Cohousing-L Mailing List: guidelines for sustainable and eco-conscious living in cohos

[Jim Bronson (jimbronsonashland]

Dear Cohousing-L readers.

Such a good question from our Bay State brothers and sisters.  Here's a
possibly helpful set of principles/guidelines from UNICEF that relate to
the UN Millennium Development Goals <https://www.unicef.org/mdg/>, a global
framework for achieving those objectives, that were established in 2000 to
improve critical areas of human development, including child survival,
education, and safe water.

My Sweetie, Sandi, and I have been offering classes in sustainable living
and solutions to our climate crisis.  We would love to be in touch with
other coho folks about bringing sustainability principles to our beloved
communities.

Jim Bronson
River Song Cohousing, Eugene, OR (14 weeks into our build)
jimbronsonashland [at] gmail.com




7 Ways To Live Sustainably

Commitment at the highest levels of government is key to achieving
sustainable development. But each of us has a role to play, too. Here are
some simple adjustments we can all make to leave the world a better place
for future generations.
1. Get Educated

Understanding the latest news on the most pressing environmental issues is
a great place to start. Find out how your actions and habits feed into the
problems we face, then see where your elected officials stand on the
issues. Armed with this knowledge, you can make informed decisions about
who to support and how to take action to create a more sustainable world.
2. Limit Waste

Reducing the waste we generate, especially non-biodegradable waste, is one
of the most important things we can do for the environment. So many of the
things we throw away end up in landfills or get dumped into the ocean,
where they pollute the water and pose a threat to sea life. You and your
family can help by reducing the waste you generate to the bare minimum.

Begin by replacing single-use plastic items in your home with reusable
versions. Dispense with disposable dining ware and cutlery, straws, plastic
bags (of all kinds), to-go cups, take-out containers and water bottles. All
of these products now come in reusable alternatives made from stainless
steel, bamboo, cotton and other more eco-friendly
<https://www.unicefusa.org/stories/eco-green-tips-safe-environment/35819>
 materials.

Reducing packaging is another way to be kind to the planet. Anything you
order and have shipped to you is likely to come with far more packaging
than needed, so when possible, support companies that keep packaging to a
minimum and shop in person whenever you can. At the grocery store, opt for
unwrapped produce and items in bulk and make sure to bring a tote along, so
you don't have to ask for a plastic bag or box to get it all home.
3. Limit Atmospheric Emissions

Being mindful of what's released into the atmosphere is just as important
as reducing what's discarded on earth. That's why taking steps to limit
carbon emissions is another cornerstone of sustainable living.

Airplanes are one of the most significant emissions sources; even short
trips have a massive impact on the environment. Limiting flights and
choosing to travel by land (or sea) can reduce your carbon footprint and
save money, too. But when that’s not possible, choose the most direct
route, ideally a nonstop flight. For land travel, take public
transportation where it’s available, carpool with friends or co-workers,
walk or cycle.

Shopping locally will also cut down on emissions, save you shipping costs
and support the businesses in your community. Eating foods grown nearby
instead of those shipped from far away reduces transport emissions — plus
you'll get fresher options.

If what you're looking for isn't available at your neighborhood shops or
accessible via public transportation, consider shopping at an online Fair
Trade market. When you shop Fair Trade, you support companies that are
committed to a sustainable means of production and safe working
environments and fair compensation for their workers.

To support the Fair Trade movement and help children, too, check out UNICEF
Market <https://www.market.unicefusa.org/>'s online collection of
beautifully crafted items for the home
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/home-decor/> along with jewelry
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/unique-gifts/womens/jewelry/>, clothing
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/unique-gifts/womens/clothing/> and an
eclectic line of eco-friendly products
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/eco-friendly/>. UNICEF Market is
committed to improving conditions for vulnerable producers around the world
and helping makers build vital businesses that support their families and
communities. Plus, a percentage of each UNICEF Market purchase goes toward
supporting UNICEF's lifesaving work for children.
4. Conserve Water and Energy

Many easy-to-implement lifestyle changes will conserve water and energy.

Turn the water off while washing your hands and brushing your teeth, take
shorter showers, and only run the washing machine and dishwasher when
they’re full. Replace standard faucets and showerheads with low-flow
models. If your toilets, washing machine or dishwasher are older, chances
are they consume a lot of water. If you can afford it, springing for newer
models that are more efficient will help cut down on both the water and
power you use — and save you money, too.

Similarly, efforts to limit energy use quickly add up to big savings. Turn
off lights when you leave the room, unplug appliances that aren’t in use
and know what you're looking for before you open the refrigerator door.
Skip the drying cycle in the dishwasher, and consider line-drying your
clothes if you have space. Use air-conditioning and heating judiciously,
and adjust the thermostat when you’re not at home.
5. Avoid Toxic Chemicals

Harmful chemicals lurk in everything, from toiletries to cleaning products.
Before you buy new products, look at the list of ingredients. Toxic
offenders include oxybenzone, sodium lauryl sulfate, formaldehyde,
triclosan, parabens, and chlorine bleach. Switch out your standard products
for alternatives from eco-friendly brands. Though more eco-friendly options
can be pricier, they don't come with the health risks posed by harsh
chemicals. Have the time to get creative? Many home-cleaning products can
be replaced with simple DIY solutions.
6. Travel Responsibly

Whether you're on the move for work or pleasure, travel takes a toll on the
environment, and it isn't just the carbon emissions doing the damage. Many
eco-friendly habits we've worked hard to establish fall by the wayside when
we're away from home. But with a little planning, you can go green on the
road.

Choose the most sustainable transportation options you can, don’t forget to
pack reusable items and remember to conserve water and energy. Beyond that,
refuse the daily towel changes in hotels, and leave the miniature
toiletries — which use conspicuous amounts of plastic — undisturbed. When
traveling for leisure, avoid cruises and all-inclusive resorts, which are
prone to waste, and opt for destinations off the beaten path. You'll avoid
the crowds and have fun discovering hidden gems.
7. Advocate for Change

We’re all responsible for our own choices, but promoting sustainability in
your personal and professional networks can make a real difference. Pushing
your workplace to adopt more eco-friendly policies, getting involved in
sustainable programs at your child’s school or campaigning for ballot
initiatives that protect the environment are ways to build community and
create a better world.

*If you want to shop for good, UNICEF Market helps
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/>**makers of handmade artisanal goods
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/> **build sustainable businesses that
support their families and their communities. At the same time, proceeds
from every UNICEF Market purchase help to fund UNICEF's work to save and
protect the world’s most vulnerable children. *
<https://www.market.unicefusa.org/>