St. Philip's UMC Environmental Stewardship Ministry

That's all for now.

2011-10-18T20:54:00.000-07:00

This is the end of my environmental stewardship blog. I suspect my church readers are very few, and those who do read, well I'm guessing it's like preaching to the choir. There is a lot of information and links throughout this blog and I can't imagine that adding more would be that much more helpful. But, if someone else would like to pick it up, please feel free.

77. Question to Myself

2011-10-10T20:50:00.000-07:00

The experts that I trust are saying that global climate change is real, that most of it is caused by human activity, and that the effects could be very serious.

I have to ask myself, would I be disappointed if by some chance they all turn out to be wrong?

Then I answer myself--not nearly as disappointed as I would be if it turns out they are right, and I didn't do anything about it.

76. A Streaming Event

2011-09-12T13:24:00.000-07:00

For anyone interested coming on Sept. 14th:

http://climaterealityproject.org/

75. It's Risk Management When You Get Right Down to it

2011-09-02T11:06:00.000-07:00

This article was passed along to me by one of my professors:

//finance.yahoo.com/taxes/article/111827/why-fighting-climate-change-makes-sense

74. Scientific Theory and the Precautionary Principle

2011-08-28T09:55:00.000-07:00

I am currently taking my third environmental science course at Austin Community College, this one is entitled Environmental Geology. One of the reasons I have been taking these courses is so that I can share things I learn, in this blog for example, about a subject I have always been very interested in and therefore am highly motivated to learn more about. So here are some bits:

Scientific Theory: A theory is a strong scientific statement that the hypothesis supporting the theory is likely to be true but has not been proven conclusively. New evidence often disproves existing hypotheses or scientific theory; absolute proof of scientific theory is not possible.

The Precautionary Principle: The idea behind the principle is that when there exists a potentially serious environmental problem, scientific certainty is not required to take a precautionary approach. The precautionary principle was supported by the 1992 Rio Earth Summit on sustainable development.

Source: Introduction to Environmental Geology, Fifth Edition, Edward A. Keller

So, when someone says that the theory of human contribution to global climate change has not been proven, they are correct, but neither has any other scientific theory. Climate scientists will continue to test their hypotheses to try and find cracks in them. Models will continue to be refined. I doubt that any of them really want to believe that they are right in their consensus, but scientists are supposed to follow the data, like it or not. This process will continue and we need to stay tuned for further developments. In the meantime, I think we need to take their advice seriously as we would take a medical specialist's best advice if we have a health condition. It doesn't mean we shouldn't get other opinions, but trusting the experts is something we do on a regular basis anyway. Why should this situation be any different?

When there is so much consensus among climate scientists about human-caused climate change, I feel compelled to say that I think it is very irresponsible to call their findings "junk science" without backing that up with at least equally credible evidence, or to say that we should not do anything until the theory is "proven", as it never will be. It could very well be that a scientist will come along at some point with a new discovery, other scientists will pick up on it and try to reproduce the results, and the theory will be updated. That is how the process works. That's part of what makes it not junk science. Until then, we have to base our decisions on the best knowledge we currently have, from relatively objective sources that are respected in the scientific community as a whole, and keep an open mind to what new discoveries may come along. What is it we've been hearing a lot lately? Hope and pray for the best, but prepare for the worst. Better safe than sorry. That pretty much sums up the Precautionary Principle.

73. NASA Climate Change Videos

2011-07-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

Relatively non-technical videos from NASA. Put Climate Change in the search field. I'm not an expert so I look to these folks for the latest. They're the ones with the satellites.

www.nasa.gov/multimedia/videogallery/index.html

72. In the News

2011-06-22T06:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.businessweek.com/ap/financialnews/D9NVQ3600.htm

71. Aquarius - A New Age in Climate Observation

2011-05-19T06:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2011/may/HQ_11-150_Aquarius.html

70. Interfaith Environmental Network Event

2011-04-26T12:33:00.000-07:00

I will be out of town on this day, but wanted to pass the information along. If anyone attends, please let me know.

http://interfaithenvironment.org/styled-2/page26/page26.html?utm_source=Austin+Interfaith+Environmental+Network+List&utm_campaign=32d89b1761-May_3rd_Speaker_Symposium4_26_2011&utm_medium=email

69. "All Things Came into Being Through Him"

2011-04-21T15:49:00.000-07:00

John 1:3

The man whose death we commemorate on Good Friday, often used nature images to get across his messages:

"Consider the lilies of the field..."
"I am the vine, and you are the branches..."
"Unless the grain of wheat fall to the earth and die, it cannot bear fruit..."

68. Affluenza

2011-04-14T20:26:00.000-07:00

From the Investopedia website:

What Does Affluenza Mean?
A social condition arising from the desire to be more wealthy, successful or to "keep up with the Joneses". Affluenza is symptomatic of a culture that holds up financial success as one of the highest achievements. People said to be affected by affluenza typically find that the very economic success they have been so vigorously chasing ends up leaving them feeling unfulfilled, and wishing for yet more wealth.

Investopedia explains Affluenza
Affluenza is arguably present in the United States, where the culture is one that prides itself on possessions and financial success. Mainstream media outlets, such as television broadcasts, tend to show how pervasive the idea has become.

While affluenza cannot be quantified easily, those wishing to avoid the condition should look to be the master of, not a slave to, the things they have or wish to obtain.

_____

Ron and I were having a conversation about economics, something he understands much better than I do, and the conversation came around to this idea. I was trying to explain my cynical view that if we didn't value having stuff so much, that we wouldn't need bigger and bigger houses, and maybe people wouldn't have tried to get into houses they really couldn't afford, and so on and so on. Maybe. And what if our values as a culture were to change so that the intangible became more important than the tangible? Would that make everything better? If competitiveness in all individuals were to theoretically come down a notch or two all at the same time, would that change in values "trickle up" to the top of the biggest companies; would the economy be healthier? (I tend to think in these unrealistic simplistic terms, whereas Ron understands the complexities of these things much better than I do.)

My cynicism also leads me to bemoan the fact that while we complain about the high prices of things, we also complain when labor is shipped overseas to make those things cheaper. We fail to understand the cause and effect relationship between our demands, and the continued efforts of businesses to meet our demands, feeding the vicious cycle. It takes a strong, confident company with vision to be able to choose to sacrifice some profit initially for the sake of keeping its workforce local on principal and/or because it sees that as the best way to serve its customers, ultimately increasing profit. The more we demand that kind of practice, the more it will happen, but we may have to pay more for it. The same goes for other business practices that we deem to be more responsible in some way. It's called voting with our dollars. We have the power to influence the market in the way we want to see it go.

That led to a discussion of the natural human desire to continue economic growth indefinitely, to continue improving the quality of life, and for countries coming out of poverty to keep on growing economically. Putting a ceiling on growth is not something that we are inclined to want to do. It doesn't seem natural to restrain ourselves in that way. Plus, to the individual, who is not constantly aware of resource limitations, population growth and environmental degradation, in their everyday life, it may be hard to imagine a ceiling even exists, or should exist.

Being the idealist that I am, I still cannot help wondering if injecting a little moderation into some point in the vicious cycle would take the edge off the crisis. Ron and I discussed the idea of "self-correction", the idea that the markets tend to correct themselves over time, sometimes painfully, as people learn and adapt. But history tells us that some societies have self-corrected by totally collapsing, before they could learn and adapt. So we know it does happen. Just as the body can only heal itself up to a point, so a society may only be able to count on natural balancing up to a point.

Our faith teaches us that there is more to life than what we see here, that a better life awaits us. But what do we do while we are here? I guess we could accept the fate of collapse as the natural order of things. Or we could at least go down fighting to keep history from repeating itself. Whatever we don't know, we can know this, that the earth is finite, that population growth is continuing, that resources, even renewable ones are being depleted, and that because of this, future wars may likely be over those resources. In fact some already are.

I'm certainly not an expert on this, but maybe the global nature of many of our problems is exactly what could help us. If we are all faced with the same basic issues, and we are all dependent on each other, the motivation for a concerted effort might be all the greater, and the pool of knowledge and innovation all the deeper to draw from. We can hope that that is the case, and we can try to insure that it is, can't we?

67. NASA Video Gallery

2011-03-25T13:06:00.000-07:00

The NASA website has some very nice short videos. Click on the "Earth" topic and you can find many videos that have to do with the environmental research that NASA does with the help of some of its satellites. Unfortunately, the launch of the Glory satellite recently failed. The information concerning what the Glory mission hopes to accomplish is very interesting, though. Here's hoping the launch will be attempted again.

http://www.nasa.gov/multimedia/videogallery/index.html

66. St. Patrick

2011-03-17T19:57:00.000-07:00

Apparently, Patrick was a soft-sell kind of evangelist. He cared about the people he preached to, and used their own beliefs and traditions to teach them Christian beliefs and ways, even blending the two. For example the Celtic cross may actually have come from a combination of the Christian cross symbol and a pagan symbol.

Legend has it that Patrick used a shamrock to help some of the native Irish understand the concept of the Trinity.

These are two characteristics of Patrick that I have always admired, his respect for the people and culture that he was with, and the fact that he used nature to help others understand what God was like. (When you are taught by Irish nuns and priests for eight years, you can't help but absorb a little about Ireland's favorite saint.)

So on St. Patrick's Day I celebrate Patrick's approach to spreading the love of Jesus by loving others the way Jesus would love them, and respecting their world views as they have developed in their own context. And I celebrate also that a lot can be understood about God from observing nature in all its wonderful aspects. In fact, for me personally, that has always been the best way, and I pray that all human beings will have the opportunity to spend time in natural surroundings often, so that we can all learn more and more about our loving Creator, and be able to pass it on.

65. Your Grandmother's Home Economics and More

2011-03-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

The International Federation for Home Economics or IFHE, is the only worldwide organization for the field of Home Economics and Consumer Studies. It has been in existence since 1908, and has consultative status with the United Nations and with the Council of Europe.

In its current Position Statement, the IFHE states:

"The content (disciplinary bases) from which studies of home economics draw is dependent upon the context, but might include: food, nutrition and health; textiles and clothing; shelter and housing; consumerism and consumer science; household management; design and technology; food science and hospitality; human development and family studies; education and community services and much more. The capacity to draw from such disciplinary diversity is a strength of the profession, allowing for the development of specific interpretations of the field, as relevant to the context. This disciplinary diversity coupled with the aim of achieving optimal and sustainable living means that home economics has the potential to be influential in all sectors of society by intervening and transforming political, social, cultural, ecological, economic and technological systems, at glocal [global and local] levels. This is driven by the ethics of the profession, based on the values of caring, sharing, justice, responsibility, communicating, reflection and visionary foresight." [Highlighting is mine.]

Combining their 4-year theme of Sustainable Development, and the UN International Year of Youth, IFHE will be supporting World Home Economics Day on March 21, 2011.

To read more about IFHE, their position statement, and World Home Economics Day, go to their website: www.ifhe.org.

64. Human Rights

2011-01-20T15:19:00.000-08:00

Fifty years ago today a call came out from our newly inaugurated president: "ask not what your country can do for you - ask what you can do for your country". That statement has been re-iterated in various ways throughout the years and by various administrations, but the meaning is basically the same.

Consider also a Christian idea: We are all parts of the same Body, each with our own gifts and inclinations. We all have a role to play in bringing about the Kingdom of God.

Another rather famous part of that speech 50 years ago was:

"Let the word go forth from this time and place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans--born in this century, tempered by war, disciplined by a hard and bitter peace, proud of our ancient heritage--and unwilling to witness or permit the slow undoing of those human rights to which this nation has always been committed, and to which we are committed today at home and around the world."

Consider another Christian idea: What you do to the least of my brothers, you do to me. ~ Jesus

In the USA we believe that the basic rights every human being has are God-given, not given at the whim of a human ruler. They are inalienable, not able to be taken away. And we have an expectation that the rest of the world should have that same respect for basic human rights. It's interesting that on the same day as the anniversary of JFK's inaugural address, the issue of human rights has been in the news surrounding the visit of the Chinese president.

The more I learn about conservation and sustainability, the more I discover the complexity of environmental issues, and how an activity in one part of the world reverberates in unintended ways in another part. Overuse of resources because of greed usually affects those the most who can least afford to adapt. It is the poorest and the weakest who stand to lose the most from environmental degradation. It is people like us who will be most able to adapt to whatever ill effects may result from lack of resource stewardship, at least for awhile. It truly becomes a human rights matter when we see the whole picture. And it is getting harder and harder to ignore that big picture, as technology brings the world to us more and more easily.

Conservation is not just about keeping the planet pretty. It's also about preserving natural resources for humans now, and in the future. Figuring out how best to do that requires understanding the complexities of natural cycles, economic processes here and abroad, and cultural factors. It's about, for example, how conventional agricultural techniques here, can affect the economy of a much less developed nation that we trade with, for better or for worse. It really can be very complicated, as local farmers have to compete with the cheaper foods that we can sell their country, because of our subsidized system. Not that I understand it completely, but it certainly isn't as simple as I used to think. Or, maybe a country that we trade with doesn't have as strict environmental regulations as we do, and we have to monitor what comes into our country from theirs. None of us on this planet exists in a vacuum. A good description is a web, where one touch causes the whole web to vibrate.

Getting back to what we can do for our country - the list of course is endless, and obviously depends on our individual gifts and inclinations. From the point of view of environmental stewardship, though, I can think of a few ideas:

Taking care of what we all have in common: our air, our water, our land, our wildlife. We all depend on them for survival. Even the tiny bee, can make a significant difference in our ability to thrive. (Think crop pollination.)

Supporting our national parks (a truly American idea), state parks, wildlife preserves and the like.

Thinking about the consequences of our lifestyles as they pertain to the use of resources, and the health of our shared environment. Sometimes it's a balancing act.

None of us can do everything. We can all do a little, and in this big nation, that can add up to a lot. And the more we can do in the way of preventing problems, the less crisis intervention we, or someone else in the world may need later. The term "environmental refugees" is one that refers to a concern in such a crisis scenario.

Human rights issues, then, are not too far from our own back doors, and I, for one, am of the opinion that what we do for our country, can create waves of benefit to other people around the world. This is a truth that we can even less afford to ignore now, than we could in 1961.

63. "Hey, Mr. Green" Column

2011-01-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

"Hey, Mr. Green" is a Sierra Club column that answers questions sent in concerning environmental stewardship issues. Thought I would share. There are several questions addressed in this segment.

http://sierraclub.typepad.com/mrgreen/

62. NOTICE

2011-01-07T09:46:00.000-08:00

I will not be picking up the recycled items at church anymore, at least for awhile, due to some back trouble. If anyone would like to take this job over, let me or Anne Marie know. It involves picking up items that are in recycle bins in the four buildings once a week and taking them to the nearest recycling center or to your house for weekly pickup.

61. Lessons Learned from Space Shuttles and Manatees

2010-11-08T08:23:00.000-08:00

We went to Florida on Oct. 30th with the hope of being able to see Discovery's last launch on Nov. 1st. We booked a hotel for about a week to allow for the almost inevitable delays that happen with Shuttle launches. After several such delays, Discovery was go for launch on Friday morning, Nov. 5th, our last day there. Fueling began. Then a leak was detected. Launch scrubbed, and postponed at least until Monday. Then, launch postponed until Nov. 30th at the earliest.

We knew delays were a distinct possibility, so we hadn't made any other reservations for side trips and such, trying to leave the week as open as possible. Thanks to the wonders of wireless technology we were able to check NASA's site every morning, and plan our day accordingly.

We had to find things to do. We found out that in Florida there is no shortage of options. But we had done many of the theme parks around Orlando already, so we chose some more natural attractions that featured wildlife tours and park interpreters. And we went to an island that, because of its location has some wonderful beaches for shell-hunting, gorgeous water birds and beautiful sunsets.

Surely one of the highlights of our stay was being introduced to the gentle manatees. We encountered them in two different park sanctuaries where they are protected. Having never met them in their natural habitat, we were smitten. And what we learned about them stayed with us.

We learned they are naturally curious about humans, and like to approach people. They are gentle, docile and seem to have no enemies other than the propellers of motorized water vehicles, and the hunters in some parts of the world who still depend on them for food. They are vegetarian, so fish swim around them without fear. They have a digestive system adapted to a purely vegetarian diet, in contrast to our own. Even though they only eat sea lettuce, they grow to be many hundreds of pounds. If they don't have to go far to find food or they are fed regularly, they get much bigger. They take care of their own. We were told a story in one park about a blind manatee who was regularly escorted by two others to where it could find food.

We took away some food for thought, and here is some of it:

Be gentle, and patient. Do as little harm as possible.

We can gain weight on almost anything if we eat enough of it. It's all about the exercise. (Yes, I took note.)

Worrying is overrated.

Observe speed limits on land and in water. Big, motorized vehicles can maim or kill innocents.

Take care of those who need a little extra guidance.

Clean water is really important.

Be sociable.

Be curious.

Everyone is graceful in water.

Sailors at sea for a long time have really good imaginations. ;-)

So, our trip to Florida was not a loss after all. We came away with some discoveries of our own. And we really do want all our astronauts to be as safe as possible, so NASA, take your time; we can be patient.

60. DiscoveryNews Video

2010-10-27T13:21:00.000-07:00

http://news.discovery.com/videos/news-monitoring-climate-change.html

59. Convention on Biological Diversity

2010-10-17T18:56:00.000-07:00

http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/10/17/biodiversity.un.summit.briefing/index.html?eref=mrss_igoogle_world

58. Video from National Academies

2010-10-14T15:19:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxaWVlzgkX4&utm_medium=etmail&utm_source=The%20National%20Academies&utm_campaign=ACC+Update+21

57. Future Event

2010-07-08T18:10:00.000-07:00

Passing this along from Interfaith Environmental Network:

http://www.350.org/people/faith

56. Song for the Times

2010-07-01T16:09:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vHN9RUzEti0

55. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Biodiversity Conservation Actions - Learn More

2010-06-28T10:10:00.000-07:00

National Park Service, www.nps.gov
Texas Parks and Wildlife Dept, www.tpwd.state.tx.us
International Union for the Conservation of Nature, www.iucn.org
National Wildlife Federation certification, www.nwf.org/backyard
Sierra Club, www.sierraclub.org
National Audubon Society, www.audubon.org
Saving God's Green Earth: Rediscovering the Church's Responsibility to Environmental Stewardship, by Jason Chatraw and Tri Robinson, shows the biblical mandate for environmental stewardship and how it will change the world around us.
Values at Sea, Ethics for the Marine Environment, by James G. Kilgo, an interdisciplinary group of scholars cover an array of ethical issues and policy matters such as valuation of marine life, aquaculture, oil spills, and species protection.
Diet for a Small Planet, by Frances Moorre Lappe, the extraordinary bestselling book that taught America the social and personal significance of a new way of eating.
How to Successfully Become a Vegetarian, by Rudy Hadisentosa, www.veggie123.com
Native and Adapted Landscape Plants, by the City of Austin and the Texas Cooperative Extension, www.ci.austin.tx.us/growgreen/pg_pdfs.htm, and at local nurseries.

54. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions - Learn More

2010-06-28T09:52:00.000-07:00

Pedernales Electric Cooperative, 888-554-4432, www.pec.coop
Austin Energy, 512-494-9400, www.austinenergy.com
A New Climate for Theology: God, the World, and Global Warming, by Sallie McFaque, a leading theologian who analyzes the root problems behind climate change and proposes a relational, eco-friendly notion of what it means to be human.
Serve God, Save the Planet, A Christian Call to Action, by J. Matthew Sleeth, is a deeply personal book with far-reaching ramifications for all those who take their devotion to God seriously.
Consultants: Green This Life, www.greenthislife.com; Green Life Eco-Consulting, www.greenlifeaustin.com.
Energy: Use Less, Save More, a Chelsea Green Guide with tips for the home.
Energy Star program, www.energystar.gov
Shop online for efficiency items at Texas Interfaith Power and Light, www.txipl.org (enter coupon 'shopipl' for 10% off).

53. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Resource Efficiency Actions - Learn More

2010-06-27T12:26:00.000-07:00

Austin Energy Green Building program, www.austinenergy.com
Energy Star program, www.energystar.gov
Shop online for efficiency items at Texas Interfaith Power and Light, www.txipl.org (enter coupon 'shopipl' for 10% off).
Texas Manual on Rainwater Harvesting, http://www.twdb.state.tx.us/publications/reports/RainwaterHarvestingManual_3rdedition.pdf
Caring for Creation in Your Own Backyard, by Loren and Mary Ruth Wilkinson, declares it's time Christians took a biblical position on environmental issues in this wonderfully creative and practical book filled with simple things you can do.
Natural Capitalism, by Paul Hawken and Amory and Hunter Lovins, shows how leading-edge companies are practicing "a new type of industrialism" that is more efficient and profitable while saving the environment and creating jobs.
Consultants: Green Life Eco-Consulting, www.greenlifeaustin.com; Home Energy Solutions, www.myhomeenergysolutions.com
Water: Use Less-Save More, a Chelsea Green Guide with tips for home and garden.

52. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Natural and Organic Actions - Learn More

2010-06-27T12:08:00.000-07:00

The Creation: An Appeal to Save Life on Earth, by E.O. Wilson, who proposes and historic partnership between scientests and religious leaders to preserve Earth's biodiversity.
Austin Household Hazardous Waste Facility, www.ci.austin.tx.us/sws/residential_hazardous_waste.htm. Disposal services for Austin and Travis county residents.
Williamson County Recycling (and nearby counties), 869-7287, www.pa-jer.com/HHW/HHW.html. A private company which charges by the pound.
Guide to Less Toxic Products, www.lesstoxicguide.ca
Skin Deep Database, www.cosmeticsdatabase.com
The Natural Gardener, Austin, TX, www.naturalgardeneraustin.com
Natural cleaners available at Eco-Products, www.ecoproducts.com, and many local stores.

51. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Waste Reduction Actions - Learn More

2010-06-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Learn how to start curbside recycling at www.bethany-umc.org/321746.ihtml
Love God, Heal Earth: 21 Leading Religious Voices Speak Out on Our Sacred Duty to Protect the Environment, by the Rev Canon Sally G. Bingham, where foremost religious leaders from diverse faith communities respond to the most controversial question of our time: Can we save the earth?
Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things, by William McDonough and Michael Braungart, a manifesto on designing cost-effective, environmentally sound products.
Learn about ocean litter at Algalita, www.algalita.org.
Indoor composters and other waste reduction products at Nature Mill, www.naturemill.com.
Other recycling centers: Austin Hazardous Waste Facility (Travis county residents only), www.ci.austin.tx.us/sws/residential_hazardous_waste.htm; Williamson county Recycling (and nearby counties), 869-7287, www.pa-jer.com/HHW/HHW.html (a private company which charges by the pound); Ecology Action to recycle beyond just curbside items, www.ecology-action.org
Recycled and biodegradable tableware from Eco-Products, www.ecoproducts.com
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: An Easy Household Guide, a Chelsea Green Guide.
Composting: An easy Household Guide, a Chelsea Green Guide.

50. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Biodiversity Conservation Actions - Stretch

2010-06-27T11:20:00.000-07:00

o Rehab Habitat. Replace trees, grasses and other habitat destroyed in building your house or business. Replace non native landscaping planted on your property.

o Certify Habitat. Create a wildlife habitat certified by the National Wildlife Federation at your home, ranch, business or place of worship.

o Live Densely. Seek higher density housing for your next home to reduce demand on the environment.

o Go Veg. Become a vegetarian. Eliminate all types of meat from your diet, which is resource intensive to produce and very stressful on many parts of the environment.

o Hire a Consultant. Every natural area is different. Create or rebuild your ecosystem with the help of a native plant and wildlife professional.

49. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions - Stretch

2010-06-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

o Buy Renewable. Purchase 100% renewable power from your power company.

o Stay Home. Skip the commute and work from home occasionally.

o Increase MPG. Buy a new or used fuel-efficient vehicle.

o Upgrade Appliances. Replace older appliances with Energy Star units. The power company offers rebates for some models.

o Go Carbon Neutral. Seek out certified carbon neutral products and companies.

o Dry Solar. Dry clothes outdoors occasionally instead of using a gas or electric dryer.

o Mow Clean. Switch from a gas-powered lawn mower to a reel push mower.

o Go Solar. Use solar energy to create electricity or heat water for your home or business.

o Get Audited. An energy audit can identify efficiency investments which can save the most money and increase home value.

o Hire a Consultant. Professionals can sort out the variables of your unique situation.

48. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Resource Efficiency Actions - Stretch

2010-06-27T10:46:00.000-07:00

o Xeriscape. Landscape with native, low-water plants.

o Mulch. A thick ground covering protects roots, reduces evaporation and saves water.

o Collect Rainwater. Once installed, free water is available year-round.

o Upgrade Appliances. Replace older appliances with Energy Star units. Many utility companies, and the IRS, offer financial incentives to reduce the cost.

o Increase MPG. Buy a new or used fuel-efficient vehicle.

o Stay Home. Skip the commute and work from home occasionally.

o Weatherize Home. To reduce energy waste: seal around doors, outlets and windows; increase attic insulation and other thermal barriers; ventilate attic.

o Hire a Consultant. Professionals can sort out the variables for your unique situation, maximizing your benefits.

47. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Natural and Organic Actions - Stretch

2010-06-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

o Research Cosmetics. Use the Skin Deep database to evaluate potential toxicity in your personal care products.

o Organic Beauty. Purchase personal care products made only with certified organically grown ingredients. Google "organic body care" for product lists.

o Wear Organic. Purchase clothing and products made from organically-grown cotton. Purchase items made from "transitional" cotton to encourage growers' move to organics.

o Grow Organic. Start or convert your own vegetable or herb garden to organic.

o Don't Dump. Safely dispose of paints, cleaners, pesticides, pool chemicals, oil, antifreeze, TV's and other hazardous wastes at a hazardous waste facility to prevent chemicals from polluting the environment.

o Don't Stick with Nonstick. Stop cooking with pans coated with a nonstick surface.

o Goodbye Plastics. Stop purchasing plastic (and Styrofoam) containers, utensils and wrap for cooking, storing or reheating food. Go with glass.

o Go Carpet-Free. Use carpet-free flooring in your home or business to reduce VOC's.

46. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Waste Reducton Actions - Stretch

2010-06-27T10:17:00.000-07:00

o Compost. Turn your yard and food waste into healthy soil for your yard and garden. Convenient indoor compost appliances are also now available.

o Repair. Repair old items or purchase used ones instead of buying new.

o Don't Dump. Safely dispose of paints, cleaners, pesticides, pool chemicals, oil, antifreeze, TV's and other hazardous wastes at a hazardous waste facility.

o Shop Resale. Shop at resale stores or online at CraigsList.org.

o Pass It On. Start and maintain a recycling program at your places of work, worship, or recreation.

o Pass It Over. Stop purchasing plastic products as they never biodegrade.

45. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Biodiversity Conservation Actions - Grow

2010-06-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

o Buy In-Season. Purchase local and in-season produce to decrease demand for agricultural land in other climates, which is often cleared of its biodiversity.

o Go Native. Use only native plants and trees in new landscaping.

o Nurture Nature. Create a mini-sanctuary for birds, butterflies or other wildlife by providing food, water and habitat. Use native trees, flowers, grasses or other plants.

o Eat Less Beef. Beef production requires large amounts of agricultural land, which can created at the expense of biodiversity.

o Reduce CO2. Drive less and use less electricity to reduce CO2 emissions which can increase global temperatures. Warmer temps destroy some species and their habitat.

o Decrease Toxicity. Use natural fertilizers, pesticides, cleaners and other products to eliminate substances toxic to flora and fauna.

44. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions - Grow

2010-06-27T09:49:00.000-07:00

o Drive Together. Share rides or use public transportation.

o Shop Local. Purchase local produce to reduce long-range transportation of food.

o Buy Recycled. Many recycled products require much less energy to produce.

o Control Temperature. Raise indoor temperature in the summer and lower it in the winter using programmable thermostats and fans. Set water heater at 120 degrees F or less.

o Cut the Power. Many electronics and chargers continue to use electricity when 'off'. To cut the power completely, use a powere strip and then switch off the strip.

o Use Timers. Put a timer on an electric water heater and set it to turn off when not needed.

o Weatherize Homes. To reduce energy waste: seal around doors, outlets and windows; increase attic insulation and other thermal barriers; ventilate attic.

o Plant Trees. Trees absorb CO2 to grow strong and help produce healthy soils.

43. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Resource Efficiency Actions - Grow

2010-06-26T15:00:00.000-07:00

o Replace Fixtures. Install low flow shower heads (2 GPM) and faucet aerators (1.5 GPM in bathrooms, 2 GPM in kitchen)

o Eat Local. Purchase local produce to reduce long distance transportation of food.

o Buy Recycled. Buy paper and other products made from recycled materials.

o Use Washables. Use washable dinnerware instead of paper and plastic disposables.

o Control Air Temperature. Install and use a programmable thermostat.

o Control Water Temperature. Reduce water heater temperature to 120 degrees F.

o Drive Together. Share rides or use public transportation.

42. Quote

2010-06-16T19:31:00.001-07:00

"If we were logical, the future would be bleak, indeed. But we are more than logical. We are human beings, and we have faith, and we have hope, and we can work."
-- Jacques Yves Cousteau

41. NWF Oil Spill Update

2010-06-15T12:04:00.001-07:00

http://www.nwf.org/News-and-Magazines/Media-Center/News-by-Topic/Wildlife/2010/06-15-10-NWF-Naturalist-Reports-Oil-Spill-Ground-Zero.aspx

40. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Natural and Organic Actions - Grow

2010-06-14T14:49:00.000-07:00

o Go low VOC*. Use low- or no-VOC paints, stains, adhesives and sealers. Look for products with less than 50 to 150 grams/liter VOC (depending on type), or for Green Seal** Certification.

o Fertilize Naturally. Use natural or organic fertilizers, such as the local Lady Bug brand. Availability of similar products is increasing at chain stores such as Home Depot.

o Wash and reuse. Reduce use of Styrofoam and other plastic disposables by washing and reusing non-disposable items.

o Control pests naturally. Use natural pest deterrents, or employ a natural pest control company to control fire ants, fleas and other pests as much as possible.

o Buy Biodegradables. Choose biodegradable items such as disposable plates and dinnerware that break down quickly, when convenience is necessary.

o Dispose Safely. For free, safe disposal options: Radio Shack, Home Depot and others accept rechargeable batteries; IKEA and Home Depot accept compact fluorescent lights.

*http://www.epa.gov/iaq/voc.html
**http://www.greenseal.org/

39. Aiding the Stewardship Efforts

2010-06-11T08:24:00.001-07:00

http://www.nwf.org/Volunteer/Find-Opportunities/Gulf-Coast-Surveillance/Surveillance-Support.aspx

38. More on the Gulf Oil Spill and Wildlife

2010-06-09T13:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.nwf.org/News-and-Magazines/National-Wildlife/Animals/Archives/2010/Oil-spill-species.aspx

37. World Environment Day - June 5th

2010-06-04T20:33:00.001-07:00

http://www.un.org/apps/news/story.asp?NewsID=34919&Cr=biodiversity&Cr1=

36. Newsweek Article - Another Pragmatic View

2010-06-04T19:55:00.000-07:00

I guess it's nice to know that some really smart people are working on this stuff:

http://www.newsweek.com/2010/05/29/these-problems-can-be-solved.html

35. NWF Video

2010-06-02T13:12:00.000-07:00

Nesting birds and oil - National Wildlife Federation video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfY_o95IFF4

34. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Effects of Oil on Wildlife and Habitat

2010-05-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

http://www.fws.gov/home/dhoilspill/pdfs/DHJICFWSOilImpactsWildlifeFactSheet.pdf

33. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Waste Reduction Actions - Grow

2010-05-26T19:03:00.000-07:00

o Buy Recycled. Purchase recycled paper products, printer cartridges, plastics and more.

o Better Bottles. When bottled water is needed, choose a reusable aluminum bottle.

o Donate. Donate computers, eye glasses, building materials, clothing, furniture and more to friends, family or charities.

o Buy Biodegradables. Choose biodegradable items such as disposable plates and dinnerware, made from plant and mineral materials, when convenience is necessary.

o Stop Junk. Register online with Direct Marketing Association to reduce your junk mail.

o Beyond Curbside Recycling. Carry items not accepted by curbside pickup to local recycle centers. The Round Rock Recycling Center is on Deepwood Drive. Ecology Action has a center at 9th and I35 in Austin that accepts everything that the Deepwood center does, plus glass and plastics up through #7.

32. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Biodiversity Conservation Actions - Start Here

2010-05-14T13:19:00.000-07:00

o Experience Nature. Visit parks and wildlife areas for low-impact recreation like camping, canoeing, swimming and birding. We take care of things we love.

o Seafood Stewardship. Purchase seafood certified by the Marine Stewardship Council or the Aquaculture Certification Council.

o Forest Stewardship. Purchase wooden products certified by the Forest Stewardship Council or The Rainforest Alliance.

o Trade Fairly. Purchase Fair Trade Certified products to assure both the environment and workers are treated justly.

o Donate. Support groups who plant trees, such as Heifer International. which helps nature remain healthy while also fighting poverty.

Next topics: the "Grow" challenge level in all five, coming in the weeks ahead.

31. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Greenhouse Reduction Actions - Start Here

2010-05-14T13:07:00.000-07:00

o Drive Less. Drive fewer miles by planning and consolidating trips.

o Drive Efficiently. Drive slower, maintain tire pressure and tune up vehicles.

o Flip Switches. Turn off lights, TV's and electronics when not in use.

o Light Efficiently. Change incandescent lights to compact fluorescent or LED bulbs.

o Adjust Pump. Seasonally adjust pool pump timer for minimum use. Turn off in cool months.

o Dry Naturally. Use 'air dry' in your dishwasher, or drying racks for hand-washed dishes.

Next topic: Biodiversity Conservation Actions

30. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Resource Efficiency Actions - Start Here

2010-05-13T20:49:00.000-07:00

o Drive less. Drive fewer miles by planning and consolidating trips.

o Drive efficiently. Drive slower, maintain tire pressure and tune up vehicles.

o Light Efficiently. Change incandescent lights to compact fluorescent or LED bulbs.

o Water Efficiently. Set sprinklers to water only the grass; minimize evaporation by watering at night or early morning.

o Read Online. Read material online instead of in print.

o Print Twice. Use both sides of paper before recycling.

o Use mugs. Use your own coffee cup at frequented places such as work, church or your commute.

o Shower Less. Well, not less frequently, but take shorter showers.

Next topic: Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions

29. About Feedback, Faith and Action

2010-05-12T23:50:00.000-07:00

In the discussion about the complex factors that interact to make climate, we often hear about "positive feedbacks" or "negative feedbacks". Here are my definitions:

Positive Feedback - an accelerated effect. An example is the melting of Arctic ice. Higher temperatures mean less ice, which means less reflective surface, which means more heat absorbed, which means even faster melting.

Negative Feedback - a stabilizing or reversing effect. One example is the effect of ocean acidity on some algae. Increased CO2 means more acidic oceans, which means more of certain algae that thrives in the acidic environment and happens to be very reflective, which means cooler temperatures.

(It's confusing, because positive feedback seems to have an undesirable result and negative feedback seems to have a desirable result.)

Because Climate happens as the result of the interaction of so many factors, there continue to be surprises in both types of feedback. As I understand it, climate modeling consists of pooling data from all the known factors to get a net result. Since these feedback surprises will most likely continue to be discovered, the improvement of the climate models will also continue. So far, the message has not drastically changed in the main of the scientific community. If anything, the warnings have become stronger. We can only hope and pray that nature has some big stabilizing surprises yet to be discovered that will balance things out. But I'm thinking, as the saying goes, "when you pray, move your feet."

28. An Ecopragmatist View

2010-05-12T21:43:00.000-07:00

I am currently reading the book "Whole Earth Discipline - An Ecopragmatist Manifesto" by Stewart Brand - an autographed copy, by the way, thanks to my little brother in California who attended a book signing at Google where he works. Those of you about my age may have heard of Brand's original book "The Whole Earth Catalog" which came out in 1968. Having taken the Outdoor Life Conservation Pledge as a child he continued his interest and trained as an ecologist as an adult. Given that he was a part of the whole San Francisco psychedelic scene and back-to-the-land movement of the late 60's, a lot of what he talks about in this newest book is surprising. My environmentalist views are being shaken up by his ideas already. Here is one paragraph from the first chapter:

"Of the tools that come to hand, this book will examine four that environmentalists have distrusted and now need to embrace, plus one we love that has to be scaled up. The unwelcome four are urbanization, nuclear power, biotechnology, and geoengineering. The familiar one is natural-system restoration, which may be better framed as mega-gardening--restoring Gaia's* health at every scale from local soil to the whole atmosphere."

That's a lot to chew on and I hope to be able to elaborate further as I get into it. Brand also likens ecosystems to infrastructure, a metaphor I had not run into before:

"A bridge is infrastructure, and so is the river under it. Both support our life, and both require maintenance, which has to be paid for somehow. Radio spectrum is infrastructure, and so is an intact ozone layer. Both support our life, and both require international agreements to avert a 'tragedy of the commons.'"

Not very poetic, but hey, it is a book about pragmatism.

*Gaia - the name of a hypothesis proposed by James Lovelock concerning the complex interacting nature of biological and physical components of the earth. In Greek mythology, Gaia was the primordial goddess of the earth.

27. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Natural and Organic Actions - Start Here

2010-05-11T09:45:00.000-07:00

o Fertilize Free. Leave grass clippings on your lawn to add natural nutrients and reduce the need for fertilizers.

o Less is Better. Follow directions carefully to avoid overuse of lawn and garden products.

o Recharge Batteries. Use rechargeable batteries instead of disposable.

o Nature Knows Best. Choose unscented, undyed and unbleached products.

o Eat Organic. Purchase certified organic foods. Start small and expand use over time. Look for the USDA Organic symbol.

o Clean Naturally. Use detergents and household cleaners made from natural and nontoxic ingredients, such as 7th Generation, Green Works and Ecos.

o Natural Beauty. Choose all natural cosmetics and personal care products, such as Tom's, Burt's Bees and Affordable Mineral Makeup.

For iPhone users, there is at least one APP for helping to find the "greenest" products.

Next topic: Resource Efficiency Actions

26. The Journey of Environmental Stewardship - Waste Reduction Actions - Start Here

2010-05-10T10:54:00.000-07:00

o Print Twice. Use both sides of paper for casual printing; use narrower margins.

o Mulch Grass. Mulch yard clippings as you mow.

o Recycle. Use curbside recycling.

o Dispose Less. Use more durable and washable items; use less paper, plastic and Styrofoam disposables.

o Use Mugs. Carry your own coffee cup at frequented places such as work, church or during your commute.

o Paper or Plastic? Neither. Choose your favorite reusable shopping bags.

o Choose Less. Select products with less packaging, such as bulk purchases.

o Read Online. Read material online instead of in print.

That last one is tough for me, because I love books and actually prefer to have reading material in my hands. So I am trying to use the library more and buy second hand books when possible.

Next topic: Natural and Organic Actions

25. Baby Steps

2010-05-10T10:40:00.000-07:00

The Environmental Stewardship Ministry at Bethany UMC has come up with some action plans for stewardship that gradually increase the challenge level. At the Green by Faith Event, I picked up their suggestion sheets and would like to share them in parts. Their overall plan is called "The Journey of Environmental Stewardship", and it covers the following topics:

* Waste Reduction Actions
* Natural and Organic Actions
* Resource Efficiency Actions
* Greenhouse Gas Reduction Actions
* Biodiversity Conservation Actions

Each of these topics is divided up into the following challenge levels:

1. Start Here
2. Grow
3. Stretch

Finally there is a "Learn More" list of resources.

Please feel free to discuss any of the suggested actions - problems, obstacles, questions, successes, elaborations, etc.

In the next post, I will take one topic and list the "Start here" actions.

24. Video Message from Jean-Michel Cousteau

2010-05-04T18:25:00.000-07:00

Many of you will recognize the name Cousteau. Jacques Cousteau was a noted ocean explorer who co-invented SCUBA and was famous also for his television special "The Undersea World of Jacques Cousteau". The torch of stewardship has been carried on by other members of the Cousteau family, including his son, Jean-Michel Cousteau:

http://www.oceanfutures.org/action/offshore-oil-drilling/video

23. Estuaries and Wetlands

2010-05-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of talk in the news about the possible impact of the Deepwater Horizon well leak on the estuaries and marshes of the gulf coast, especially in Louisiana. The impact could be both environmental and economical for the region. Not surprisingly, the two types of impact are often connected.

Estuaries and marshes are where nutrients collect for many plants and animals. They are nurseries for much of this life. What happens in these areas affects a whole food chain, which includes people, especially those whose livelihoods depend on the abundance of marine life.

Here are a few links to more information on estuaries and wetlands:

http://oceanservice.noaa.gov/education/kits/estuaries/welcome.html
http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/pdf/fun_val.pdf
http://www.epa.gov/owow/estuaries/kids/index.htm
http://www.billnye.com/episodes/pdf/episodeguide57.pdf

22. The State of Biodiversity

2010-04-29T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is sobering news because it ultimately affects all people:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science_and_environment/10092320.stm

21. Earth Day Event on Saturday at St. David's Round Rock

2010-04-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

St. David's Medical Center in Round Rock is having a community recycling event on Saturday, April 24th. Check out this link for details:

http://stdavids.com/connect-learn-interact/news/St-David-s-Round-Rock-Medical-Center-Hosts-Earth-Day-Event.aspx

20. Green By Faith Event

2010-04-16T08:35:00.000-07:00

Interfaith Environmental Network

Green by Faith

A time to celebrate and grow

our faith commitment to environmental care.

Sunday, April 25, 2010

2:00 PM to 5:00 PM

St. David’s Episcopal Church

301 East 8th Street
Austin, TX 78701

Interfaith Environmental Network (IEN) is thrilled to offer the community Green by Faith, a unique opportunity to worship and learn together how we may become more faithful stewards of our natural blessings.

A celebratory interfaith worship service will begin at 2:00 PM in the beautiful outdoor labyrinth just to the left of the St. David’s main entrance. This will be a wonderful time to come together as we use the 40^th anniversary of Earth Day to claim the common call of environmental stewardship. (The service will be held indoors in Bethell Hall in case of inclement weather.)

Immediately following the worship service will be a recessional into an Information Fair in Sumners’ Hall on the 3^rd floor, featuring a cornucopia of over 30 non-profit, governmental, faith-based, and commercial organizations committed to environmental stewardship. Learn about:

○ Organic food

○ Solar power

○ Protecting natural resources

○ Green building

○ Creating wildlife habitat

○ And So Much More…..

Click here for a complete list of our Info Fair partners.

The event is free and so is the nearby parking! Click here for more details or visit our website at www.interfaithenvironment.org. Questions? Email us at interfaithenvironment@gmail.com.

Please forward this note to others in your faith community who may wish to attend! All are welcome! We look forward to seeing you at Green by Faith.

Faithfully yours,

IEN Steering Committee:

Allen Cooper

Rabbi Steve Folberg

Chris Searles

Reverend Lou Snead

Tom Spencer

Pastor Wynn Stenftenagel

Kerry Stevens

Reverend Bo Townsend

Questions? - Contact Ann Martin - anna.ak.martin@gmail.com

19. Fish Eating

2010-04-08T08:42:00.000-07:00

We know that fish is very healthy for us, but we also know some fish is contaminated.

The Monterrey Bay Aquarium website has a section on safe and environmentally responsible recommendations for fish eating. For our part of the country here is its Best Choices list:

Arctic Char (farmed)
Barramundi (US farmed)
Catfish (US farmed)
Clams, Mussels, Oysters (farmed)
Cobia (US farmed)
Cod: Pacific (Alaska longline)+
Crab: Dungeness, Stone
Crayfish (US farmed)
Croaker: Atlantic*
Halibut: Pacific+
Lobster: Spiny (US)
Mackerel: King*, Spanish* (US)
Mahi Mahi (US Atlantic troll/pole)
Mullet: Striped
Salmon (Alaska wild)+
Scallops: Bay (farmed)
Striped Bass (farmed or wild*)
Tilapia (US farmed)
Trout: Rainbow (farmed)
Tuna: Albacore (US+ and BC, troll/pole)
Tuna: Skipjack (troll/pole)
Wreckfish

The site offers a printable pocket version for different parts of the country, and also explains its criteria for judging fish to be safe enough for consumption and harvested in responsible ways.

http://www.montereybayaquarium.org/cr/cr_seafoodwatch/sfw_recommendations.aspx

18. Green By Faith Event

2010-04-06T19:27:00.000-07:00

In coordination with Earth Day, the Interfaith Environmental Network of Austin is sponsoring an Interfaith Service and Informational Fair on April 25th, 2:00 - 5:00 pm, at St. David's Episcopal Church in Austin.

The IEN website has more details. Click on Geen By Faith:

www.interfaithenvironment.org

17. Backyard Wildlife Certification through NWF

2010-03-28T17:58:00.000-07:00

The National Wildlife Federation offers tips on making your backyard wildlife friendly:

http://www.nwf.org/gardenforwildlife/certify.cfm

Earth Hour - Earth Hour, the biggest climate awareness campaign ever!

2010-03-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

Earth Hour - Earth Hour, the biggest climate awareness campaign ever!

16. Life Cycles and Being Human

2010-03-26T14:54:00.000-07:00

There are lots of cycles in nature - water cycle, carbon cycle, nitrogen cycle, oxygen cycle, for example. There is birth and death, growth and decay. Life is sustained by the continuation of all these cycles. If one or more of these cycles is seriously interrupted, the sustainability of life is impaired or made impossible.

As humans we know we have a unique set of abilities in the whole spectrum of life. We construct, we create, we progress in knowledge and accomplishments. No other earthly creature does all that we do. No one can deny this. The works of humanity are beautiful and it is hard to imagine that we are not meant by our Creator to be creative too. We seem to be intended for taking from nature and doing great things with what we take.

So how do we reconcile nature's perfect balance with our tendency to upset that balance just by being human and doing what we seem to be created to do?

In my opinion, we do that by first, becoming aware of the cycles that keep our natural environment in balance; second by developing detailed knowledge about those cycles; and third, by imitating nature wherever possible. What do I mean by that last one?

I mean by cycling things back into our systems. Activities like recycling everything we possibly can, buying products made from recycled materials, putting organic materials back into the earth and buying second hand items when we need them, are examples of ways we can imitate and aid natural cycles. Beyond that, we can educate ourselves as to how human activities that benefit us might impair natural balances, even if we are not actively involved in them. Examples are certain agricultural, forestry or manufacturing practices that sometimes have serious unintended consequences.

We are not like other creatures in that, ideally, we do not just live to survive. We create, we engineer, we invent, we discover and learn, we take care of even our weakest members, we worship. Yet we are still dependent on our earthly surroundings for our sustenance. And because the natural cycles essentially do not change, we have to have a healthy respect for them if we want to continue to derive sustenance from our environment. We have the unique ability among God's creatures here on earth to make conscious choices and take deliberate actions. It takes a conscious effort in order to counterbalance the effects of taking from the earth what we need for our endeavors. God has given us humans more, and to whom more is given, more is expected.

15. Our Little Patches of Earth 2 - Composting

2010-03-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

I highly recommend composting as a way to recycle organic waste. Here is some information from EPA about composting and its benefits:
http://www.epa.gov/epawaste/conserve/rrr/greenscapes/pubs/compost-guide.pdf

Ron constructed a compost bin for me out of wood and screening, but a compost bin can be even simpler. Here's an example of one made from a trash can:
http://video.about.com/greenliving/Homemade-Compost-Bin.htm

In the video, she talks about adding paper to the bin. I have personally not tried this. Instead we recycle paper, but I do add a lot of dry leaves, which is good brown material. Also, I've seen another picture of a trash can compost bin with a bungee cord across the lid, to keep it from falling off while rolling.

Here is another cool site:
http://compostinstructions.com/

If you have another good method of composting, please share!

14. Our Little Patches of Earth 1

2010-03-04T15:29:00.000-08:00

Spring is coming in, and if you are like me you are getting the fever. The urge to get out and work in the dirt, planting things and sprucing up the yard and gardens always hits me hard this time of year. Over the years, Ron and I have worked on improving our methods to allow for minimal environmental impact. It's a work in progress, and one I enjoy thoroughly.

The Environmental Protection Agency has some information on lawn care that may be helpful. It's hard to imagine that what we do in our small corners can do any harm, but there are a whole lot of us, and together we can have a large impact on watersheds, the health of the soil and the state of our ecosystem in general. How can we honor our commitments to our homeowners associations, provide a pleasant environment for our families and still be good stewards? The EPA presents these suggestions:

http://www.epa.gov/oppfead1/Publications/lawncare.pdf

13. Upcoming Event at Unity Church of the Hills

2010-03-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

SAVE MONEY, SAVE THE PLANET

Join the EarthCare Circle at Unity Church of the Hills on the second Tuesday of the month for a seminar to broaden your horizons where energy is concerned. Susan Meredith, a sustainability educator, shares insights from her book, Beyond Light Bulbs: Lighting the Way to Smarter Energy Management. No doom and gloom at this seminar; only a focus on the solutions to the energy puzzle and an understanding of how we can use our own personal power and energy to move to a more sustainable energy future, while saving money in the process! Susan, an engineer and MBA, consults with corporations to improve efficiency and reduce waste. Her book will be available for purchase. Sign up at the Information Center at the Church, located at 9905 Anderson Mill Rd. For more information, see www.beyondlightbulbs.com or contact Anneliese Rosea at the Church, 335-4449.

Tuesday, March 9—7:00 to 8:30 p.m.—Love Offering

12. Holy Ground

2010-03-01T17:54:00.000-08:00

Earth's crammed with heaven,
And every common bush afire with God;
And only he who sees takes off his shoes;
The rest sit round it and pluck blackberries.

~ Elizabeth Barrett Browning

"...God called to him out of the bush, 'Moses, Moses!' And he said, "Here I am.' Then he said, "Come no closer! Remove the sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground.' "
Exodus 3:4-5, NRSV Bible

11. Earthrise

2010-02-28T10:35:00.000-08:00

NASA Image AS8-14-2383

The first view of the earth from space by humans - December 24, 1968, Apollo 8 mission.

The first words uttered were "Oh, my God!"

NASA had planned for the ship camera to snap thousands of images of the lunar surface. But the astronauts, who saw this view through a one foot square window, had a camera or two themselves, and took this photo.

Jim Lovell said, "The vast loneliness is awe-inspiring and it makes you realize just what you have back there on Earth." What followed was a reading from Genesis.

10. Common Root

2010-02-26T19:28:00.000-08:00

ecos, from the Greek oikos, meaning: house, household; root of the words ecology and economy.

Implications: interconnectedness, mutual dependence in the household or place

I learned this at the "God and the Green City" program that I attended today at Seminary of the Southwest in Austin.

More to come.

9. Upcoming Event at Southwestern University

2010-02-19T14:26:00.000-08:00

The 2010 Fleming Science Lecture Series “What does it cost to build a wall: The US-Mexico Border Fence” will explore the social, economic, environmental and ecological impacts of the US Secure Border
Initiative’s US-Mexico Border Fence project. The non-partisan Congressional Research Service has estimated the cost of building and maintaining the border fence for its expected 25-year useful life to be approximately $50 billion. Its effectiveness in deterring illegal immigration or securing our border in other respects has been questioned.

The first speaker in the series, Dr. Juan Hernandez, is the founder of the Center for US-Mexico Studies at The University of Texas at Dallas.

Dr. Hernandez’ presentation will be on Tuesday, February 23 from 4:00 – 5:00 pm in Olin 105. There will be a reception before the presentation outside the lecture hall beginning at 3:30 pm. The title of his talk is “The New American Pioneers: Hispanics 2010 and el Gran Debate on Immigration Reform”.

Please join us for this talk and for two other presentations on the environmental and ecological impacts of the border fence to be held in April. A special thank you to the SU chapter of Alpha Chi National Honor Society for helping organize this series.

8. Upcoming Event

2010-02-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

I plan to attend this event, so if anyone else is interested and wants to carpool, let me know.

Ann

GOD AND THE GREEN CITY, Friday, Feb. 26, 2-5P, Knapp Auditorium at the Seminary of the Southwest
          Former Austin Mayor Will Wynn presents the case for our moral obligation to vigorous action in the face of obvious climate change Friday afternoon, February 26, at Seminary of the Southwest, 502 E. 32nd Street.
          Wynn's talk - "God and the Green City” - will take place in the seminary's Knapp Auditorium from 2 – 5:00 p.m. Subtitled "Faith, Hope and Sustainability in an Age of Global Warming," the event is open to the public without charge.
          This event, a green gift to the Austin community from Seminary of the Southwest and its Center for Christian Ministry and Vocation (CCMV), is part of The Center After Hours series, educational offerings to the Austin community.
          Wynn's technical presentation (powerful photos, graphs/charts, video sequences, etc) is "based on the science regarding humanity's role in ‘global warming' or ‘climate change' and therefore what are we going to do about it? What is our moral obligation as individuals and communities to take action?" Wynn said.
          Seminary professors will offer a response to Wynn’s talk and a panel discussion moderated by seminary academic dean Alan Gregory.
          Visitors’ parking on the seminary campus is in a lot at the southeast corner of Duval and 32nd Street with entrance off 32nd.
          Two-time Austin mayor who championed numerous municipal environmental programs, Wynn is now a principal with LPB Energy Management, which helps large governmental and institutional clients measure, report and reduce energy costs and usage, improving their bottom line and environmental sustainability. Wynn chaired the U.S. Conference of Mayors' energy committee for five years and helped drive national debate on federal energy policy and climate protection.

7. Online Editorial

2010-02-14T17:57:00.000-08:00

Three members of the Interfaith Environmental Network (IEN) steering comittee submitted an editorial that appeared in the online version of the Austin American-Statesman:

http://www.statesman.com/opinion/cooper-folberg-snead-renewable-energy-plan-is-the-202761.html

Ann

6. Thoughts on the Climate Change Issue

2010-02-09T20:27:00.000-08:00

Is it serious? Is it human caused or natural? Is it even happening? Can we even know the answers? These are the questions that hover around the discussion about climate change, otherwise known as global warming, the climate crisis or climate destabilization.

The consensus in the mainstream scientific community is strong. (See the IPCC, NAS, AAAS, NASA, NOAA and EPA websites to name a few.) But the consensus is not unanimous, even among climatologists. It may never be. Skepticism is critical for the advancement of knowledge; good scientists welcome it. They never reach absolute certainty; they just get as close to it as they can. The more holes that get shot in their conclusions, the more corrections they can add.

The more I look into the question, the more I realize I am out of my league and definitely out of my area of expertise. Science journal articles are written by scientists for scientists. Trying to get through one, without the background, is a little like trying to interpret some books of the Bible, without the guidance of a scripture scholar. What is a lay person to do? Speaking only for myself, I have settled on a few conclusions that I would like to share, for whatever they are worth.

1. Climate science is a complicated field. Many factors come into play. It's OK to leave it to the experts to keep working on it. I do not need to participate in the debate just to prove how little I know.

2. It is a good idea to stay informed. This is still a volatile issue and new reports and updates are continuing to come out. Since I am not a scientist, I go to literature that interprets the scientists' findings for non-scientists. Websites of large scientific organizations that have reputations to protect are often good for this, and periodicals that are as objective as possible. I like Scientific American, Discover and National Geographic for example.

3. Don't just listen to politicians. No matter how well-studied they are, they are probably not scientists, and it's really hard to get past that underlying agenda thing. Not that scientists are all pure at heart either, but if they work for organizations that are known for their accuracy and objectivity, their credibility is high, at least in my book.

4. Common sense does not necessarily apply to this issue. It is too complicated. Remember Copernicus and Galileo. Common sense of their time said that the sun orbited the earth. And yet...

5. As far as voting and trying to influence public policy - that's a tough one, and very personal to each individual. This is another good reason to stay informed and to lean on credible sources. (You decide which ones.) I've seen the whole thing compared to risk management, a pragmatic way to deal with the issue, with all its economic, health and social implications (for example, Greg Craven does so in his book What's the Worst That Could Happen?).

6. Scientists are human. Don't expect absolute certainty. They don't expect that of themselves, and a lot of their predictions are based on modeling, predicting the future based on collected data. Modeling methods are always being refined.

7. Finally, it was very liberating to be able to give up the need to know all the answers. There are a host of other reasons that environmental stewardship is necessary and good. We don't need to know the answers to the tough questions in order to know that we have a moral responsibility to take care of our earthly home. Engaging in wise conservation practices that benefit the public good and that of future generations is an approach that is tried and true, and always advisable. So, my feeling is, let's get on with it, and as far as the climate issues, stay tuned with an open mind.

Ann

5. Let's Get it Started in Here...

2010-02-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

What does "environmental stewardship" mean to you? Does it mean pure conservation or does it mean keeping a balance between the conservation and use of resources? Is there a time and place for both?

Similarly, what does "sustainability" mean to you, sustaining a lifestyle, or sustaining the ability to survive, or sustaining the biosphere (all of life)? What is a "sustainable lifestyle"?

Does our definition mean something different from what it means to someone in a place where most people are struggling to survive? Is it alright that it would take more than 5 earths' worth of resources to give everyone in the world the kind of lifestyle that we have here in the U.S.? How do we reconcile that fact?

"Less is more"? or "To whom more is given more will be expected"?

If you have a factual question about environmental stewardship, who would your authorities be? In other words, to whom do you assign the most credibility?

Comment on any or all of these points, and let's get some helpful exchange going!

Ann

4. UMC Theology of Environmental Stewardship and Prayer

2010-01-25T12:36:00.001-08:00

UMC Theology of Environmental Stewardship:
http://www.umc-gbcs.org/site/c.frLJK2PKLqF/b.3712925/k.28DD/182160_I_The_Natural_World/apps/nl/newsletter.asp

Our Social Creed:
http://archives.umc.org/interior.asp?mid=1836

3. Link to IEN Theology Page

2010-01-18T17:12:00.000-08:00

http://www.interfaithenvironment.org/page6/page6.html

2. The Theology

2010-01-01T08:11:00.000-08:00

The IEN is in the process of trying to collect theological background for environmental stewardship to include in its website. The request has gone out for input to all members of the IEN Education team. So I am asking anyone out there at St. Philip's to post what you know about the theological basis in the United Methodist faith. Post it on the blog and with our pastors' approval I will pass it on. FYI, here is the IEN website:

http://www.interfaithenvironment.org/index.html

Ann Martin

1. Introduction to the St. Philip's Environmental Stewardship Blog

2010-01-01T07:57:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, St. Philip's!

In November I attended a gathering of the Interfaith Environmental Network (IEN), an Austin area group representing different faith communities. The purpose of this group is to come up with actions that can be taken within congregations in the area of environmental stewardship. Thank you to Dr. Dale for alerting me to this event.

I am a member of the Education Team of the IEN. This sub-group is headed up by Kerry Stevens, formerly of St. Philip's and now of Bethany UMC. As a thought to how I could help, I suggested to Dr. Dale that I could start a blog for our church. He approved the idea, and so here we go!

I would like this blog to be a place where information and ideas can be shared, by anyone in the congregation. I hope questions can be answered too. Anyone can chime in, as long as they do so respectfully. I will be managing the blog and I will be relying on our pastors to help us to discern correct theology and scripture interpretation, as is compatible with United Methodist Christian beliefs.

My name is Ann Martin, and I can be reached at anna.ak.martin@gmail.com, or at 246-6240.