I was in college when Woodsy Owl was born in the “Give a Hoot, Don’t Pollute” campaign. Since then, I have tried to cut down on the amount of trash that I give to the universe. I feel overwhelmed with how much garbage I throw away each week and I am just one person (with two cats) in a country with 330 million people.
In the US, consumption patterns have evolved resulting in great quantities of waste generated. The average American throws out 4.9 pounds of trash each day. This waste impacts not only the environment but also public health, urban landscapes, and economic resources. Our disposal habits load up landfills and exacerbates global warming.
I recognize that excessive trash requires a multifaceted approach. Public education campaigns and community projects such as electronic recycling days held in my community twice a year minimize environmental impacts. I, as an individual, also have a huge responsibility.
I strive to make mindful choices and adopt sustainable habits. I embody a minimalist approach by trying to reduce my consumption. I aim to purchase mostly what I need and not just what I want. I reuse containers as much as possible. I recycle paper, aluminum, and glass. I am not handy, but I attempt to fix broken items.
Unlike North Carolina, composting is difficult in Colorado because of the dry climate, but Deb’s chickens get the organic scraps that I have. I think about mindful eating by avoiding single-use plastics and other disposable products. My eating habits are inconsistent, however, since I am a lazy cook and often find getting take-out or a grab and go item in the grocery store easiest for me.
Two of my biggest peeves regarding trash are bottled water and the growing amount of micro-trash. I am proud to say that I can count on one hand the number of times I have purchased bottled water in the past few years. I endeavor to always carry a stainless-steel refillable bottle as well as a plastic coffee cup with me.
Micro-trash is mostly inadvertent. I am aware when I tear open a Kind bar, for example, because it is easy for the tiny top to fly off in the wind. When I volunteer in the park, I pick up far more pieces of mini trash than larger pieces of garbage. These bits add up.
I am struggling to reduce the amount of trash that comes out of my household. My kitties are responsible for pounds of litter that goes into my trash bags. Yet, I am not willing to part with these critters. Nevertheless, I think daily about more responsible consumption patterns and how I can minimize trash to play a small role in creating a healthier planet.
Good topic! I wish everyone would think of these things….
Terrific edition Karla. Our two kitties are responsible for the vast majority of heavyweight trash, going out of the house between their daily output and changing the litter pans every couple weeks. I appreciate hearing About the app you were making to reduce waste. And especially appreciate the waste pick up you do at the national park. Thank you very much.