- 1. Minimize single-use plastic consumption: S: Replace a commonly used single-use plastic item with reusable alternatives every week, accumulating every week. This could be plastic cups, straws, takeout, plastic bags, etc. M: Track progress by the total count of items replaced. A: Identify affordable and accessible alternatives for commonly used single-use plastic items. R: Aligns with the broader goal of reducing plastic pollution. T: Achieve zero-use in single-use plastic consumption by the end of the semester.
- 2. Explore sustainable commuting in NYC: S: Use alternative transportation methods (public transport, walking, biking) instead of taking an Uber. M: Monitor the frequency of Uber rides and track the use of sustainable alternatives. A: Plan routes and schedules to accommodate sustainable commuting options in the city. Start riding my bike once the weather warms up! R: Contributes to reducing carbon emissions in urban areas. T: Achieve less than 5 rides on Uber throughout the semester.
- 3. Cook more, order less: S: Cook at least seven home-cooked meals per week, reducing reliance on takeout and delivery. M: Keep a weekly count of home-cooked meals. A: Plan and prep meals ahead of time to make home cooking more convenient. R: Reduces packaging waste and promotes healthier eating habits. T: Achieve at least 50% home-cooked meals by the end of the semester.
- 4. Promote paperless practices: S: Transition to digital alternatives for note-taking, task lists, and school work. M: Track the SternPrint paper credit count. If credit decreases paper was printed. A: Explore note-taking apps, digital calendars, and online collaboration tools. R: Reduces paper consumption. T: Use less than 20 credits (10 pages) this semester.
- 5. Practice mindful consumption: S: Evaluate and minimize unnecessary purchases including online shopping, focusing on essential and sustainable items. M: Keep a record of monthly expenditures and categorize purchases as essential or non-essential. A: Set a budget for non-essential items and research sustainable alternatives. R: Reduces overall consumption, leading to less waste and environmental impact. T: Limit non-essential purchases to a budget of $500 for the semester.
A punch list can be for an individual, family, community, company, or city. It is the list of the actions you or a group will undertake and accomplish over a predetermined span of time—one month, one year, five years, or more. You can make different lists for different time periods—this week and this year for example.