Eco-Minded

Becoming more with less.

[eco-minded]

Blazing new trails on my lunch hour. • Grateful to be employed one again. The new office is in a beautiful location surrounded by old farm houses, fields of wildflowers and trails. ❤️ (at Colborne, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bn9SrijB23a/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=149opekalkcdh

[eco-minded]

We've had some cooler weather in Eastern Ontario and carbonating has become fairly difficult. . My boyfriend, a brewer, suggests more sugar or a longer carbonation period. Any advice on this? . (this is my first attempt at #hibiscuskombucha) . . . #hibiscuskombucha #kombucha #hibiscus #kombuchaaddict #kombuchabrewing #homemadekombucha #probiotics #kombuchalove #homemade #guthealth #homebrewkombucha #fermentedtea #kombuchalover #fermenteddrinks #flavouredkombucha #hibiscustea #scoby #makeyourown #diy (at Trenton, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnzL4KyhUuJ/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1fzhjqlc9515t

[eco-minded]

This week was one of the most frustrating I've ever experienced. I came home today feeling like I'd never be able to disconnect from work and decided to take a walk to try and calm my mind. I'm so grateful the universe has gifted me with these neighbours. Kindhearted (and faceless) strangers with a #littlefreelibrary on their lawn. Thank you. I needed this tonight. ❤️ . . . #kindness #caring #passongoodvibes #passthegood #zerowaste #thrift #regift #love #compassion #wellness https://www.instagram.com/p/BnugXVqBf1P/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1y15d6619qszz

[eco-minded]

I'm happy to bike across town to take advantage of your #zerowaste shopping program @bulkbarnfoods. But damn, your stores could sure use some bike racks. I hope this is the next #environmentallyfriendly project you set your sights on. @brodiebikes #zw #waste #reduceplastic #plasticfree #zerowastehome #zerowasteshopping #bikecommuter (at Trenton, Ontario) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnH7AL0BQRD/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1ee70qjhctol1

[eco-minded]

Do you really need a reusable straw?

By now, we all know plastic straws are harmful to the environment: they are non-biodegradable; release toxic chemicals (BPA’s) when they do eventually break down; and they find their way into our waterways and marine life.

But do you really need to run out and buy a reusable straw? It is after all, not going to save the environment. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t care either. The following is a look at the most popular kinds of reusable straws (stainless steel, bamboo, paper, glass) and the main complaints that come along with owning them.

Of course, the most environmentally friendly option is not to use a straw at all. But I get that it’s not always possible. Some people need to use straws. Disabled people felt completely forgotten about in the Starbucks straw ban decision, causing the multi-million dollar chain to slightly backpedal on their commitment. Then there are those with teeth sensitive to cold and hot temperatures who feel a straw protects their pearly whites, enamel and prevents cavities. And people who just plain like slurping through a straw. That’s OK too.

Consider these issues and workarounds before hitting checkout on your next Amazon order.

1) Convenience

Source: The Zero Waste Memoirs

Let’s face it. Reusable straws, cups, tupperwares and bags can be hard to remember. But that doesn’t mean you can’t instill positive habits on yourself. Try creating a “zero waste kit” like in the photo above, with reusable napkins, cutlery, straws and whatever else you might need when out and about. Keep your kit somewhere you’ll always have it, like in your car, purse or backpack and instantly feel less guilty when you find yourself in a drive-thru or checkout line.

2) Sanitation Issues

While straws in the stainless steel variety are thought of as sanitary, they can come in odd shapes and thin airways that make them difficult to clean and inspect. Other varieties, like bamboo, an all natural and easy to produce straw, stay wet for a lengthy period of time. If not dried properly and can encourage bacteria or mold growth.

Source: Whale Oil

What you can do is purchase a brush made with synthetic fibers if it doesn’t come with your straw. Unfortunately, your straw brush will eventually break down and need to be disposed of. Another option is to try boiling your stainless steel straw in hot water then submerging it in vinegar for a few hours. Just be sure to let the straw cool down if you’re boiling it.

3) Longevity

Certain varieties, plastic and paper, are not a permanent solution; they need to be replaced. Paper in particular, becomes soggy and flimsy when in use and won’t likely see a second Sangria.

All you can do is try to determine if your paper straw can be composted like your bamboo straw could be. Though a more sustainable option than plastic, you will unfortunately, be buying more straws in the future.

4) Fragility

Source: eBay

Shattering glass straws, in particular, is a worry for some. I personally hold the fear of swallowing a shard of glass from a cracked drinking glass. While metal straws may come dishwasher safe, glass straws most certainly are not.

In the case of glass, be careful with it. Get a protective case for your straw. Treat it like you would a pair of prescription glasses or your grandmother’s expensive china: keep it someplace safe, off the ground and away from children.

Source: Strawsome

Before Buying, Ask Yourself: Do you really need a straw?

✘ Is something physically preventing you from being able to consume your drink?

✘ Can you just remove the lid to drink?

✘ Do your teeth hurt when exposed to hot or cold?

✘ Can you use a reusable cup and lid instead?

✘ Do you really need that specific drink?

✘ Can you request your drink be served sans straw?

✘ Can you just drink water instead?

[purplebuddhaquotes]

“If you love somebody, let them go, for if they return, they were always yours. If they don’t, they never were.”

—

Kahlil Gibran

[zerowasteandbees]

PLEASE REBLOG IF YOU POST

- zero waste

- minimal waste

- low waste

- vegetarianism 

- christian lgbtqa+ content

- vegetarian recipes 

- (beginner) vegetarian recipes 

- eco friendly/positive content

[fullyhappyvegan]

Useful information!

[lilmoth95]

France becomes first country to ban all plastic cups and plates to save environment

France has passed a new law to ensure all plastic cups, cutlery and plates can be composted and are made of biologically-sourced materials. The law, which comes into effect in 2020, is part of the Energy Transition for Green Growth – an ambitious plan that aims to allow France to make a more effective contribution to tackling climate change. Although some ecologists’ organisations are in favour of the ban, others argue that it has violated European Union rules on free movement of goods.

[eco-minded]

Is the Keystone XL Worth The Fight? [BOOK REVIEW]

Trespassing Across America: One Man's Epic, Never-Done-Before (and Sort of Illegal) Hike Across the Heartland by Ken Ilgunas (2017)

Trespassing Across America: One Man's Epic, Never-Done-Before (and Sort of Illegal) Hike Across the Heartland by Ken Ilgunas (2017) is one late 20-somethings journey along the proposed route of the Keystone XL Pipeline (KXL). He treks solo from Hardisty, Alberta to Port Arthur, Texas, with nothing more than a 40lb backpack and a reliance on total strangers. 

At the time of his hike (2012-2013), the pipeline had already been contentious, as the proposed route would intersect an environmentally sensitive area in Nebraska and hundreds of protestors, including celebrities like Daryl Hannah, had been arrested for civil disobedience protesting the pipeline. Shortly after his trek was complete, the Obama Administration vetoed the KXL and the war against oil became ever the more turbulent with protests, demonstrations and a burning hate for those on either sides of the pipeline debate.

Ilgunas welds admirable writing skill. He has a knack for painting natural landscapes, sharing his life outlook, describing the political landscape, and transitions effortlessly between trek, historical fact, personal interests, insights on people, and socio-economic issues related to the pipeline that are easily overlooked. The format he chose kept me interested to hear more - I should probably admit here that I listened to the audiobook. I admired how incredibly likeable and rational Ilgunas is. As this novel was suggested to me as an environmental piece, I was surprised that Ilgunas was’t the “high and mighty environmentalist” one might expect, but instead a young, intelligent and freethinking guy, who is somewhat disillusioned with North America and politicians. He echoes the struggle of being an environmentalist, yet thinking, “Is there anything we can do about it? Do I even care?” Her also holds a balanced view when it comes to our warming planet: he doesn’t know what will happen and doesn’t pretend to.

Unfortunately, this book won’t give you ammunition against the KXL. Ilgunas didn’t present any hard facts on carbon emitting from pipeline, and wasn’t even 100% sure that that building it is bad thing. He did however, make some compelling arguments against the pipeline. Construction of the KXL will indeed create jobs, however, the maintenance of the pipeline will only make about 35 permanent ones thereafter. To those who claim “North American oil, for North Americans”, that’s not correct either. Oil from the KXL will be shipped to foreign markets. Take the highly contested Trans Mountain Pipeline (Kinder Morgan) for example,  that oil is to be shipped to Asian markets.

Though this book was suggested to me as an environmental piece, I would not classify it as such. Ilguna’s journey is best read as a thoughtful travel peace. In it he discovers that the Great Plains are anything but plain. Instead they are open, expansive, rolling, and with an eventful and easily forgotten history. The discovery was one of loving and trusting in your fellow man. Humans, a species that has everything to lose from environmental destruction

[gahdamnpunk]

YOO SPREAD THE WORD PEOPLE

[ryokoson]

Save a marker, SPREAD THE WORD!!!!

[oolathurman]

It’s called the crayola colorcycle program! As on its FAQ, they mention the following:

“Crayola ColorCycle will accept all brands of plastic markers, not just Crayola markers. That includes dry erase markers and highlighters! ColorCycle will eliminate placing hundreds of tons of markers into landfills.”

There do seem to be some limits, however, as far as I can tell, anyone can ship in a box of markers. “Any sturdy cardboard box with minimal outer markings will work. The more markers you ship, the more efficient this program will be. We suggest a minimum of 100 markers and a maximum of up to 40 pounds.”

[lizzieinthesky]

Also, look for the Crayon Initiative. 

Their whole things work with used, donated crayons they melt and make new ones to donate to children’s hospitals. 

[zero-initiative]

This is a really good idea, especially if you are trying to find an economic friendly way to get markers or crayons out of your abode without throwing them in the trash

[eco-minded]

Why do we condescend to those those with different zero waste practices than ourselves instead of commending one another's commitment to the environment?

Me

[eco-minded]

I Lost Myself...

Hey,

Sorry I haven’t been around much lately.

In May, I lost my job. It didn’t seem like a big deal at first...  I mean, I’d been praying for an out. Watching children and teens soak up the summer rays with envy as I would trudge back to my desk.

When this happened, all of the structure I’d built up around my life crashed down. I’m ashamed to admit it, but life as I know it is built around a foundation of work. 

Every morning I would wake up early, run or swim, take an hour long walk at lunch or be immersed between the pages of a book. I’d eat nutritious foods with little packaging and spend hours meal prepping. Weekends I made a point to work on my blog, mend broken things and perfect my garden. All that ceased to happen in a single day.  

Before long, I was depressed. Everything I had worked so hard for was gone and I had nothing to show for it. 

I tried to run away from it. 

I took off to Europe for three weeks (forgoing employment insurance, for a time). It was beautiful.  And life changing. But not in the way, I thought it would be. 

Usually when I travel, I come home pulsating with confidence. Other worldly. Open. Free. Beautiful. This time I came home smaller. Humbled. Unsure of who I am and where I’m even going...

I started feeling distant with my partner. Started abusing my body. Gained weight. Stopped writing. Stopped being an environmental warrior and instead quieted myself as I watched the world burn. 

I wish I could say I fixed things, but I really haven’t. Meaning is slowly creeping back into my days as I start to re-build. I’m applying for jobs, but not really getting anywhere. I’m adding new skills, but not banging my pride drum for all to hear and see. I still care about the state of our world, but want to refine my focus a little bit. 

One of my biggest frustrations over the last little while, has been the people close to me and their actions towards to environment. I care about them deeply, but just wish they would take pause and consider the impact of their actions. I know this isn’t a problem specific to myself, it is something that pains lots of us. 

So here it is, my new mission:

Help my eco-conscious allies inspire those around us to consider the environment. I want environmentalists to emulate a positive influence on others without condensation or judgement. The time has come for “environmentalism” to become a positive word rather than a negative.

Our world deserves better.

[growinglikeweeds-blog1]

Eat more foods with biodegradable wrappers! 💚

[theminimalisthufflepuff-blog]

“Minimalism is asking ‘why’ before you buy.”

— Francine Jay

[eco-minded]

❤️

[fullpraxisnow]

[nympherret]

like how much more obvious does this need to be made for people to get it?

[strangelybeautifulworld]

this isnt even an exaggeration 

like at all

[donsinclaire-deactivated2019091]

And some people still won’t get it

[eco-minded]

Truth.

[eco-minded]

Officially in love with cherry season. 🍒😍❤️☀️ ~ The sour cherry kombucha is super tart and carbonated so well. I think I need to start adding more sugar to my recipes. #kombucha #homemade #cherry #sour #booch #boocha #makeyourown