5 Mar 2019 (ECM Publishers) : When we think about the world and the global issues we have with the warming seas, deforestation, mass consumption of natural resources, etc. … it all feels very overwhelming.

One may feel that the problems are too large to do anything about, or feel that it is too late to make a difference – but that is not true. There are many things we can do individually that will have a positive impact on the planet. Let’s focus more locally, on our wonderful cities of Richfield and Bloomington.

In 2018, free organics recycling programs started in both Richfield and Bloomington. Why is composting organic matter important? Because when food is tossed into the garbage, it is brought to the garbage dump and incinerated, which produces methane.

Methane absorbs the sun’s heat and heats the atmosphere, adding to the overall problem. Composted organic material, however, will be turned into soil and used to benefit the community overall, without negative effects on the planet.

Take, for instance, local co-ops. We are so fortunate to have those types of grocery stores in the area to offer an impressive variety of natural and organic foods, most with a strong emphasis on providing locally-farmed produce. Organically-farmed produce is sustainably grown, without artificial pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs.

Sustainable farming is easily summed up as farming that is healthy on the land (it does not deplete the soil of nutrients), it’s humane to livestock and it supports the local communities.

These co-ops are also wonderful because they offer bulk food sections. Buying in bulk and purchasing package-free items ultimately reduces waste. In addition to the bulk food sections, you can also purchase dish soap, laundry detergent, hand lotion, shampoo/conditioner and more, all in bulk.

Us Richfielders are also so lucky to have farmers markets both in the summer (at Veterans Park) and in the winter (at the Richfield Community Center). The market offers a variety of locally-grown produce, meats, cheeses, and other products that are available right at our fingertips, all under one roof.

Often there is even entertainment and music of sorts to enjoy while supporting local makers. Check out the Bloomington farmers market calendar at bloomingtonmn.gov/market/bloomington-farmers-market.

We are also fortunate to have fantastic thrift shops – those with fair prices and variety. Shopping secondhand overall reduces pollution. Plus, Arc’s Value Village supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, so shopping there has a dual benefit.

Other small steps that you can take to reduce your carbon footprint and promote a healthy city, state and world:

• Shop with reusable bags and use reusable water bottles, not single-use plastic;

• Turn off the lights when you aren’t using them

• Walk/bike instead of drive when possible

• Reduce your intake of beef (or purchase grass-fed)

• Carpool or take public transportation;

• Wash your plastic baggies and reuse them over and over or switch to glass storage

• Grow your own food

• Preserve your own food

• Use bamboo toothbrushes

• Only use sustainable palm oil products

• Recycle and reuse

• Educate others on what they can do to help the environment

• Vote for representatives that share your views on the climate and renewable energy

• As stated above, shop locally, organically and package-free.

Organic recycling locations for Richfield can be found at richfieldmn.gov/around-town/wood-lake-nature-center/organics-recycling.

Organic recycling locations for Bloomington can be found at bloomingtonmn.gov/mnt/organics-drop.