Well, this has been a long time coming.
After much consideration I have decided to formally end this chapter of Sustainable Sakonnet and stop publishing at this blog.
The reality is: It's kind of been ended for a while now. Since launching The New Pursuit about a year ago, my writing focus has been there as I've been exploring bigger and broader things related to this interesting mix of Life, Nature and Being. Couple that with my not-so-new-anymore bi-weekly column called "Simple Green Living" in the East Bay Life section of the Sakonnet Times (and all the other community papers under the mantle of East Bay Newspapers), and I no longer have the bandwidth to write here.
Beyond that, I continue to look for ways to simplify my life -- both online and off. Even though I wasn't publishing here all that often, having this sense of formal closure will help me peel it away for good.
Who knows? At some point, it might make sense to bring Sustainable Sakonnet back. But for now, it's farewell.
And with that I'd like to thank the countless people who have taken time to stop by, read and comment; those whom have given me well-wishes around town for the effort here the last four-or-so years; those who work so tirelessly in their own ways to make Sakonnet more sustainable for generations to come.
Until next time, thanks and be well. Feel free to stop by The New Pursuit at any time and say hello.
Best,
Bill
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
15 Simple Ways to Go Green and Save Green
BY BILL GERLACH | FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER
[Editor's Note: This is a companion piece to this week's Simple Green Living column in East Bay Life. Simple Green Living is my new bi-weekly column dedicated to sharing all things related to simple and sustainable living.]
What’s better than embracing a more eco-friendly lifestyle to ensure our planet’s resources are around for countless generations to come? Keeping a few more of our hard-earned dollars in our pocket in the process.
That’s the beauty of simple, green living. It’s a win-win for all: Ourselves, our communities and the planet we all call Home. And if you’re like our family, finding ways to sock away a few more dollars each month opens up all kinds of opportunities – from paying off debt to supporting to a local charity to saving for that not-so-far-off college tuition bill.
Sure, whether because of simple supply and demand or (unfortunately) the result of over-zealous and misleading marketing, going with the green option can be more expensive in some cases. But many times, you have to separate need from want, fact from fiction and look at the practical long-term return on your ‘investment’.
What follows are fifteen simple ways you can go green and save money.
AT HOME
Getting an energy audit for your home is one of the best ways to identify opportunities for savings. If National Grid is your energy provider you can get a free home energy audit through RISE Engineering.
While you’re waiting for that, here are a few more practical steps you can take:
With gas prices on the rise again, there is no better time to green your transportation.
This Week’s Micro-Action: Take one tip from the above list and do it. From there, commit to adding one more per week. If you like the results, share them with a few of your friends.
What are some of the things you’re doing to go green and save money in the process? Feel free to leave a comment below and share.
Be well,
Bill
[Editor's Note: This is a companion piece to this week's Simple Green Living column in East Bay Life. Simple Green Living is my new bi-weekly column dedicated to sharing all things related to simple and sustainable living.]
What’s better than embracing a more eco-friendly lifestyle to ensure our planet’s resources are around for countless generations to come? Keeping a few more of our hard-earned dollars in our pocket in the process.
That’s the beauty of simple, green living. It’s a win-win for all: Ourselves, our communities and the planet we all call Home. And if you’re like our family, finding ways to sock away a few more dollars each month opens up all kinds of opportunities – from paying off debt to supporting to a local charity to saving for that not-so-far-off college tuition bill.
Sure, whether because of simple supply and demand or (unfortunately) the result of over-zealous and misleading marketing, going with the green option can be more expensive in some cases. But many times, you have to separate need from want, fact from fiction and look at the practical long-term return on your ‘investment’.
What follows are fifteen simple ways you can go green and save money.
AT HOME
Getting an energy audit for your home is one of the best ways to identify opportunities for savings. If National Grid is your energy provider you can get a free home energy audit through RISE Engineering.
While you’re waiting for that, here are a few more practical steps you can take:
- Replace as many traditional incandescent light bulbs as you can with compact fluorescent (CFL) ones. They use about a quarter of the energy and last around six times as long. Just remember: CFLs contain small amounts of mercury so you have to dispose of them correctly. Rhode Island residents can drop off used CFLs at any Eco-Depot event. Massachusetts residents can search here for drop off locations near them.
- Install a low-flow showerhead to conserve water and the energy to heat and pump it. Don't forget: Taking shorter showers helps too!
- Wash your clothes in cold water for all cycles
- Why pay to keep your water super hot all day long? Turn down the temperature of your water heater to no more than 120 degrees.
- Did you know that clothes dryers account for about six percent of your home’s energy usage? Put up a clothesline and line-dry your clothes instead. For more green laundry tips, check out Project Laundry List, a non-profit organization dedicated to the promotion of greener laundry practices all around.
- Install a programmable thermostat to better control fluctuations in temperature and avoid over-heating (or cooling) when you’re asleep or not home.
- What’s your favorite vegetable? Try growing your own this summer. For less than $2.00 you can get enough seeds to grow more tomatoes than you can shake a stick at.
- Simplify your arsenal of cleaners and eliminate lots of toxic chemicals in the process. With simple, natural ingredients such as baking soda and vinegar you can clean almost anything. Find recipes here.
- Replace old, inefficient appliances with new, EnergyStar-rated versions. You may even be able to take advantage of a tax credit too. Learn more at the EnergyStar website.
- Do we all need a shed full of yard tools? Save on big ticket items by setting up a tool share or swap program with your family or neighbors. You might be able to throw in a bit of bartering for good measure too.
- Everything from appliances to DVD players to cell phone chargers use small amounts of energy even when not in use. Avoid these ‘phantom energy’ situations by unplugging them when they are not being used.
- Try your hand at making your own laundry detergent and dishwasher detergent
With gas prices on the rise again, there is no better time to green your transportation.
- Keeping your car in shape can help it run more efficiently and save on gas. Simple steps like keeping your tires properly inflated and your air filter clean can help. For more tips check out this wikiHow article.
- If your commute is on the longer side, find someone to carpool with. Switch off cars and driving every other week and you’ve instantly cut your monthly gas consumption in half – and kept a bunch of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere too. Live or work in RI? Check out this RIPTA program for carpooling opportunities. Live or work in MA? Check out massRIDES.
- Avoid lots of little trips by batching your errands by general location
- Take public transportation if and when you can
This Week’s Micro-Action: Take one tip from the above list and do it. From there, commit to adding one more per week. If you like the results, share them with a few of your friends.
What are some of the things you’re doing to go green and save money in the process? Feel free to leave a comment below and share.
Be well,
Bill
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Is Suburban Living a Matter of Trade-offs?
BY BILL GERLACH | FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER
A few weeks back, my friend Nate gave me the heads up on a story from USA Today about a study that concluded that walkable communities have happier people.
It seemed logical enough so I went off to calculate Tiverton's own Walk Score. Guess what? My fears were realized when our score came back: Zero. Zilch. Nadda. Our community is not walkable according to this tool.
It makes sense. Aside from areas like North Tiverton, Main Road and the Commons in Little Compton, there is little in the way of sidewalks and other alternative transportation infrastructure to get your human-powered transportation on. Sure, you don't need nice neat sidewalks to head out for a walk, but between the craziness of back-road drivers and the lack of destinations, there is little incentive to leave the car at home.
When talking it over with my wife, we launched into a broader discussion about the trade-offs of suburban living in the Sakonnet area:
And so it went. If life is about navigating the give and take of everyday living then shacking up in the burbs certainly presents you with some challenging terrain.
Here are a few more supposed trade-offs that come to mind:
Could suburban living ever be transformed to one of true sustainability -- both at the individual household level and the collective community level? What if very real and tangible scenarios -- like steep rises in the cost of gasoline -- forced us to redesign how we went about our day-to-day? Should we be proactively planning for these things through something like a Transition Initiative or wait and cross that bridge when (note: not 'if') we get there?
What do you think? Were there conscious trade-offs in your decision to live in the burbs? Do you wish anything could be different? Is the Best of Both Worlds a pipe dream?
Be well,
Bill
P.S.: If everything sticks to schedule, my new bi-weekly column, Simple Green Living will debut in next week's East Bay Life section of the Sakonnet Times. Be sure to check it out and let me know what you think. Thanks!
[image: andygeek]
It seemed logical enough so I went off to calculate Tiverton's own Walk Score. Guess what? My fears were realized when our score came back: Zero. Zilch. Nadda. Our community is not walkable according to this tool.
It makes sense. Aside from areas like North Tiverton, Main Road and the Commons in Little Compton, there is little in the way of sidewalks and other alternative transportation infrastructure to get your human-powered transportation on. Sure, you don't need nice neat sidewalks to head out for a walk, but between the craziness of back-road drivers and the lack of destinations, there is little incentive to leave the car at home.
When talking it over with my wife, we launched into a broader discussion about the trade-offs of suburban living in the Sakonnet area:
My Wife: "The suburbs are all about trade-offs."
Me: "Yes, but..."
My Wife: "You don't have sidewalks, but you do have a big yard to garden."
Me: "I know. I do like that."
My Wife: "And we have good schools. And the ocean. And..."
Me: "Agreed. But we should be able to have it all..."
And so it went. If life is about navigating the give and take of everyday living then shacking up in the burbs certainly presents you with some challenging terrain.
Here are a few more supposed trade-offs that come to mind:
- More open space versus having all your shopping needs fulfilled in town
- Yards for kids to play in versus having to head to the community playground or park
- Having the ocean at your back door versus being landlocked on an urban island
- Farms and farmers bolstering our local food infrastructure versus shipping all our food in from miles away
Could suburban living ever be transformed to one of true sustainability -- both at the individual household level and the collective community level? What if very real and tangible scenarios -- like steep rises in the cost of gasoline -- forced us to redesign how we went about our day-to-day? Should we be proactively planning for these things through something like a Transition Initiative or wait and cross that bridge when (note: not 'if') we get there?
What do you think? Were there conscious trade-offs in your decision to live in the burbs? Do you wish anything could be different? Is the Best of Both Worlds a pipe dream?
Be well,
Bill
P.S.: If everything sticks to schedule, my new bi-weekly column, Simple Green Living will debut in next week's East Bay Life section of the Sakonnet Times. Be sure to check it out and let me know what you think. Thanks!
[image: andygeek]
Monday, December 27, 2010
Looking Ahead to 2011
Well it's been a while, hasn't it?
I admit, it hasn't been on purpose; life just has a way of finding other things for you to do sometimes. Back in April, I launched a new endeavor -- The New Pursuit -- and it just took off. My voice felt a bit freer there. But the Call of Community has never been far away. Of late, it's been scratching at the door again.
REDISCOVERING THE 'UNITY' IN COMMUNITY
The more I look around, the more the signs are clear: The return to the power and solace of community is a necessary step for reclaiming our collective sense of self; for rediscovering that our similarities far outweigh our differences; for achieving that critical balance between our existence and the long-term prosperity of this little planet we call Home.
It is through that Unity of Experience we can transform ourselves, our communities and in no short order, our world.
I continue to believe that here in our neck of the woods, we are poised to blaze a trail in this direction. As I drive around and look at things, as I talk to folks, it is clear that people want a return to simpler things; to things that are deeply rooted in the people and places that are familiar.
NURTURING THIS RETURN
That familiarity is the base from which our community can grow and prosper -- socially, economically and ecologically.
Socially speaking, 2010 saw a boon in events that brought us together. From farmers markets to cow flops to fund raising concerts; from theater performances to art exhibits to youth sports; from garden tours to open houses to cultural bazaars. The energy and vibe that such gatherings creates is undeniable. We're creating ways to escape the four walls of our homes and interact; to meet and exchange with neighbors and friends. This is way better than any TV show or movie.
In terms of economy, there's not much to say here as few have escaped the shadow of the ongoing 'Great Recession'. Many of our neighbors have seen better times. Local businesses -- that backbone of our local and regional economies -- have also had to bear their part of the struggle. Our support of these businesses is more critical than ever.
Looking at our local environment and ecological resiliency, we continue to be at a critical juncture. The often-opposing pressures of development, investment and conservation are at an all-time high. There have been successes though: The preservation of Ferolbink Farms and the advancement of the East Bay Energy Consortium hit the highlight reel for sure. But we need more as the challenges will only be getting stronger: Redesigning local transportation in the face of rising fuel prices; continued investment in our local food and economic infrastructure; community and school education... This list is long. But not impossible to achieve with the proper investment of time, willpower and resources.
OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS ALL OF US
Alas, it will be only through the coming together of all of us -- hanging our labels, ideologies and agendas at the door -- that we will be able to take up these challenges and work together for the betterment of all. This is OUR community and OUR earth; OUR lives and OUR future.
With that, I want to leave you with a few resources that I have found absolutely amazing over the past few months. All bring together a fantastic intersection of community, environment and renewed resourcefulness.
As always, any thoughts, ideas or comments about how we continue to make the Sakonnet Community more sustainable and resilient are welcome! What would you like to see worked on in 2011?
Be well,
Bill
I admit, it hasn't been on purpose; life just has a way of finding other things for you to do sometimes. Back in April, I launched a new endeavor -- The New Pursuit -- and it just took off. My voice felt a bit freer there. But the Call of Community has never been far away. Of late, it's been scratching at the door again.
REDISCOVERING THE 'UNITY' IN COMMUNITY
The more I look around, the more the signs are clear: The return to the power and solace of community is a necessary step for reclaiming our collective sense of self; for rediscovering that our similarities far outweigh our differences; for achieving that critical balance between our existence and the long-term prosperity of this little planet we call Home.
It is through that Unity of Experience we can transform ourselves, our communities and in no short order, our world.
I continue to believe that here in our neck of the woods, we are poised to blaze a trail in this direction. As I drive around and look at things, as I talk to folks, it is clear that people want a return to simpler things; to things that are deeply rooted in the people and places that are familiar.
NURTURING THIS RETURN
That familiarity is the base from which our community can grow and prosper -- socially, economically and ecologically.
Socially speaking, 2010 saw a boon in events that brought us together. From farmers markets to cow flops to fund raising concerts; from theater performances to art exhibits to youth sports; from garden tours to open houses to cultural bazaars. The energy and vibe that such gatherings creates is undeniable. We're creating ways to escape the four walls of our homes and interact; to meet and exchange with neighbors and friends. This is way better than any TV show or movie.
In terms of economy, there's not much to say here as few have escaped the shadow of the ongoing 'Great Recession'. Many of our neighbors have seen better times. Local businesses -- that backbone of our local and regional economies -- have also had to bear their part of the struggle. Our support of these businesses is more critical than ever.
Looking at our local environment and ecological resiliency, we continue to be at a critical juncture. The often-opposing pressures of development, investment and conservation are at an all-time high. There have been successes though: The preservation of Ferolbink Farms and the advancement of the East Bay Energy Consortium hit the highlight reel for sure. But we need more as the challenges will only be getting stronger: Redesigning local transportation in the face of rising fuel prices; continued investment in our local food and economic infrastructure; community and school education... This list is long. But not impossible to achieve with the proper investment of time, willpower and resources.
OUR COMMUNITY NEEDS ALL OF US
Alas, it will be only through the coming together of all of us -- hanging our labels, ideologies and agendas at the door -- that we will be able to take up these challenges and work together for the betterment of all. This is OUR community and OUR earth; OUR lives and OUR future.
With that, I want to leave you with a few resources that I have found absolutely amazing over the past few months. All bring together a fantastic intersection of community, environment and renewed resourcefulness.
As always, any thoughts, ideas or comments about how we continue to make the Sakonnet Community more sustainable and resilient are welcome! What would you like to see worked on in 2011?
Be well,
Bill
Thursday, June 10, 2010
June Soundbites
BY BILL GERLACH | FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER
Hi, everyone!
It’s been a while since I’ve posted here at Sustainable Sakonnet. Things have been busy as the summer shifts into gear. While work in the gardens is complete (for the moment) and the Little League season winds down, I have been focused on my new blog, The New Pursuit, some public speaking, and writing for ecoRI.org (more on that below).
With that, I think I am going to move to a monthly post here at Sustainable Sakonnet. There are so many great things happening in the area that to leave Sustainable Sakonnet by the wayside completely doesn’t feel right. I hope you agree.
FARMERS MARKETS KICKING OFF
Our very own Sakonnet Growers Market kicks the Summer 2010 season off on Saturday morning, June 19, at Pardon Gray Preserve (Main Road). Be sure to stop by, get some amazing local fare and support our local farmers and producers in the process. For a complete listing of farmers markets around the Sakonnet area, check out this list from Farm Fresh Rhode Island.
THS ‘ENVIRONMENT DAY’ SOWS SEEDS WITH STUDENTS
While most of the town was in the throes (folly?) of the Financial Town Meeting(s) last month, an amazing event took place at Tiverton High School.
Spearheaded by Social Studies Department Chair, Eric Marx, and the THS Green Team, the entire school—from faculty to students to support staff—participated in the first ever ‘Environment Day’.
The goal was to find creative ways of getting the students to think about aspects of the environment as it relates to their everyday lives. How do we view/interact with the environment from a math perspective? From a science perspective? From a literature perspective?
Each student began the day base-lining their own environmental impact by calculating their carbon footprint. Have you ever done this? It’s a great exercise. A number of tools can help you try it for yourself.
The highlight of the event—for me anyway—was the Speakers Forum. Five speakers, four of them THS alumni (including myself), who are involved in some way in the green arena gave presentations on the topic of their choice. It was amazing (and inspiring) see how many local people are involved in making the world a better place – each in their own unique way. Here’s the run down:
UPDATE ON THE NEW PURSUIT
Alas, I have been quite humbled by the response to my new blog, The New Pursuit. Even after just two months, it’s been amazing connecting with so many new people and sharing insights, ideas and stories on what it means to live deeply each day through the reconnection with life, nature and being. As content is being shared through features on other blogs and use of social media tools like Twitter and Facebook, more and more people are subscribing each day to receive free updates.
With that, I am actively pursuing new opportunities to write and speak on the topic of reconnecting with life, nature and being (what I like to call ‘eco-being’). If you are looking for a speaker for an upcoming event and think this message might resonate with your audience, please email me (at gerlachbill-at-yahoo-dot-com) to explore it further. I am happy to tailor content to create the best fit.
Until next month, be well.
Bill
Hi, everyone!
It’s been a while since I’ve posted here at Sustainable Sakonnet. Things have been busy as the summer shifts into gear. While work in the gardens is complete (for the moment) and the Little League season winds down, I have been focused on my new blog, The New Pursuit, some public speaking, and writing for ecoRI.org (more on that below).
With that, I think I am going to move to a monthly post here at Sustainable Sakonnet. There are so many great things happening in the area that to leave Sustainable Sakonnet by the wayside completely doesn’t feel right. I hope you agree.
FARMERS MARKETS KICKING OFF
Our very own Sakonnet Growers Market kicks the Summer 2010 season off on Saturday morning, June 19, at Pardon Gray Preserve (Main Road). Be sure to stop by, get some amazing local fare and support our local farmers and producers in the process. For a complete listing of farmers markets around the Sakonnet area, check out this list from Farm Fresh Rhode Island.
THS ‘ENVIRONMENT DAY’ SOWS SEEDS WITH STUDENTS
While most of the town was in the throes (folly?) of the Financial Town Meeting(s) last month, an amazing event took place at Tiverton High School.
Spearheaded by Social Studies Department Chair, Eric Marx, and the THS Green Team, the entire school—from faculty to students to support staff—participated in the first ever ‘Environment Day’.
The goal was to find creative ways of getting the students to think about aspects of the environment as it relates to their everyday lives. How do we view/interact with the environment from a math perspective? From a science perspective? From a literature perspective?
Each student began the day base-lining their own environmental impact by calculating their carbon footprint. Have you ever done this? It’s a great exercise. A number of tools can help you try it for yourself.
The highlight of the event—for me anyway—was the Speakers Forum. Five speakers, four of them THS alumni (including myself), who are involved in some way in the green arena gave presentations on the topic of their choice. It was amazing (and inspiring) see how many local people are involved in making the world a better place – each in their own unique way. Here’s the run down:
- Sarah Forrest // A 2001 grad and engineer at Vanderweil Engineers, Sarah gave an overview of how buildings play an important role in using resources wisely. She showcased her work on the LEED-certified Newton North (MA) High School.
- Caitlin Luderer // Talked about her work developing and promoting the field of sustainable tourism. She currently volunteers with the Blackstone Valley Tourism Council. Caitlin is a 2000 grad.
- Nicole Lebreux // A 2001 grad and owner of Fidget Finds, Nichole gave the students an understanding of the impact that the mainstream clothing industry has on the environment and human rights while promoting the eco-friendly benefits of buying vintage threads.
- Joe McLaughlin // The only non-THS grad, Joe is Director of Properties at the Norman Bird Sanctuary. He gave a great overview of the history and mission of the Sanctuary while sharing his own journey of finding his life’s passion.
- And finally, there was me // I gave a presentation entitled “Being (Is) the Solution”, based largely on my writing at The New Pursuit. The message was simple and straightforward: While doing all sorts of things to limit your impact on the environment is important, it’s really only a band-aid. Rather, a deeper, longer-lasting impact can be realized by changing our perspective—our state of being—on how we fit in with the natural world around us and challenging what it means to be a consumer. The response was fantastic – and quite humbling. I used the presentation as the basis for my last opinion piece at ecoRI.org.
UPDATE ON THE NEW PURSUIT
Alas, I have been quite humbled by the response to my new blog, The New Pursuit. Even after just two months, it’s been amazing connecting with so many new people and sharing insights, ideas and stories on what it means to live deeply each day through the reconnection with life, nature and being. As content is being shared through features on other blogs and use of social media tools like Twitter and Facebook, more and more people are subscribing each day to receive free updates.
If you haven’t visited yet, I hope you would take a moment to swing through. You may want to start with some of the posts proving most popular with readers:
- Life is Knocking: 9 Reasons Why We Should Answer the Call to Live Deeply
- The 7 Joys of Time Well Spent and How to Realize Them
- 33 Simple Things to Get You Reconnect With Nature
- The series on changing perspectives
- Any of the Monday Meditations
With that, I am actively pursuing new opportunities to write and speak on the topic of reconnecting with life, nature and being (what I like to call ‘eco-being’). If you are looking for a speaker for an upcoming event and think this message might resonate with your audience, please email me (at gerlachbill-at-yahoo-dot-com) to explore it further. I am happy to tailor content to create the best fit.
Until next month, be well.
Bill
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Event Notice: Be Green Kids Consignment Sale
Passing along some info I received on this event. Be well.
_____________________________
Be Green Kids Consignments is pleased to announce that their first ever seasonal kids consignment sale will be held this week/end in Middletown, RI.
A seasonal consignment sale is a place where families can purchase brand-name new and gently-used children items for 50-90% off retail prices. Items include spring/summer clothes (infant to pre-teen), shoes, toys, books, dvds, baby equipment & gear (strollers, high chairs, exersaucers, activity mats, etc), furniture (cribs, pack-n-plays, changing tables), bedding, bikes/trikes and much, much more.
There are 80 consignors registered to sell their items, and over 6,000 items in the inventory system! At the conclusion of the event all unsold items will be donated to Child & Family Services of Newport County (at consignor discretion).
WHAT: Be Green Kids Consignment Sale
WHERE: Fraternal Order of Police Hall, 464 Mitchells Ln, Middletown, RI (off East Main Road- next to Newport National Golf Club)
WHEN: Saturday, May 15th 9:00am-6:00pm and Sunday, May 16th 10:00am-1:00pm (*Discount day. Most items marked 50% off)
FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.BeGreenSale.com
_____________________________
Be Green Kids Consignments is pleased to announce that their first ever seasonal kids consignment sale will be held this week/end in Middletown, RI.
A seasonal consignment sale is a place where families can purchase brand-name new and gently-used children items for 50-90% off retail prices. Items include spring/summer clothes (infant to pre-teen), shoes, toys, books, dvds, baby equipment & gear (strollers, high chairs, exersaucers, activity mats, etc), furniture (cribs, pack-n-plays, changing tables), bedding, bikes/trikes and much, much more.
There are 80 consignors registered to sell their items, and over 6,000 items in the inventory system! At the conclusion of the event all unsold items will be donated to Child & Family Services of Newport County (at consignor discretion).
WHAT: Be Green Kids Consignment Sale
WHERE: Fraternal Order of Police Hall, 464 Mitchells Ln, Middletown, RI (off East Main Road- next to Newport National Golf Club)
WHEN: Saturday, May 15th 9:00am-6:00pm and Sunday, May 16th 10:00am-1:00pm (*Discount day. Most items marked 50% off)
FOR MORE INFORMATION: www.BeGreenSale.com
Saturday, May 1, 2010
My New Blog Has Launched!
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
It's been a long time coming, but it's finally here. I'm pleased to introduce my new blog: THE NEW PURSUIT.
So what is The New Pursuit you ask?
For me, the title has multiple meanings. Personally, it's a new online journey that I'm taking, looking to connect with a wider range of ideas, people and perspectives. This new blog will allow me a new platform to pursue my dream of becoming a professional writer and speaker.
At its heart though, The New Pursuit speaks to a broader more deeper journey. The popularity of the green movement has or is close to reaching its zenith. This is good as it has opened the door and allowed many people to take their first steps towards stepping lightly. This process must continue.
But for many -- myself included -- who have been diligently doing all those sustainable things for so long I believe there is a yearning for something more. Something that goes beyond just DOING green things. Something that encompasses other elements of living in this world and ties it all together. We must shift from doing to being using Nature as a catalyst and a point of reconnection.
Writing Sustainable Sakonnet over the past three years has allowed me to explore and share so many things with all of you. I am grateful for all the comments and well wishes you have sent my way. At this point, I'm not sure what will happen with S.S. Perhaps you have a thought about this?
With that, I invite you to check out The New Pursuit. If you like what you read, please consider signing up to receive free updates via RSS or Email. You may even consider sharing it with some friends.
Thank you and be well,
Bill
So what is The New Pursuit you ask?
For me, the title has multiple meanings. Personally, it's a new online journey that I'm taking, looking to connect with a wider range of ideas, people and perspectives. This new blog will allow me a new platform to pursue my dream of becoming a professional writer and speaker.
At its heart though, The New Pursuit speaks to a broader more deeper journey. The popularity of the green movement has or is close to reaching its zenith. This is good as it has opened the door and allowed many people to take their first steps towards stepping lightly. This process must continue.
But for many -- myself included -- who have been diligently doing all those sustainable things for so long I believe there is a yearning for something more. Something that goes beyond just DOING green things. Something that encompasses other elements of living in this world and ties it all together. We must shift from doing to being using Nature as a catalyst and a point of reconnection.
Writing Sustainable Sakonnet over the past three years has allowed me to explore and share so many things with all of you. I am grateful for all the comments and well wishes you have sent my way. At this point, I'm not sure what will happen with S.S. Perhaps you have a thought about this?
With that, I invite you to check out The New Pursuit. If you like what you read, please consider signing up to receive free updates via RSS or Email. You may even consider sharing it with some friends.
Thank you and be well,
Bill
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
We Need YOU at the Financial Town Meeting
Thanks to Brian Medeiros over at C.U.R.B. (Citizens United for Responsible Budget), I feel as though I have a great handle on what's happening regarding the town budgeting process in Tiverton.
This recent post is OUTSTANDING, presenting ALL the facts that are necessary to make well-informed decisions come May 8 at the Financial Town Meeting. (Why do certain parties continue to omit that little detail about the town not receiving $1.4 million dollars in state car-tax funds?)
If you have never attended a Financial Town Meeting. This is the year to do it. We need EVERYONE there. Read up on things at C.U.R.B. Know the impacts of NOT voting for the 9% tax increase:
Please do your part. Get the facts and then join your neighbors at the Financial Town Meeting starting at 9:00AM on May 8 at the Tiverton High School. See you there.
This recent post is OUTSTANDING, presenting ALL the facts that are necessary to make well-informed decisions come May 8 at the Financial Town Meeting. (Why do certain parties continue to omit that little detail about the town not receiving $1.4 million dollars in state car-tax funds?)
If you have never attended a Financial Town Meeting. This is the year to do it. We need EVERYONE there. Read up on things at C.U.R.B. Know the impacts of NOT voting for the 9% tax increase:
- The closing of one elementary school. (Yes, one of the brand new ones...)
- The lost of important social services like Visiting Nurses
- The lost of extra-curricular activities and sports at the school
- Decreases in town services like snow plowing
- And the list goes on..
Please do your part. Get the facts and then join your neighbors at the Financial Town Meeting starting at 9:00AM on May 8 at the Tiverton High School. See you there.
Monday, April 19, 2010
Answering the Call to Live Deeply
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
The more I look around the more I see a movement underway.
People are feeling a subtle yet constant tug – like an eager toddler at your legs – that something is awry in their life and the life of the world. Many have put their hopes in material happiness. Yet now, those same people are seeking to establish a new balance in their lives, abandoning the pursuit of ‘more’ that consumerism has pushed upon us and the resulting disconnect with the natural world it has fostered.
People are plugged in more and outside less. They are buying more things and turning a blind eye to the impact that such pillage of the natural world brings with it. We have reached a point of needing to 'save' the only home we—and all those future generations—will ever have.
When you live deeply you:
• Shed the unnecessary and embrace what remains
• Are one with Nature, not apart or above it
• Allow mindfulness to bring the present moment into focus
• Live by example and share this insight with others, especially children
This journey takes time and patience but it is worth the taking.
For me, this journey is taking a new and exciting turn. My new blog project—launching very soon—will allow me to pursue this call to live more deeply and connect with all those around the world who are feeling that same tug. I can’t wait to share it with you and invite you to join the journey too.
To be among the first to know when the new site launches, please consider subscribing to Sustainable Sakonnet today via RSS feed or Email. Or follow me on Twitter.
Until next time, I leave you with an excerpt from the poem “The Children” by Gary Snyder:
stay together
learn the flowers
go light
Be well,
Bill
[Image: Ben Heine via Flickr]
People are feeling a subtle yet constant tug – like an eager toddler at your legs – that something is awry in their life and the life of the world. Many have put their hopes in material happiness. Yet now, those same people are seeking to establish a new balance in their lives, abandoning the pursuit of ‘more’ that consumerism has pushed upon us and the resulting disconnect with the natural world it has fostered.
People are plugged in more and outside less. They are buying more things and turning a blind eye to the impact that such pillage of the natural world brings with it. We have reached a point of needing to 'save' the only home we—and all those future generations—will ever have.
When you live deeply you:
• Shed the unnecessary and embrace what remains
• Are one with Nature, not apart or above it
• Allow mindfulness to bring the present moment into focus
• Live by example and share this insight with others, especially children
This journey takes time and patience but it is worth the taking.
For me, this journey is taking a new and exciting turn. My new blog project—launching very soon—will allow me to pursue this call to live more deeply and connect with all those around the world who are feeling that same tug. I can’t wait to share it with you and invite you to join the journey too.
To be among the first to know when the new site launches, please consider subscribing to Sustainable Sakonnet today via RSS feed or Email. Or follow me on Twitter.
Until next time, I leave you with an excerpt from the poem “The Children” by Gary Snyder:
stay together
learn the flowers
go light
Be well,
Bill
[Image: Ben Heine via Flickr]
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Help Tiverton's Library Recover from the Flood
The historic floods of the other week left most of us impacted in one way or another. While we all work to get our own homes and properties back to normal we shouldn't lose sight of what it means to come together as a community in tough times. Case in point is Essex Library.
The library was hit particularly hard. The basement level, which houses the children and teen sections, lost over 4,000 books and numerous computers due to the flooding. Knowing how much we rely on the library, this news hit us hard.
But Friends of Tiverton Libraries (FOTL), in partnership with Tiverton Library Services, have come together to offer the community a few ways to help with the flood relief:
The library was hit particularly hard. The basement level, which houses the children and teen sections, lost over 4,000 books and numerous computers due to the flooding. Knowing how much we rely on the library, this news hit us hard.
But Friends of Tiverton Libraries (FOTL), in partnership with Tiverton Library Services, have come together to offer the community a few ways to help with the flood relief:
- You can make a tax-deductible donation by writing a check to "FOTL for Library Flood Relief" and mailing it to 238 Highland Road, Tiverton, RI 02878. FOTL is a registered 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to expanding and promoting library services in cooperation with Tiverton Library Services.
- If you live the area you can also check out the Applebee's Dine-to-Donate Benefit night on Thursday, April 22, from 5:00pm - 9:00pm at the Plymouth Avenue location in Fall River (map). Applebee's will donate 15% of the evening's income from Benefit participants to FOTL. To make your dinner count, you must present a special flyer at the start of your meal. Flyers will be available at both Essex and Union Libraries, as well as at the Tiverton Library website. (Note: I did not see anything available for download yet; check back soon.)
Monday, April 5, 2010
2010 CSA Round-Up
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
With the rain behind us (fingers crossed!) we can start looking forward to all those farm fresh fruits and veggies that are on their way. We put in our first plantings of spinach, lettuces, and peas this past weekend. I don't know who was more exited -- me or the kids!
Growing some of your own food is a great way to reconnect with Nature, get your hands dirty and be a bit more self-sufficient. But when you can’t do that, signing up for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program is fantastic alternative. Sure, you can support local farmers and producers at any of the farmers’ markets nearby, but when you take part in a CSA, you drive your connection with our local food system a bit deeper.
With a CSA you pay an upfront amount for a “share” of the farmer’s production for a specific period of time. This helps the farmer secure much-needed funds early in the season to kick-start things and helps them gauge how much should be planted for the season. Then each week you reap the benefits of the harvest as your fresh produce makes its way to your home.
But just like any venture, you are also sharing a bit of risk with your farmer. Rains can hit hard or not at all. An ailment can hit the crops. Your produce is not always guaranteed. But your farmer bends over backwards to give you the best that s/he has to offer.
With that, here are a few local CSA programs you might want to check out this year:
A complete listing of CSA options in and around the 02878 zip code can be found at Farm Fresh RI.
Good luck and stay tuned for a round up of all the great area farmers markets in the coming weeks!
Be well,
Bill
Growing some of your own food is a great way to reconnect with Nature, get your hands dirty and be a bit more self-sufficient. But when you can’t do that, signing up for a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program is fantastic alternative. Sure, you can support local farmers and producers at any of the farmers’ markets nearby, but when you take part in a CSA, you drive your connection with our local food system a bit deeper.
With a CSA you pay an upfront amount for a “share” of the farmer’s production for a specific period of time. This helps the farmer secure much-needed funds early in the season to kick-start things and helps them gauge how much should be planted for the season. Then each week you reap the benefits of the harvest as your fresh produce makes its way to your home.
But just like any venture, you are also sharing a bit of risk with your farmer. Rains can hit hard or not at all. An ailment can hit the crops. Your produce is not always guaranteed. But your farmer bends over backwards to give you the best that s/he has to offer.
With that, here are a few local CSA programs you might want to check out this year:
- Mello’s Farm Stand (Tiverton/Portsmouth)
- Simmons Farm (Middletown) (website down; phone: 401.848.9910)
- Wishing Stone Farm (Little Compton)
A complete listing of CSA options in and around the 02878 zip code can be found at Farm Fresh RI.
Good luck and stay tuned for a round up of all the great area farmers markets in the coming weeks!
Be well,
Bill
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tips for Recycling Hard-to-Recycle Stuff
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
In the quest to throw away less, our family has always been challenged by a few things, namely what to do with all that hard-to-recycle stuff. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), batteries and items made of #5 plastic (e.g., yogurt containers) top our list.
So we did a little digging and compiled this little list of resources to help you keep more stuff out of your landfill:
CFLs
Remember that CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, so sending them to the landfill is not a good idea. A few options for recycling include:
Did you know that nearly 3 billion batteries are sold in the U.S. annually? With all the different types out there, knowing what to do with each kind can get confusing. While non-rechargeable kinds tend to be throw-away, re-chargeable varieties should be recycled. Here are some resources:
This stuff abounds. From yogurt containers to take-out containers to you name it, #5 plastic is everywhere. Given its low re-sale value, many municipal/state recycling programs don't take it. There are some great options out there though:
According to a 2008 Consumer Electronics Association study, the average American household owns 24 electronic devices. In an era where it's easier to throw old, broken electronics in the trash instead of repairing them, there is too much potential for some of the hazardous materials in them to wreak havoc. Here are some alternatives:
So we did a little digging and compiled this little list of resources to help you keep more stuff out of your landfill:
CFLs
Remember that CFLs contain a small amount of mercury, so sending them to the landfill is not a good idea. A few options for recycling include:
- Home Depot -- Most stores will take your used CFLs. Details here.
- Earth 911 -- Just put in your zip code and go. Search now.
- IKEA -- Drop offs at most stores. Details here.
- If you live in Rhode Island, you can bring your spent CFLs to any Eco-Depot event.
Did you know that nearly 3 billion batteries are sold in the U.S. annually? With all the different types out there, knowing what to do with each kind can get confusing. While non-rechargeable kinds tend to be throw-away, re-chargeable varieties should be recycled. Here are some resources:
- The Environment, Health and Safety Online (EHSO) site is a great one-stop resource for all you could ever want to know about batteries and their disposal. You can search for local recycling centers by zip code too.
- Earth 911 -- Just put in your zip code and go for batteries too. Search now.
- Rhode Island residents can bring spent automotive and re-chargeable batteries to any Eco-Depot event.
This stuff abounds. From yogurt containers to take-out containers to you name it, #5 plastic is everywhere. Given its low re-sale value, many municipal/state recycling programs don't take it. There are some great options out there though:
- Preserve -- The maker of cool recycled plastic toothbrushes and razors has teamed up with Whole Foods and Stonyfield Yogurt to create the "Gimme5" campaign. Details here.
- Earth 911 -- Just put in your zip code and go for this stuff too. Search now.
According to a 2008 Consumer Electronics Association study, the average American household owns 24 electronic devices. In an era where it's easier to throw old, broken electronics in the trash instead of repairing them, there is too much potential for some of the hazardous materials in them to wreak havoc. Here are some alternatives:
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in partnership with many consumer electronics companies, has launched the "Plug-In e-Cycling" program. Details and retailer drop off locations are here.
- Earth 911 -- You know the drill. Search now.
- Rhode Island resident? Select e-waste items can be brought to most Eco-Depot events.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Portsmouth's Newest Turbine: Delivering 110%
John McDaid over at hard deadlines has an excellent post examining what Portsmouth's newest turbine has delivered in the year since becoming operational.
The consensus: It is delivering more than anyone could have expected.
Chew on this quote by Rich Talipsky, chair of the Portsmouth Economic Development Committee:
A small cadre of citizen volunteers are working hard as part of the East Bay Energy Consortium to make renewable wind energy a reality for our area. When it comes time to lend support to such projects, please remember Portsmouth and do your part to make renewable energy happen in Tiverton.
The consensus: It is delivering more than anyone could have expected.
Chew on this quote by Rich Talipsky, chair of the Portsmouth Economic Development Committee:
"The project team members often look up at the wind turbine and say, 'How did we do it?' And, when we thought about it, we came to the realization that we had developed the right chemistry between the citizens, the Town leadership and the project contractor that enabled an honest dialogue. It was the heart of a working relationship that brought potential problems and issues to the forefront early so that they could be resolved."As Tiverton inches ever-forward on our own renewable energy path, such results should reinforce the potential this technology has.
A small cadre of citizen volunteers are working hard as part of the East Bay Energy Consortium to make renewable wind energy a reality for our area. When it comes time to lend support to such projects, please remember Portsmouth and do your part to make renewable energy happen in Tiverton.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Don't "CURB" Your Enthusiasm
Just the opposite: Roll up your sleeves, get educated, and get involved.
Kudos to former Tiverton Town Council member Brian Mederios on his newest endeavor: Citizens United for Responsible Budget (CURB-Tiverton). In just a short time, Brian has been hitting the media with critical op-ed pieces and a new blog challenging the status-quo when it comes to the fiscal vitality of Tiverton.
Coming off the debacle of the 2009 Financial Town Meeting, Brian is dead-set on making sure it doesn't happen again. According to the blog, the CURB agenda is simple:
As a tax payer, parent of three small children, and user of town services I am keenly aware of what is at stake at this year's Financial Town Meeting. I implore my peers: We need MORE parents at this meeting. We need YOU to help ensure that our town's budgeting process and spend of services is meeting the needs of all of us.
Being part of a vibrant community is about helping out each other. In some cases, you take one for the team to ensure the greater good. This is just one such instance. Please do your part. Thanks.
Kudos to former Tiverton Town Council member Brian Mederios on his newest endeavor: Citizens United for Responsible Budget (CURB-Tiverton). In just a short time, Brian has been hitting the media with critical op-ed pieces and a new blog challenging the status-quo when it comes to the fiscal vitality of Tiverton.
Coming off the debacle of the 2009 Financial Town Meeting, Brian is dead-set on making sure it doesn't happen again. According to the blog, the CURB agenda is simple:
The CURB-Tiverton Principle:
To attend the May 8 Financial Town Meeting and vote to support a common-sense budget that neither exceeds the state tax-cap nor results in significant cuts in community/school services.
CURB is a grassroots effort to preserve Tiverton's quality of life by uniting individuals and community groups in supporting a responsible municipal/school budget that balances maintaining services with containing costs.If you're interested, you can sign up to receive free updates through the blog or email.
As a tax payer, parent of three small children, and user of town services I am keenly aware of what is at stake at this year's Financial Town Meeting. I implore my peers: We need MORE parents at this meeting. We need YOU to help ensure that our town's budgeting process and spend of services is meeting the needs of all of us.
Being part of a vibrant community is about helping out each other. In some cases, you take one for the team to ensure the greater good. This is just one such instance. Please do your part. Thanks.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Help Me Celebrate a Birthday
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
A few weeks back Sustainable Sakonnet turned three.
Some of you may remember that first ambitious post. Not a lot has changed since then. The inspiration for the blog is still there and I have been humbled by everyone who has taken time to share their stories and insights. For me, S.S. has been and will always be about building community and dialogue.
But on this birthday, my wish is very simple: Help Sustainable Sakonnet grow.
If you have ever found value in some story or piece of content on this blog, could you help me grow our readership by forwarding this on to at least five friends? Ask them to sign up to receive free updates via RSS feed or Email. The new "Share" feature at the bottom of this post can help with that.
I have some exciting new things in the works that I plan to share more on in the coming weeks. In the interim, I have made some changes to the layout and organization of the site (notice the new "page" links at the top?) to help make your visits better and content more accessible. But it's only the start. There is so much more on this journey to share and experience together!
As always, thank you for your continued support of my work and that of Sustainable Sakonnet. You make all the difference and keep me going!
Be well,
Bill
[Image: HoneyBee KT via flickr]
Some of you may remember that first ambitious post. Not a lot has changed since then. The inspiration for the blog is still there and I have been humbled by everyone who has taken time to share their stories and insights. For me, S.S. has been and will always be about building community and dialogue.
But on this birthday, my wish is very simple: Help Sustainable Sakonnet grow.
If you have ever found value in some story or piece of content on this blog, could you help me grow our readership by forwarding this on to at least five friends? Ask them to sign up to receive free updates via RSS feed or Email. The new "Share" feature at the bottom of this post can help with that.
I have some exciting new things in the works that I plan to share more on in the coming weeks. In the interim, I have made some changes to the layout and organization of the site (notice the new "page" links at the top?) to help make your visits better and content more accessible. But it's only the start. There is so much more on this journey to share and experience together!
As always, thank you for your continued support of my work and that of Sustainable Sakonnet. You make all the difference and keep me going!
Be well,
Bill
[Image: HoneyBee KT via flickr]
Saturday, March 13, 2010
25 Simple Things to Do With Your Extra Hour of Sunlight
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
Tonight we turn back the clocks. Now before you start lamenting over “losing” that hour, take another perspective: Putting the clocks ahead means another hour of daylight at the end of your day!
Not sure what to do with that? Here is a short list of simple (and mostly free!) things you can do to make the most of your new-found “time”:
Not sure what to do with that? Here is a short list of simple (and mostly free!) things you can do to make the most of your new-found “time”:
- Have a dinner picnic down at Fogland or South Shore beach with your family or special someone
- Cook a fantastic meal outside
- Take an after-dinner hike at Weetamoo, Fort Barton, Wilbur Woods, or Simmons Pond.
- Walk or run some laps at Town Farm or the track at Tiverton High School
- Head out on a bike ride around town
- Take a stroll through Sakonnet Vineyards
- Grab a pick up game of basketball at the Bulgarmarsh Recreation Center or Wilbur & McMahon School
- Serve up some tennis at Town Farm or Tiverton High School
- Let your kids run off that extra energy at the playgrounds at Wilbur & McMahon or Town Farm
- Finally start that garden you’ve always wanted
- Plant a tree (or three!)
- Build yourself a compost bin
- De-clutter your life a little and clean out your garage or shed (don’t forget to freecycle!)
- Check out an event or class through the Sakonnet Arts Network
- See what is happening at our local libraries (Tiverton, Little Compton)
- Hang a clothesline and discover how awesome your clothes will smell after line drying
- Get settled watch that sun set (or moon rise)
- Enjoy an after-dinner concert by listening to the amazing bird songs at dusk
- When it gets warmer, watch the aerial acrobatics of the bats coming out as the sun goes down
- Play an after-dinner board game with the kids outside
- Cozy up to the fence and catch up with your neighbors
- Treat your dog to an extra-long run
- Treat yourself to an ice cream at Moose Cafe, Gray’s, or in the Commons
- Pencil in the Tiverton Financial Town Meeting into your calendar (Saturday, May 8) and commit to being there
- Last but not least, keep your lights, TV and any other electronic gadget off for another hour!
Thursday, March 11, 2010
DIY Dishwasher Detergent
By Bill Gerlach | Follow me on Twitter
On the heels of the DIY Laundry Detergent, here is a new recipe for homemade powder dishwasher detergent.
INGREDIENT LIST
What makes this DIY project great is that it uses two of the primary ingredients from the laundry detergent: Washing Soda and Borax.
There are several optional ingredients you could use -- citric acid and salt being at the top of that list. Based on my research most are used depending on the quality of water you have (hard vs. soft). I have used two versions -- one with the citric acid and one without -- with the same results. I have not tried a version using salt. You may want to start with the basic recipe of Washing Soda and Borax and expand from there depending on your results.
RECIPE
In an empty jar or container (mason jars or large yogurt containers work great), mix the Washing Soda, Borax, and Kool-Aid drink mix. Cover and shake well to incorporate. That's it.
This recipe yields sixteen 2-Tablespoon "servings" (your per-load amount).
A note about the Kool-Aid mix: You want to use the lemonade flavor because it is light in color. Other flavors contain coloring that could stain your dishes. (Bad!)
DOLLARS & SENSE
Unlike the laundry detergent, this DIY project isn't saving you a lot over the conventional dishwasher detergent. That said, if you have the ingredients on hand and can spare five minutes of work, you gain the satisfaction of making something instead of buying it.
Now the numbers:
Like I said, it's not the savings on this DIY project that counts, but the satisfaction of being resourceful and making something on your own. We have been using it for several weeks now with good results. You can't tell the difference. And, if you want to go all the way and get rid of the Jet Dry, consider using white vinegar instead.
Good luck! Let me know how you make out!
On the heels of the DIY Laundry Detergent, here is a new recipe for homemade powder dishwasher detergent.
INGREDIENT LIST
What makes this DIY project great is that it uses two of the primary ingredients from the laundry detergent: Washing Soda and Borax.
- 1 cup of Washing Soda
- 1 cup of Borax
- 1 packet of Lemonade Kool-Aid drink mix (for the citric acid, optional)
- 1/4 cup of salt (optional)
There are several optional ingredients you could use -- citric acid and salt being at the top of that list. Based on my research most are used depending on the quality of water you have (hard vs. soft). I have used two versions -- one with the citric acid and one without -- with the same results. I have not tried a version using salt. You may want to start with the basic recipe of Washing Soda and Borax and expand from there depending on your results.
RECIPE
In an empty jar or container (mason jars or large yogurt containers work great), mix the Washing Soda, Borax, and Kool-Aid drink mix. Cover and shake well to incorporate. That's it.
This recipe yields sixteen 2-Tablespoon "servings" (your per-load amount).
A note about the Kool-Aid mix: You want to use the lemonade flavor because it is light in color. Other flavors contain coloring that could stain your dishes. (Bad!)
DOLLARS & SENSE
Unlike the laundry detergent, this DIY project isn't saving you a lot over the conventional dishwasher detergent. That said, if you have the ingredients on hand and can spare five minutes of work, you gain the satisfaction of making something instead of buying it.
Now the numbers:
- Store Bought Detergent -- Using the 100-oz box of Cascade as our baseline, the per-ounce cost (according to Stop & Shop's Peapod site) is $0.07. Since two tablespoons weighs about an ounce, this works out to be your per-load cost as well.
- DIY Detergent -- One cup of either the Washing Soda (55-oz box at $2.99) or Borax (76-oz box at $3.99) weighs about eight ounces. Doing the math, 16 loads works out to $0.85 or $0.05 per load.
Like I said, it's not the savings on this DIY project that counts, but the satisfaction of being resourceful and making something on your own. We have been using it for several weeks now with good results. You can't tell the difference. And, if you want to go all the way and get rid of the Jet Dry, consider using white vinegar instead.
Good luck! Let me know how you make out!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Minimalism and the March Poll
I have been thinking about this a bit over the past few weeks and wanted to put that challenge out there in the form of our March Poll. In the ever-unfolding quest for simpler, more sustainable living, I have been enamored of late with a few great blogs on the minimalist lifestyle:
These writers/motivators are helping to lead a revolution in down-sizing our lifestyles (but not our lives!) to focus on the most important things. While the green angle is not always the key driver, it goes without saying that the environmental benefit of a minimalist lifestyle is dramatic. Want less, buy less. Buy less, produce less. Produce less, plunder the earth's resources less. You get the picture.
As I think about the many woes facing humanity these days, consumption in one way, shape or form is at the root of darn near all of them. Our priorities are skewed. We have lost sight of what true happiness is and can bring. And along the way, lost our true sense of self.
Let's be clear, I have a LONG way to go to being a Superstar Minimalist, but it is about the journey for me. Letting go and eliminating what is no longer necessary to "be". Eliminating the clutter -- physical, digital, emotional or otherwise. Making way for simpler living at home and at work. Hopefully, using the process to help teach our kids about knowing what is most important in life.
But I would be remiss if I didn't answer the poll question for myself. For stuff that I alone use, I would put the count at between 100 and 250. This includes everything from books to tools and garden stuff to clothes. Perhaps I'll chronicle the liberation process from time to time. Clearly I have room to improve.
Where do you net out at? What is motivating you to do more with less?
[Image: jasontheaker via flickr]
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Event Notice: Practical Composting Clinic
You can never compost enough in my book. This clinic, offered through the URI Master Composter & Recycler program, should be great. (Click on the image to enlarge.)
Monday, March 1, 2010
Tips for Forming a "Green Team" at Work
Over the past year I have had the privilege of co-leading the development of a new "green" team at work. Our group is focused on not only educating employees on environmental issues, but more importantly, initiating business activities that benefit the planet AND the bottom line.
With that, I thought I would pass along some tips for helping you form your own green team:
Make the Case for Greening Your Business
Saving the planet is great. Saving the planet AND driving value for your business is even better. Try building your business case and program around the "triple bottom line" of the Corporate Social Responsibility Model: people, planet, profit. Business doesn't have to operate in "value silos". Score bonus points if you can tie "green" or sustainable efforts to your business model, strategy, or value proposition in some way.
Create a Solid Plan
If you cannot demonstrate a clear action plan for achieving that triple bottom line your efforts will fall flat. Our annual plan is primarily comprised of two parts: Business Initiatives and Community Initiatives. The former allows us to identify and execute opportunities that drive business value (e.g., reduce electricity or paper usage); the latter enables us to connect with local non-profits with an environmental focus and help their efforts through volunteering.
Find a Champion
Otherwise known as getting buy-in from the top. Find someone senior in your organization who shares similar values to "sponsor" your efforts. This person can help forward your mission through public (and visible) support and the removal of organizational obstacles that might get in your way.
Measure, Analyze, Improve
Having solid numbers to drive the creation and ongoing execution of your action plan is invaluable. Take baseline measurements such as electricity usage, waste volume, and recycling rates to know where you are starting from. Then as you take steps to improve your performance, you can measure your impact. Regular measurement of your efforts can also help you identify ways to enhance your action plan along the way.
Benchmark and Network
More and more companies are embracing ways to make their business more sustainable. Learn from them what works and what doesn't. B Corporation, Climate Counts, and GreenBiz are excellent sites to start this process. If you find a few companies close to you, consider creating an ongoing discussion series to improve networking.
Be Inclusive
The more people in your company you can connect with who share the same values and enthusiasm for sustainable business, the better your chance of success. Consider creating a grassroots network of "green ambassadors" throughout your company to help spread the message, execute your action plan, and generate new ideas. Need leader buy-in on activities? Consider the formation of a "green council" to help steer efforts.
Be Patient
Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your new and improved sustainable business. Don't take on too much too soon. Remember, you want to demonstrate the viability and value of your action plan. Early on, focus on the "low hanging fruit" -- those opportunities such as reducing waste and energy usage -- to score some early "wins". From there, you can focus on bigger, more complex things like greening your supply chain or manufacturing processes. Good luck!
With that, I thought I would pass along some tips for helping you form your own green team:
Make the Case for Greening Your Business
Saving the planet is great. Saving the planet AND driving value for your business is even better. Try building your business case and program around the "triple bottom line" of the Corporate Social Responsibility Model: people, planet, profit. Business doesn't have to operate in "value silos". Score bonus points if you can tie "green" or sustainable efforts to your business model, strategy, or value proposition in some way.
Create a Solid Plan
If you cannot demonstrate a clear action plan for achieving that triple bottom line your efforts will fall flat. Our annual plan is primarily comprised of two parts: Business Initiatives and Community Initiatives. The former allows us to identify and execute opportunities that drive business value (e.g., reduce electricity or paper usage); the latter enables us to connect with local non-profits with an environmental focus and help their efforts through volunteering.
Find a Champion
Otherwise known as getting buy-in from the top. Find someone senior in your organization who shares similar values to "sponsor" your efforts. This person can help forward your mission through public (and visible) support and the removal of organizational obstacles that might get in your way.
Measure, Analyze, Improve
Having solid numbers to drive the creation and ongoing execution of your action plan is invaluable. Take baseline measurements such as electricity usage, waste volume, and recycling rates to know where you are starting from. Then as you take steps to improve your performance, you can measure your impact. Regular measurement of your efforts can also help you identify ways to enhance your action plan along the way.
Benchmark and Network
More and more companies are embracing ways to make their business more sustainable. Learn from them what works and what doesn't. B Corporation, Climate Counts, and GreenBiz are excellent sites to start this process. If you find a few companies close to you, consider creating an ongoing discussion series to improve networking.
Be Inclusive
The more people in your company you can connect with who share the same values and enthusiasm for sustainable business, the better your chance of success. Consider creating a grassroots network of "green ambassadors" throughout your company to help spread the message, execute your action plan, and generate new ideas. Need leader buy-in on activities? Consider the formation of a "green council" to help steer efforts.
Be Patient
Rome wasn't built in a day and neither will your new and improved sustainable business. Don't take on too much too soon. Remember, you want to demonstrate the viability and value of your action plan. Early on, focus on the "low hanging fruit" -- those opportunities such as reducing waste and energy usage -- to score some early "wins". From there, you can focus on bigger, more complex things like greening your supply chain or manufacturing processes. Good luck!
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