Madelyn Ellinger
10/31/2025 11:31 PM
Yes definetly. Since starting the challenge I've been working to do so more, although most of the trips I get to carpool with other people for are often pretty short.
The Wave Makers Feed
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REFLECTION QUESTIONTransportationList some of the places you frequent often (work, grocery store, natural areas). Could you choose one or two days a week to schedule driving with a friend, neighbor or co-worker to these places?
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Madi McBride 10/31/2025 8:43 PMThe eco challenge has been a really positive experience for me. It's pushed me to take a closer look at my daily habits and think about how I can improve - not just for the environment, but for my own well-being too.One of the best parts has been connecting with other people who share my values. I've met folks who are equally passionate about making Santa Cruz more walkable and bike-friendly. These connections have been energizing - it's one thing to care about better infrastructure on your own, but being part of a community working toward the same goal makes it feel more achievable. One thing I've learned is how to weave eco-friendly actions into things I'm already doing. For example, I started bringing a bag and gloves on my daily walks to pick up trash along the way. It doesn't add much time or effort since I'm already out there, but it makes a visible difference in my neighborhood. Finding ways to layer these habits onto my existing routine has made them feel sustainable rather than like extra work. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONTransportationHow does using human-powered transportation make you feel compared to using other methods of transportation?
Madi McBride 10/31/2025 8:21 PMI really enjoy biking; it makes me feel great. I love exploring little side streets and neighborhoods that I'd never see if I were driving.The other thing I've noticed is that biking helps me decompress. Having that time on the bike before and after going somewhere gives me space to clear my head, and I think it's really helped me. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONHealth and EducationWhat was an inspiring thing you learned in Drawdown's Climate Solutions 101 Series?
Alina Luong 10/31/2025 8:18 PMI learned a lot more on the concept of carbon sinks. I used to think that plants were the only thing that absorbs carbon dioxide, but it actually includes ocean, wetlands and soil too -
REFLECTION QUESTIONTransportationWhat do you like most about biking in your city? What would you like to improve?
Madi McBride 10/31/2025 8:15 PMThere is a lack of bike safety infrastructure. I enjoy biking as my commute, but it hasn't been very safe. I contacted my district supervisor and the leader of an advocacy group for turning the rail corridor into a multi-use path. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONFood, Agriculture, and Land UseAn average American throws out about 240 lbs of food per year. The average family of four spends $1,500 a year on food that they throw out. Where would you rather use this money?
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REFLECTION QUESTIONTransportationWhat have you noticed on your daily walks? What have you enjoyed? What infrastructure changes could make your walks more enjoyable or possible?
Madi McBride 10/31/2025 8:07 PMOn my walks, I've enjoyed exploring my neighborhood more. I've noticed a lack of pedestrian infrastructure, and sidewalks would be great. In many areas, I had to walk in the road because there were no sidewalks, and cars were parked on the shoulder. It would also be beneficial to have more crosswalks with clear signals and accessible routes for people with mobility issues. -
Alexis Montelongo 10/31/2025 8:07 PMI think I will continue eating one vegan meal a day :P -
REFLECTION QUESTIONFood, Agriculture, and Land UseIn 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?
Jonathan Ruckman 10/31/2025 7:42 PMYou can utilize an entire vegetable in a dish by boiling it, grinding it, and steaming it.
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REFLECTION QUESTIONLand SinksHow is planting trees good for your mental, physical, and spiritual health?
Jonathan Ruckman 10/31/2025 7:41 PMPlanting trees is good for your mental, physical and spiritual health because humans are meant to be in nature. And we tend to feel the safest and happiest when we have fresh air, a lot of green space, and sunlight. This works so well because this is how nature intended us to exist.