jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org – San Rafael Climate Action

When traffic is backed up, I’m taking a nice little 15-30 minute nap

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 22:11:47 +0000

I love commuting by public transit. 40 years later and I’m still using it.

Public transportation has served me well. I don’t have any of the parking hassles. When I had a car it cost me $300 per month to park it. So I’m saving money, too, especially with my employee commute benefits. But ultimately for me, it’s convenience. I live within 3 blocks of a bus stop in The City and I can walk to work from the San Rafael Transit Center. I don’t travel more than 30-45 minutes point to point. On my way to work in the morning, I read a book or plan out my day. On my way home, I take a nap. So that means I don’t have to pay attention to the road. It takes away the stress of driving; driving for me now is just for leisure. William Calhoun, San Rafael Public Library

Our clients appreciate our green ethic

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 22:09:15 +0000

VenturePad made the choice to use energy efficient appliances in their business. Not only do they save money, they are contributing to a healthy environment. They also have created a Zero Waste Kitchen. They can reuse or recycle everything in the kitchen, and they save money by not purchasing single-use dish and serving-ware. They suggest businesses do some research and see what appliances can be replaced with energy efficient ones. “Get a dishwasher and durable plates, cups, and silverware and watch your trash bill go down. Modeling green behavior pays off in many ways; your customers and clients will appreciate it.” Chris Yalonis and Alejandro Moreno, VenturePad.

Getting exercise and avoiding traffic!

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 22:02:11 +0000

I get to bike to work and meet some new friends on the SMART train when I use it as part of the commute. This has also allowed me to get to know some fellow employees better when we share a ride on the train. The best part is I get some exercise and I’m not sitting in traffic every day! Plus, my work has discounted SMART passes and other incentives, which makes it a better deal. If you are new to biking, find a friend to ride with. It’s the smart thing to do! Steve Mason, Senior Supervisor, Albert J. Boro Community Center.

Resized my furnace – and energy bill – while keeping good temps!

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 22:00:07 +0000

I made the choice to reduce the size of my air conditioner and furnace as part of my remodel. The smaller system was less expensive, and I felt good that I was conserving energy. The system is much more quiet, and is just about as effective as the larger, noisy machines. Save money and energy by implementing smaller systems! You can also pick new air ducts and more stylish air registers, too to make the whole thing more efficient. Rich Myhre, San Rafael Resident.

Who knew that climate action could be so much fun?!

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:53:40 +0000

The Earth Allies Climate Action Team came together for five meetings to learn about climate change and take actions to do something about it. These teams are run by Resilient Neighborhoods and offered free of charge at various locations around Marin. On a Climate Action Team, you calculate your carbon footprint and take measurable steps to reduce it with support from the team and program leaders. Then, you get your family prepared for emergencies like wildfires and power outages. The Earth Allies felt amazing to have achieved meaningful results with great people who also care, instead of wasting time worrying! Maureen “Mo” De Nieva-Marsh, RxSafe Marin.

Make a friend by finding a carpool buddy

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:46:46 +0000

Finding a carpool buddy was simple, cost-saving, and fun. I saved so much on gas, and I was no longer lonely in the car. We cut our carbon footprint in half, and I was able to make a friend while doing so. Go to Marin Commutes or 511.org, and find a carpool buddy; it isn’t just for travel times. Who knew carpooling could be enjoyable too? Lauren Davini with carpool buddy Thomas Wong, City of San Rafael Public Works Department.

Speak out about what you value

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:45:05 +0000

As a student member of the City of San Rafael’s Climate Change Action Plan Working Group, I have worked to adopt the City of San Rafael’s new Climate Change Action Plan (CCAP) in an effort to combat climate change and create a more resilient community. By including myself and other students in their discussions and decisions, this working group has given the youth of San Rafael a platform to advocate for the things we value. At a recent City Council meeting where the CCAP was discussed, I spoke out about what I value: measures to protect our community and our world from our changing climate. The City Council heard me, and our new Climate Change Action Plan has been adopted! Charlotte Kamman, Marin School of Environmental Leadership.

My EV fits my dog and the volleyball team!

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:43:08 +0000

With ‘Dog Mode,’ I can bring Indigo with me around town and know that she’ll be nice and cool in the car. When I’m not running errands with my dog, I’m driving my daughters’ club volleyball carpools around Northern California. This spring, I drove the teams over 2500 electric miles, greatly decreasing my fossil fuel consumption and thus, my carbon footprint. I was able to fit 4 players and their luggage, and we travelled to Reno three times, with a quick 30-minute lunch stop to charge on the way. Annika Osborn, Sun Valley Neighborhood.

I chose to speak out

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 31 Jul 2019 21:31:04 +0000

I chose to speak out for my city!

I represented the youth at city meetings on behalf of climate action. My generation will have to experience the worst of the climate crisis. The more we do on a local level to actively combat this crisis, making our city more sustainable and resilient, ensures that our kids and grandkids will be able to happily live in the beautiful city of San Rafael. Promote awareness and educate others on the climate problems. Do all you can, and encourage others as well, to be more green and to use energy efficient options. Carpool, drive electric, and use solar panels whenever you can! And go to meetings and speak out! Ana Ostrovsky, Marin School of Environmental Leadership.

Save money and the environment by switching to electric and solar

jmyhre2021@marincatholic.org — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 23:49:46 +0000

I made the choice to say goodbye to gas. I switched to electric and I have saved well over a thousand dollars by avoiding ridiculous gas prices! Now I drive in a comfortable electric car, for over 300 miles on a single charge. I save so much money and time by avoiding the repairs needed on old gas cars. I also save thousands on electricity since I made the switch to solar. San Rafael has a great local store, with expertise on sizing for all types of homes. I recommend to look at Yelp reviews of solar providers, and get multiple bids on your home to find the best price! I have eliminated my gas emissions, and I now help save the environment in a easy, low-cost way. Don’t delay, go electric! Anne-Christine Strugnell, San Rafael resident.