When I was a child the only time people were “going green” was on St. Patrick’s Day, now it’s a worldwide revolution. Remember when you used to go to McDonalds and get a Big Mac in a styrofoam container? Forget the dangers of Styrofoam, now it’s taboo if you even have a Big Mac, thanks to the excess in fats and sodium. It’s amazing how much changed in one generation, how knowledge equals power and how not only did we learn how to better take care of ourselves, but our planet as well. Did you know over 46% of households use organic milk opposed to conventional milk as per a USDA study? This little statistic says that folks are reading, learning, and making changes that best suit their family. Personally, we still use conventional milk (I say this as I hang my head down in shame). Initially it was the cost, now I’m not sure why we don’t make the change. Sometimes I think “am I condemning my twins to some horrible adult ailment because of this?”. I should know better, right? Seriously, I live in New York City, where not only do people “go green”, but take it to the extreme and live freegan lifestyles (google it, it’s worth it). I try to go green, I do. I recycle, I try to eat as many whole foods as possible, I don’t smoke, I barely drink, and I try to walk a mile a day minimum. I never litter, Joscelyn Ramos Campbell executive editor joscelyn@multiplicitymag.com
I use energy efficient appliances and I don’t even leave the water running when I brush my teeth. But it’s a challenge to make all the changes that are possible to be truly green. I don’t foresee me ever growing my own food or eating in only farm-to-table restaurants. I don’t see myself switching to organic milk yet, or using only grain fed meats. Yes, I know, many of you are cringing reading this, but I’m just being honest. (Still love me?) I wonder if the next generation will continue on this path of energy efficiency, green living, and healthier lifestyles? I wonder if these changes will truly save the planet? I hope so for my great, great grandkids’ sake. Then again, I think by then their life will resemble more of the Jetsons than how we live now. Geez, I hope so. I always wanted a Foodarackacycle...I hope they have one! This season’s issue is all about just this topic, green living. Families around the globe are making huge changes to improve themselves and their families. Do you make an effort? How does your family “go green”? This discussion will continue on our Facebook page and in our BigTent forums. We invite you to take part, even if just to see what others are doing. Good luck in your efforts and keep up the good work.
Talitha A. McGuinness creative director talitha@multiplicitymag.com
Natalie Diaz founder/publisher natalie@multiplicitymag.com
Multiplicity is published as a digital magazine four times per year. Multiplicity cannot assume responsibility of statements made by advertisers. In addition, though handpicked and carefully reviewed, Multiplicity cannot guarantee the accuracy of editorial pieces. No portion in whole or in part of this publication may be reproduced without express written consent from the publisher.
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