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Monday, June 5, 2017

World Environment Day

Today is World Environment Day!   While I think that every day should be considered World Environment Day, I thought it would be nice to acknowledge this day specifically.  

Recently, I have made some lifestyle changes in order to be more friendly to our earth.  Here are some things I've initiated in my life:

  • Buy used! This includes household items, clothes, furniture, etc.  Anything that can be bought used, I try my best to do so. 
  • Use sustainable products!  For years, I have used a Nalgene water bottle, to reduce the use of plastic bottled water.  I also bought a few reusable straws so that I do not have to use plastic ones that get stuck in turtles' noses.  (If you haven't seen that video, don't watch it unless you want to die inside)   I also bought some glass pyrex dishes to carry my lunch in! 
  • Recycle!  I recently moved into a new place and someone stole our recycling bin!  However, that has not stopped us from recycling.  We have a huge pile of cardboard and cans in my kitchen waiting on our new recycling bin. 
  • Borrow/trade!  Is there something you want to read? Borrow it.  You like your friend's shirt? Borrow it.  You don't have a lawnmower of your own? Borrow one.  This saves you from buying new things!
  • Conserve energy!  I'm not sure if you know this but your house does not have to be 65 degrees at all times.  Don't cool your house when no one is there.  Keep your air turned off at night. Yes, I've been sweating a bit more recently but I keep my air off for as long as possible!  In the winter, I plan to use blankets! Lots of them.
    Also, carpool.  Or walk where you can! Just last night, I walked to get dinner instead of driving. Or bike (granted, I don't bike but I would like to)  
  • Use your money as votes!  I am poor and also very cheap so this one is hard for me.  But I try my best to spend money on things I believe in.  Like organic foods, sustainable products, natural products, local businesses, etc.  
  • Eat better!  Personally, I am a vegetarian because I do not support the meat industry and what it does to our environment.  Apparently, it takes 2500 gallons of water to make one pound of meat. THAT SUCKS.  The meat industry exploits the earth, animals, farmers, and employees.  Do yourself a favor and watch Food Inc. right now on Netflix.  


One important thing to remember is that the "environment" is not some separate thing from us.  We are part of the environment.  We make up the environment.  Humans are responsible for the earth.  We are literally the only species that can be held responsible... nothing else is capable.  It is just us! Let's care for Earth, because Earth gives us life and cares for us.


- Keaton 

Pictured: Nalgene water bottle bought from a small business, Nature's Heal All bought locally at Cosmic Connections, Tom's lip balm, Lush moisturizer, book borrowed, shoes thrifted

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