At Heron’s Key, our commitment to sustainability is deeply rooted in community spirit. Earth Day is more than a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of the everyday choices we can make to create a healthier planet. Leading the charge here at Heron’s Key is our resident-led Green Interest Group, whose passion and dedication have sparked meaningful change across campus.
A Resident-Led Commitment to Change
Spearheaded by residents like longtime climate advocate Alison Kettering, the Green Interest Group at Heron’s Key has become an inspirational force in helping shape more conscious habits among our community. Their efforts go beyond education; they partner with our Facilities and Culinary Services teams to discover new strategies to help reduce waste and promote environmental awareness.
Each week, the group shares tips with fellow residents—small, practical steps that add up to a big impact. This grassroots approach has inspired others on campus to rethink their habits and make choices that are better for both people and the planet.
Why It Matters: The Climate Connection
One of the group’s primary focuses is reducing food waste, and for good reason. When food ends up in landfills, it decomposes without oxygen, creating methane, a greenhouse gas that’s more than 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide over a 100-year period. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, food is the single largest category of material placed in municipal landfills.
By composting organic waste instead, we can significantly cut down on methane emissions and return valuable nutrients to the soil. It’s a win-win for the planet and for future generations. Learn more from the Washington State Department of Ecology about managing organics and composting efforts locally.
Simple Steps to Live a Little Greener at Heron’s Key
Looking for ways to make a difference? Here are a few easy, effective actions inspired by the Green Interest Group at Heron’s Key:
- Recycle smarter. Learn what can and can’t be recycled locally, and avoid “wish-cycling.”
- Compost food scraps. Participate in on-campus composting or set up a countertop bin for organic waste. Learn more about Washington’s composting guidance.
- Cut down on single-use plastics. Use reusable bags, bottles, and containers whenever possible.
- Dispose responsibly. Join services like Ridwell to recycle hard-to-dispose-of items like plastic film, batteries, and textiles.
- Spread the word. Talk to neighbors about easy sustainability swaps and help grow the momentum.
A Growing Movement at Heron’s Key
Thanks to the enthusiasm of the Green Interest Group and residents like Alison, Heron’s Key is seeing real change. There’s a shared sense of ownership, pride, and responsibility when it comes to caring for our environment, and that energy is contagious.
As we celebrate Earth Day at Heron’s Key, we’re reminded that every small action counts. We’re proud of the momentum building within our community and inspired by the commitment of our residents to continue learning, sharing, and taking steps—big and small—toward a more sustainable way of life.
