Spring garden
Spring has finally arrived, signaling great opportunity to spring forward to a new commitment to sustainability. It is time to shed the winter doldrums and complacent attitude, clean out our living spaces and our heads and enjoy and get engaged in Nature’s annual rebirth.
We here at LGBG hope that our readers and supporters will commit or recommit to living a green and sustainable life.
The first step to achieving a sustainable lifestyle lies in the adoption of a mindset of sustainability. We all need to recognize that since the industrial revolution, people in western societies have erroneously held the belief that we could keep using the Earth’s resources for goods and services without concern for the environmental or social impact of these activities.[1] Now it is important for each of us to understand that we must use the Earth’s natural resources responsibly with the understanding that they are a loan and must be returned to the earth through a circular process that permits life on Earth to continue. In fact, we should aim to ensure that our life cycles cause no harm to the environment and actually improve it.
While this all may sound overwhelming, in practice it is not that difficult. The first step is awareness of the need to be sustainable. When it is time to do spring cleaning, the first task is to assess your true needs. Purge your closets, cabinets and drawers of unused clothing and household items, particularly those things that have not been used for at least two years. These articles can be given to friends, sold at yard sales or donated to charities. As a bonus, the last two options can be monetarily profitable. While cleaning your home, be aware of the products used. Instead of using harsh toxic chemicals that harm your possessions and your lungs, try to use earth-friendly cleaners or homemade cleaners. The important thing to remember is to take your time, think sustainable and do not become overwhelmed.
Perhaps your journey to sustainability begins with a focus on the outdoors. Maybe you want to try your hand at gardening. For starters, close your eyes and picture what you want to accomplish — a beautiful flower garden or deck arrangement, a bountiful vegetable garden or a luscious lawn. Start with a walk through a beautifully landscaped neighborhood or a visit to a public garden. Select a look that’s you. Research plants for your planting zone.
Planting zone map
Next, take time to do some research. Start on the computer to learn the basics of gardening. Visit a local garden store where customer service personnel can help with answers to your questions or help you with the necessary supplies to get started. Remember that beautiful gardens are the result of excellent soil preparation and maintenance.
We here at LGBG are proud to be your source for tips and support on your journey to sustainability. We welcome your ideas, questions and comments, as well as your commitment to join us on this journey. To do so is to live green, be green.
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1. http://www.me-to-we.org/the_power_of_sustainable_thinking__how_to_create_a_positive_future_
for_the_clima_107233.htm.