Dear Editor, 

Almost every day in the news, I read or hear of yet another climate disaster. But what about solutions?

Wouldn’t it be great if news outlets and media helped us to do that by sharing a simple Environmental Action of the Day?

For example:

• Don’t allow your car to idle

• Avoid using drive-throughs

• Have a no-drive days every week

• Shop and bank locally and divest from big banks that support oil and gas

• Turn down the heat

• Turn off lights when you leave a room

• Minimize single-use plastics

• Bring your own cup to your coffee shop

• Use a reusable water bottle

• Strive for zero waste.

There are SO many actions we can take. They may be small changes but can add up to make a big difference.

We also need to hear from our elected officials and “green” organizations about every citizen’s simple actions.

Switching to renewable energies, transition to regenerative agriculture practices, and pass legislation such as Build Back Better, the Green New Deal, and a carbon pricing bill, are really important. Please urge your Congressional representative to support the Energy Innovation and Carbon Dividend Act.

However, these things take time -- time we don’t have. Every citizen needs to put energy into becoming environmentally educated and being part of the solution.

I think Colorado Governor Polis and President Biden missed a huge opportunity to reach millions of households when they gave speeches for the Marshall Fire press conference which aired on television in January of 2022. They spoke at length on the many climate disasters that are increasing but not much about a solution.

I urge our elected officials to use such media opportunities and email communications to their constituents to educate our citizens and get them involved to create a healthier and more sustainable future for us all.

MOST PEOPLE ARE NOT AWARE OF THE MANY SIMPLE SOLUTIONS - THEY NEED TO HEAR ABOUT THEM FROM YOU!

I believe what the EPA says:

“Over 40% of our greenhouse gases come from the way products are extracted, produced, transported, used, and even disposed of. Striving for Zero Waste is one of the quickest and easiest ways to address climate change and build healthy communities”

I also agree with Bill McKibben when he said: “We’re under attack from climate change — and our only hope is to mobilize like we did in WWII.”.

Again thank you for all you do and your time here. We can make this happen!

YOU ARE A PART OF THE SOLUTION!!!

Laurie Dameron

Peak to Peak