Ecochallenge.org

Drawdown Ecochallenge

Guan Yan Lye

Team AMD

"A passionate engineer interested in contributing back to the society."

POINTS TOTAL

0 TODAY
75 THIS WEEK
527 TOTAL

participant impact

UP TO

27

locally sourced meals

consumed
UP TO

1.0

sustainable seafood meal

consumed
UP TO

23

zero-waste meals

consumed
UP TO

1.0

carbon footprint

calculated
UP TO

1.0

lightbulb

replaced
UP TO

1.0

donation

made
UP TO

1.0

advocacy action

completed
UP TO

21

conversations

with people
UP TO

390

minutes

spent learning

Guan Yan's actions

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Attend "Menu for the Future" discussion

Join fellow AMDers for an informal discussion around how our food choices impact the environment and the overall food supply chain while also considering the emotional and cultural connections that make changing negative behaviors difficult.

COMPLETED 21
DAILY ACTIONS

Electricity

Support Microgeneration in Low Income Countries

Small Hydropower, Micro Wind Turbines, Microgrids

I will make a donation to a nonprofit that installs microgeneration in low income countries.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Spread the Word about Energy Alternatives

All Electricity Solutions

I will research and tell 1 people each day about the benefits of alternative energy sources like wind turbines, solar energy, geothermal energy, and methane digesters.

COMPLETED 21
DAILY ACTIONS

Electricity

Learn More about Micro Wind

Micro Wind Turbines

I will spend at least 120 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of micro wind.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Solar Water Consultation

Solar Hot Water

I will contact a local installer/distributor to see if a solar water heater makes sense for my house.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Advocate for Solar Installation

Distributed Solar Photovoltaics

I will create a plan to and advocate for solar installation at my business, apartment building, or campus.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Support Companies Leading in Green Energy

Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaics, Distributed Solar Photovoltaics

I will use my spending power to reward companies leading in creating or purchasing green energy and incentivize others to invest more in green energy.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Communicate With My Elected Officials

Onshore Wind Turbines, Offshore Wind Turbines

I will write or call 1 elected officials telling them not to support fossil fuel subsidies and instead support wind energy generation.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Choose Renewable Energy or Purchase Renewable Energy Credits

Onshore Wind Turbines, Utility-Scale Solar Photovoltaics

I will sign up for my utility company's clean/renewable energy option. If my utility does not offer one, I will purchase Renewable Energy Credits to match my usage.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Calculate My Household Carbon Footprint

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.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Contact Fossil Fuel Companies

Methane Leak Management

I will contact the fossil fuel companies that supply energy in my community and ask how they manage and reduce methane leakage.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Share Your Story

Share Your Aha Moment

Fill out this form and share your Ecochallenge story with us!

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Learn More about Wave and Tidal Energy

Ocean Power

I will spend at least 120 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of wave and tidal energy.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Learn More About Geothermal Energy

Geothermal Power

I will spend at least 120 minutes learning more about the energy generation potential of geothermal energy and consider investing in this technology.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Transportation

Watch Q&A with Ride the Divide Returns creator Mike Dion

Streaming links for an epic bike-packing documentary "Ride The Divide Returns" and an interview with the producer/participant will be available. Be inspired by the environment and human spirit as participants traverse a 2700 mile journey across the Rocky Mountains from Banff to the Mexico Border.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Transportation

Watch Q&A with Ride the Divide Returns creator Mike Dion

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Learn about the energy efficiency of AMD's products

Join Justin Murrill, Go Green Executive Sponsor and Director of Corporate Responsibility, and Sam Naffziger SVP, and Corporate Fellow to learn about our approach to increasing the computing performance delivered per watt of energy consumed. And, learn how we are progressing to our goal to increase by 30x energy efficiency for AMD processors and accelerates powering servers for AI-training and high-performance computing by 2025.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Rooftop Solar Consultation

Distributed Solar Photovoltaics

After researching the incentives at the federal, state, utility, and local levels, I will contact a local installer/distributor for a solar panel installation consultation on my house.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Electricity

Choose LED Bulbs

LED Lighting

I will replace 5 incandescent lightbulbs with Energy Star-certified LED bulbs, saving up to $14 per fixture per year.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Composting

Composting, Reduced Food Waste

I will start a compost or worm bin where I live.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Smaller Portions

Reduced Food Waste

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

COMPLETED 21
DAILY ACTIONS

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Zero-Waste Cooking

Reduced Food Waste

I will cook 1 meals with zero-waste each day.

COMPLETED 21
DAILY ACTIONS

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Learn the Truth About Expiration Dates

Reduced Food Waste

I will spend at least 15 minutes learning how to differentiate between sell by, use by, and best by dates.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Support Local Food Systems

Plant-Rich Diets

I will source 10 percent of my food from local producers each day. This could include signing up for a local CSA, buying from a farmer's market, visiting a food co-op, foraging with a local group, or growing my own ingredients.

COMPLETED 21
DAILY ACTIONS

Food, Agriculture, and Land Use

Cook With Sustainable Seafood

Improved Fisheries

Using the Seafood Watch guide, I will feature a sustainable seafood ingredient in a new recipe.

COMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Participant Feed

Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

REFLECTION QUESTION
Electricity Learn More about Wave and Tidal Energy

What did you learn about wave and tidal energy? How do they compare to other energy sources?
Guan Yan Lye 10/20/2024 10:37 AM
I’ve learned that wave and tidal energy harness the power of ocean movements to generate electricity.
Key Points:

Wave Energy: This is generated by the surface movement of waves. It’s highly variable, depending on weather conditions and ocean patterns.

Tidal Energy: This relies on the gravitational pull of the moon and sun, creating predictable tidal cycles, which makes it more reliable than wave energy.

Comparison to Other Energy Sources:

Renewability: Both wave and tidal energy are renewable and produce minimal emissions, similar to solar and wind energy.

Reliability: Tidal energy is more predictable than solar and wind, which can be intermittent. However, wave energy can be less consistent due to changing weather conditions.

Environmental Impact: They have a smaller footprint compared to fossil fuels but can impact marine ecosystems, which requires careful site selection and technology design.

Technological Development: Wave and tidal energy technologies are still emerging, whereas solar and wind technologies are more mature and widely deployed.

Overall, while wave and tidal energy hold great promise, they face challenges related to technology, cost, and environmental concerns that differ from other renewable sources.
Read More
Guan Yan Lye 10/20/2024 10:29 AM

My Drawdown Ecochallenge is going well! I’ve been focusing on reducing energy use and advocating for renewable energy, and I'm seeing positive changes in my habits. It's rewarding to know I'm making a difference!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Electricity Learn More About Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is reliable, abundant, and efficient. Project Drawdown states that public investment will play a crucial role in its expansion. In what ways (i.e. with money, time, advocacy) can you invest in geothermal energy?

Guan Yan Lye 10/20/2024 10:24 AM

When I think about investing in geothermal energy, I see it as an opportunity to contribute to a sustainable future while supporting a reliable and efficient energy source. Here’s how I get involved:
Financial Investment

I’ve decided to invest directly in geothermal energy companies. I research both publicly traded and private firms that focus on exploring and harnessing geothermal resources. I also keep an eye out for green bonds specifically designed for renewable energy projects, including geothermal. Occasionally, I participate in crowdfunding campaigns for geothermal initiatives that resonate with me.

Time and Expertise

I believe that my time is just as valuable as my money. I actively look for opportunities to engage in research and development efforts that aim to improve geothermal technologies. Whether it’s attending workshops or collaborating on studies, I enjoy contributing my skills and knowledge where I can. Volunteering with organizations that advocate for geothermal energy is also something I find fulfilling.

Advocacy and Awareness

I’m passionate about raising awareness, so I often organize community events to educate others about the benefits of geothermal energy. I also make it a point to advocate for policies that support geothermal development—writing to my local representatives and attending town hall meetings helps me engage with the political process. By connecting with local governments, I push for initiatives that promote geothermal resources for heating and electricity.

Partnerships and Collaborations

I seek out collaborations with universities and research institutions that are focused on geothermal energy. I believe that working together can amplify our impact. I also try to join industry alliances and coalitions dedicated to promoting geothermal energy; collective efforts can lead to significant advancements.

Support for Sustainable Practices

On a personal level, I choose green energy options when available. If my utility provider offers geothermal energy, I opt for that to support its demand. Additionally, I’m considering installing a geothermal heating and cooling system in my home. It not only reduces my energy costs but also sets an example for my community about the benefits of renewable energy.

By engaging in these various ways, I feel like I’m actively participating in the growth of the geothermal energy sector and helping to create a more sustainable future.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Share Your Story Share Your Aha Moment

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdQKnH7V660-tDnXQQko2liN5VVgj45KQx-VxuDP5PVyKHG7w/viewform

Guan Yan Lye 10/10/2024 8:21 AM

My aha moment came when I realized how interconnected our individual actions are with broader environmental impacts. While researching sustainable energy options, I discovered just how much small changes—like switching to LED bulbs or supporting local food systems—can collectively reduce carbon footprints and foster community resilience.

Now, I consciously prioritize sustainability in my daily life. I use smaller plates to reduce food waste, choose sustainable seafood, and actively seek out local produce. I've also started advocating for solar energy in my community and supporting companies that lead in green energy. This experience has inspired me to not only change my habits but also encourage others to join in the effort for a healthier planet. Sharing my journey has become a passion, and I feel empowered to make a difference!

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Electricity Spread the Word about Energy Alternatives

What inspiration and wisdom can you gather from your family, faith, or community traditions that would help you in both communicating about and addressing our most pressing energy issues?
Guan Yan Lye 10/10/2024 8:14 AM
Drawing inspiration from family, faith, and community traditions can provide a rich framework for addressing energy issues. Here are a few key insights:

Interconnectedness: Many traditions emphasize the idea that we are all connected. This perspective can help us communicate the importance of collaborative solutions to energy challenges, highlighting that our actions affect not just ourselves, but also our communities and the planet.

Stewardship: Many faiths and cultures advocate for stewardship of the earth. This principle can guide discussions around sustainable energy practices, encouraging a sense of responsibility to protect and preserve resources for future generations.

Tradition of Innovation: Families often pass down stories of resilience and innovation. Emphasizing this can inspire creative problem-solving in energy production and consumption, encouraging a mindset that embraces new technologies and practices.

Collective Action: Community traditions often revolve around collective effort. Mobilizing communities around energy issues, whether through local initiatives or grassroots movements, can amplify voices and drive impactful change.

Value of Simplicity: Many traditions teach the value of simplicity and moderation. Applying this wisdom can lead to more sustainable energy consumption practices and encourage conversations about reducing waste and energy use.

Empathy and Understanding: Family and community values often include empathy and understanding. Approaching energy discussions with compassion can help bridge divides between differing opinions and promote constructive dialogue.

By integrating these insights, we can foster more meaningful conversations about energy issues and work towards solutions that resonate with diverse audiences.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Electricity Rooftop Solar Consultation

Identify some ways in which modern human societies have become unsustainable. What kind of roles do individuals have in creating and changing practices in society?
Guan Yan Lye 10/04/2024 5:37 AM
Modern human societies have become unsustainable in several ways:

Overconsumption: Many societies prioritize consumerism, leading to excessive waste and depletion of natural resources. The "throwaway culture" results in mountains of plastic waste and contributes to environmental degradation.

Industrial Agriculture: The reliance on large-scale industrial farming often results in soil degradation, loss of biodiversity, and increased use of chemicals and pesticides, which can harm ecosystems and human health.

Fossil Fuel Dependence: Continued reliance on fossil fuels for energy and transportation contributes to air pollution and climate change. This dependence inhibits the transition to renewable energy sources.

Urbanization: Rapid urban growth often leads to habitat destruction, increased traffic, and poor air quality, impacting both human health and local ecosystems.

Water Mismanagement: Over-extraction of freshwater resources and pollution of water bodies lead to scarcity and compromise the health of aquatic ecosystems.

Individual Roles in Creating Change

Individuals can play a crucial role in changing unsustainable practices in several ways:

Mindful Consumption: By choosing to buy locally, seasonally, and sustainably, individuals can reduce their environmental impact and support ethical practices.

Reducing Waste: Embracing practices like composting, recycling, and minimizing single-use plastics can significantly decrease personal waste and promote a culture of sustainability.

Advocacy and Education: Individuals can advocate for sustainable policies and practices in their communities, educating others about the importance of sustainability and influencing broader societal change.

Supporting Renewable Energy: By choosing renewable energy options, such as solar or wind power, individuals can reduce their carbon footprint and encourage the transition away from fossil fuels.

Participating in Local Initiatives: Engaging in community gardens, clean-up events, or local environmental groups can foster a sense of community while promoting sustainable practices.

Changing Habits: Adopting more sustainable habits, such as using public transport, reducing meat consumption, or opting for eco-friendly products, can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to follow suit.

By taking these actions, individuals can contribute to a more sustainable future and encourage societal shifts toward more responsible and eco-friendly practices.
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use Support Local Food Systems

Dependable fresh food, supporting local farmers and building resilient communities are just a few benefits of local food systems. Which of these (or other) advantages inspire you the most?

Guan Yan Lye 10/04/2024 5:35 AM

The advantage that inspires me the most is supporting local farmers. Knowing that my choices can directly impact the livelihoods of those in my community feels incredibly rewarding. When I buy from local farmers, I not only get fresh, seasonal produce, but I also contribute to the local economy and help maintain agricultural diversity.

This connection to local agriculture fosters a sense of community and encourages sustainable practices that benefit the environment. Additionally, I appreciate the opportunity to learn about where my food comes from and the methods used to grow it. This inspires me to make more conscious decisions about my food choices and promotes a healthier lifestyle for both myself and my community.

Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use Zero-Waste Cooking

In North America, up to 65% of food waste happens at the consumer level. Chef Steven Satterfield advocates for utilizing every part of a vegetable. How can you incorporate using an entire vegetable, including the skins, tops, and stalks during your next meal prep?
Guan Yan Lye 10/04/2024 5:34 AM
Incorporating the entire vegetable, including skins, tops, and stalks, is a great way for me to reduce food waste and enhance my meals. Here are some ways I plan to do this during my next meal prep:

Veggie Broth: I’ll save my vegetable scraps, like tops, peels, and stalks, to make a flavorful broth. I’ll just simmer them with water, herbs, and spices for about an hour, then strain it for a delicious base for soups.

Roasted Vegetable Skins: Instead of tossing potato or carrot skins, I’m going to toss them with olive oil, salt, and spices, then roast them until crispy. They make a tasty snack!

Salads: I’ll use beet greens or carrot tops in my salads. They add a fresh, peppery flavor and are packed with nutrients.

Smoothies: I love blending vegetable tops, like spinach stems or beet greens, into my smoothies for an extra boost of nutrition without any waste.

Pesto: I’m excited to create a pesto using carrot tops or radish greens. I’ll blend them with nuts, garlic, olive oil, and cheese for a delicious sauce to use on pasta or sandwiches.

Stir-Fries: I plan to include stalks of broccoli or cauliflower in my stir-fries. I’ll chop them finely and cook them alongside the florets for added crunch and flavor.

Pickling: I might even try pickling vegetable tops or stems, like radish greens or onion tops, for a tangy addition to my sandwiches and salads.

By using every part of the vegetable, I can enhance my meals and minimize waste, all while embracing sustainable cooking practices!
Read More
REFLECTION QUESTION
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use Smaller Portions

While dishing food out, we tend to load our plates with more than we need. Using smaller plates helps to mitigate this. Aside from the environmental benefits, what other benefits might come from eating/serving smaller portions?
Guan Yan Lye 10/04/2024 5:32 AM
Eating and serving smaller portions can offer several benefits beyond environmental impact:

Improved Digestion: Smaller portions can make meals easier to digest, reducing the likelihood of discomfort or bloating that can occur with larger meals.

Mindful Eating: Smaller portions encourage more mindful eating, allowing you to savor each bite and better appreciate the flavors and textures of your food. This can enhance your overall dining experience.

Weight Management: Serving smaller portions can help control calorie intake, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight or support weight loss efforts without feeling deprived.

Reduced Food Waste: Smaller portions can lead to less leftover food, which means less waste and better resource management in your kitchen.

Enhanced Satiety Signals: Eating smaller portions allows your body to better recognize its hunger and fullness cues, leading to a more balanced relationship with food.

Variety in Meals: Smaller portions enable you to try a wider variety of foods and flavors in one meal, promoting a more diverse and balanced diet.

By adopting smaller portion sizes, we can enjoy these benefits while also contributing to a healthier lifestyle and a more sustainable approach to eating.
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REFLECTION QUESTION
Food, Agriculture, and Land Use Cook With Sustainable Seafood

What did you cook and how did it turn out? Can you share a recipe on the feed for others to try?
Guan Yan Lye 10/04/2024 5:31 AM
I recently cooked a delicious pan-seared sustainable salmon with a side of quinoa and steamed broccoli. It turned out beautifully, with the salmon perfectly flaky and flavorful! Here’s a simple recipe to share:
Pan-Seared Sustainable Salmon

Ingredients:

2 fillets of sustainable salmon

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1 lemon, sliced

Fresh herbs (like dill or parsley) for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Salmon: Pat the salmon fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.

Heat the Pan: In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Cook the Salmon: Place the salmon fillets skin-side down in the skillet. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the skin is crispy. Flip the fillets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, or until the salmon is cooked through (it should flake easily with a fork).

Add Lemon: During the last minute of cooking, add the lemon slices to the pan to infuse flavor.

Serve: Plate the salmon and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with cooked quinoa and steamed broccoli for a complete meal.

Enjoy!

This dish is not only easy to make but also supports sustainable fishing practices. It’s a great way to enjoy seafood while being mindful of our oceans! Let me know if you try it!

4o mini
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