New Web Site Aims to Inspire Pennsylvanians to Conserve, Protect, Enjoy Natural Resources
HARRISBURG, Pa., March 3 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Governor Edward G. Rendell today announced the search for Pennsylvanians who make everyday efforts to conserve natural resources to share their stories and get inspiration from others through the new iConserve Pennsylvania initiative.
“You can’t pick up a newspaper today or have a conversation with your neighbor that doesn’t touch on issues like the Earth’s climate warming, how energy bills are taking a toll on household budgets, or that kids don’t play outside anymore,” Governor Rendell said. “Even small actions, when taken collectively, can make a difference; but it’s sometimes hard for individuals to sort through all of the information to figure out what steps we can take.
“The iConserve Pennsylvania initiative’s Web site, http://www.iconservepa.org/, can help by providing a place for people to share their stories about conservation, get tips, learn why Pennsylvania’s natural resources are so special, and be inspired to start with simple steps,” the Governor said.
The new effort is being introduced this week at exhibits that reach the thousands of visitors at the Philadelphia Flower Show and the Pennsylvania Garden Expo in Harrisburg.
PA iCons — people who already do things in their everyday lives to help address alarming environmental trends — are featured on the Web site. Twelve “founding” iCons demonstrate some conservation practices needed to combat Pennsylvania’s core environmental challenges. Others are encouraged to share their conservation story by filling out a profile with their own tips, stories and favorite places in Pennsylvania.
“As a family, we practice conservation in many ways from buying organic and local, to biking to work and using florescent light bulbs, however, we are most passionate about reducing consumption,” said Sarah Ruppert, of Nazareth, one of the 12 founding PA iCons. “We found that by recycling/reusing everything from water bottles, toys, clothing, furniture, and even household appliances we minimize our footprint and save money!”
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources administers the iConservePA.org Web site.
“We are at an important crossroads for the environment, much as Pennsylvanians were 100 years ago when mountains were stripped of their woodlands, and waterways were choked with debris, sediment and pollution,” Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Michael DiBerardinis said. “Our issues are different, but the future of our natural resources still depends on how we react to them now.”
Web site visitors can subscribe to a free monthly electronic newsletter that will include fun facts and green tips. Also featured are simple commitments, next steps and lifestyle change ideas that can help anyone become familiar with conservation, grow their interest, and take action.
Secretary DiBerardinis said iConserve Pennsylvania will eventually expand to include partnerships with organizations and businesses that want to become more active in promoting conservation and stewardship of the state’s natural resources.
Visit http://www.iconservepa.org/ to explore why conservation is needed and what each person can do to make a difference.
The Rendell administration is committed to creating a first-rate public education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out more about Governor Rendell’s initiatives and to sign up for his weekly newsletter, visit http://www.governor.state.pa.us/.
EDITOR’S NOTE: An iConservePA logo is available in a graphic format upon request.
CONTACT: Chuck Ardo 717-783-1116 Christina Novak (DCNR) Terry Brady (DCNR) 717-772-9101
Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
CONTACT: Chuck Ardo, +1-717-783-1116 or Christina Novak, Terry Brady,+1-717-772-9101, both of DCNR
Web Site: http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/http://www.iconservepa.org/