2025: Taking Care of my Little Piece of Earth

By Cheryl Ryan

Special note: Unfortunately, due to a glitch, or worse yet, user error, I’ve lost my entire auto email list!! Such a bummer! I’ve entered those I know were following, but it’s only a fraction of those that were there. If you know anybody who was following or might like to follow, tell them to re-sign up on this website pop-up. Thanks so much.

2025

It’s a new year, and I’m renewing my commitment to care for my little piece of this earth. I know, I know, if you’ve been here for a while, you’ve heard this before. But little by little, I am making changes. I promise!

Recently, I’ve seen some cool companies and newsletters that have caught my eye. One is Ridwell. It’s a paid service that costs as low as $14 per month and picks up recyclables from your doorstep. They take typical plastic, multi-layer plastic, paper, glass, batteries and more. Once picked up, they are delivered directly to places where those materials are repurposed for newly created products. I’m still on the waiting list, so if any of my neighbors are reading this, please sign up so that they know there is enough interest to serve our area. I saw their cans on stoops all over Oakland the last time I visited. It would be cool for apartment and townhouse communities to share a subscription, creating a recycling community.

I’m now subscribing to One5c, a free, informed newsletter about the consequences of our actions on the environment. Going deep into the perils of our impact on Earth can be overwhelming, so you can go as deep as you want. What I like about this newsletter is that if you want to start small, there are articles like ordering eco-friendly toilet paper brands (hint: the winner was whogivesacrap.com). Or if you’re in the market for a new puffer jacket, they describe what is the most eco-friendly solution. I was surprised. I just ordered my first box of ‘Who Gives A Crap’ TP and will report back.

Composting Shouldn’t Be This Hard

I continue to struggle with my home composting situation, especially in winter. I’ve been using an under-sink receptacle for my compostable kitchen scraps. It may be too large because I fill it up over a couple of days, and by the time I take it outside, it’s liquid and disgusting. I don’t take it out daily during winter because it’s cold, and there is less yard waste in our bin, so pouring it directly into an empty bin will make it even more filthy. So, I’m trying a new plan. I’m trying a tumble composter near the door. I got it for free at the library a couple of years ago. I’ve shredded some paper, added dry leaves and plants along with the scraps, and give it a tumble whenever I add more. I’ll let you know how that works. But if anyone has a proven system, please share it with us!

I’m also starting my search for a whole-house water filtration system. When I searched EWG.org for our local water quality, it was no surprise for me to find that we have exceedingly high traces of Chlorine. I can taste it with every sip. We already have a filtration system for our fridge, but I’m interested in a whole-house filter that can also filter our shower and baths. I may find that it’s easier and perhaps cheaper to add devices directly to the faucets. I’ll let you know what I find as I search. 

I’m hoping to make some fundamental changes by Earth Day this year. As always, please share any Earth-loving tips that have worked for you.