Christopher Gavigan, Chief Executive Officer of Healthy Child Healthy World, has dedicated himself to improving the lives of children and families. Christopher believes Eco progress with from steady steps and not necessarily a big leap.

How do you eco?

When it comes to eco-consciousness, no one can do everything but everyone can do something. Going green isn’t about changing your whole lifestyle in the shortest time possible. Its a step by step learning process, you’ll drive yourself crazy if you try to become eco-fied overnight. Banish plastic water bottles for a stainless steel canteen, purchase organic meat over conventional, opening windows daily to circulate and freshen indoor air, using a resuable canvas tote at the grocery store instead of paper bags, and vote for representatives who champion environmental concerns.

Why did you go eco?

I’ve always considered myself an environmentalist, but my shade of green has grown significantly darker since my son was born. I was filled with the hope and excitement of a new parent, and the overwhelming desire to protect and nurture him. I was ready to make any and every change possible to ensure he was growing and maturing in a healthy environment, and that eco-conscious would be instilled from the beginning. So it would be a given for him, not a lightbulb moment as it is for many of us.

I soon realized that the often unsafe and chemical laden world he would grow up in doesn’t prioritize the protection of his health. It must be parents who protect their child from harmful environmental exposures. I embraced whole-heartedly the responsibility of creating a truly green and healthy, nontoxic environment for him, one where he could flourish, and then I could quit worrying!

What’s your favorite eco tips?

Take your shoes off at the door. 85% of the dirt in homes is brought in from the outside. The US EPA’s “Doormat Study” revealed virtually all lead dust inside homes is caused by lead-contaminated soil from outside. Wiping shoes on a straw mat and leaving them at the door reduces lead dust by 60%. You also protect your floors, especially carpeting, from invisible enemies on your shoe soles - dirt, chemicals, bacteria, feces, lead dust, pesticides, animal dander and other pollutants. And less cleaning, who doesn’t love that?

EcoLinks

• Healthy Child Healthy World
• Healthy Child Healthy World The Book
• Baby and Kids
• Environmental Advocacy