Kendra - Youngest Sister
"Tree Hugger"
I can't remember what first got me interested in learning about going green. The movement seemed to be always around me. In college I joined clubs that focused on aiding the environment. We volunteered for many activities, such as litter pick up and Earth Day projects. Now I am a special education teacher. I am trying to make my students aware of their actions and how even small changes can make a big difference. Here are the steps I have taken so far:
- Recycle- I use the town's service
- Hybrid- Prius
- Reusing- Giving away my unwanted materials and buying reused
- Composting- We are trying...my husband made his own composter out of chicken wire :}
- Unplugging Electronics- We plugged in all electronics into a power strip and turn them off at night and when we are not home
- Gardening- growing our own food, saves $ and trips to the store
- Trees- Planting trees in my lawn
- Butterfly garden- took a chuck of lawn for wildflowers instead of being mowed
- Bike/Walking- I walk or bike instead of jumping in the car to go a few blocks
- Water efficient toilet -1.7 gallons
- Light bulbs- changing them all over
- Sun tunnel- We added a sun tunnel in our windowless bathroom. It lights the room during the day, thus we don't have to turn on the lights.
- Cleaners- starting to buy environmentally safe cleaners (Method soaps and natural cleaners)
- Canvas bags- I am trying to remember to bring bags with me shopping, which I am very bad at remembering. IKEA bags are awesome for grocery shopping. I also recycle plastic bags at the store.
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Educated my students- entered an Earth Day contest
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Rain barrel - one for now
- Making my own cards and presents- Gave my niece a doll house made from a cardboard box for her birthday. I had tons of fun painting and making furniture out of smaller boxes.
Next Steps: More rain barrels, tankless water heater (need to save around $1,000), and vote at the next election.