Celebrating Earth Day, Alliance-Style

An appreciation for the Earth starts with environmental awareness and positive actions. That is the basic principle of Earth Day, and on its 40th anniversary, the Alliance took a hands-on approach to the celebration.

A Low-Impact Day at the Office

Fueled by an organic breakfast delivered to the Alliance's L.E.E.D.-certified office (two miles on foot), Alliance employees made a few minor changes to their daily routines in order to lower their collective energy-use.

Employees who typically drive to work made an effort to use public transportation, both for their commute and to make it to and from appointments. Printing was cut to a minimum, and recycled paper used when possible. Workstation lamps were sidelined in favor of natural lighting, and elevator trips were either done in carpools or not at all, as some employees braved the stairwell ascent and the added physical energy to offset the use of electricity.

Noticeably absent was the Alliance's coffee machine which, though it consumes relatively low energy, was turned off in favor of hot water and a French press. Understanding that complete abstention from coffee drinking is not an overnight transition, employees committed to drinking organic, fair-trade varieties.

Good for the Earth, Good for Us

Director of Communications Susan Shuckra make several adjustments in her daily routine. "I took the metro, carpooled on the elevator, used a reusable coffee mug and water glass, recycled any plastic materials I used, did not use a plastic bag for my lunch and took a hike in the woods to enjoy the trees and say thanks to Mama Earth." Others took the opportunity to get some workday exercise.

"I walked up 14 flights of stairs to our offices this morning," said Katie Landeros, Green Schools program associate. "I plan on walking down and up again during lunch," she added.

The pan-office effort went from D.C. to California, and included a special presentation from Policy Associate Tom Simchak. An ardent energy efficiency supporter both at work and at home, Tom shared his experience installing a power meter at his house. According to his monthly Pepco energy recap, his is among the lowest energy-consuming households in his Takoma Park neighborhood.

In the spirit of Earth Day, the Alliance is hoping its actions set an example for other offices and illustrate that energy efficiency is an attainable and essential goal for everyone.

Happy 40th Birthday, Earth Day

Have you seen the hot new music video, "EE Keeps You Warm at Night"? Written and recorded by Alliance staffers Carol Guest, Sally Larsen and Craig Schattner, the song commemorates the 40th anniversary of Earth Day with simple energy efficiency tips for a cleaner environment.

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