Nutgraf

We all heart the planet, right? Keeps us warm, cool, lighted… er… protects us from the cold vacuum of space. It’s the only source of Skittles that I know of. Good stuff, all. So I wanted to highlight Bethesda Green, a local organization that’s doing some good and making some waves. Their roster of sponsors, members  and supporters is impressive, and I intend to harangue some of them for their thoughts here.

Dave Heffernan, Director of Communications at Bethesda Green, has a sweet gig, doing good work within walking distance of his home. These might be some of the perks you get from having 25 years of experience with nonprofits and consulting firms for the federal government (thanks, Dave’s official bio!), but it probably also helps that he’s super nice.

Dave was kind enough to answer a few questions and offer some advice to the next generation.

What’s the biggest thing coming up on Bethesda Green’s calendar would you like to point out here?

We have a Shred and Recycle Event at the Walt Whitman High School parking lot, Sunday, Nov. 15, 1-5 pm.  This is being organized with Montgomery County as part of a number of America Recycles Day activities.  People can bring up to 5 boxes of old bank statements and other personal item for shredding.  We’re also collecting donations of clean clothing, household items and furniture.

The GreenerLiving program is a series of workshops promoting a community effort to reduce energy usage and save money.  We currently have sessions around different topics scheduled Saturdays, 10-11:30 am at Bethesda Green, Nov. 7, Nov. 21, and Dec. 5.  We plan to repeat and expand the offerings in 2010.

What’s the number one daily life tip you’d give someone who wanted to live more responsibly?

This is really a subjective question.  I say each person needs to examine their own behavior first and start taking small steps toward improvement.  Do simple things, make them a habit, and move on from there.  For example, plan your driving so you combine errands.  Then, consider walking, biking or using public transportation as an alternative to always driving.  Buy less is a good tip, and buy eco-friendly.  Biggest impact?  Not sure, but if we all start taking steps to improve behavior, there’s no question the impact will be significant.

More philosophically, what do you want the next generation to know about how to treat the environment?

The next generation is ahead of the curve on a lot of these issues, compared with the general population.  The environment is a living organism in which humans exist symbiotically. Globally, our health as a species is tied to how well we maintain a clean, healthy environment.  We’ll go a long way toward improving the environment if we think of it this way.

Bonus round: What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received – not necessarily green-related?

Take every opportunity to expaned your network of contacts, friends, and colleagues.

Do you have tips for greener living? Or advice for real life in general?

It’s easy, it’s free and it’ll make you feel good.

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