One of the main things I have noticed this week is how much I have been driving. Also, the way I have been driving has not been the most fuel efficient. There are not many people in my neighborhood who ride bikes for transportation. That being said, I am looking forward to using my bike to run errands and going to work. Why not ride a bike? On a bike I will not cause carbon dioxide to pollute the air and I will get exercise too. Maybe someone will see me riding around the neighborhood and be encouraged to park their car and ride a bike. I have also noticed an increase in the amount of trash I have been putting out in the past few weeks. With all of the cardboard, plastic, glass, and compostables going into the trash, I have been taking out the trash several times a week.

I continually feel guilty for not being green. I truly believe that it would be very difficult for someone to stop being green. Since Father's Day is soon, I have been shopping for gifts that are earth-friendly. I want people to see the many different ways of being green, and hopefully I will help someone start leading a green life. Really, this whole project and summer experiment would be a success to me if just one person took steps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Breakdown on Source of North Little Rock's Electricity (approximate values):

9% - Hydroelectric Plant on Arkansas River

6% - Waste Management's Methane Generator

85% - purchased power from negotiated contracts. This is a blend of coal, hydroelectric, and natural gas.

(Source: Terry Kessinger or North Little Rock Electric)

North Little Rock has an advantage over other cities of being able to have a hydroelectric plant on a river. Even this small percentage of power reduces the city's overall carbon dioxide emissions levels.