Ursuline Sisters Work to Protect the Environment

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (March 2008) - In March, the Vatican released a list of new sins for modern times. Among them, damaging or polluting the environment. And, the Ursuline Sisters are already doing their part to ensure a clean and protected environment.

Two Ursuline Sisters Join Protesters in Frankfort

Going to the Legislature -
Sisters Terence Schmitt and Mary Catherine Vukmanic were among 1,200 people who shivered in the cold outdoors while showing their support for House Bill 164, also known as the Stream Saver Bill, and their opposition to mountaintop removal of coal which buries and permanently destroys Kentucky streams and other water sources.

According to a Federal Environmental Impact study removing the coal increased flooding and water treatment costs, altered stream chemistry and temperature and meant a loss of nutrients essential for downstream water quality and aquatic life. Already, the practice of mountaintop coal mining has destroyed 500 miles of Kentucky’s headwater streams.

Going Greener on Campus -
Campus Services Director Rick Raderer is making strides to ensure the entire campus goes green. "We will continue to pick up recycled paper as we have done in the past..." he said. Now, Raderer has added extra bins for bottles, cans and other recyclable materials throughout the campus. Most recently, containers were placed at Brescia Hall and at the Motherhouse for recycled batteries.

Recycling Bins Set Up in Brescia Hall

As we move into the coming months and years, the Ursuline Sisters will continue to work to protect our environment. What we do now can help ensure a safe and clean world for generations to come.