 Green Jobs Webinar | Jan. 26, 6pm
This presentation focuses on jobs that help promote the future of sustainable energy. Register to attend on Zoom.
 Are you weighing which climate actions to adopt in 2022? Should you cut down packaging or invest in a clothes line? Buy an EV or eat less meat? How can you decide what has the most impact and works best for you?
We can help! Join Recycling Coordinator Jane Wilch and Climate Action Engagement Specialist Sarah Gardner at noon on Jan. 18 for an open discussion of how they weigh options for both City initiatives and individual actions.
As with the previous “Speaking of” discussion, you won’t see any slides, charts, or graphs. But you will have a chance to take part in a lively conversation about climate action, useful resources, and the search for a better metaphor than “low hanging fruit.”
Register at this link to take part in the virtual conversation at noon on Jan. 18.
Habitat for Humanity ReStore offers sustainable lumber
 Are you in need of lumber, or know someone who is? Habitat for Humanity ReStore (Iowa City and Des Moines locations) is offering urban lumber to anyone interested.
"Urban lumber" is wood cut from trees found within city limits, often ones that have been felled by storms or that need to be removed due to age or size. This particular wood was processed in local sawmills, further reducing emissions.
By choosing ReStore's lumber you are supporting both sustainable products and Habitat for Humanity's mission of helping build homes, communities and hope.
Learn more about this program on the web page and find out more about ReStore on their web site.
How to get around town in a warmer, wetter winter
In the Midwest, climate change will contribute to warmer, wetter winters. Melting and wet snow increases the frequency of ice cover on our roads.
On a bike:
1. Scout your route.
2. Consider studded tires, and use the widest tire your bike allows.
3. Look ahead by several yards to steer around icy spots.
4. Skid safely. Gently steer into the direction of the skid and shift your weight to the rear of the bike.
More winter biking tips on this Bike Library web page.
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In a car:
1. Use caution on hills and bridges. Remember, bridges and overpasses freeze faster than roads.
2. Pump your brakes. Try to avoid sudden movements on icy spots.
3. Turn into a slide. To regain traction, slow down and turn the wheel in the direction the rear of the car is sliding.
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Iowa City’s Climate Action Commission meets monthly
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Access upcoming and past meeting packets here. |
You're invited to Iowa's 2022 Legislative Session Preview
On January 6 at 2pm, the Iowa Recycling Association (IRA) will host a webinar.
The online conversation will discuss priorities identified by Governor Reynolds and legislative leaders, review recycling-related bills, and examine how the new redistricting map may impact the political landscape moving forward. The presentation will also discuss how to make your voice heard, and will be followed by a Q&A Session.
Contact the IRA Programming and Communications Chair for questions jane-wilch@iowa-city.org.
 Olivia Parrott
Climate Communications Assistant
 How do you take climate action?
Every climate action I take matters because each action is a contribution to the world. I do my best to shop locally, to go meatless most days, to compost, and to talk about climate change with other people. These conversations are most effective when people can see climate change’s causes and effects in their daily lives.
What can others do to take climate action?
Talk about climate change. Talk about the climate action you do and that you know others do. This action works on many levels: you are reinforcing that climate action matters to you, you’re helping others do the same, and you’re sharing information and ideas. I’ve found these conversations to be more motivating and inspiring than depressing, even as we’re talking about something that is often avoided for that very reason.
And…insulate your home! Based on our City’s greenhouse gas consumption inventory, Iowa City would benefit from this action more than most others.
Why is it important to take climate action?
Beyond making you feel good, climate action is a way to heal our world in a very urgently necessary way. As I’ve learned more and more about the climate crisis, I’ve come to think, “why wouldn’t it be important to take climate action?” It’s existential. It’s our planet and it’s the only place we can live. I’m very fond of humanity, and so wish to keep this planet safe for humans to live on for many generations to come.
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Olivia Parrott has authored Iowa City's Sustainability Newsletter since April 2020 and also provided valuable contributions to the Neighborhood Energy Blitz and Climate Fest. She leaves this month to take a climate communications position with the Georgia Forestry Association. We thank her for her efforts to spread the word about climate action in Iowa City and wish her all the best in her new adventure!
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