Action Guide

Steps

1. 1.List everything you ate in the last week
2. 2.Check labels for origin of each item
3. 3.Research farmers markets and local producers within 50km
4. 4.Identify 3 items you could source locally starting next week

Steps

1. 1.Get containers with drainage (reuse yogurt containers)
2. 2.Source potting soil or make from compost
3. 3.Plant easy herbs: basil, mint, chives, parsley
4. 4.Place in sunny window, water when soil is dry

Steps

1. 1.Search for existing community gardens in your area
2. 2.If none exist, identify potential land (vacant lots, church grounds, parks)
3. 3.Gather 5-10 interested neighbours
4. 4.Approach landowner or municipality with proposal
5. 5.Start small: even 4-6 raised beds creates momentum

Steps

1. 1.Partner with local library, community center, or cafe
2. 2.Collect seeds from successful local growers
3. 3.Create simple cataloging system (envelopes with growing info)
4. 4.Host seed swap events seasonally
5. 5.Document which varieties perform best locally

Resources

Steps

1. 1.Read your water meter at start and end of day
2. 2.Track which activities use most water (shower, toilet, dishes)
3. 3.Identify your water source (municipal, well, rainwater)
4. 4.Map where greywater currently goes

Steps

1. 1.Calculate your roof catchment area
2. 2.Install gutters if not present
3. 3.Set up collection barrel(s) with screen filter
4. 4.Connect overflow to garden swale or second barrel
5. 5.Use for garden irrigation (check local regulations for other uses)

Steps

1. 1.Identify your watershed boundaries
2. 2.Find where local streams and rivers flow
3. 3.Locate water treatment facilities
4. 4.Map natural springs and wells in the area
5. 5.Document flood-prone and drought-prone areas

Steps

1. 1.Walk your street and introduce yourself
2. 2.Exchange phone numbers or contact info
3. 3.Note any skills, resources, or needs mentioned
4. 4.Invite one neighbour for tea or coffee

Steps

1. 1.Design a simple skills survey (use our template in Toolkit)
2. 2.Go door-to-door or distribute at community gathering
3. 3.Compile results into shareable directory
4. 4.Identify gaps and training opportunities
5. 5.Host first skill-share based on most common "want to learn"

Steps

1. 1.Survey neighbours for tools they'd be willing to share
2. 2.Find a central storage location (garage, shed, community space)
3. 3.Create simple checkout system (spreadsheet or app)
4. 4.Set ground rules for care and return
5. 5.Expand based on demand

Steps

1. 1.Check all windows and doors for drafts
2. 2.Inspect insulation in attic and walls
3. 3.List all appliances and their energy ratings
4. 4.Track electricity usage for one week
5. 5.Identify top 3 energy drains to address

Steps

1. 1.Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and outlets
2. 2.Add thermal curtains or window film
3. 3.Install door sweeps and weather stripping
4. 4.Add rugs to cold floors
5. 5.Use fans strategically before AC

Steps

1. 1.Review last month's spending
2. 2.Categorize: local business, regional, national chain, online
3. 3.Calculate percentage spent locally
4. 4.Identify 3 purchases you could shift to local alternatives

Steps

1. 1.Gather 10-20 interested participants
2. 2.Agree on system: 1 hour = 1 credit regardless of service
3. 3.Create simple tracking (spreadsheet or timebanking software)
4. 4.Hold monthly gatherings to build trust
5. 5.Celebrate exchanges and expand network

Resources

Steps

1. 1.Identify who has medical training already
2. 2.Organize group first aid certification course
3. 3.Create shared first aid supplies in multiple locations
4. 4.Establish communication protocol for emergencies
5. 5.Practice scenarios together

Steps

1. 1.Get a local plant identification guide or app
2. 2.Walk your neighbourhood noting what grows
3. 3.Learn 5 edible plants and 5 medicinal plants
4. 4.Practice identifying them in different seasons
5. 5.Never harvest more than 10% of any wild population

Steps

1. 1.Map existing green spaces and gardens
2. 2.Identify gaps in connectivity
3. 3.Coordinate with neighbours to plant native species
4. 4.Add water sources (bird baths, small ponds)
5. 5.Reduce or eliminate pesticide use along corridor

Steps

1. 1.Research historical extreme weather in your area
2. 2.Assess home for heat, cold, flood, and wind risks
3. 3.Identify cooling without AC (shade, ventilation, thermal mass)
4. 4.Plan for multi-day power outages
5. 5.Know your evacuation routes if needed