Last month, local blogger and environmentalist Donna Nichter, came to a Media Makers Meet-Up, which we hosted along with the Good Neighborhood and GreenWatch. As a result, Donna has published this first article in the series, WNY Green Meetup, on both Grow and The Good Neighborhood. We hope you'll join Donna - follow the series, share your environmental tips, and join her in-person at the WNY Green meetup, on April 6 at 6:30 PM.
I'm trying to be "green". I really am. And yet there's so much, it's sometimes challenging. For instance, one conversation inside my head may be about recycling and sound something like this, "I hate to see this in a landfill. Can I recycle it? Where? Guess I shouldn't have bought it to begin with. Maybe I can Freecycle it! Perhaps I didn't need it after all."
I read an article awhile ago about "eco-guilt". It highlighted some frustrations of trying to do our part. Good topic for a new 12-step program! For example, Step 5 - Admitted to God, to our selves, and to another human being the exact nature of our wrongs.
Ouch, here goes.
- I gave up on composting last year - it stunk.
- Once in awhile, I throw away a plastic bag.
- I bought chili today in a Styrofoam container (from a health food store, points?)
- I sometimes shop at Walmart.
Ugh, enough for now, your turn!
I know these in and of themselves are not the end of the world (are they?) Yet, it has always been my belief that change begins at home. First the idea, second the intention, and third the action. So what am I missing? Sometimes I'm lazy or don't make the time. I can generally come up with an excuse. But there are many times that I just don't know what or how to do something. That's where my idea for a community group comes in. I'd love to join with others stricken with guilt, uh, I mean with those that would like to do just a little bit more to lessen their impact on our lovely earth.
Maybe it's not about "being green" or not "being green". Maybe it's just like any other practice. The more you do it, the more you learn, the better you do it. It's a choice we make in each moment, something we strive toward. So, let's get together and support one another in carrying out our intentions, just like the 12 steps - "one day at a time".
To facilitate this endeavor I have created WNY Green Meetup. Let's make it a cooperative where we can have fun sharing knowledge, skills and support. Maybe some workshops, speakers and field trips. I'd like to learn how to de-stinkify my compost pile, how not to kill everything I plant, and could use a refresher on canning. And sometimes it's a challenge to get my family on board too. I can share some about healthier, safer household products, increasing energy efficiency and comfort in our homes and "green" community resources.
How about you? What would you like to learn and share? Check it out at http://www.meetup.com/Buffalo-Green-Meetup/ and let us know!
