Celebrate Green Blog

by Lynn and Corey

Lisa Sharp is one of those myriad “ordinary” women, whose interest in environmentalism has translated into a passion not only to share her view with others via her blog, Retro Housewife Goes Green, but also to encourage and support local change by doing rather than by just talking.

From her small town in Oklahoma, where living green isn’t mainstream, she is working hard to make it so. Recently she launched the site Green Oklahoma, as a resource for those in her state who do want to learn about and support environmental environmental issues in her state.

1. You are working to bring awareness of the pollution issue with a local cement plant. Tell us about this.

Currently I’m mostly doing research on the health effects of the cement plant in my town. I’m also trying to raise more awareness to this issue. I have written a few articles on my blog about the health and environmental effects of cement plants. I also hosted a blog carnival with the Green Moms Carnival about cement plants. And I have started a Facebook page to help make locals aware of the problems.

Cement plant pollution is an issue even the environmental community seems to often overlook. Cement is even used in LEED certified buildings because it’s non-toxic once it’s made. This however over looks the production which is highly toxic. The cement plant in my town, Ada, Oklahoma, for example gives off things like ammonia, benzene, certain glycol ethers, chromium, diethanolamine, dioxin and dioxin-like compounds, ethylene glycol, lead, manganese, mercury, sulfuric acid, and zinc compounds. There also is a huge amount of energy used to make the cement. It’s an issue we really need to be talking about more and reminds us that green should start with the raw materials and production.

2. Why is the environment your passion and not some other cause?

The environment encompasses all of the causes that are dear to my heart. I don’t think you can’t ignore the environmental issues when you care animals or people. Without the environment no other cause matters.

3. What is your toughest personal challenge in trying to live a greener life?

There have been a few challenges for me. One is that Oklahoma is not one of the most environmentally friendly places to live, thankfully that is changing. However, as a very conservative state there are people who want nothing to do with the movement. Sen. Inhofe of Oklahoma is quoted as saying “Much of the debate over global warming is predicated on fear, rather than science.” and this is a commonly held view here. I have been met with resistance from many in my community. This is part of why I started the site Green Oklahoma . Many in this state do care a lot about the environment but have a hard time finding where to start so I put it all in one place.

Whether you’re in Oklahoma or not, check out Lisa’s sites, Retro Housewife Goes Green and Green Oklahoma.

Is there someone you know who would make a great “3 Question Interview” subject? Let us know!

Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson are mother and daughter and authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, and founders of Green Halloween®.