Post in What do you do?

2007 Mar 13 20:06 UTC

Roger -- I do agree that the carbon footprint purchases seem like an easy way
out -- pollute as much as you want and then throw money so you feel better
about yourself.  However, it seems to me that most people who invest are or
have reduced their footprint to their level of comfort and would like to invest
in environmentally friendly technologies.  The system is based on the Kyoto
Protocol where caps would be set and then countries could trade their carbon
credits.  Before everyone cries over the debilitating effects of such a matter,
the same protocol has been implemented to combat acid rain with sulfur
emissions.  This article explains the pros and cons of carbon trading much more
eloquently than I:

http://www.realclimate.org/index.php/archives/2006/05/buying-a-stairway-to-heaven/

I appreciate this thread because I am always looking for new suggestions.  I
don't see the point in wasting for any reason or least minimizing the waste
stream.  I know I can espouse the greatness of biking everywhere but I don't
think it would convince anyone to start riding (though my brother asked me to
build him a bike; I am such a proud sister!).

One of my favorite discoveries is a Minnesota-based company called Restore
(http://www.restoreproducts.com/).  I know at my co-op they have a refill
system, so you can reuse your plastic container multiple times.  I have only
used their hand soap and laundry detergent thus far.  When I begin to think of
all the plastic containers that I have wasted in the past, it is mind-boggling!
I have seen them stocked at the Cub near Har Mar but I did not see a refill
system.

Another reason why I enjoy a co-op is because of the bulk items.  Besides
carrying every baking and cooking ingredient I can think of, you can also
purchase nut butters, pasta, nuts, dried fruits, candy, beans, teas,
cereals...the list is pretty extensive. Most of the products are also produced
locally as well. It does take minimal investment in some permanent seal-able
containers.

I could talk about this all day but I won't.  ;)  Minnesota really provides
great opportunities to invest in local businesses and farmers from the
community.