Earth Day thoughts
Wednesday, April 22nd, 2009 by MadeleineI thought that this was an interesting video, pointing out that we often treat the Earth the same way that our culture objectifies and disrespects women.
It was with interest that I learned of Grist.org‘s “Screw Earth Day!” campaign, as I agree (at least in principle) with the idea that our collective responsibility is a 24/7/365 commitment, not just a day. Same goes for Earth Hour, which, although impressive with respect to its results, in my mind can engender the idea that it’s enough to do it just for an hour, rather than making a permanent practice of reducing our energy consumption (SED!’s premise.) The neo-eco movement can feel at times like a form of cultural greenwashing, what with all the new dubiously “green” products and marketing campaigns that seem to be cropping up everywhere one turns these days.
But then I take a second look – where does my cynicism come from, is it useful, and how does it square with my belief in small efforts and gestures having a potentially enormous impact? Isn’t it better than doing nothing, or at least worth trying, considering what’s at stake? Maybe if I stopped debating whether or not it’s a perfect solution or not and just got on board then we’d all be the better for it? Seems a timely question, given the current political debate here in B.C. over carbon tax. Further to the “not arguing about perfect solutions and just getting on with it as we are able at the moment” observation, as a parent I appreciate the critical value of educating our children and being role models to them (Suzanne is doing this as I write, and I feel certain we will be hearing about it here!) Events like Earth Day and Earth Hour are great ways to do this, particularly in participation with our communities.
For me, in the end it all comes back to personal responsibility. Am I an eco-perfectionist? Not by a long shot. But I also believe that we can all try harder. On that note, a little shout-out to the Lunapads staff, all of whom are great examples of various green practices: as cycling activists and commuters, vegetarian and veganism advocates, conscious consumers and DIY crafters. Thanks ladies – you’re making a difference in so many important ways.
As a final antidote to my skepticism, I’d like to highlight some of my favorite green organizations and reading lists. The Environmental Working Group is a vast repository of information about everything from safe cosmetics to pesticide use in commercial produce, and has an excellent newsletter. The Vancouver Public Library has compiled an extensive list of books about sustainability, and our pal Annemarie Templeman-Kluit (aka Yoyomama - Vancouver’s source for everything anyone with kids needs to know about in this town) has posted some of her family’s fave green reads in her new blog here. Our friends and colleagues over at SPUD and NatureBag have teamed up with Lavish and Lime to offer an incredible eco-products giveaway contest – find out more here. Last but not least, Mindful Mama has just launched a great new natural parenting website in honor of Earth Day – way to go, everyone!
I hope that you all find a meaningful way to celebrate Earth Day – today and every day.
