Native American Heritage Month

November is Native American Heritage Month, and there aren't many other ways to be sustainable than taking a page out of their book. Many Native American tribes center their culture around the conversation of land and natural resources while practicing accountability and self-restraint. 

Here are some simple ways to reduce your carbon footprint by emulating Native American Philosophies: 

1. Recycle: From using broken cups as spear tips to using all sorts of objects to create clothing, Natives only threw away what they couldn't reuse. Try finding a new use for an item you don't use anymore, and if you can't reuse your item but think someone else can, try donating it!
2. Accountability: The Seventh Generation Principle is an ancient Iroquois doctrine stating that the decisions we make today need to go towards creating a sustainable world seven years from now. Try implementing this principle in your own life!
3. Shop local: Many Native American Tribes have a strong sense of community and cooperation. A simple way to contribute to your community is to buy local goods and produce. A few other examples of shopping locally include hiring local moves, riding with local taxi companies, and eating at local mom-and-pop shops.
4. Don't Overconsume: Sometimes, it's easy to take more than we need. Many Native American tribes practice self-restraint to work as a community for the things they need and protect resources for future generations.
5. Value the Earth: Many Native American Tribes understood that their life made an impact. Because of this belief, they treated nature with respect and value. As a society, it's essential to understand the true importance of the Earth and treat it with dignity.

Hopefully, while you're enjoying your Thanksgiving dinner this month, which was a true act of Native American kindness to some of this country's first settlers, you remember the people who taught the modern world how to farm and live off this beautiful land.

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