Environmental Change—It's really time now!

Each day it seems we are given more evidence of the severity of the environmental crisis. For example, a report came out of the UN this past weekend about how the Glaciers are shrinking at record rates. This could prove to be catastrophic since it will effect the water levels of many of the world’s rivers.

“There are many canaries emerging in the climate change coal mine,” UN Environment Program’s executive director Achim Steiner said in a statement. “The glaciers are perhaps among those making the most noise and it is absolutely essential that everyone sits up and takes notice.”

Why are we—as individuals and as a country—so afraid to make the necessary changes to help save our earth? This passive inaction is noticeable in so many of us. Do we not take it seriously? Do we think its hype? Or are we just so pessimistic we think it's too far gone?

It’s time for us all to stop talking about going green and start acting green. Numerous scientists have told us it’s not too late. I heard Al Gore speak at the TED conference. His position was that “we all need to become active citizens in the democratic process.” Yes, it’s important to change light bulbs, and please do that at least, but it’s also important to change some laws. Sixty-eight percent of Americans believe that human activity is responsible for global warming. What is missing is the sense of urgency! To quote Al Gore again, "we need a hero generation. Instead, we have a culture of distraction. We need a sense of generational mission now."

There are solutions—putting a price on carbon is one. There are things we can all do. (A good place to start is by signing up for our going green tips.) Make a point to separate out your recycling and reuse as much as possible. Support companies that are doing innovative things to save or preserve the environment. We are very committed as a company to help you with your own changes, and we are also taking a stand for bigger changes in the world—in the environment.

A little change can make a huge different—and it all starts with us as individuals. As Buckminster Fuller said, “If the future of all human civilization depended on me, what would I do? How would I be?”