SUSTAINABLE CHANGE

FAMILYMATTERS FROM AMANDA KOEHN

Sustainable change

To make a lifestyle change, you not only need motivation, but likely a detailed plan of action to ensure the change is actually remembered and effective. And as you’ve likely experienced if you’ve ever made a new year’s resolution, you know the support of your family and those around you can greatly infl uence your path forward.

In this issue of Balanced Family, you will read about Northeast Ohioans who have made eliminating trash their change of choice and into their own innovative businesses. This story was especially interesting to pursue because I also have been working to cut down on producing trash over the past year. Composting was a start, as was buying reusable produce bags, which I’ve learned are also handy for fi lling with bulk foods – oatmeal, nuts, snacks, etc. – at the grocery store. I’ve attempted to make toothpaste and deodorant in reusable jars, and bring my own containers for leftovers at restaurants. (Yes, I’ve gotten eye rolls, and am working on trying not to care.)

I’m certainly not at the point of zero waste, but I’ve implemented enough behaviors that I no longer throw anything in the trash without thinking about it. I know that may sound radical, but reducing waste has not only become a major way I can personally contribute to creating a more sustainable world, but somewhat of a hobby. And, living with two roommates and a dog, I admit it’s likely much easier for me to fi nd the time and energy to experiment with such lifestyle changes than someone with children or others for whom they provide.

That’s why I was particularly struck by what Teresa Mazey, the founder of the store Empty Bin Zero Waste in Canton and grandmother of three, told me about the importance of opening up the conversation on what kind of sustainable actions work for one family or individual, as well as changes that haven’t fi t well into their lives. Similarly, Daniel Brown, co-founder of community compost company Rust Belt Riders in Cleveland, discussed how his business aims to make the environmentally responsible action of composting easy and affordable, to the point where it may make even the busiest and least environmentally concerned people intrigued. Related, Perfectly Imperfect Produce in Willoughby Hills, started by Ashley Weingart, aims to reduce food waste by selling uniquely shaped, sized or blemished produce. In this issue, Weingart provides a glimpse into the ins and outs of her days, as well as how she manages stress and productivity with a family of fi ve and her own business.

These stories point to the notion that perhaps Northeast Ohio is approaching a turning point for increased sustainability, as both companies and individuals fi nd ways to do more. Moreover, if the subject of sustainable action was approached with less judgment and more transparency, maybe we could all better evaluate where we stand and what more we could reasonably do – actions that benefi t ourselves, our planet and future generations.

Also in this issue, we check in with the pros on how to plan a memorable family vacation, and why it’s important even if money might be tight or you feel too busy. Experts also explain why older adults may be more susceptible to scams and the best ways to help them manage their money. We also try to break down the complexities of and hype over intermittent fasting.

As always, we hope the stories in this issue contribute to your family making the best choices for yourselves and our planet. And if you do decide to make changes in any area, the wisdom shared by others makes it all a little easier.

Editor Amanda Koehn editor@balancedmag.com Design Manager Stephen Valentine FAMILY BALANCED

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