Stop 5 – the R’s of Waste Management

Being conscious of our daily choices is one way we can better care for God’s creation. We’ve all heard the phrase, “reduce, reuse, recycle.” What if we also “rethink” our consumption and “refuse” single use products? Could we “repair” what is broken? “Regift” what we don’t need? Let our food “rot” by composting? And “respect” God’s creation with our attention?

In the poem, The Summer Day, Mary Oliver sets an example for paying attention.

READ: John 12: 20-33

It’s amazing when you think about it: we human beings (especially those of us in the wealthier countries) have been thickening the blanket of pollution around the earth for the past two centuries, and mostly for 70 years or so – and here we are, living in the decade when major progress must be made. It’s both daunting and inspiring. We can harness these feelings – with the right mix of urgency, humility and courage; the willingness to act now, the openness to collaborate and learn from each other, and the foolishness to persevere through setbacks and false starts. The time is now – but this isn’t a sprint, it’s a marathon. Let’s pace ourselves by setting flexible, time bound goals.

God of yesterday, today, and tomorrow, thank you for bringing us to “this hour.” Help us to follow you, with poise and courage. Be with us when we feel troubled. Help us to trust in the seeds we plant, even and especially those whose fruit we may never see, whose harvest will bless generations to come. In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.

PLAN – Set Flexible Time-Bound Goals

• First, generate an overall list of potential actions. (See some resources below for inspirataion!)
• Second, start prioritizing and experimenting with deadlines: What do you want to do first, in the weeks or months ahead? Which are the bigger, longer term goals?
• Third, share your goals and thoughts with an accountability partner.

WALKING THE TALK

Check out these great resources for practicing the Rs!

• The Climate+Faith Link Sheet has LOTS of great suggestions
• Learn to Recycle Right from CuyahogaRecycles.org
• Consider composting. Here’s a good how to. Can’t compost at home? Rust Belt Riders just started a new drop off location in Brecksville!
• The University of Florida has a good explainer about 7 of the Rs
• Ready to donate or re-gift something you no longer need? Urge to Purge is a great resource for learning who takes what in Northeast Ohio!