My hibernation from reality is over, so three days into the new year I will finally say to my readers, “Happy New Year!” I hope 2007 was a good one for you, and that the trials and tribulations you faced were outweighed heavily by joy and discovery. I trust that you’re all better people now than you were one year ago today.
For me, 2007 was a year of learning and once-in-a-lifetime events. I completed graduate school, got married, saw my brother get married, and accepted a new position at work. Three of those things I hope never to do again, not only to preserve the happiness in each moment, but also to not dilute it.
For 2008, I want to grow in my “greenness” and see the world around me do the same. I’m optimistic, as the signs of change are present. Thousands of green buildings are under construction around the United States, and the world. Major corporations are adopting sweeping corporate policies to change the way they do business and reduce the waste they create while doing so. Environmentally friendly technologies are being refined and implemented into everyday products. And most importantly, general awareness is increasing. People are paying more attention to the effects of their behavior, and in turn, making changes.
But, all is not well. The U.S. is still lagging in taking responsibility for the pollution it emits. The surprising commitment made by the U.S. in Bali a few weeks ago was a huge step, but only one of many. Increasing the efficiency of automobiles in the U.S. is another big step, and some progress is being made with legislation. Further, more commitment needs to be made to properly designing cities, reducing sprawl and building more mass transit.
I’ve touched on some of the big issues at hand, but there’s so many little things you can do to help. The impact of one person’s commitment may not be measurable, but there’s no denying the impact of a thousand people’s commitment. Buy organic, locally grown food. And bag them in reusable sacks. Eat less (no) meat. Walk more, bike more, and ride the bus or train more. Reuse things. Turn off the lights. Don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth. Buy a more efficient car, if you must have one at all. Telecommute to work even one day a week. Support environmentally friendly policies locally and nationally. And most importantly, teach your children these things, and why they’re important. It probably wouldn’t hurt to mention something to our coworkers, friends and family too.
Cheers! Organic beer does exist you know . . .
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