Stair-Steppin’ for the Environment

Some people resist taking measures to live a low-impact lifestyle because they’re afraid it will be too hard. They’re not interested in saying goodbye to convenience, splurges and fun to adopt a tough, pioneer-style existence.

I’m here to say, “That isn’t the only choice.”

You don’t have to start out selling your car and turning off your electricity!

This is a process much like climbing stairs. In my mind, I visualize a massive staircase like the one in Chichen itza, Mexico (see picture). It looks overwhelming at first, but as you take it one step at a time you make fast progress. If you climb too fast or if you get winded you can always stop and rest. If you’re climbing with someone else, you might need to pause and wait for them to catch up. Start slowly and keep climbing.

Here are a few places to start:

   • Recycle as much as you can.
   • Learn how to dispose of any hazardous waste at earth911.
   • Wash your clothes in cold water.
   • Swap out your regular light bulbs for compact fluorescent.
   • Unplug appliances that you aren't using.
   • Carry a tote bag to the grocer.
   • Buy a reusable water bottle.
   • Rent or borrow anything that you wouldn’t use on a regular basis.
   • Buy quality so that it will last longer and not need to be replaced.
   • Repair items instead of buying new.
   • Donate clothes instead of throwing them into the garbage.
   • Cut back on paper products like paper plates and napkins.
   • Avoid purchasing products with excess packaging.
   • Use libraries.
   • Shop consignment stores.
   • Use re-chargeable batteries.
   • Utilize services like Freecycle.
   • Join a carpool.
   • Walk or ride your bike to work.
   • Have an energy audit.
   • Buy environmentally friendly products through Stacks and Stacks!

Start where you are, and gradually add simple steps as it feels comfortable to you. Once you start doing it you’ll realize how easy it is. In the words of the original environmentalist, Theodore Roosevelt, “ Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.”

Posted February 5, 2008, filed in Clutter Hack Links, Clutter Control Products, Living Simply, Less is More, Clutter Hacks