Ah January, the month where we resolve to improve ourselves by making resolutions that we optimistically hope to keep. What better time to think about what you can do to make 2007 more environmentally friendly? After several e-mails from readers I decided it was time to answer the question “What can I do?” So… here are a few things that will make you a better environmental steward this year. 

1. Recycle all you can. It really does make a difference and is a practical, simple way that you can help reduce the amount of garbage that we have to transport out of the park. Recycling Jasperites kept approximately 30 trailer truck loads out of the landfill in 2006. Less garbage = less carbon dioxide emissions for transportation and less methane produced in a landfill. Items that we recycle here in Jasper do get made into recycled products elsewhere that have less impact on the environment than manufacturing them from virgin materials. 

2. Trim your waistline! Did you know that there are many positive health benefits to eating organic food? That’s right organic food is not just for hippies or purists anymore. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency reports that over the past decade the organic food industry has increased in Canada 15 per cent each year. The general grocery buying public are gobbling up the goods. So what makes organic food especially good for you and for the environment? Certified organic food is grown without synthetic herbicides, pesticides, hormones, or genetically modified organisms (that makes it better for you.) The producers of organic products must meet standards that protect the health of land, air, water, animals, and wildlife (better for the earth). They must also adhere to strict packaging policies, meaning less garbage for you to throw away.

3. Reduce your greenhouse gas output. Leave the car at home and walk- sure it’s winter but the fresh air will do you good. Choosing to walk rather than drive will not only help you to achieve your 2007 personal exercise goals but it will save you money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. According to Natural Resources Canada if every driver of a light-duty vehicle in Canada stopped idling for just five minutes a day, collectively, we would save over 680 million liters of fuel per year and prevent more than 1.6 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions from entering the atmosphere! Carpooling is also a great way to save fuel and money- so next time you head to the ski hill be sure to share your ride. Make your home energy smart by screwing-in compact fluorescent light bulbs and by weatherproofing the windows and doors. Install energy efficient appliances and unplug things that aren’t in use. 

4. Explore your backyard. Spend more quality time with family and friends by actively and purposely working on improving relationships while enjoying nature. To achieve this goal you must set aside precious time. Outdoor activities will deepen your relationships and broaden your horizons by developing connections with the people you love in the natural environment that surrounds us. Check the local papers for community events and volunteering opportunities. Take advantage of all the environmental educational programs and opportunities that Jasper has to offer. Since this is Jasper National Park’s centennial year- your timing is just right to get out, be pro-active and get involved!

Please don’t be discouraged if other 2007 resolutions have already been put on the back burner, or forgotten. Wipe the slate clean and get ready to get back on track! Get inspired, take it slow but most of all keep it simple. It is never too late to start and even the simple things that you do can make a serious difference on your body, soul and the environment that we live in.