UNESCO’s Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change (Part 3)

What Is the Concept of Sustainable Development?

Sustainable development is the concept that defines the need for transition and change that our planet and its inhabitants need to live in a more equitable, healthy, and environmentally friendly world.

A model for the organization of society:

Sustainable development comes from the combination of two words, which, put together, define a model of the organization of society.

By development, we mean the improvement of the performances (economic, social, etc…) of a society.

The term sustainable characterizes something that lasts, that is stable and resistant.

The combination of the two words defines sustainable development: the improvement of the performance of a society to make it stable in time.

Sustainable development is a way of organizing society to meet the needs of the present as effectively as possible without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Today, this transition to a more sustainable model is necessary to live in a more equitable world and to preserve our planet and its natural resources.

The model of a sustainable society is based on fundamental pillars and principles.

The three pillars of sustainable development

Sustainable development implies a mode of organization based on 3 essential pillars:

The environmental quality of human activities to limit environmental impacts and preserve ecosystems and natural resources in the long term.

Social equity ensures that all members of society have access to basic resources and services (education, health, food, housing, etc.) to meet humanity’s needs, reduce inequalities and maintain social cohesion.

Economic efficiency by reducing extreme poverty and guaranteeing employment for the greatest number of people in an economic activity that pays a decent wage. A sustainable economy is a healthy management of human activities without harming humans or the environment.

These 3 pillars make up the challenges of sustainable development. These pillars are accompanied by fundamental principles to achieve a more sustainable society.

The fundamental principles of sustainable development

UNESCO’s Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change (Part 2)

Solidarity between countries, peoples, generations, and members of society. For example: save raw materials so that the greatest number of people can benefit from them.

Precaution in decisions in order not to cause catastrophes when we know that there are risks to health or the environment. For example: limiting CO2 emissions to slow down climate change.

Participation of everyone, regardless of their profession or social status, ensures the success of sustainable projects. For example: setting up children and youth councils.

Responsibility of everyone, citizen, industrialist, or farmer. So that whoever damages, degrades, and pollutes repairs. For example: make the industries that pollute a lot pay a tax.

These principles are sometimes incompatible with the consumer society in which we live.

This is why many people (elected officials, associations, companies, individuals, young people…) are asking that our economic system be rethought to move towards a more sustainable society to preserve the planet and its resources.

Sustainable development is an urgent need and a real opportunity to redesign our society.

Why is sustainable development essential today?

In 1800, there were 900 million human beings on earth. In 2020, our planet will be home to 7.8 billion people. This strong population growth is accompanied by increased demand for goods and services and production methods that lead to environmental and social disorders.

In the 1970s, many experts and scientists sounded the alarm about the impact of human activity on the planet. Since the industrial revolution, our society has experienced unprecedented development, but without really measuring the consequences of the evolution of its lifestyle. To this have been added:

the acceleration of exchanges with the rest of the world (globalization);

the increase in inequalities between rich and developing countries;

the demographic growth forecasts aim at 10 billion inhabitants on the planet by 2100.

Today, 80% of natural resources are consumed by 20% of the world’s population. This creates areas of great wealth and great poverty. In some areas of the world, the inhabitants do not have access to drinking water, health care, education, and a dignified job.

But how can we ensure access to food and drinking water, health, and education for all? How can we ensure the protection of biodiversity and fight against climate change?

This is why finding a new model of sustainable development is urgent.

Human societies will have to enter a transition and rethink all their activities. Many actors are already engaged in this transition towards a mode of operation that is more respectful of the environment and human beings.

The actors of sustainable development

Everyone is concerned by this transition to a new, more sustainable model of society. The different actors who are already acting, at their own level, by carrying out sustainable development actions are the citizens: children, young people, parents, etc…, the eco-delegates in high schools and colleges, educational institutions: schools, colleges, high schools, universities, campuses, associations and clubs, companies, farmers, local authorities: cities, departments, regions…, the State, the European Union, and many others… 

We are all concerned with sustainable development, so let’s move together toward a new model of society that is more respectful of the environment.

Green and Inclusive Growth Towards Sustainable Development

Over the past 20 years, economic growth has lifted more than 660 million people out of poverty and increased the income of millions of men and women. Yet this growth is often achieved at the expense of the environment.

Multiple failures – in markets, policies, and institutions – meaning that the exploitation of the Earth’s natural capital is often inefficient and wasteful, that the social costs of resource depletion are not adequately and appropriately addressed, and that the process is not accompanied by reinvestment in other forms of wealth. These failures threaten the sustainability of long-term growth and progress in social welfare. Moreover, despite the benefits of growth, 1.3 billion people lack electricity, 2.6 billion lack sanitation, and 900 million lack access to clean, safe water. In other words, growth has not been sufficiently shared.

Should we grow at any cost, even if it means dealing with the environmental damage later? No, there are other choices for developing countries. Many useful measures can be implemented immediately: not only are clean air, water, and solid waste management among basic needs, but many environmental policies also improve productivity and poverty reduction. If poor countries are to work to meet basic needs and increase opportunities for growth, they must do so in an environmentally sound manner. Moreover, since environmental performance does not automatically increase with income, it must, in all cases, be accompanied by public policy actions. Finally, postponing the resolution of the environmental issue may be impossible or extremely costly, either because the ecological damage will be irreparable, as in the case of biodiversity loss, or because the wait-and-see attitude and the resulting blockages will have made the cost of environmental protection policies and processes, when they are finally implemented, exorbitant.

The future we want to build

Sustainable Development

When well-designed, green and inclusive growth policies enhance social welfare and take into account the needs of both current and future generations. However, policymakers are also rightly concerned about the potential trade-offs, costs, and co-benefits of green policies for growth and employment in the short term. Careful analysis on a case-by-case basis will be needed to determine optimal strategies. However, there is strong evidence that short-term costs can be minimized through well-designed regulations and market-based policy instruments that promote low-cost means of environmental protection. Green growth can thus pave the way for more sustainable development, reconciling the urgent need for sustained growth with the imperative to move away from unsustainable growth patterns and avoid irreversible environmental damage. Green growth is not opposed to growth. It implies a change in the way we manage our economies, a change that must reflect a broader conception of what constitutes efficient and sustainable growth.

The ability and willingness to value natural capital underpin the transition to greener growth. Natural capital (water, land, air, ecosystems, and associated “environmental services”) accounts for a considerable portion of a country’s wealth. Like physical and human capital, natural capital must be invested in, maintained, and managed to be productive and contribute fully to prosperity. In order to accurately measure progress in the transition to green growth, countries will benefit from applying methods of calculation that take into account the full wealth and value of ecosystems in addition to their conventional indicators, such as GDP.

In fact, there is no single model for green growth. Strategies vary across countries, preferences, and national contexts. One country’s “best practices” need to be carefully evaluated before being replicated elsewhere. Nevertheless, all countries, rich and poor, have the opportunity to make their growth greener and more inclusive without slowing it down.

How to achieve this goal

Greening growth requires policies that are inherently pro-growth and pro-environment – such as reform of energy subsidies or tariffs that protect high-polluting sectors. For governments, this means difficult pricing, regulatory, and public investment reforms on the one hand and complex changes in behavior and social norms on the other. To achieve green growth, it is important to know when to take the right policy action, even if the outcome will not be ideal from an economic perspective.

The World Bank’s Green and Inclusive Growth report presents a strategy that focuses on three main areas:

Axis 1 – Designing green and inclusive growth strategies tailored to country contexts, with an emphasis on maximizing immediate local benefits and avoiding deadlock. The optimal solutions will be different in each country, depending on institutional capacities, public transparency and accountability, and civil society’s capacity to act.

Axis 2 – Promote effective and sustainable decision-making by policymakers, consumers, and the private sector. Market-based instruments, such as pollution taxes, are important because they contribute to efficiency and stimulate innovation. A range of complementary approaches will be needed to encourage individuals to change their behavior and maximize the capacity of the private sector. Although we are still far from accurately pricing ecosystem services, we know that their value is considerable. Natural capital should be systematically included in national accounts. In February 2012, the UN Statistical Commission made the System of Integrated Environmental and Economic Accounting an international standard, establishing a generalized methodology. Neglecting natural capital, as well as neglecting human and physical capital, is detrimental to the economy and growth.

Axis 3 – Meeting initial investment needs with innovative financing tools. Given limited budgetary resources, there is an urgent need for governments and multilateral financial institutions to work to increase private sector investment in greening the economy. The establishment of public-private partnerships is essential to reduce trade barriers and achieve economic uses and decisions that are both commercially profitable and environmentally and socially sound.

Ultimately, green growth depends critically on good growth policy at, which should aim to determine fair prices and correct market failures, address coordination failures and knowledge externalities, and allocate property rights. However, it should be noted that when an economy has structural defects, green growth policies are not a panacea. Environmental protection measures cannot solve problems of macroeconomic instability, a failing labor market, an under-regulated financial system, or a hostile business environment.

Moreover, even if affordable green growth can be achieved, a country’s economy can hardly become green overnight. The rapid change would result in a sharp slowdown in growth, at least in the short and medium term. On the other hand, the prospect of a necessary and, therefore, brutal transition, in the long run, should be a strong motivation to start working on this task now.

Green2

What Sustainable Development Is All About

Sustainable development is the concept that defines the need for transition and change that our planet and its inhabitants need to live in a more equitable, healthy, and environmentally friendly world.

A model for the organization of society:

Sustainable development comes from the combination of two words, which define a model of the organization of society.

    – By development, we mean improving a society’s performance (economic, social, etc…).

    – The term sustainable characterizes something that is stable and resistant.

The combination of the two words defines sustainable development: the improvement of the performance of a society to make it stable in time.

Sustainable development is a way of organizing society to meet the needs of the present as effectively as possible without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Today, this transition to a more sustainable model is necessary to live in a more equitable world and to preserve our planet and its natural resources.

The model of a sustainable society is based on fundamental pillars and principles.

The foundations of sustainable development:

A sustainable economy is a healthy management of human activities without harming humans or the environment. Sustainable development implies a mode of organization based on 3 essential pillars:

    – The environmental quality of human activities to limit environmental impacts and preserve ecosystems and natural resources in the long term.

    – Social equity ensures that all members of society have access to essential resources and services (education, health, food, housing, etc.) to meet humanity’s needs, reduce inequalities and maintain social cohesion.

    – Economic efficiency by reducing extreme poverty and guaranteeing employment for the greatest number of people in an economic activity that pays a decent wage.

These 3 pillars make up the challenges of sustainable development. These pillars are accompanied by fundamental principles to establish a more sustainable society.

The fundamental principles of sustainable development:

    – Solidarity between countries, people, generations, and members of society. For example: saving raw materials so that the greatest number of people can benefit from them.

    – Precaution in decisions not to cause catastrophes when we know there are risks for health or the environment. For example: limiting CO2 emissions to slow down climate change.

    – Participation of everyone, regardless of their profession or social status, to ensure the success of sustainable projects. For example: setting up children and youth councils.

    – Responsibility of everyone, citizen, industrialist, or farmer. So that whoever damages, degrades, and pollutes the environment has to repair it. For example: make the industries that pollute a lot pay a tax.

These principles are sometimes incompatible with the consumer society in which we live.

This is why many people (elected officials, associations, companies, individuals, young people…) are asking that our economic system be rethought to move towards a more sustainable society to preserve the planet and its resources.

Sustainable development is an urgent need and a real opportunity to redesign our society.

Why is sustainable development essential today?

UNESCO’s Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change (Part 2)

In 1800, there were 900 million human beings on earth. In 2020, our planet was inhabited by 7.8 billion people. This strong population growth is accompanied by increased demand for goods and services and production methods that lead to environmental and social disorders.

In the 1970s, many experts and scientists sounded the alarm about the impact of human activity on the planet. Since the industrial revolution, our society has experienced unprecedented development, but without really measuring the consequences of the evolution of its lifestyle. To this have been added :

    – the acceleration of exchanges with the rest of the world (globalization) ;

    – the increase in inequalities between rich and developing countries;

    – the demographic growth forecasts aiming at 10 billion inhabitants on the planet by 2100.

Today, 80% of natural resources are consumed by 20% of the world’s population. This creates areas of great wealth and great poverty. In some regions, the inhabitants do not have access to drinking water, health care, education, and a dignified job.

But how can we ensure access to food and drinking water, health, and education for all? How can we protect biodiversity and fight against climate change?

This is why it is urgent to find a new model: sustainable development.

Human societies will have to enter a transition and rethink all their activities. Hopefully, many actors are already engaged in this transition towards a mode of operation that is more respectful of the environment and human beings.

The actors of sustainable development

Everyone is concerned by this transition to a new, more sustainable model of society. The different actors who are already acting, at their own level, by carrying out sustainable development actions are :

US and international citizens: children, young people, parents, etc…

The eco-delegates in high school and college

Educational institutions: schools, colleges, high schools, universities, campuses

Associations and clubs

Companies

Farmers

Local authorities: cities, departments, regions…

The State

The European Union 

The United States

And many others… 

Hope this post has been informative to you. Remember to jot down a few words in the comments below. We are all concerned with sustainable development, so let’s move towards a new model of society that is more respectful of the environment.

Sustainable Development

What Is Sustainable Development?

 

Sustainable development is the concept that defines the need for transition and change that our planet and its inhabitants need to live in a more equitable, healthy, and environmentally friendly world.

A model for the organization of society:

Sustainable development comes from the combination of two words, which define a model of the organization of society.

    – By development, we mean improving a society’s performance (economic, social, etc…).

    – The term sustainable characterizes something that is stable and resistant.

The combination of the two words defines sustainable development: the improvement of the performance of a society to make it stable in time.

Sustainable development is a way of organizing society to meet the needs of the present as effectively as possible without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Today, this transition towards a more sustainable model is necessary to live in a more equitable world and to preserve our planet and its natural resources.

The model of a sustainable society is based on fundamental pillars and principles.

The foundations of sustainable development: The three pillars of sustainable development

A sustainable economy is a healthy management of human activities without harming humans or the environment. Sustainable development implies a mode of organization based on 3 essential pillars:

    – The environmental quality of human activities to limit environmental impacts and preserve ecosystems and natural resources in the long term.

    – Social equity ensures that all members of society have access to essential resources and services (education, health, food, housing, etc.) to meet the needs of humanity, reduce inequalities and maintain social cohesion.

    – Economic efficiency by reducing extreme poverty and guaranteeing employment for the greatest number of people in an economic activity that pays a decent wage.

These 3 pillars make up the challenges of sustainable development. These pillars are accompanied by fundamental principles to achieve a more sustainable society.

The fundamental principles of sustainable development:

Sustainable Development

    – Solidarity between countries, peoples, generations, and members of society. For example: saving raw materials so that the greatest number of people can benefit from them.

    – Precaution in decisions not to cause catastrophes when we know there are risks for health or the environment. For example: limiting CO2 emissions to slow down climate change.

    – Participation of everyone, regardless of their profession or social status, to ensure the success of sustainable projects. For example: setting up children and youth councils.

    – Responsibility of everyone, citizen, industrialist, or farmer. So that whoever damages, degrades, and pollutes repairs. For example: make the industries that pollute a lot pay a tax.

These principles are sometimes incompatible with the consumer society in which we live.

This is why many people (elected officials, associations, companies, individuals, young people…) are asking that our economic system be rethought to move towards a more sustainable society to preserve the planet and its resources.

Sustainable development is an urgent need and a real opportunity to redesign our society.

Why is sustainable development essential today?

In 1800, there were 900 million people on earth. In 2020, our planet was home to 7.8 billion people. This strong population growth was accompanied by increased demand for goods and services and production methods leading to environmental and social disorders.

In the 1970s, many experts and scientists sounded the alarm about the impact of human activity on the planet. Since the industrial revolution, our society has experienced unprecedented development, but without really measuring the consequences of the evolution of its lifestyle. To this have been added:

    – the acceleration of exchanges with the rest of the world (globalization);

    – the increase in inequalities between rich and emerging countries;

    – the demographic growth forecasts aim at 10 billion inhabitants on the planet by 2100.

Today, 80% of natural resources are consumed by 20% of the world’s population. This creates areas of great wealth and great poverty. In some areas, the inhabitants do not have access to drinking water, health care, education, and a dignified job.

But how can we ensure access to food and drinking water, health, and education for all? How can we protect biodiversity and fight against climate change?

This is why it is urgent to find a new model: sustainable development.

Human societies will have to enter a transition and rethink all their activities. Many actors are already engaged in this transition towards a mode of operation that is more respectful of the environment and human beings.

UNESCO’s Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change (Part 2)

UNESCO’s Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change (Part 2)

Climate change, believe it or not, is a pressing issue, and in 2017, UNESCO addressed it by issuing the “Declaration of Ethical Principles in Relation to Climate Change.” So, let’s learn more about the declaration and the different principles established in this treaty.

Article 5: Sustainable Development

Article 5: Sustainable DevelopmentTo ensure that present and future generations are able to meet their needs, it is urgent that all States and pertinent actors:

(a)promote  the  implementation  of  the  United  Nations  2030  Agenda  for  Sustainable  Development  and  its  SDGs,  especially  by  adopting  sustainable  patterns  of  consumption,  production  and  waste  management;  by using resources efficiently; and by fostering climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions development;

(b)work  to  ensure  that  each  person  benefits  from  the  opportunities  of  development,  especially  those  who  are  vulnerable (see Article 10), and in this way, contribute to the eradication of poverty in all its forms and dimensions, including extreme poverty;

(c)tackle  the  adverse  effects  of  climate  change  in  areas  that  deserve  special  attention  due  to  their  humanitarian  implications  and  consequences,  including  but  not  limited  to:  food,  energy,  and  water  insecurity,  the  ocean,  desertification, land degradation, natural disasters, displaced populations, as well as the vulnerability of women, children, the elderly, and especially the poor.

Article 6: Solidarity

  1. Solidarity implies that human beings collectively and individually should assist people and groups that are most vulnerable to climate change and natural disasters, especially when catastrophic events occur.
  1. States and other pertinent actors, and those who have the capacity to address climate change should act and cooperate by taking into account:

(a)the  importance  of  protecting  and  enhancing  the  world  we  share  in  a  way  that  reflects  the  solidarity  and  interdependence  among  peoples  of  different  backgrounds,  and  the  interdependence  of  humankind  with  other  organisms, ecosystems, and the environment; 

(b)the well-being, livelihoods and survival of future generations which depend on our current use of resources and the resulting impacts thereof;

(c)the interconnectedness of the physical, ecological, and human systems of all countries, regions and communities across Earth.

  1. Knowledge related to the causes, modalities and impacts of climate change and responses to it should be shared equitably and in a timely manner in order to increase the adaptive and mitigating capacities of all, and to increase the resilience of people and ecosystems.
  1. Developed States and  other  States,  on  a  voluntary  basis,  as  well  as  relevant  actors  should  strive  to  strengthen  timely  cooperative action in the areas of technology development and transfer, support for the synthesis of relevant information and knowledge, capacity-building, and means and financial resources to developing countries, especially those that are most vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change, particularly to least developed countries (LDCs) and small island developing States (SIDS).
  1. States, on a  voluntary  basis,  can  also  address  the  challenges  of  climate  change  through  South-South  and  triangular  cooperation.

Article 7: Scientific Knowledge and Integrity in Decision-Making

Article 7: Scientific Knowledge and Integrity in Decision-Making

  1. Decision-making based on science is critically important for meeting the mitigation and adaptation challenges of a rapidly changing climate. Decisions  should  be  based  on,  and  guided  by,  the  best  available  knowledge  from  the  natural  and  social  sciences, including interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary science, and by taking into account, as appropriate, local, traditional and indigenous knowledge. 
  1. In order to optimally aid in decision-making, science needs to meet the highest standards of research integrity by being impartial, rigorous, honest,  and  transparent,  and  should  give  adequate  estimates  of  uncertainty  in  order  to  provide  decision-makers with insight into, and understanding of, the underlying risks as well as opportunities, and guidance to their formulating long-term strategies.
  1. Scientific cooperation and  capacity  building  should  be  strengthened  in  developing  countries  in  order  to  develop  a  comprehensive understanding of climate change impacts as well as potential mitigation and adaptation actions.

 

 

How Compost Benefits Your Garden and the Environment

Making compost is ecological and very good for the garden. It means recovering rainwater for watering, combining crops, adopting natural fertilizers, etc. In this post, you will learn how composting is one of the most immediate actions on your waste because of its ‘recycling’ virtues.

Made from garden and kitchen waste, a natural fertilizer rich in organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, etc., is obtained from compost. Individual composting is also a simple activity, full of advantages, since it reduces the production of household waste treated by the community and contributes to preserving the environment. Explanations to get started.

What is compost?

Whether you use a balcony composter, an indoor vermicomposter, or a garden composter, the principle remains the same. Composting is an operation that consists of degrading organic waste in the presence of oxygen from the air under controlled conditions. Two phenomena follow one another in a composting process. The first, bringing the residues to the state of fresh compost, is an intense aerobic degradation (capacity or need of an organism or a microorganism to develop in the ambient air):

  • Essentially the decomposition of fresh organic matter at high temperature (50 to 70°C) under bacterial action;
  • A less sustained degradation will transform the fresh compost into a mature compost rich in humus.

This maturation phenomenon, which occurs at lower temperatures (35 to 45°C), leads to fungi’ biosynthesis of humic compounds.

Compost or the art of composting

Compost is a rich material made by billions of microorganisms. It is the result of composting, a natural process that transforms organic matter into an earth-like product.

The organic matter is broken down by microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi that transform it into the simple elements that plants feed on.

How does composting work?

How Compost Benefits Your Garden and the Environment

 

Composting is an easy recycling method that can be done at home. It is an easy way to reduce the amount of waste produced by households by a third. Also, composting has an excellent soil amendment used for gardening and landscaping.

What is the benefit of composting?

Compost improves soil quality and strengthens the stock of humus in the soil, improving soil fertility and promoting soil life. Gardeners will use it for all their plantings (vegetable gardens, flower beds, trees, etc.).

Organisms living in the soil

Healthy soil is active and is home to microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and yeasts and larger creatures such as earthworms. The survival of these organisms depends on the availability of air, water, and nutrients in the soil.

In return, these organisms provide unparalleled recycling. They break down organic matter to release nutrients for root development and plant growth. Also, they mix the soil to improve its aeration, texture, and structure.

Feeding the soil (and plants)

Fertile soil contains macro and microelements. Plants need both elements to grow.

Macroelements include nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), and sulfur (S). These elements provide primary nutrients to plants. The first three, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, are consumed in large quantities by plants. They all contribute to specific functions such as leaf and stem growth (N), root growth (P and K), flower and fruit development (P), and general vitality (K).

Plants also need microelements called trace elements. These include iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn). Their presence in tiny quantities is essential to plant life. A balanced and optimal supply of these microelements has a critical impact, as excesses can be harmful to plants. Compost provides a balanced and reasonable supply of these microelements(1).

Moreover, this approach has a lot of interest in sustainable development since it promotes recycling organic matter in short circuits on its territory. This method reduces greenhouse gas emissions and fights against runoff phenomena (organic matter helps retain water in the soil).

Two good reasons to start composting

Therefore, compost reduces waste and the number of road garbage trucks. It also allows a reduction in the number of incinerators and, therefore, landfills.

For the garden, making household compost allows the production of natural and non-polluting fertilizers. Besides, it improves the soil’s quality, contributes to the growth of plants and flowers, and helps plants develop a sound root system.

Hope you like this post. Remember to leave your comment below.

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

 

Summary

Step 1: Choosing: cut or clumped Christmas tree?

Step 2: Buying: the right things to do right from the start to preserve it

Step 3: Installing: thinking about the location

Step 4: Recycle with an ecological conscience

 

Traditionally, the tree is installed on Christmas Eve and kept until Epiphany. How can you keep it, despite the falling needles?

1. Choosing: cut or root ball Christmas tree?

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

You can buy a cut tree (in a pot or on a log) or a root ball (in a pot or a bucket). If you choose a root ball, you can replant the tree after the holidays and enjoy it for a long time. On the other hand, cut trees do not last more than one month for some and up to two months for others:

You can keep cut spruce for 3 weeks.

A cut Nordmann can be kept for up to 8 weeks.

2. Buying: the right things to do from the start for conservation

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

From the start:

Delay the purchase as much as possible if you want the tree to look good during the holidays. Christmas is a time when it is generally warm in our homes, which dries out the tree.

Whatever tree you buy, so that it doesn’t suffer a thermal shock between the store and your home, leave it for a few days in your garage or on your balcony, for example. It will also have time to unfold and will not dry out too quickly.

3. Install: think about the location

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

First, never place your tree near a heat source (radiator, fireplace, etc.) or a bay window where the sun can shine. This will dry out the tree, which will quickly lose its needles.

Cut fir tree: keep the humidity

The foot of the tree should be bevelled to encourage water absorption through the trunk.

You can also make a vertical hole in the base of the trunk or split it vertically to slide a wet cotton ball (which will conduct the water).

Finally, you can place the tree in a bucket filled with hot water before putting it on its log: the wood will soften, and the water will be more efficiently conducted into the top of the trunk.

Potted fir

It would be best to water the potted tree as soon as the soil is dry. If you buy a tree in a clump or cut, you can also put it in a bucket of sand that you will regularly wet to keep it better.

Maintain the needles

You can spray water on the branches of your tree 2 to 3 times a week unless you have fragile or electric decorations.

Avoid artificial snow which dries out the tree.

Good to know: some people use flour to replace it.

4. Recycle with an ecological conscience

How to Conserve Your Christmas Tree

The tree is entirely biodegradable; if you want to do something ecological, you can recycle it.

Some cities organize collections: depositing your tree in specific places is up to you.

Only unflocked trees without decoration and artificial snow are accepted. Please do not put them in a bag and don’t hesitate to contact your town hall for more information.

The trees will then be transformed into shredded material to be used either as mulch spread on garden beds or as an element for making compost.

Some stores also offer the return of the purchased tree. The conditions are the same (no snow, no decoration, no bag…). They will generally use them to make compost.

Finally, the solution of the waste disposal center is another alternative.

But you can also cut your tree into sections for firewood or make a potpourri with its pine needles. Moreover, you can buy a tree with roots to replant it as soon as the holidays are over or use a chipper to obtain mulch to spread on your property.

parents

Sustainability As A Parent

If you’re reading this, you probably live a life that prioritizes intentionality and sustainability. Perhaps you’ve just received the wonderful news that you will be a parent. While becoming a parent is a fantastic experience and one of life’s most joyous milestones, it is not without stress and worry. And just as there are numerous methods to teach little children about self-sufficiency, there are also numerous ways to be a sustainable parent to a newborn. You may think you’ve got it all figured out, but luck is on your side if you’re prepared.

 

So, it’s a good start if this checklist verifies what you previously planned to do as a first-time parent or uncovers a few things you hadn’t considered.

 

Pregnancy, Couple, Love, Pregnant, Woman

Home Birth

While every new parent must accept that even the best-laid intentions do not always come to fruition, they can still be hoped for and prepared for. With that in mind, if you’d like to give birth at home rather than in a hospital, it’s worth considering. If you’ve ever visited a hospital, you’re well aware of the numerous gloves, cups, paper towels, and other thrown items. Sure, they’re essential in a hospital setting, but you may not believe a hospital is necessary for your delivery. Many individuals choose to have their babies at home for reasons other than sustainability, although it is an incentive for many.

 

Cloth Diapering

While you’re overjoyed, you’ll notice that you’re also fatigued practically immediately after bringing your bundle of joy home. It takes a lot of time and works to raise a child, especially first. You’re up and down and all overdue to unpredictable sleep cycles and breastfeeding. While the convenience of store-bought diapers is appealing, their environmental effect is significant. According to research, cloth diapers are better for the environment but better for your newborn’s fragile skin.

People, Man, Adult, Hands, Child

 

The Textiles You Use

You should consider this with your baby’s clothing in the same way we should think about it with our clothes because of its environmental and humanitarian implications. You want to utilize as many natural materials as possible, from their swaddle blankets and crib sheets to the baby jumpsuit they wear on their first nature walk. The ideal fabrics for these things are 100% cotton and linen. They’re not only gentler on the baby’s sensitive skin, but they’re also more breathable. Because babies’ skin is delicate, they are susceptible to heat rash, pimples, eczema, and other skin conditions; therefore, choosing sustainable materials is good for the environment and health.

 

Speaking Of Skin

Because their sensitive bodies are prone to various skin problems, it’s a good idea to consider what you’ll be using on them for bathing, moisturizing, and treating any issues that may arise. While some parents choose to manufacture their baby creams or shampoos, there are numerous natural goods on sale that are both environmentally friendly and safe for your child. During your pregnancy, spend some time researching companies and the substances they utilize. It’s critical to choose products that reflect your beliefs and use ingredients you can trust. If you have friends with kids who share your beliefs about living sustainably, ask them for advice.

 

Utilize Your Village

It is said that it takes a community to raise a child, which is surely true! However, use your village to recycle stuff that they may no longer need for your infant. You don’t have to go out and buy a brand-new crib, changing pad, or whatever else you think you’ll need when your friends or family members may have them sitting in their attic collecting dust. While buying a new car seat and stroller is a smart idea for safety, reusing other products saves you money and helps the environment!

 

Congratulations! Although becoming a new parent can be frightening at first, it is the most gratifying job you will ever have. Investing in your children and future generations is as vital as investing in the planet you’ll leave them on. So, apply the suggestions above to make this world a better environment for your little one. Let us know in the comments how are you willing to cope living efficiently while being a parent…

Car Battery Recycling

Why Is Car Battery Recycling So Important?

 Batteries are, in general, extremely polluting. It is therefore essential to ensure that they are recycled. This concerns car battery, which everyone should put in the right place.

 The law states that the manufacturer or retailer of car batteries must collect the used batteries and assume the costs generated by their collection and transportation to the sorting centers.

 Thus, throwing away your car battery in nature is punishable by a fine. How to avoid the fine while protecting the environment?

 Where to dispose of your used batteries?

 When a car battery becomes worn out, it is imperative to drop it off:

 – to a garage;

 – in a supermarket that collects batteries;

 – at a car parts dealer.

 Why is recycling car batteries essential?

 Batteries contain lead and sulfuric acid, which are highly toxic for the environment:

 – The plastic casing releases the heavy metals it contains over time. These are then released into the air, the soil, and the water.

 – Once in nature, the various toxic substances contained in the metals penetrate living organisms (animals, plants, and humans…).

 Good to know: lead car battery recycling plants are generally mature and profitable. The value of the lead recovered offsets the cost of recycling the batteries.

 The process of recycling car batteries

Car Battery Recycling

 When the batteries arrive at the recycling center, they are first crushed to separate the different materials:

 – Lead, oxidized materials, and all metal parts are melted down for reuse.

 – The electrolyte is also regenerated and can be reused.

 – The plastic materials contained in the battery are also recycled.

 What about electric car batteries?

 These batteries, made from lithium, are much more efficient than their lead cousins. Their recycling will soon become a significant issue in the electric car market:

 – Used for cars, airplanes, or even drones, they are becoming increasingly important in the battery market.

 – Research projects and partnerships are being developed around the world to enable the recycling of these batteries, which is very expensive and difficult to set up.

Read more:

myplanetblog.com:

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towards-sustainability.com:

The Best Eco-Friendly Humidifiers

Do you suffer from nasal congestion, dry skin, or colds every winter? It can happen to anyone! That’s why we like to start the season off well by investing in a dependable humidifier. Humidifiers keep us warm and hydrated by adding just the right amount of moisture to the air.

While Vicks and Dyson’s humidifiers are popular, they aren’t necessarily the most environmentally friendly since they sometimes require plastic filters or a lot of power. Instead, these are the finest humidifiers for an environmentally conscious house that use energy-saving technology, paper filters (or none at all! ), and automated controls. Many are dual-purpose air purifiers and humidifiers and humidifiers and diffusers—perfect for the winter!

Check out these eco-friendly air purifiers if you want two different units. Better still, try these indoor plants that are naturally clean and provide moisture to your home’s air!

Diffuser, Oil, Aroma, Sleep

1. The Canopy

Excell at purifying and humidifying the air. Paper filters, incorporated UV lamps, sophisticated sensors, replacement filter subscription accessible, USB-C charger are just a few of the features.

Size | 500 sq. Ft. and up

Price: $150.00

Look no further than Canopy for a healthy humidifier for both the air and your health. It cools down rooms up to 500 square feet for up to 36 hours of continuous use while also utilizing anti-mold and UV sensor technology to ensure that the air is as pure as possible.

This air purifier and humidifier combo will aid with dryness and dullness, nasal congestion and cough, and scent diffusion as required. For the most environmentally friendly clean, it exclusively utilizes paper filters.

2. Vornado

Ideal for medium-sized areas. Energy-efficient, with auto-humidity management and water-level sensors, as well as 5- and 10-year warranties.

Size | 750 sq. Ft. feet

Cost | $89.99

We like the energy-efficient humidifier from Vornado, prominent air circulation and humidifier manufacturer. The EVDC3000 humidifier uses 90% less energy than a standard Dyson or Vicks humidifier and can cover up to 750 square feet at once. We like that it includes auto-humidity management, low water indications, and a long guarantee, all for less than $100.

3. Missed Global

Wireless, transportable power bank, two nano-mist adjustable sprays, USB charger, seven-color lights, numerous warranties, and a 30-day trial return policy. Best known for its power & mobility.

Size | Up to 150 sq. ft.

Cost | $85

Missed Stella, one of three models in a series from Global, combines power and mobility for the greatest air care. It’s a 12-hour-running wireless air humidifier that’s ideal for the office, bedroom, or even the vehicle for road trips. Are you looking for something that is quick-acting, low-maintenance, and portable? And cleaning it takes less than 30 seconds? Consider us perplexed.

4. Objecto

It can be used without a filter. It is remote-controlled, has an automatic shut-off feature, and has a detachable water tank.

Size | Up to 800 sq. ft.

Cost | $299.99

The Objecto H9 Tower Hybrid Humidifier is one of the few filter-free humidifiers on the market, which means no single-use accessories are required. With a height of three feet, it provides tremendous coverage of up to 800 square feet. Even though it’s an investment, this hybrid humidifier comes with remote control, scent settings, automatic shut-off, and nearly 22 hours of continuous use.

5. Essentique

Made in the USA with earth-friendly materials, essential oil diffuser, automatic shut off

Size | Up to 500 sq. Ft. 

Price | $120

If you like humidifiers and diffusers, check out the all-in-one Essentique Casa Aroma Diffuser. It produces 2.5 million ultrasonic vibrations each second, releasing clean, fresh air that is perfumed with your favorite essential oil. It’s as functional as stylish, with multiple color options, an LED light, and a porcelain base. It’s a pleasant approach to obtaining a good night’s sleep because it has an automatic shut-off.

Do you find any of these humidifiers interesting? Let us know in the comments…