http://www.earthlab.com/signupprofile/
I have a real feeling of concern for our environment. I always have, even before the recent publicity about the Poles melting (if that doens’t get our attention I don’t know what will!). I don’t know who could not be concerned about what we are doing to our earth. I wonder whether in years to come we will be asked by our Grandparents in much the same way we ask our Grandparents what they were thinking when civil rights were such a big issue for women and black people in North America, how they could have not known that was wrong. I know, their answer is that is just the way it was. I’m glad the main movement of people started to do something about it and I think the world is better because of their change in thinking. I think that is what we need to do no about the environment. We have to change our thinking and re-evaluate what is appropriate and/or right.
I really like breathing fresh air and enjoying nature and if I can do my part to not trash it, I’d like to know how. So, I took took this survey to see my Carbon Footprint and I learned a few things that gave me more resolve to do better.
Here’s the link: http://www.earthlab.com/signupprofile/
I took the survey and it made me more committed to get a compost going (inspired by my Father, proud owner of 4 composts when we were growing up!) and keeping biking as much as possible even though sometimes its more convenient to drive. Mike bikes to work so our truck is off insurance so we only use 2 cars when we absolutely need to so I’m proud to say we are only a 1 car family still (even though we own 2:)
My score was 308 with the national average at 357. It estimates I have a carbon output of 11.7 tons every year compared to the average of 15.5 tons per year. I hope to be doing even better at this time next year when we have things in our new home running the way we want them to be.
I liked the way Mike said it once, “even if people don’t believe in climate change, there are plenty of other reasons not to live wasteful, sloppy, and imprudent. Personally, I’d rather not live in a dump if I don’t have to”.
Good for you Brooke. Are you using cloth diapers? I finally made the switch with Ezra, but they are great and I was wishing I had used them for the first 3 too… Oh- I have lost your number again. So please e-mail it to me or call!! I would love to chat again!
I love that you posted this. I don’t know a lot about the decline of our environment. I mean, there’s the obvious stuff, but I’ve never taken the time to sit down and research it. I don’t know if the melting icecaps are because of us or because of the natural waves our weather takes over the years. I’ve heard the arguments, I just haven’t figured it out yet for myself. And I don’t think it really matters all that much because I agree with Mike. To me, I try to focus on the spiritual law — we are supposed to be good stewards. If this earth is our home and a gift from God, then we have a responsibility to take care of it the best way we know how. Right now, we know how to take better care of it…and we’re just not doing it. That’s why I support many “things” that have to do with environmental issues. I can’t think of one environmental issue that people haven’t caused. If we are to be good stewards, then we need to dig ourselves out of the mess we have created, because it’s our responsibility. I started “going green” a while back when I realized how much money you save! Marcus and I are super cheap (I like to say frugal) people. Well, our one car is a heck of a lot cheaper than driving multiple cars. Less insurance, less gas. Plus walking and biking is healthier. Having your own gardens — healthier and way less expensive than produce in the store — no pesticides, etc. Reusing containers, using towels instead of paper towels, weatherizing our homes, etc…it all saves $! We all win when we think of our environment. (off my soapbox now)
(Sidenote: I want to use cloth diapers with our next baby. I know they have come a long way since my mom used them. Do you use them? And if so, I’d love to hear about it. I want to get some pointers from people I know — brands, tips, etc.)