How could the Indigenous people have gone so long without clean water? This is the question every Canadian should ask themselves. Could you imagine getting up and boiling your own water every day? What about avoiding a shower because the water is so disgusting you can’t stand the smell? These are some of the issues a person faces in the Indian Reserves of Canada (IRC) today. How is it still possible that a fundamental right to clean water has been ignored all these years? Well our POLI 2200 class set out to discover just that! We chose to cover the city of Iqaluit since this place has recently captured headlines across Canada. It has awakened Canadians to the disheartening of a 40-year-old promise. A promise the Canadian government never kept.
The latest water contamination in Iqaluit became Justin Trudeau’s social media nightmare. So he pledged to give the city $241 million dollars towards the replacement and repairs of the existing Infrastructure. What we need NOW is more accountability for their neglected Indigenous right. For their constitutional, and human right to clean drinking water. The health and well-being of every Canadian matter. In honor of Indigenous people’s month, we want to raise awareness. Awareness of the ongoing saga for clean drinking water on First Nation Reserves across the country. Call to Action! Contact your local MLA and ask them to end drinking water advisories in Canada.
Recently a spike in human suffering has risen around the world. This pandemic has bubbled over emotions brewing under the surface. So now we’re seeing outbursts of racial tensions, hunger, and anger. People are in a mad search to find things that are the most important in everyone’s life. This anger comes from suffering an acute case of “world order”.
Historically, pockets of tension have already risen up to create awareness. But, all around the world, their rise and fall eventually fade away. The world’s sense of order remains intact and its business, as usual.
The struggle to get those things most important to everyone’s life
People who “fight the system” want a sense of order. This order would give them the right to live free from persecution. The trouble today is the distribution of wealth is so badly skewed. Therefore, making it near impossible to fix fundamental social issues. People want to live their dreams, capture happiness, and enjoy life. But, segregation from these values is the root cause of poverty around the world.
So, how do we make everyone’s life great? The definition of greatness can mean so many things! But, to me, I believe it’s achieved by solving more problems than we create! There is one organization that dedicates it’s time to solving problems made by the current world order.
The United Nations is well respected and one of the most recognized symbols in the world. It’s a panel of sovereign states bound by a treaty that acts as a charter. This charter was created after World War 2 to prevent wars in the future. Its duties include but are not limited to maintaining peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
They’ve created 17 sustainable development goals that are important in everyone’s life. It’s basically a framework that will give the people in the developing world sustainable lives. These people want to live more like us.
END POVERTY
The good news is extreme poverty has declined over 25% in 25 years. However, the bad news is COVID-19 threatens this progress. The World Institute For Development, Economics & Research has issued a warning. Global poverty will increase by 8% within the global population. Nobody wants to live in poverty. The means for a living is one of the things most important in everyone’s life.
ZERO HUNGER
Wars and conflicts coupled with climate change and economic downturns have caused hunger to increase over the past five years. A quarter of a billion people are at extreme risk of starvation! Only a profound change will manage to feed those in need and the additional 2 billion people expected by 2050.
GOOD HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
This umbrella of well-being supports women and children. Children 5 and under that live in poverty in Sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Yemen have a poor chance of survival. So, they’re educating women in contraception and maternal health. It’s the continuing fight of diseases such as Malaria, AIDS, Hepatitis, and Tuberculosis. So that global incidence will decrease. The UN has also proposed a goal for universal health care.
QUALITY EDUCATION
It’s hard to believe that there is still 617 million youth who lack basic math, reading, and writing skills! 50% of these children struggle to get an education because of regional conflicts. All children should have equal opportunity to access all levels of education every step of the way. Knowledge is one of the things most important in everyone’s life.
GENDER EQUALITY
Currently 1 in 5 women between the ages of 15 – 49 experience physical or sexual abuse by their partner. Giving girls confidence is important. The best way to help is by giving opportunities for quality education and leadership roles. Laws should soon pass so children won’t be forced into early marriages. The violence still happens today and unfortunately, the COVID pandemic is working to reverse the limited progress.
CLEAN WATER AND SANITATION
Billions of people don’t have access to clean water! As a matter of fact, 1 in 3 people worldwide DO NOT have access to clean drinking water at all! This number is deplorable. What’s even worse, it’s the children that suffer the most. Up to 1000 die each day from preventable water-related diseases. It’s a sad state of affairs for so many and it needs to change. Everyone should have universal access to safe drinking water. Not to mention, reducing pollution to improve water quality. They’ll do this by building support for infrastructure to developing countries.
AFFORDABLE AND CLEAN ENERGY
Affordable technology that promotes clean energy is becoming a reality. So much money was sunk into this industry from both the public and private sector. Nevertheless, there are still 3 billion people that use dirty cooking fuels. The efficiency of fuel is a necessity to reduce Greenhouse gases. Improving fuel options and simultaneously giving electricity to those in need can be difficult to keep GHG emissions down. However, government policy options should provide the basis for more effective change.
DECENT WORK AND ECONOMIC GROWTH
The trouble with this picture is that we should not have economic growth just to have decent work. The issue with economic growth is it undermines sustainable land practices, water practices, and climate action. More actions is needed to change government policy. The least developed countries need a boost in the employment sector. So young people have an opportunity in safe formal employment. Gender and racial inequalities must be addressed to prevent pay gaps. A decent job is one of the things most important in everyone’s life.
INDUSTRY, INFRASTRUCTURE, AND INNOVATION
In recent years, there’s been a decoupling of CO2 and industrialization. The manufacturing industry has decreased carbon emissions. Between 2010 and 2016 emissions reduced by 3% annually. Yet, there was an increase in infrastructure in developing countries. Between 2010 and 2017 infrastructure reached a total of 32%. Innovations are the key to find lasting solutions to sustainable industrialization. However, there is still not enough support to help the least developed countries.
REDUCED INEQUALITIES
The issue of equal treatment has become a hot topic fueled by COVID-19 and racial tensions. The world has to relearn language and assumptions that have been taught throughout the years. The UN suggests there has been some progress in reducing relative income opportunities in some countries. Plus, there’s now more overall preferential trading with lower-income countries. However, COVID-19 has further widened the gap in existing inequalities. SO there’s a lot of work to do! Notably, boost developing country’s economies by giving them special treatment. Countries that struggle with conflict and climate change must migrate. Facilitating an orderly well-managed migration policy is key.
SUSTAINABLE CITIES AND COMMUNITIES
There are not very many sustainable cities in the world. More than half of the world’s population lives in the city. Global City’s are responsible for 60% of the world’s GDP. Nonetheless, they’re also responsible for 70% of global carbon emissions. Another issue is the speed of which land is urbanized. If this happens too fast it results in an increased number of slums. The plan to increase sustainable urbanization and simultaneously reduce the environmental impact will be difficult.
SUSTAINABLE CONSUMPTION AND PRODUCTION PATTERNS
The world has consumed the resources that Mother Nature offers with a ravenous appetite. The educational system does not teach kids about sustainable economic practices. But instead, Earth is only just an anomaly in economics. It’s a sad reality that reflects a broken system. For instance, the world currently lets 1 trillion dollars of food rot each year. Yet, there are starving children dying every day. It’s projected that once the world reaches 9.6 billion people the world would need 3 Earth-like planets to sustain our current lifestyle. All countries have to work together to make this goal a success.
CLIMATE ACTION
Since COVID-19 CO2 levels will lessen to 6% of current peak levels. In light of the world’s longest pause, we’re still not out of the woods yet! (So to speak) Instead, somehow we will have to increase resiliency to natural disasters. Improve education, mitigate, adapt, and develop early warning systems. The world’s CO2 levels are increasing since populations are on the rise. Not to mention, countries have issues integrating climate change into national policies.
SUSTAINABLE WATER PRACTICES
The blue planet is our home and the ocean covers 3/4 of the Earth’s mass. It drives our weather, provides food, and the oxygen we breathe. It is life. We rely so heavily on the ocean. It’s estimated the worth of the global marine market is 3 trillion dollars. But, industrialization has polluted water causing acidification. The fish species serve the world as the largest source of protein yet numbers are declining.
SUSTAINABLE LAND PRACTICES
We take the processes of nature for granted when in fact it is critical to our survival. It provides us the food we eat, the air we breathe, and the clothes on our backs. The food chain is under constant pressure since we’ve altered 75% of the landmass. 1,000,000 plant and animal species are under threat of extinction. Deforestation and desertification are also a major threat to humankind. Land restoration is vital to the planet and its inhabitants.
PEACE AND JUSTICE FOR PEOPLE
How can we have peace and justice for people when we treat our planet the way we do! There will always be conflict, insecurity, and injustices when we can not live sustainably. The corruption, bribery, theft, and tax evasion cost developing countries 1.26 trillion dollars a year. The lack of resources and oppressive forces have fueled a cycle of poverty. The corrupt see it as an alternative to an otherwise impoverished life. Ending violence, exploitation, and reducing arms can strengthen society. However, it can only happen if we can change the world!
PARTNERSHIPS
The UN acknowledges that these are lofty goals for initiatives like these. They need cooperation from all levels of global, regional, national, and local levels. However, the rich keep getting richer and the poor keep getting poorer. Unfortunately. the world order has built a platform that segregates the developing world. Aid levels are falling and countries have not lived up to their pledge for financial assistance. To encourage trade the nations that struggle the most need help.
Does the UN have the ability to implement a plan to get us out of this mess? It seems to me that they’ll need superhero powers to make this happen! The issues are all interconnected. In many cases, you can not fix one without major improvement in another. The sustainable development plan must meet their targets by 2030.
These are the most important things in life. Kids want food, water, security, love, and a place to call home. They want opportunity and education just like you and me. Are these goals a pipe dream, a facade that gives the UN relevancy in today’s world? In the end, it doesn’t really matter. There is no one else who can make it happen!
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans and grass root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bagsare a good way to support the artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy and Eco-friendly planet.
It’s said the people who remember you might not remember you for the things you do! But, in fact, they’ll remember you by the way you made them feel. Receiving the glory of giving for most corporations is a huge incentive. Therefore, companies find ways to pay it forward in creative ways. By giving to a charity that they feel is worthy rather than pay more taxes!
You’ll see in this post that gift-giving has become less of a spiritual journey. For corporations, giving is not without expectations. However, the majority of citizens still believe giving is a genuine experience. Corporate culture and private citizens view giving back in two very different ways.
The Glory Of Giving
According to Wikipedia, the definition of Philanthropy is selfless love, for the love of humanity, or good-natured. In the past, philanthropy was set up to benefit society. But we can see through trial and error it doesn’t quite cut it today!
It has deep historical roots and has had it benefits. Yet our world seems to still struggle every day with segregation, slavery, sickness, and poverty.
In 2006, Bono a rockstar and philanthropist shifted his tax affairs from Ireland to the Netherlands. He explained it’s, “just some smart people we have… being sensible about the way we’re taxed.” This well-known supporter of the fight against poverty is just being smart with his money.
But, what we need more of now is more public funds. There is less money for the governments to provide support for those that need it the most.
The tradition of philanthropy has given time and talent and resources back to the needy. Millions of ordinary people have benefited from programs for education, poverty, and religion. But, there is a problem with this kind of giving. It doesn’t solve the root social issues we face today. Does this practice of giving help? Or does it cause an even bigger divide? When Corporations pay it forward they’re only redistributing their wealth. They’re reaping the glory of giving! Yet, the wealthy are often out of touch with what the poor really need!
Philanthropic Influence
The Rockefeller Foundation is one of the largest in American history to receive the glory of giving! Of the 530 million dollars spent 450 million went to medicine. Yet, the American health system still rates #37 of all countries according to the World Health Organization.
In 1936, the Ford Foundation was created. Both the Rockefeller and the Ford Foundation invested heavily in the Green revolution. The green revolution was the birth of the third agriculture revolution! Chemical labs developed chemical fertilizers and agro-chemicals like pesticides.
They say that it’s helped the problem of world hunger. But, according to the Global Food Waste and Loss Initiative, we’re wasting it. 943 billion dollars in food is wasted annually! The chemicals and pesticides used in the meantime are killing the planet. Find out how the green revolution has shaped the world we know today! It has a dark side that’s causing the planet unspeakable damage.
Modern-day philanthropists are just smart people doing smart things with their money. But, what if corporations and individuals just paid their taxes? Currently, there’s a huge gap between the have and the have not. This is because fairness and equality don’t run in a conventional system. The world’s eight richest people have more money than the poorest half of humanity!
The Multi-Billion-Dollar Tax Haven
The typical social order in a caste system. So it’s a world created by those with money to control those that don’t. Another big problem that challenge governments are the allocation of tax money to havens.
According to the International Monetary fund, Multinational corporations shift profits to havens. This creates a global tax loss to the tune of 500 billion dollars a year! To all the multi-billion dollar corporations this is what we have to say today! We don’t need your charity we want your tax dollars!
This example highlights why modern-day philanthropy exists for the wrong reasons.
Joey D. a wealthy socialite worked in the family business his entire life. Regardless, he’d worked hard running long hours. A typical wealthy family with luxury cars, large homes, and investments from the Hamptons to Panama city. Joey D. doesn’t want to pay too many taxes. So he decides instead to donate his money to education. He donates a large sum to the local University. In turn, they name their auditorium after him! Joey D. what a great guy! His reputation is one of generosity and friends, colleagues, and family all admire his contribution. A typical story, it’s the glory of giving.
There are two big problems firstly this generosity only offsets how much tax he pays! Secondly, it also gives him the pleasure of receiving love and admiration from his peers. Self-centered kindness lives because the system allows it too. The world’s foundation was built of bricks and Mortar in a shape like a pyramid. Food, poverty, and lack of education exist because of the unequal distribution of wealth.
Random Acts And Tax
What in the world would have to happen for a systemic change? Why would philanthropy disappear when it reflects love and admiration from others. The good news! Even if philanthropy disappeared tomorrow the government coffers would benefit.
The government’s job is to provide acquisitions for goods and services, Infrastructure investment and research spending. Its the government’s job to create future benefits for humanity. So shouldn’t it be their responsibility to deliver necessary social programs?
This initiative gives a stable and responsible government the means to do better. Not to mention, genuine random acts of kindness will still happen every day! We often find it in our hearts to make it special for someone that deserves it. If billions of people treated their neighbors fairly the world would be better off.
Genuine Gifts
True admiration for gift-givers comes from those that have a story. Quite often it’s a life that had underwent a triumph over tragedy. This experience fuels the motivation to ultimately deliver genuine service. This type of character most people find relatable.
However, when someone gets their motivation out of order morality is easily displaced. Advancing a political agenda, or religious beliefs are antagonists in gift-giving. The road to good character is not who you portray. Seeing accurately and being honest with yourself will lead those with means down the right road. It will give the means to give unconditionally.
When you give someone love, you’re actually giving a piece of yourself. Philanthropy is designed to fix the root cause of the world-wide problems. But, love is what truly solves problems the world faces today! It is more fun to give then it is to get love.
People with the most love for one another find an appreciation for one another. So, it isn’t what you buy or what you do. It is definitely knowing someone that makes love better. So with more money in the government’s coffers and genuine acts of kindness. We will be better off to face the challenges within the current system. Wouldn’t that be something? It would be a miracle to have all of the world’s problems solved.
Regenerative land management is the next generation of farming! Food shortages happen throughout time. But in the last 120 years, farming has really changed. Exposing nature to pesticides, insecticides, water overuse, and synthetic chemicals. It has had some serious side effects causing the climate to change.
Digging up the dirt with the next generation
There are three farming practices currently used today. First, Monoculture farming the most popular technique. Next Organic farming has won the hearts of the health-conscious. Then Regenerative farming! The latter is otherwise known as traditional farming. It is a time-honored tradition passed down from generation to generation. Its reemergence has made its way back into modern farming. Hopefully, it will illuminate the path towards change! It will show us Agriculture can fight climate change.
Digging up the dirt to grow food was something our Grandparents did in the backyard every year. They did it because they knew not to rely solely on the market. The problem they faced was a lack of steady food supply. The war was beginning, food was in demand and the stock market was in turmoil. One of the things the Great Depression taught homemakers was to stretch out their meals. They rationed food like meat, coffee, fish, butter, and eggs. The government rationed to prevent hoarding, stabilize the economy, and prepare for the war effort.
This is the biggest reason why 120 years ago Monoculture farming became common. The government urged Farmers to supply more food and gave them a new means to do so. The green revolutioninitiative coincided giving farmers high yielding grains. Chemical fertilizers and agrochemicals allowed them to grow more food. The demand for food in Europe grew rapidly. So did farmer’s profits because prices were high and food scarce.
Mono Culture Farming
The popularity of Monoculture farming grew because it’s efficient. Farmers incorporated mono-techniques so they could plant, treat, and harvest plants faster. Plus, greater crop yield needed less land. But, there are many indicators that show nature has suffered from it. The mono-crops themselves are more susceptible to disease and pests. Every year the depletion of soil occurs because the same crop needs the same nutrients. The United Nations says three-quarters of the world’s soil is dead! We need more people to take care of the soil instead of using it. Short term, cash crops are not the answer in the fight for climate change.
The USA alone uses one billion pounds of pesticides a year. The fertilizers have caused dead oceanic zones all over the world. Scientists estimate there are 500 sites that suffer from Oxygen deprivation. Sea creatures cannot survive in these areas and people rely on the Oceans for food. But farmers are in a cycle where they’ve become dependant on synthetic chemicals. All the while the land and sea which was once rich and productive become lifeless.
Farmers are good people trying their best to feed the world. These people are more important than Doctors. Understandably it’s because we rely on them every single day! There is a list of pressures a mile-long contributing to the ongoing environmental issues. The depletion of vital topsoil, beneficial organisms, and nutrients happens. But it can’t continue on because it takes the Earth 500 years to produce just one inch of topsoil! Although topsoil has eroded and depleted it’s not damaged beyond repair! A new generation of farmers is on its way. They will be digging up the dirt to fight climate change soon!
Organic Farming
Some Farmers say they can restore the land but it heals quickly. There was an environmental movement that kick-started the next wave of farming. It came when shoppers wanted food without chemicals. Organic farming became a thing when people became aware of its health benefits. In 1962 Rachel Carson wrote a book that placed a spotlight on monoculture farming. She warned that Pesticides and Insecticides have caused serious side effects.
Organic farming is better for the environment. This practice simply replaces chemical inputs with natural inputs. Therefore farmers don’t use synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or insecticides. Soil biodiversity is abundant because composting creates healthy and fertile soil. However, Organic farms can still have the same monoculture principles.
The Regenerative Farm
There is a key difference between Organic farming and Regenerative farming. Regenerative farming focuses on the environment, improving wildlife habitats and the biological rejuvenation of the soil. Moreover, the techniques work with nature finding a balance within the ecosystem.
This practice of rejuvenation requires less water and produces higher yields during droughts. Healthy soils actually sequester a lot of CO2. The cover crops increase photosynthesis which pushes CO2 into the ground. Since herbivores like sheep are used for grazing there is no need to till the land. Therefore trapping the CO2 in the ground.
Many now know that Regenerative farming is the only way people should be fed. I’m being optimistic and hopeful for many reasons. If you haven’t watched the Biggest Little Farm Documentary you should! This documentary shows us more traditional farms will change Habitats. Agriculture can fight climate change! We need millions or perhaps a billion farms like this one. See how their implementation will shape our world for the better.
Climate Change
Climate change is a natural global phenomenon that has happened over time. This is part of the reason as to why there are climate deniers. It’s also the reason why so many believe that their actions are of little consequence. It’s an excuse to not take action at all! Why bother putting thought, time, and energy into it.
Science continues to analyze the levels of CO2 today and they’re at unprecedented levels! It’s caused by the residential, industrial, and agricultural sectors. Among other factors, food production contributes to the extinction of species. Livestock and farming use close to 30% of the world’s most habitable land.
Current Farming practices cannot work in harmony with nature killing wild populations. Furthermore, food production uses 70% of our precious water. With limited habitable land and essential resources can population increase?
The rate of global births is estimated to be 81 million people a year. The experts estimate the population to rise to 9.8 billion by 2050. How are we going to support an extra 2 billion people?
A global switch to regenerative farming could sequester enough emissions. Slowing then reversing the global warming trend. It will work in harmony with nature and create animal habitats. More people need access to support from governments for Regenerative farm startups.
After all, the rate of global births is estimated to be 81 million people a year. Thus we will have to share the planet with 9.8 billion by 2050. How well can an extra 2 billion people live?
Both technology and chemicals haven’t given us a solution. The unsustainable reliance on chemical fertilizers and insecticides has allowed us to temporarily feed a lot of people. But, it has come at a cost poisoning the air, land, and sea.
Ways you can help
A good place to start when digging up dirt would be to build your own compost container. Composting is a good way to build up your vegetable garden with nutrients. It’s also a small gesture in an effort to give back to the planet. These same nutrients were available when the farmer grew our food. Support your local organic farm! Maybe there’s a Farmer near you attempting to farm using regenerative techniques. Find out who to support for your health and the health of your family.
Canadians consume 1.5 million barrels of oil a day! It gives us things such as heating, cooling, of our homes, and transportation. It underpins our economy and the lifestyle we love so much. Consequently, if oil disappeared tomorrow the impact on our reality would devastate our existence. Could you imagine a world without Oil? Find out how you can reduce your carbon footprint
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans, and grass-root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bags are a good way to support artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy, and Eco-friendly planet.
With the spread of COVID-19, people are spending more time in the kitchen. This is a good time more than ever to think about re-prioritizing life. We have time to think about the essentials for a conscious kitchen. Plastic pollution hasn’t gone away. It’s still important to control our household waste for future generations. We’ve seen humanity can ban together for a cause and it’s brilliant!
Entire Countries have made a complete 360-degree turn in their daily routines. A pact was made to stay home! Fighting off this unseen viral danger has made the economy slow and stock markets crash. The food has disappeared off grocery store shelves. So now we turn to our spouses, loved ones and children and say, “didn’t see that one coming!” But these issues are not new. In the past, people have struggled with the same problems.
Essentials for a conscious kitchen
In the old days, people grew vegetable gardens in the back yard. The fruit and vegetables were then canned and stored in cool dark spaces. Our Grandparents did this because their parents did. This sage advice was passed down through the generations because it was common sense. As time passed innovations in the kitchen became more commonplace. More women went to work in the 1960s and families had more spending money. There were easy convenient ways to make a quick dinner for the family. Drive-thrus exploded in popularity and the era of fast food was born.
However, now that Restaurants are closed and families are staying home we have time. It’s time to look at how your kitchen can improve. Living a sustainable life and passing your own sage advice to kids is priceless. It is our contribution to the effort of maintaining a healthy planet. These essentials for a conscious kitchen will give you the tools you need to reduce waste.
Juicer Machine
A good juicing machine is worth the investment! Many people buy juicing machines to stay healthy. But it also stops tetra packs from entering the landfill. The Canadian dietary guideline suggests people should eat 7-10 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. Do you think you could eat that many veggies? It sure is tough to do! The advantage of juicing is not only just reaping the benefits of powerful antioxidants. It’s a way to lower the amount of waste your household produces!
Cheesecloth
Cheesecloth is necessary when you’re actively juicing! The juicer works at pulverizing the fruit into a mash but it doesn’t capture all the juice. Most of the juice is left in the pulp. So to get the best bang for your buck you have to squeeze the life out of the pulp. This is why cheesecloth is so valuable. Therefore, if you don’t get every last drop you’d waste your money.
Soda Stream
Do you know why the soda stream is an amazing product? It’s amazing for the same reason a juicing machine is awesome. I love that there is a variety of flavors for the whole family. But what I love even more is less plastic! We buy Pop at the store because we can’t make it at home! But since the soda stream times have changed! After the initial investment, you can save a ton of money. It only costs .35 cents a liter so pretty much .70 cents for a 2 liter of pop! Overall, you can save an average of 550 plastic bottles from the landfill each year!
Biodegradable Plastic Bags
Are you still using those white plastic kitchen bags in your garbage bin? Not everything can be recycled and we still need a place to put it. For instance, the meat at the grocery store is always sold with a Styrofoam tray. Think of it as an area that needs room for improvement. Instead of giving up with the thought that this is just the way it is! Read this post about 4 successful shopping tips that will change your life. Go with the biodegradable plastic bags that will compost quickly. Unni’s 100% compostable bags are good if they got the seam right. The seam at the bottom of the bag was bonded together. However, if they get that right it’s an excellent option. These bags have TUV certification, 100% compostable in the backyard and home composting.
Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wrapsare a great way to stop using plastic saran wrap with leftovers. These wraps are an awesome biodegradable alternative to silicon-based products. The beeswax has natural anti-microbial properties that help keep your food free from bacteria. Beeswax has been used for thousands of years in ancient Egypt and by the “Father of Medicine,” Hippocrates.
Enjo
Ever hear of Enjo? This company has a product line that replaces the need to buy both paper towels and cleaning solutions. It’s a 2 in 1 solution to every household’s needs. You save money since you don’t need to buy them at all. Plus you’re stopping unnecessary chemical and plastic pollution from their release into the environment. Once the Enjo cleaning pads are finished their life Enjo takes them back. They get a second life as cushions for cars!
Mason Jars
Mason jars have been a game-changer in my kitchen! I used to use plastic bags whenever I bought in the bulk section. I never liked how plastic bags stacked up in my pantry. They would often get shoved towards the back. Of course, I’d forget it was there. Now the jars stand proudly with the canned food. They have organized my cupboards, making my pantry pleasing to the eye! Use the mason jars when you visit the bulk section or the Bulk Barn near you. You’ll reduce your reliance on single-use plastics and help save a sea turtle.
Caste Iron Pans
Caste iron pans have been a staple in the household since the 16th century. So it’s not surprising that will be a good addition to your kitchen. If you like caramelizing the tops of fresh buns fast than these pans are for you! Switching from Teflon wasn’t difficult. Caste iron pans are not expensive in comparison and much healthier. The PFOA’s used to produce Teflon is a super toxic chemical that is virtually indestructible. Read more about Teflon in 5 Eco-friendly household items that will make us healthier
Baking Sheets
A baking sheet is necessary for an Eco-friendly kitchen because it is up to us to save the Rain forest. Don’t rely on large corporations to bring us our cookies and crackers. Palm oil plantations have slashed and burned the Amazon in order to gain more fertile ground. By baking, we eliminate the need for palm oil. Just when you thought there was nothing you could do to help protect the Rain forest. It turns out you have the power to make a difference in your own kitchen. If you need a baking sheet go with stoneware and stay away from Non-stick pans.
Crock Pot
A crockpot or what I prefer to call a Mom saver! Next to the toaster, this machine is one of the most popular appliances in the kitchen. The crockpot is a brilliant way to make vegetable soup stalk. The biggest Eco-friendly issue from a kitchen comes from the amount of its food waste. The average food waste from a Canadian household costs $1,100.00 annually. Canada emits 2.2 million tonnes of avoidable food waste. That is equal to 2.1 million cars on the road each year!! So, every unaccounted scrap of food that gets thrown into the landfill actually amounts to something. So, throw your vegetable scraps into a crockpot and create your own homemade soup. Soup is an essential in every kitchen and the crockpot is one of the essentials for a conscious kitchen.
Seagrass Bags
Bring your own reusable bags to the grocery store. Seagrass is a Sea fiber that can be woven into a super-strong product. There is very little environmental impact as it does not need fresh water to grown and does not need chemical fertilizers, pesticides of insecticides. It’s found all over the world and can be grown quickly one acre can make up to 10 tonnes a year! The fibers are water repellent, stain resistant and almost impermeable. This job of weaving these bags are often given to the woman of the village. They’re the artisans and help keep their community healthy, happy and working. Find your self a sweet little market bag like this one.It’s an opportunity to pay a fair price for a quality item.
Freezing seasonal fruit
I haven’t quite figured out how to freeze fruit without using a plastic bag. So if anyone knows an alternate way, please send me a comment! Freezing seasonal fruit is environmentally friendly for one good reason. The carbon footprint of a transported fruit or veggie is high. For instance from California to Vancouver B.C. the carbon footprint is .27 tonnes. It’s hard to imagine .27 tonnes. So to give it a better description this weight equals three baby elephants. Buy from a local farm and support the livelihood of our neighbors.
Popcorn Machine
Popcorn Machines are a Mom’s secret weapon for hungry kids. If you want a low waste kitchen than a pop corn machine is a must! It eliminates the need for any kind of packaging. Buy your pop corn kernels in the bulk section. Fill up a mason jar instead of buying kernels in a plastic bag or microwaveable popcorn. Microwaveable popcorn has a Teflon coating on the bag. So the popcorn machine offers a no waste or chemical solution.
We need to understand that even though we are recycling waste. We are still releasing it back into the environment. The process of handling recyclables creates more CO2 in the atmosphere. Therefore, we’re better off reducing our wasteful ways. Stop the flow of plastic and packaging into our homes. Traditional folklore is the best medicine for the soul. Doing what we once did to produce the essentials binds us to the past
Thank you for taking the time to read this article. Please share this with your friends and family on social media. Learning about the essentials for a conscious kitchen is interesting. But, what’s even more fascinating is reading up on the corporations that bring us the essentials for our kitchen. Learn about one company with a huge impact on your comfort food!
Changing the world will only happen now if we learn to be conscious shoppers… But, it’s not that easy when you can’t tell who is doing what! But I’ll tell you that learning who and what will fill you with purpose. Shopping therapy!
We need to know what companies are trying to make a difference now more than ever. So let’s get started… The Certified B Corporation is a system that identifies a companies efforts to change the world.
Most of us have never heard of this type of certification because you rarely find it in advertising. A certified B Corp is a company that works to make a profit but works with something called B Lab. The B stands for Benefit and B Lab is a nonprofit company!
Changing the world today for tomorrow
Its job is to measure a company’s social and environmental standards. It holds for-profit companies accountable. So these companies must meet rigorous standards to keep their certification. It’s basically like a USDA certification for the business. In a world where there are lots of claims that stretch the truth, it’s nice to know who to support.
Marketers look for the shiniest adjectives that describe their products. The warm and fuzzy phrases bring a welcoming reception which ultimately increases sales. However, the B Corp qualifies companies that want more than profits. They want to do better. These companies are working to be wholesome, safe and properly labeled. They’re working hard at changing the world!
Certification begins with a test that asks a bunch of questions related to a companies impact. It studies the impact on employees, customers, community and the environment. To qualify a company must score a minimum of 80 points. If they’re really good they can score up to 200 points. Once the test is passed a company will then follow up with supporting documents and provide a background check.
There are 3,243 B Corp companies in 71 countries and many are based in Canada and the U.S. So here are the 16 companies that stand out. See how they’re working hard every day at changing the world.
Arbonne
This company is in the top 25 for the largest companies worldwide to become certified. It is working to become transparent and increase its sustainability. It is non-GMO certified and their health products are gluten-free. They’ll recycle their packaging taking it back once its life is over.
Patagonia
This clothing company is also part of the circular community. It has developed a program to reuse previously worn clothing. So far It has donated 100 million dollars to environmental groups. Together they’re trying to help slow climate change. Their mission includes “building the best product, to cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.
Ben and Jerry’s
Ben and Jerry’s ice cream is trying to prevent social injustices in local and international communities. They’re replicating models of economic justice that have proved to be sustainable. Their mission is to make improve the community’s quality of life. They figure it’s just as important as their financial goals. Wow! If you see this company in the Dairy aisle support them by voting with your dollars!
The Body Shop
The Body Shop is a global beauty brand that has been around since the ’70s. This is the first company that pioneered “fair trade” in the cosmetic industry. It’s committed to social issues such as human trafficking, climate change, deforestation, whaling, and animal testing. They’re not just a brand with sweet-smelling products. They have been a long-standing advocate for positive change in the world.
Dr. Bronners
The first time I read Dr. Bronner’s bottle I thought he’s maybe a little crazy. You’ll have to read it to believe it! However, soap products are fantastic! They’re USDA organic, Non-GMO, not tested on animals and fair for life. Fair for Life is a program that certifies the supply chain for fair trade and fair wages.
Vita CoCo
Vita Coco is a New York-based company working with farmers in Brazil, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They know that farming is hard work and harvesting coconuts is no exception. So, they’ve developed educational programs for the community and also invest in their farms. They don’t like to waste the coconut either. Once the coconut water is extracted they use the meat for their coconut oil and the shell as fuel for factories.
Fresh Prep
This local Vancouver B.C. company puts together meal kits for families on the go! They source their ingredients from local farms and store the food in reusable containers. The food is designed by Chefs and this company uses beef raised without any unnecessary antibiotics or hormones. Plus, the fish is caught wild and certified by Ocean Wise.
Fairware
Fairware is a merchandising company that helps companies offer sustainable promotional products for their business. They do the homework to find ethical and sustainable products so busy companies don’t need too. Their clients include Mountain Equipment Co-op, Vega, Patagonia, Natures Path, seventh generation, and UNICEF.
The Etho
Look no further for an all you need an ethical market place. Ethos is an online platform that works with companies with ethical perspectives. For the most part, they offer environmentally friendly products, safe working conditions, and sustainable wages. This platform has also claimed to help 100 million women out of poverty! Amazing! You can shop everything from clothing, home goods and grocery items at Etho’s Marketplace.
Seventh Generation
This company is the leading green household and personal care brand in North America. They use recycled material in their packaging and have reduced their manufacturing process’s carbon footprint. Another great aspect of this company is that all of its products are USDA certified bio-based and not tested on animals. Overall the plastic packaging comes from 100% post-consumer recycled material!
Grove Collaborative
Changing the world comes easy when you buy a subscription with this eCommerce platform. It collaborates with many other ethical companies with the same principles. These companies include Method, Seventh Generation, and Burt’s Bees. As a result, they make sure their products are cruelty-free, made with plants and contain only natural fragrances. They’re constantly looking at ways to reduce the plastic in their packaging. Plus their ethical supply chain and sustainable material set this company apart.
Numi tea
Their teas are beautiful not just because of their taste but also for their ethics! Numi is certified as a fair-trade company with fair labor practices. It’s just crazy that there NEEDS to be a third party organization to determine if people are being paid fairly. They hold themselves accountable for their supply chain and sustainable farming practices. Each tea is Organic and Non-GMO. So it’s easy to see that this company is a worthy Corp B company.
Nada Grocery
This grocer deserves a nod. Hello Brianne! She’s a Marine Biologist that has seen first hand the swirling mass of plastic in our oceans. She knows that much of the waste has come from our very own kitchens. Her goal was to see the reduction in food packaging. So she set up a shop in Vancouver B.C. She’s made waves in the grocery aisle since all of the products offered in her store are zero waste.
Danone
The Danone Canada brand is one of the largest consumer companies in the Corp B lineup! Their priorities include climate change, sourcing sustainable ingredients and improving their packaging. It’s a fine balance between profits and the social/environmental factors we face today. Therefore this brand makes it in the top 4 ethical dairy brands. Support them over the other brands in the dairy aisle.
All Birds
This shoe company holds itself accountable for its carbon footprint! Climate change has overrun our lives and they’ve realized something needs to be done now. So they’re limiting, measuring, offsetting, and reducing their CO2. By doing this they hope that they’ll one day be a player in changing the world. For this reason, they’ve made a goal to become net-zero by 2030. They’ll do this by paying a self-imposed carbon tax!
Pela
This company is awesome so I purchased a phone case from Pela. It’s incredible and I can’t believe how durable a biodegradable item can be! The vision of this company is to create a plastic-free future. They’re working towards building products that encourage a waste-free lifestyle. The sky is the limit and the future looks a little brighter with products like these. Next time you’re looking for a phone case or sunglasses look no further!
Generally speaking, these are some of the companies looking for climate solutions. The companies that we’ve talked about here are good, ethical companies working to make a difference in the world. Support these companies to give the planet a better chance for recovery. Align your wallet with these companies and vote with your dollars. In essence, we can make a difference. Giving them your support offers them a higher competitive advantage over the competition.
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans and grass root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bags are a good way to support the artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy and Eco-friendly planet.
When asked to face the challenges of Climate change today you can’t help but look for a miracle! However, we don’t have to look to much farther than Nature itself! It often gives us what we need and offers many powerful plants for medicinal purposes. For those concerned about the state of the planet, they can become seriously annoyed. The side effects caused by “climate care” is general fatigue, overwhelming anxiety, nervousness, and fear! Most pray for a miracle because it’s believed the problem is too far and wide to help. But, it can be as simple as finding a cure. It’s true some diseases and illnesses have had cures. For instance, we found by chance the medicine we now know as Penicillin. If it wasn’t for the curiosity of Sir Alexander Fleming’s mold in one of his culture plates this well-known antibiotic may never have been discovered!
The relationship between the environment and your health
Like the health of our environment, a person’s health also lies within his/her own hands. But it takes motivation and determination. The amount of waste that comes from households also correlates to the health of our environment. In sickness and in good health we have the power to change our environment, but like our bodies, we have to treat it with respect.
Ever hear the saying, “You are what you eat?” Well, it’s true. The better nutrition we put in our bodies the better physical and mental health. But, the health of our food is really determined by the way it is grown. We can’t underestimate the importance of practicing good nutritional habits. The types of foods we continually put or don’t put into the body changes you. Therefore, determining whether the internal systems and organs function properly. If the body has the strength to resist disease or the ability to withstand the physical or psychological stresses of life.
If you’re motivated and determined than these powerful plants are here to help. They’re not just essential oils but plants that can be grown in your own backyard. They can help prevent diseases provide relief, and help cure many illnesses. I hope this information gives you the motivation to search for your own answer. Nature may hold the natural disease that can affect us but is also clearly provides ways to prevent them. This is why it is so important to find ways to protect the environment. It is our food, water, medicine, and habitat!
Angelica
Wild Angelica is a powerful medicinal herb used in China. It’s also commonly found in subarctic regions such as Greenland. The flower has beautiful starbursts of tiny florets on a fleshy stem. It helps to alleviate nervousness and tension. If your the type to experience stress in your gut than this is the herb for you. It will help to relieve stomach irregularities associated with nervousness.
Basil
Holy Basil is referred to as an “adaptogen.” It allows your body to handle stress! You’ll find it in tea, pill or extract form. All helping to alleviate nervousness. Humans and animals were shown to have increased metabolism and improve sleep and fatigue.
Bergamot
The Bergamot plant is a lovely ornamental garden plant used to attract beneficial insects to your garden. It is not only nice to look at it has a sweet herby taste popular for lemonades, punch or hot and cold teas. It is essential to help alleviate nervousness and tension
Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh grows up to 5 feet tall with pretty sprays of long streams of white flowers. The root’s medicinal purpose is to help alleviate nervousness and tension. Its found mostly in pill or tincture forms at the health food store.
Black Pepper
It looks like a flowery vine with berries. The berries are the fruit and named peppercorns. This fruit has many health benefits because of it’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. It helps alleviate tension especially associated with tobacco addiction withdrawal.
Borage
A blue starflower that will add beauty to your kitchen garden. Both the leaves and flowers are edible and those that use it enjoy its medicinal properties. This lovely will help alleviate your nervousness, especially associated with premenstrual syndrome.
California Poppy
If you find yourself up and not sleeping at night because life has you stressed out! Try this delightful flower! This warm orangy flower is a popular wildflower. It helps alleviate nervousness, tensions, and nervous agitation.
Caraway
Caraway plant is a common garden herb in culinary gardens It is aromatic and gives dishes a hint of licorice flavor. The flavor is a combination of citrus and pepper. You’ll particularly find this herb in curry dishes and rye bread. In addition, the medicinal value from the seed relieves digestive irregularities associated with nervousness.
Chamomile
Chamomile has been consumed for centuries as a tea remedy to calm nerves. This herb is a flower that looks like a small version of a daisy. It has incredible abilities to reduce stress and anxiety.
Cinnamon
Everyone knows about Cinnamon! It is a popular herb to use when cooking or baking. It not only tastes good in apple-pie it also helps to alleviate tension and helps to relieve diarrhea associated with tension
Coriander
As a matter of fact, this plant is related to the Celery family! The stem and leaves have a citrusy flavor and are most commonly used in cooking. I’m sure you’ve heard of them! It’s called Cilantro! Moreover, the Coriander seeds have an earthy flavor and help alleviate nervousness. It’s good at relieving diarrhea associated with nervousness.
Dill
This savory herb graces the gardens of most chefs. It’s most often used with lemon and adds so much flavor to any dish. Did you know it also helps alleviate nervousness too! It’s great for nausea and helps prevent and relieve vomiting associated with nervousness.
Fennel
Found wild on the side of the roads in the Mediterranean regions. Fennel has a edible fleshy bulb commonly used in cooking. In particular, it is rich in antioxidants and has the ability to lower blood pressure. Thus, in turn, relieves nervous tension!
Ginko Biloba
Used for centuries to enhance blood flow. This ancient plant is a powerful antioxidant and has been proven to increase cognitive abilities. Therefore limiting tension and anxiety caused by stress.
Ginseng
Just when you thought how could there possibly be more herbs to help with my tension! We’re only halfway through the list!! The Earth offers us so much variety. Ginseng is most popular in Eastern Asian medicine. It is a powerful antioxidant that relieves heart irregularities associated with nervousness.
Hops
Who knew Beer could help relieve stress! I do. The most common form used is the Hop flower. People like to drink it in Beer and use it as a natural medicine. If you’re a woman and you suffer from symptoms of menopause crack open a beer and relax! It helps to alleviate tension associated with feminine menopause.
Lemon Balm
Fresh Lemon balm tastes delicious in a cold Summer tea. Proven by double-blind studies to relieve headaches, reduce anxiety and decrease heart and breathing irregularities associated with nervousness. I Love adding Lemon Balm to sweet tea on a Summer’s day. It truly is one of the most powerful plants we use today.
Lavender
Lavender is the go-to herb that people love to cook and drink. It’s a traditional plant that relieves heart irregularities, stomach cramping, and spasms associated with nervousness.
Mandarin
If your feeling like you’ve got a lot of nervous tension in your body you can do something as simple as grabbing an orange. Mandarin oranges are a treat around Christmas and what a great time to eat your stress away. It contains minerals Potassium and Magnesium which affect blood pressure and nerve function.
Oats
Oats are the healthiest grains and one of the most powerful plants in the world! They are common in many diets so it’s easy to get their health benefits. Oats release nervous tension because it feeds the nervous system. Most specifically Oats will help you get through depression.
Passionflower
The Passionflower is an exotic looking flower which helps to relieve sleep disorders associated with nervous tension. Researchers believe it works because it contains (GABA) or Gamma-Aminobutyric Acids. This is a chemical that the brain makes for you which can either put you in a good or bad mood!
Peppermint
Do you have a headache and a stiff neck? Chances are it’s nervousness! Peppermint is a nice natural alternative to an Advil. It is a sweet-smelling oil that can make you feel revived and happier while reducing pain.
Reishi Mushroom
Grown in hot and humid regions of Eastern Asia the Reishi Mushrooms are OK to eat fresh. However, the most popular form to eat it is in powder or pill form. It has many health benefits for your immune system and will relieve chest pains associated with nervousness.
Rose
This one is my favorite! I absolutely love the smell of a rose bush. It relieves chest discomfort or cramping giving you that comfortable and happy feeling! Have you ever heard the saying stop and smell the Roses? There is some scientific evidence behind it! Researchers have done a controlled study that showed the smell of a Rose increased the feeling of relaxation. It truly is one of the most powerful plants!
The bounty of what nature has to offer gives us blessings. Blessings we should be thankful for everyday. But we often take them for granted! Our health isa subject to our natural surroundings. For example our sense of well-being increases by just taking a short walk in the woods. Staying healthy can be easy if you can keep your body’s stress levels in check. Do this by simply eating food grown and cultivated in the healthiest environment. All of these powerful plants suggested here have medicinal properties to keep you cool and calm! Use these powerful plants on a daily basis in your cooking. Then watch your health rise and your stress fall.
There are more ways you can incorporate powerful plants into your daily routine. Essential oils have been used as perfumes since 2000 BC. Kings, Queens, and Nobles would wear it. The rarity of an essential oil distillery made it expensive. Therefore, those that had the money could afford to buy it. Peasants and laymen would envy the soft floral scents. But now these oils are affordable for most people. Learn how you can make your own perfume and live a happier, healthier lifestyle.
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans and grass root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bags are a good way to support the artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy and Eco-friendly planet.
The circular economy is an alternative way to do business. A circular business’s main goal is to eliminate waste. Plus, facilitate the continual use of resources. It gives a company a new way to market their business and stand out from the competition.
It’s an ethical system that provides people with goods and services. But, low and behold it’s still not the way mainstream companies work. The majority of large companies work within a linear style of business.
Linear Economy
People buy products, consume them, then throw them away. They buy the same products repeatedly in one lifetime. This has proven to be profitable and the reason why companies are slow to change.
However, if you multiply this process by six billion people you can see how waste adds up! The products from a linear company come from raw natural resources. The resources are virgin never before used developed in a laboratory, mined or farmed.
Support Circular Companies
The companies that strive to build a circular economy need your support. We’re told buying cheap products and plastic bottles ruin the environment. But, many people are scratching their heads wondering how they can help?
Support a circular economy. Give yourself credit because you’re doing SOMETHING! The personal choice to support any means to limit the natural degradation of our environment is a good one. It’s a good start in the reduction of waste. Voting with our dollars and changing what we buy is the best solution.
When we need to buy what’s necessary these companies offer a solution. I hope this information gives you what you need to make an impactful decision. Old shopping habits have contributed to this mess and it’s in our hands to make a change.
It’s useless to point fingers and shrug our shoulders hoping someone will fix it. Look no further! Many circular companies are small grass-root companies. So it can be difficult to find them, until now! Here are 11 circular companies with an aim to change the world one product at a time.
ENJO International
ENJO International offers a sustainable solution for cleaning your home. They supply a range of microfiber cleaning cloths in different shapes and sizes. The innovative ENJOtex fiber technology has fibers finer than a human hair. They effectively clean the smallest surface particles and germs. This cleaning system only uses water so there is no need for those nasty household chemicals. Thus, each household will dump fewer plastic containers into the landfill. This reduces a household’s plastic waste by over 1450 grams a year! These cloths will last 3 years and once it’s life is over you can send it back to ENJO. At this point, they upcycle the product into car seat padding or house insulation. Kathy Moes is Greater Vancouver’s only distributor of Enjo products. Buy these products through her and test the beauty of a circular economy.
Dresden Vision
Dresden Vision prides itself on having a closed-loop manufacturing system. Unlike Non-Dresden glasses they`re reusing their product to create more glasses. Otherwise, it’s inevitable that 99% of glasses produced end up in the landfill. Dresden Vision makes glasses with marine debris. Trash such as ghost nets, beach debris, milk caps, and beer keg caps. The manufacturing program reuses waste otherwise too tough to reuse. Not to mention harmful to the ecosystem. Last year Dresden partnered with Sustainable salons. Together they`ve developed the world`s first pair of sunglasses made up of 100% shampoo bottles.
Timberland Shoes
Timberland shoes have a sustainable and circular philosophy. Their shoes are organic, renewable or recyclable. The company developed a partnership with Omni United to create a circular economy. Together they developed their own tire and sell it to customers for their vehicles. Once the tires are finished their life the company reuses them. Timberland tires comprise the Timberland shoe’s outerwear soles. You can order Timberland tires online at an American dealer or a pair of shoes here.
G-Star Raw
Pharrall Williams is super happy about a new partnership with G-Star Raw.They’ve converted Recycled Coastal and Marine plastic waste into a plastic textile. This clothing line has created jeans with this raw material called Bionic yarn. Bionic yarn reduces plastics on the front lines of developing nations. In places where there is no infrastructure to deal with single-use plastics. You can buy jeans, snowboard jackets, suits or haute couture dresses online. It’s an exciting partnership that will help to solve the ocean plastic nightmare.
Cascades
Cascades a Canadian company dedicated to recycling cardboard fibers to make tissue paper. They’re the largest paper recycling firm in Canada offering Canadians a closed-loop system. The manufacturing and recycling pick up service contribute to a circular market system. It has won multiple packaging awards for their 100% post-consumer cardboard tray.
Allbird’s Shoes
Allbird’s shoes are literally running around using state of the art technology. They’re saving the planet one shoelace at a time! Old plastic bottles compose these shoelaces. Plus, they use 90% of post-consumer materials in their packaging. It doesn’t stop there! They’re dedicated to using natural materials. As opposed to the fake acrylic crap the industry likes to use. The shoe contains 100% Merino Wool which is natural and biodegradable. Their dedication that supports the environment also extends to social programs. The charity sole4souls delivers worn shoes to people in places in undeveloped countries. So, instead of throwing them away Allbirds will ship them to where they need to go.
Girlfriend Collective
Girlfriend Collective is a company that cares about fashion and sustainability. They have set their sights on a place in Taiwan to source plastic bottles for their fabrics. This place is home to 23 million people and it used to be called Garbage Island. Programs and volunteer groups set up small stations in rural areas. These people, mostly retired, collect and sort the trash each night. Girlfriend Collective uses the #1 PET bottles to make their activewear. This is what they need to do to develop a circular economy.
Patagonia
Worn Wear works with clothing company Patagonia offering its clothes a new afterlife. The clothes returned by customers are repaired, reused or resold. They offer ways for costumers to repair their own clothes before they give them away. The company will teach customers mending tricks and also sell mending kits online. They resell clothing at wornwear events, employees, and give to grass-root environmental groups. They’re offering clothes for disaster relief and secondhand markets in the developing world.
Insane In The Rain
The vibes at Insane In The Rain are wet and funky. (in a good kinda way.) This company makes bright, bold and awesome rain jackets using 100% recycled plastic. Each jacket is made up of 17 to 23 upcycled plastic bottles that would otherwise be left in the Ocean. A budding start-up business developing in a circular economy.
Wasteboards
Wasteboards design unique one-of-a-kind skateboards. They’re using bottle caps collected and donated from music events, school kids, and companies. They’ve mastered the process to deliver a strong yet flexible skateboard. Plus, they’re cooking up some other products in the bakery. You’ll soon be able to buy waste wheels, chairs, baskets, and bags.
Batoko
Batoko.com is a swimwear company looking to turn the tides on waste manufacturing. Their swimwear is made up of 100% plastic waste that would otherwise be headed for the landfill or Ocean. It was beach cleaning that fueled their passion to convert sea trash into sea treasure. Their workplace is powered by solar and wind energy. Plus, their supplier’s goals include zero-waste practices. Together they’re working hard to build a circular economy.
Freyzein
Freyzein produces outdoor jackets that are 100% Climate-neutral. This means their emissions are balanced by methods that remove warming gas from the atmosphere. They follow the philosophy of cradle to cradle principles. It is a holistic approach that creates waste-free systems. Every part of their jacket is built to be reused or composted without harmful residue.
Obey Clothing and Apparel
Obey is a really cool company that promotes causes through their clothing. It has many causes they’ve raised money to promote sustainability. From offering relief funds for japan to funding a mural in downtown LA. They are giving back one T-shirt at a time. One of the T-shirts I bought promotes sustainability for the environment. The factory they sourced the shirt from is called Eco life Yarns by Belda Llorens. During the yarn spinning process, they create a circular economy. 1.6 recycled plastic bottles and .10 lbs recycled cotton is used per T-shirt. The factory also only uses 87 gallons of water per shirt. They use no chemicals and save by using 75% of their energy from solar panels.
Our shopping decisions are personal and there are degrees of preparedness. An environmentally conscious person believes in recycling plastic. The activist is conscious of their environmental impact all the time. Yet, a minimalist believes recycling is not the solution and hasn’t worked thus far.
Either way, it’s important to make decisions that can help to change how we do business. It may not be easy to do this all the time. But, as long as your trying that’s what really matters.
On the flip side, there are those that could care less about what happens to the environment. Unfortunately, these people need to become a part of the modern world. The argument that we don’t need to change our shopping habits is pointless. We don’t have time to talk anymore. We need to take action now!
Keep going!
The most common household products used are the biggest culprits in waste. Toothpaste tubes and toothbrushes are one of the largest contributors to a single-use lifestyle. They contain 100% plastic and have a short lifespan of just three to four months. If you want to make a difference in the way you live your life read this post and learn about the seven everyday essentials for a more meaningful life.
Garbage. We all have it. Between recycling plants, overseas shipping, local landfills, and incineration facilities, there is a lot of it! Spending family time on waste management is a fact of life! Canadian families create more waste per capita than anyone else in the entire world! This is why eco-living in 2020 is the most important reason to act now. These three new years resolutions are important in 2020
This is a record I’m sure Canadians are not proud to hold! But the truth is we can’t rely on recycling alone to solve methane output and plastic pollution. Recycling makes people feel like they’re doing their part. They believe it’s what makes the world right. The key to solving waste management issues.
However, companies have created an overpackaging nightmare. This is why relying on recycling actually gives us a false sense of hope! The endless onslaught of garbage will never cease to end. Unless we can do something about it! Unless people begin to apply an eco-living element to their lifestyle.
Plastic: A modern-day convenience
Plastic makes up our everyday essentials. Its a way of life. It’s a big deal and it’s affecting many lives positively. The very reason why no one has been complaining until recently.
Our relationship with cars and Airplanes has made our lives easier, faster and convenient. However, by volume, cars are made up of 50% plastic. Like airplanes, car companies are making them with plastic components because they’re lightweight. It gives better gas mileage and improves design features.
Everything from safety gear to sports equipment… so much plastic! Shoes, skates, pads, balls, and sticks all contribute to plastic pollution. Plastic glasses help us see through the day. It’s in the medical devices that help us live our lives longer. We mold plastic and shape them into a myriad of prescriptions. It’s no wonder we’re addicted to using this synthetic material.
Addictions require an intervention
Food and Beverage Companies use plastic bottles to deliver their products to us. We’ve relied on them to give us the hydration we need. So do you blame them for using plastic to get it to us? In the 1950’s cigarette companies advertised their product as “good for your health”. The water companies say the same thing.
Do bottled water companies really understand the side effects of plastic? It’s a challenging dilemma. What we know now is the relationship between consumer and manufacturer has come at a cost. Today our reliance on plastic has caused massive amounts of waste. It’s dumped, incinerated and misplaced around the world.
The Environmental justice group named Coca Cola the number 1 plastic polluter in the world. Coca Cola has stated, a business won’t be business if we don’t accommodate the customers. This means they’re not willing to find an alternative bottle. If they won’t change than we the people have to change.
Reality of recycling
What we need to do is find a way that actually deals with the problem. Canada has shipped most waste overseas to countries called “end markets”. However, there is a lack of International Government transparency and often poor labor standards. We sell it to poorer countries who either incinerate it, place it in landfills or illegally dump it!
Processing garbage hasn’t resulted in more post-consumer products. According to the United Nations, recycling has only accounted for 9% of post-consumer products. That leaves 91% of the total waste accumulated unaccounted for!
Even if there is a state of the art sorting facility recycling isn’t going to help. The law directs recycling facilities to sort material responsibly. Therefore, all the waste in the blue bin has to be recycled in a recycling plant.
But, the law changes once the waste is turned into bails. It then becomes a commodity subject to current market value. Since there are so many regions selling recycled material the market has become saturated. It has become an unfeasible business.
For instance, the paper has decreased in value by 110% and plastic bags are down 53% since 2017. These commodities have fallen in value because there is just so much of it!
This volatility is causing mass confusion in the industry.
Save money
To make matters worse, on Jan 1, 2018, China decided to ban foreign recyclables. Since then southeast Asian countries are taking the garbage. But, their recycling industry is much smaller. They’ve recently started turning the recycling away.
They’ve shipped 11 containers of plastic back to Canada. Plus, they’ve vowed to ship millions of tonnes of waste back to where they came. So now only the highest quality material can be sold overseas.
The costs of labor plus the commodity crash is costing Canadian Taxpayers loads of money. So much, in fact, the Ontario government must either raise taxes or cut social programs. Basically, the overpackaging and poor packaging choices ultimately costs taxpayers social programs!
Eco-living
Don’t just recycle it: Be picky about what you buy at the store. Companies often choose flashy nonrecyclable materials for their packaging. They’ll choose materials that cannot be recycled together but look great for marketing their product. Most people will just throw their packaging in the Blue Bin wishing it could be recycled. But, instead, it could potentially contaminate tonnes of waste. Think twice before you throw it in the blue bin!
Avoid buying items packaged in these materials.
Styrofoam: Who do we get to thank for making Styrofoam? This man-made material is banned in cities around the world. This stuff lasts 500 years or longer and is responsible for much of the world’s ocean garbage.
Teflon: Once Teflon enters your bloodstream it remains there. Nothing breaks Teflon down. You can find Teflon pans, appliances, utensils, and clothes. Avoid supporting the companies that sell these items. If they’re not selling it than manufacturing will decrease and less of this chemical will be released into the environment.
Plastic: Plastic bottles are a very big issue. We cannot rely on beverage companies to change. UNLESS they see a drop in sales. What you can do to facilitate a change NOW is to stop buying it.
Look for your drinks in glass containers. Glass can be recycled continuously without losing its purity. Whereas plastic can only be recycled once or twice. We mold things, laminate things, make crafts and cook with plastic. It has saturated our lives! 100 years ago it wasn’t as common but now we rely on it. It’s readily available, the easy option and makes sense in so many ways. Eco-living lifestyles must be creative when reducing waste.
Reduce your waste:
It seems every purchase I make people ask if I’d like a bag? Many people don’t think twice, they take it and move on with their day. People absent-mindedly put their fruit and vegetables in plastic bags! I know I’m not the only one that thinks this is CRAZY!
There are plenty of ways to reduce your waste. First, keep it simple. If you want to stop buying drinks with plastic bottles. It’s not too hard! Iced tea is a popular drink that offers a go-to fix for flavor. Making iced tea at home is super easy. Buy the flavor of loose leaf tea you prefer, add sugar. Done.
Here is another solution for a more complex waste challenge. For example, those little Keurig coffee pucks people love to use! Surprise!! They’re wasteful. SO, for the latte loving coffee people, the next logical step would be to buy an espresso machine. Yet, is it really the best option? The volume of waste once it’s life is over is quite big.
The best option? The Bodum is good but it also contains plastic. What I’ve been using is a stainless steel sieve. The perfect sieve will sit on the lip of your coffee cup. It uses a hook that curls over the lip of the cup. You can easily pour hot water over the espresso grounds. It makes the perfect cup of coffee!
Clean Your recyclables
Since there is always some waste in our world of eco-living. Make sure you clean your recyclables. Clean any packaging of food scraps, oil, and coffee stains.
It also doesn’t work if there are two different types of material. For instance, paper coated in plastic or metal foil on paper. Contaminants such as these ruin tonnes of “clean recycling bales” meant for post-consumer products.
An army of overpackaged products has taken over stores and our lives! There are ways to reduce your waste and it’s not hard to do it once you know the way. Read more here about how you can make a difference.
Create goals that matter
Eco-living reduces waste and also reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
We can’t rely on recycling to be the answer to our pollution problems. We can’t keep throwing our trash into the landfills. Landfill waste and recycling all generate greenhouse gas emissions. Foreign countries are also dumping our garbage and incinerating it. We’ve created this fire breathing monster and it’s heating things up!
Let your New Years’ resolution make a difference in the world. Start now and see how eco-living can make a difference. It just takes one change a day to help make the world a better place!
There are lots of eco-living ideas. It’s as easy as baking a loaf of bread or a dozen cookies. You can reduce your reliance on single-use packaging. Find out what else you can do to create a happier, healthier lifestyle. These four successful shopping tips will take you to the next level. It offers great tips for you and your sustainable life and home.
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans, and grass-root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bagsare a good way to support artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy, and Eco-friendly planet.
Curious to know more about the Southeast Asian communities? Click the link below
Being young and healthy is what we crave to be! Finding the bottle of eternal youth is everyone’s dream. What if I told you if you change one thing in your beauty regime you’ll become a healthier person! Customizing your own perfume CAN make you healthier!
Last week I posted about eco-friendly finds at the local Christmas market! Along the way, I found a sweet-smelling product amongst the handmade goods. I found essential oils.
Support ethical companies
These oils come from a company that sources sustainable products and ethical standards. Their standards empower the community in which it grows and allows the environment to thrive.
This is why I dove in! To support a company with these principles now…not later! I swear time gets sucked into the void. Each day flies by so fast! I run into the next day without fully appreciating the last!
Make it your New Year’s goal to support companies that are transparent. My goal is to make these companies easier to find. To give you a clear path towards buying sustainable products.
Who is Doterra?
Doterra is a well-established company that operates on “Co-Impact Sourcing.” principles. It’s two main goals are:
Source ideal growing conditions in native countries. Plants grown in their natural environments are happy plants and they’ll thrive
Care for the well-being of the farmers, distillers and local communities. Giving back dignity and profits to those that work hard. It just makes the world a happier place!
These principles should be a good enough reason to try the product. Yep, I did it! I jumped in and became a member! You can find essential oils in any grocery store, drug store, health food store. But no one outlines their sustainable actions better than Doterra.
Plants offer amazing health benefits but it’s their beautiful scents that attract me the most. It’s just like nature’s candy. It delights the senses attracting love and friendship.
Perfume past and present
Essential oils have been used as perfumes since 2000 BC. Kings, Queens, and Nobles would wear it. The rarity of an essential oil distillery made it expensive. Therefore, those that had the money could afford to buy it. Peasants and laymen would envy the soft floral scents.
However, in recent history, perfume has become a product for the mainstream population. Rockstars are customizing their own perfume and selling it back to us. But, why let them tell you what smells good for you? You’re better off customizing your own perfume.
Synthetic fragrances
Today Chemists are playing around with man-made synthetic chemicals. Consequently, these synthetic chemicals are derived from a petroleum base (oil). Perfumes also have chemicals that disrupt those little glands responsible for hormones. Between that and the known carcinogens within the solution, It’s no wonder we get sick!
Also, fragrance can make sensitive bodies do things they’re not supposed too. Dizziness and confusion are some of the minor side effects associated with synthetic perfumes. Our sniffer can be super sensitive and strong scents can damage to our bodies.
The psychology of perfume
Perfume is powerful. Studies have shown that it is the only substance that crosses the blood-brain barrier. What the heck is the blood-brain barrier? It’s basically the super soaking wall that allows molecules to flow through the nose and into the goo that surrounds our brain. It separates the brain from the blood and the central nerve’s fluid. The brain’s subconscious attraction lures us into buying a specific scent.
For instance, Nostalgia, feelings of happiness and satisfaction lures us into a purchase. The smell of a room stimulates the brain to create long-lasting memories. For instance, the scent of a home-cooked meal or mom’s perfume stays with us for years.
When we buy we want something to give us excitement, fond memories or peace of mind. So, we use it every day and wear it on special occasions. Spending hundreds of dollars on it is not out of the question. The global perfume market is estimated to be worth over 31 billion dollars (USD). The market is expected to rise even further into 2025. It facilitates our need for a scent meant to project the sense of who we are!
Customize your own perfumes
I believe our take on synthetic scents lacks a sense of Scents-ibility! Healthy living and saving money can go together. You don’t have to look too far since you can find 100% essential oils at the click of a mouse.
So, take it to the next level and make your own scent. Playing with the different smells of each plant can give you a signature scent. Florals, spices, citrus, these notes are blendable.
The cool thing about blending essential oils is the pure chemistry involved! The base note, mid-note, and top note can all be customized. As a result, you can make your own scent and you’ll glow all day long!
The heart and soul of Oil
For a good carrier oil, you can use a Fractionated coconut oil. Or if you want a watery consistency use 1/4 cup of boiled water plus 1/4 cup of Club 190 Grain alcohol or perfumers alcohol.
Base notes: From woody to sweet these scents are carried for the longest amount of time. It will likely stay with you for the majority of the day. 15-20% of the scent will stay for 24 hours. Good examples of a Base note include Jasmine or Vanilla.
Mid notes: The heart of your scent is 50-80% of your scent. This scent will be with you for the majority of the day. You get to decide if you are a spicy or fruity kinda person. Many girls enjoy the floral scents of a good mid-note. Juniper or ylang-ylang are perfect examples.
Top note: It’s the first impression and often citrusy which won’t stick around for very long. Light fragrances such as Bergamot Eucalyptus or Peppermint are a good top note.
Customizing your own perfume is easy!
Blending ratio
When beginners learn to blend their own perfume they should only use 15 drops of essential oils total. It can become expensive if you make a mistake while experimenting with combinations. At this point in the discovery don’t bother using carrier oils yet.
Try it on your body so that you can decide if your body chemistry changes the natural scent. Then once you can commit to the fragrance you can make bigger batches.
The Growing up herbal Blog suggests you use the 30-50-20 rule. You will use 30% top notes, 50% middle notes, and 20% base notes. Give custom scents as a gift for friends and family!
So, stop and talk to a Doterra wellness advocate selling essential oils today. It’s an opportunity to learn about the health benefits of the plant world. In addition to its benefits, you will save money. Customizing your own perfume is an affordable way to feel healthier.
Plus, you’ll support an ethical industry and support a community of farmers and distillers. Lastly, make it your goal to start using products that are 100% NATURAL in 2020! Create those warm and fuzzy feelings we look for in life. You’ve found the trifecta of perfume perfection.
It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans, and grass-root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bags are a good way to support artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy, and Eco-friendly planet.
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Who We Are.
We believe a more holistic approach is vital in todays shopping climate. A connection that embraces a healthier standard for the world around us! Because a CONSCIOUS choice creates change. We strive to uplift your mind, body and soul with these planet friendly products! Were raising consumer awareness and offering solutions for your home. A planet, people, product platform working to empower people to reflect and become part of the solution the world needs right now!
