DECEMBER: Month 12 OF 12 SUSTAIN ~ REFLECT ~ STAY INFORMED

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As we are bombarded by holiday deals and specials, the pressure to BUY stuff becomes exponential! But why get into more debt when it is especially detrimental to the planet? This month is all about sustainable gift giving, and giving back to our amazing planet. We will also reflect on our 12-month initiative and the progress we've made together.

This month we provide tips on how to give sustainable gifts this holiday, reflect on our progress giving back to our planet as well as what may come next? Let's remember that OUR PLANET IS THE GREATEST GIFT!

As our 12-month period comes to an end it's only the beginning. We need to keep this going and growing. Let us know what was helpful, what wasn't, and what YOU plan to do over the next 12-months? We still have a lot of work to do - how can we support our community on the path to a sustainable future?

Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything.

~ George Bernard Shaw

::: SUSTAINABLE GIFTING :::

Less than ONE PERCENT (!) of what you buy will actually be in use 6 months from now*

Ask yourself what gifting really means to you?

How can you gift something to the planet?

What you can gift to yourself to truly be happier?

  • STUFF doesn't make you better, smarter, or happier in the long-term, try not asking for anything.

  • Give gift experiences - memories that last a lifetime!

  • Buy gifts made from local artisans vs. ordering something cheap online, lower the carbon footprint + support your community

  • Go through your home and gather all the high quality things you never use and trade with friends for a more sustainable holiday!

  • No new STUFF means no spending beyond your means.

  • Pull out the bows and ornaments from last year.

  • Remember those old holiday cards - cut the covers off and use them for present labels.

  • Compost or chip your tree as well as your natural wreaths and decor.


"We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our Children"

::: REFLECT :::

AFTER A YEAR OF CLIMATE AWARENESS

"I stopped buying zip-lock bags, and started savings glass jars to reuse." Let us know what little changes you made?

Our New Motto:

RETHINK AND THEN

Refuse, Reduce, Replace,

Recover, Repair, Reuse and only after all those,

Recycle

1. Eat meatless for one or more days a week. The livestock sector generates as much emissions as cars and trucks combined!

2. Leave your own utensils and napkins in your bag or car. They'll be there when you eat on the run!

3. Buy products that have less packaging or better yet buy in bulk.

4. Reuse potters from last year or ask around if folks have some. Or give these back at the end of the season - Walkers and Duttons always take them back!

5. Make your own household products - recipes at WELLNESS MAMA.

6. Older toilets use a lot of water. You can reduce your usage by sinking a half gallon jug of water in the toilet tank.

7. Hosting a party - use disposable biodegradable serveware. Plastics are a fossil-fuel based material, if you do use plastic, wash and reuse!

8. When possible, eat the local food! Not only does it support the local economy, but your food will not have traveled too far to your plate.

9. Short or long-trip, bring your own reusable water bottle!

10. Re-use your pasta cooking liquid - drain into a large pot. Once cool, use it to water your plants or save for flushing when the power is out.

11. Decorate with nature. Forget the petroleum-based plastic decorations - adorn your home with natural and homemade festive decor!

:: STAY INFORMED::

Yale Climate Connections

a summary of 24 climate reports from 2019

350.ORG

Vermont Chapter https://350vermont.org/

An international movement of ordinary people working to end the age of fossil fuels and build a world of community-led renewable energy for all.

See their events here https://350vermont.org/calendar/

NOVEMBER: Month 11 OF 12 BE THANKFUL ~ CONSERVE ~ SHOW SUPPORT

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Even if we don't have a lot - we have a lot to be thankful for! This month is all about giving thanks, and showing gratitude for our amazing planet. Every effort, no matter how small, goes a long way - it's time to spread the word! Our planet is in need of our attention, our gratitude, and our love. Let's do our best to minimize our impact on the environment this holiday season.

This month we provide tips on how to have a resourceful holiday and give back to our planet as well as some climate updates. Let's be thankful that our planet is OUR HOME!

For those of you new to the scene, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

::: BE THANKFUL :::

Earth provides us with all our needs. Consider these simple ways to give thanks to our Earth and the environment.

  • Try to minimize waste in your meal preparation.

  • Try not to fill your plate beyond what you can eat.

  • Consider helping others with their Thanksgiving feast. You could volunteer, invite others who might be alone for the holiday, or consider taking some meals to others.

  • Send leftovers home with others to share or donate them to a shelter or pantry.

  • Give thanks to children and all youth; they are our future!

"We do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our Children"

::: CONSERVE :::

GO GREEN FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Americans create 25% MORE waste during the holidays!

1. Use the good dishes and cloth napkins. If reusable won't work, use disposable made from 100 percent post-consumer waste recycled paper, sugarcane or corn—they are compostable!

2. Decorate with nature. Forget the petroleum-based plastic and synthetic decorations - adorn your table with natural and homemade festive decor.

3. Use reusable, or borrow, rather than buy. Use reusable leftover containers and cookware or borrow extra dishes, bakeware. Going to someone else's house, bring your own reusable container!

4. Take a look at your energy use. If you have several dishes that need to be in the oven at the same temperature, put them in at the same time!

5. Stay close to home - or carpool! This will greatly reduce your carbon footprint.

6. Prepare less food. Choose a smaller bird and skip some of the less-popular dishes to reduce food waste.

7. Use smaller plates for less food waste. A smaller plate means your guests will choose less in the first place. Maybe leaving more room for seconds later in the day.

8. Shop local and organic. Use the Seasonal Food Guide to find out what's in season.

9. Compost your kitchen scraps. Twenty-four percent of the waste we send to landfills is organic waste - decomposition in landfills creates methane, a greenhouse gas 21 times more potent than carbon dioxide.

10. Serve tap water. Bottled water creates plastic waste, isn't safer than tap water, is expensive to buy and is often just tap water in a bottle.

11. Use candles made from soy or vegetable wax. Soy wax is clean-burning, without soot or harmful emissions.

12. Bring a local or organic bottle of wine. You can also look for the Eco Glass label on many different bottles of wine.

CHECK OUT THE LINKS FOR LOCAL EVENTS, RESOURCES, AND MORE...

:: GIVE BACK ::

DONATE TO OR JOIN AN ORGANIZATION

Some suggestions are listed below!

CLIMATE MOBILIZATION

An innovation lab that develops and launches policy frameworks, messaging, and organizing approaches to accelerate the global transition into “Emergency Mode” to address the climate emergency.

EXTINCTION REBELLION

Southern Vermont Chapter https://www.facebook.com/svtxr/

This is a non-violent rebellion against the US government for its

inaction of the ecological crisis. The group asks for honesty, action, democratic assembly, and a focus on those most vulnerable.

350.ORG

Vermont Chapter https://350vermont.org/

An international movement of ordinary people working to end the age of fossil fuels and build a world of community-led renewable energy for all.

See their events here https://350vermont.org/calendar/

::: CLIMATE ACTION :::

What's Next?

Connect with national FFF contacts #FridaysForFuture is a movement that began in August 2018, after Greta Thunberg sat in front of the Swedish parliament every school day for 3 weeks!

Join a local group near you! Our movement grows from the grassroots. Use our map to find local groups near you, or consider starting your own.

CLIMATE EMERGENCY

STILL TIME TO SIGN THE PETITION

TELL CONGRESS TO DECLARE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY NOW.

SIGN THE PETITION https://climateemergency.us

OCTOBER: Month 10 OF 12 PREP FOR WINTER ~ CONSERVE ENERGY ~ STAY WARM

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As we transition into the colder months, it's important to stock up, "button-up" and do our best to keep the cold out and the heat in! The number one way to save energy (and heating costs) is to keep the cold from penetrating your home. A changing climate means higher extremes - both hot and cold - to stay warm this winter let's do our best to have little impact on the environment.

This month we provide tips on how to prep for winter, conserve energy, as well as some updates from the recent climate summit. Let's consider our planet as OUR NUMBER ONE PROVIDER!

For those of you new to the scene, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

::: PREP FOR WINTER :::

::: CONSERVE ENERGY :::

FREE WAYS TO SAVE

1. Use a lower thermostat setting. You will save up to 3 percent on your heating bill per degree lowered over a 24 hour period.

2. Seal your chimney flue when not in use. Leaving your chimney flue open when not in use is the same thing as opening your window several inches.

3. Use fans to circulate air. Set on low, a fan can circulate air upward toward the ceiling forcing the warmer air downward.

4. Keep vents and radiators clear. This allows the air to circulate freely and you to get the full benefit of the warm air and put less strain on your furnace.

5. Clean vents, radiators, etc. This allows the air to flow freely into your rooms and promotes equal heat radiation.

6. Pay attention to your windows - 10-25% of a home's heat loss is through windows! Open curtains and shades on south-facing windows during the day and place blankets over uncovered windows and drapes at night.

7. Shut the doors. If the room is not used, why heat it? Shut the doors and close the vent when you are not in the room.

INEXPENSIVE WAYS TO SAVE

CHECK OUT THE LINKS FOR MORE INFO!

1. Use a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can help you save 10-20% on your energy bill year round. Cost: $20 and up.

2. Change air filters to permit a better air flow through the system. This also reduces the strain on your furnace, extending its life. Change the filter monthly, or whenever it is dirty. Bonus benefit – cleaner, healthier air! Cost: $2-10.

3. Seal the leaks in your house around doors, windows, near the attic, where wires/cables enter your house, and around electrical outlets. Seal gaps with caulk or weather stripping. Cost: $5 and up. Savings: 10-20% of heating bill.

4. Add insulation to your house. Basement insulation is often overlooked and will help keep your house warmer during winter months.

5. Seal heating ducts – Most ducts have small leaks that allow heated air to slowly escape. Prevent this with a roll of metallic tape (don’t use duct tape – it degrades over time!). Cost: $10 and up.

6. Insulate heating ducts - You can lose up to 60% of heat before it reaches the outlet, particularly if non-insulated ducts travel through unheated spaces such as the attic or basement. Cost: $10 and up. Savings: 10%+ of energy bill.

7. Use space heaters. Turn the heat down to 55 at night and use a space heater in your bedroom. Be careful when using space heaters – keep them clear of walls and flammable objects. Cost: $15-$35

8. Humidifiers can reduce heating costs because moist air retains heat better than dry air. Cost: $30 and up.

9. Air Vent Booster. An air-vent booster is a fan you install over your vent that works by drawing additional air into a room that is always way too hot or cold. It helps lower our utility bills and can save a lot of energy. An example is the AirFlow Breeze, which costs about $50.

10. Install heavy duty, clear plastic window treatments and reduce the amount of heat loss through your windows. This is a great idea if your windows are single pane windows. Cost: $5 and up. Save up to 10% of heating costs.

CHECK OUT THE LINKS FOR LOCAL EVENTS, RESOURCES, AND MORE...

::: CLIMATE ACTION UPDATES :::

GLOBAL CLIMATE STRIKE - WHAT'S NEXT?

The Global Climate Strike has shown we have the people power we need to solve the climate crisis and end the age of fossil fuels. But the biggest climate mobilization in history simply won’t be enough if people just go home!

UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE ACTION SUMMIT

UPDATES FROM SEPT 23 SUMMIT!

In the face of worsening climate crisis, UN Summit delivered new pathways and practical actions to shift global response into higher gear!!

CHECK OUT THE PRESS RELEASES!

CLIMATE EMERGENCY

STILL TIME TO SIGN THE PETITION


TELL CONGRESS TO DECLARE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY NOW.

SIGN THE PETITION https://climateemergency.us

OR JOIN AN ORGANIZATION, REACH OUT TO OTHERS, GET UPDATES

CLIMATE MOBILIZATION

an innovation lab that develops and launches policy frameworks, messaging, and organizing approaches to accelerate the global transition into “Emergency Mode” to address the climate emergency.

EXTINCTION REBELLION

Southern Vermont Chapter https://www.facebook.com/svtxr/

This is a non-violent rebellion against the US government for its

inaction of the ecological crisis. The group asks for honesty, action, democratic assembly, and a focus on those most vulnerable.

350.ORG

Vermont Chapter https://350vermont.org/

An international movement of ordinary people working to end the age of fossil fuels and build a world of community-led renewable energy for all.

See their events here https://350vermont.org/calendar/

SEPTEMBER: Month 9 OF 12 WHAT CAN WE LEARN FROM MOTHER NATURE?

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As the kids, and grand-kids, head back to school we citizens have a lot to think about! More reports, protests, and news feeds are focusing on our changing climate. As we transition into fall we do our best to have little impact on the environment; but as you know, we can do better for the future generation.

This month we provide an overview of the global action and reaction to climate change, how to stay abreast of this issues, possibly get involved, and remember our planet as OUR NUMBER ONE TEACHER!

For those of you new to the scene, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

::: LEARN :::

CHECK OUT THE FOLLOWING LINKS TO UNDERSTAND MORE ABOUT THE ISSUES AND POSSIBLE SOLUTIONS.

2019 REPORTS:

  • United Nations 2019 Climate Reports - all found at the following link: https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/reports.shtml

  • United Nations Climate Change (UNCC) Climate Action and Support Trends - the UN's input to the Climate Action Summit

  • Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Climate Change and Land - provides key scientific input into forthcoming climate and environment negotiations

  • United Nations Environmental Program (UNEP) Global Environment Outlook - builds on sound scientific knowledge to provide the information needed to guide societies to a truly sustainable world by 2050!

  • THE NEW CLIMATE ECONOMY - a report by the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate that outlines how bold climate action could deliver, not only a more sustainable environment, but other economic benefits as well. https://newclimateeconomy.report/

  • THE VICTORY PLAN - through the Climate Mobilization. Read how the U.S. could eliminate net greenhouse gas emissions at wartime speed, contribute to a global effort to restore a safe climate, and reverse ecological overshoot through massive WWII-scale mobilization. https://www.theclimatemobilization.org/victory-plan.

CLIMATE NEWS:

::: ACT :::

GET INVOLVED, SIGN A PETITION, ATTEND A PROTEST

GLOBAL CLIMATE STRIKE

SEPT 20-27, 2019

Students in more than 100 countries went on strike this year

to demand urgent action on climate change!

Join these young strikers on Monday September 20.

Find a local event near you.

https://globalclimatestrike.net/usa/


UNITED NATIONS CLIMATE ACTION SUMMIT

SEPT 23, 2019

UN Secretary-General António Guterres is calling on all leaders to come to New York on 23 September with concrete, realistic plans to enhance their nationally determined contributions by 2020, in line with reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 45 per cent over the next decade,

and to net zero emissions by 2050.


CLIMATE EMERGENCY

SIGN THE PETITION

TELL CONGRESS TO DECLARE A CLIMATE EMERGENCY NOW.

The planet is in crisis, and leaders are asleep at the wheel. We urgently need a massive effort to reverse global warming and protect humanity and the natural world from collapse.

SIGN THE PETITION https://climateemergency.us

::: JOIN :::

JOIN AN ORGANIZATION, REACH OUT TO OTHERS, GET UPDATES

EXTINCTION REBELLION

This is a non-violent rebellion against the US government for its inaction of the ecological crisis.

The group asks for honesty, action, democratic assembly, and a focus on those most vulnerable.

Southern Vermont Chapter https://www.facebook.com/svtxr/

350.ORG

An international movement of ordinary people working to end the age of fossil fuels and build a world of community-led renewable energy for all.

Vermont Chapter https://350vermont.org/

See their events here https://350vermont.org/calendar/

AUGUST Month 8 OF 12: A TOAST TO THE PLANET - OUR NUMBER ONE HOST!

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Many of us travel in August. It is by far the most popular month for family vacations! As we take to the road under perfect weather conditions we do our best to have little impact on the environment; but as you know, we can always do better.

This month we talk about smarter travel, how to reduce our carbon footprint while traveling, and remember our planet as OUR NUMBER ONE HOST.

For those of you new to the scene, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

HOW TO GET THERE:

  • Be aware of the carbon footprint associated with your mode of transport You can check out this link for a nice comparison on flying vs. driving.

  • Many companies, such as Lyft, purchase carbon offsets for the service they provide!

  • If flying - take direct flights, fly economy class, and pack light (will also avoid the extra baggage fees!)

WHERE TO STAY:

  • Book with eco-friendly hotels or Airbnb

  • Take a stay-at-home vacation instead of traveling

  • When staying at a hotel, practice eco-friendly habits by limiting the number of towels you use and how often housekeeping needs to wash sheets, etc.

  • Only use lights when absolutely necessary, otherwise, when you leave home for an extended period of time unplug everything that's not in use.

  • Traveling in a group?

  • Carpool whenever possible

  • Split meals so there are no leftovers to worry about

WHERE TO EAT:

  • When possible, eat the local food! Not only does it support the local economy, but your food will not have traveled too far to your plate.

  • If you need more variety think about bringing some of your favorite snacks with you, at least they won't be traveling separately!

  • Cook healthy meals when you can.

  • Don't forget to bring your own travel-size shopping bag!

TRAVEL ITEMS

  • As always, bring your own reusable water bottle and fill up when you can! Or try to recycle any disposable water bottles you do buy.

  • Try re-using those soap and shampoo travel containers, or using a jar from home and filling it with your favorite necessity item.

NEED TO OFFSET TRAVEL-CARBON? YOU CAN ALWAYS PLANT A TREE

~ SOME TRAVEL CARBON NUMBERS ~

  • Tourism accounts for around 8% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions

  • Air travel is the main contributor to the tourism GHGs, and the high-polluting industry will likely become increasingly problematic as the world gets richer

  • Flying less and/or investing in payments/actions to offset carbon damage caused by travel will be essential to avoid future growth in tourism-related emissions

  • In 2018, nearly 4.4 billion passengers were carried by the world's airlines, these flights produced 895 million tonnes of CO2

  • Around 80% of aviation emissions are from long-distance flights for which there are no other practical alternative mode of transport

  • Tourism is projected to have a 4% annual growth in global visits

  • We as a culture need to adopt the "slow travel" concept — an environmentally friendly way of experiencing journeys.

  • The key ingredients of "slow travel" include the importance of experiences en route to and at the destination, the enjoyment of local culture, and the use of low-carbon transportation modes based on a strong environmental consciousness.

  • The essential spirit of "slow travel" is quality over quantity!

JULY Month 7 OF 12: MAKING THE PLANET YOUR GUEST OF HONOR

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We hosted our 5 year anniversary party in the back garden under perfect weather conditions. Summer days are what Vermonters know to be worth the winter wait. We managed to do our entertaining with little impact on the environment but I know we can always do better.

This month we talk about summer entertaining and how to reduce, reuse, redeem and remember our planet as THE GUEST OF HONOR.

For those of you new to the party, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

EAT

  • POTLUCK! The beauty of having everyone bring something they made is the variety as well as consideration for an individual's allergies and special diet needs. There is less waste because folks can bring it home.

  • While BBQ is a great tradition for outdoor dining, you could consider

  • opting for gas grilling instead of charcoal grilling, carbon footprint of gas is 1/3 of a charcoal grill

  • if you're a charcoal purist (and I get it) opt for a charcoal chimney start to get your Bar-B going instead of lighter fluid

  • go veggie with portobello mushroom burgers or chickpea burgers, veggie skewers and grilled corn on the cob. YUM!

  • Opt for all natural cooking sprays instead of those with chemicals, or better yet, put olive oil in a spray bottle and voila!

  • Entertaining a small group?

  • Use regular serveware rather than plastic and paper.

  • Entertaining a large group?

  • disposable biodegradable serveware is your best bet. Buying something that’s biodegradable and made of renewable resources is going to have less of an impact than using a fossil-based material like plastic.

  • if you must use plastic, have everyone separate it from the rest of your compostables and wash it for the next shindig.

DRINK

  • Serve that can be dispensed from large containers (like giant mason jars) Don't buy cases of bottled water just fill up a giant water bottle.

  • If you need more variety think about redeemables instead of recyclables.

  • For beer, consider a keg instead of bottles and cans, use small pint mason jars or have folks bring their favorite stein or drinking container.

BE MERRY

  • Avoid disposable tablecloths and go with reusable.

  • Opt for homemade bug spray (cedarwood, lemongrass, geranium are all good bug deterrents)

  • Stick to purchasing citronella votive candles without a holder. Drop them in an old jelly jar for protection from the summer breeze.

BY THE NUMBERS

HOW DO OUR BARBECUES MEASURE UP?

  • 250 pounds per year: The amount of CO2 you'd save by cutting your beef consumption by one quarter.

  • 3,000 pounds per year: The amount of CO2 saved by becoming a vegetarian.

  • 60 million: The number of Americans who fire up the grill during summer holidays.

  • 225,000 metric tons: The amount of CO2 released by these celebrations.

  • 75 percent: U.S. households who own at least one barbecue.

  • 11 pounds per hour: The amount of CO2 generated by a charcoal grill.

  • 6 pounds per hour: The amount of CO2 emitted by a propane grill.

  • 13 pounds per year: The amount of CO2 saved by letting your leftovers cool to room temperature before putting them in the refrigerator.

JUNE Month 6 of 12: What is the value of water?

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It might not feel like summer is here for those of us in southern VT but it is. With the heat soon to arrive let's think about water conservation.

A few suggestions of ways to save. A little conservation can have a big impact.

For those of you seeing this for the first time, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

IN THE BATH

  • Shower Less, Swim More. Enjoy the rivers and lakes to rinse off. A daily shower is not always necessary and some would say too frequent. We need the good bacteria to stick around and fight the important fight.

  • When you do shower...

  • consider a shower bucket. Don't let the water pour down the drain, stick a bucket under the faucet while you wait for your shower to heat up. Use the water for flushing the toilet during power outages, watering your plants, washing your dog or car.

  • in the warmer weather, turn on the water to get wet, lather with the water off, turn the water back on to rinse.

  • Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, washing your face, or washing your hands. Water comes out of the average faucet at 2.5 gallons per minute. Leave it off until it’s time to rinse.

  • If it’s yellow, let it mellow. The toilet is one of the most water-intensive fixtures in the house. Do you need to flush every time?

  • Older toilets use a lot of water. You can reduce your usage by sinking a half gallon jug of water in the toilet tank.

  • Consider a low-flow faucet or shower head, especially the next time you replace a bathroom fixture.

IN THE KITCHEN

  • Re-use your pasta cooking liquid. Instead of dumping that water down the drain, drain your pasta water into a large pot. Once cool, use it to water your plants.

  • Don’t run the dishwasher or washing machine until it’s full. Those half-loads add up to gallons and gallons of wasted water.

  • Hand-washing a lot of dishes? Fill up your sink or a bucket with water, instead of letting it run the whole time that you’re scrubbing.


IN THE YARD

  • Shrink your lawn. Even better: lose the lawn completely. Give back to the birds and the bees.

  • If you do have a lawn, plant drought resistant grass next time it needs seeding. This way you will use less water to keep it healthy.

  • Install a rain barrel. Rainwater harvesting is a great way to keep your plants hydrated without turning on the hose or sprinkler. Also, a good place to dump that pasta water.

  • If you don't want to install a barrel, simply place a few watering cans or buckets in strategic locations to catch run-off from rain or condensation coming off your metal roof.

  • Water outdoor plants in the early morning. You’ll need less water, since cooler morning temperatures mean losing less water to evaporation. Later in evening is also a good time, as water will not evaporate in midday sun.

EVENTS

Youth Demand Action on Climate Change!
at 118 Elliot St in Brattleboro
Wednesday, June 05, 2019
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

https://118elliot.com/calendar/world-environment-day-youth-action-climate-change/

On June 5, United Nations World Environment Day, come to 118 Elliot and hear student activists from our region, ages 13 to 20, who will share their stories.------


A Global Need, a Village Effort, an Individual Responsibility

MAY Month 5 of 12: MAYke a difference this month by MAYking your own

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This Saturday is Vermont's Green Up Day where Vermonters take to the roads and highways to clean up the litter that lingers after the snow melts. A tradition since 1970 it's a good reminder of the waste that gets created when making purchases with packaging.

Recycling is no longer the answer and we need to go to the source of our rubbish which means being more mindful of what we buy and how it's packaged.

For those of you seeing this for the first time, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING:

  • Green up day can be every day. When you take a walk in your area, bring a baggie along and fill it up.

  • BUY in BULK: oils, peanut butter, spices, nuts, granola, pastas, flour, sugar, grains the list goes on and on. All of these can be bought in bulk.

  • Bring your own containers to refill. You can reuse the containers in the bulk section, the deli/prepared foods counter and in produce.

  • Let your produce be free range. No need for individual produce bags. Aside from little items like green beans or mushrooms, which you can bring your own bags for, the rest of your produce can co-mingle in your grocery bags.

  • MAYke your own this month. MAYbe just try MAYking one thing on the list below with the easy to follow directions. Or join Holly this month for a MAYke your own workshop.

TICK REPELLENT - Ticks on the rise, prevention is the best way to combat these buggers.
100 or so drops of any of these essential oils: citronella, clove, lemongrass, rosemary, tea tree, eucalyptus, cedar, catnip, geranium, lavender, mint.
1 TBSP vodka or rubbing alcohol
½ cup natural witch hazel
½ cup water (or vinegar)
1 tsp vegetable glycerin (optional)

  1. Place essential oils in a glass spray bottle. Add vodka or alcohol shake well to combine.

  2. Pour in witch hazel and shake to combine.

  3. Add ½ tsp vegetable glycerin if using. This is not necessary but helps everything stay combined.

  4. Add water and shake again. Shake before each use as the oils and water will naturally separate some over time.

SHAMPOO - An alternative to the No POO method which doesn't work for all hair types. Try this...1/4 cup coconut milk (homemade or canned)
1/4 cup Liquid castile Soap like Dr. Bronners
20 drops of Essential Oils of choice (peppermint, lavender, rosemary and orange or a combination)
For dry hair: add ½ tsp olive or almond oil (optional)

  1. Combine all ingredients in an old shampoo bottle or jar of some kind.

  2. Shake well to mix.

  3. Keep in shower for up to a month.

  4. Shake before each use.

  5. Use about a teaspoon

  6. If you use a foaming dispenser, it also makes a great shaving cream- just dilute with 1/4 cup distilled water!

DEODORANT - Tried and tested by one of our 12x12ers. She loves this deodorant, best she's ever used.
6 T coconut oil
1/4 cup (4TBSP) baking soda
1/4 cup (4TBSP) arrowroot or organic cornstarch
essential oils (optional)

  1. Mix baking soda and arrowroot together in a medium sized bowl.

  2. Mash in coconut oil with a fork until well mixed.

  3. Add oils if desired.

  4. Store in small glass jar or old deodorant container for easy use.


LOOKING FOR A FEW MORE RECIPES? GO TO WELLNESS MAMA FOR MORE.

EVENTS:

Youth Demand Action on Climate Change!
at 118 Elliot St in Brattleboro
Wednesday, June 05, 2019
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm

https://118elliot.com/calendar/world-environment-day-youth-action-climate-change/

On June 5, United Nations World Environment Day, come to 118 Elliot and hear student activists from our region, ages 13 to 20, who will share their stories.------


A Global Need, a Village Effort, an Individual Responsibility

APRIL Month 4 of 12: How WILL your garden grow?

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Earth Day this month and the longing for sunny days and bare feet so let's talk about what's in store for the garden.

Gardeners and non-gardeners let's make plans for all the things we can grow ourselves collaborate with neighbors and the NVY community to expand beyond our own gardens.

For those of you seeing this for the first time, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting new environmentally friendly changes each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

  • Start your garden NOW, indoors, preferably in a window so you don't need a grow light.

  • Reuse potters from last year or ask around if folks have some. You can also give these back at the end of the season to most farm stores. Walkers and Duttons always take them back.

  • Don't end up with more zucchini then you can eat, swap it with a friend. Team up with friends or neighbors, plant strategically so you can share the harvest. If you still end up with extra, consider donating it to the local food bank.

  • Plan your companion plantings. Plant things together that benefit each other. This kind of planning can help keep pests away as well as encourage beneficial bugs like bees. It can also provide nutrients for the soil. For example, planting nasturtium with your potatoes helps keep the potato bugs away. Find out more here https://www.farmersalmanac.com/companion-planting-guide-31301

  • Install a rain catcher to water your garden. https://www.treepeople.org/installarainbarrel https://morningchores.com/rainwater-harvesting/

EVENTS

Replanting Our Rainforests Pamela Malhotra of Sai Sanctuary, India
Saturday April 20 12:00-1:00
Moore Free Library
Donations accepted for SAI Sanctuary ($10-$20)

Co-hosting with the Moore Free Library, join Newfane Village Yoga and the 12x12 Environmental Team as we welcome Pamela Gale-Malhotra co-founder of the Sai Sanctuary, India’s first private forest and wildlife sanctuary.

Pam and her husband, Anil, have transformed abandoned farmlands into one of the most biodiversity-rich forests in India. Pam will share how the Sai Sanctuary came to be, the scientific need for keeping our forests and wildlife healthy and balanced along with the spiritual (or human) connection to nature.

Come hear how the forests and wildlife are critical to the healthy, peaceful, and spiritual future of humankind, and how walking the path of life with Mother Nature as our guide and teacher will ensure we live in harmony and balance with each other and our environment.

A donation to the SAI Sanctuary will be greatly appreciated. Suggested $10-$20.

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Architecture + Design Film Series: Leaning into the Wind
Wednesday, April 10 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm
118 Elliot St, Brattleboro, VT

The Architecture + Design Film Series continues with LEANING INTO THE WIND Directed by Thomas Riedelsheimer 2017, Germany, 97 Minutes PREVIEW ON YOUTUBE Leaning into the Wind is a vibrant journey through the diverse layers of Andy Goldsworthy’s world. From urban Edinburgh and London to the South of France and New England, each environment he encounters becomes a fresh kaleidoscopic canvas for his art. A lushly-visualized travelogue, Goldsworthy’s work and Thomas Riedelsheimer’s exquisite cinematography redefine landscape and inextricably tie human life to the natural world.

Doors open at 6pm.
Films are free and open to the public.

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ORGANIZATION HIGHLIGHT

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Dummerston Conservation Commission

The mission of the Dummerston Conservation Commission is to promote community responsibility and awareness of our conservation needs and to encourage stewardship of the natural habitat.

http://dummerstonconservation.com/


A Global Need, a Village Effort, an Individual Responsibility

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds

and therefore, anything.

MARCH Month 3 of 12: Reorganizing the Rs

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A beach-y image for those needing a change of scenery. And the theme of this month's 12x12 suggestions. Garbage and plastic in the ocean. MARRRRRRCH is month 3 of our 12x12 Environmental Initiative with the following suggestions; expanding and reorganizing the Environmental Rs.

For those of you seeing this for the first time, a quick catch up... we’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting a new environmentally friendly change each month for the next 12 months. Keep the suggestions and efforts coming and we'll add them to our list.

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

RETHINK AND THEN
Refuse, Reduce, Replace,
Recover, Repair

RETHINK

  • Do you need it?

  • Track your consumption where might there be waste.

REFUSE

  • Carry a cloth napkin and no more paper napkins.

  • Coffee on the run? Bring your own thermos and fill up.

REDUCE

  • Buy products that have less packaging or better yet buy in bulk.

  • Instead of buying something can you can borrow or rent it?

  • Minimize the impulse shopping.

  • Avoid single servings.

  • Read your newspapers and magazines online.

REPLACE

  • Replace paper towels with hand-dryers or cloth towels.

  • Choose environmentally friendly alternatives, biodegradable cleaners and garbage bags that use less toxic chemicals

RECOVER

  • Pick up trash when you go on walks and hikes, recycle when you get home

  • Start a compost bin.

REPAIR

  • Do you really need to buy a new one or can you repair it?

FEBRUARY Month 2 of 12: Love The Planet This Valentine's Day

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February is month 2 of our 12x12 Environmental Initiative with the following suggestions; loving the earth this Valentine's Day, bring your own, take a one day break, and absorb the heat. Take a look at our suggestions, change it up for one solid month and stick with it for life.

Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything. ~ George Bernard Shaw

Join our force of concerned yogis that can change our minds and therefore, anything.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:
Resetting the order of the 3 Rs. REDUCE first.

  • Bring your own utensils and napkins. Leave them in your car or bag. They'll be there when you eat on the run.

  • Take a break from buying bottled water and bring your own container. The studio has some lovely abandoned water bottles, we'd love you to have one.

Reduce Emissions:
Take a break.

  • Eat meatless for one or more days a week. Just developing some meat-consciousness will help your health and the health of the planet.

  • Stay home and try not driving for one solid day.

  • I know it's cold but idling the car for more than 15 seconds is a waste of fuel and of fumes.

Energy Conservation:
Catch the heat before it's gone! An open and shut case.

  • Open your blinds and curtains to let the heat in. Shut them again right after dusk.

  • Close vents and doors to rooms not being used.

  • Using a woodstove? Try setting a pot of clean water on it to use as hot water throughout your day. For tea, steaming veggies, boiling pasta. Fast dish water or add it to your bath.

Love Your Planet for Valentine's Day:

  • Give a potted plant instead of flowers*

  • Choose a locavore restaurant for your special dinner. Locally sourced. Farm to table.

  • Make your own planted seed Valentine's Day cards. https://gardentherapy.ca/seed-paper-v-day-cards/

  • Give Fair Trade Chocolate.**

  • Make a donation on your sweetie's behalf or volunteer together.

A FUEL FACTS

  • *If the roses you choose are grown in a U.S. greenhouse, they require artificial light and heat before being flown or hauled in a temperature-controlled truck, resulting in significant energy use and carbon emissions.

  • **Fair-trade certified cocoa is often shade-grown, providing wildlife habitat and protecting rain forests. It also helps ensure the farmers are paid a fair wage for their products and have safe working conditions.

  • The livestock sector — raising cows, pigs and chickens — generates as much greenhouse gas emissions as all cars, trucks and automobiles combined.

HEAT WITH WOOD?

Brave Little State had an interesting story about the highs and lows, pros and cons of heating with wood. Take a listen and you decide.

http://digital.vpr.net/post/what-are-pros-and-cons-heating-wood

JANUARY Month 1 of 12: Post-holiday, Staying Warm and Combining Road Trips

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Thanks for the enthusiastic response for this 2019 Initiative. We're excited to get started. For those of you seeing this for the first time, a quick note to catch you up. We’re looking to our community of friends and yogis to consider adopting a new environmentally friendly change each month for the next 12 months.

January kicks off month 1 of our 12x12 Environmental Initiative with the January suggestions; post-holiday cleanup, staying warm and combining road trips. Take a look for how you might change it up for one solid month and stick with it for life.

Remember that no habit can be changed if the process isn’t manageable and accessible. While at times this might get inconvenient we don’t want it to be impossible.

THIS MONTH TRY THE FOLLOWING

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:

Resetting the order of the 3 Rs we need to consider reducing first then reusing and then recycling.
Starting to remove the holiday cheer? Consider the following;

  • Compost or chip your tree as well as your natural wreaths and decor. Save all bows and ornaments for next year.

  • Cut the covers off of holiday cards and use them for next year’s present labels.

Reduce Emissions:
Combine your rides

  • Create a small group of friends that you can text or email about errands. Offer to pick things up for them or plan a day of the week to do your shopping together.

  • Ordering online with an in-store pickup is available at many of the larger stores. You can grab your friends order as well as your own in one trip.

  • Carpooling to work or events (like yoga) are a great emission and gas saver.

Energy Conservation:

An additional benefit tied to energy conservation is that it saves you money. This month try the following

  • Look for easy places to insulate or reduce drafts. You can do a lot of weatherization without the need of a contractor. Check out Efficiency Vermont's Video on Air Sealing Your Home

  • Reduce the temperature on your thermostat by 2*. If you have a programmable thermostat lower the temp at night to 60*

  • Warm up indoors with a hat, fingerless gloves or woolley socks/slippers.

  • Make your own fingerless gloves. See below for links to videos that show you how.

FUN AND HELPFUL LINKS

ENVIRONMENTAL EVENTS

  • The Climate Change Cafe meets at the Brooks Library in Brattleboro once a month from 6-9pm on Tuesdays. They present films, presentations and have community conversations regarding climate change. The next one is January 22nd.

  • http://www.brattleboro.com/events-calendar/#!/details/Climate-Cafe/5842813/2019-01-22T18

The 12x12 Environmental Initiative: The Plan

A Global Need, a Village Effort, an Individual Responsibility

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As the end of the year approaches I'm reflecting on what has transpired in 2018. I feel extremely blessed to have such a supportive community of well intentioned and caring yogis. It's because of this community that the studio exists and not a day goes by that I am not reminded of that fortune. With this growing and supportive community comes an opportunity to develop and promote initiatives such as the one I am about to detail for you.

Since October I've been very preoccupied with the environmental reports as well as the increase and severity of natural disasters. What resonates loudly for me is that I need to take personal responsibility for the future of this planet. Because of this, NVY is launching a 2019 initiative and looking for our community to support, suggest and participate with practical ways that we can all change our behavior to positively impact the planet.

We're calling this the "12x12 Environmental Initiative". This is inspired by reports from the world’s leading climate scientists that there are only a dozen years for global warming to be kept to a maximum of 1.5C. Beyond this point the risks of drought, floods, extreme heat and poverty for hundreds of millions of people will worsen.

During 2019 this initiative will be about encouraging ourselves and each other to change one habit to benefit the environment each month. To kick this program off we are asking our community for suggestions of personal changes that could benefit the planet. We’ve created a blackboard space at the studio to note your suggestions. We will also take them by email, Facebook, text, hieroglyphics, phone, carrier pigeon, on little pieces of scrap paper, or in person. We'd love to gather dozens and dozens of suggestions so everyone has a wide variety of options from which to choose.

Phase two will be to organize and publicize the suggestions and encourage each other to participate all year long with events, programs, and discussions.

I'm hoping you will consider joining in this initiative. Personally, I see I can make changes in my life to be more considerate of the planet. No matter how enormous the problem, I CAN and MUST make a change. My individual actions will affect the future of this planet and if we work as a community our changes can have an even greater impact.

Thank you all for taking the time to read this and for considering the effort. We want this to be accessible and manageable, there is no judgement or expectation only a request for patience, generosity and discipline of which I know we are all capable.

Love and Blessings,

Jen