Getting back to basics: Sustainability can be about the little things too

 Having recently completed a survey of the latest and greatest developments in sustainability, which included a review of current legislature in Congress to effect policy thereto, I can't help but think how much in life is about the simple things.  The tried and true maxim ' Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' embraces so much of what we need in terms of behavior shifts that would maximize metrics and optimize outcomes. We all know policy can help shift behavior, as can economic incentives (or disincentives) like the prohibitive cost of oil and gas - but it is still the behavior of the masses that might mean most.

Here is a list of simple things that can make such a big difference to a sustainable future - keep in mind these are the 'whats'.  For the  'how's' and 'why's' we can, perhaps, enjoy some follow up posts to discuss : (these are in no particular order) - feel free to add to the list!

1.  Take steps to eliminate junk mail or encourage use of recyclable junk mail
2.  Reduce the water flow of faucets or showerheads , consider low volume toilet flushes
3.  Work to use cleaners, cleansers and detergents with 'cleaner' content
4.  Make do with lower thermostat-temperatures in the winter, higher ones in the summer
5.  Insulate the home as well as possible and then use energy efficient items (i.e. CF bulbs)
6.  Use as little petroleum-based product as possible (i.e. latex paint vs. oil-based)
7.  Use as little lead-based product as possible (i.e. unleaded gas)
8.  Carpool whenever possible, or consider the cleanest power - human (bike, walk)
9.  Explore alternative energy locomotion and power but be wary of 'hidden fossils'
10.  Adopt public and green spaces - clean them, green them, and preen them
11.  Either use less styrofoam or take steps to effectively recycle it (for ICF diehards)
12.  Recycle anything humanly possible - composting IS recycling!

These are just 12 maxims - and there are so many more - but imagine if we all strove to do what we could on this list.  We would achieve a more sustainable quality place within a much shorter timeframe.  We need to drive these in grassroots fashion through education, advocacy, and awareness.  Together we all can drive meaningful positive change!

And I could never be happier.
 

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courtyard by Trinity Cathedral.pdf [1]	610.36 KB
tower city.pdf [2]	834.81 KB
cleveland heroes.pdf [3]	515.32 KB