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Hillsboro, Oregon
Erika Probst, “I felt like more could be done t the workplace..."



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          Nick Engelfried          
          Nick
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          Hillsboro, Oregon

I have always been fascinated and inspired by nature, and got into environmentalism because I was concerned about the decline of the species and ecosystems that bring me so much joy.

The more I learn about the complex of interlocking environmental problems confronting us, though, the more I realize that human civilization is at risk as surely as the natural world.

As a young person, and current college student, I feel my own generation has the most to lose if we do not keep these problems in check.

I began working to persuade my city of Hillsboro, Oregon, to adopt the US Mayors Climate Protection Agreement, after being inspired by an assignment for a State & Local Government class. The city ratified the Agreement in spring, 2007, and I am now working on the Board of Commissioners for Washington County.

I believe local governments have a crucial role to play in combating climate change, and that each of our cities and counties needs to do its part - just as every individual does.

I keep a blog about my work with local governments at http://members.greenpeace.org/blog/engel

Global warming and other environmental problems are not just a problem. They are the problem that our generation has to deal with.

This is the time to begin figuring out how you can drive less, save energy, and reduce material consumption - and pressure your elected officials at every level of government for change. It turns out that there is no time to waste.

I suddenly felt pathetic that I was just going with the flow, when I could actually do something different here and now.

Something as simple as refusing a bag for a small item purchased or bringing in my own, recycling anything possible and going the extra mile to find out where to recycle the items not made convenient at curbside, riding or walking instead of driving, and most important, raising my children with the same habits and care for our environment.

At work a small group of us decided to have a Go Green campaign and make sure that the basic resources were being utilized by each employee, including recycling bins at each work space, ensuring the cleaning crew properly sorted recyclables, purchasing recycled or unpackaged supplies and weekly Go Green emails with tips and facts on how everyone can do their share.

I don't want to wait for the tragedy that will invoke America to react. I want to make a difference today, by not only doing my part, but by helping others to understand the simplicity and power of that effort.
       
               
                 
               
                 
                 
                 
               
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               
                 
               
                 
               
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
                 
               
                   
                     
                     
                             
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            elaine loving
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