This year the Arts Insights writers have been exploring artists for whom the environment is front and center. In my recent career shift I have been looking for a niche where I can make the most difference beyond shrinking my personal carbon footprint. Members of Art to Change the World’s Climate Change Action Affinity Group are also at varying points on their journeys, and we’ve been trading ideas and readings.
— Margo Ashmore
In compiling this list (and I’m not the first to have done such a list), I’ve assumed global warming is the most urgent problem and can best be addressed by eliminating demand for and use of fossil fuels. Related to this is the huge amount of consumption by people, particularly in developed nations. The goods we buy require energy and water to produce, therefore it is also top-of-list to question what is really necessary and stop consumption of what is not. I don’t claim to be doing all these things or to be or have been perfect but learning and working toward goals and asking for support and ideas.
If you’re already doing these things, bravo – and please add your hacks to this list.
1.) Limit car use, be deliberate about trips (organize errand routes), car pool, work from home, take transit, walk, bike, scooter.
2.) Work on not overbuying. It has been said 40% of the food produced in America is wasted. Process or give away excess before it goes bad.
3.) “Buy nothing.” Reuse, re-gift, give experiences or services. Finding good homes for unwanted goods is more difficult than throwing in the trash, and underscores the resolve to not consume.
4.) Reject single-use plastics and packaging by not buying from those who don’t have a strategy for prevention and reuse. In packaging and shipping artwork, reuse or repurpose materials wherever possible – bubble wrap, newspapers, cardboard, string, packing peanuts, styrofoam from previous users. (Note: keep biodegradables separate from the toxic kind!)
5.) Advocate for legislation to eliminate use of fossil fuels, to limit growth of anything relating to humans, to promote simple solutions. I believe we have run out of time for technology to develop, not to mention the amount of resources required and the possibility that new technology may just shift a problem elsewhere.
6.) In dealings with others, model and explain the benefits of a simple, stable life instead of constant growth.
7.) Set up and/or take advantage of intentional systems for sharing tools (Minnesota Tool Library) and
We would like to hear what you are doing to improve your art practice’s environmental impact. Contact Margo Ashmore at margo@margoashmore.com or 612-867-4874.