One of the most rewarding community pursuits I’ve been involved with the past few years is helping with sustainability issues at my local church. It includes everything from repurposing used altar candles to getting rid of Styrofoam cups to planning activities for Earth Day events.
It’s been fulfilling, but the hardest task is to get volunteer participation. I think that’s because the prospect of making the earth a greener place is a daunting one. But with every overwhelming task, taking a first step, even if it’s a small one, is key.
No one is going to solve issues like global warming, maintaining water quality and extending tree canopies on their own. But if we each commit to doing one thing, however simple, all of our actions could add up to something huge.
And that one simple thing can truly be a small one. It’s just turning off the lights when you move from one room to the next, walking instead of driving from one end of the strip mall to the other and keeping your tires properly inflated (which reduces fuel consumption and extends the life of the tire). These are all things I’ve been guilty of in the past.
And if you want to go a little further, you can create a pollinator garden, plant a tree and compost fruit and vegetable scraps, coffee grounds, nut shells, fruit pits and bottle corks—composting makes a natural fertilizer that enriches soil.
In this spirit, we present to you our Conservation Issue. We take a look at hydroponics and urban forestry across Central Florida, theme park waste reduction and electronic recycling programs. Plus, Dr. Bahiyyah Maroon, Goodwill’s new vice president of mission impact, teaches us how to shop sustainably and with purpose—and introduces us to her favorite Goodwill find.
In our Food & Drink section, Brendan O’Connor discusses how to eat seasonally. By buying local, in-season produce, we support Florida’s farmers, reduce our carbon footprints and save money. It’s a win-win-win. Be sure to take a look at his seasonal dish ideas—you’ll want to pin them to your idea board like I did.
Also, with May comes our annual Women of the Year honorees. This year, we’ve chosen 21 women who come from all walks of life and are a true force in making our community a better place. Our honorees were nominated by their peers, and we’re fortunate to have such an esteemed group in our city.
When you’re out and about, take time to get lost in the beauty of nature, and the beauty of each other. There’s so much to be thankful for.
JENNIFER MCKEE • ORLANDO MAGAZINE EDITOR
jennifer.mckee@orlandomagazine.com