Hilton Head Monthly Magazine

Theodore Roosevelt argued that it is our responsibility to act and care for the environment, calling it “our duty to the whole, including the unborn generations.” It’s a tall order, but in the same way that a few dollars tucked away, or calories cut here and there can add up to a good-sized college fund or a smaller waistline, consistent small changes, over time, can have a tremendous cumulative impact on our planet and sustainable existence.

Creating sustainable existence is a journey that requires commitment; we all start at different places and move forward at different paces. Here are a few suggestions to help get you started in 2011, including explanations of “why” and “who benefits”. Cut out this table, put it on the fridge, and when you’re reaching for your morning coffee, pick one thing you can do that day. It’s a new year and the perfect time to begin your journey to sustainability – a 365-day opportunity. Every green step matters.

ACTION	REASONS	BENEFICIARIES
RECYCLE PAPER, and print on both sides whenever possible	• The average American uses more than748 lbs. of paper annually • Every recycled ton saves 17 trees and 7,000 gallons of water
BRING YOUR OWN MUGS to the office or coffee shop	• It is estimated that Americans used 23 billion paper coffee cups in 2010 • Eliminates waste, reduces carbon emissions
TAKE ALTERNATIVE TRANSPORTATION to work or school	• Cuts carbon emissions by 50-100% • Lightens wear and tear on roads
TURN OFF WATER WHILE BRUSHING YOUR TEETH	• The average person uses twice as much water as needed.
CHECK YOUR TIRE PRESSURE	• Reduces fuel consumption, fossil fuel dependency and carbon emissions • Can improve gas mileage by up to 3.3%
USE REUSABLE SHOPPING BAGS	• The average person uses 500 plastic bags each year • Single-use plastic bags are not biodegradable
BUY LOCAL AND ORGANIC produce and fabrics	• Protects soil and water quality, uses less energy and supports small farmers
BE SMART ABOUT ENERGY by turning off lights, unplugging electronics, weatherizing and adjusting thermostats	• The average American produces 40,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide annually • Reduces demand for fossil fuels, saves on electric bills

Teresa Wade is the principal of Sustainable Solutions, a local consulting firm that helps businesses understand and implement sustainability programs, and founder of Experience Green, a nonprofit that provides experiential sustainability education. She can be reached at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it .