TREAD LIGHTLY
Changes today can mean a better climate for the future.
“Treat the earth well: It was not given to you by your parents, it was loaned to you by your children. We do not inherit the Earth from out ancestors; we borrow it from our children.” - Ancient Indian Proverb
While I appreciate that one day is set aside each year, everyday should really be Earth Day. This event encourages each of us to reflect on the fact that we are a part of, not apart from, nature. Given this connection, it’s our job to be better stewards. Scientists are now warning that we are moving closer to the “tipping points,” where we would see irretrievable damage to our world.
Climate change is the biggest crisis facing the current generation. But we have the ability to bring in a new awareness through green economics and sustainable development. Each of us must do our part; small changes can make a big impact if we work together to create a green future.
Most of the development Americans have enjoyed over the last decade has come at the expense of nature. Over the past century, we have destroyed over half of the world’s wetlands and original forests. Many Americans are in a state of denial, not wanting to forsake their lifestyle, consume less or live a simpler way. Though nearly all developed areas are guilty of over-consumption, North America has made the largest ecological footprint of any civilization. Scientists are predicating climate change will affect those in developing countries first and most dramatically. While these destitute regions face this fate, it’s the rich developed world that has produced the most carbon emissions, and it’s their job to start reversing the damage.
As consumers, we can demand businesses and government organizations create sound environmental choices. Change is inevitable, but change is usually slow. Unfortunately, when it comes to the climate, we don’t have the luxury of time.
In honor of Earth Day, I have created a list of steps you can take today to start reversing our footprint. The time is upon us to ask if we are contributing to a sustainable future. When I was a kid, my family recycled cans, and at the time it was a big deal. We now know that cans aren’t enough.
Can you really make a difference, when the problems are so big? Yes. The consumer alone drives the economy. If we start consuming less and buying only earth-friendly products and energy efficient appliances, then we send a clear message to business and political leaders. I know it’s hard to hear, but the days of consuming as much as we want, whenever we want, are gone. Make every day, Earth Day.
• The Four R’s. Rethink, Reuse, Reduce and Recycle!
• Be energy efficient. Energy efficient alternatives are becoming more prevalent. Buy compact fluorescent light bulbs, energy efficient appliances, carpool, buy a hybrid, turn off lights and unplug the television.
• Washers. Avoid running small loads of laundry.
• Be Simple. I know it’s hard in our society, but an easy way to conserve energy is to use and buy less. Everytime you buy something energy is spent.
• Turn off the water when you are brushing your teeth.
• Buy houseplants. They help reduce indoor air pollution and nourish the air with oxygen. Also, plant a garden and trees.
• Start a compost pile. You can put fruit or vegetable scraps, cut grass and plant trimmings in the compost. Compost piles control landfill space and are a great fertilizer.
• Turn down the heat in the winter. Put on extra layers of clothes instead of turning that dial.
• Buy local and organic foods. Buying local foods means the food doesn’t have to travel as far, which means less CO2 output. Plus, it’s a great way to support your local economy.
• Drink from a glass. Plastic bottles, steel and aluminum adds up to excessive amounts of fossil fuels. Most stores have reverse osmosis water machines where you can continue to fill up water pitchers.
