Concluding my semester-long tirade on single-use plastics, I would like to take this time to perhaps ease your mind. The situation is dire, we are in danger and we must demand policymakers and corporations shift towards more sustainable practices. This would, in fact, be the most effective way to tackle our crisis. This also feels impossible in the face of the impenetrable flow of capital, the way our economy and society are structured towards short-term gains before long-term survival. It is so easy to despair in the face of this lack of control, I can’t fault anyone for it, I certainly find myself sinking into the mire with great frequency.
What can perhaps be good news, is the realization that while our individual choices may not have the power to save us on their own, we must change them all the same. In an ideal outcome, our world and habits will need to be different, so we might as well get used to some of that now. Now there are folks out there who live what they call “Zero Waste” lifestyles, to varying degrees of hypocrisy (some really are making it work and good for them!). The reality is that such lifestyles are largely inaccessible to most people. To live a truly Zero Waste life one needs to completely divest from society. This is by design: I’ll say it again, our society is not structured to make sustainability possible. So, the most important first step in living a more ecologically friendly life is to accept that you probably won’t do it perfectly.
Once you’ve accepted this, it’s important to reflect on how you currently live. Where are your biggest sources of waste right now? Do you drive a lot? Are you Vegan? Do you know how to cook? All of these will help in the next step to gauge what small changes you can make toward progress that won’t completely disrupt your routines. As is the case with most things, the best changes are the ones you’ll be able to maintain.
Here are a couple of ideas for small sustainable choices the average person can likely make:
- Consider riding the bus/ biking/ walking/ rollerblading etc. before driving. (Any opportunity you get to choose another method of transport is a chance to make a positive change)
- If you drink coffee, use a travel mug (put stickers on it, make it fun!).
- Carry a fork and a spoon with you
- No need to buy new bamboo ones, that just adds something new to the stream, simply designate a set from your home your travel set, or keep plasticware thrust upon you against your will and use that!
- Avoid meat unless it is locally raised or obtained through last-chance programs
- I recommend Flashfoods for this! Local Giants use it and it saves money too!
- Steer clear of new clothing.
- Go to Goodwill and find the best approximate for something. For specific items (think formalwear/ uniform) try to find a quirky loophole or borrow from a friend. In last-ditch situations purchase the highest quality version you can, something that will last, from retailers committed to sustainable and fair trade practices.
- MAKE YOUR OWN SALAD DRESSING!!
- This seems so small but when you think about the added emissions of transporting ingredients to a central bottling facility, then the disposal of said bottles which are not recyclable. It adds up. Make it in a mason jar. Impress a date with it. I’ve included base recipes at the bottom of this blog.
If you’re interested I suggest picking one of these to start. You will fail. I have been seen before in public with a paper cup in hand. It happens. Forgive yourself and do differently next time.
HOMEMADE RANCH DRESSING:
¼ cup of mayonnaise
¼ cup of sour cream (or Greek yogurt if you prefer)
¼ cup buttermilk
½ teaspoon dried dill
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon granulated garlic
½ teaspoon onion powder
Pinch of salt and a pinch of pepper
A wee squeeze of lemon juice.
Mix all these together, badabing badabang. Take out the dill and parsley and add blue cheese if you like that kinda thing or hot sauce to make a spicy dip.
HOMEMADE BALSAMIC VINAGRETTE:
¼ c olive oil
¼ c balsamic vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon of pepper
1 teaspoon granulated garlic (or a clove of crushed garlic you fancy freak)
A pinch of rosemary, oregano, Italian seasoning, basil, whatever you like.
Mix these all together. They will separate over time but just mix them again and you’re all set. Tweak the balance to suit your tastes. When you start to feel fancy get flavored balsamic vinegars, try adding different spices, go wild.
If there are other dressings or dips you like, look up how to make them, I bet it’s easier than you’d think.
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