As I look back over SEAC’s year I realize what a progressive and educational year it has been. We have hosted extraordinary speakers on topics covering building electrification, community power, regional water issues, net metering, environmental justice, blue carbon sequestration, zero waste campaigns and land use, sprawl and climate. We have joined coalitions and advocated for environmental justice, climate action plans and on regional transportation issues. We have kept our finger on the pulse of local environmental issues in the city and county with in-depth observer reports on the San Diego City Council Environment Committee and the County Board of Supervisors meetings. We have made Environmental Justice an area of emphasis and worked towards diversity, equity and inclusion in our committee and in our LWV San Diego as a whole.
So what is next for SEAC 2022? The agenda is long. Join us as we work to form a coalition to initiate a re-vote on The People’s Ordinance in the November 2022 election. Join us as we analyze the More Water Now 2022 ballot measure initiative (or Water Infrastructure Funding Act of 2022). Join us as we support SD-SEQUEL to propose an ordinance to the San Diego City Council for sustainable, equitable and quiet equipment in landscaping. Join us as we continue to explore and monitor regional water issues. Join us as we promote zero waste and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Join us as we prepare for Earth Fair 2022. Join us for our January 18th SEAC meeting when our guest speaker will be Carolyn Chase from Tree Watch San Diego who will discuss the urban canopy and how trees create cool zones and reduce heat islands.
And, what is next for us as individuals wanting to make an impact on a sustainable 2022? Include Sustainability in your New Year’s Resolutions! Challenge yourself for new ways to incorporate sustainability into your everyday life. Learn how to use the trolley and public transit system. If you are considering buying a new car, test out an electric one. If you are planning to purchase new kitchen equipment, research an induction stove. If you are considering purchasing a new washing machine, keep in mind a water-efficient front loader. Consider installing solar panels on your home, a renewable and green energy source. Purchase a zero emission leaf blower for gardening use at your home or place of business. Design meatless menus. Kick the plastic and disposable habit. Educate yourself on micro plastics.
What we do as individuals matters. Everyone has a role to play in addressing climate change. Rethink, Redesign, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Together we will continue to progress forward in 2022. Have a Happy and Sustainable New Year!
To join the SEAC email list, please email Ruth at seac@lwvsandiego.org.
Zero Waste Tips
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Recycle your undecorated Christmas tree. Put it in your green bin, use curbside recycling or drop it off at one of these Christmas Tree Drop-off Locations.
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Make Sustainability New Year’s Resolutions
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Recycle cans, bottles and jars in the blue bin. Make sure they are empty, clean, dry and loose.
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Avoid disposable cutlery. Bring your own mug, cup and cutlery to social gatherings.
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Establish meatless Mondays
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Wear a sweater, hat and warm socks inside the house and save on your heating bill
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String up a line for drying clothes
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Use a rake and a broom for cleaning walkways