Here are some resources that can help each of us reduce our impact on the environment:
Electronic Waste Recycling
Tech Dump offers secure electronics recycling, many items being free. Their security techniques for clearing hard drives meet the Department of Defense standards. Tech Dump is fully licensed and insured, 100% of collected materials are recycled and they provide stable jobs for adults with barriers. Locations are 698 Prior Avenue North in St. Paul and 825 Boone Avenue North in Minneapolis. Contact www.techdump.org or call 763-432-3117.
Recycling and Organic Waste Composting
For those who live in Ramsey County, be sure to download the Recycling Guide at www.RamseyRecycles.com or contact 651-633-EASY for locations and accepted items.
Household Hazardous Waste
The year-round household hazardous waste site is located 5 Empire Drive, St. Paul, MN 55103. It is open to residents of Ramsey, Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin and Washington counties. There are free mobile collection sites in a variety of greater metro locations during the warmer months.
Mississippi River State of the River Report and Stewardship Guide
Go to www.stateoftheriver.com for the Mississippi River State of the River Report and Stewardship Guide, prepared by Friends of the Mississippi River www.fmr.org) and Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (www.nps.gov/miss) The Report is well-written and provides an excellent assessment of our beloved Mississippi River in mostly non-technical terms. The Stewardship Guide describes 10 easy steps that we can all do at home, which are:
1) Use salt wisely;
2) Don’t flush your pills;
3) Avoid microplastics in your purchasing;
4) Rake up, sweep up, pick up;
5) Keep the raindrop where it falls;
6) Maintain a river-friendly yard;
7) Adopt your storm drain;
8) Pick up after your pet;
9) Use lead-free shot and tackle;
10) Lend a hand.
GDLC hosts Solar Energy Party
With the support of Gloria Dei’s Caring for Creation Team, Kenton Johnson hosted a Solar Party at his home. Twenty people interested in solar power options and other energy savings programs attended. The listed resources are not endorsed by Gloria Dei but are provided for assistance only. For information about options for your home, here are contacts:
COMMUNITY SOLAR GARDENS
Minnesota Interfaith Power & Light webpage on Community Solar
List of Solar Gardens in Minnesota provided by Clean Energy Resource Teams
MNIPL’s Solar Garden waiting list for residents of Ramsey and Washington counties
Contact Brent Murcia of MNIPL with questions: brentmurcia@mnipl.org or 860-796-1994
RESIDENTIAL ROOFTOP SOLAR
The Department of Commerce’s MN Solar App is a helpful tool to assess rooftop potential
Questions: Contact Sarah Whebbe or 800-620-3370.
HOME ENERGY EFFICIENCY
Home Energy Squad or 651-328-6220 is a program of the Center for Energy and Environment (CEE)
Contact Matt or Jen Danielson: info@greenhomedr.com or 612-216-1640.