Sustainable

Sustainable wellness is the ability to recognize our own responsibility for a positive impact on the quality of our environment.

For Berea College, sustainability refers to the capacity of individuals, communities, and societies to coexist in a manner that maintains social justice, environmental integrity, and economic well-being today and for future generations.

Signs of Sustainable Well Being

Sustainable wellness involves a number of different aspects of personal and societal responsibilities, including:

Being aware of the earth’s natural resources and their respective limits
creating home and work settings that are supportive and nurturing
Living a life accountable to environmental needs, both in the present and in the long-term
optimizing resources and conserving through mindful use and limiting waste
enjoying and appreciating the resources around us as well as natural, outdoor environments
Realizing the effects of daily habits on the world around you

Ways to Improve Sustainable Well Being

Appreciate non-materialistic aspects of life
Be aware of waste you create
Bring your own reusable utensils, mugs, and cups
Walk/bike instead of driving when going short distances
Contribute to a community cause in which you believe
Turn off lights, TV, etc. when you are not in a room
Unplug devices when you are done using them
Keep your living environment clutter-free and clean
Be aware of your impact on the social environment in any situation and in your community
Express gratitude to those whose work supports the community of which you are part
Make use of the items you purchase/own

Definition in Action:

Eating nutritious food is a choice you make to thrive. To support a sustainable world while eating healthy, here are some questions to ask yourself:

Am I willing to grow some of my own food using organic techniques?
Can I get the products I need from local providers to strengthen the local economy and lessen the carbon emitted from transporting long distances?
If I cannot find this product locally, is the company paying its workers a fair wage?
Did the producer use organic or sustainable techniques, or does the producer use pesticides and farming techniques that have negative impacts to my health, soils, air, and water today and for future generations?
Does the producer use packaging that can be recycled?
Does the producer take strides to engineer as little packaging for my food as possible and make from recycled materials?
Do I live in a neighborhood where I can walk, bike, or take mass transit to get my food needs met, or am I completely car dependent?

This can be a lot to add to a grocery list in the beginning. But, once you get your suppliers and products researched, then it becomes a simple, yet profoundly sustainable way to thrive.