Question: I guess a very general question that I had was how to live more green. Are there tips that you to live a more green life? Thank you! Halstene
Answer: Damn — That’s a very broad question! I’ll assume that you’re a budding environmentalist overwhelmed by all the info out there, and simply looking for a place to start.
I suggest you begin your green journey by picking up a copy of The Consumer’s Guide to Effective Environmental Choices by the Union of Concerned Scientists — or at the very least, reading Umbra of Grist’s summary of the book, in which she recommends looking at these four areas:
1. Transport
2. Food
3. The heavy parts of home
4. Activism
Since I know you’re a USC student, number 3 may be out of your sphere of influence at the moment. But I suggest you start with transport, then move to 2 then 4 — by referring to the “Four eco-tips for the frugal student” I wrote specifically for Trojans.
You’ll notice that point 3 on that post directly addresses the transport isue, while points 1 and 2 address the food issue. As for activism, you’ll notice that all items I talked about have a “Get active” section, urging Trojans to go beyond changing their own personal habits to getting others involved in the environmental movement.
Best of luck — and thank you for working to green my alma mater :)
Image via ucs.convio.net
The Consumers Guide to Effective Environmental Choices is an excellent book that I also recommend to folks. Their top two recommendations are to 1) drive less [Joe's comment: drive never, if you live in LA or an urban center] and 2) eat low on the food chain – vegetarian, local.
I’d say, too, to get involved… check on groups active locally – whatever piques your interest – heal the bay, tree people, etc. – or on campus… Go and volunteer and see what folks are up to.
Comment by Joe Linton — December 7, 2008 @ 10:17 pm
Thank you, Siel! And Joe! Since you’ve come to SC, I’ve actually perused/stalked your blog and have gotten A LOT of great tips already. Thank you so much! I am very excited. I already have my own pair of collapsible choptsicks and carry it around with me. [I also picked up the fair trade wine from Trader Joes-have yet to try it though-saving for the holidays!]
Comment by Halstene — December 8, 2008 @ 12:00 pm
Good luck with saving the wine — I’m not v. good at that :P
Comment by Siel — December 8, 2008 @ 2:31 pm