A “Green” Twist for Lent
February 17, 2010
In different way, all faiths emphasize the spirit of sacrifice. This is particularly so for Christian's during the Lenten season. This year, Stonehill's Environmental Stewardship Committee (ESC) is encouraging all members of the College community to explore green ways of making changes and sacrifices for the good of the environment.
Using a Carbon Fast list developed by the Archdiocese of Washington, the ESC has created a day-by-day series of actions that anyone can take to improve the environment and reduce waste.
Click here to download a pdf version (Adobe Acrobat required) of the Lenten Carbon Fast Calendar or, review the daily list of activities below.
February
Thursday, the 18th- Turn down your thermostat by at least one degree. Aim for 68 degrees during the day and 60 degrees at night. Program your thermostat if you can.
Friday, the 19th- Go meat-free today. Christians have been eating less meat during Lent for generations. Choosing meat-free meals is one of the most powerful things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint.
Saturday, the 20th- Make one of your journeys more environmentally friendly today. Could you combine two trips? Carpool rather than driving solo? Bike or walk, or take bus or subway, instead of driving?
Sunday, the 21st- Remember your baptism today, and the power of water. Try to conserve: Leave a bucket in the shower or kitchen sink, and collect "grey water" to water the plants.
Monday, the 22nd- Check windows and doors for drafts with a ribbon or feather. If it flutters, make or buy a draft dodger, or seal leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.
Tuesday, the 23rd- If you're going to be away from your computer, tv, etc. for over an hour, turn it off as you leave the room. Even on an "energy-saver" setting, more energy is wasted when it's on than if you really turn it off.
Wednesday, the 24th- Be aware of your hot water use today. Turn off the water while scrubbing dishes. Take a shower instead of a bath, and try to take a shower that lasts half as long as usual.
Thursday, the 25th- Let your dishwasher breathe. Run the dishwasher only with a full load, and skip the energy-intensive drying cycle by choosing the "air-dry" option; or just open the door overnight.
Friday, the 26th- Look to purchase locally-grown food today. Consider joining a community-supported agriculture (CSA) group that delivers local produce (localharvest.org)
Saturday, the 27th- Plan ahead to bring reusable bags with you to get groceries today. If you already use reusable grocery bags, purchase a set of reusable produce bags for fruits and veggies. (ecobags.com)
Sunday, the 28th- Run your washing machine only with full loads. Turn the knob on your washing machine to "warm/cold" or "cold/cold", and leave it there.
March>>>