Living Lightly at Home

Sometimes environmental problems seem overwhelming, and you might think, ‘how can I ever make a difference?’ Be encouraged! Psalm 24:1 says, ‘the Earth is the Lord’s and everything in it!’ This is God’s world and He is working to restore His creation. We are called to take care of that creation in its amazing entirety. Small changes at home DO make a difference to the environment, are better for your health and can save money. But change is not always easy and can be frustrating when you feel like you are the only one doing anything. The whole family or household will need to commit to living lightly at home. Make things fun. Take small steps towards change. And remember, living lightly is not about deprivation, but joyful simplicity.

Some suggestions for individuals and families…

Consider sharing your home with another individual or family: higher density housing reduces your ecological footprint.
Reduce waste wherever possible – recycle, compost food waste, avoid bringing anything disposable into your home.
Clean your home of chemicals! Buy environmentally friendly cleaning and body care products, that are biodegradable, safe for the water and better for your health.
Eat well! Buy local and organic food products. Choose food that is in season. Buy whole foods that have less processing and packaging. In lieu of watching TV spend the time cooking meals from scratch. Learn where your food comes from. Eat more vegetarian meals, and when you do eat meat consider buying free-range chicken and ‘grass-finished’ beef.
Green your yard! Grow some food or herbs. Avoid using chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Reduce the area of high-maintenance lawn in your yard – replace it with native species of trees, shrubs or grasses, which will require less watering. Choose species that will attract birds and butterflies.
Look around your home and think about how to slow the energy flow. Clothes can be hung to dry, lights can be turned off, appliances can be unplugged when not in use. Always choose high-efficiency appliances when buying new.
Renovate only when necessary and not just for cosmetic reasons. When renovating, consider finding recycled materials. Paint fumes, fiberglass insulation and carpet glue can be hazardous to your health. Environmentally friendly alternatives are available for all of these and more.
Be informed! Subscribe to on-line newsletters or organization e-news that can send regular information on local, national and international environmental concerns. Learn about how your lifestyle choices affect people in other parts of the world and commit to making choices that are better for the world community. Let justice be a factor in all purchasing decisions.
Live locally. Choose vacation destinations close to home. Drive as little as possible and when it’s time to replace an aging car, buy a fuel efficient vehicle.
Maximize household efficiency: dust light bulbs, clean fridge and freezer condenser coils, remove dryer lint, fix cracks in walls and door frames, close the fridge door!
Use ‘stuff’ well. Donate unwanted stuff to thrift stores. Have a garage sale. Shop at thrift stores. Make a policy when you buy that anything new must last 5-10 years.
Involve the kids - give each child a special responsibility or chore so they can take action on a regular basis. Let them inspire you – learn to see the awesomeness of creation through their eyes.

Sources

www.blessedearth.org
www.arocha.org.uk/livinglightly
Green Bible
Earth Trek (MCC publication by Joanne Moyer)