[SustainableTompkins] The Compact to challenge consumer culture during 2008

[Marian Brown]

Doug Scott from WCHU called our attention to The Compact, and wondered 
if there might be some interest in supporting the effort locally - 
thanks, Doug! This effort was covered in the Minneapolis Star-Tribune 
this week  http://nc.startribune.com/blogs/kablog/. So many folks here 
in the Tompkins County region ARE very supportive of the tenets espoused 
by The Compact. If you haven't yet heard about The Compact, here's the 
"scoop":

A number of individuals have undertaken a personal challenge - which 
they have termed The Compact -  to unplug themselves as much as possible 
from consumerism for calendar year 2008. The Compact has several aims:

* To go beyond recycling in trying to counteract the negative global 
environmental and socioeconomic impacts of disposable consumer culture 
and to support local businesses, farms, etc. - a step that, we hope, 
inherits the revolutionary impulse of the Mayflower Compact.
* To reduce clutter and waste in our homes (as in trash Compact-er).
* To simplify our lives (as in Calm-pact).

Compact members have agreed to follow two principles (see exceptions below)
#1 Don't buy new products of any kind (from stores, websites, etc.).
#2 Borrow, barter, or buy used.
**
** A few exceptions** - using the "fair and reasonable person" standard 
( i.e., you'll know in your heart when you're rationalizing a violation):
- food, drink, and necessary medicine (no elective treatments, like 
Botox) -
- necessary cleaning products, but not equipment
- socks and underwear (utilitarian--non-couture or ornamental)
- pajamas for the children*

** Utilitarian services* (plumbers, electricians, auto mechanics, 
veterinarians, dog/house-sitters, fire/paramedics, dry cleaners, house 
cleaners, etc.) -- Support local and encourage used parts (rebuilt 
transmission, salvaged headlight unit, etc.)*
** Recreational services (massage, etc.) & *local artisanal items* are 
good sources for gifts, but should not be over-indulged in for personal 
gratification***Charitable contributions* are an even better source for 
gifts***
** Plants and cut flowers* - Whenever possible, cultivate from free 
cuttings or seeds. Ok in extreme moderation when purchased from local 
businesses and again, within reason.***
** Art supplies* - First line of attack: use SCRAP 
<http://www.scrap-sf.org/>. When absolutely necessary (for the 
professionals and talented amateurs in the group), purchase from local 
businesses.***
** Magazines, newspapers, Netflix* - renewals only, no new 
subscriptions. Even better to consume online (or use Public Library 
resources).**
** Video rentals and downloadable music files* (non-material) -- freely 
shared and legal, please*_
_*
- - - - - - - -

For more information about The Compact:  http://sfcompact.blogspot.com/

There is also a Yahoo group to join "The Compact" - it's currently at 
8,821 members and growing.
Subscribe:  thecompact-subscribe at yahoogroups.com
Post messages to The Compact group:  thecompact at yahoogroups.com