I have to admit to one big mistake or misstep when it comes to being environmentally aware and conscious in this world. Just like I’ve been with organization, I feel either organized or disorganized, I’ve fallen into the trap of trying to be perfectly eco-conscious or giving up and becoming eco-forgetful. Until I realized one big thing. One very small step makes a big difference. It may not seem like it, but it’s the small decisions we make everyday that can have the biggest impact. We may all want to buy that hybrid vehicle, those super-duper energy efficient appliances, but money and time get in the way of some of our best intentions.
I’ve begun to learn that it’s developing small new habits that build into a pyramid of eco-aware behavior. For example, we’ve begun to separate ourselves from an addiction to paper towels. Using washable dishtowels to wipe up after spills and microfiber cloths for our windows and dusting is just one little thing that has freed us from spending money and adding to our consumption of paper products. There is always shutting off lights when not using them or even holding off turning them on until later in the day. I like that I feel like I’m doing something. I know that I could always do so much more. There is cloth diapering, line drying clothes, or hemp clothing. I can’t change all the things in my life now, but I feel that I’m doing more and more each day and teaching my children along the way.
Now I’m wondering, what will you do today towards a greener way of living?
3 responses so far
1 Candice Oct 2, 2008 at 4:11 am
What I will definitely do is use green laundry and dishwashing tabs. I will not use the heat dry on the dishwasher but let the dishes dry overnight. What I will try to do is use and wash my cup instead of copping out and using the available paper cups at the office. I will try to not run the water tap longer than is absolutely necessary and will try to be mindful of leaving lights on. All small things no doubt but I hold on to the thought that every little bit helps! Still working on trying to beat the paper towel habit!
2 Chris Oct 2, 2008 at 3:12 pm
I try to be mindful of our water usage. My biggest luxury is taking longer showers. Thank you for sharing your ideas with us.
3 Jeanette Oct 5, 2008 at 9:14 pm
Before becoming a mother I don’t think I was so consious of the inmporantce of going green and doing more for the environment and our health than now. I decided that I wanted to provide a safer environment for my family and what better place than to start in our home. I changed my shopping habits. I now shop for only the things we need in our home which are naturally based and environmentally sensitive products for the home and personal care. I continue to work at being marter & safer shopper and continue to get rid of everything that is toxic for my family & home. I know this promotes good health and well being for my family and I wish all families out there would start to do same for their loved ones, because it has defenitely brougth my family better health and wellness in all aspects even financially.
http://www.better4familywellness.com
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