Dear Eartha, I recently read about a new hostel-style hotel being built in Silverthorne and the owner’s goal of diverting 80-90 percent of the old building materials away from the landfill. Can you tell me more about “green” demolition? Jake, Silverthorne Jake, let me first start by saying this is super exciting news for Summit […]
Dear Eartha, I’m trying to be a better water steward. What are some ways to improve water quality? Glad you’re interested in preserving water quality. Water stewardship is a key component to keeping our waterways clean, our drinking water safe, and protecting aquatic life. Water pollution occurs everywhere, and everyone should do their part to […]
Dear Eartha, I have an old TV, a pile of clothes, some unused medication, and a bottle of fertilizer collecting dust around my garage, what do I do with these things? — Bailey, Dillon Valley Bailey, we are so glad you asked because the annual recycling event is this weekend, Saturday, May 19. The event […]
Dear Eartha, I’d like to decrease my carbon footprint. I have a good understanding of how to decrease my home energy use, and I know that I can buy renewable electricity from Xcel Energy. I’m also trying to purchase less, waste less, and eat less meat. But I can’t afford an electric car right now, […]
Dear Eartha, This past Earth Day I learned a lot about the plastic pollution problem our planet is facing, and I am curious about how plastic recycling can help make a difference. Does recycling really help? Thank you for your question. And, yes you are correct that plastic pollution is indeed a serious problem that […]
Dear Eartha, One of my favorite things about living in Colorado is all the local brewers. I love beer but I’m curious – how sustainable is beer brewing? As a Summit County resident, you have many options when it comes to local brews. Sometimes, though, you may wonder if kicking back and having a few […]
Dear Eartha, I am a CMC student and sustainable-food activist, I’d love to learn more about growing sustainable food. Can I get involved in some greenhouses and gardens around the county? Hillary, Breckenridge Thank you for your question this week Hillary. Growing sustainable food is a huge part of sustainability and hats off to you […]
Dear Eartha, With spring rolling in, I’m getting ready to dive into some projects around the house. I’ve always been interested in making my 30-year-old home more energy efficient and comfortable. What home-improvement projects should I consider adding to my list this summer and where should I start? -Thomas, Summit Cove Although this winter seemed […]
Dear Eartha, After my recent ACL surgery, I have lots of extra painkillers left and don’t know what to do with them. My grandmother advised me to just flush my unused medications down the toilet, but I feel this might be bad for the environment. Is that the case? – Jennifer, Frisco Jennifer, you are […]
Dear Eartha, I’ve heard of an upcoming campaign called Fix-A-Leak Week. I live near the Blue River and have a passion for conserving our limited water resources in the Mountain West. How can I take part? I appreciate your interest in water conservation! I, too, have a penchant for limiting my household’s water consumption, and […]
Dear Eartha, My company wants to create a zero waste goal, but once we do, how do we make it actually happen? Zero waste is becoming a more popular business goal, which is a great sign for our community as we strive to send less waste to the landfill. For folks who haven’t heard of […]
