Blog
An Earth Day Message
By Matt Berghuis
Friends,
As we approach Earth Day on April 22, it’s important to reflect on the urgent need for action to address climate change. The recent report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) confirms that the planet is getting hotter, with the Earth’s surface having already warmed by 1.1 degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times and is on track to warm by at least another 1.5 degrees Celsius by the end of the century.
The report also states that human activities, particularly the burning of fossil fuels, are the main cause of global warming and associated climate changes. The impacts of climate change are already being felt, including more frequent and intense heatwaves, droughts, floods, wildfires, as well as rising sea levels and ocean acidification.
The IPCC report underscores the critical need for urgent and significant action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. The longer we wait to take action, the more difficult and costly it will be to address the impacts of climate change.
I believe we have a responsibility to reduce our environmental impact and promote sustainable practices. I am proud of the hard work we are doing to develop renewable energy solutions that help to mitigate climate change and support a sustainable future. Fueled in part by the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act we have an opportunity to shape the future of the world and continue making progress towards a cleaner, greener planet.
As the BBC puts it, “It’s amazing to think that the decisions we make around the world over the next seven years will echo down the centuries.” This Earth Day, let’s reflect on this quote and consider the impact that our choices today will have on future generations. We encourage you to take action at home to reduce your environmental impact. Here are some simple solutions you can try:
- Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle: Reduce your waste by using reusable bags, containers, and water bottles. When possible, choose products made from recycled materials.
- Conserve Energy: Turn off lights and unplug electronics when you’re not using them. Upgrade to energy-efficient appliances and install programmable thermostats.
- Choose Sustainable Transportation: Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation when possible. Consider purchasing an electric or hybrid vehicle.
- Plant Trees: Planting trees is a simple and effective way to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
- Support Renewable Energy: Consider switching to a renewable energy provider, such as wind or solar power.
These small changes can make a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint and protecting the environment. Let’s renew our commitment to these values and work together to make a positive impact on the environment. Together, we can make a difference and create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
References:
BBC: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-65013560
IPCC Report: https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/syr/downloads/report/IPCC_AR6_SYR_SPM.pdf
About The Boldt Company
The Boldt Company (Boldt) is a leading professional construction services firm with customers across the United States and is a subsidiary of The Boldt Group. Founded in 1889, Boldt is a fourth-generation family and employee-owned firm headquartered in Appleton, Wisconsin. Focused on innovation, continuous improvement, and Lean principles, Boldt is recognized as a pioneer in Lean construction and in the industrialized construction space. Boldt operates 18 offices across the U.S. that serve customers in healthcare, power, industrial, education, automotive and commercial markets.
