“We have a moral responsibility to protect the earth and ensure that our children and grandchildren have a healthy and sustainable environment in which to live.”-Jim Clyburn, American Congressman

I do believe what we leave behind might be left for the next generation to clean up. I am fortunate to live in a cooperative housing building in the Boyle Street area that is really big into recycling, waste management, gardening, and, most recently, composting.

We have many committees in my building that deal with the everyday running of the co-op and we even have a gardening committee! The members of the group encourage and teach what I term “Smart Gardening” – purchasing rain barrels, making up watering schedules, and looking at all sustainable ways to keep our building not only beautiful, but also eco-friendly.

The volunteers on the committee often give and post information on sustainable living in an encouraging way. I find it becomes a habit! I have become very educated in disposal and recycling. I am now starting to compost.

One of the most beautiful things about our building is to see the gardening beds blooming with flowers, herbs, and vegetables in the growing season. This great group has even built accessible garden plots so the mobility-challenged members can enjoy gardening. The volunteers also often give enthusiastic, informative presentations.

A lot of viable information can be found at the City of Edmonton website (“edmonton.ca“https://www.edmonton.ca) by looking up the Green Living Guide.

Leaving a better earth for the next generation is one of the best things to do that I can think of.