By Ellen Edwards, Chair, Bronxville Green Committee
Apr. 15, 2020: Earth Day 2020 is April 22, 2020. This is the 50th Anniversary of Earth Day and you can tune in to live events here. Here are some other great links with Earth Day information.
Please consider participating in virtual Earth Day events and add your name to the Do Just 1Thing pledge
Earthdayinitiative.org/dojust1thing
As the 50th anniversary of the first Earth Day approaches, I’ve been remembering that joyous demonstration of solidarity on April 22, 1970, and our idealistic belief at the time that we could change the world. I’ve been comparing it with the present moment, in which enthusiastically planned Earth Day 2020 events have had to be scaled back and moved online because we are held hostage by a virulent disease.
The first Earth Day arose from concerns about visible, widespread pollution—smog that in July turned the sky over New York City yellow, midwestern rivers that infamously caught fire, piles of litter that choked waterways, and smokestacks that belched black plumes.
Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring and her testimony before the U.S. Senate about the harmful effects of pesticides were powerfully effective in raising awareness. By the time Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson had the idea of holding a nationwide “teach-in” and harnessing the energy of activists on college campuses to organize events, the country was primed to demand change. According to Earth Day Network, a nonprofit that promotes environmental awareness, on the first Earth Day, 20 million Americans—an astounding 10% of the U.S. population—took part in marches and rallies, filled streets and classrooms. Disparate groups that had been protesting oil spills and toxic dumps, pesticides and endangered wildlife, joined in one united demonstration.
One of the participants was me. As a high school sophomore in Connecticut, my fifteen-hundred fellow students and I took part in an all-day environmental symposium. That experience, and a semester of environmental science, made me a lifelong environmentalist. Now, fifty years later, I feel compelled to ask: What have we achieved in the ensuing decades?
Soon after that first Earth Day, the nascent environmental movement enjoyed significant achievements—Republicans and Democrats joined together to pass the Clean Air, Clean Water, and Endangered Species acts. Congress also created the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Soon, the world around us looked a lot cleaner. But over time, we learned that the health of the natural world was a lot more complex and more compromised than what we could easily see. Even as scientific data began to expand our understanding, scientists warned of a bigger threat: climate change.
I have a vivid memory of a 1970 list of environmental problems in order of importance. At the very bottom was “greenhouse effect.” We didn’t pay it much attention then—there was so much else to worry about!—but I do remember one scientist warning that if the greenhouse effect was as significant as the research suggested, we were all in big trouble.
Of course, he was speaking of what we now know as climate change. And in the past decades scientists have amassed reams of data that firmly establishes what many scientists call “climate collapse.” The planet’s life-sustaining cycles are seriously out of balance and increasingly unable to support life as we know it.
It’s hard to believe this when surrounded by this glorious Bronxville spring. But threatening that spring are concrete dangers, some distant, some invisible. These dangers include: (1) the massive amounts of greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane being released each day that are upsetting the balance of major ecological cycles of air and water (2) the oil wells, fracking processes, and mining operations that ravage the earth, and (3) the tens of thousands of man-made organic compounds that we release into the air and water with little understanding of how they will interact with natural chemical processes.
We’ve accepted these trade-offs as necessary for our comfortable lives, and we’ve been able to isolate ourselves from their worst effects, but scientists are warning that the bill of reckoning is coming due. The terrible pandemic in our midst reminds us again that what we don’t see can harm us.
Recollections of that first Earth Day inspired me to revisit a book that was influential at the time--The Closing Circle by Barry Commoner (Knopf, 1971). Commoner was an outspoken biologist, ecologist, and educator with degrees from Columbia and Harvard, one of the public faces of the early environmental movement.
In his bestseller, I sought clues to how far we humans have come in understanding our impact on the natural world. Two of Commoner’s statements seem as striking and relevant today as they were then.
First
“Suddenly we have discovered what we should have known long before: that the ecosphere sustains people and everything that they do; that anything that fails to fit into the ecosphere is a threat to its finely balanced cycles; that wastes are not only unpleasant, not only toxic but, more meaningfully, evidence that the ecosphere is being driven towards collapse.” (Page 12)
And second:
“In the eager search for the benefits of modern science and technology, we have become enticed into a nearly fatal illusion: that through our machines, we have at last escaped from dependence on the natural environment.” (Page 15)
Today, as we live with conditions that were unimaginable just a few weeks ago, I wonder if now we can also imagine a world upended by the effects of climate collapse. And if consequently we can also envision reordering our personal priorities to take action to prevent the worst consequences.
Can we work together to build a society that is not dependent on fossil fuels? Can we endeavor to restore the natural balances we have upset and create a new world, healthy and whole, in which all life thrives?
Today we feel more than ever just how connected we are—to each other, to nature.
If we take this lesson to heart, if we feel it in our bones and teach it to our children, then there may be hope for a time when every day is Earth Day.
Photo by E. Edwards
Editor's note: As a public service, MyhometownBronxville publishes articles from local institutions, officeholders, and individuals. MyhometownBronxville does not fact-check statements therein, and any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect the thinking of its staff.
Architects
Core Home Inc.
"Through our residential design work, we honor the wisdom of traditional methods and the beauty, texture and conservation properties of natural materials." Whether it is a new build, a renovation or an historic restoration...."
Dean Davis
2 Park Place
Bronxville, New York
914-961-5753
Michael Davis
435 Hudson Street, 8th Floor
New York, New York 10014
212-645-6066
www.michaeldavisarchitects.com
Charlies Hilton Vanderhorn Associates
31 East Elm Street
Greenwich, Ct. 06830
203-862-9011 (tel)
203-862-9196 (fax)
www.hilton-vanderhorn.com
Erica Ellenberger Architect P.C
Erica Ellenberger Architect is a detail-oriented, residential architecture and design practice. Working closely with clients, Erica listens and strategizes to develop creative solutions to meet programmatic objectives, while thoughtfully considering the architecture and aesthetics. As your Architect and your guide, Erica will strive to ensure the design process yields deliberate and engaging spaces for your home.
2 Overhill Rd Ste. 400
Scarsdale, NY 10583
(914) 275-5172
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Scott Koniecko Architects
80 8th Avenue Suite 1600
New York, New York 10011
212-620-3924 (tel)
212-620-7640 (fax)
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Maggie Marrone Architects
914-771-6750
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Peter Pennoyer Architects
432 Park Avenue South, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10016
212-779-9765
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www.ppapc.com
Radoslav Opacic Architects
Radoslav Opacic AIA Architects was founded in 1990 as a full-service architectural firm that combines exceptional design with a commitment to client satisfaction. The Principal, Rad Opacic, provides personalized attention throughout all phases of the design process. With his passion for fine detailing and vast knowledge of the construction process, he has developed a well-earned reputation for finding creative solutions to meet the specific needs and desires of his clients, producing work that is always exquisitely detailed, elegantly proportioned, and uniquely individual.
24 North Astor
Irvington, NY
914-591-4306
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ZS Design Architect, PLLC
Zachary Schweter, R.A.
171 Fordham St.
City Island, NY 10464
T: 914-589-1229
W: www.zs-design.com
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Nicholas Pouder, ASLA
Landscape Architect
1 Askins Place
New Rochelle, NY 10801
914.450.0385
New Milford, CT 860.799.0468
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www.pouder.com
Renee Byers, Landscape Architect P.C.
10 Avon Road
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-337-3103
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www.reneebyers.com
Civil Engineer
Brett Auerhahn P.E.
914-961-2242
Chapin Interiors
Chapin Interiors works closely with clients to blend furniture, fabrics and accessories in a creative mix that makes each newly designed interior as sophisticated, comfortable and unique.
Core Home Inc.
"Through our residential design work, we honor the wisdom of traditional methods and the beauty, texture and conservation properties of natural materials."
Home Design
Modern yet Timeless; Sophisticated yet Contemporary; Polished yet Livable
Bronxville
917-833-3896
www.gailcookco.com
Madeline Eckett Oden Interiors
Madeline Eckett Oden is a Bronxville, New York based interior designer. She crafts carefully designed, personal interiors for discerning clients in Westchester County, Manhattan, and the greater New York area.
Nicole Interior Designs, Inc.
Nicole Interior Designs is a one-stop full service interior design boutique serving Westchester for over 20 years. They carry a wide selection of custom fabrics, furnishings, window treatments and finishes.
Patricia O'Shaughnessy Design
Patricia O'Shaughnessy Design is a full service, residential interior decorating firm.
Samuel Botero Associates, Inc.
215 East 58th Street Suite 6B
New York, New York 10022
212-935-5155
www.botero.com
Sandra Steele Schneider Interiors
70 Burkewood Road
Mount Vernon, New York 10552
914-668-4468
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Serendipity Interior Design, LLC
Catherine Wyner
203-846-0809
or 203-637-9266
Shannon Interiors LTD.
Kelly Shannon Jelensperger, President
81 Pondfield Road #344
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-793-1629 (O)
914-953-7584 (C)
914-793-2195 (F)
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Carpentry
JSB Carpentry Inc.
Home Maintenance Is Our Specialty!
Interior & exterior carpentry new & repairs to keep your home looking beautiful.
Masonry pointing and repairs to steps, walks and stone walls to prevent further damage. Bathroom & kitchen tiles refurbished, cleaned grout, caulking to make tiles look brand new. Installation of De-icing system to roofs, leaders and gutters, to prevent water leaks from ice dam's damage. We have the solutions to help you resolve all your home maintenance needs and more. Please call us for a free estimation and Bronxville references available upon request.
Bus. 845-855-3986
Cell- 914-906- 1637
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James A. Stone
96 Congress Street
Harrison, New York 10528
914-835-0447
Keating Electric & Technologies
115 Wall Street
Valhalla, New York 10595
914-747-9294
www.keatingelectric.com
Lippolis Electric
445 5th Avenue
Pelham, New York 10803
914-738-3550
White Electric, Inc.
128 Fulton Street
White Plains, New York
914-946-5566
www.whiteelectric.com
Arthur Lange Inc.
Arthur Lange Inc., is one of Westchester's most trusted construction management and renovation firms. Many of the area's beautiful and prestigious homes have been renovated, remodeled, enhanced or expanded under its care. The firm, family-owned and fully licensed, approaches every job with a commitment to service and quality. The goal at Arthur Lange Inc., is to ensure that each client is satisfied by its extraordinary dedication to service and is delighted with the high quality of the results. Call today to schedule a complimentary initial consultation.
841 Tuckahoe Road
P.O. Box 993
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-337-4422 (tel)
914-395-0471 (fax)
www.arthurlangeinc.com
Gerry Hickey Construction ("GHC")
HOME MAINTENANCE
-Interior Plaster and Plaster Molding Repairs
-Exterior Stucco & Home Remodeling
914-906-5984
Vincent Franco
R-Men Contracting
179 Summerfield Street
Scarsdale, New York 10583
914-472-7007 (tel)
914-472-0451 (fax)
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Win-Some Contracting, Inc.
Anthony Pici Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
Anthony Pici Plumbing & Heating, Inc. is a locally owned and operated firm that has been servicing the Bronxville community for well over 15 years. We provide detail oriented service from repairing a faucet to complete bathroom renovations. We provide service and installation of all oil and gas heating equipment. If you are looking to update your homes heating system to modern high efficiency equipment, or are looking for a radiant floor heating or snow melt system, let us provide you with a properly designed and installed system. Licensed and insured with professional service technicians trained to keep up with an ever changing industry, we stand behind all our installed products for their lifetime. Let us assist you with your next project.
201 Saw Mill River Rd.
Yonkers, N.Y. 10701-5711
(914) 376-7300 office
(914) 376-7301 fax
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Absolute Comfort & Temperature Control Inc.
Mr. Paul Gomprecht, President
914-761-0529
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www.absolutecomfortcontrol.com
Besson Oil Inc.
140 Marbledale Road
Tuckahoe, New York 10707
914-779-0008
Innovative Air Solutions
29 Elm Street
Tuckahoe, New York 10707
914-793-7700
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www.innovativeairsolutions.com
New York Unique Indoor Comfort
New York Unique Indoor Comfort is the industry leader in home heating and air conditioning. We provide customers with heating and air conditioning service and solutions, not just products. Our expert technicians are trained to maintain and service a variety of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning units. Our relationship with the customer extends beyond installation. We stand committed for the lifetime of your home heating and cooling service, ensuring that you and your family are comfortable, safe, and cost efficient. Four generations of heating and air conditioning industry experience affirm that every potential customer need will be met.
98 Lake Street
White Plains, New York 10604
914.966.0800
www.NewYorkUnique.com
Richards Conditioning Corp.
70 Marbledale Road
Tuckahoe, New York 10707
914-337-0300
Gramatan Lock & Key
27 W Grand St
Mt Vernon, NY 10552
(914) 664-9001
LMC Safe, Lock & Key
Luigi M. Cattzia II
914-241-1583
All Colors Painting Co.
69 Delaware Road
Yonkers, New York 10710
(Johnnie & Joey)
914-964-9148
Mateus Neto Painting Co.
95 Chase Avenue
Yonkers, New York 10703
914-965-9561
Click here to learn more
Gerry Hickey Construction ("GHC")
HOME MAINTENANCE
-Interior Plaster and Plaster Molding Repairs
-Exterior Stucco & Home Remodeling
914-906-5984
Robert Rabsey
914-954-4366
Sunlight Fine Rug Care
Established in 1999, Sunlight Fine Rug Care & Restoration specializes in cleaning and restoring Oriental and Antique hand made rugs including: stain removal, urine smell removal, moth damage repair and moth proofing, color restoration, persian bindings, over casting, repair and replacement of fringe, blocking and restreaching, area rug cleaning and repair, organic rug cleaning and much more. They also offer furniture restoration, re-upholstery and upholstery cleaning as well as wall to wall organic carpet cleaning and curtain cleaning. They serve residential and commercial and offer an annual cleaning as well.
Click here to see what people say about them.
Sunlight fine rug care is a member of Ethical Services. Click here to read about it.
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1-888-810-8120 (office)
1-917-731-4999 (cel)
http://www.sunlightfinerugcare.com/
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Design
Maureen Hackett Landscape Design Inc.
212-768-4242 and 917-494-8084
Nicholas Pouder, ASLA
Landscape Architect
1 Askins Place
New Rochelle, NY 10801
914.450.0385
New Milford, CT 860.799.0468
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www.pouder.com
Renee Byers, Landscape Architech P.C.
10 Avon Road
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-337-3103
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www.reneebyers.com
Frank Bulfamonte & Sons, Inc.
26 Circuit Road
New Rochelle, New York 10805
914-235-1835
Land Productions Inc.
360 Adams Street
Bedford Hills, New York
914-666-8214
Tryforos & Pernice Florist
The Tryforos family has roots in the floral industry since the late 1800's and is privileged to be serving Bronxville since 1963. They deliver and send flowers worldwide.
M-F: 9am-6pm
Sat.: 9am-5pm
73 Pondfield Road
Bronxville, NY 10708
914.337.2525
www.tryforosflorist.com
Rosedale Nurseries
51 Saw Mill River Road, Route 9A
Hawthorne, New York 10532-1598
914-769-1300
Sprainbrook Nursery, Inc.
448 Underhill Road
Scarsdale, New York 10583
914-723-2382
Computer, Network & Internet Services
Gerry McLoughlin
914-337-7084
www.GerryMcL.com
Computer Tutor @ PCI
914-337-1700
www.computertutorpci.com
Geeks on Wheels
Dylan Hall
Harrison, New York 914-562-1800
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www.geeks-on-wheels.net
The Computer Nerds, Inc.
PO Box 31
Bronxville, New York 10708
914-779-7952
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www.thecomputernerdsinc.com
The Dream Foundry, Inc.
Creative Services & Custom Web Development
763-390-9299
http://www.thedreamfoundry.com
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