The other day, I came across a magazine article articulating the disconnect between the science of climate change and environmental sustainability and our education system. Specifically, the Education Week article examined teachers’ low confidence levels when tackling sustainability-related topics in the classroom. “More so than their colleagues in other countries,[Read More…]
Author: Daniel Hiestand
Whether weathering the climate crisis or thriving in an uncertain political future, community is key
I have a friend who seems to know everyone in his Springfield neighborhood—and I mean really know. For at least a half dozen houses in either direction, he’s cultivated relationships in which he and his neighbors share everything from propane heaters for weathering winter power outages to impromptu Sunday night[Read More…]
Local nonprofit’s DIY workshops just the thing for this not-so-handy ‘handyperson’
I was very excited when I first heard about BRING’s Toolbox Tactics workshop series to help bolster DIY skills. The reason for this was twofold: (1) I own a historic home that keeps providing me with lots of repair opportunities (i.e., it’s a money pit), and (2) I have about[Read More…]
This month, try trading that steering wheel for something different
When was the last time you went on an errand without your car? When was the last time you traveled to a friend’s house or your place of work using a bus, bike, or your own body as the vehicle? Understandably, it may have been a long time. After all,[Read More…]
Do your finances match your sustainability values?
While recycling, bringing your own bags to the grocery store, composting, and ditching the car are all fantastic individual actions to fight climate change, perhaps the most potent way to effect long-lasting, significant transformation is with your wallet. Strangely enough, money — or a lack thereof — seems to be[Read More…]
Climate change and high food prices got you down? Turn to your kitchen
The statistics about food waste are genuinely staggering. Here are a few that always stick out to me. Between 30 to 40 % of food grown in the U.S. goes uneaten, and wasted food makes up nearly 20 % of Lane County’s garbage stream. • In Oregon, a family of[Read More…]
Three sustainable steps to upgrade your wardrobe
Have you ever heard of the term “fast fashion?” No, it doesn’t mean your T-shirt can win an Olympic sprint or your socks can claim victory in the next Indianapolis 500. Instead, as Merriam-Webster states, fast fashion is “an approach to the design, creation, and marketing of clothing fashions that[Read More…]
Ice storm illustrates county’s need for environmental, climate justice
Despite nearly a week without power, the recent ice storm made me realize how fortunate my family was. • Our friends took us in because we didn’t have a non-electric heat source. • I have a very supportive employer who allowed me to telework and paid time off so I[Read More…]
Nonprofit store provides region with deals on electronics
Taking the NextStep in your reuse journey A few months back, I was in the market for a new flatscreen TV. After all, there’s nothing better than snuggling up and watching a favorite movie on a dreary winter day. I wanted a state-of-the-art system that was “new” to me but[Read More…]
The best holiday gifts are often not found in stores
Growing up, I fondly remember receiving the Sears Great American Wish Book in the mail. Maybe some of you do, too. The glossy catalog came in the autumn and was filled with everything a kid (or adult) could want for the holidays. I remember one winter when I was around[Read More…]
