During mentor session we discussed any sustainable practices we did in out daily lives. I realized that I do not do as much in one area compare to another area. For instance, I may be assertive about recycling, but I do not necessarily go out of my way to separate the recyclables from the composts once in the trash. Or at least, I do not go digging through my garbage can if I only see a faint sign of it. I have also mentioned during mentor session that I want to start a compost heap, especially since my mom has a garden. However, there were a few factors that had prevented me from doing so.
One, there is really no place for me to start a compost without it being in the way. Or at least not in an area that would attract too much attention; this may only discourage me more since I really do not want to do anything to upset my dad.
Second, it is common knowledge that rotting items will produce a foul odor. Sadly, I live in a neighborhood where the houses are close to each other. This would bother not only my family but the neighbors as well, and I do not need the headache about disturbing the public with my project.
Third, it may attract raccoons, and since my family is not so fond of raccoons I fear, and would not be surprised, if they become part of the compost.
Fourth, even if we did set up a spot for the compost we would need to make it a habit to go outside and dump our trash onto the pile. This may have to take some effort, since I am pretty sure my family will not be doing this on their own without being told. I also have to acknowledge that going outside to throw out our trash requires quite a bit of effort opposed to going to our garbage can in our kitchen.
Aside from my mediocre recycling habits, I have the tendency to not turn on the lights in my house unless necessary. For instant, when I take my showers at night I would leave the lights off (if this example is awkward for you to read I apologize), or I would navigate through my house without turning on the lights. This practice is not very big but it is something.
Stacy,
Since writing this blog, have you started to recycle more? If so, is it as hard as you thought it previously was? I know I used to hate recycling plastic containers (like yogurt or sour cream containers), because it was one more thing you had to clean. But as soon as I made a habit out of it, I stopped thinking about and I just started doing it automatically.
Here is a link to an indoor composter that is suppose to be smell free: http://www.greenandmore.com/indoor-kitchen-composter.html
Maybe something like this would work for you and your family.
Jamie
I have been recycling more now, but I think that was because my family decided to pay for the recycling services; we got the recycling bins. Though, I must say I am indeed more proactive with recycling since I’ve taken Sustainability. I would sometimes hang onto bottles, glasses, or paper until I find the next recycle bin. Or if I see something that could be recycled in our garbage can at home I would take it out and put it in our recycle bin. Taking it one step at a time. Who knows, maybe I’ll composting soon too.
Thank you for the composting link by the way. I’ll see if I can start as soon as possible.