What is the most important thing I should do to help the environment? I am overwhelmed by all the bad news.
Take one small step…..and when it becomes a habit, follow it with another. It’s true that environmental news and the reality of global warming can be daunting. I’ve long been a proponent of applying the Mother Theresa approach to environmentalism – saving the world for future generations, one soul at a time. It’s the daily, cumulative actions each of us takes that have the greatest impact.
There are the obvious choices:
– recycling
– switching to energy efficient appliances and light bulbs in your home
– carpooling or biking to work
– turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use
– choosing organic food
– using environmentally-friendly dry cleaners
– taking your own bag to the supermarket or farmer’s market
Today, that list is a given.
What may not be so obvious is creating a state of mindfulness for all your actions. Walking instead of driving when you forget that quart of milk, choosing a hybrid car at your next purchase, looking for eco-friendly labels in clothing, being sure that your home furnishings are made from sustainable or recycled materials. It all begins and ends with that first small step, followed by many more. With each step along this path and very little effort, you create a new way of living – one that feels right for you and the earth.