
To celebrate Earth Day! Let's commit to changing our habits for the better.
There has been a lot of discussion of late on how we as consumers can change our habits to improve the environmental impact. From replacing plastic bags with paper or cloth to the straws in restaurants question. I've decided to take every opportunity to change my habits and anything of interest I'll post to this blog.
Big in the media lately, the message is clear - Stop using plastic! That means plastic water bottles, plastic bags, plastic straws and so much more.
- It is everywhere and now apparently there are small particles in water bottles.
- Restaurants in PEI are changing their straw policy - they would rather you not use one but if you do, it will be a paper one.
- Plastic Bag Reduction Act - proposed as a private member's bill, we can only hope that the Liberal MLA is supported by both his collegues and other Parties.
Some small changes so far:
1) No more aluminum foil - I use parchment paper to cover pans if needed when cooking and put left overs in class containers that they can be reheated in.
2) Replacing dishes with more durable, long lasting ones made from copper/steel lined, steel bowls, etc.
3) Glass water bottles for traveling, rather than plastic water bottles - our well water is of good quality and tested yearly.
4) A French press for coffee rather than a coffee maker or K-cup machine.
5) Added a mattress topper to our mattress rather than replacing the mattress.
Working on trying to examine each area of our life and make small changes to eliminate waste, reduce energy use, and conserve water.
Want to Recycle things you don't use anymore:
- Electronics - computers, displays, mice, printers, audio, home systems etc.
- Batteries - Sobeys/Superstore have drop off boxes or call2Recycle
- Mattresses/Household Furniture - Bibles for Missions, Habitat Restore, Salvation Army, Gifts from the Heart Inc., all accept used furniture. Contact WWDC - Waste Watch Disposal Centre 1-888-280-8111 since mattresses can be recycled for re-manufacturing.