Wendy Long
10/31/2023 1:42 PM
I think everyone should plant trees that they will not be able to enjoy. They are gifts to future generations.
Cleveland Clinic Sustainability Feed
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Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.
To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?
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Thomas Saad 11/01/2023 5:40 AMWe've only just begun! We have to keep our focus on the long term Sustainable Goals. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONLand SinksHow is planting trees good for your mental, physical, and spiritual health?
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REFLECTION QUESTIONIndustryWhat do you want to prioritize over material 'stuff' in your own life?
Emily Katzin 10/31/2023 12:54 PMMy husband and I have tried being very thoughtful about what items we bring into our home. It has been really difficult sometimes when we just want to "get something done", but realize it is best to be patient and find the right piece of furniture, art, etc. Since we have been very selective about items we buy, it feels easier to spend on vacations, experiences, and items we need for the house when we do find the right ones. We've also prioritized our health by spending more on healthy food, which feels like preventative care and a good investment. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONLand SinksHow is planting trees good for your mental, physical, and spiritual health?
Emily Katzin 10/31/2023 12:51 PMIt has been so rewarding to plant trees in our yard and see birds landing in them. It feels great to provide shelter or a place of respite for local wildlife. We can't wait until we get to see them bloom next spring for the first time, and to see other animals benefitting from flowers, seeds, and fruit they produce. It feels like giving back in a small way for all the joy nature brings me. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONLand SinksAs you learn more about the scope and seriousness of the environmental challenges we face, what impact does that have on your thinking and actions? What are the parts that feel overwhelming? What parts help you feel hopeful?
Emily Katzin 10/31/2023 12:48 PMI was reading about native trees and forests to help me select which trees I wanted to plant in my backyard. We unfortunately lost a few due to pests and a storm. It was overwhelming to try and find trees that were native, the right size we wanted, and that were pest resistant. It seems like so many trees have threats now, especially as more invasive species make their way to our region. I was hopeful that there were some native trees I had never heard of that were hardy, and it made me happy to select those to plant since they are uncommon and hopefully provide some unique benefits to wildlife in the area.-
Kerry Keck 10/31/2023 2:17 PMEmily,you may not be familiar with this but there is a wonderful resource for ALL states through the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower center. Here for example is their list of recommended natives, limited to trees (you can search for flowers and grasses also) https://www.wildflower.org/plants/combo.php?fromsearch=true&distribution=&habit=habit_tree&duration=
Finding natives is indeed the bigger problem. You might contact the Native Plant Society of Northeast Ohio to see if they can recommend nurseries specializing in plants native to your area.
https://nativeplantsocietyneo.squarespace.com/
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REFLECTION QUESTIONIndustryHow do you address your own feelings of concern, fear or despair about climate change?
Wendy Long 10/31/2023 6:39 AMIt is overwhelming to think about climate change and our impact to this planet. You have to continually look for solutions; big and small.
I join these Ecochallenges to learn changes that I can make. I take small steps knowing that I can make a difference.-
Emily Katzin 10/31/2023 12:55 PMThat's great to hear! It is so important to remind ourselves what is in our control and celebrate the impacts we make with our efforts, even if they feel small. They can definitely add up if more people do them!
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REFLECTION QUESTIONElectricityGeothermal energy is reliable, abundant, and efficient. Project Drawdown states that public investment will play a crucial role in its expansion. In what ways (i.e. with money, time, advocacy) can you invest in geothermal energy?
Wendy Long 10/31/2023 6:26 AMI can invest in companies that are expanding the use of geothermal energy and look into it when I need to replace my AC. -
REFLECTION QUESTIONCoastal, Ocean, and Engineered SinksCan biochar provide additional benefits besides sequestering carbon?
Wendy Long 10/31/2023 5:58 AMYes, it enriches soil. I'm going to try it in my garden, in the spring. -
Thomas Saad 10/31/2023 3:59 AMPlease remember one thing ...
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REFLECTION QUESTIONElectricityChanging lightbulbs is an excellent first step toward energy efficiency! What's next for you?
