“Don’t forget your reusable bag”
“Skip the Straw, Save a Turtle”
“Bring your own reusable water bottle”
Browse social media or go to your local eco-friendly store or restaurant and I am sure you will come across these, as well as many other, sustainable living phrases. I love that as a community this has become trend-worthy and #hashtag approved. I am one of those out there pushing for everyday lifestyle changes we can all make that will have an impact on our footprint on the planet. And yes, there are many things we can be doing now, easy things that do have a positive effect on our environment; and if adopted by the masses, will make an even greater impact worldwide. But our single actions, no matter how small, or how insignificant you may feel it really is, is a step in the right direction, and a step towards making a difference.
But, what about the time that you had to stop for a few things on the way home and you forgot your reusable bag? Or you stopped through the drive-thru because you really did need that double chocolate-chip milkshake that came with a straw? Or, you are traveling, forgot your reusable bottle, and the only option is a single-use plastic water bottle? Yes it does happen. It happens every day, even to the most environmentally conscious eco-warrior out there. And I am here to tell you that’s OK. It’s not ideal, but it is OK. You are doing better than you were a few years ago, and a whole lot better than our parents and grandparents were back in the throw away generation of the 50’s.
We’ve come a long way since the days when single-use plastics were celebrated. A world of convenience. Just use it and throw it away!! Today we are more aware. We are moving in the right direction. We’re trying. We are your Everyday Eco-Conscious Amateur Conservationist.