Modern conveniences are growing as almost every household has air conditioners, computers, multiple cellular phones, PlayStations, refrigerators, televisions, and many other cool gadgets. And how many of our modern conveniences are made of plastic? In fact, if you look around you might be surprised to find you’re surrounded by it! And what about cars, can you look outside without seeing at least one? What do all of these things have in common? And can we create a sustainable urban lifestyle?Sustainable Urban Development
The World Commission on Environment and Development has defined an environmentally sustainable development as one wherein the needs of the people are met, without putting in peril the needs of future generations. This idea may be noble but, looking at the environmental impact of the current lifestyle of most people, it’s not our reality.
In the city, most people want convenience, so they buy cars and in many cases are the only occupant in them. The “single passenger” car emissions contribute greatly to the overall global pollution. The simple act of carpooling with one other person can help you cut your transportation costs. Also, on the days you are the passenger, you arrive less stressed which can improve your overall health and well being.
Regrettably, the convenience of plastics has also become a way of life. The manufacturing of plastics requires petroleum, which is a nonrenewable energy source. Ever wonder why fuel prices keep soaring? The increasing demand for petroleum to supply car fuel is one of the reasons. The demand on petroleum is also due to the insatiable demand for plastics. In 2007, the American Chemistry Council (ACC) stated that 116 billion pounds of plastics were produced. Just try to imagine the amount of fuel used to produce all that plastic. Unfortunately, only 22% of that was recycled, but it’s a good start.
A litany of other things is happening in society, which hastens the depletion of resources. At present, sustainable development is being advocated, but only by the minority. Every person’s actions can lessen the harsh environmental impact of everyday living.
More Sustainable Solutions
Go green. This is a great way to achieve sustainability and anyone can do it. Choose foods that are produced locally, better yet go for local organic food. Only buy items that have little or no packaging. How about saying “neither” when the checkout clerk asks “paper or plastic”? You can if you bring your own bag. Walk to your local store. Or, you can ride you bike!
Why would want to pay more for an ENERGY STAR appliance? Well, you actually will pay less for one. These appliances consume significantly less energy. By the time you replace the unit, it will have more than paid for the additional upfront cost. As an added bonus, they minimize the repercussions to the environment.
Have you ever thought of how many chemicals we put on and in our bodies? Instead of buying synthetic shampoos, deodorants, detergents and household cleaners, go natural. Just try a few products that have natural ingredients. There are now more options and they’ve gotten much better over the last few years.
Don’t let “convenience” stop you. Try out just a few ways that you can help the environment. Be a part of building a better and greener sustainable planet for future generations.
