Betsy Desmond

I will save up to 4 gallons (15 L) of water each day by turning it off while brushing my teeth.

I will replace 6 incandescent lightbulb(s) with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

Keep dispenser filled at the park with one-time use bags for collecting pet waste. Gives the bag one more life before discarding.

Keep dispenser filled at the park with one-time use bags for collecting pet waste. Gives the bag one more life before discarding.

I will repair an item, such as clothing or an appliance, for myself, a friend, family member, or neighbor.

I will promote equity and support my community by purchasing items at 5 diverse- and/or locally-owned businesses.

I will volunteer 10 hour(s) in my community during the challenge.

I will purchase produce and/or meat from a local farmers market or food co-op to make 5 locally-sourced meals.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning about water and air quality issues in my area, how they are impacting human and environmental health, and how I can help.

Allina Health's sustainability program is one important way we support the people we serve by minimizing the impact of our physical footprint. Check out our Climate Action Plan on the AKN which will fulfill our pledge to: reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, become more resilient to the impacts of climate change, and engage with staff and our community to promote climate education and encourage action.

I attend monthly All Together Better Champion meetings as well as share important well-being content with my colleagues!

I will use less baggies and plastic wrap when a container can be used instead.

I will refuse 1 of single-use paper or plastic bags each day by bringing my own reusable bags or carrying purchased goods another way.

I will avoid printing 3 pieces of paper by "going digital" and printing double-sided whenever possible.

I will turn my computer monitor(s) off at my work station when not in use to save energy (I will follow my organization's IT instructions for keeping on, turning off, or restarting computers).

I will keep 10 forks, spoons, and/or knives from entering the landfill by using reusable utensils when eating at work.

Lighting makes up approximately 10% of hospitals' energy use on average. I will save energy by turning off unnecessary lights when not in use and when I am the last one to leave a space.

I will prevent water from being wasted by reporting one or more leaky faucets, toilets, or other water leaks to my organization's facilities team for repair.

I will enjoy 1 meatless meal(s) and/or vegan meal(s) each day this week.

Check out the Allina Health Environmental Sustainability AKN page to find case studies and resources.

Check out the Allina Health Environmental Sustainability AKN page to find case studies and resources.

I will take one action to support local wildlife, such as adding a food or water source, creating shelter/habitat, preventing light pollution, eliminating bird strikes, or another action.