Introduction Growing up in South Africa, I was fortunate to have a deep connection to the natural world from an early age. There was nothing quite like the excitement of embarking on a safari and encountering magnificent animals in their natural environment. Nature's breathtaking beauty and power left an indelible impression on me, fostering a sense of wonder and gratitude that has remained with me. As I lay beneath the starlit sky and listened to the sounds of the wilderness, I felt an intense connection to our planet. I understood that we are not separate from nature but an integral part of it. As I got older, my connection to the natural world grew stronger, leading me to recognize the significance of living sustainably and nurturing the planet that supports us. However, as I became more knowledgeable about the environment, I became increasingly aware of the darker aspects of our relationship with nature. I was particularly struck by the prevalence of environmental racism, a form of institutional racism that disproportionately impacts communities of color by situating landfills, incinerators, and hazardous waste disposal sites in their neighborhoods. Witnessing the catastrophic effects of this discrimination ignited a passion within me. Environmental justice is a dynamic concept that has assumed unique meanings in different parts of the world, and South Africa is no exception. The idea, which originated in the United States 50 years ago in response to the discriminatory practices identified by Black communities as "environmental racism," made its way to South Africa during a conference of environmental activists in 1992. At the time, combating environmental racism was considered essential to democratization, particularly between 1992 and 1994. Today, however, a form of environmental racism persists, as most Black South Africans continue to reside on the most degraded land, in the most polluted neighborhoods near coal-fired power plants, steel mills, incinerators, and waste sites. Many lack access to clean air, water, and essential services. Climate change exacerbates these issues, with devastating consequences for people experiencing poverty and the working class, as evidenced by soaring food prices, crop failures, and water scarcity. As an environmental journalist, I have dedicated my career to covering stories about global warming, ecological stewardship, and the fight for environmental justice. Over my 30-year career, I have had the privilege of meeting and interviewing individuals worldwide working to protect the environment and combat environmental racism. I have visited communities affected by climate change, from rising sea levels to devastating wildfires, witnessing firsthand the impact of our changing climate on vulnerable populations. To raise awareness about these pressing issues, I have reported on innovative technologies that can help reduce our carbon footprint, the significance of sustainable agriculture and conservation, and the inspiring endeavors of local activists and national governments to address environmental injustice. Yet, despite the many challenges we face, I remain hopeful. I have seen the power of individuals and communities to enact positive change. "Eco-Nomical" reflects my passion for journalism and commitment to the environment. I hope my journey inspires you in some way. Remember, Rome was not built in a day. Change takes time! It's a process. Ralph Waldo Emerson's famous quote, "Life is a journey, not a destination," encapsulates the mindset necessary for pursuing a sustainable lifestyle in a world that often promotes the opposite. It's not about being perfect. But it is about taking action and owning up to the realities of the waste we are creating and what we can do about it. I will share my approach to sustainability and mindful living throughout this book. At its core, it's about understanding your impact on the world. It's the connection I refer to above and in Chapter 1. On my website, The Eco Hub, I created a set of criteria for suggesting brands or products. It's not perfect, but it gives you a guideline. You can use these as you see fit. Maybe one is more important than the other to you. Over the years, these have aided me in navigating the challenging world of living with less waste! Or trying to, at the very least. My Ethical Criteria 1. What is the item/product made from? Its Fabrics or materials. In the case of fashion, it will be cotton, linen, hemp, jute, modal, linen, any natural fiber, and synthetics like nylon, spandex, recycled plastic, etc. With sustainable fashion, understanding certifications can help in making decisions when shopping. They're not perfect, but they are a great start. We'll jump into certifications in each chapter. For non-fashion items, we look at materials like wood, steel, plastic, gold, etc., how they are manufactured, and the resource impact. How much water is used? Chemicals? Etc. For skincare, are the ingredients sustainable? 2. How is it sourced? You're probably familiar with #whomademyclotyes. Apply it to everything you buy!! Do you know where it comes from? Is it being shipped across the ocean to get to you? Child labor and modern-day slavery are issues here. 2023 marks the 10th anniversary of the Rana Plaza collapse, where 1,134 garment workers died tragically. Imagine if that happened in New York or Toronto. We have to care about the people who make the things we buy. Have you ever tried to darn a sock? It's not easy! Where beauty products are concerned, we ask where the ingredients come from. 3. What's the company's Corporate Responsibility ? This is everything else. Does the brand have B Corp Certification or maintain carbon-neutral status? Do they support charitable causes? How have they minimized waste and pursued other methods to close the loop? Consider better packaging, energy conservation practices, and clearly defined emission reduction goals. 4. How long will the item last? The longevity of products is essential when purchasing, as it contributes significantly to their overall sustainability and value. Products with a longer lifespan help minimize waste and reduce the need for frequent replacements, conserving resources and lowering the environmental footprint. In addition, high-quality materials and thoughtful design often achieve durability, ensuring the product can withstand regular use and maintain its functionality over time. In the case of reusable items, such as cleaning cloths or glass containers, this translates to a reduced reliance on disposable alternatives, further decreasing waste generation. Additionally, products that maintain their effectiveness for an extended period are more cost-efficient for consumers, as they won't need to be replaced as frequently. Phew! That's A LOT for the average person to take in! I know! But it's the reality of where we are right now! So let's try and fix it. The suggestions above are based on my personal experiences and the success stories of numerous people I've encountered on this journey. By the end of this book, you'll be empowered with the knowledge to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly life while being mindful of the stuff you use daily. Plus, with my cost breakdowns comparing unsustainable items to sustainable alternatives, you'll be amazed by the significant savings you can achieve by going green. Keep a look out for this symbol. Excerpted from Creating a Sustainable House by Candice Batista All rights reserved by the original copyright owners. Excerpts are provided for display purposes only and may not be reproduced, reprinted or distributed without the written permission of the publisher.
