Emily Sermersheim

Your voice matters! Help us improve the One Healthcare Ecochallenge by taking our survey, available starting April 23rd.

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 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 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.

I will recycle 2 items at work and/or at home each day, making sure I review recycling program guidelines and only place accepted items that are clean, empty, and dry in the recycling bin.

I will keep 3 forks, spoons, and/or knives from entering the landfill by using reusable utensils when eating at work.

I will work from home 2 day(s) to avoid my commute's carbon output.

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

I will keep 3 disposable cup(s) and/or bottle(s) from entering the waste stream by using a reusable water bottle, cup, or mug.

I will avoid sending food waste to the landfill by composting my food scraps.

I will promote equity and support my community by purchasing items at 3 diverse- and/or locally-owned businesses.

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 pledge to take one action that improves the sustainability of my organization in 2025. It can be an action from this challenge or another action that improves resource stewardship.

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

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

I will avoid printing 1 pieces of paper by "going digital" and printing double-sided whenever possible.