Earth Day

To whom it may concern,

Earth Day is always a time to take a moment and think about your impact on the planet. Yet so much of this nation is cursed with an out of sight out of mind mentality. While die-hard environmentalists are stereotyped as radical, tree-hugging hippies, one's commitment to living in harmony with the earth's ecosystem seems more like a good idea than a derogatory label. On this Earth Day, everyone should take a practical step forward to reduce their ecological footprint. Instead of buying bottled water, buy a canteen and refill it. Instead of relying of plastic or even paper bags when you shop, bring your own reusable bags. If you have the space, start a bee hive, compost bin, or recycling program in your office or residential building. Or just simply start walking and biking more. While the government can do much to provide the services and facilities to promote good stewardship, it is up to the individual to participate. With these simple steps in mind, how will the federal government seek to alter this nation's individual and collective behavior in terms of the environment, natural resources, and sustainability?

GUNNAR HAND, AICP