This post is about me, Ginette…
More specifically–it’s about me celebrating ‘World Environment Day’.
This year’s theme, “Seven Billion Dream. One Planet. Consume with Care” resonates with me. I’m a late blooming nature-lover, born and raised in a big city, and it wasn’t until my Adirondack 46ers quest that I got closer to nature. On each outing in the mountains, I discover the beauty we call “Mother Earth.”
“There is hope if people will begin to awaken that spiritual part of themselves…that heartfelt knowledge that we are caretakers of this planet.” – Brooke Medicine Eagle
On this day of awareness when environmental issues are called to attention, and responsible management of our natural resources promoted, I reflect on my and my family’s contribution to preserving our surroundings.
I’m not an activist, I haven’t reached my full bloom yet!
Sure, we practice the 3R’s; reuse, reduce, recycle. Yet, the importance of preserving the ecological and environmental balance is sometimes lost on me. And now as Gord and I prepare for our round-the-world trip and eventual downsizing of our home, I’m reminded of how much stuff we’ve accumulated over the years. The concept of travelling with all our needs for one-year stuffed in our backpack makes me realise how much unnecessary stuff we own–things to make our daily lives more enjoyable but rarely used.
“Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.” – Mahatma Gandhi
With a daughter whose degree is in biodiversity and environmental science, I’ve had many discussions (lectures) on the fragile ecosystems, resources reaching the tipping points of depletion and the importance of preserving our planet’s biodiversity.
Changing my consumption patterns is not easy. I’m constantly chided for not using reusable bags at the grocery store. Each small steps, practices and decisions I make, affect the natural environment I love to discover.
I pledge to keep our natural environment green and unpolluted by spending more time contributing, conserving and consuming less. And as I strive for a deeper understanding of the issues our planet faces, I’ll share my journey toward a sustainable way of life, showing this world is worth conserving and protecting.
I encourage you, my friends, family and fellow bloggers to do the same.
What will you pledge today for mother nature?
Ginette
White Postcards 
Good for you Ginette. A worthy pledge and great photos to back it up. –Curt
Thanks Curt, it means a lot coming from you–you’re no slouch when it comes to environmental activism and it’s people like you that motivate me to do more.
It’s the only way lasting change ever happens, one person at a time until a critical mass is reached. –Curt
Ginette,
I have always tried to make a conscious effort to be respectful and thoughtful of our environment. Ever since I was a small boy and our made family trips tot he Adirondacks and the White Mountains I have had a total affection with the outdoors/nature. Do I always succeed at being thoughtful, no. I however try to correct my thoughtlessness..
Keep the adventures coming!
Joe
Joe, sounds like you have wonderful childhood memories that influence who you are today–a caring person looking out for the environment–though not always easy, an attitude I respect!
Thank you! As a matter of fact I’ll be headed to the Adirondacks on Tuesday. Going to test paddle some very light weight canoes.
If you guys ever make it back to the Finger Lakes let me know. Would love to meetup over some very awesome wine.
Enjoy your day canoeing in the Adirondacks! Meeting up over great wine sounds wonderful, we’ll definitely make it back to the Finger Lakes and will get in touch when we do:)
I had a great time in the Dack’s yesterday. The sun shined, the rain poured, the thunder roared, the lightning flashed, the sun shine returned and I paddled some really awesome canoes. Yes let me know if you return to the FGLK’s… Raising my glass!
Joe