Inspirational Insight

What do we teach our kids, and any child in our life? That they can be whatever they want when they grow up, and that the possibilities are endless. But what if the choices we're all making right now are ultimately hindering their abilities to flourish in the future? Considering the reality of human-induced climate change and tragedies like the major plastic pollution problem, ocean pollution/acidification or mass-extinctions, we can't deny that our collective actions are not helping to provide a very opportunistic lifetime for kids today. Unless, of course, we all do our part to promote more sustainable ways of living ASAP. We still have a small window of time, to come together and use our innovative minds in order to change our collectively destructive ways and clean up the messes we've made. Remember, "we do not inherit the Earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children."

There's nothing wrong with thinking big, or having grand goals and dynamic dreams beyond what we think may be possible. In fact, our world needs more aspiration from everyone right now. Especially and specifically moving towards a more sustainable future. We need more people to believe in themselves and to push for positive global change on any and every level. The scales need to be tipped away from things like consumerism, greed, hate, divisiveness, and ignorance, and tipped towards ideals of conscientiousness, sustainability, inclusiveness, unity, love, and understanding. Working individually and together, it is possible to create a future where everyone's rights, no matter how simple or profound, coincide with the betterment of the entire global community and the preservation of the natural world for generations to come. Historically, groups of people working together have been one of the main and only catalysts for real, necessary change.

We must keep in mind there is strength in numbers. As much as our individual choices and actions matter, listening to and working with others is just as important. Opening our minds and our hearts, realizing we may have privilege, or we may be unfairly treated, or unfortunately judged based on something which we have no control - accepting our position and using it to an advantage is the best thing we can do. For me personally, it's privilege. I know and understand that my position as a white, middle-class, college-educated female living in a country with many freedoms gives me an advantage. So does the fact that my parents bought or inherited property and in turn so did I. The main privilege in my life, however, is that I was raised to be conscientious and aware of, not only my position of advantage in the world, but the state of the rest of the world. Sometimes it can feel like a curse, right? To be hyperaware of the conditions of people, animals and environments suffering across the globe - and feeling like I can't do enough to help - is agonizing. Understanding that as I sit here and write these words, trying to make a difference, people, animals, and the environment are oppressed, overworked and overburdened just so people like you and me can have commodities like the devises we're using now.

So what can we do? We can talk about it. Educate others (even if it makes them feel uncomfortable or get defensive), listen to others (really listen, try to understand another perspective and empathize without judgement in order to cultivate understanding and connection), and use these tools of communication and intelligence to spark action. Make the time to put in the extra effort to use the reusables, to grow our own food, to pick up trash, to find alternatives to over-processed, over-packaged convenience items, to write to companies and governmental bodies about using renewable instead of destructive, finite resources. Want less stuff. Need less stuff. Take care of stuff so it lasts longer. Make informed, conscientious decisions about the stuff we do consume. Stop using single-use plastic. Stop sucking (straws). Don't buy into society's trap of hierarchy by overconsumption and lack of consideration for life as a whole. Create relationships based on what people are like or how they treat others instead of what type of car they drive or whether or not they own a boat or the newest smartphone. Focus on how every little thought, decision and action each one of us takes individually, helps or hurts us all in the long run. Figure out what drives you and get inspired by it to make positive changes to yourself that will flow outward to others and the world.

What does a better tomorrow look like to you? And how can you begin to accomplish it? There's a role for every single person - even the naysayers and the ones with their head in the sand, forcing the rest of us to strive harder to change the current realities we know to be true. How will you make a difference? How will you be an example of positive change for future generations?

Money and Power VS. The People

Money should never be more important than any life. Unfortunately, in our current global social-economic situation, it has become just that. Right now, billions across the globe live in poverty. Even millions of citizens in the United States struggle to live off low wages while paying rising bills for basic (often inadequate) services like electricity and water. The gap between the very rich and the very poor constantly grows while the majority of those with power to lessen the polarity of wealth inequality, historically and currently, tend to turn their heads for ease or allow policies which favor lining their own pockets. It doesn't take much to realize that certain companies, corporations, their executives, and the politicians supporting/being supported by them, are clearly profiting greedily at the expense of working, struggling humans in the U.S. and all over the world.

It's unfair that hard-working citizens take the blame upon themselves; believing they're just unlucky, couldn't catch a break, or didn't work hard enough. Because the truth is, it's not just them, it's a huge amount of people being taken advantage of so that a few people in charge can have more money and possessions than they'll ever really need. This current state in our world clearly demonstrates that the majority of those supposedly representing "we, the people" and protecting our most basic freedoms - like rights to clean air, water and soil for starters - are not working to serve us (their constituents) but instead to please their bosses and fuel their own self-serving interests. Politics are ruled by money and even politicians will admit that. Powerful people bend or make the rules in order to manipulate the systems in their favor, often because they're simply greedy. But this is not just about pointing fingers and placing blame, it's about a call to action for all citizens and the promotion of demanding things like transparency, accountability, education, sustainability and positive solutions.

**Put It Into Practice**

We must take responsibility for the health of our planet, each other, and all other life. It begins with accepting ourselves, others, the truth of what's going on, and our ability to do something about it. When we're not divided by our differences, we are united by our similarities. We're all simply human, all needing the same things to survive, and we will all someday die, leaving the state of the world to our children and grandchildren. In the grand scheme of things we are a tiny fraction of this existence, the smallest of contributions to an infinite work-in-progress, and as a whole, humans in this current era are doing much more harm than good.

Our species possesses consciousness but we seem to be lacking integrity. We have full knowledge of, and control over, our thoughts, choices, and actions; yet, we are allowing ourselves to be ruled by convenience and money while destroying our only planet in the process. This can't be what's meant for us, for our highly-evolved species. A majority of us fighting for survival and suffering while too many are complacent, very few of the privileged help, and the truly powerful seem to do nothing. How can this state of affairs be what anyone stands for? As one human to another, how can we be okay with what some of us are inflicting on others?

Shouldn't we be coming together to decide what's important for us as a group and what will benefit our species as a whole instead of reeling with divisive hate that only pushes us closer to our own demise? It's too easy to sit behind a screen with a keyboard telling everyone who will listen why we are right, but what does that actually accomplish? If we stopped arguing and could find common ground by brainstorming practical goals, imagine what we could accomplish. Unfortunately, it's difficult to work toward a global community when the priority has become money and it's each person for themselves. Unity is tough when we are so polarized, when many work hard and are struggling to make enough to survive while being taken advantage of by a few who just scam and scheme to get as much as they can.

In a way I get it, because I, too, obviously need money to survive. Even the articles and videos this blog links to will no doubt have advertising, trying to sell anything from window cleaner to shoes or more personalized items based on what websites we visit, like camo gear or new facial cream. It's understandable that companies need to try to sell their products so they, their stock holders, workers, etc. can all make the money they need to keep their world spinning. It makes sense because when money is what keeps us secure and comfortable, we do what we have to do to keep it coming.

However, is having what we want worth swaying our moral compass? Is it worth the value of human life? Should money be a motivating factor so great that it forces us to do what we know isn't right? Success shouldn't be measured by how much power one has, how much money one makes, or how much stuff one owns, but by how we feel intrinsically, what we do for those around us, and how we treat all others. We shouldn't need big houses nor fancy cars nor the newest brand toys and clothes to legitimize our status, but sadly we do, because we have been raised in a capitalistic society and we've been taught this is the way to prove ourselves as successful. Because of this mindset, it seems we would screw over another human just to make a quick buck. We must challenge this notion, all of us, because really, our individual successes should reflect our success as a species and should be based on progress and prosperity of the human race as a whole. In other words, life should always come before money. In terms of this key fact, our race is currently proving unsuccessful. Let's be the change!

ECO-MAD Traveling

Ancient cliff dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park, Co, USA.
An unbelievable piece of history
I'm so grateful has been preserved.

What we take away from our travel experiences can and should be much more than material possessions or photographs. As humans we're able to consciously recognize and remember our perceived memories and feelings created from our experiences, which generates personal growth, helps shape us, and allows us to become more fulfilled and more comprehensive as individuals. Even when we travel we can make a positive impact by EXERTING CONSCIENTIOUS OPTIONS that MAKE A DIFFERENCE.

Like all ECO-MAD decision-making, it's essential to be informed and aware of the effects our actions have on others (the locals) and the planet (the local environment) while we're visiting somewhere. To be conscientious of the place we're going, how we get there, what we bring with us, what we do there, and what we bring back, is all important because our actions have effects that ripple. In addition, since it's nearly impossible to accomplish consumption-free traveling, it's helpful to check ourselves by considering how, what and why we consume what we do when we're 'on the road'.

The place.
Before going somewhere, there are many advantages in doing research, not just on the destination itself but also on the general impacts of tourism. The more we know, the more powerful we can be in reducing our impact while experiencing the destination to its fullest and possessing a clear conscience.

The stuff.
Time to think about our baggage, and what sustainable essentials to bring. Reusable options can severely cut down on some of the worst and most abundant waste-creating convenience items, not to mention save money and create all-around healthier habits. From field trips to road trips, here's some reusables to consider:

• Ice chest - to bring our own food so we can avoid fast-food or expensive restaurants, avoid excess packaging, and as a bonus, clear the fridge out at home so foods don't go bad.
• Stainless cups and straws - to ensure we avoid unnecessary plastics and waste when we get our drinks-on-the-go.
• Stainless or glass water bottles - so we don't have to drink out of plastic or create waste. Maybe even make our own juice to bring in an extra bottle?
• SteriPEN (hand-held UV light water purifier) - to use after filling our reusable bottles from a tap or stream (clear, flowing water) so we don't have to worry about getting sick.
• Bamboo utensils - a lightweight, easy-to-carry alternative to plasticware.
• Lightweight bowl/plate - great for backpacking, travel-picnicking or festivals; an all-around great tool for all sorts of travel, especially if you love food!
• Wine/alcohol bag - in case we want a drink but metal/glass isn't allowed.
• Tupperware (preferably glass, although reusable plastic is lighter weight for travel) - for leftover or to-go food.
• Reusable clear bag for toiletries - then we don't have to use something like a Ziploc.

Eco-friendly toiletries are essential since our bodies soak the ingredients in and because drains often lead to waterways and seas. Every individual has different preferences and needs, but as stated in previous posts on this blog, the best thing we can do is research and - if we're not making it ourselves with ingredients and packaging we're knowledgeable about - find out things like where the products come from and who makes them, how they're made and with what, what they're packaged in and how much waste they create. Having this type of information means the difference between us (millions of consumers) supporting environmentally, socially, ethically, etc. responsible products and companies versus those which greedily put profits above all else. Some travel toiletry products to consider researching:

• Coconut oil
• *has so many uses straight out of the jar  
• **can be mixed with other ingredients to create even more uses
• Chapstick* (if made at home we can package in a reusable container)
• Lotion* (if made at home we can package in a reusable container)
• Shampoo
• Conditioner**(and/or hair mask*)(if made at home we can package in a reusable container)
• Soap** (if made at home we can package in a reusable container)
• Facewash** (if made at home we can package in a reusable container)
• Sunscreen
• Toothpaste** (if made at home we can package in a reusable container) 
• Toothbrush (bamboo is more sustainable than plastic)
• Feminine products (there are alternatives to pads/tampons like menstrual cups/underwear, which are less wasteful)
• Razor (metal or bamboo with replaceable heads or resharpenable blades to reduce waste)
• Water floss/pick (if we're dedicated enough to bring it with us traveling)

Airports, etc. are becoming more compatible
with sustainable lifestyles!

The transportation. 

Hopefully, we can hit the road with the least amount of impact (no pun intended). Certain methods of travel are worse for the planet than others, but also unavoidable at times. We may need the help of an airplane to get where we're going, but it's important to consider that some airlines do make up for their carbon footprint - or at least don't increase it - by reducing, reusing and recycling in many areas of service. It's crucial to support the people, businesses, companies, organizations, corporations, etc. who are making a positive effort. Attempt whenever possible:

• Walk
• Take public transportation
• Carpool
• Ride bicycles 
• Rent the most gas efficient vehicle possible, or go electric if it's an option. 
• Support locally run rental/transportation companies (usually assures that money spent stays in the community).

Avoid whenever possible:

• Cruises (mainly because of their negative impacts on the environment, specifically the seas, which are essential to their business - go figure)
• Riding on an animal of any kind unless you know for a fact it's being treated humanely.  
• Unnecessary, excess transportation (this requires proper planning to avoid, but again, not always avoidable) 
• Supporting mega-chains or huge corporations (whose profits often disregard the local communities and instead benefit shareholders/CEOs)

The activities.
No matter the purpose of our trips or where we go, one thing we can and should always do everywhere is "leave no trace" - or better yet, leave all places better than we find them, ensuring they are preserved for other visitors and future generations. The best way to make sure our traveling activities are (among other things) sustainable, responsible and humane is - again for emphasis - to DO OUR RESEARCH. Ask questions. Who runs the activity? Is the activity being done in a responsible way? What are the impacts of the activity on the surrounding people, animals and place? Are there global impacts? A business with nothing to hide will have transparency and be able to give us most information we request, plus we can talk to locals and others who have done the activities, or read reviews.  From activities as harsh as 'elephant riding' to those as seemingly harmless as shell collecting, it's dire that we pay attention to not only the repercussions of our own visit, but the lasting effects that will result from tourism as a whole, when multiplied by at least millions of visitors in our lifetime alone. It just so happens that "ethical tourism" is a thing and it's trending, so for those with access to Internet, beginning to find information is as easy as typing 'choosing ethical tourism' into the search bar and hitting enter!

The return.
It's important when deciding what to buy and/or bring home with us (souvenirs) that we take into consideration not just the typical questions of 'where is it made, who made it, what is it made of, how is it made, what are the mass-scale effects if any, etc.?' but also 'what can people use and or experience rather than just have?'. Most likely, for example, someone will enjoy a gift like locally made food items (hot sauce, jam, etc.) with unique ingredients from the place visited, or some local music or art to ponder, rather than something plastic or 'made in China'. Again, a place to begin research if you have internet access is as simple as searching 'ethical souvenirs'.

What wilderness does for the self is inexplicable,
and preservation of the wild is our responsibility.

**Put It Into Practice**

ECO-MAD traveling, as with ECO-MAD in general, begins with knowing, respecting and loving ourselves (our feelings, habits, fears, joys, goals, etc.) first and foremost so that we ultimately make conscious choices and educated decisions which are rooted in personal confidence, are fulfilling for who we know we are, and are beneficial for us as well as for our community, society as a whole, and the planet.

Getting in touch with ourselves and being informed on the issues surrounding our daily decisions and actions does require extra effort, but at this point it's necessary and we are supposed to be the most highly-evolved species on Earth, so it's a fact that we are capable. We all have the ability to get in touch with who we are, with our conscience and with our intrinsic values, and many of us also have the ability to do general research on issues meaningful to us because we have access to endless information in an instant.

There's truly no excuse for humans to be making uninformed, convenience-based choices which cause harm to ourselves, others, and the planet. There should be no question as to whether or not it's worth putting in the effort to be less impactful so that future generations can have the same freedoms, on the same biodiverse planet, that we have now. Remember, we have immense power in our choices. We can set examples, spread sustainable education, start a movement, influence the status quo, stand up to socially irresponsible practices, hold wrongdoers accountable, and make positive change, with our choices and actions, but we must make the conscious decision to do it.