My name is Sara Goddard and I’m an environmental activist, sustainability adviser, and public servant.
Green That Life is your guide for sustainable living. Its mission is to shift public opinion and consumer behavior through informative, inspirational, and original content. GTL provides practical tools, tips, and resources related to a variety of sustainability topics, including waste reduction, pollution prevention, food waste, environmental activism, and more.
I’m excited to guide you to a more sustainable lifestyle that’s healthier for you, your community, and the planet.
The Power of “Ordinary” People to Make Change
My own path to a “green life” began over ten years ago when I was asked to create a sustainability plan for my town. While I had been deeply involved for many years in various civic activities, I had absolutely no idea what a sustainability plan was. I blithely said “sure!” not realizing that this decision would spark numerous changes, not only for myself but for my town.
Over the past decade, I’ve learned the transformational power of an ordinary citizen to accomplish meaningful change. In my case, it was by creating and leading an award-winning group, Rye Sustainability Committee, that passed the first reusable bag law in Westchester County, NY (and third in NY State). I was also the chief architect of the City of Rye’s first Sustainability Plan, an arduous task, but one that has been incredibly fulfilling as I watch the current RSC group work towards fulfilling the Plan’s goals.
With the Rye Sustainability Committee, I discovered that it’s possible to effect real change by leading a dynamic group of “ordinary” volunteers. We not only enacted substantive policies but also prompted a cultural shift in our community. It has been thrilling to observe the emerging pride among Rye residents as they recognize that their town is now considered a model of sustainability and green initiatives.
Since then, I’ve been asked to speak, consult, and guide other groups and communities with their civic initiatives. While listening, my message has always been consistent: In order to inspire others to take action with you, it’s important to know your community, work, and partner with others, and always be positive in your approach.
What Does This Mean for You?
On a personal level, the message for you is the same:
- Know yourself and your strengths.
- Work to encourage change in your family and with friends.
- Always be positive as you work towards making change.
You too can make a change in your life. And, if you’re inspired to do so, you can help others make a change too. I’m here to help.
How to Green That Life
My goal with this site is to share my experiences and knowledge with you to help you “green” your life.
It goes beyond helping you find the tools to make your life green. I’ll definitely help you with those, but I’ll also help you discover a new way of living… one in which the foundation is a sustainable lifestyle for yourself, your family, and your community.
What does that mean?
- It means you don’t beat yourself up when you toss an apple core in the garbage instead of the compost bin – but you actually understand the underlying importance of reducing food waste. (And the next time you’ll remember to compost the apple core!)
- It means that when you need answers, inspiration, or have questions about how to green your life, you can find them here. And if the answers aren’t on the site, I’ll be here to help you find them.
- It means that instead of throwing up your hands and saying one person can’t make a difference, I’ll help empower you with the confidence and skills to make that change for yourself, your community, or on a larger stage. I did, and I know you can too.
My goal is to help you re-frame your lifestyle so that your actions, small or large, are made within an exciting new framework.
Where Do I Start? How Do I Start?
It can be overwhelming to know where or how to start. Try these simple tips to get you on your way.
About Sara Goddard
Sara Goddard is the founder and former chair of the City of Rye Sustainability Committee, a volunteer group that established a legislative track record by drafting and spearheading legislation that was first of its kind in Westchester County, NY.
Rye Sustainability has been recognized locally and nationally, and its presence has extended beyond Rye’s borders by establishing a network of groups, organizations, and legislators.
Sara is currently a member of the Rye City Council. Her other civic work, past and present, includes:
- Founder; Chair (former); City Council Liaison, Rye Sustainability Committee
- Founding Board Member, Treasurer, Exec. Committee, Sustainable Westchester
- Appointee, Zero Waste subcommittee, Westchester Climate Crisis Task Force
- Appointee (former); City Council Liaison, Rye Conservation Commission Advisory Council
- City Council Liaison, Rye Board of Architectural Review
- Board Member, Jay Heritage Center
- Appointee, NY Rising Community Reconstruction Plan, which helped determine the allocation of disaster relief funds in the aftermath of Hurricanes Sandy and Irene
- Vice President (former), Federated Conservationists of Westchester County
- Board Member; Conservation Chair (former), Rye Garden Club
- Auxiliary Board (former), Rye Nature Center