Community Environmental Council (CEC) and Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation – with support from 165 additional partners – announced the launch of Born This Way Foundation’s third annual #BeKind21 Campaign. As communities across the world face the trauma of a pandemic, the ongoing racial inequalities, and a host of global challenges, this year’s campaign has been uniquely designed to be responsive to today’s movements, showcasing that kindness is not an empty gesture; rather, kindness is a verb. To be kind is to speak up. To be kind is to prioritize your mental wellness. To be kind is to advocate for a world that values, validates, and respects all people.
Food Resilience
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At home: Purchase food from local and diversified producers as much as possible. Learn more.
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At home: Plant a garden – even if it’s a window herb pot – and compost your food waste. Learn more.
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At home: Commit to making one plant-based meal per day for the next week – and learn why keeping up this habit is good for the planet. Learn more.
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At home: Reduce food waste through smarter meal planning and waste free cooking practices. Learn more.
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In the community: Encourage local restaurants and grocery stores to sign up with a food rescue organization in their community to donate surplus food. Learn more.
Plastic and Waste Reduction
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At home: Upcycle film plastic. Learn more.
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At home: Reduce the amount of single use and “disposable” plastic in your life wherever possible and reuse whatever you are able to – most plastic is not recycled. Learn more.
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In the community: Sign petitions to stop plastic pollution. Learn more.
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In the community: Ask your grocery store if you can bag your own groceries, request that your coffee shop resume allowing reusable cups, and urge restaurants to refrain from sending unneeded straws, cutlery, napkins, and condiments home with your take-out.
Energy Resilience
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At home: Turn off lights when you leave a room and unplug small items like phone chargers when not in use to save electricity. Learn more.
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At home: Opt for LEDs next time you purchase light bulbs.
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At home: Install home solar + battery storage. Learn more
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At home: Switch to a 100% renewable Green Rate through your utility. Learn more.
Climate Justice
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At home: Learn about the intersection between racism and climate change.
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In the community: Speak out against structural racism and inequities. Learn more.
Community Resilience
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At home: Ensure everyone is cared for – get to know neighbors and be a lifeline. Learn more.
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In the community: Collaborate on a community vision for local climate resilience. Learn more.
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In the community: Support green businesses. Learn more.
Clean Transportation
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At home: Switch to an electric vehicle if you’re able and save money. Learn more.
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At home: Replace one driving trip per week with alternate transportation – biking, walking, or telecommuting. Learn more.
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In the community: Give input on Santa Barbara County transportation plans. Learn more.
