Doug Scott from WCHU called our attention to The Compact, and wondered if there might be some interest in supporting the effort locally - thanks, Doug! This effort was covered in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune this week http://nc.startribune.com/blogs/kablog/. So many folks here in the Tompkins County region ARE very supportive of the tenets espoused by The Compact. If you haven't yet heard about The Compact, here's the "scoop":
A number of individuals have undertaken a personal challenge - which they have termed The Compact - to unplug themselves as much as possible from consumerism for calendar year 2008. The Compact has several aims: * To go beyond recycling in trying to counteract the negative global environmental and socioeconomic impacts of disposable consumer culture and to support local businesses, farms, etc. - a step that, we hope, inherits the revolutionary impulse of the Mayflower Compact. * To reduce clutter and waste in our homes (as in trash Compact-er). * To simplify our lives (as in Calm-pact). Compact members have agreed to follow two principles (see exceptions below) #1 Don't buy new products of any kind (from stores, websites, etc.). #2 Borrow, barter, or buy used. ** ** A few exceptions** - using the "fair and reasonable person" standard ( i.e., you'll know in your heart when you're rationalizing a violation): - food, drink, and necessary medicine (no elective treatments, like Botox) - - necessary cleaning products, but not equipment - socks and underwear (utilitarian--non-couture or ornamental) - pajamas for the children* ** Utilitarian services* (plumbers, electricians, auto mechanics, veterinarians, dog/house-sitters, fire/paramedics, dry cleaners, house cleaners, etc.) -- Support local and encourage used parts (rebuilt transmission, salvaged headlight unit, etc.)* ** Recreational services (massage, etc.) & *local artisanal items* are good sources for gifts, but should not be over-indulged in for personal gratification***Charitable contributions* are an even better source for gifts*** ** Plants and cut flowers* - Whenever possible, cultivate from free cuttings or seeds. Ok in extreme moderation when purchased from local businesses and again, within reason.*** ** Art supplies* - First line of attack: use SCRAP <http://www.scrap-sf.org/>. When absolutely necessary (for the professionals and talented amateurs in the group), purchase from local businesses.*** ** Magazines, newspapers, Netflix* - renewals only, no new subscriptions. Even better to consume online (or use Public Library resources).** ** Video rentals and downloadable music files* (non-material) -- freely shared and legal, please*_ _* - - - - - - - - For more information about The Compact: http://sfcompact.blogspot.com/ There is also a Yahoo group to join "The Compact" - it's currently at 8,821 members and growing. Subscribe: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Post messages to The Compact group: [EMAIL PROTECTED] _______________________________________________ RSS, archives, subscription & listserv information for: [email protected] http://lists.mutualaid.org/mailman/listinfo/sustainabletompkins free hosting by http://www.mutualaid.org
