The last place you’d think you have to worry about plastics is in your laundry, but unfortunately they’re rampant there as well. For years, I used the liquid version of Purex (choosing the most “nature” variety, free of dyes), but that arrived, of course, in a non-recycle-friendly plastic jug. I then switched to laundry sheets, thinking I had done myself and the world a big favor, only to find out that those “eco-friendly sheets” are FULL of microplastics.
So I did what I’ve been doing throughout these transitions and thought back to the basics: What did people in prior generations use to clean their clothing without polluting themselves and the world? The answer: They used laundry powder. A simple combination of non-harmful agents that still dissolved well in water and cleansed their clothes thoroughly.
So I tried several varieties with mixed results until I found the one that is reasonably affordable, has pleasant scents, cleans all types of fabrics beautifully (and gently), plus offers quick shipping on refills when need be.
That favorite is Meliora, who will get you going with a starter kit (reusable canister) and then send you refills that arrive in minimal paper bag packaging. You can subscribe or buy these items all as needed. Their powder is fresh (I prefer the lemon scent, but all are lovely), comes with a reusable metal scoop and uses a small amount for each load.
One more successful transition away from our toxic world.
My efforts to remove plastic from every part of my routine continue with the fourth item in my daily repertoire, storage bags.
I’m one of those people who cannot stand to have a refrigerator with any odor whatsoever. I have always been fanatic about tightly sealing leftover food and containers, for years using more Ziplock bags than I care to admit.
Of course, they are single-use plastics at their worst and contrary to my environmental values, so I had to find an alternative. Enter: Stasher.
I first heard about these on Chrissy Teigen’s website and ordered a set just to test them. They passed with flying colors, keeping everything from lemon wedges to cheese fresh for days without leaving any weird flavor behind on the food.
What I love is that they are easily washable on the top dishwasher rack and can be reused forever (I’ve had a few since pre-pandemic times and they’re still strong as ever). They also release new colors and patterns fairly often, so if you get bored using the clear version, many options are available.
They’re also great for stashing (pun intended) movie snacks and non-food items like hair ties when traveling.
Though there are several vital policies dividing voters in the Georgia senate race, the one that reaches far beyond the residents of that state is the fight against climate change.
As someone who votes clear across the country, I beg those eligible to vote in Georgia to please consider our natural world when you complete your ballot.
There are clear differences in the stances of each candidate. Here’s a snapshot in case the voter pamphlets aren’t thorough on the often-overlooked topic:
David Perdue has an abysmal voting record when it comes to the environment. One only has to look at his Conservation Scorecard to see where he stands on the climate crisis.
Kelly Loeffler is one of the strongest supporters of President Trump’s anti-environmental policies, most likely because she personally profits from them.
Rev. Raphael Warnock, Loeffler’s opponent, has perhaps the best record of fighting for Mother Earth, from supporting efforts to rejoin the Paris Climate Accord to bringing leaders together to take action on the environment, the list is long.
Georgia voters, we need you now more than ever. Please cast your votes for Jon Osoff and Rev. Raphael Warnock. Our lives literally depend on it.
If you live outside of Georgia and would still like to help, make a donation here.
While Covid-19 devastates the human population worldwide, its consequences lessen the impact of the climate crisis.
Italy, France and Spain are on lockdown, the U.S. has closed schools nationwide, Canada has sealed its borders. With nearly 8,000 deaths and over 198,000 infected across the globe, there is a collective sadness permeating our reality. It may seem difficult to find a silver lining in such trying times, but there is one: The benefits to the environment that this pandemic ripple effect provides.
Less Transportation Pollution
Major tech companies have implemented mandatory telecommuting for their employees, which removes thousands of commuters from the rush hour equation. In addition, multiple airline carriers will be forced to reduce flight schedules in the coming months (which will hopefully also end ‘ghost’ flights). Both of these actions result in a vast reduction of pollution and conservation of fuel. Furthermore, if companies that haven’t previously permitted telecommuting see productivity remain consistent, it may encourage them to adapt the policy long-term.
Waste Reduction
The news reels after major sporting events and music festivals almost always show massive amounts of garbage generated by audiences, the majority of which ends up in landfills. With the cancellation of large gatherings and conferences that bring thousands of people together, large volumes of waste won’t be generated. This reduces the release of methane and the greenhouse effect that would result from it.
Plant-based vs. Meat Consumption
Another way the coronavirus impact reduces methane production is through our altered pattern of food consumption. As officials are advising everyone to stock up on non-perishable items, it’s pasta, rice and beans that are flying off store shelves instead of meat and dairy products. Furthermore, restaurants are closing or remaining open only for carry-out meals, which causes them to order less food for preparation, including meats.
Recovery of Natural Areas
With quarantines in place and non-essential travel nearly eliminated, many resorts, parks, beaches and other natural spaces that would usually see a lot of activity from humans are getting a break. This means an organic rehabilitation not unlike (yet not as regimented) as what the government of Boracay, Philippines did a few years back to restore their damaged environment.
Healthy Actions for Ourselves and Mother Earth
So, what’s the best way we as individuals can both protect ourselves from the outbreak and be good stewards of the environment along the way?
Respect grocery store limits so your less vulnerable neighbors won’t be short of any necessary supplies or food.
Continue to recycle, remember to care for your plants and flowers, and avoid single-use plastics. Basically, do all of the things you would normally do to foster a healthy environment.
Above all else, remember to breathe, practice social distancing and limit the amount of disaster news you consume each day.
