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…]
Author: Daniel Hiestand
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…]
Celebrate your climate and sustainability wins
Much evidence shows the importance of celebrating small victories when undertaking big projects. Whether building a house or teaching a history course, acknowledging milestones on the way to completion can improve project participant morale, increase productivity, and nurture a sense of community. Our collective energy to address the climate crisis[Read More…]
Cottage Grove farmhouse deconstruction showcases sustainable practices
Over the past two months, Forrest Laiche, owner of Lane County-based Conscious Craft Construction, has been steadily deconstructing a dilapidated Cottage Grove farmhouse owned by Lane County near the Cottage Grove Transfer Station. Nail by nail, Laiche’s crew have worked to rescue as much as possible from the structure as[Read More…]
Back to class doesn’t need to result in lunchroom waste
A few months ago, I was lucky to meet a Springfield School District school cafeteria employee during a community event. I was handing out materials about preventing wasted food when she relayed what her school was doing to avoid wasted food. As a sustainability professional and Springfield taxpayer, I was[Read More…]
