February 2008 Reston Environmental Action Update

                  

 

Everyone is welcome to attend all board and committee meetings.

 

Although the REACT board was formed in 2001, our first years were spent planning, researching and laying groundwork.  It has been only a little over a year that we have been recruiting members, and we now have 46 dues-paying members!  Thank you for your part in growing this grassroots, environmental organization.

 

Clotheslines

The average household can save about 720 pounds of carbon dioxide a year by line-drying half of their laundry.  Many Reston residents would like to generate that fresh-breeze scent by hanging their clothes outside in the sunshine.  REACT members are planning to take this to the Reston Association Design Review Board.  Keeping aesthetics in mind, we are asking that portable lines be allowed.  If you are interested in helping, or showing your support, please email info@restonenvironmentalaction.org.

 

PROJECTS

Reston Recycles! & Close the Loop

How much energy is saved when recycled material is used to make new products?  Here are statistics from Co-op America:  Manufacturing aluminum from recycled materials uses 95% less energy than manufacturing virgin aluminum.  Manufacturing steel and plastic from recycled material uses 80% less energy.  Manufacturing paper uses 64% less and glass uses 50% less energy.  Plus, glass, steel and aluminum can continue to be recycled over and over again.

 

Encourage increased recycling, re-using and reducing in your neighborhood with Reston Recycles! and Close the Loop.  Email info@restonenvironmentalaction.org for more details.

 

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Eco-Friendly Yard and Garden Care  Next Meeting:  Monday, Feb 5,  7:00pm, 1684 Moorings

Committee members have completed their handout and are preparing for a neighborhood meeting in Wethersfield Cluster.

 

Drive Less, Breathe Better  Next Meeting:  Wed., Feb 20, 7:30 p.m., 2011 Approach Lane

The committee has invited elementary schools to participate in a pilot Walk to School Day in April to prepare for International Walk to School Month in October.

 

A neighborhood meeting is being planned for Moorings Cluster in February.

 

Reducing Workplace Waste  Next Meeting:  Sat, Feb 9, 9:00 a.m., 2011 Approach Lane

The committee is planning a fair for employees and employers seeking information on how to save energy, water, and other resources.  Committee members plan to invite service providers such as electronics recyclers, energy auditors, recycled product and green cleaning suppliers and others to the event.

 

Next REACT Board Meeting:  Tuesday, Feb 26, 7:30 p.m., RCC Hunters Woods, Room 1

 

 

Check www.restonenvironmentalaction.org for committee updates, meeting dates, and other REACT information.  If you would like to participate in Reston Recycles! or want to join a committee, contact Mary Brown at info@restonenvironmentalaction.org or 703-620-0151.