Kids Growing Green-So they're not green about the environment

By J.K. Perry
Want to teach your kids the importance of the environment? Take them on a hike. “I think the single most important thing we can do is develop a wonder for nature in our children,” said Carly Wier, executive director of the Summit County environmental group High Country Conservation. “Teaching (children) to be good stewards of the environment helps ensure a clean, healthy environment for all generations to come.” Environmentalists say people need to get rid of the sense of throwing waste “away.” Processed materials — like plastic — often don’t break down and naturally re-enter the environment when thrown away. The waste piles into landfills and other places out of sight. Parents should teach their children to limit waste and make necessary waste useful, environmentalists say. Matt Scherr, executive director of the Eagle Valley Alliance for Sustainability, started his kids early. They recycle and throw easilydegradable trash into an odorless indoor compost. The real-time science experiment intrigues children, Scherr said. Once the trash breaks down, the compost turns into soil. Plus, composting garbage means less
garbage to haul to the curb, which is always a bonus among children. Here are some tips environmental gurus recommend for parents and children:
• The first principle is to foster a connection to nature and an understanding that trash doesn’t disappear and often doesn’t break down.
• Visit a landfill. Out of site is out of mind!
• Compost. Lawn clippings, food, paper towels and newspapers all break down.
• Recycle cans, plastic and other materials to be used again.
• Start a recycling or energy-saving program at school. It can start simple — making sure computers are turned off at night, for example.

To get involved reach High Country Conservation at 970-668-5703
www.highcountryconservation.org