Youve probably heard them. Expressions like Go Green, Save the Planet, Promote Peace on Earth, and Think Globally, Act Locally have been around for decades serving as mantras within movements and slogans for bumper stickers nationwide. OK, theyre catchy. But, what do these expressions really mean within the context of your life?
To me, they all boil down to a choice. Well, rather to choices. Each day that we wake up, we are granted new opportunities to create within our lives – to help mold our surroundings in ways that build on the lessons of our past, savor our present, and protect the future for all life on Earth. Expressions like those above are simply clever reminders of our responsibilities to nurture one another and the health of our planet through our every day choices. Here in the U.S., where our society is one of the most consumptiveand, subsequently, environmentally destructive in the world, the impact of our lifestyle choices each day could not be greater! Enter this series.
Here at Greenpeace, we are working for a thriving, green and peaceful planet. We get out there, bring attention to the horrible things that humans are doing to the planet, and motivate people, policy makers, and corporations to change them. Through this Green & Peaceful Living series, were inviting you to play an expanded role in our victories not just as Greenpeace, but also as fellow human beings. We are inviting you to learn about ways that your every day choices, from the toothpaste that you use to the dinner you eat can not only help to safeguard your health, but the health of this planet.
But, if things are so bad now, then why should we even try?
Well, youre correct in observing that things are bad right now. In mind of the earths age in geological time, our species hasnt been here long. Yet, in our short time here, the force of our destructive actions upon the earth has been daunting, leading to species extinctions at the scale of meteor strikes, volcanic eruptions, and other catastrophic climate changes in Earths ancient history. Our species has been pegged as the leading cause for climate change,and our biosphere as a whole is in a state of emergency.
But, if we use the level of destruction at our hands as an indicator for the sheer power of human creative force, then it is easy to see how simply changing human behavior starting with our own, individual behaviors is a cure more potent than our species has ever seen. The power of choice, within our every action, can empower us against any threat.
So, lets see how we can start treating Mother Earth as the mother that she is, and respect that her resources are finite and precious.
Want to get started right now? Check out these tips at how to start greening your day-to-day:
How to shop for sustainable seafood
Make sure your favorite brands don’t destroy forests
Shopping for toxic-free clothing
Meanwhile, just stay tuned! Well keep the flow of tips to green and peace your life coming. 😉
Til next time,
Christina: Green Living Enthusiast at Greenpeace
Read Christina’s first post on sustainable seafood shopping!
