Setting Sustainability Targets: Driving Positive Change for a Greener Future

Setting Sustainability Targets: Driving Positive Change for a Greener Future

Organizations across industries are realizing the need to embrace sustainability in an era when environmental issues are at the forefront of global conversation. Setting sustainability goals for organizations has evolved as a significant technique for driving good change and contributing to a greener future. Companies may connect their operations with environmentally responsible practices, decrease their ecological impact, and promote long-term sustainability by creating defined targets and milestones. In this article, we will discuss the significance of creating sustainability goals, as well as crucial factors and success stories of firms that are leading the way in sustainable practices.

The Need for Sustainability Targets

The Need for Sustainability TargetsAs the globe grapples with the repercussions of climate change, resource depletion, and other environmental concerns, there has never been a greater need to embrace sustainable practices. Setting sustainability objectives offers firms a clear plan for addressing their environmental effect and working toward a more sustainable future. Companies may monitor their progress and hold themselves responsible for their sustainability initiatives by identifying specific targets, such as lowering greenhouse gas emissions, preserving water resources, or eliminating waste output.

Benefits of Setting Sustainability Targets

Setting sustainability goals benefits companies, the environment, and society as a whole. For starters, it assists firms in reducing their environmental imprint and conserving vital resources. Companies may reduce their environmental effect and contribute to climate change mitigation by implementing energy-efficient processes, improving supply chains, and utilizing renewable energy sources. Second, sustainability goals encourage innovation and technical improvement. Organizations are pushed to explore new ideas, engage in research and development, and discover inventive methods to optimize processes and products as they attempt to fulfill their objectives. This not only helps the firm, but also encourages an innovative culture inside the industry. Setting sustainable goals also improves brand reputation and stakeholder participation.

Consumers, investors, and workers are increasingly drawn to organizations that exhibit a true commitment to sustainability. Organizations may improve their brand image, attract socially conscious customers, and develop stakeholder trust by defining and accomplishing relevant sustainability objectives.

Considerations for Setting Sustainability Targets

Considerations for Setting Sustainability TargetsOrganizations must carefully evaluate several elements when creating sustainability targets to guarantee the efficacy and relevance of their goals. To begin, targets should be consistent with the organization’s overarching vision, values, and long-term goals. Companies may guarantee that sustainability aims are not just token gestures but important components of their operations by incorporating sustainability into their core business strategy. Second, goals should be both ambitious and achievable. Setting difficult goals is important, but firms must also evaluate their available resources, technology capabilities, and industry benchmarks. Setting impossible goals can lead to dissatisfaction and stagnation, but setting attainable goals can bring drive and a sense of success.

Third, teamwork and involvement are critical success factors. Sustainability goals frequently need collective action and coordination across departments, stakeholders, and supply chains. Employee, supplier, consumer, and community engagement promotes a feeling of ownership, shared accountability, and collaborative effect.

Success Stories and Inspiring Examples

Numerous companies have successfully set and met sustainability goals, acting as role models for others. Companies like Patagonia, Unilever, and Interface have proved their commitment to sustainability by establishing lofty targets and making considerable strides toward minimizing their environmental effect. Patagonia, a well-known outdoor apparel company, aspires to be carbon neutral by 2025 and has taken many steps to minimize its carbon footprint, including switching to renewable energy sources and investing in regenerative agriculture.

Unilever, a major consumer goods corporation, has set an ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions from its products by 2039, and it has made significant progress by installing renewable energy projects and introducing sustainable packaging solutions. Interface, a global leader in modular flooring, has set a goal of becoming carbon-negative by 2040 and has pioneered sustainable production practices such as the use of recycled materials and the implementation of renewable energy systems.

 

What Is Sustainable Gardening and Why Is It Important?

What Is Sustainable Gardening and Why Is It Important?

Gardening is a very popular hobby for many people, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does gardening provide an opportunity to connect with nature, but it also allows individuals to grow their own food, beautify their surroundings, and improve the overall health of the planet. However, traditional gardening practices can often have negative impacts on the environment, such as excessive water use, soil degradation, and the use of harmful chemicals. Sustainable gardening aims to mitigate these impacts and create a more eco-friendly approach to growing plants. In this article, we’ll explore what sustainable gardening is, why it’s important, and how you can implement sustainable gardening practices in your own backyard.

What is Sustainable Gardening?

What is Sustainable Gardening?Sustainable gardening is a set of practices and principles that aim to reduce the environmental impact of traditional gardening practices. This includes using resources such as water and fertilizer more efficiently, reducing waste, and promoting biodiversity. Sustainable gardening is based on the principles of ecology, which recognizes that everything in the natural world is interconnected and that actions in one part of the ecosystem can have ripple effects throughout the whole system.

Why is Sustainable Gardening Important?

Sustainable gardening is important for a number of reasons. First and foremost, it helps to mitigate the negative impacts that traditional gardening practices can have on the environment. For example, using excessive amounts of water and fertilizer can lead to water pollution and soil degradation, which can have long-lasting effects on the health of the ecosystem. Additionally, sustainable gardening practices can help to promote biodiversity by creating habitats for beneficial insects and animals, such as bees and butterflies.

Sustainable gardening can also benefit human health by reducing exposure to harmful chemicals and pesticides. When pesticides and other chemicals are used in traditional gardening practices, they can seep into the soil and water supply, potentially harming both wildlife and human health. By using natural methods to control pests and promote plant growth, sustainable gardening practices can create a safer and healthier environment for everyone.

How to Implement Sustainable Gardening Practices

How to Implement Sustainable Gardening PracticesImplementing sustainable gardening practices in your own backyard is easier than you might think. Below you willl find some tips to help you get started:

Use native plants: Native plants are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, which means they will require less water and fertilizer than non-native plants. They also provide habitat for local wildlife, which can help to promote biodiversity.

Compost: Composting is an effective way of reducing waste and produce nutrient-rich soil for your plants. You can compost a variety of materials, including food scraps, yard waste, and even shredded newspaper.

Go for natural pest control methods: Instead of using dangeroud chemicals to control pests, try using natural methods such as companion planting, insect-repelling plants, and biological controls like ladybugs and praying mantises.

Conserve water: Water is a precious resource, so it’s critical to use it wisely in the garden. Consider using a rain barrel to collect rainwater for watering your plants, and use drought-tolerant plants that require less water.

Avoid synthetic fertilizers: Synthetic fertilizers can be harmful to the environment and can contribute to water pollution. Instead, use natural fertilizers like compost, worm castings, and bone meal.

By implementing these sustainable gardening practices, you can create a beautiful and eco-friendly garden that benefits both the environment and your own health and well-being.

Conclusion

Sustainable gardening is an important practice for all those who truly care about the environment and want to reduce its impact on the planet. By using natural methods to promote plant growth, reduce waste, and conserve resources, we can, together, create a more sustainable future for ourselves and future generations. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, there are many simple and effective ways to implement sustainable gardening practices in your own backyard. By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and sustainable outdoor space.

 

 

 

4 Everyday Activities That Pollute the Environment

4 Everyday Activities That Pollute the Environment

Unknowingly, you are doing certain things that are leaving their impact on our environment. Let’s find out more!

Throwing Chewing Gum on the Ground

Throwing Chewing Gum on the GroundGum sales date from the 1800s in the US and soon became widespread. Today, the global chewing gum market is valued at approximately US$ 27 billion. Recent statistics show that people of all ages are most likely to chew gum at least two or three times a week. In fact, studies have revealed that an average American can chew at least 1.8 pounds of gum yearly.

Despite the fact that chewing gum can have adverse side effects like headaches and jaw pain, it has become a common habit for a lot of people. People would chew gum as a means to reduce stress, quit smoking and reduce food cravings.

Whether chewing gum is helping you break a bad habit or curbing your bad breath, it is important to know that 80-90 % of chewing gum is not disposed of properly and it is a common form of litter that affect the environment.

If you live in big cities, you’ve probably seen hundreds of pieces of old chewing gum stuck to the pavement. The flavor of chewing gum might be sweet, but you’ll eventually have to throw it away. So, how do you dispose of it once when you are done?

Your answer: Throw it in a bin.

But, what really happens: You throw it on the ground.

Chewing gum is made of polymers –synthetic plasters that are not biodegradable. When a piece of gum is thrown on the sidewalk, it sits there until it is removed, which might never happen.

Of course, you can buy sustainable chewing gums which are made from biodegradable substances.

Using a Hair Straightener

Using a Hair StraightenerEveryone’s heard of an inferiority complex, but have you ever heard of a “hair complex?”

Today, it’s very common for people to compare their hairstyles to others and want to “fix” the hair they don’t like. Some women with frizzy or curly hair, for example, have a tendency to straighten their hair on a daily basis.

Straight hair is very popular and trendy because it can be shaped into different styles and looks. However, this hair-strengthening obsession is lethal as it contributed to an industry that generates toxic fume and maims and kills thousands of animals a year.

With today’s heightened awareness of global warming, it is surprising that many people are not aware of the high energy consumption of hair straighteners. These hair tools take up lots of energy and therefore add more carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.

Human Farts

Human FartsIf you like reading, you must have read that cow farts are bad for the environment. But, what about human farts?

Flatulence is a completely normal biological process that occurs with everyone regularly. While some may fart only a few times a day, others can pass wind about 5 to 15 times per day.

You see, human farts consist of methane and some other greenhouse gases, which are not good for the environment. However, if you look at the bigger picture, human farts are just a tiny component compared to fossil fuel emissions.

Watching Videos in HD

Watching Videos in HDI bed your pardon?

If you take a look at YouTube videos from 2008, for example, you’ll find the quality to be very low. Watching videos in high-definition (HD) or Ultra High Definition (UHD) is very common among movie buffs and gamers. However, according to some scientists, watching movies in HD or UHD might not be a good option for the environment.

Why?

In general, it is said that digital technology has contributed to an increase of 1.4 % in global emissions. According to a study led by scientists at the UK’s Royal Society, watching a video in HD on your phone can generate eight times the carbon emissions as watching the same video in standard quality.

So, would you be willing to stream in SD to save the environment?

 

 

 

 

thermal

Solar Tile: A Solution To Gain In Energy Savings And Aesthetics

This is the new trend in the solar industry, which is becoming more and more popular. Photovoltaic solar tiles take over from the classic photovoltaic panels and offer an additional alternative. The tile is composed of not one but two layers of silicon and electron that produce energy and provide the home with electricity. More aesthetic, these tiles seduce households looking for solutions to reduce their energy bills without compromising the exterior appearance of their building.

The use of renewable energy is becoming more and more widespread in the domestic environment. This system is an excellent alternative to the voltaic installation to save energy. Solar tiles can offer you many advantages. They can also bring a new look to your roof. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about solar tiles.

How solar roof tiles work and their characteristics

solar

 

The solar tile is part of a roofing installation in place of a conventional tile. It consists of photovoltaic cells that create electrical energy. Indeed, this tile is made of two layers of silicon and electrons. Once the light reaches the tile, the side exposed to the sun intercepts the photons of light. The exchange between the electrons and the silicon atoms produces energy.

The installation of photovoltaic tiles does not require any cutting or roofing. Cables connect each tile to the electrical distribution board. To optimize its operation, the installation of an inverter is essential. This allows transforming the energy captured by the tiles into electricity. You can also opt for a solar deflector or a home solar system.

This does not prevent you from using a roofer to do the work. Among other things, they are waterproof, less bulky, and more modular. However, the solar tile is very expensive; it is necessary to plan up to 2 000 $ per m². It is, therefore, necessary to apply for financial assistance such as Ma Prime Renov to reduce this cost.

In addition, several forms of solar tiles can meet your needs:

    • The classic solar tile: is composed of mini solar panels discrete but with a low yield
    • The large solar tile: offers a satisfactory yield thanks to its elongated shape
    • The slate with the integrated solar panel: is ideal for those who prefer to keep this material.

Insulation of the attic by the installation of solar tiles

1. Reduction of the bill

solar

Insulating from the outside with solar tiles can reduce your heating costs and lower your carbon footprint. Know that 30% of heat escapes the roof if your house is not well insulated. As a result, your bill can drop by 15-25%.

2. Stylish attic space

This process allows you to save space in the attic. This makes it easier to arrange the room and gives you several options for use. For example, you can consider transforming it into a master suite equipped with a bathroom and dressing room. It is also possible to add a reading corner or an office corner. The charm of the beams and the frame can also be preserved.

3. Roof makeover

solar

Solar panels are very apparent, which can affect the beauty of your roof. Opt for solar tiles that look like traditional roof tiles to keep their aesthetics and uniformity. This allows you to enjoy the same benefits as solar panels. In addition, in case solar panels are not allowed in your area, invisible models. If you want to buy solar tiles that are both durable and stylish, choose the Tesla brand.

You can choose from textured, smooth, Tuscan, and slate designs depending on the structure and architecture of your home. Among other things, it is recommended to replace your entire roof when renovating a roof to avoid contrasts. You can also alternate the installation with classic tiles or redo the whole roof with solar tiles. A specialist in solar panel installation can perform such work.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about solar tiles.

paint

Ecological Paint To Limit Pollution

When it comes to painting the exterior wall of the house, the choice of paint is more or less complicated. Unlike the interior walls, the facades require special attention since they are always exposed to the weather. Also, you must take into account the weather conditions of your region to choose the paint color to use.

Also, note that in the context of a construction or a renovation, the Local Urbanism Plan (PLU) defines the authorized colors for the façade. Therefore, you should check with the town hall, especially if your home is located in a protected area. In any case, we recommend you choose ecological paint, which is non-toxic and accessible to all budgets.

Why do we talk about organic paint?

paint

Natural paints are environmentally friendly and less toxic than natural paints. Unlike the latter, they are made with natural and biodegradable elements such as lime, casein, or silicate. That’s why they are generally used for interiors, especially in bedrooms and babies’ rooms. Indeed, although these types of paint have a low amount of volatile organic compounds, they do not give off bad odors that cause headaches. Be aware, however, that not all paints that are labeled “VOC-free” are necessarily environmentally friendly.

To qualify as organic, they must contain 95% natural ingredients. There are also natural bio-based paints that are 95% plant and animal-based. To find out, be sure to check the box where the components are listed. You can also rely on the advice of the professionals of the company you hired to do the painting or buy the paint only in stores specializing in the sale of ecological products.

How to choose your eco-friendly paint?

paint

There are different types of ecological paints. In fact, you can easily make paint from lime since you need to get lime and mix it with water. Although no chemical components are used in this type of paint, protect yourself with a mask anyway because lime is a more or less harmful product. In any case, lime-based paint is suitable for any surface and is very aesthetic. However, it is not washable with water.

Therefore, it is not really recommended for bathrooms and kitchens. Choose instead the silicate one, which can be used for both indoor and outdoor use. It is resistant to steam and washout and is easy to maintain. There is also clay paint which is suitable for all types of support and which comes in a wide choice of colors.

However, it is preferable not to use sharp objects or too hard when washing your walls. Silicate paints are particularly sensitive to scratches. However, it is essential to underline that ecological paints do not produce a rendering as satisfactory as that of traditional paints. They are difficult to apply, and the drying time is very long because of the lack of solvent in their composition. In addition to this, they do not offer a wide choice of tints and colors as conventional paints.

Dress for the job

paint

Painting is messy, so we don’t recommend putting on your Sunday best to do this specific job. Put on a long-sleeved shirt, old work pants, a pair of old tennis shoes, and a cap to protect yourself from the paint that will eventually drip or fall on you.

After all, you will always get paint while painting; no matter how careful you are when painting and handling the paint, it’s the nature of the job. By covering yourself properly, you won’t have to rub the paint off your skin at the end of the day. Also, line your floor with plastic or old newspapers to protect your floors from paint drips.

Sound off in the comments section below and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about painting.

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6 WAYS TO LIVE MORE SUSTAINABLY

Every day, we make decisions that impact the environment, climate, and other animals. We can do a lot to “choose wild” and lessen our environmental imprint to make more room for wild animals and plants, from what we eat to how many children we have.

Think Before Shopping

“Reduce, Reuse, Recycle” may sound like a cliche, but it’s just as relevant today as it was originally coined. Everything we buy has an environmental footprint, from the materials needed to make it to the pollution generated during manufacture to the packaging in landfills. So, before you go out and buy something, consider whether you truly need it. Look for gently used items rather than new ones, and look for minimum packaging and delivery.

Make Sure That Your Investments Have Environmental Benefits

Electric Car, Car, Electric, Vehicle

Not everyone has the financial means to exchange their old gas-guzzling junk for the most recent environmentally friendly hybrid vehicle. That isn’t necessarily a bad thing; new car production requires a lot of resources. If you’re in the market for a new vehicle, choose a fuel-efficient model to save thousands of dollars on gas and lower your carbon footprint. When shopping for a new refrigerator, washer, or dryer, seek the Energy Star badge to identify the most energy-efficient models. Do you require a new water heater? Consider switching to solar power.

Do Not Use Plastic

Plastic is here to stay. Currently, billions of pounds of it may be found in whirling convergences that cover over 40% of its oceans. Thousands of seabirds, sea turtles, seals, and other marine creatures are killed after consuming or becoming entangled in plastic. In just a few easy actions, you can start reducing your plastic waste: When shopping, use reusable bags, avoid single-use water bottles, bags, and straws, and avoid anything made of or packaged in plastic as much as possible (e.g., select unwrapped produce at the grocery store, shop local, cut down on online shopping).

Boycott unsustainable products

In the United States, it is unlawful to buy, sell, import, or exchange anything manufactured from endangered species, but even if a plant or animal hasn’t been designated yet, it can still be damaged for profit. Furthermore, certain items imperil endangered species by posing a hazard to their environment, ranging from the destruction of old-growth forests to the depletion of water that riparian animals require to exist. To prevent contributing to the extinction of animals, purchase ethically and search for goods made of sustainable materials such as bamboo.

Water 

Water, Drop, Liquid, Splash, Wet, Clean

Leave the bottled water at home. Even though tap water is essentially free and many city water have won quality and taste tests versus name-brand water, bottled water firms strive to discredit it. Furthermore, water extraction and the creation of all those plastic bottles are damaging to people and animals. Water conservation is also vital, especially as our nation’s population grows and we confront severe droughts. Shorter showers, fixing leaky toilets, and low-flow and low-water appliance options are all ways to save water. Consider xeriscaping your yard, which is a landscaping approach that employs native, drought-tolerant plants that require less water and upkeep over time while still providing habitat and food.

Drive less Or Drive Green 

Changing your driving habits can help you cut your carbon impact significantly. Whenever feasible, walk, cycle, carpool, or take public transit. Combine errands to save time and money. Participate in or organize car-free days in your neighborhood. Regular tune-ups and tire inflations are vital to maintaining your automobile in good repair. Tune-ups may improve your fuel economy by 4% to 40%, and if every American kept his or her tires properly inflated, gas consumption would drop by 2% countrywide.

It is important to live more sustainably with global warming and climate change; you do not want to contribute any further to the planet’s degradation. In the comments, let us know how you plan to live more sustainably…

bitcoin

5 Online Tools To Live Sustainability

With issues such as global warming and pollution becoming more of a danger with each passing day, sustainability is becoming increasingly important. It might be difficult to take time out of a busy schedule to ensure that your lifestyle is sustainable in the digital age.

However, if we truly want to keep to behaviors that will enhance the state of the world, we must include the concept of sustainability into our daily lives as well. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of 5 applications and online tools to assist you transition to a digitally sustainable existence.

Forest

“I use my phone way too much,” we’ve all thought at some point. In the United States, the average person checks his phone at least 110 times every day. Forest may be the app for you if you’re attempting to cut down on your screen time.

Forest can not only assist you in overcoming cell phone addiction, but it has also begun a tree-planting project. Once engaged, the software locks all other apps on your phone, preventing you from slacking off and forcing you to focus on the work at hand. As you work, a virtual tree grows, and when you’re done, it rewards you with in-app cash. These in-app coins allow you to plant real trees so that you can aid the environment while also being productive.

Enel X

Enel X is a leading energy transformation company that assists in the creation of a sustainable environment on both a personal and business level. Enel X has some wonderful tools for you, whether you’re just attempting to make your home more environmentally friendly or improving your company’s decarbonization strategy.

Enel X is a global company that works with responsible organizations and homes to help them accomplish their sustainability goals. It is offered in 20 countries. They’ve also devised a specific demand management program for manufacturing units that compensates them for implementing sustainable energy policies.

Loss Of the Night

Light pollution is soon proving to be a far worse issue than scientists could have predicted. Excessive outdoor lighting has the ability to convert night into day, and while this is convenient for the typical human, it upsets wildlife’s natural balance and raises carbon dioxide levels. Furthermore, light pollution is a significant impediment to astronomical research.

We can become citizen scientists in Loss Of The Night by reporting the brightness of the places around us. The app asks users to indicate if you can see certain stars in the sky to measure skyglow, and your replies are used to build a database for academics working to reduce light pollution. If you’re a stargazer who also wants to help the environment, this software will allow you to put your passion to good use.

Coach Recycle

In many countries, recycling has become an important aspect of trash management, yet we often overlook the fact that we are doing it right. Because most people have no understanding what happens inside a recycling plant, it’s simple to make mistakes.

Recycle Coach seeks to assist individuals in properly recycling their waste, and their advice is targeted to your home and locality. The app gathers information on how your local recycling facility operates and assists you in learning new and effective recycling techniques so that you can do your part successfully.

Good Guide

In this day and age, many products claim to be environmentally friendly, but few of them can back up their claims. It can be tough to make ecologically responsible decisions, but Good Guide can assist you.

Good Guide is an app that lets you look up companies and goods for almost everything you can think of, and it tells you about their health, environmental, and social impact. It contains approximately 60,000 products in its database, including games, consumables, cosmetic, electronics, and much more. The app also assists you in finding better alternatives to these things and making purchases that are better for you and the environment.

Conclusion

It takes time to develop excellent habits, but regular attempts might help you reach to the point where they feel natural to you. We’ve arrived at a point in history where sustainability must become an integral part of everyone’s life. You may jumpstart your sustainability journey and start helping the environment right now by adopting these basic yet effective digital tools.

From Another Christian Perspective: Why Should We Care For the Environment?

From Another Christian Perspective: Why Should We Care For the Environment?

“Sustainability” is the term that has become very, very popular in the media, in academic circles and among peers (even if most still can’t grasp the real meaning of “sustainability”).

A high-quality product is no longer enough to win a consumer’s favor. People want more than just quality; they are looking for products and brands that align with environmental values. Today, if a product is not labeled as “organic” or “sustainably-grow”, it will stay on the shelf in the grocery aisle. The same goes for suppliers. In the face of climate change and global warming, companies, including the fashion industry, which is the greatest culprit when it comes to pollution, are convinced that the more sustainable they become, the more they strive and erode competitiveness.

There’s no denying it; sustainability has surpassed the trend of Keto diets, Denim jeans and TikTok videos.

However, while the whole world is pitched in this battle, what about Christians?

As a firm believer and follower of Christ, I’ve often wondered if I should get involved in this quest for sustainability. Should I start buying designer brands because of the message “Without sacrifice” that they tell to the world? Or, should I start making expensive sustainable products my personal priority?

When I think of Romans 12: 2 (Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind), James 4:4 (don’t you know that friendship with the world means enmity against God?) or 1 John 2:15 (Do not love this world nor the things it offers you, for when you love the world, you do not have the love of the Father in you), my answer to the above questions becomes a big no. But, the following arguments might prove the opposite.

We Were Tasked to Steward the Earth’s Resources

We Were Tasked to Steward the Earth’s Resources

“Then God said, “Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the wild animals of the earth, and over every creeping thing that creeps upon the earth.”

– From Genesis 1:26

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to till it and keep it.”

– From Genesis 2:15

When God created water, animals, plants and the land, He created them for us to use. Now, yes, we are to use these various resources, but we are also meant to use them in a way that will preserve and sustain these valuable resources.

The environment was not created by man, but by our Heavenly Father and as His children, we are not meant to work against but for His creation.

God’s Detailed Sustainable Plan in the Book of Numbers

God’s Detailed Sustainable Plan in the Book of NumbersI came across this fascinating perspective as I was reading a book.

If you go back and read Numbers 35, you’ll find all the details of the amount of pasture land each town back then was supposed to have.

This was God’s command to His people:

“You shall measure, outside the town, for the east side two thousand cubits, for the south side two thousand cubits, for the west side two thousand cubits, and for the north side two thousand cubits, with the town in the middle; this shall belong to them as pasture land for their towns.”

– From Numbers 35: 5

When modern experts like Milgrom analyzed this geographical layout, they found that the town planning model could establish a social-economic structure that could lead to rising productivity while creating conditions for sustainable economic growth.

But, let’s recall that this sophisticated idea was not from a man but from God. Now, it’s up to believers to draw their conclusion from this Biblical scripture.

 

 

 

parents

Sustainability As A Parent

If you’re reading this, you probably live a life that prioritizes intentionality and sustainability. Perhaps you’ve just received the wonderful news that you will be a parent. While becoming a parent is a fantastic experience and one of life’s most joyous milestones, it is not without stress and worry. And just as there are numerous methods to teach little children about self-sufficiency, there are also numerous ways to be a sustainable parent to a newborn. You may think you’ve got it all figured out, but luck is on your side if you’re prepared.

 

So, it’s a good start if this checklist verifies what you previously planned to do as a first-time parent or uncovers a few things you hadn’t considered.

 

Pregnancy, Couple, Love, Pregnant, Woman

Home Birth

While every new parent must accept that even the best-laid intentions do not always come to fruition, they can still be hoped for and prepared for. With that in mind, if you’d like to give birth at home rather than in a hospital, it’s worth considering. If you’ve ever visited a hospital, you’re well aware of the numerous gloves, cups, paper towels, and other thrown items. Sure, they’re essential in a hospital setting, but you may not believe a hospital is necessary for your delivery. Many individuals choose to have their babies at home for reasons other than sustainability, although it is an incentive for many.

 

Cloth Diapering

While you’re overjoyed, you’ll notice that you’re also fatigued practically immediately after bringing your bundle of joy home. It takes a lot of time and works to raise a child, especially first. You’re up and down and all overdue to unpredictable sleep cycles and breastfeeding. While the convenience of store-bought diapers is appealing, their environmental effect is significant. According to research, cloth diapers are better for the environment but better for your newborn’s fragile skin.

People, Man, Adult, Hands, Child

 

The Textiles You Use

You should consider this with your baby’s clothing in the same way we should think about it with our clothes because of its environmental and humanitarian implications. You want to utilize as many natural materials as possible, from their swaddle blankets and crib sheets to the baby jumpsuit they wear on their first nature walk. The ideal fabrics for these things are 100% cotton and linen. They’re not only gentler on the baby’s sensitive skin, but they’re also more breathable. Because babies’ skin is delicate, they are susceptible to heat rash, pimples, eczema, and other skin conditions; therefore, choosing sustainable materials is good for the environment and health.

 

Speaking Of Skin

Because their sensitive bodies are prone to various skin problems, it’s a good idea to consider what you’ll be using on them for bathing, moisturizing, and treating any issues that may arise. While some parents choose to manufacture their baby creams or shampoos, there are numerous natural goods on sale that are both environmentally friendly and safe for your child. During your pregnancy, spend some time researching companies and the substances they utilize. It’s critical to choose products that reflect your beliefs and use ingredients you can trust. If you have friends with kids who share your beliefs about living sustainably, ask them for advice.

 

Utilize Your Village

It is said that it takes a community to raise a child, which is surely true! However, use your village to recycle stuff that they may no longer need for your infant. You don’t have to go out and buy a brand-new crib, changing pad, or whatever else you think you’ll need when your friends or family members may have them sitting in their attic collecting dust. While buying a new car seat and stroller is a smart idea for safety, reusing other products saves you money and helps the environment!

 

Congratulations! Although becoming a new parent can be frightening at first, it is the most gratifying job you will ever have. Investing in your children and future generations is as vital as investing in the planet you’ll leave them on. So, apply the suggestions above to make this world a better environment for your little one. Let us know in the comments how are you willing to cope living efficiently while being a parent…

From a Christian Perspective: Why Should We Care For the Environment?

From a Christian Perspective: Why Should We Care For the Environment?

During the 18th-19th century in Europe, people realized that it would take decades or even centuries for a forest to grow out to become workable timber. That’s when the principle of sustainability was first developed.

If there was growing concern that the COVID-19 pandemic would somehow cause people around the globe to lose interest and sight of the urgency of environmental problems like global warming and air pollution, that worry can be put to rest. Recent surveys have found that in the wake of the pandemic, sustainability is still the “green” buzzword and people are still, if not more, concerned about the environment.

The concern for environmental challenges and the constant need to change behaviors to promote sustainability stems from your innate human nature that says caring for the environment is the right thing to do.

I know that recycling or home gardening is not sinful, but as a firm believer, I was wondering about what the Bible has to say about the environment. Should we Christians care for the environment?

Well, based on what I’ve learned, Biblical scriptures do not explicitly say anything about caring for the environment – especially, if you consider the fact that they were written like some thousands of years ago. But, after thorough reading and with the Holy Spirit’s revelation, I’ve come to learn a few things.

Let me share them with you!

God’s Creation

God’s Creation

In Genesis 1: 26-28,

God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”

So God created mankind in his own image,in the image of God he created them;male and female, he created them. God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.””

From Job 12:7-10:

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you; the birds of the air, and they will tell you; ask the plants of the earth, and they will teach you; and the fish of the sea will declare to you. Who among all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every living thing and the breath of every human being.”

 

From Psalm 95:3-7:

“For the Lord is a great God,

and a great King above all gods.

In his hand are the depths of the earth;

the heights of the mountains are his also.

The sea is his, for he made it,

and the dry land, which his hands have formed.

O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord, our Maker!

For he is our God, and we are the people of his pasture, and the sheep of his hand.”

 

From a Christian Perspective: Why Should We Care For the Environment?

As we have seen in these above Bible verses, God created us in His image and gave us the power and authority to “have dominion over the earth.”

It is important to understand that “dominion” here is not a license to abuse of God’s creation or the authority He gave us on earth. The word “dominion” does not give us the permission to run roughshod over the earth and its resources.

As we are creatures and mirrors of God, we have to protect and take care of God’s creation. He created the earth and the environment for us to live in. And, the water, plants and animals were all created by Him for us to use. So, logically, it means we are not meant to destroy but rather preserve the environment and its resources.