For the inauguration of a president who has put saving the environment at the top of his “to-do” list, what would you expect but carbon-neutral inaugural balls, organic menus and valet bicycle parking?
During the Inaugural Speech
In his inaugural speech, Obama states while talking about America’s problems: “…and each day brings further evidence that the ways we use energy strengthen our adversaries and threaten our planet.”
In regards to what work needs to be done, Obama again referred to the environment: “We will harness the sun and the winds and the soil to fuel our cars and run our factories.” With Obama on the environment’s side, hopefully we’ll see a greener America in the next four years.
Green Inaugural Balls
Two Green Inaugural Balls were planned this year, one even featuring a green carpet from recycled rugs. The invitations were green as well, of course, printed on recycled paper.
“Our goal is to create an unforgettable evening while treading lightly on the Earth,” said Jenna Mack, an organizer of one Green Inaugural Ball -- not to be confused with another Green Inaugural Ball featuring Al Gore. Organizers of a number of other balls and celebrations used energy-efficient lighting.
“We're obviously not going to have paper towels in the bathroom," said Shelley Cohen, helping organize the green ball featuring Gore, the ex-vice president who shared a Nobel Peace Prize for efforts in raising awareness about climate change. “We're going to have air dryers.”
“Making the inaugural balls as low-energy and low-carbon as possible won't stop global warming, but it is a very important symbol about the direction of the incoming administration,” said Dan Weiss, director of climate strategy for the Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank.
Other Inaugural Celebrations
Many groups that promote causes around the country hosted an inaugural celebration. PETA gave away fur coats to the homeless while offering hot soy-milk cocoa to celebrate President Obama’s first day in office.
The Inauguration Itself
The greening of inauguration celebrations is drawing a special effort because Obama has made green projects a main theme of his economic stimulus plan. “Not only are we committed to holding an inauguration that is the most open and accessible in history,” said Linda Douglass, chief spokeswoman for Obama's inaugural committee, “but we are also committed to making sure that it is as environmentally friendly and sustainable as possible.”
The EPA has provided a liaison to the Presidential Inaugural Committee to advise on “best practices,” which is a first.
To reduce the inauguration’s carbon footprint, attendees are asked to carpool or ride public transit. For those driving long distances, they’re encouraged to use a hybrid vehicle or to purchase carbon offsets to make up for their pollution.
Inaugural organizers only used biodegradable containers, plates and utensils, made from corn resin. Plastics and Styrofoam were banned. Caterers were instructed to put food scraps, containers and utensils into a “composting stream” that will be taken to a facility in Maryland.
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