No Impact for the New Year

Well folks, the whirlwind of wrapping paper and ribbons has finally settled into a calm, reflective anticipation of the new year. Sadly, its time to replace the gadgets and gizmos of the Christmas wish list with something a bit more practical: resolutions. As always, there are those that are eager to get things going early, such as a fellow blogger who has outlined some great resolutions in her blog entitled, Planning Forward for a Greener New Year . And then, there are the other great-minded, but procrastinatory, individuals that need a little motivation to get a move on. Luckily, the motivation is ready and waiting, and hopefully it will prove to be a tempting option for all.

If you've had the pleasure of keeping current with the content posted on this blog, you are well aware that we are firm advocates of all things sustainable. Most blogs are designed to communicate the importance of practicing a lifestyle that has little or no impact on our environment. Thus, you can imagine the pleasure felt upon stumbling across a project known as “No Impact Week”. This concept, is the extended effect of a movie entitled “No Impact Man”, the chronicles of an extraordinary attempt for an ordinary man to live an entire year without making any lifestyle choices that directly impact the environment. The principle of “No Impact Week” is simple, it requires participants to evaluate everyday actions, and determine how they can reduce any unnecessary effects that are a repercussion of each action. Each participant will receive a detailed “How To” manual which provides instructions for each of the seven days. Participants will be asked to complete tasks such as gathering and saving personal garbage throughout the day, then inspecting the garbage to see exactly what should be tossed and what can be reused. The manual suggest ideas such as carrying Tupperware, forks, or other reusable objects, along with you each day, to eliminate the need to create waste by using disposable items. Another great suggestion is to consider options such as creating a car share system with friends, family, or coworkers. Generally speaking, participants aren't asked to do anything outrageous or outlandish. These are simple changes that can easily prevent unnecessary impact on the environment, and reveal the small ways in which each of us can make a difference. What better way to start off the New Year? No Impact Week will begin on Saturday, January 2nd 2011, and continue as a week-long effort to say “NO!” to environmental impact. To receive more information or register for this event, visit the No Impact Project Website. Best wishes for a Happy New Year.