A Special Announcement
I wrote Keep Me Afloat with the intention of making a difference. As a writer, I believe it’s my responsibility to lend my voice to important issues that affect us all—and all life depends on the health of our oceans. For the first three months my book is available, I’ll donate 30% of my proceeds (net royalties earned) to the following organizations: World Wildlife Fund, SeaLegacy, and a local nonprofit benefiting the Southern Resident Killer Whales, the Center for Whale Research.
About the Organizations
World Wildlife Fund is a leading conservation organization present in over 100 countries. They’ve been around for nearly 60 years and blend “cutting-edge conservation science with the collective power of our partners in the field” to create solutions to protect species and habitats around the globe.
SeaLegacy is a nonprofit group of renowned photographers, filmmakers and storytellers founded by conservation photographer Christina Mittermeier and National Geographic photographer Paul Nicklen. SeaLegacy focuses on conservation through visual storytelling. They aim to inspire action and hope while shedding light on ocean-specific concerns all around the globe.
Center for Whale Research is a nonprofit group in the Pacific Northwest “dedicated to the study and conservation of the Southern Resident killer whale (orca) population.” The Southern Resident Killer Whales are the most researched population of whales in the world—and are currently endangered. Many people in the Pacific Northwest know these whales by name.
These donations are not affiliated with Lake Union Publishing, Facebook, Instagram, or the charities themselves. I will personally make donations after the reception of my royalty payments and share updates with my fans.
An Incomplete List of Ideas for Living More Sustainably
Researching my novel Keep Me Afloat — about a marine biologist living on the Olympic Peninsula of Washington — inspired me to ask questions and change my habits.
As a writer, I believe it’s my responsibility to lend my voice to the species that cannot speak up for themselves. It is my hope is that my stories inspire others to learn about the Puget Sound and other cherished habitats all over the globe.
Living sustainably doesn’t have to be complicated, boring, or done all at once. None of us are perfect, but if we all care, we can work together to save the populations most threatened by our actions.
Here’s an incomplete list of simple ways you can live more sustainably. If you have suggestions for additional tips, don’t hesitate to reach out! Remember that daily, incremental efforts can make a significant difference.
Buy reusable grocery and produce bags (I especially like washable mesh bags for my produce).
Buy a reusable water bottle and make it your BFF.
Ditch heavy-duty cleaning products/detergents and make your own.
Buy less stuff and instead give experiences—like humane whale watches, nature walks, and more.
Use reusable wrapping fabric or gift bags for gift-giving occasions.
Eat more sustainably—buy from local farmers whenever possible, and never eat farmed fish.
Use shampoo and conditioner bars (ever since I switched over to Ethique, my hair feels softer, cleaner, and I spend less on shampoo — plus, no bottles!).
Bamboo toothbrushes!
Walk, ride your bike, take transit when you can.
Watch more David Attenborough documentaries (and documentaries with other narrators, if you want—you don’t have to be as picky as my main character, Abby).
Vote in favor of the environment. Read more on that here.
Donate to organizations that are advocating for the environment (more on that below!).
Eat less meat and more vegetables.
Educate yourself: read articles and stay current on climate change news and politics in your area.
Let’s also note that due to convenience, expense, and other factors, many aspects of “going green” are a privilege. No one deserves to be shamed for what they can and cannot do. Read about more ways you can help the Southern Resident Orcas.
Organizations I Love
Organizations benefiting the Salish Sea and Surrounding Habitats:
National Organizations
The Seattle Times has covered the Southern Resident Orcas in depth — you can read more about the Southern Residents here. I also highly recommend The Breath of a Whale by Leigh Calvez, which not only covers Puget Sound orcas, but other magnificent whale species all over the globe.