The Flow Campaign 4/3/2011 Issue 4

4/3/2011-4/9/2011   Issue 4

Environmental Quality The truth of the matter is that we cannot wait any longer for our leaders to make the tough decisions in regards to environmental quality.  Elected officials can only follow what their constituents are already taking steps to address.  Our individual actions can have a huge positive impact on our surroundings. This week we will focus on some small steps that we can take as individuals to improve our own environmental quality in the form of energy use reduction. First the things we can do around the house that are simple, but practical to both reduce our energy use and reduce our energy bills. 1.     Turn off lights and electronic equipment when not in use. 2.     When a light bulb burns out replace it with a Compact Fluorescent Bulb. 3.     Turn your heat down to 55 degrees or less at night or when you are not home. 4.     If you have access to your water heater, turn it down to 120 degrees. 5.     Shut down computers when not in use. 6.     Always wash full loads of dishes and clothing. Next let’s talk about the main problem which is over-consumption.  We cannot completely rule out buying material goods as we do have legitimate needs and desires when not overindulged are a good thing.  Let’s focus on a few ways we can reduce our consumption or make some fundamental changes that are practical. 1.     Wait 24 hours before buying something you see in a store that was unplanned. 2.     Do not buy “Green” products when the materials you have are still perfectly functional. Only buy new products to replace defective or broken items. 3.     We cannot buy our way out of climate problems; we need to reduce our material accumulation. 4.     When purchasing materials try to purchase in bulk or purchase items with less packaging. 5.     Buy local products when you can to reduce amount of travel for the item. 6.     Make a shopping list and stick to it.  If you see an item that you really want add the item to your shopping list for your next trip.   Recommendations This week’s website recommendation is: Seattle Public Library Events This week’s book recommendation is: The Lazy Environmentalist on a Budget by Josh Dorfman Sign up for the weekly newsletter.		Steve Koonin: America’s Energy Challenge Environmental, Governance www.townhallseattle.org Monday, April 4, 2011 | 7:30 – 9pm   Disaster Preparedness Training Community, Material www.sustainablewestseattle.org April 7, 2011      6PM  - 7 PM   Plate of Nations Community, Culture www.plateofnations.com Through April 9,2011