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In reply to the discussion: What modern conveniences are the least we need? [View all]Niagara
(11,455 posts)166. Hi MerryBlooms!
I do run the fully loaded dishwasher instead of washing by hand due to the fact that 1. A dishwasher uses less energy and water compared to hand washing. 2. Dishes and utensils should be sanitized in 160F water, a human hand can't handle that temperature. I always try to wash a full load of laundry as well, but since I have a cat that sometimes has a vomiting episode, sometimes I have to wash the couch cover and blankets without it being on a full load. Since we upgraded to a front load washer several years ago, we use a great deal less of laundry soap.
I buy new clothes and shoes. I wear them until they're not fit to wear anymore. This winter, I had to have help throwing away torn, falling apart parka that was about 23 or 24 years old. By help, I mean that SO had to throw it away for me.
I purchased a brand new car in 2003 and drove that until it wasn't repairable anymore in 2018. I then purchased a used older vehicle. I have regular maintenance done on all my vehicles like oil change, proper PSI in tires, air filter, spark plugs and that sort of thing. I always keep my vehicle clean as well.
A high amount of my neighbors have their lawn sprayed. I refuse to put chemicals on my lawn which means the honey bees like my lawn cover. I've been feeding the local hummingbirds for a few years now and I make the food for them. I also use non-toxic cleaners in my home, although sometimes I have to break out the tougher cleaners for tougher cleaning jobs.
I like to support my local farmer's by stopping by the Farmer's Market on Saturdays. We don't generally waste our food and eat leftovers frequently.
I don't run the water while shaving my legs or brushing my teeth.
I've been using reusable bags at the market and grocery store since before plastic bags were banned in my state.
My SO is awful about leaving lights on in the house when a room in not in use. It seems like I'm always right behind him turning off the lights.
I'm glad that you rattled on, it actually inspired me to list things that I already do.
Hoping that you a nice evening as well.
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Though most people hate this idea, one of the best things you can do for the environment
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#1
In my neighborhood, we have volunteers who adopt garden spaces around town. I have a large
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#7
Same here. My privacy and ability to shape my living areas are everything to me.
BlackSkimmer
Jul 2023
#26
Me, too. I could never live like that. In addition to the open space, there's the noise
Vinca
Jul 2023
#69
I would not mind apartment living, except for the inconsiderate neighbors
Trailrider1951
Jul 2023
#30
My brother and his family live in a rural area. So does my sister and her family.
hunter
Jul 2023
#58
Only if cigarette smoking and weed smoking were prohibited 100% with zero exceptions.
Oopsie Daisy
Jul 2023
#31
Yes. The only time I lived in an apartment was in college. I HATED smelling the smoke.
BlackSkimmer
Jul 2023
#49
Excellent points. I hadn't even considered the fire hazard associated with smoking.
Oopsie Daisy
Jul 2023
#63
I've noticed that too. I do not believe that the prohibitions are strictly or effectively enforced.
Oopsie Daisy
Jul 2023
#138
They are where I live. What is your experience that makes you think they aren't?
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#139
Well, in my experience, I don't "think they aren't," I know for a fact that they aren't.
Oopsie Daisy
Jul 2023
#142
As I said below, maybe people just suck a lot more in other places than where I live.
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#145
Sounds like a nice exclusive arrangement. I'm glad you're enjoying it and are happy there. 👍
Oopsie Daisy
Jul 2023
#147
Not exclusive price-wise. Costs are moderate to low for the area. But yes, we can
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#148
It would be very difficult for much of the country (including my state of CO) to give up cars
hlthe2b
Jul 2023
#19
Yeah and now plastic recycling is being identified as a source of microplastics in the water
Shermann
Jul 2023
#51
Sadly, I think this is true. Even this thread, which began as a request for ideas of what
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#40
It's nearly impossible for an affluent person to reduce their environmental footprint.
hunter
Jul 2023
#72
I find this thread sad. We're facing an extinction event. You asked a good question.
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#112
I am disturbed about the ravaged climate we're leaving to the next generation.
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#140
Some of us lived in apartments for years before we bought our detached housing.
NutmegYankee
Jul 2023
#159
As I said to you above, I fully understand others might not like the same things I do.
Scrivener7
Jul 2023
#170
Do Americans giving up modern conveniences offset growth in China and India?
Showbizkid
Jul 2023
#158