Thursday, April 23, 2009

Earth Day Resolution

Yesterday as I drove through oodles of traffic I though about what I can do for the earth. I wanted something to comit to until at least next Earth Day. Something that I can add into my life without spending thousands of dollars. Something that didn't take hours a week.

Some of the things I currently do include: using homemade cleaners (50% of the time), making our own laundry detergent (98%), bringing bags to the grocery store (60%), catching water as it warms up for plants (79%), recycle (110%), repurpose (90%), drive fuel efficent cars (100%). I'm sure there's more, but that's what is coming to mind.

One area where I fail- using disposable plates/silverware/bowls at the office. I have the type of office where the center table has food at least once a week- causing plates and silverware to head to the landfil. When I actually bring my lunch I often forget forks, spoons, etc.

The solution: get a set of work plates to store in my desk. We have access to a sink, soap, and sponge so (other than laziness) there's no reason not to use regular plates/silverware instead of paper. I also have a drawer that is currently empty that can house things.

I'll let you know how it goes.

5 comments:

Lisa Nelsen-Woods said...

That's a great idea! I drink water out of a water glass I brought from home. Makes me wonder what some of the hype (other than possible spillage) is all about when people insist that I should be using a water bottle instead.

Cathy said...

great idea--every little bit helps. Yesterday I brought my own coffee cup into Starbucks--the person behind the counter acted weird about it, but it felt good to not throw a cup in the trash.

sara l said...

@CondoBlues- the hype is probably all about the difference.

@Cathy-that is on my longer term list of things. My problem is a love of drive thru's. It's really the only reason Starbucks wins over a local shop, all other things being equal. But I could do this for coffee shop meetings!

Courtney said...

i love that idea. i don't work but we do tailgating a lot, so i want to help green those, up cause none of my friends seem to care.

Greenbaby said...

I have the same problem at work! Luckily for the planet and my health, we rarely have treats in the staff room. When we do, however, I dive for them and then feel caloric and eco-regret afterwards. I shall have to invest in my own plate/dish/silverware stash for work and I'm sure I'll find just what I need at the local thrift store. Thanks for joining us this week for Thrifty Green Thursday!