Self Defence


 

Given the grave crises that beset the world, the widespread violence, the ever-increasing poverty and environmental decline, and given the causes of those crises in our self-centred activities and fragmented minds, it is clear that conventional lines of outward action cannot reverse the tidal wave of sorrow and destruction.

We sense the importance of the revolution in consciousness to which Krishnamurti pointed, which seems to be the only approach that has hope of bringing about a new society.

(S Lloyd Williams)
 

Consumption

 If we continue to use up the earths resources they will eventually be depleted. 
Present rates of consumption cannot be maintained.
The Western world already takes more than its fair share. 

 Animals are driven to extinction because of our greed for wood, fossil fuels and land for feeding cows.

Third world countries struggle to compete in the global market, and their people go hungry.

Sustainable development

Sustainable development means thinking long-term.
 If something is sustainable it can keep going, it is continuous, long-term.

It means that we must progress as a human race whilst conserving earth’s resources.
We must ensure everyone has access to food, water and shelter – both people and animals.
And we must ensure there will be enough left for future generations.

What can you do?

Recycle, conserve, buy sensibly, explore alternative technology and eco options.

For example: when buying furniture make sure it was produced from sustainably-harvested wood.
Check for a FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) label:

http://www.fsc.org/

There are sustainable choices available if you care to investigate the possibilities. 


 Eco tips

Here are some eco tips:

  1. Appliances
    - Do not leave electrical appliances on standby - switch them off at the mains
    - Set your computer to activate 'sleep mode' rather than screensaver when inactive
    - Switch off lights when you leave a room
    - Buy 'energy efficient' products
    - Use low-energy light bulbs
    - Where possible use the economy cycle on the dishwasher or washing machine
    - Save hot washes for occasional stubborn stains
    - Wash up by hand
    -     Chop and mix foods by hand, instead of using an electric mixer
    - Use your microwave more and your oven less, it uses much less energy
     

  2. General
    - Re-use, repair, recycle
    -     Dry your clothes on a washing line rather than a tumble drier where possible
    -     Boil the amount of water you need for one cup of tea, rather than half a kettle full
    -     Use paper that has been printed on one side only for notes and shopping lists
    - Collect rainwater for watering plants
    - Wash the car with a bucket and sponge not a hose pipe


 Links
For daily eco tips by e-mail:

 http://www.foe.co.uk/living/tips/

 


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Page created 20 January 1999