Archive for February 15th, 2010

National vs. Local Impact

Monday, February 15th, 2010

over reaching

 

pic from Bearman Cartoons

 

Some think the government’s response to the swine flu was an overreaction.  However, caution was better for preventing the worst, which might have meant death for many. 

 

While some think the climate change agenda is an overreaction, especially when Washington DC gets three feet of snow, it might just be that the unusual weather is due to the climate change’s effect on the jet stream. 

 

The federal government has begun making climate change initiatives a national focus and a number of foundations have begun to make it their local focus.  The interesting part about the term ”climate change” is that I find it to be more of a general description that a fair number of initiatives fall under.  It should be easy for every nonprofit to come up with a way to participate in making a DIFFERENCE toward climate change. 

 

You’re a nonprofit that can create a community program identifying uses of recycling materials and/or promoting participation in recycling. 

 

You’re a nonprofit that needs to weatherize your facility to reduce its energy costs.

 

You’re a nonprofit that can switch to a renewal energy source or less green gas energy sources.

 

You’re a nonprofit that has decided to locate your services near a central transportation hub.  This means you’re part of the smart growth initiative to be located within walking distance of a rail stop or bus stop.  When looking for such locations try to link individuals to your location by only having to take one ride to the stop.  If there are multiple connections they must be easy and convenient.

 

You’re a nonprofit that promotes urban farming that reduces green house gases by having more locally grown produce.  Hydroponics and greenhouses on roofs just might be the answer. 

Take time as a nonprofit to come up with your plan to participate.