19 minute read
WISHFUL RECYCLING
Wishful Recycling What Not to Put in the Bin
by Yvette C. Hammett
For those that have been putting recyclables in a plastic bag and placing it in a curbside bin, it’s likely going straight into a landfill. That bowling ball, those yard clippings and dirty pizza boxes are contaminating the recycling stream and increasing the cost of recycling programs nationwide at a particularly challenging time amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The continuing rise in contaminated items is known in the biz as “wishful recycling”. The current crisis is only making it worse. In some places, recycling itself is becoming wishful.
As stores and restaurants struggle to survive, local tax revenues have dropped sharply, forcing municipalities to slash budgets. Many small towns and a few big cities have stopped recycling programs altogether. Others have cut back on what they will accept or substituted drop-off bins for curbside pickup. States are pulling back from encouraging bottle-deposit returns. The plastic masks, gloves and wipes mistakenly tossed into recycle bins are endangering waste workers that must remove them. With the coronavirus shown to cling to plastic for three days, many workers around the country have become ill from such exposure.
Meanwhile, waste is mounting. Consumers are now having groceries delivered, picking them up or ordering them online, adding hundreds of millions more plastic bags and cardboard boxes to the waste stream. The Solid Waste Association of North America estimates that U.S. cities saw a 20 percent average increase in municipal solid waste and recycling collection in March and part of April. And because China stopped accepting 99 percent of the world’s recyclables two years ago, recycling operations are struggling for disposal locations.
“There is the potential for households to generate more waste than they did before, but there is also an opportunity to focus on waste prevention, increase your reuse and recycling efforts, and use food more efficiently,” the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency advises on epa.gov. “Now is a great time to focus on waste prevention where possible, and when recycling, keep the materials as clean and dry as possible.”
To be more conscious about recycling habits, “Instead of, ‘When in doubt, throw it in,’ it should be, ‘When in doubt, throw it out,’” says David Keeling, president of the National Recycling Coalition.
The Washington State nonprofit Sustainable Connections estimates that 25 percent of what goes into recycling containers is not recyclable. “Contamination significantly increases the cost to process recyclables and makes it harder for processors to market their products, creating a huge economic challenge,” according to SustainableConnections.org. “We rely on the private sector to take away our waste, and they need to be able to turn a profit in order to run a viable business.”
Unfortunately, “Across the country and within Florida, we are seeing a growing trend on contamination in recycling,” says Travis Barnes, recycling coordinator of Florida’s Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa. The worst offenders, he says, are people that don’t sufficiently clean out mayonnaise or ketchup containers, as well as put plastic bags in the recycling bin that can become entangled in multimillion-dollar equipment, bringing the entire sorting process to a halt.
Beth Porter, climate campaigns director for the nonprofit Green America and author of Reduce, Reuse, Reimagine: Sorting
Out the Recycling System, says there’s a lot of confusion on what to put in the bin. She points to Michigan, which aims for 30 percent recycling by 2025 and created videos featuring “Recycling Raccoons” that offer instructions on proper sorting. In Washington, D.C., says Porter, “Workers peek in recycling bins and can tag the bin with some specific info telling you not to throw in plastic bags and contaminated stuff,” lowering contamination rates by 30 percent.
“The public demands curbside recycling,” Barnes says. “It is highly ranked as something the public wants,” but people also need to be more aware to make the system more efficient.
Even with the current challenges, environmentalists see recycling as a key strategy for a planet sinking under plastic waste. “As we navigate this new reality together, consumers whose circumstances allow for it should begin to reshape how they think about plastic pollution,” advises the World Economic Forum website weForum.org. “It’s a real and present crisis we can stop in its tracks right now—if we make choices that lead to a cleaner and more sustainable future.”
Yvette C. Hammett is an environmental writer based in Valrico, Florida. Connect at YvetteHammettHull49@gmail.com.
Rules for Recycling
Here is a list of broadly accepted common rules for recyclables from Currents: Navigating Society & Sea, a blog of the University of Washington School of Marine and Environmental Affairs, in Seattle: Pizza boxes?No. Almost all takeout containers are contaminated with greasy food residue.
Single-use coffee cups and lids? Many coffee shops use compostable cups that go in the compost bin or garbage. Recycle the lid.
Plastic grocery bags?No, not in residential recycling, but they can be returned to the store in most cases.
Soup cans and other steel cans? Definitely, but remove the lid first and rinse the cans.
Milk and juice cartons?Yes. Leave the spouts, but toss the caps. Rinse the containers. Do not flatten them to avoid confusion during sorting.
Styrofoam?No. Styrofoam is not accepted for residential recycling.
For local waste management rules, contact municipal or county offices. When we say Body, Mind & Spirit, We mean it
Body: NEUROFEEDBACK. Brain health is essential for optimal happiness. Neurofeedback helps to rewire the brain so that one experiences life in a quality and healthy way. Mind: THERAPY. Examine actions, behaviors and patterns to create sustainable new patterns that promote health and decrease stress, anxiety, and depression. Spirit: SPIRITUALITY & HEALTH GROUP SESSIONS. Held each Friday at 10am. Reveal blocks & fears while creating awareness thru breathing, imagery, energy, processing & change.
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Cancer-Free Pets Five Ways to Help Keep Them Healthy
serejkakovalev/AdobeStock.com
by Karen Shaw Becker
Veterinarians are seeing cancer in creates an environment in which abnormal more and younger pets these days cells proliferate. than ever before. According to the Cancer cells require the glucose in American Veterinary Medical Association, carbohydrates to grow and multiply, so approximately one in four dogs will develop work to eliminate this cancer energy source. cancer at some point in life, including almost Carbs to remove from a pet’s diet include half of dogs over the age of 10. But taking processed grains, fruits with fructose and practical steps can help lower a pet’s risk. starchy vegetables like potatoes. Don’t allow a dog or cat to become overweight.Studies show that restricting the number of calories an animal eats prevents and/or delays the progression of tumor development across species. Fewer calories cause the cells of the body to block tumor growth, whereas too many calories can lead to obesity, which is closely linked to increased cancer risk in humans. There’s a connection between too much glucose, increased insulin sensitivity, inflammation and oxidative stress, all factors in obesity and cancer. It’s important to remember that fat doesn’t just sit in a pet’s body harmlessly—it produces inflammation that can promote tumor development. Keep in mind that all dry pet food (“fast food”) contains some form of potentially carcinogenic, highly processed starch. It may be grain-free, but it can’t be starch-free because it’s not possible to manufacture kibble without using some type of starch. The correlation between consuming fast foods and cancer has been established in humans, so it’s wise to incorporate as much fresh, unprocessed food into an entire family’s diet as can be afforded. Cancer cells generally can’t use dietary fats for energy, so high amounts of goodquality fats are nutritionally beneficial for dogs fighting cancer, along with a reduced amount of protein and no carbs—basically a ketogenic diet. Feed an anti-inflammatory diet.Anything A healthy diet for a pet is one that’s that creates or promotes inflammation anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer, and in the body increases the risk for cancer. consists of real, preferably raw, whole foods. Current research suggests cancer is actually It should include high-quality protein, a chronic inflammatory disease fueled by including muscle meat, organs and bones. carbohydrates. The inflammatory process It should also include high amounts of animal fat, high levels of EPA and DHA (omega-3 fatty acids) and a few freshcut, low-glycemic veggies. This speciesappropriate diet is high in moisture content and contains no grains or starches.
Also make sure the diet is balanced following ancestral diet recommendations, which have much more rigorous standards (higher amounts of minerals and vitamins) than the current dietary recommendations for pets. A few beneficial supplements like probiotics, medicinal mushrooms, digestive enzymes and super green foods can also be very beneficial to enhance immune function.
Reduce or eliminate a pet’s exposure to
toxins and minimize chronic stress.These include chemical pesticides like flea and tick preventives, lawn chemicals linked to cancer (weed killers, herbicides, etc.), tobacco smoke, flame retardants, household cleaners and air-scenting products like candles and plug-ins. Because we live in a toxic world and avoiding all chemical exposure is nearly impossible, a periodic detoxification protocol can also benefit a pet.
Research points to the benefits of identifying and removing sources of chronic stress in an animal’s life. Focusing on providing environmental enrichment and opportunities for dogs to just be dogs (play, sniff and run) on a daily basis is important in keeping them happy and healthy.
For dogs, especially a large or giant breed, hold off neutering or spaying until the
age of 18 months to 2 years. Studies have linked spaying and neutering to increasing cancer rates in dogs. Even better, investigate alternative ways to sterilize a pet without upsetting their important hormone balance. Refuse unnecessary vaccinations. Vaccine protocols should be tailored to minimize risk and maximize protection, taking into account the breed, background, nutritional status, lifestyle and overall vitality of the pet. Vaccines may cause cancer, and titer testing is a responsible way to ensure a pet has adequate immunity in place of overvaccinating on an annual basis.
Karen Shaw Becker, DVM, a proactive and integrative veterinarian in the Chicago area, consults internationally and writes Mercola Healthy Pets.
10 Classic Symptoms Not to Ignore
Dogs and cats can develop cancer almost anywhere in the body, which is why the symptoms vary depending on the tissues and organs involved and the severity of the disease. Make an appointment with a veterinarian if a pet displays any of these warning signs of cancer. 1. Unusual swellings that don’t go away or that grow. The best way to discover lumps, bumps or swelling on a dog or cat is to pet them. 2. Sores that won’t heal. Non-healing sores can be a sign of infection or cancer and should be evaluated by a veterinarian. 3. Weight loss.Illness could be the reason a pet is losing weight when it isn’t on a diet. 4. Loss of appetite. Reluctance or refusal to eat is a sign of possible illness. 5. Bleeding or discharge. Bleeding can occur for a number of reasons, most of which signal a problem. Unexplained vomiting and diarrhea are considered abnormal discharges, as well. 6. Offensive smell. An unpleasant odor is a common sign of tumors of the anus, mouth or nose. 7. Difficulty eating or swallowing. This is a common sign of cancers of the mouth or neck. 8. Reluctance to exercise or low energy level. This is often one of the first signs that a pet is not feeling well. 9. Persistent lameness. There can be many causes of lameness, including nerve, muscle or bone cancer. 10. Difficulty breathing, urinating or defecating. These symptoms should be evaluated by a veterinarian as soon as possible. Many of these symptoms also occur with other disorders and diseases, but any pet showing one or more of these signs needs prompt veterinary attention.
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Yoga Corner
The Power of My Mat, Part II
by Nicole Zornitzer
Last evening I sheared all of my mother’s hair As we watched the clumps fall to the floor, we cried a river of tears We watched the stripping of her dignity fall with each strand that left her body I embraced the naked body of the woman who birthed me and showed me all of the goodness in the world We made tea, we snuggled, and I assured her she looked even more beautiful than before In Ayurveda the action of shearing the hair has been a Vedic tradition from the beginning of time. Removal of the hair stimulates the central nervous system and renews bone marrow tissue, allowing the body to revive itself. Shearing the hair renews the body/ mind and spirit. This also signifies lightening one’s burdens, eliminating attachment to the material world. Hair carries the experiences of our lives and its removal means much more than hair being removed. A naked head makes it easier to face the pure and unadorned spirit of self so that we come to terms with its truth and esteem it for what it truly is. I explained this to my mom as she listened to the wisdom, I can bestow upon her during her struggle with cancer. I became her light as she rested on my breast For many years I have educated practitioners about the POWER of the yoga mat; this morning I am a living example of such. I arrive I practice I release my own sorrows as I move through this meditation My mat is my safe haven, my place of grounding, my time to reconnect with who I am My mat knows me better than any human As I wipe the salty tears off of my face, I gather the energy to begin again Each breath, each movement is me; finding me I am more than just my mother’s light; I share my authentic self with all whom practice with me It is not easy, but it is my calling I arrive I breath I move I let go I move forward, if for no other reason but for her Life is most definitely not fair; however it has been said that through struggle we find ourselves I have struggled many times; I have shown resilience and I encourage all of you to do the same Get on your mat, even during the darkest of times Just arrive And I will be there to catch you, that is my promise to you Excerpt from The Surrender, N. Zornitzer, December 2019 Nicole Zornitzer, ERYT 1000, yoga therapist, founder of Niyama Yoga & Wellness Shala, located in Randolph, New Jersey, and Upper Lake Mohawk in Sparta, New Jersey. Visit NiyamaYogaShala.com.
north wales
Kindred Yoga 1364 Welsh Rd 267-664-1022 KindredYogaStudio.com
Whole Body Yoga Studio 103 E Walnut St 215-661-0510 WholeBodyYogaStudio.com
breathe
Bucks/Montgomery Community business directory
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Agribusiness
Fortis Farms, LLC Monika Christian and Kiley Doll 18230 Edwards Shop Rd, Elkwood, VA 540-409-6871 • Hello@GrowFortisFarms.com GrowFortisFarms.com
Fortis Farms’ goal is to create easy access to fresh, local food sources in a sustainable, resource-conserving system. We use and distribute aeroponic garden solutions to produce more, local, lower cost, healthy food in smaller spaces. See ad, page 3.
Behavioral Health
M.E. Matters 668 Woodbourne Rd, Ste 108, Langhorne 215-914-5344 MEMatters.org
Psychological and behavioral health services for individuals, couples, teens and families where mind, body and spirit matter. We offer neurofeedback, therapy and a spirituality awareness group. Our goal is to help you experience life with increased awareness and without fear. See ad, page 29.
CBD Oil
The Hemp Oil Store Joseph Wilker Cool Breeze Distributors • 3 E Ave, Yardley 855-904-4367, 267-679-2949 CoolBreezeDist@gmail.com TheHempOilStore.com
The Hemp Oil Store is a family-owned CBD store. Our goal is to bring you, your pets, and your loved ones high-quality CBD products at affordable prices. Shop online at TheHempOil Store.com with free shipping. We also have curbside pickup and walk-ins are always welcome. License Number 82-2609404. See ad, page 15.
Dentistry - Holistic
Holistic Dental Center Vladimir Gashinsky, DDS 91 Millburn Ave, Milburn, NJ 973-457-4688 HolisticDentalCenterNJ.com
Holistic dental care that is good for the body as well as teeth and gums. By treating the cause, not just the symptoms, Dr. Gashinsky helps improve his patients’ quality of life through dental care that respects and honors the body. See ad, back cover.
Lanap & Implant Center of PA David DiGiallorenzo, DMD Henry Hsu, DMD 184 W Main St, Collegeville 610-409-6064 • PerioImplants.us
Providing oral health solutions through holistic, biologically compatible and organic practices. One of the world's most accomplished centers for periodontal and implant care, which integrates wellness services into their therapeutic approach. Experience with immediate total tooth replacement with metalfree dental implants, treating gum disease with LANAP, a no-cut, no-sew method of treating gum disease, comfortable gum grafting with PRGF, implant denture solutions, and chronic pain management. See ad, page 7.
Hospice
Ascend Hospice 108 Cowpath Rd, Stes 3 & 4, Lansdale 215-542-2100 AscendHospice.com
Bringing a personalized and holistic approach to hospice care. Our trained volunteers offer aromatherapy, massage therapy, reiki and pet therapy to bring healing and wholeness to clients and their families. See ad, page 29. Join the community! Request our media kit today by emailing Publisher@NABuxMont.com
Life Coaching - Gestalt
Step Into Joy Healing Arts Joan Summers, Certified Gestalt Coach, Trauma Professional and Reiki Master 267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com
Experience deep and longlasting healing. Joan offers healing for her clients who are tired of feeling stuck, disconnected or without purpose. She offers Gestalt Life Coaching, Equine Gestalt Life Coaching and reiki, and you may choose to customize your session. See ad, page 21.
Metaphysical Services
Journey To The Self Linda Harbaugh, Intuitive Medium Certified Life Coach/Reiki Practitioner Linda@JourneyToTheSelf.com JourneyToTheSelf.com • 484-904-9268
Delivering messages of love and guidance from deceased loved ones and spirit guides via readings and intuitive reiki sessions. A certified life coach, Linda also offers intuitive coaching packages to help you navigate life, jobs and relationships. Psychology degree, former teacher, 30 years business experience. Telephone or in person.
Natural Medicine
Inner Harmony Wellness Center Peter Amato, PhD, DNM Board Certified Natural Medicine Two PA Locations 647 Wyoming Ave, Kingston 131 Reynolds Rd, Waverly 570-319-6073 • InnerHarmonyWellness.com
With 25 years of experience, we get to the root cause of your health concerns. Find out what is causing long-standing health issues and walk away with a precise care plan. Today's chronic illnesses are not located in the blood. We test at the cellular level. Our approach merges applied kinesiology, Quantum Biofeedback and (ART) Autonomic Response Testing developed by Dietrich Klinghardt, MD, PhD. See ad, page 15.
Center for Natural Healing Jeffrey L Griffin, DC Bailiwick Office Campus, Ste 26, Doylestown 215-348-2115 • C4NH.com
Feeling poorly? Lacking answers? Improvement at a standstill? Locate the source of stress and the treatment becomes obvious. Mention Dr. Jeff’s 35 years of experience when you call and receive a free phone consultation to learn how we can start helping you today. See ad, page 19.
Reiki
Step Into Joy Healing Arts Joan Summers, Certified Intuitive Reiki Master and Gestalt Coach 267-272-9343 • StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com Joan@StepIntoJoyHealingArts.com
Experience peace of mind, enlightened awareness and physical restoration. The connections between physical pain and emotional trauma are often revealed during an intuitive reiki session. It is a practice of compassion and spiritual connection. See ad, page 21.
Sexuality Coaching
Michelle Christine Sacred Rose Unity Barn, 4000 Sawmill Rd, Doylestown MichelleChristine@SacredRose444.com 215-840-8139 • SacredRose444.com
Michelle Christine supports women to reclaim and redefine their sexuality in any stage of their lives. Together we will work on helping you to love, nourish and celebrate yourself and your divine femininity. See ad, page 21. Inner Spa 4 Terry Dr, Ste 12, Atrium Bldg, Newtown Info@InnerSpa.org • 215-968-9000 InnerSpa.org • InnerVitalitySpa.com
A fully organic, holistic, eco-friendly wellness spa featuring an array of detoxification, cleansing and therapeutic services. The spa is one of the only facilities in the area to offer colon hydrotherapy. See ad, page 23.
Thermography
Lisa's Thermography and Wellness Lisa Mack, CCT, HHC • 855-667-9338 Thermographer and Holistic Counselor See website for locations in NJ, NY & PA Lisa@LisasThermographyAndWellness.com LisasThermographyAndWellness.com
Thermography gives an early look at the most important indicator of a potential health problem — inflammation. Earlystage disease screening is an area in which thermography excels. Whether your pain is acute or chronic, or you are merely curious about the state of your health, thermography can help provide answers. Radiation-free breast and full-body screenings for men and women. See ad, pg 16.
Veterinary - Holistic
Doylestown Veterinary Hospital & Holistic Pet Care 380 N Shady Retreat Rd, Doylestown 215-345-6000 DoylestownVeterinaryHospital.com
Improving the lives of pets through acupuncture, herbal therapy, homeopathy, nutritional counseling and integration of holistic therapies with conventional medicine for customized approach to care. See ad, page 31.
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