The arrival of October has fall on all our minds. I for one am a Halloween fanatic, and the entire month serves as a countdown to my favorite holiday. So while some of us are kicking off our sandals and reaching for the boots again, let’s sit down with a PSL (in a reusable mug!) to reflect on some things we can do this month to help the environment stay looking its best.
1. Be a part of the Eco-challenge!
I am really excited for this year’s eco-challenge, taking place October 14-28th, not only because it's about everything I stand for, but because there’s a specific challenge sponsored by The Story of Stuff Project, which is super cool and also worth checking out.
Not to be confused with the international race, this program challenges us to pursue one change of habit and commit for 2 weeks, while tracking progress online to earn points toward prizes. It is put on by the Northwest Earth Institute, a 23-year-old nonprofit organization based in Portland, OR.
There are many challenges available to choose from that are suitable for individuals, groups, or communities. The collective inspiration that a friendly competition amongst friends generates makes it easier and much more fun to continue these habits even after the two weeks. Last year, over 10,000 people participated in 25 different countries. They’re hoping for even more this year!
2. Need help deciding who to vote for?
If the presidential debate isn’t hard enough (or not hard at all) this year, check out the candidates' stances on various environmental issues. ... If they have a stance at all. For example, this year Hillary believes that we need green energy jobs & to build on Paris Agreement. (Mar 2016) and a federal takeover of the Flint water supply if the state can't fix it. (Feb 2016).
3. Bring your reusable mug.
Fall is the time of warm beverages! Not only does carrying around a hot drink keep your taste buds happy, it also radiates heat for your hands, and what’s better than keeping that warmth contained in an insulated reusable thermos?
4. D.I.Y. Halloween Costumes.
Saving my favorite for last here. I am a Pinterest fanatic and I see all kinds of projects for various levels of craftiness every time I check my feed. Especially for those of us in the lower to non-existent annual income ranges, secondhand stores will be your palace for materials! Supporting secondhand, thrift, consignment, vintage, or exchange stores helps those products avoid the landfill and doesn’t support mass produced costumes from pop-up shops that are unethical in many ways aside from the waste.
