Learning to make the right choices
Posted By MICHELE RICH
Updated 8 months ago
Sustainability, as we have discussed, is all about long term thinking. How does my action today affect the generations of tomorrow? How does it affect my neighbours?
What about the economy here in my community or globally? How can this action, whatever it may be, affect the environment...tomorrow?
I can hear the collective groan from you all as I type. With a resounding "NOW what?" echoing across Collingwood, I assure you all--this does not have to be difficult.
Each one of us can start the process of living sustainably right at home. Our household decisions can promote sustainability.
Just start asking questions.
First question:What are some of the everyday decisions we make and how do they relate to the four root causes of un-sustainability?
What do we (1) DIG out of the Earth's crust or (2) DUMP onto the Earth's surface, or how do we (3) DEGRADE nature or (4) DEMEAN humans?
What opportunities are there to make sustainable decisions?
Let's look at...shopping! Shopping encompasses everything we purchase from things like toothpaste and shampoo to furniture and houses.
How does shopping relate to the four root causes of un-sustainability?
Stuff we buy is often made from or contains materials extracted from the Earth's crust or is made with human-made compounds or chemicals that are building up on the Earth's surface at a rate faster than nature can cope. Often the products we purchase are made in situations where workers are in unsafe or unfair conditions making it difficult for the workers to meet their basic needs.
When shopping make purchasing choices with your eyes wide open. Try to be aware of how products are made, by whom and where.
Ask questions of the companies you are purchasing from about the products and at the same time remember to ask yourself questions like: How was this item manufactured?What's in it? How does this product affect my health or the health of future generations?
Many products, especially body care products, have chemicals that are causing issues for long-term human health. Do I REALLY NEED this product?What will I do with this when I'm either tired of it or I no longer need it?
The final resting place of the majority of items on the market is a landfill. Try to purchase items that can be recycled for smaller items or for larger items ask if the manufacturer will take the whole or part of the product back when you are finished with it.
Critical thinking is the key to sustainability. Ask questions, seek out answers, raise your awareness and in doing so others will come along with you.
Sustainability doesn't mean doing without it just means doing it differently.
Michele Rich is the Executive Director at The Environment Network and has been a student of Sustainability for several years. As past Chair of the Town of Collingwood's Sustainability Committee, Michele is eager to work with the community on their journey towards Sustainability.
Over the coming weeks, the Enterprise-Bulletin is featuring a series of columns discussing sustainability and what it means for the community.
