Pine Spring 2010: Climate Change and You
Let us know if and how climate change has affected your life.
E-mail your thoughts to alumni@nau.edu, and we'll post them here.
I am not sure how climate change has directly affected my life, but in an effort to "go green" we have made some changes around our home and are much more aware of our behavior. For example, as our light bulbs need to be replaced, we are using energy efficient products; we use our washer/dryer during low peak hours; we ask the kids to make sure the water is turned off when brushing teeth and that lights are turned out as they leave rooms, regardless of how long they will be gone. All fairly small things, but a start and lifestyle changes we hope the kids carry into their adult lives.
~ Krista Perkins, '98
I try to maintain an awareness about my behaviors and habits, and how they impact the earth. I make small changes here and there with hopes they will have a positive impact and work to share this awareness and decision process with my children. Hopefully Earth-friendly habits become the norm for them!
~ Erin Bertelsen, '01
For me, the most dramatic visual I have had of climate change was when I had the opportunity to fly over glaciers in Alaska. The pilot explained the rate of decline of these glaciers now compared to hundreds of years ago, and to see that with my own eyes was unforgettable. As a result, I do what I can to minimize my impact by switching to energy efficient appliances, light bulbs, recycling, re-usable grocery bags, etc. I believe that every little change we can make can help.
~ Beth Bourget, '02