Why extreme minimalism?

 Sustainable 

Living 

Blog Post 

7 ways to a more sustainable future

December 1, 2023

By Mallory Jones

This day and age we have become aware of our dire need to protect the earth. We can’t flip through social media without coming across a post about how the oceans are filling with plastic, how fast fashion is creating more waste and over production than ever and the idea of a “food desert” becoming common knowledge and a topic discussed in most households. As young families and people living in these food deserts, we are seeking other ways of living that don’t cause so much harm to our world. We are seeking ways of living that don’t support the corruption of our earth. Minimalism has been a huge movement as of late, where young millennials choose not to take out a mortgage. They choose not to follow the American dream and fill up a big house and two car garages full of stuff. Within these alternative lifestyles there is a return to the simplicity of growing our own food. Having a lack of fresh food available causes a ripple effect that affects every aspect of life. When schools support sweet treats and call a square meal a thing that only turns to sugar in the body, we are headed towards destruction. What can we as young families do in our area to support change?

1. Join a membership co-op in your local area that supports locally grown foods and profits go directly to the farmers. 

2. Choose to participate in a community garden in your area or start one. (This is a great activity to do with kids or the whole family)

3. Set goals for you and your family. (This can be as simple as using less plastic, never using to go containers or always using your own water bottle) (Tip: think baby steps)

4. Meditate on your own beliefs about the world, about life and what you want to leave behind. 

5. Consider going to farmers markets and throwing events there to bring more traction to the vendors there. 

6. Practice what you preach (Grow something!) Even if it’s a small planter box of herbs on a windowsill, anything you can grow yourself is worthy of your time. 

7. Lastly, know your resources. You can look up your Agriculture Extension Group in your area with valuable resources such as planting times in your zone, events and ways to get more involved. 

With all these tips in mind, you and your family will be well on your way to doing your part to make the world a more sustainable place. Not only will it benefit you and your lifestyle but generations to come.