Caring for God's Creation
Eco-Examen Prayer
St. Ignatius of Loyola developed a prayer method called Examen that helps us recall the day, noticing where God is active ad present in our lives. The Eco-Examen prayer helps us reflect on our relationships with creation, to notice the ways in which we care for it as well as the ways we neglect it, and then to reflect on what we can change in our lifestyle that will help promote justice and respect for creation as well as help us support those who suffer most from damage done to the natural world and the climate.
16 Simple Ways that YOU
can help the planet!
Recycle
Look into which products you're using can be recycled and cut down on what you throw away.
Reuse Paper
Ever heard of GOOS paper? It's still Good On One Side! Waste less paper by reusing the pieces you've already started on.
Save Water
The less water you use, the less runoff and wastewater will eventually end up in our oceans.
Composting
Composting can prevent food waste from ending up in your garbage can. To learn more about how to start, click HERE.
Clean Up Trash
Litter can be harmful to local plants and animals. If you see trash around outside, properly disposing of it is a big help.
Reusable Products
Limiting single-use plastics helps prevent needless waste. Use sustainable options, like cloth towels, reusable grocery bags, and glass bottles.
Turn Off Electronics
Most of our energy comes from fossil fuels, which produce a lot of harmful emissions. Turning off unused electronics can help curb that.
Turn Off the Lights
Lights can have similar impact to other electronics. Switch to more energy efficient lightbulbs, and make sure to turn off the lights when you leave!
Eat Less Meat
Yes, we know, but a lot of harmful emissions come from meat processing. Cutting down on meat and dairy (even just one day a week) can limit your footprint.
Buy Organic
Organic food production helps preserve local wildlife. Supporting organic production can help preserve animals' local habitat.
Nontoxic Chemicals
Using harmful chemicals causes them to be washed into our waterways. Try to go for nontoxic cleaning supplies when possible.
Buy Less
Overconsumption leads to overproduction, which contributes highly to carbon emissions. Look for quality over quantity, and buy only what you need.
Shop Local
The closer food is grown to you, the less it has to be flown or driven to your location. When shopping, look for products that are home grown.
Start a Garden
Growing produce not only adds oxygen into the atmosphere, but it is the most locally sourced option. You can look into starting your own, or you could try to start/find a community garden.
Limit Car Use
Lower your environmental impact by limiting your car usage. When possible, try to walk, bike, use public transportation, or even carpool.
Use Your Voice!
Protecting the environment is a community effort. On a local level, talk to those around you about individual actions that can be taken. You can also look into larger and broader movements for change.