"Think Green, Win Green" is back

"We live on an Earth with finite resources like fossil fuels (coal and oil) which are limited, meaning you cannot make more of them," says Chris Berti, an instructor in Fine and Applied Arts and a member of the Parkland College Sustainable Campus Committee. "They also include water and air. So when water gets contaminated, it can no longer be used, same with air. So, obviously there's no more. This is why sustainability is important. We need to create a lifestyle with sustainability where these will all be in our future," he said.With that in mind, the contest "Think Green, Win Green" came about at Parkland. "Think Green, Win Green" was an idea to get students involved in coming up with ideas to make Parkland a more sustainable environment, including the lifestyles of both students and staff.

This year's contest is approaching quickly and students can begin coming ups with ideas now. "Last year we had about two dozen entries and we expect to have that many this year," said Berti. "Ideas from last year included ones on placing LED lights in the parking lots, sensors on the lights and timers on the lights in the school. Ideas can have anything to do with sustainability which includes transportation, energy, and water consumption," he said.

This year's prize is a bicycle and possibly a couple of gift cards. "Students looking to enter can keep an eye out on Parkland's website and a link will be available soon with more information on how to enter," said Berti.

Parkland College will also host Earth Week that is in conjunction with "Think Green, Win Green." In March, one week will be devoted to all things having to do with the Earth and environment. Activities throughout the week will include an art show with recycled materials, trash clean up and information about Parkland's environment indoors and outdoors.

"People can do many things to make their lives more sustainable. Like recycling; Anything can be recycled, bottles, appliances, used gym shoes, anything really," he said. "And this is not a political issue. It affects everyone. No air, food and energy is not conservative or liberal," said Berti.

For more information students can keep an eye out at www.parkland.edu for the "Think Green, Win Green" link or contact Chris Berti at cberti@parkland.edu