A Greener New Year

Posted by Shirley Siluk Gregory Dec 28, 2006

Looking ahead to the New Year, I've come up with a few wishes I'd love to see come true in 2007. I hope, in the coming year, that I see:

Government leaders at all levels all over the world finding the will to start taking immediate action against global warming and for a greater reliance on renewable energy;

The elimination of government policies -- farm subsidies, import tariffs, corporate tax breaks -- the result in processed and junk foods being cheaper and more widely available than healthful, natural and unprocessed foods;

A popular culture that starts valuing responsible living and conservation over conspicuous consumption and wastefulness;

An auto industry that voluntarily aims for the highest fuel-efficiency standards possible;

Grocery store chains that choose local produce over shipped foods whenever they can;

Programs and policies -- both governmental and business -- that make energy-efficient appliances and lights, fresh and healthful foods, and alternative energy -- affordable for even the lowest-income citizens; and

Continued success and ever-expanding influences for every person who's working -- whether at the family, local or international level -- to build strong, green, healthy and sustainable communities.

Best wishes for a green and happy New Year, everyone!