On the Brickyard

What do you do to help the environment?

"I have deputized myself to be the 'recycling police' in Human Resources. At a recent HR staff meeting I got on my soapbox about the subject, admonishing my HR peers for throwing their beverage containers into a trash can that was literally six feet away from a large recycling container. I mean, how could you miss that big blue thing? I've suggested that they place their individual recycling container under their desk and place their trash can in a less convenient spot, to put them in the habit of recycling. There may even be some people in HR who will admit to being "busted" by me after witnessing them putting office paper or beverage containers in their trash can"

-- Franki Senter, director, University Payroll

 

"I bicycle a lot. In fact, I don't even own a car. I also recycle and garden. I like to grow as much of my own food as I can, even in the city. I like to grow trees and other native plants. In my classes, I try to convey as many messages related to our responsibility for the environment."

-- Dr. Sophia Kathariou, associate professor, Department of Food, Bioprocessing & Nutrition Sciences

 

 

 

"About six years ago I started a non-profit group called the Raleigh Drum Circle that initially met here on campus. As the group grew, we partnered with Raleigh Parks & Recreation and started a program at Lake Johnson park. The monthly rhythm event there draws folks from all walks off life, ages 3 to 63. Our April session falls on Monday evening before Earth Day.  To help promote the occasion and encourage recycling, we're trading our regular drums in and holding a "junk jam" using pots, pans, plastic tubs and other percussive items from home. My personal favorite is an old plumbing fitting I picked up at the surplus warehouse for a dollar. It makes a great bell!"

-- Greg Whitt, operations manager, Joyner Visitor Center

 

 

"I buy renewable, non-polluting energy for my home through NC GreenPower, a Centennial Campus partner. Coupled with efforts to conserve energy and purchase all energy star appliances, this costs me only $4 each month on my Progress Energy electric bill. That contribution helps grow North Carolina's renewable energy economy and reduce our dependence on fossil fuels."

-- Ryan Powell, education and outreach coordinator, Waste Reduction & Recycling Office