Top 5 Reasons to Take the Eco Challenge

Last year I participated in (and blogged about) the annual EcoChallenge from the Northwest Earth Institute. You can read about that here. Basically, it’s a two-week event challenging you to make a commitment toward environmental change, however big or small. And it’s fun. The site is set up as a fun, connecting game with teams, points and prizes.

This year’s EcoChallenge runs from October 15-30. I’ve committed to reducing my trash by composting more regularly. Won’t you join me?

Here are some reasons to give it a try.

1. Kickstart a New Habit

   Sometimes all you need is a little motivation to make a green change. The EcoChallenge makes it easy for you with lists of possible actions to take, daily check-ins for accountability and prizes as regular incentives (like a year’s worth of Organic Valley products). Choose whatever personal challenge speaks to you, and commit to it for two weeks—a good length of time to kickstart a new habit.

2. Connect with Others

   You can participate in the EcoChallenge as a team, whether that’s your family, your coworkers or a group of friends. The group dynamic inspires everyone to do better. The site also allows for some friendly competition. Team captains can challenge other teams to see who racks up the most points. You accrue points by meeting your daily goal, recruiting team members and blogging about your challenge. Need inspiration? Watch video of fellow Challengers talking about their own commitments.

3. Learn Something New

   Within five categories (water conservation, energy efficiency, sustainable food options, alternative transportation and trash reduction) the EcoChallenge provides lots of information and resources on a greener lifestyle. What is the 100 Mile Diet? How can I save energy with my home computer? What’s my water usage footprint? (Mine was 1,066 gallons per day, slightly less than the national average but higher than I expected.)

4. Save Money

   Many of the actions listed in the EcoChallenge save money as well as the planet. And who doesn’t love that? Calculate how much you’ll save after making some green changes, and use that surplus toward something fun. We just got rid of our second car, and we’re putting the expenses we save toward a family vacation!

5. Feel Good

   Even though many the actions are small, they add up to big change. Even kids are rewarded with a feeling of accomplishment for adopting a new, earth-friendly habit.

Sign up for the EcoChallenge now! (It’s free.)

This post is featured at Small Footprint Friday, Frugal Days, Sustainable Ways and Tuned-In Tuesday.