In social work we base much of our work on the interactions between people and their environments. This “person in environment” approach states that people are products of their environment and they impact their environments.

In short, no one lives in isolation; no one is an island unto himself or herself. My students hear me say this repeatedly (and they may groan to see this here): We do not live in a vacuum. Everything we do in our lives impacts someone else.

Impacting others positively

If everything we do impacts someone else, I challenge you to make it positive. Everyday choices can lead to a better place for all of us to live.
For example, consider bananas. Yes, bananas. Where do your bananas come from? Who grows them? How are their workers treated? How many toxic chemicals were used to raise the bananas and how do those chemicals affect those who are raising the bananas?

Your daily banana travels thousands of miles to reach you. How much fuel is consumed in order to bring that banana to you? The carbon footprint is sizable when you add the chemicals and fuel used in the production and distribution of that banana.

Once you consider the major banana companies are often accused of poor or dangerous labor practices, your banana gets even costlier. 

Can you still have bananas? Look at fair trade bananas. Produce labeled as fair trade indicates farmers earn a living wage, sustainable farming practices were used and most dangerous and toxic chemicals were not used.

Support for social justice

Fair trade foods support social justice principles – fairness to all.

There are many everyday things each of us can do to make a positive impact on our social and ecological environments.

Turn off the lights when you leave the room. Turn off your computer at night and unplug your cell phone charger when it is not charging. 

Saving energy means reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. A cleaner physical environment means healthier children.

Buy local products and produce. Shopping in the town where you live means you are using less fuel and supporting local merchants who, in turn, support the community.

Support business practices that support the well being of people, especially their employees. Make choices that have a positive impact on the world around you.