Climate Change is a real Threat
By: Larraine Roulston
We enter December realizing that climate change is a real threat.
With this month’s traditional celebrations, renowned for
its avalanche of waste, everyone needs to embrace the holiday
season by consuming less.
Christmas is about giving joy to children, and there is no future
joy for them if we continue to trash the planet. Although the
reality is grievous, it’s not entirely without hope. Parents
need to understand the anxiety of today’s youth who are
actively crying out for political and corporate leadership. At
the same time, adults need to become leaders themselves. In 2021,
plan a green holiday season.
During the celebrations, if you haven’t already done so,
shift the emphasis from glittery wrapped presents (many of which
are unwanted anyway) to enjoying a variety of local experiences.
Giving your time to repair or revamp something also provides a
special treat.
A potted tree can be planted in the spring or obtained from a
sustainable tree farm. LED lights use an average of 75% less energy
and should last up to 25 times longer. If you choose an artificial
tree, strive to locate one second hand.
Create or purchase durable decorations that will last. For extra
colour, drape a popcorn/cranberry chain or dangle glazed fruit
that later can be set out for birds or be composted.
Purchase local wines as well as look for other spirits in glass
bottles. Returnable beer bottles are more eco-friendly than cans.
Support local retailers and thrift stores. Reusable tote bags
are most commonly seen in grocery stores; however, be sure to
take yours into all the stores you visit.
Any special gifts can be wrapped in fabrics, plain brown recyclable
paper or reusable gift bags. Packages can be adorned with sprigs
of spruce, cedar or pine. Save wool and ribbons for reuse.
Ask your family to donate to the Food Bank, homeless shelters
and environmental causes in lieu of your personal gift.
As soft lighting with candles is popular, choose ones made from
natural wax rather than paraffin. Burning these are also better
for your health.
Telephone calls are often a more meaningful way to keep in touch
than by mailing greeting cards.
Put a ‘made in Ontario’ Living Composter filled with
red wigglers under your tree – especially if you live in
an area or dwelling that does not have an organics collection
program. These industrious little residents will provide you with
amazing compost for house/balcony plants.
The gift of laughter – something we can all use –
is available on Zoom. For this unique idea, check out http://www.cathysclub.com/.
Giving nutrient rich foods, such as a jar of local honey, or
a bean sprouter would be appreciated during these times of food
shortages. During the holidays, a staggering amount of food is
generally wasted. Utilize all leftovers in soups and casseroles
and freeze for future meals. Even broken cheeses from fancy tray
spreads can be scooped up and added to macaroni and cheese. Strive
to serve more veggies and less meat.
Sadly, we have been conditioned to view the festive season through
the lens of ‘consumerism’. Many families have made
the connection already that it’s within their power of purchase
to avoid waste and change expectations and habits in order to
preserve a living, healthy planet.
Related Links:
https://www.realhomes.com/us/advice/10-tips-for-an-eco-friendly-christmas
ttp://www.cathyscomposters.com/newsletter/Nov%2021/Nov2021_Newsletter.htm
Larraine writes children’s books on composting and pollinating.
To view, visit www.castlecompost.com
