Case in point...
A few of our friends are the center of my sustainable universe...they always are on the cutting edge of research, new solutions (some very low-tech solutions too!), and holistic sustainability concepts. They recently gave up all things cow-related because of the CO2 emissions w/ mass production of cow-related products (milk, steak, leather, etc.) as well as the methane emissions from the cow itself. I appreciated hearing their 'lessons learned' and unique solutions as well as unexpected problems that arose from trying to eliminate this from the daily routine. It's not easy to avoid cow products, let me assure you. But, that's not enough. Now they are going to try and give up the refrigerator for a month to see how difficult it is. The overall goal is to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions - they've identified all these sources of emissions and have systematically made changes to great success.
Some people may think that is extreme, but I think they are adventurous and have a genuine interest in seeing how far they can go to reduce their impact. While I'm not ready to give up the fridge, I am ready to make a more concerted effort to reduce my impact. I do, however, enjoy the challenge.
In my day-to-day routine, I have identified standards I am implementing in work and home life:
- Only buying appliances that have an energy rating on them (Energy Star minimum)
- Any new equipment (e.g. water heater) must compare sustainable options as well as traditional using life cycle cost analysis, not just up front costs
- All office products must have a minimum recycled content - from folders to pens, I am able to support the post-consumer recycled market (thanks, Terracycle!)
- When my car finally died, I purchased a hybrid vehicle for work and personal use
- Walk or telecommute whenever possible. Since driving is often a requirement, planning out trips to reduce travel time and the volume of trips has been a priority
- Support local businesses whenever possible
As for this year's resolution? We are going to identify recycling centers that take materials the city won't - styrofoam, plastics, and more. We are also planning to purchase renewable energy credits from NC GreenPower (it's surprisingly cheap!), and low-impact client gifts such as Terrapass. And, since sustainablity isn't just about the environment, I'm also planning donations to my favorite charities and have committed to donating time/services to start up businesses in sustainability.
There is so much that can be accomplished if you make an effort. I admit these goals are not nearly as lofty as giving up the refrigerator, but finding the right mix that makes sense for my business/personal life is also important.
There are a lot of good things that come out of evaluating your energy use, emissions, and purchases. You'll also realize there are a lot of things you can do to reduce your impact while still maintaining a lifestyle you enjoy. What is your sustainability resolution?
If you have any suggestions for me, please drop me a note in the comments or to info (at) springleafstrategies.com. I love hearing ideas I have not considered.
1 comments:
Excellent post! One of the things we have done in the new year is to purchase as much locally as possible (remove the hidden costs of shipping, support our local economy, and purchase from organizations that treat their animals humanely). Our chest freezer holds 1/3 of a pig, 1/4 of a cow, and a lot of bulk local chicken. We also regularly get boxes of seasonal vegetables and eggs from local farms and co-ops. And for the record, our meals have never tasted better, and have never been more nutritional! Eat local, you'll never go back!
Mike
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