Happy mid-summer! Is everybody warm enough yet? 2024 is already breaking heat records. Here in upstate New York, the weather has been noticeably wetter these past few years, and we have definitely had many hot days already, but I feel lucky to be in the Northeast comparatively. We are no longer bracing for climate change, it is here. As the effects of a warming planet are becoming increasingly apparent, living more sustainably has become a pressing need rather than just a trend. It may feel like any individual effort to help seems like a drop in the bucket, but taking steps to adapt to our warming planet can help you and your family learn how to live more comfortably in our rapidly changing world.
Eco-Sustainable Manual Push Mower
On my wish list this summer was to get a manual push mower. Since removing the trees around my cabin, wild grass has moved in with a vengeance. Instead of fighting it, I am trying to adapt my landscaping to include it, but now, I need to mow. I purchased the American Lawn Mower 1815-18 18-Inch 5-Blade Reel Lawn Mower from Amazon for about $120. For some reason, it’s an Amazon Associates Program Excluded Product so here’s a link for a comparison to another manufacturer, Great States, a small business. If you are in the market for a push mower, check out both at Amazon.
The hardest part about assembling the American Lawn Mower was squeezing the handles into the slots on the cutter. It seems most tools are designed for male strength, not a woman’s. Finally, I was able to compress the handles by sitting on my bottom, using my feet and hands to do it.
Once assembled, it was easy to push. It’s not too heavy and can be easily maneuvered around. Even though, the manual says to cut grass 5″ or less, of course, I tried mowing down more. It works if you go back and forth over it a few times. But, I will be keeping on top of the grass because that was a lot more effort.
A Few Summer Eco-Prepping Tips
If you are familiar with my blog, you know I love giving tips. From reducing waste to conserving energy, there are countless ways individuals can contribute to living a greener future. Here are some practical ideas to consider making part of your everyday life to embrace sustainability:
Reduce Water Waste: Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, take shorter showers, and only run the dishwasher and washing machine with full loads. Every drop counts when it comes to conserving water.
Practice Mindful Consumption: Before making a purchase, ask yourself if you truly need the item and consider its environmental impact. Choose high-quality, durable products that will last longer and require fewer replacements.
Support Sustainable Agriculture: Buy organic, locally grown produce to support sustainable farming practices and reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Farmer’s markets and community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs are great options.
(FYI: Dandelion+Burdock is a weekly vendor at Cottage Lawn Farmers Market, Dewitt Farmers Market, and Vienna Farmers Market)
Unplug Devices: Power down electronics completely when not in use, rather than leaving them in standby mode. This helps save energy and extends the lifespan of electronic devices.
Conscious Cleaning: Opt for eco-friendly cleaning products or make your own using simple ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils. This reduces exposure to harmful chemicals and minimizes pollution of waterways. Check out my post on eco cleaners.
Dish Soap Eco Refills
Speaking of conscious cleaning, my sister recommended Cleancult Dish Soap Liquid Refills. It’s a paper-based refill that uses 90% less plastic. My sis says the Lemon Verbena scent is wonderful and does cut through grease. My refill came today so I am looking forward to using it later.
More Eco-Prepping next time. Thanks for reading and stay cool, everyone!
Featured photo info: Kota and Sydney were very interested in the mower! It makes a strange whirling noise when the cutter spins making them both think it is a fun game to attack it. I ended up having to put them both inside to finish the job!
please note that this post contain links to affiliate websites, and I receive an affiliate commission for any purchases made by you on the affiliate website using such links. Dandelion +Burdock is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means to earn advertising fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated websites
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