Green resolutions for a Living Planet

MAKE OUTDOOR TIME A PRIORITY
“At least once each month, I’ll spend a day outdoors with my family—snowshoeing, hiking, biking, kayaking, or just walking in the woods or on the beach. It can be a challenge to set aside this time, given my kids’ sports and all of our other weekend commitments (not to mention West Coast winter weather), but I know that it’s worth it. Exploring the outdoors—even within earshot of the city—helps me recharge and reminds me why I do the work I do. More importantly, I know that deepening our children’s connection to the amazing world around them is the best hope for the future of our planet,” Darcy Dobell, vice-president, Pacific Conservation
“Spend more time cross-country skiing this winter. It’s a health and green resolution because we [haven’t had very much] snow yet, which is pretty scary,” Martin von Mirbach, director, Arctic Program
“Take my four year-old son to the creek in our neighbourhood once a week (or so) to teach him how aquatic ecosystems function, and how important it is to protect the world’s most precious resource—fresh water,” Tony Maas, director, Fresh Water program
GREEN YOUR GARDEN and BUY FOOD LOCALLY
“Increase the amount of [space] in my garden for homegrown (organic, healthy) vegetables by 25 per cent,” Pete Ewins, senior officer, species, Canadian Arctic Program
“Become more of a locavore. It’s easy to buy fine, local produce and products in the summer; during the winter is more challenging. But locally produced food is available for those willing to shop for it. When I do have a choice, I will support local farmers and producers, get fresher food and reduce the carbon footprint of hauling our victuals from California and Peru,” Rob Powell, director, Mackenzie River Basin
“Eat more local food—it’s healthier, fresher, and produces less carbon emissions—and more fish that is certified and comes from sustainable sources,” Joshua Laughren, director, Climate and Energy
Now, I need to decide what my green new year resolution will be. What’s yours?