Eco-mmunity to End Fossil Fuel

Carl Hekkert's Page

Carl Hekkert Male Sunnyvale, California, United States: 19k9c0jls8d5l; Share

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Tell us about yourself, and why you support the renewable energy movement.: My desire for renewable energy started from my passion for cycling. I'm looking to understand the social influences that prevent and promote use of alternative transportation and green energy. WIth my background as a CPA to look to renewable energy cost effective. I also hope to promote transparent reporting of the results of renewable energy efforts.

How do you contribute?: Support new solar energy system installations with EFCs, Carbon offset with RECs, Select low carbon footprint products, Support environmentally-conscious companies, Try to reduce-reuse-recycle, Support local sustainable agriculture, Reduce my junk mail and paper products

Do you have tips on how to conserve and be more energy-efficient?: My approach is to take a holistic approach to energy conservation. How far do you live from work? Can you ride your bike there? I try to ride my bike to work as much as possible. What types of activities do you do? I try to participate in local activies that require less time in the car and more time outdoors.

At 11:42pm on June 2nd, 2009, Carl Hekkert said…: Ethics in the USA - well, thats a long story. This country needs a re-introduction to ethics. Ethics basically means "practices" or the things we do on a regular basis - our actions. The original Protestant work ethic and the spirit of Capitalism that drove our country originally has taken us a bit too far. Or I should say - that we kept the capitalism part and left the spirit at home. Our country was founded on spiritual roots, but it seems now we are now a culture of rational self interest - more concerned with our business, our home, our things than creating communities where people can live in a more sustainable manner. I'm excited to see what some communities are doing like Full Circel Farms (www.fullcirclesunnyvale.org). This country has become much more diverse than its founding fathers would ever realize. However, that should be the basis for a rejuvenated spirituality leading to a foundation for ethics. One thing we are missing is a connection to the foundational texts that breath life into our souls and call us to be better people. These foundational texts are the source of our values. Without reaching common ground through agreement on values, we will never reach cultural transformation. Common values must be the basis for action within the organizations where we work and volunteer. Only when we've thought deeply about common values can we begin to talk about ethics.

At 8:48pm on May 31st, 2009, Sassan said…: Carl,
welcome to EFF.com

love to read your thoughts on ETHICS and this country