At SDTN, we applaud efforts to live sustainably, no matter how slight those efforts might be. Recently, we heard the story of No Impact Man - and it's definitely one worth taking a lesson from. Most of us can make at least a few small changes and greatly reduce our carbon footprints as a result - here's how one inspirational person did it.
Lessons from No Impact Man
No Impact Man was first introduced via a documentary film directed by Justin Schein and Laura Gabbert. The film premiered in September of 2009, and follows the lives of Colin Beavan and his family during a year-long experiment they launched. Their goal was to have zero impact on the environment; so, they abandoned their high-consumption Manhattan lifestyle in favor of sustainability.
During their year-long foray into zero impact living, this family decided to travel only by foot or by bike, and to produce no trash. They bought nothing but locally grown food, and they even unplugged from the electrical grid. At first, it was hard. After a while, the Beavans discovered that they felt better physically, and they discovered that they were saving lots of money. In addition, they knew that they were helping the environment - and that made them feel good too.
Now, No Impact projects lasting just a week are taking place at universities and colleges all over the world. The No Impact Project also encourages people to try a no impact lifestyle for just a week, to see what it's like. Dubbed a "One Week Carbon Cleanse," the No Impact Experiment isn't about letting go of creature comforts; instead, it's a way for you to test whether some of the conveniences we so often take for granted are truly making us happier, or if they are simply eating our money and time. This experiment is so popular, there's even an iPhone app for it!
People have taken many lessons away from this experiment. Here are some things participants have learned:
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You don't have to give up your car or stop riding public transportation to make a smaller impact. Instead, think about ways you can reduce your dependency on carbon-based modes of transport. Make fewer trips to conduct errands, try to work from home one or two days per week, invest in a bicycle and ride it when you can, or share rides with friends and co-workers. You'll save money on gas and get healthier in the process.
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If your community doesn't have a robust recycling program, avoid buying anything plastic. Use jars instead, and re-use those - they're great for everything from pencil holders to candle containers.
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You don't have to quit your job or go back to the land to make a difference. Most of us have to use electricity to a certain extent. Power down when you can, make smart entertainment choices, and don't forget to play outside. Reducing electricity consumption makes a difference - to the environment, and to your budget's bottom line.
These are just a few tips that will help you make less of an impact on the environment and help the ocean as a result. Keep in mind that most of the electricity currently generated on our planet comes from unsustainable sources that contribute to wastewater runoff that eventually makes its way to the sea. The less you use, the smaller your footprint. How can you reduce your impact?