Pura Vida: Costa Rica

November 18-22, 2024

The annual Ecochallenge event, run in coordination with International Education Week, will have the theme of Pura Vida: Costa Rica. 

Join the Ecochallenge to participate in a campus-wide sustainability initiative to make our community greener! The Ecochallenge is a week-long program that has daily events and activities that students, faculty, and staff can participate in to earn points. At the end of the week, there will be prizes for those who earned the most points!

These are the daily topics for this year's challenge:

 

Graphic of Mountains and Clouds

Day 1: Conservation & Biodiversity

We live on an incredible world full of awe-inspiring creatures and landscapes. Learn more about conservation efforts around the world and locally, and discover nature in your backyard!

Example Actions:

Support Local Pollinators
Spend Time Outside
Join an Outdoor Project

Graphic of Community Holding Hands

Day 2: Community & Justice

The best way to create change is to do it together. By building inclusive and thoughtful communities to share experiences and expertise, we're envisioning a sustainable future for everyone.

Example Actions

Connect with a nonprofit
Learn about equity and inclusion
Buy from a farmers market

Graphic of Food

Day 3: Food & Water

It's not just about what we're consuming, it's about where it comes from. How are systems working to preserve local communities, thriving economies, and natural resources?

Example Actions

Eat Local
Lower Your Water "Footprint"
Attend the International Dinner

Graphic of renewable energy options

Day 4: Climate Crisis

While it's important to tackle dangerous forces threatening our climate, we must also take care of ourselves to make the greatest impact. You'll find actions for both on this day.

Example Actions

Adjust the Thermostat
Support Resilient Power Grids

Bin with a recycling sign over it

Day 5: Rethink Waste

Where does our waste go once we're done with it? By reducing waste at the start of the process, we're minimizing the impact of our purchases and are practicing thoughtful consumerism.

Example Actions:

Visit the Spider Exchange
Compost Food Scraps
Visit a Refill Store


This week is a phenomenal opportunity for learning, engagement, and partnership across campus. Find new ways to incorporate sustainable living into your daily life, connect with new peers, and earn points to win prizes! Sign up for this year's Ecochallenge starting on November 4. 

Register on November 4!

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