Journey to a Green Sanctuary - February 2022

The plastic invasion of the planet is a reality. Just remember that the plastic waste island floating in the Pacific Ocean now measures 1.6 million km2. Plastic has become a constant element in our lives. It's everywhere: product packaging, cosmetic ingredients, textiles, mobile phones, etc. It's even in the chewing gum you might be chewing on right now! Its omnipresence is such that many would find the mere fact of giving it up a difficult task. Reducing the consumption of plastics therefore requires not only a change in habits, but also a change of mindset.”
(Iberdrola.com)
 
Yes! A change in mindset. My switching from using plastic to paper sandwich bags doesn’t put a dent in the relentless climate crisis, or even the plastic invasion. Yet, it is movement in that direction. It is a shift in my mindset. It opens an awakening and builds the intention to walk this world in a more sustainable way, a kinder, loving way. Everything I think, say and do affects my immediate environment and those around me, and this ripples out to affect the world. I am affecting the world, one small step at a time. Changing my mindset changes the mindset of the world. It is shifting. It is shifting. I will keep the kindness of sustainability moving forward. And this need not be a grim undertaking. Gratefulness overwhelms me, when I allow myself to simply to be, immersed in the timeless moment, One with all that is, was, and forever shall be.
 
Be kind to the Earth and all its creatures. Especially your self. Don’t beat yourself up. All it takes is one kind step. Take a kind step toward healing your self; take a kind step toward healing the world.
 
It is easier than you think to reduce the consumption of plastics. Here are a few ideas:
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· Avoid single-use plastics such as drinking straws, plates and cutlery. These types of products have viable alternatives.
· When you go shopping, remember to bring a reusable bag.
· If you chew gum, look for natural and organic options.
· Buy more bulk food, support your local farmers and community gardens. Grow your own food.
· When your Tupperware wears out, replace it with glass or steel containers. (They now make stretchable silicone lids.)
 
Remember that even the smallest actions have a positive impact on the planet. Even something as simple as buying wooden instead of plastic clothes pins for hanging out laundry. By setting an example you may get your friends and family to join you in being kind to our planet. Find ways to reuse plastic packaging. Exercise your creativity. For instance: there is a technique for weaving plastic bags into reusable (for hundreds of years) grocery/shopping bags. Plastic peanut butter jars seal tightly and work great for storing leftover paint/liquids or nuts/bolts. Recycle. Pay close attention and make sure that you put your plastic waste in the correct container.

- Monte High, UUCGV Green Team