Most of what we buy we don’t need, but the culture of consumerism is so ingrained that we believe we do, or, at least, that we deserve to have what we want. Retailers, manufacturers and their advertising agencies tell us so. But is it necessary to become a nonconsumer? The evidence that humanity is suffocating its home planet is mounting; biodiversity loss, global heating, … [Read more...] about Nonconsumerism: why shopping is killing the planet
Climate Crisis: how to act NOW to protect the planet
The science is unquestionable, the message loud and clear, we need to change our way of life. And now. A climate emergency is under way. The only place we know of in the universe which can support humanity is dying. The lives of its seven billion inhabitants are at risk. The response should take the form of a global crisis plan in which the governance of nation states becomes … [Read more...] about Climate Crisis: how to act NOW to protect the planet
Why I left my PhD
I left my PhD after a year. I loved my topic but I didn't want to just read about it, I wanted to live it. I didn't feel the need to prove my knowledge and experience to others and I didn't need to be recognised as a master of my field. The passion was certainly there (in bucketloads), and I did want to promote the idea to others. But that is not a PhD. Talking my thoughts … [Read more...] about Why I left my PhD
Creative decluttering
Decluttering should fundamentally be a creative process, rather than a chore, a problem or a responsibility. It is a positive, happy, artistic opportunity to rework your space and use it in the way that works best for you and your family. There is no right or wrong way of decluttering. We do not need to reduce to 'x' amount of stuff or have a show home to impress our friends. … [Read more...] about Creative decluttering
Counting the cost of Christmas
Guest post by Jacqueline Fenner I want to make it clear, I am not ungrateful. I am extremely grateful for all the people who think of my children with love, and I understand they enjoy expressing this through gift giving. In the past few months, however, I’ve had a massive awakening. We’ve all seen the recent news coverage regarding impending environmental catastrophe, … [Read more...] about Counting the cost of Christmas