Chemicals are part of modern life, and many are very useful in keeping us healthy and comfortable. However, these chemicals end up in the earth’s air, water, and soil and may be harmful when they accumulate or are released into the environment by large numbers of users. Sewage treatment plants cannot remove every chemical that is present in the water that enters the plant. I am not saying you shouldn’t use these products, but please make a conscious decision which to use and which to avoid. Consider alternatives where appropriate.
0 Comments
What can you do with old clothing? Currently, a lot of old clothing (an estimated 10 – 11 tons per year in the US) ends up in landfills. The US EPA estimates that 5% of the contents of landfills consists of clothing. The links to the three articles below provide good ideas and in some cases, links to organizations that will accept old clothing. Here are some ideas:
https://trashisfortossers.com/how-to-recycle-old-clothing https://earth911.com/style/clothing-recycling-mistakes/ I frequently hear that as much as 40% of food in the US is wasted in various stages of production, transport, sales, and by consumers in restaurants and homes. Although we as consumers cannot affect most of what happens before the food gets to the grocery store or restaurant, there are things we can do.
https://www.rd.com/list/13-steps-to-a-zero-waste-kitchen/ “Tread lightly, act kindly and explore mindfully.” These words are from a vow (see the TED video link below) that visitors to Palau are asked to sign when they arrive, to help visitors understand how to protect the environment and culture in Palau. I think these words are a good mantra for me as we go into a new year. Tread lightly upon the earth, reducing your impact on its life and resources. Act kindly to other people and to the plants, animals, and other creatures that share our planet. This includes taking care of the ocean, the lakes and streams, the land, and the air. Explore mindfully, considering the impact of your actions and decisions. Will what you do help leave the world a better place, or at least leave it as you found it? Do some research and mindfully consider facts from multiple reliable sources before you act.
Wishing you a happy and sustainable 2022! https://www.ted.com/talks/children_of_palau_leave_only_footprints_that_will_wash_away |
Archives
May 2024
|