The Five Re’s ~ February 2008
Over the course of this next year, the footprint will take a closer look at our “Five Re’s”. This month we are focusing on Reducing, one of our ”Five Re’s”. 
When we look around, practically everything can be reduced, and more importantly the outcome of these reductions will be positive for our planet. Starting down the road to reducing our carbon footprint is made easier when we do it together.
Reducing our footprint. What comes to mind? Reducing your energy usage, water consumption, and amount of waste generated are just some of the ways to make reductions. These reductions, and others will help reduce our fossil fuel usage and cut our carbon emissions.
Reduce…your footprint
For most people, having a baseline will provide the guidance needed to make positive changes in your life. Afterall, do you really know how your energy usage compares to that of the average American?
A good first step on the road to reduction is to calculate your carbon footprint. There are many different sites available. One place to start may be the Global Footprint Network. This site provides easy to understand information and is good for those who are just begining this journey. Their Earth Day Footprint Quiz will ask you questions about where you live, your food, goods, shelter, and mobility footprints. Once you are done with the quiz, it will calculate your Ecological Footprint. By clicking on the “Take Action” button, a new screen will appear to give you simple steps that you can take to get started. There is a “goal sheet” to fill out and calculate your reduction progress if you meet these goals.
Recycle Reduction!
Reduce the amount of your recycling. Sound strange? Recycling is one thing, but by continuing to purchase pre-packaged, processed foods, we are not reducing our dependance on fossil fuels. Think of the energy it takes to make plastic water bottles and styrofoam containers. Think of the energy it takes to transport goods and food thousands of miles to our grocery stores.
Challenge your family to eat locally and sustainably. Choose fruits and veggies from locally produced, sustainable sources. Eliminate pre-packaged, processed foods from your diet. Reduce the amount of meat your family eats each week.
Reuse & Repurpose…..the 3-day rule!
Before tossing something into the garbage, set it aside. Apply the 3 day rule and ask the following: Can this item be used again? Can this item, or part of it, be used for something else? Would someone else be able to use this item?
Reusing and repurposing things in our home will reduce the amount of waste your household generates. Also, by reusing items you will purchase less. Network with your neighbors to find additional uses for some things. For example, a neighbor knew that I was expanding my garden and flower beds this coming season. They have a lot of unused patio block and brick and offered it to me. Instead of disposing of this block, I will be reusing it in my yard this coming year.
Rethink…Wants vs. needs
Reducing our footprint starts with attitude or mindset. Making a comittment for lasting changes is only the first step on this journey. What are the areas in which you are most able to make significant changes? In what ways would you be willing to adjust your lifestyle in order to accomplish your goals? Do you really want to do something or do you really need to?
At the heart of this is examining your wants versus your needs. In today’s throw away, instant gratification society, we rarely take the time to think about what we want versus what we truely need. Once you make the comittment to reducing, you will find that you need less and less. Think about how this can apply to all aspects of reducing, whether it be utility savings, reducing your dependance on gasoline, or reducing consumer purchases.