Making the choice to live a greener lifestyle can be a rewarding decision. It not only opens doors to new experiences, but can offer a sense of fulfillment in knowing your choices are contributing to a healthier community and planet. For some, simple lifestyle changes may not feel like enough of a commitment. So how can one do more?
Get involved
Join a local environmental group.
- The Durham Chapter of the Sierra Club actively advocates for:
- A safe and healthy community in which to live.
- Smart energy solutions to create green jobs and combat global climate change.
- Protection of America's parks and wilderness areas.
- The Eno River Association works to:
- Conserve and protect the natural, cultural and historical resources of the Eno River basin.
- Engage in advocacy for the protection of the river and the environmentally responsible development of our community, especially those lands nearest to the river and her tributaries.
Contribute to local green initiatives
People often forget the importance of "voting with their dollars". Encourage green initiatives in your local community by purchasing locally grown foods, locally made arts and crafts, and frequenting establishments that are committed to a sustainable community.
- Join a local MeetUp group. These groups help people with similar interests to network which helps spread the word throughout their local communities.
- Visit businesses that are committed to using local resources in their business practices. Fullsteam Brewery, 726 Rigsbee Ave, uses locally grown sweet potatoes, parsnips, and mulberries in it's brews. Fullsteam was also mentioned in Cooking Light magazine.
- Contribute to NC GreenPower. The goal of NC GreenPower is to supplement the state’s existing power supply with more green energy – electricity generated from renewable energy sources like the sun, wind and organic matter.
Contact your local legislator
Contacting your local legislators can do a world of good. These representatives need to know where the communities they represent stand on the issues that are most important to them. Do you know who your legislators are for Durham County?
House: Larry Hall (29), Paul Luebke (30), Henry Michaux (31), Winkie Wilkins (55)
Senate: Bob Atwater (18), Floyd McKissick (20)
It is most important to remember that we, as consumers, neighbors and members of the community, have the ability to make an impact using the very thing our country was built on, freedom. We have the freedom to make decisions that benefit our lives, communities and our planet.
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