I lost 5,000 pounds!

Yes, it's true. The office at D2E went on the Low Carbon Diet and I have lost 5,000 carbon pounds since we started this exploration. Since I never shy away from a challenge, I have set my goals on loosing another 5,000 pounds between now and June. (After a networking event I sat down at the bar to do my homework. Luckily this diet does not deprive me of wine.)

What are carbon pounds you ask?
This nifty workbook takes you through action items that shrink your carbon footprint. You calculate for your whole household - which means my footprint is significantly larger now that I am married. I went from being equal to a European citizen, taking public transportation and abiding by my good eco-habits, to being a typical American. I have my work cut out for me.

For those interested in learning about actions items they can take and working on it together as a team, this workbook is great. We did it together at the office and it did help to hear other stories, share tips and hold each other accountable.

Samples of some habits I picked up:
- Yes, we changed our light bulbs. It is one of the easier tasks, and it must be done.
- Shorter showers. This one is very difficult for me, as my apartment is old and cold.
- Turn down the heat. Keep the temperature low when not at home and at night while sleeping.
- Cold water for cleaning clothes.
- Eating lower on the food chain. More veggies and bugs! (Okay, I have not yet bitten into a bug, but I can't wait to see David Gracer grill up some insects Friday night at D2E.)

Future goals
- I will compost! I am looking forward to learning about my composting options at D2E. The Alternative Energy store should have some information.
- Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) - I am going to sign up for a CSA this year, and I am very excited about it. Harvest Coop will be at D2E and they are a convenient drop-off, so I'm hoping they can help me choose the right one for me.