Sustainability

Hello for today.  I have recently run across a very cool website about "people-powered sustainability."  Actually, my sister, H, sent me the link and I am digging the site.  Thanks, H!  It covers a variety of different avenues to encourage sustainability.

What is sustainability?  Wikipedia, the free online encyclopedia defines that sustainability, in the most general sense, is the "capacity to endure."  I think that is an excellent explanation.  Ecologically, the word refers to how biological systems remain diverse and productive in the long term.  In regards to humans, it is the long-term maintenance of well-being and health.  This personal health depends directly on our environment and a responsible use of natural resources.  The difficult part of sustainability is that it always refers to the long term.  We, as humans and particularly Americans, do not excel at the long term.  We prefer instant gratification and short term results.   Nevertheless, it is very important to consider how today's actions will affect tomorrow.

Here are some excellent ways for you to ensure the Earth's sustainability:

1.  Patronize the local farmer's market.  Support the responsible small farmer who is more passionate about his crops and animals than out to make the big bucks.

2.  Try to utilize biodegradable soaps and detergents.  Phosphate run offs in our fresh water streams and lakes is a large problem for the fish and aquatic life.  There are some excellent alternatives to harmful traditional soaps and detergents (and are becoming more accessible at stores such as Target and Walmart).  Companies such as Seventh Generation, Dr. Bonner's and even Palmolive make phosphate free, biodegradable soaps and detergents.

3.  Plant some greenery.  Whether you plant a tree, a small herb garden, or a whole vegetable garden (I'm working on this), plants are essential to the Earth's biosphere.  It is a simple way to make a difference.

4.  Be conscious of the resources you utilize.  Try to use a little less.  We all tend to be wasteful of water and electricity.  Bathe your kids together or use rainwater on your lawn.  Turn the unwatched TV off.  Weatherize your house.  The nice trade-off here is a lower cost for you wallet.

5.  Raise your children to respect the environment.  Simple things you teach them will carry on.  Have you ever noticed how you tend to buy the things your mother bought?  Used her brands?  It will be the same with your children.  Install positive, sustainable practices now.

There are a multitude of things I could list here and probably will expand in the future, but for now, these 5 are a simple way to start.  Oh, and check out that website:

http://www.sustainlane.com/

--EM