Vivek Gupta

I will replace inefficient heating and cooling units.

I will replace manual thermostats with programmable ones that allow me to lower the heat or air conditioning when I am at work or on vacation.

I will replace my lawn with a drought-tolerant landscape and save the water, money, and time I used to spend cutting the grass.

I will avoid wasting water while waiting for the shower or sink to heat up by ensuring my pipes and water heater are properly insulated. Insulating jackets for water heaters often costs just $10 to $20, and can save up to 1100 lbs (498.9 kg). of CO2 per year for an electric water heater, or up to 220 lbs (99.7 kg) for a gas heater.

I will save up to 15 gallons (56 L) of water a day by installing an efficient showerhead. They cost just $10 to $20 each, and typically save 300 lbs (136 kg) of CO2 per year for electrically heated water, or 80 lbs (36.2 kg) for gas-heated water.

I will reduce the amount of water flushed and save up to 11 gallons (41 L) of water per day by installing a toilet tank bank.

I will walk, run, or bike to places during the EcoChallenge that I would normally drive or take public transit, taking note of my surroundings.

I will maintain a record of all my purchases. This will help me determine what I actually need going forward and what I can live without.

I will create or support a sharing economy with family, friends, and neighbors.

I will not buy anything except items required for health and safety, reducing waste and clutter in my daily life.