Use Less Stuff

STUFF. Americans are obsessed with it. In fact, the late comedian George Carlin performed a five minute stand-up routine about this topic which is quite funny. Funny - that is - until you realize how serious the situation has become. In reality, our obsession with stuff is harming the planet.

   When did this obsession with stuff begin? It began after World War II when society was encouraged to adopt aggressive spending habits in order to stimulate the economy. And while this may have solved one problem, it created another. America’s obsession with stuff lead to overconsumption and overconsumption lead to the production of more waste. This is a problem that still exists today.

   In order to reduce waste, Americans need to use less stuff. This can be achieved by distinguishing between wants” and “needs” and acting accordingly. This can be further accomplished by adopting simple habits such as using a refillable water bottle, shopping with a reusable tote bag, and saying “no” to single use products. 

   Reducing waste is easy when you learn to “use less stuff.” Refer to the list at right for more tips on this topic, or visit www.use-less-stuff.com.

Green Tips:
Use a refillable water bottle                   Shop with a reusable tote bag
Pack a zero-waste lunch                        Avoid excess packaging
Compost food waste

RREAP Recieves Funding for 2017

The Green Team is pleased to announce that the USDA Rural Utilities Administration has approved grant funding in the amount of $22,910.00 for the Rural Recycling Education & Awareness Program (RREAP) during the 2017 - 2018 grant year. These funds will allow RREAP to continue providing  environmental educational services to the county’s rural communities.

  I would like to thank Green Team Director  Lou Vega, the Mahoning County Commissioners, and the entire Green TeamTeam staff for their continued support. I would also like to thank all of the wonderful Mahoning County residents who have helped make this program a success.

Together we are making a difference!

American Recycles Day

    America Recycles Day (ARD) is  observed on November 15 and is the only nationally recognized day dedicated to encouraging Americans to recycle and buy recycled products.

    When material is recycled it becomes new again. Plastic bottles can become become carpet or playground equipment. Glass bottles and jars may be recycled into new containers or glassphalt.

   On America Recycles Day, take the pledge.   Learn - find out which materials are collected for recycling in your community. Act -reduce personal waste by recycling.  Share - in the next month, encourage one family member or one friend to begin recycling at home or at work.

  For more information about this subject, visit americarecyclesday.org.

Attention Fall Planters:

Take used nursery pot and flats to Lowe's, Home Depot or River's Bend Farm.  the pots will be sterilized for re-use.

Canfield Fair Winner

One lucky person in Youngstown won't have to worry about excess leaves this year. The Green Team is proud to announce that Rich Evick won our Canfield Fair drawing for the 
Earth Machine backyard compost bin. 
Congratulations Rich.
Enjoy!

Celebrate Green

There is no better time than the holidays to host a zero-waste party. In fact, considering the amount of over consumption that occurs between Thanksgiving and Christmas, it is the perfect time for this type of event. 

  You should begin planning your party one month in advance to give yourself ample time for preparations. Once you have chosen a date, send out electronic invitations  or post invites on social media. After you have received a head count, buy only the amount of food that you’ll need for the evening.  When possible, select locally sourced  options and foods that are in season.  Once you have determined your food menu, consider drinks. Purchase beverages in Earth-friendly, recyclable containers and always remember to forgo the bottled water. Instead, opt for a carafe of fruit-infused water that will taste as delicious as it looks. Of course you’ll want to serve that water in something special. The holidays are an ideal time to get out the crystal goblets along with your decorative china, cloth napkins, and festive table cloth. 

  At the end of the evening, ask your spouse or a friend to assist you with the clean-up. Ensuring that everything is in it’s proper place will give you  peace of mind and a  feeling of deep satisfaction in knowing that you have done something kind for the Earth.

Green Holiday Shopping Tips

• Start Early: Complete your shopping before the holiday rush. This will allow you more time to spend with family and friends.
• Shop With A Reusable tote bag: Prevent plastic  bags from entering the environment. This gesture will conserve natural resources and prevent pollution.
• Give the Gift of Experience: Purchase a gift pass for a local museum, zoo, or nature center. These activities will create memories that last a lifetime.
• Buy Presents that Support Conservation: Consider a wildlife adoption  package, native seeds with gardening tools,  or a backyard bird feeder with seed and a field guide. 

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Design-an-Ornament Contest