As we enjoy the last days of summer, and (frantically?) get ready for back to school, it’s the perfect time to simplify.
Adapt your “new” routine so that it saves you some time, some money and strengthens your health and well-being…we could all use that for our families! By challenging yourself to create new, eco-happier habits, you’ll be inspired to live a healthier life, you’ll be making the world a better place, supporting good people and companies and not creating excess litter and waste! Always remember that your money is your power and what you spend is a vote for something, so make every penny count.
Here are a 10 “easy” things to get in the swing of doing better – try as many as you can and pass it on…you know there are others to come!
1. Take your shoes off at your front door – why bring that outdoor road gunk inside (lead included)?
2. Don’t buy unnecessary and un-NEEDED school supplies and toys and make sure all is pvc, lead & phthalate free. Why are they in our stuff in the first place? Read Slow Death by Rubber Duck to learn more.
3. Turn the water off while brushing your teeth…there is NO reason why this can’t start happening today!
4. Make sure your tires are properly inflated before your carpools start – just ask how to check at your next service call if you don’t know how.
5. I’m hoping that you’re excited knowing that this next point was checked off your list ages ago - NO PLASTIC water bottles…disposable or reusable…use a Klean Kanteen
6. Pack waste-free lunches – Oprah, Martha Stewart and Rachel Ray all agree. And, if you are not packing your own lunch, remember to TakeOut WithOut
7. Inspire your school or organization to run an eco-friendly, intelligent fundraiser like the one from www.ecause.ca
8. Source one new and very safe personal care item…maybe mascara, toothpaste or a shampoo…wondering why only one? I know once you get started, you’ll keep going. Try Green Beauty or your local health food store.
9. Use a triclosan-free and safe hand sanitizer for on the go – my choices are Quash, Clean George or Cleanwell – all available from www.goneshopping.ca
10. Donate some stuff! As we buy new shoes, jeans and winter boots and school supplies (how lucky are we to be privileged enough to do this?!), recycle stuff you don’t use and give it to someone who needs it.
Happy falling back into it all – and best wishes for a healthy and successful school year!
Lisa Borden is an eco-advocate and mother of three, whose business is a direct reflection of her commitment to better, more responsible living. She is a dedicated workaholic, admitting that it takes a lot of time and effort to change the world, especially in her non-preachy, fun, engaging and inspiring ways. Lisa consults, writes, engages the media, runs private workshops, and enjoys speaking to large and small groups. Her full-service marketing firm, Borden Communications + Design Inc. is based in Toronto and takes great pride in being an ethical business providing exceptional ideas. You can sign up for Lisa’s rants and raves at www.bordencom.com or reach her directly at lisa@bordencom.com.
© Lisa Borden 2010
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