Back To The Roots
“The old Lakota was wise. He knew that man’s heart, away from nature, becomes hard; he knew that lack of respect for growing, living things soon led to lack of respect for humans too. So he kept his youth close to nature’s softening influence” Luther Standing Bear.
Hearing anecdotes and traditional wisdom from the elderly in my household when packaged items/synthetic products weren’t a thing was fascinating. It truly meant a minimalistic and simple existence without degrading the environment. Thus, sustainability was the way of living as it encompasses better choices in food, traditions, clothing, and various other aspects.
But, sustainability is a buzzword nowadays! It is interesting to know how consumerism and convenience have replaced various traditional and earth-friendly practices. For example, plastic toothbrushes instead of the antibacterial neem branch or daatun for oral care, disposable plates instead of the humble banana/siali tree leaf plates, or even the durable brass/copper utensils. Plastic scrubbers are being widely used instead of the coconut husk/natural sponge scrubber, which would quickly degrade into the soil. Chemical induced cleaners with microplastics have taken over ash residue/lemon peel powder for cleaning utensils. Leak proof plastic sanitary napkins have been advertised better over traditional cloth pads. Soapnuts and hibiscus, multani mitti, and other edibles have always been used as personal care products. Eating seasonal and local food from kitchen gardens has also been a part of our various festivals, and food wastage isn’t appreciated. Most products’ life was also elongated by repairing or mending them, thus requiring fewer clothes & accessories. Many things that no longer hold value are sold or bartered with scrap dealers to be recycled/reused. Bucket baths, sun- drying clothes, using coconut oil, and hand-washing dishes are other widespread, traditional practices too.
These conversations helped me understand “sustainable practices” in depth. Such practices not only help the planet; they also create a livelihood for tribals and the local stakeholders. The customs used by our elders, dominated by culture, or religion, conveyed an important message- it is possible to lead our lives, keeping nature as the focal point. It may not be easy initially, but one little green step at a time can get us there. The Ceiba Store is an effort in that direction to promote biodegradable , single use plastic free products that produce less waste overall. Time for some conscious consumerism and shopping!
