July/August 2025 – UU Conscious Consumers Monthly Challenge

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Conscious Consumers Summer Sustainability Challenges:

Try one or more of these simple challenges to make a difference this July & August!

As summer heats up, it’s a great time to rethink how we celebrate and stay cool with sustainability in mind. Here are two ideas for July and August that can help you reduce waste, cut energy use, and stay informed:

JULY– BBQ with a Twist

This year, let’s celebrate Independence Day by claiming independence from single-use plastics and excessive meat consumption. Whether you’re gearing up for the 4th of July or just love a summer cookout, consider hosting a Reusable BBQ:

  • Ditch disposables- Bring or provide reusable plates, cups, and utensils for your celebrations.
  • Go plant-based: try veggie burgers, grilled mushrooms, or tofu skewers.
  • Skip charcoal and opt for propane or electric grills for cleaner air.
  • Compost your scraps and recycle to keep our landfills free of unnecessary waste.

Let’s celebrate consciously and keep our air, water, and land free on and around the holiday that’s all about freedom!

AUGUST – Smart Ways to Beat the Heat

August temperatures are climbing – and so are energy bills. Even one more degree of global warming makes a big difference. Here’s how to prepare smarter and stay efficient:

  • Program your thermostat. Not sure how? Learn how to set your Nest or smart thermostat – or ask a friend to help. UU Princeton’s Dunbar Birnie can give you some tips.
  • Check your settings. Away for the day? Adjust the temp and save energy.
  • Stop procrastinating – and challenge yourself. You’d be surprised how much easier life gets when you understand your devices and set them to be efficient. Take 30 minutes this month to learn how your home systems work. A cooler, more efficient summer is just a few taps (or a short read) away.
  • Pick one efficiency project you’ve been avoiding and commit to getting it done right.
  • Look for leaks; From toilets to faucets to spigots, small drips waste big water. Fix that leak!
  • Practice smart habits. Use fans before AC and shade your windows to keep the house cool before turning on the air.

The Conscious Consumer mission is to raise awareness among members of how everyday consumption habits affect the interconnected web of existence, and to encourage members, through monthly and annual challenges and calls-to-action, to adopt habits that can positively impact the following areas: climate change, conservation, human and animal welfare, and health.