David Van Der Haeghen

I will avoid sending 3 disposable cups to the landfill each day by using a reusable mug.

I will spend 15 minutes researching environmental justice and environmental racism concerns in my region, who is affected by them, and local initiatives to address these concerns.

I will spend 30 minutes learning about local or national energy issues that will be on the voting ballot this fall.

I will shop at a farmers market or food co-op to support local farmers and businesses. By doing so, I may be able to learn more about who produces the food I eat and goods I buy.

What suggestions do you have for NW Natural to save energy in the way we operate our facilities and our vehicles? Have you observed any energy wasting equipment or behaviors at work?

I will spend 30 minutes finding out where landfills and/or toxic waste sites are situated in my region and which communities are most impacted by these sites.

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning about water and air quality issues in my area, how they are impacting human and environmental health, and how I can help.

NW Natural DEI Council Action: Click on the link under "Learn More" to find out which tribal lands your homes resided on and share in the reflection question section the names of those tribal lands

Exercise is a great stress blaster! I will exercise for 45 minutes each day.

I will avoid sending up to .42 lbs (.19 kg) of food waste to the landfill each day by composting my food or learning how to.

I will connect with a local nonprofit, environmental or otherwise, and find out how I can get involved or become a member.

I will keep 3 disposable plastic bottles from entering the waste stream by using a reusable water bottle.

Plastic bags and small plastic pieces like straws are most likely to get swept into our waterways. I will keep 3 plastic straws out of the landfill and ocean each day by refusing straws or using my own glass/metal straw.

I will avoid wasting water while waiting for the shower or sink to heat up.

I will replace my lawn with a drought-tolerant landscape and save the water, money, and time I used to spend cutting the grass.

I will make sure I’m registered to vote. While I’m at it, I’ll sign up to help others register too!

I will use the resource links provided and spend 30 minutes learning about the native populations that lived in my area prior to colonization, and what I can do to support those that still exist.

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

I will calculate the carbon emissions associated with my household and consider how different lifestyle choices could reduce our carbon footprint and our impact on the environment.

I will spend at least 45 minutes researching and weighing my options to see if a hybrid or electric vehicle makes sense for my lifestyle.

I will spend at least 30 minutes finding out what local laws, policies, and practices keep people from voting in my community.

I will practice actively listening to a friend, family member, co-worker, acquaintance, or someone who I may disagree with in at least 2 conversations.

I will watch 2 documentaries about systemic racism to learn more about how it affects us and the planet.