Resources / Ripples & Wipeouts

This new year’s eve, look for a blue moon, a rather rare occurrence that hasn’t happened on December 31st since 1990.  A blue moon occurs when there are two full moons in a single month.  The second of these full moons is the “blue” one.  To paraphrase Janis Joplin, we had dem ol’ kozmic economic blues throughout 2009, so we’re glad to see the year go.  Let’s hope that the blue moon on the last day of 09 signifies the end of blueness and the beginning of something better—green would be nice.  Imagine how the world could change if we all practiced just one green behavior in 2010. 

For instance, when you buy moisturizer, check the label to ensure that it is made with plant-based ingredients rather than petroleum products.  Turn down your thermostat just one degree and save 320 pounds of greenhouse gases from going into the atmosphere.  Better yet, throw on an extra blanket while you sleep and turn the heat down another degree or two.  And you can increase your positive impact even more by making sure that blanket is made from breathable, natural fibers like cotton or wool, rather than polyester.

Remember that plastics are made from petroleum products, so cut down on them whenever possible.  One good way to do that is to avoid bottled water and drink good, old tap water instead.  In fact, up to 40% of bottled water started out as tap water anyway!  And while you’re saving the planet you’ll be saving money too. 

National Geographic has an excellent website called The Green Guide for Everyday Living.  Check it out for more tips on how to make 2010 a greener year.