As 2020 comes to a close, it's a great time to reflect on the year that has passed, while also looking forward to the year ahead. If you're thinking about making New Year's resolutions with the planet in mind, below are some simple things you can do that will have a big environmental, economic, and community impact.
Shop Small, Shop Local - Novato is home to many small and independently-owned businesses. By supporting these businesses, your money continues to circulate locally and helps our community thrive. 2020 was a brutal year for small businesses, and they need our sustained support now more than ever! #shoplocalnovato
Green Your Ride - Exhaust from vehicles is the single biggest source of pollution in Novato. We can all do our part to tackle this pollution by reducing car trips, walking and biking more, taking public transit and reducing vehicle idling. If a new car is in your future, consider an all-electric or hybrid model and be sure to buy or lease locally.
Reduce Food Waste - It takes a ridiculous amount of energy to move food from the farm to the table. Reducing the amount of food wasted, by only buying what you need and making sure that all food scraps are placed in your green cart, is an easy and cost effective way to reduce your impact.
Eat More Plants - Eating a plant-rich diet is one of the most impactful things you can do to reduce your individual environmental impact. Not only do plant-rich diets help to reduce carbon emissions, they are also healthier and tend to be cheaper!
Choose Renewable Energy & Use it Wisely - Electricity produced from renewable sources (e.g. sun, wind, hydro) is now more affordable than ever, and both MCE Clean Energy and PG&E offer renewable options for residential and business customers. Using less electricity, especially during peak hours 4pm-9pm, reduces demand on the grid and saves money.
Plant a Tree, Grow a Garden - Trees are a critical part of the climate solution because they absorb pollution and create shade to reduce heat and energy use. By growing trees, shrubs, and food, you can turn your back yard (or front yard!) into a 'carbon sink'.
Just Say 'No' To Plastic - The ocean produces over half of the world's oxygen and absorbs 50 times more carbon dioxide than the atmosphere. Yet if current trends continue, our oceans could contain more plastic than fish by 2050! Only 9% of all plastic ever produced has been recycled, but you can help turn the tide on plastic pollution by choosing durable, reusable, and refillable items.
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It is estimated that as many as 194 billion disposable masks and gloves are being used (and thrown away...) globally every month as a result of the coronavirus pandemic!
With experts predicting that the use of face-coverings will likely be recommended for many more months, reusable masks are a great option to help reduce waste. Reusable masks come in every color and pattern imaginable, are surprisingly affordable, and are available in local stores, as well as online. Simply wash reusable masks in hot, soapy water and use them over and over again.
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Novato City Council Passes Climate Emergency Resolution! |
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On November 10, 2020, the Novato City Council unanimously passed a Resolution Declaring a Climate Emergency and directed staff to identify priority climate actions for possible inclusion in the next City of Novato Strategic Plan update.
Community engagement will be a critical part of the strategic planning process. To be kept up-to-date on opportunities to get involved, register for E-Notifications or email sustainability@novato.org.
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Among other provisions, the adoption of the Resolution paves the way for climate issues to be elevated in the City's goalsetting process; ensures precedence be given to climate mitigation and adaptation when evaluating policies and purchases, planning for projects, and allocating resources; and directs staff to seek additional financial resources to support these efforts.
A recording of the City Council discussion on the Climate Emergency Resolution can be accessed at the link below starting at the 1:42 mark.
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Got Some Extra Time & Want to Help Beautify Our City? |
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The Novato Streetscape Committee is looking for enthusiastic volunteers to participate in three programs aimed at beautifying our City and protecting our local environment.
Team Up to Clean Up - Volunteers meet on the first Saturday of each month at a designated location to pick up litter. The clean up location is emailed to volunteers and also posted on City social media accounts and website calendar.
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Adopt-an-Island - This program encourages individuals, organizations, and businesses to help create a cleaner, more beautiful Novato by adopting a median island. Volunteer tasks include litter removal, planting, weeding, and mulching. Participants that commit to the program for a minimum of two years, will have a customized “Adopted By (Name)” sign placed on their island in recognition of their contribution to our City.
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daffodil bulbs on his adopted island at the corner of Sunset Parkway and Cambridge Street
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Adopt-a-Spot - To join this program, volunteers 'adopt' a designated public area to keep litter and/or weed free. Volunteers can choose their own location or select a spot from a list of priority areas that are in need of regular attention. The Streetscape Committee provides Adopt-a-Spot volunteers with a clean-up kit (e.g. gloves, bags, grabbers, bucket, safety vest) to make is super easy to help keep Novato beautiful!
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To volunteer or learn more: streetscape@novato.org. Please note that some volunteer activities have been suspended until further notice due to the current Stay-at-Home order.
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While we won't be able to gather at City Hall for the Novato Green Film Series this winter, there are a number of FANTASTIC films that you can rent or stream for free from the comfort and safety of home!
If you missed a film that was previously screened at the Green Film Series, click the button below for the full list of films shown.
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When: Thursday, December 17 from 11am-12pm
Where: Zoom (Meeting ID: 422 722 0072 - Password: WasteZero) or join by phone (669) 900-6833
Hosts: Garen Kazanjian (Waste Zero Specialist, Recology Sonoma Marin) & Dee Johnson (Solid & Hazardous Waste Program Coordinator, Novato Sanitary District)
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COVID-19 COMMUNITY RESOURCES |
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Marin County COVID-19
Call: 415-473-7191
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The City’s Sustainability Team wishes you and your loved ones all the
very best for the holiday season. Love, kindness, and community
will continue to get us through these unprecedented times!
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City of Novato Sustainability Program
(415) 899-8950 | novato.org/sustainability
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