In honor of Earth Day (April 22), this month’s challenge focuses on reducing waste—small changes can make a big environmental impact. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency offers several ideas for reducing, reusing, and recycling at home, work, and in the community.
Easy ways to start include:
- Using reusable bags and rags instead of disposables
- Going paperless with billing
- Decluttering intentionally: donate, sell, recycle, or repurpose unused items
- Saving energy: turn off lights, unplug devices, and use efficient bulbs
- Repairing items instead of discarding them
- Shopping secondhand before buying new
- Planning and prepping meals at home
This month we challenge you to take an intentional step to reduce waste. Self-report what you did using the online form below, by Monday, April 27, 2026, to earn a FREE ticket for the prizes at the Health & Wellness Day (Friday, May 1, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m., Public Safety Building, EOC). Attendance is required to claim your ticket.
Need Ideas:
- Tackle some spring cleaning
- Safely dispose of old or unused medications at our Sheriff’s Department
- Donate gently used items to local thrift or recycling stores
- Join NCDOT’s Spring Litter Sweep (April 11–25, 2026) to help clean local roadways. Contact HR with your group size, location, and planned date/time. Supplies will be provided.
Once you’ve completed your Waste Reduction task, don’t forget to report your participation to receive your ticket! After submitting your entry, you’ll receive one ticket toward a Health & Wellness prize of your choice! Tickets will be available for pickup at the registration desk on Health & Wellness Day.
The Wellness Committee have purchased some great prizes this year, here are just some of the prizes:
- Walking pad
- Portable crock pot
- Pilates kit
- Indoor grill
- Pickleball set
Let’s celebrate Earth Month by reducing waste, giving back, and feeling great while doing it!
