an effort to eat within my foodshed. If I do order food to-go, I make a point to say I don't need utensils or condiments. I have continued to avoid red meat but if I do go back, I will only purchase local. I have always felt like the light police in my home, but this has extended to avoiding overcharging by unplugging things when they are not in use. I run my dishwasher only when it is completely full and I am so happy to have found my sustainable dishwasher pods. I have made a list of all the single use items in my home that I replenish. It is my new goal is try to make sustainable swaps for these items once they have run out. As excited as I am to have eco-conscious options, I am making it a point to REDUCE before moving on to any of the other R's. That is the main thing I learned through this challenge. Too many people focus on recycling and repurposing, but the most important thing about sustainable living is REDUCING! :) 

I never posted the picture of the meal I made, so here it is! While not the prettiest, it was delicious. My boyfriend has since asked me to make these multiple times. As a person who is not typically a cook, I'm quite proud.