Fort Bragg, North Carolina, home of the 82nd Airborne Division and Special Forces Green Berets, has set itself apart with its plans for a sustainable future, reported the Fayetteville Observer. The army base recently showcased its green initiatives to the public in the Green Living & Design Tour. Among the improvements to the 160 acre base are a new greenway for soldiers and families to use for exercise and commuting, and a transition to more efficient biofuel-powered shuttles which reduce emissions by 20 percent. The base is also in the second phase of its street tree planting project which will add up to 300 more trees to the 180 planted in 2009. Fort Bragg’s 12-year old recycling program continues to grow and generate revenue that is funneled back into an agency which provides assistance and community programs for military families. On the sustainable fuel front, the base has successfully been able to convert used cooking oil into biofuel. Since the spring, the processing unit has produced 250 gallons of biodiesel which is used for support machinery like forklifts. Tactical vehicles, however, are not anticipated to make the switch. Plans for the future include finding more opportunities to implement the use of alternative energy and retrofitting base infrastructure into LEED silver certified buildings.

How can you Do Your Part?

Do Your Part and consider projects that can make your own home more sustainable by conserving energy or decreasing your reliance on finite fossil fuels. One smart project to undertake this season is weatherizing your home. Doing so will reduce the demand your home has on the energy grid and other energy resources used to keep your house comfortable. This DYP column features a few DIY projects that can help you get started. When it comes to fossil fuels, start by reducing your dependence on your vehicle. Cycling is a zero-emission way to get to work or school and get in shape. In this DYP feature, Terri gets expert advise on how commuters can ditch their car for a bicycle. Other alternatives include carpooling or tapping into public transit. At home, declare independence from oil by upgrading your lawn equipment. Electric equipment like mowers and leaf blowers are better for the environment and have no need for oil changes.