A Brief Explanation of SustainabiliTy
Sustainability Day gives the world the opportunity to become more familiar with the topic and come together to learn what we can do to promote sustainability. Here at RoadRunner, we do our best to live out our values, so we've put together a helpful guide on how you can make a difference on Sustainability Day. Continue reading to learn more about the history of sustainability and what you can do to get involved!
In 1969, the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) introduced the idea of sustainable development because air quality, water quality, and other environmental problems were a concern for congress at the time. With this in mind, NEPA addressed the concern and defined sustainable development as such: “to create and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony, and fulfill the social, economic, and other requirements of present and future generations of Americans” (Read more about NEPA here). As a result, the policy insists that Federal Agencies consider environmental effects before making any permanent actions.
What Role Does Recycling Play In Sustainability?
Recycling is an important component to maintaining a sustainable environment. We recycle so future generations have the energy and resources they need to sustain a happy and healthy planet. Also, recycling promotes economic and social sustainability in addition to environmental sustainability. It takes less energy to recycle items than it does to create them brand new, and it brings people together who share similar values.
The Foundation of Sustainability Day
Sustainability Day was created to remind the community of the importance of caring for the environment and the steps to do so. Currently, on the last Wednesday of every October, schools, companies and organizations have dedicated the day to sustainable living.
Sustainable Business
Businesses have dedicated part of the day teaching employees about what is recyclable in their office. Not only is this beneficial to the environment, but it helps your company save money! Some companies pledge to use double-sided printer paper, buy recycled paper and stationary and use natural sunlight and ventilation for the day. Many companies develop these habits for the long run after they realize how easy it is to work sustainably!
Anyone can participate. You don’t need to be a part of a college campus or company to get involved on Sustainability Day!
How to get involved on your own
- Donate the clothes you haven’t worn in months
- Start a composting program
- Ride your bike instead of driving your car
- Take shorter showers
- Donate items you no longer need
- RECYCLE!
- Unplug the devices you aren't using
- Turn off your lights in vacant rooms
- Grow your own food
- Use reusable shopping bags
- Turn off the water when you're brushing your teeth
- Opt-out to junk mail
- Car-pool
- Use a reusable water bottle
- Clean up any litter you see
- Go paperless
Campus Activities
Campuses across the country are dedicating Sustainability Day to educating students and faculty.
Popular activities on campus include:
- Sustainability Wellness Walks
- Composting Education
- Planting Trees
- Distributing Refillable Coffee Cups
- Campus Clean Up
The list goes on! There are many things you can do to live sustainably everyday. If you want some more ideas, reach out to one of dedicated team members to help you! You can also look up sustainable activities that are going on in your area.
Are you planning on getting involved this Sustainability Day? We'd love to hear from you. Comment your plans or how you've participated in the past!
