Wildfires are a recurring issue in Monterey County. The Colorado Fire, which burned 687 acres near Big Sur occurred in January of this year. Other massive wildfires that have burned in Monterey County include The 2021 Willow Fire, and the 2020 Dolan Fire. Monterey County is also susceptible to flooding when there is heavy rainfall. The city of Monterey has an overall moderate risk of flooding, which may not seem severe, however there are 310 properties in Monterey that have greater than a 25 percent chance of being seriously affected by flooding over the next several decades. Floods risks are increasing in Monterey county as a result of changes within the environment such as higher seas, new weather patterns, and stronger storms.
When I went to the grocery store last weekend, I intentionally purchased two gallon bottles of water. I got into the habit of buying single-use 16oz bottles of water, and in participating in this Eco Challenge, I decided to make a change. I also used single-use items when I ate out at restaurants, such as when a sauce came with the meal. The tiny plastic containers and packages that condiments come in are likely abundant in our waste facilities.
I actually just bought some gallon-sized bottles myself! I'm working on preparing emergency kits for my family, something I've been meaning to do and now have the chance with this eco-challenge. We invested in a Brita jug a few years ago and now Costco has thier Kirkland brand jug and filters, which make it wayyyy cheaper. The jug lasts forever and the box comes with 12 filters, we haven't had to buy another box in over 6 months! Thrift stores have tons of Nalgene bottles and REI is always having sales. We bought our 62-ounce hyrdoflasks on sale for $20 a few months ago. Plastic bottles only live in our cars for emergencies and emergency kits.
Today I intentionally took a five minute shower. It was surprising how easy is was to take a short shower. I tend to turn the water on at least one minute before I enter the shower. I am trying to get into the habit to getting in the shower as soon as I turn the water on, and not getting distracted while I am in there.
