Thinking of having a new year resolution? No matter what goals were accomplished this past year, the new year brings new hopes, new wishes to be fulfilled, new adventures, new intentions and the list goes on. So, let us pause for a moment and look back on all we have achieved together as the NIH Green Zone Newsletter community and re-think our tomorrow as we begin to rewrite it.
We, the Green Zone Newsletter community, began our partnership in 2018 with a handful of staff coming together to draft the first article on NIH recycling. Over the years, we have traveled throughout the NIH and shared our stories of nature’s abundance and how conserving and using resources efficiently help save money, meet regulatory requirements, and protect the environment and human health. Last year alone, several informational topics fostered a culture of change, including YouTube videos on NIH environmental programs and initiatives, minimizing food wastage, etc. We, as a community, communicate with staff who volunteer to speak about their programs, such as the NIH composting program, sharing perspective on the future of ultra processed food and joining the NIH Post-Bac Garden Club. Articles highlighted dedication, passion and zeal of learning and leading new initiatives to reduce environmental impacts.
We have tried to inspire, excite and educate our community through these articles, especially the take action section of the newsletter. Perhaps now is the best time to review this unique section of the latest newsletter to plan this year’s resolution. The article is a compilation of action items from last year for saving costs, conserving resources, minimizing wastage and promoting environmental stewardship.
In retrospect, we have come a long way in creating unforgettable experiences with each of you, and you play a crucial role in making it possible. We look forward to our continued partnership upward and onward in the new year! Let us come together, wishing each other a very bright and prosperous 2026!