Greetings from the Sustainability Desk!
The past few weeks have been challenging for many families in Kentucky, especially as Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc on homes and businesses, causing significant loss and damage. This tragedy hit close to home, affecting some members of the Bellarmine
community. Our hearts go out to everyone who is struggling, and we send prayers for strength and resources during these difficult times.
If you were at the Quad at the beginning of the semester, you might have seen the Sustainability Committee at the Involvement Fair. Our goal was to raise awareness about sustainability efforts at Bellarmine and show how you can contribute. It was an exciting
day, with many of you stopping by and sharing valuable input. One suggestion in particular stood out, and I'd like to focus on it today.
Dr. Evanthia Speliotis asked me to remind everyone who drives in and around Bellarmine that idling your vehicle is harmful to the environment—and we all need to stop idling!
Coming from Ghana, where drivers often turn off their engines at traffic lights to conserve fuel, I was surprised to see how many people at Bellarmine keep their cars running, even when parked. Maybe it’s the summer heat, perhaps fuel prices aren’t
as high here, or maybe we just enjoy a quiet space to relax after a long class.
But here are the facts, thanks to a quick search about vehicle idling—and they’re worth considering:
Air Pollution: Idling vehicles release harmful emissions into the atmosphere.
Health: We inhale these toxins, which are damaging to our health.
Increased Fuel Costs: Idling wastes fuel, which means more money spent.
Vehicle Damage: Prolonged idling can harm your engine and reduce its lifespan.
If you’re curious for more details, I encourage you to check out these resources for a deeper dive:
Why Idling is Harmful
Idling Personal Vehicles (PDF)
Reducing Motor Vehicle Emissions
Now, instead of idling in your car, why not take a moment to relax in one of the lovely spots around campus? You could:
Sit under a tree or umbrella in the Quad
Enjoy the comfortable Centro Atrium, with its beautiful greenery
Relax in the outdoor courtyard near the Norton Health Science Center
Even better, why not share your favorite spot on campus to unwind? One of my personal favorites is right in front of the W.L. Lyons Brown Library, where they’ve placed some desks. If there’s music playing, you can hum along while you work—there’s
even a power-supply point to charge your devices! If you’re lucky, you might catch one of my favorite Afrobeats tunes coming through the Bellarmine speakers. Check it out and thank me later!
Remember, our Bellarmine Sustainability meetings are held on the last Thursday of each month, and we’d love to hear your ideas. We’re also working on increasing awareness and are looking for individuals who’d like to contribute content
to our social media pages. Interested or skilled in these areas? Let me know at eakafia@bellarmine.edu.
And like Dr. Speliotis, do you have any thoughts on how we can improve sustainability at Bellarmine? I’m all ears!
Stay safe,
Esther Awovi Akafia
The Sustainability Desk