Often, January is filled with resolutions you don't intend to keep. But what if I told you there were resolutions you could make now that would forever change the planet? Well, if nothing else this new year, I challenge you to keep these five sustainable resolutions. Let this be the year you dedicate to helping the earth in ways that make a big impact.
Wouldn’t it be nice to have fresh fruits, veggies, and herbs available right in your yard? If you embrace edible landscaping, you can enjoy this experience practically year-round and save money to boot. Veteran Edible Farmer Rosalind Creasy shares that while these types of gardens do require an initial investment of time and money, they offer significant savings on produce costs—for example, in 2008, the value of the vegetables she grew in a 100-square-foot garden totaled more than $675.
Ron Finley is an urban gardening rebel and role model in Southern Los Angeles, where he grew up. As well as being a passionate practitioner and promoter of community gardening, he is a father of three boys who offers a fresh, open-minded take on how men and all people can relate to the earth.
Want to make an impact on the earth but don't know how? It might be easier than you think. See, back when I first started learning about the environmental stress our world is under, I felt overwhelmed. I wanted to do everything I could to help the environment, but didn't know where to start. After all, there are so many problems to address: Pollution, harmful chemicals, endangered species, and pesticides are just a few. That said, there are ways you can help the earth without losing your marbles. Here are five easy ways to start living a more natural, eco-friendly lifestyle.
Running an organic, sustainable garden is not easy to do solo, especially when you have a larger garden with plenty enough to tend to. Having support and assistance from others within your community can really lend a helping hand, and there are often people within communities who could truly benefit from gardens. For those looking for ideas on how to gain gardening support within your community, check out these 10 ideas for connecting your garden with your community.
1. Give and Share
The first time I saw a seed bomb it was in a Facebook video. Literally, I’ve been obsessed ever since. They are just the cutest things, so easy to make, and the best way to safely refurbish vacant lots. You can make a bunch of them and toss them in areas that really need more plants without having to worry about someone seeing. Since they decompose on their own, nature will take care of the rest. Unfortunately, you never know what is or isn't private property, so seed bombs are the ultimate discreet way of planting something (without spending much money or leaving any evidence).