Parents -- that's really a word for protectors, teachers,
safe havens, models. The parental savings account notion is what a parent does to better their child's future. Every time
a parent does a enviromentally good task, it adds to a 'savings account' for their children. Little things,
like waiting to shop when there is less potential to be stuck in gas wasting traffic, saves fuel and leaves the world
a little better for their children. The saved fuel is a deposit.
Children model their attitudes from adults. Showing a child that you took the time to separate
waste cans for recycleables can make a difference. A child watching you not leaving lights on will leave a lasting and
modeling impression on how important it is to protect the enviroment. The key is to show children by our actual behavior that
an action will reduce climate change. That action doesn't mean that life has to be less enjoyable. It means that life has
to be a little more responsible. Every act, even small, does two things -- it contributes to the savings account, and
it leads childrein to responsibly use resource but still protect the climate. We must be serious but
not panicky.
A list of ideas will be formulated here. We would like your input as well. Talk to your kids
and have them prepare ways to reduce the carbon footprint of your home and lives. They will take it seriously if you do. Give
yourself the goal of reducimg consumption by 10%. Show your children how to live with the small inconviences this may
incur. Show them as well how this is saving for their future similar to doing homework -- it pays back later on
in life.
One idea is to lighten the car "junk" load. Empty everything that is not mandatory. Imagine
how many tons of "junk" will not be driven around if tens of thousands of people did this same task. Moving that junk costs
money as well. You could probably find a better way to spend it. This would be a great project to do with your kids.
Tell all the adults in your circle about the savings account concept. Have them join in the
effort. Know that everytime you use less electricity or save a clean paper or plastic bag, you've made a deposit
that helps your children.
