Happy Earth Day! It is celebrated on April 22 as that day in 1970 is often considered as the birth of the environmental movement.
Over the years, Earth Day has become the largest participatory environmental movement on the planet. Today more than a billion people globally mark this day of action to become more aware of our behaviour and create change in our own lives and communities.
One thing we can be proud of in Victoria is our heritage and leadership on environmental awareness every day. We have always been ahead of the curve.
Shopping
I was so excited to learn about Zero Waste Emporium, the Island’s first zero-waste grocery store. New to the concept, I knew it would involve lifestyle changes but they are ones I can feel really good about. Zero Waste Emporium offers tips on zero waste shopping experience.
Cleaning
I know I hate doing it but using eco-friendly products somehow makes it feel easier. I was happy to learn that Victoria has places to help. The Soap Exchange, has 100 per cent Canadian-made biodegradable products, sold in refillable packaging (or bring in your own.)
Laundry
B.C.-based Tru Earth Eco-Strips laundry detergent eliminates plastic containers. It is ultra-concentrated into small, liquidless strips you throw into your load. They are hypoallergenic and paraben-free as well. I love them. They come in a fresh scent or without fragrance.
Clothing
If your goal is to own fewer, better-made pieces that last for life, Victoria-based Ecologyst wants to help. They manufacture sustainable apparel made with fewer and all-natural materials.
They use fabrics like ZQ Merino Wool, an all-natural moisture-wicking fabric and Donegal wool. At the end of their life cycle, the wool biodegrades in as little as three months. Plus, their production facility is based in Victoria, so you are helping reduce your carbon footprint as well. Ecologyst also has a lifetime repair program so it’s a win-win for you and the environment!
Eating Out
Food containers from takeout are a huge problem but locally, the Bread & Butter Collective is a great way to lower your footprint. It is easy to use. You purchase an eight-dollar reusable container and then next time you go to a participating restaurant you take it back and get a new one with your meal. Bread & Butter Collective has all the details.
One day at a time, one action at a time. Happy Earth Day!