earth day

i think that earth day is more important than ever before. we need to reassure people that there are things that they can do in their daily lives that will help combat greenhouse gases. i think most folks are either not aware that little things add up in what they do- or are unwilling to change their lifestyles to help. even folks who rent can make a few changes here and there- and we can all donate our time- even if we don't have much- to picking up pieces of trash in the neighborhood; or emailing a congressperson; or surfing the web for some ideas. if 30 million americans weatherstripped their windows- for less than $10- think of the savings in c02 emissions and utility bills. if 30 million americans kept their tires inflated properly and drove 55 mph- think of the gas savings. little things add up. take a look at the earth day site for more tips--and of course, let's keep the pressure up in washington. also- remember in this consumer driven economy- if you create a market- someone will want to fill it up and make a profit- so buy local and help out someone you know!

i wanted to highlight the beavan family. colin beavan is keeping a blog about their progress and what not at no impact man. this family is taking the 'leave no footprint' approach to living for a full year- i think that they are like 5 months in. now, while i find that admirable, and i know i am a horrible person- i could not live without toilet paper and other needs we ladies have. i could probably live without everything else but those 2 things. i think more of us could do well to make our lives simpler. think about things that you have to dust or vacuum around. think about turning off the power strip of all of the electronics we all typically have. the more i think about it- the more apt i am to do it-- because i feel guilty being wasteful. when i think about all i have compared to someone who lives in eastern europe or parts of south east asia, or africa, or the middle east-- or even mexico-- i feel grateful indeed. there is no need to be excessively wasteful just because we can. enjoy what you have but remember that you are lucky to have it. happy earth day!