As we consider the beauty of the season with its holly and ivy and decorated trees galore, I invite and encourage each and every citizen of Dubuque to consider how to ensure “sustainable beauty.” If we commit to simple, achievable actions, we can lead by example and make a big difference in our children’s future.  

At www.cityofdubuque.org, click on “Green Pledge” and join your neighbors in conserving our way forward! Thank you!  

THE PLEDGE:

ENERGY
I PLEDGE to replace four light bulbs with Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFLs).
I CAN eliminate 1,800 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions over the life of the bulbs.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can prevent 20,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, which is the equivalent of eliminating 4,200 tons of coal.
 
WATER
I PLEDGE to turn off the faucet while brushing my teeth.
I CAN save four gallons of water a day.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can save enough water to fill one Olympic-sized swimming pool every week.
 
MOBILITY
I PLEDGE to eliminate one car trip a month with walking, bicycling, carpooling or public transit.
I CAN decrease carbon dioxide emissions by 500 pounds per year.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can decrease carbon dioxide emissions by 5,400 tons – the equivalent of conserving 50,000 gallons of gas.
 
AIR
I PLEDGE to plant or care for a tree or a few native plants by watering, mulching, and removing litter.
I CAN help a mature tree keep 48 pounds of carbon dioxide per year out of the atmosphere.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can keep more than 1,200 tons of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere – the equivalent of 35 fully loaded semi trailers.
 
RESOURCES
I PLEDGE to fill my recycle bin with acceptable material as often as I discard these items.
I CAN eliminate 800 pounds of wasted resources per year.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can eliminate 9,000 tons of landfilled resources and 7,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.
 
NATURE
I PLEDGE to provide a bird feeder and/or bird bath to improve habitat for native songbirds.
I CAN make my backyard and neighborhood more suitable for our feathered neighbors.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can improve habitat for dozens of bird species and thousands of songbirds.
 
GREEN ECONOMY
I PLEDGE to purchase and try one new environmentally preferable product each month.
I CAN protect the environment by using more earth-friendly products.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can empower green manufacturing that keeps tons of carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere.
 
ECO-LITERACY
I PLEDGE to learn more about environmental issues by viewing one relevant TV program or video each month.
I CAN improve my scientific knowledge of environmental problems and solutions.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can become more informed citizens in order to vote for and secure a better future.

FOOD
I PLEDGE to purchase $10 of local produce (or meat items) weekly when seasonally available.
I CAN improve local farm income and have fresh, healthier food choices.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can expand a safer and more sustainable local food economy.
 
SHELTER
I PLEDGE to use one less toxic product in maintaining my workplace and/or home each month.
I CAN keep toxic fumes and materials from entering the environment.
TOGETHER, all Dubuquers can protect our families and other living things from exposure to toxic and dangerous materials.