Even the greenest among us face challenges from time to time. I’m progressing in my journey towards a more environmentally and socially responsible life, but I still have a long way to go. I don’t always remember to take my reusable bags into the store and occasionally a cardboard toilet paper roll ends up in the trash instead of in the recycling bin.
Some of what holds me back is my lack of knowledge. There are things I’m unsure about and at times the thought of hunting down all the information seems daunting. I’m learning to reach out, though. Just last week, after officially declaring the end of the sippy cup in my house, I found myself with a bag full of #5 plastics. I hated the thought of throwing them away, but my county doesn’t recycle this particular variety. On a whim, I sent an email to Beth Terry at Fake Plastic Fish, asking for ideas. She told me about Preserve’s Gimme 5 program. They will take #5 plastics and recycle them into other things. Even better, most Whole Foods stores have a collection bin. I contacted the Whole Foods in my area, and sure enough, they have a bin. Problem solved.
Sometimes we don’t have do all the research ourselves, we just have to ask for help.
I’d like to help you.
I’m really interested to know what challenges you face in your attempts to become more “green.” Feel free to write about them in the comments or to contact me directly. I’ll do my best to make your desire to live better an easier thing to do.
{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Beth, great question!
My biggest challenge is living in the suburbs and having access to local sustainable options. We aren’t open to relocating at this time due to school-age children etc. but I sometimes feel isolated from products and community. Two good things: 1) summer farmers market and 2) CSA right here in our town. Disadvantages: Not so ped-friendly (although better than most suburbs); Not many locally-sourced options for stuff other than seasonal produce; Not much of a supportive community. Would love to hear from other suburban folk who are trying to live lighter on this earth!
–Kristy (from Cubicle Nation forum)
Hi Kristy,
Thanks for taking the time to comment. It’s nice to see someone from the forum over here.
I, too, live in a suburb in a very non-progressive town in a very conservative state. I can relate to everything you’ve listed. It can be a real challenge.
I think lack of knowledge is where I’m at. We have curb-side pickup for our trash and recycling. SEVERAL times I’ve asked my husband, is this recyclable? I have no idea. That’s why I read your blog though
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