Hello everyone! One way to brighten your days is to take on a new challenge! For 2022, the Green Initiatives Committee has developed a series of monthly challenges to help us all make some simple changes for a greener lifestyle. We hope some of our ideas interest you, because lots of us making small changes adds up to a BIG difference.
So please look for the new article and challenges each month in the Pulse.
Ahhhh the first signs of spring are in the air (hopefully), and with the arrival of spring comes that itchy feeling to get some spring cleaning done!
This is that time of year where we notice the dust, the clutter, and the stifling air in our homes more than ever. After a winter of being cooped up inside, windows shut, and stuff from the holiday season piling up, we just get the urge to purge! So, this spring cleaning season your Green Initiatives Committee is here to offer up some challenges to get the ball rolling and get you inspired for a fresh spring feeling.
Challenge 1: Sort through your clutter and organize it so it is ready for the community clean up on May 1st! The community clean up is a great way to get all that extra stuff you have been hanging onto donated or recycled. Acceptable items to bring to the event are: organics, usual items for donation (think clothing, books, toys etc), electronics, mattress recycling, metal recycling, compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs for recycling, car seats, and garbage. Unacceptable items include hazardous waste, large appliances, and commercial waste. Keep your eye out for details regarding the upcoming event so you are ready to go.
Challenge 2: Create an inventory of your belongings to see what you have not used, worn, or consumed in the last year. Are some items you are not using in great condition? Share them on the MPCA Buy/Sell/Trade Facebook group.
Tip: go into your closet and flip all the hangers around, and then when you wear an item and it goes back into the closet, place the hanger in the opposite direction. You will quickly see what clothing items rarely get used, and if they are in good shape, donate or sell them and stick to using your capsule wardrobe.
Challenge 3: Soon Mount Pleasant will have its very own community pantry (stay tuned for details coming out very soon!). So while in the spirit of spring cleaning, shop for non-perishable food items in your pantry that you can donate to the community.
Challenge 4: Clear out the dust bunnies, open the windows and spruce up your home with some all natural cleaners.
A recipe for All Purpose Natural Cleaner: one part distilled vinegar, one part water, aromatics (lemon rind, rosemary sprigs or, if comfortable, your favourite essential oils). Combine, pour into a spray bottle and shake. Use around the house to clean surfaces, wipe away wall smudges, and generally freshen up any space – chemical free!
While the new year is the time to create intentions and make resolutions, it is really the start of spring when we start to make meaningful changes in our habits. That makes spring the perfect time to start incorporating small everyday sustainable choices into your lifestyle.
SAVE THE DATE: Community Clean Up Event May 1st 9am-2pm
If you want to get involved and be a part of making Mount Pleasant a greener community, we would love to have you join the committee. Please email green@mpca.ca for more information or if you have any questions. As well, please check out our Mount Pleasant Green Initiatives Group on Facebook! You can find us on the Mount Pleasant Community Association page. The Facebook group is a great place to share your completed challenges and check in to see what others are doing.
Happy spring cleaning,
The MPCA Green Initiatives Committee
