A new buzz word has entered the green scene, shortly on the heels of hits like “eco” and “zero waste,” that may become as ubiquitous as blockbuster films with heroes in capes.
It is time for the “slow” movement to take the world by storm, or at least to gently wave its way onto the shores of our conscience. In an era of the drive-thru, Instagram, digital downloads, to-go food and distracted driving, we are developing a craving for space away from all the speed and stimulation.
Pioneers of the slow movement are indeed an echo of early settlers who grew their own food, cooked at home, travelled by foot and caught up with friends face to face. Spearheaded by “slow food,” this movement is a direct response to the explosion of cheap and fast food being pumped into the stomachs of the nation.
Some of the growing appeal of a slower approach is that it is often healthier, cheaper and gentler on the planet. Brainstorming ways a household can gear down to a more present presence can be fun.
Here are some suggestions to get started on the slow train:
1. Visit Powell River Farmers' market for fresh ingredients, local crafts and live entertainment on Saturdays from 10:30 am-12:30 pm and Sundays from 12:30-2:30 pm.
2. Grow food. Start with herb planter boxes and “grow” from there.
3. Mend something instead of tossing it. Learn how to repair a zipper, darn a sock or sew on a button.
4. Make something you would usually buy. Homemade bread, anyone?
5. Replace buying anything new with a walk to a thrift store for some lightly used treasures, or call up a neighbour to borrow something like we did in the old days.
6. Support musicians who are part of the slow movement, such as the group that literally sailed into Powell River on their Sea to Seed tour last week.
When in doubt, ask, “What would my grandparents do?” Have fun and keep it slow.
Let’s Talk Trash is Powell River Regional District’s waste-management education program.
