Why Should We Care About Sustainability?

Everybody should care about sustainability for a number of reasons. You don’t necessarily need to be a self-proclaimed eco-warrior to do your part for the environment, but it’s important to take steps to protect the planet in every way possible.

Despite how it might feel, you can make a difference in the world as an individual. The small steps that you take in your life to live more sustainably can have a larger impact on the environment. Something as simple as purchasing eco-friendly sofas instead of traditional pieces of furniture or recycling pens and pencils can preserve raw materials and reduce carbon emissions.

Why Should You Care About Sustainability?

We only have one planet, so we need to take good care of it. Keep reading to learn more about why you should care about sustainability.

Reason 1 - We rely on the Earth to survive

The modern-day lifestyle relies on the Earth’s natural resources. We need Earth for food, energy, and materials for clothing and housing.

Without the Earth’s resources, we wouldn’t be able to survive as a human race, especially with the lifestyles that most of us lead nowadays. Eventually, these resources will become so depleted that there’s no turning back unless we start taking action now.

Although ore is being done to reduce the usage of raw materials and there has been significant developments since the creation of recycling, there’s still a lot more that can be done!

Reason 2 - Sustainability has ethical roots

Sustainability isn’t just important for preserving the Earth’s natural resources. It’s also rooted in ethics.

More and more people are becoming aware of the damaging impacts our actions as a human race have on the environment. The increased rate of global warming and mass deforestation is causing millions of animals and plants to die every year.

By living sustainably, we can slow down global warming and save our planet and all of its inhabitants. Recycling, reducing your personal carbon footprint, and reducing your energy consumption at home are all great ways to lead a more sustainable lifestyle.

Reason 3 - Sustainability supports the economy

Living sustainably can boost the economy in a number of ways. For example, one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to shop locally. Purchasing your food and products from nearby farmers and stores not only cuts emissions but also supports your local economy.

Sustainability can also create new jobs, known as green jobs, in several sectors, such as the renewable energy industry and the recycling industry. Recycling centers require an ongoing cohort of staff to sort through waste materials, and policy creators are needed to create new rules and regulations around recycling and composting.

The University of Massachusetts completed a study showing that for every green job created in the United States, an additional 2.5 jobs are created elsewhere. Plus, green jobs are often better paid than the equivalent non-green jobs.

Delicious Summer Cocktails and Mocktails for Entertaining

Summer is the perfect season for entertaining friends and family outdoors, and what better way to do it than with some delicious and refreshing cocktails and mocktails. Whether you are hosting a backyard barbecue or a pool party, these recipes are sure to impress your guests and keep them cool and hydrated during those hot summer days. 

Classic Margarita

Ingredients:

• 2 oz. Tequila
• 1 oz. Lime Juice
• 1 oz. Simple Syrup
• Salt for the rim

Instructions:

1. Rub the rim of a rocks glass with a lime wedge, then dip it into a plate of salt.
2. Fill the glass with ice.
3. In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice.
4. Shake vigorously for about 10 seconds, then strain into the prepared glass.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and enjoy!                                                                                                
   

Watermelon Agua Fresca

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chopped seedless watermelon
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 limes, juiced

Instructions:

1. Combine watermelon, water, and honey in a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Add lime juice and blend again.
3. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher.
4. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with a slice of watermelon.

Pineapple Coconut Mojito

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
• 1/4 cup pineapple chunks
• 1 tbsp. coconut cream
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 lime, juiced
• 1 1/2 oz. rum
• Club soda

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, muddle together mint leaves, pineapple, coconut cream, honey, and lime juice.
2. Add rum and ice to the shaker and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and garnish with a sprig of mint and a slice of pineapple.                                   
   

Strawberry Lemonade Mocktail

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 cups cold water
• Lemon slices and strawberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree strawberries, lemon juice, and honey until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into a pitcher.
3. Add cold water and stir well.
4. Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
5. Serve over ice and garnish with lemon slices and strawberries.

Peach Bellini

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe peach, peeled and pitted
• 1 tbsp. honey
• 1/2 bottle Prosecco

Instructions:

1. Puree peach and honey in a blender until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a champagne flute.
3. Top with Prosecco and stir gently.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These summer cocktail and mocktail recipes are perfect for entertaining guests and cooling off during hot summer days. Try them out and get creative with your own ingredients and flavors to make your signature drinks that everyone will love. Cheers to a fun and refreshing summer!

Be Aware! Termite Season Is Here!

National Termite Awareness Week is March 12-18 

The arrival of spring brings more daylight and the rebirth of nature. Unfortunately, it also creates the ideal conditions for termites–a tiny but destructive insect that annually causes homeowners an average of $5 billion in repair costs. March 12-18 is National Termite Awareness Week, and Terminix Service, Inc. is arming homeowners with preventative measures to protect their properties from termites, including the more aggressive Formosan species spreading across the Carolinas. 

"The warmer, wet weather in the springtime creates the perfect environment for termite activity, making this the perfect time to remind homeowners about the increased risk to their properties," said Terminix Technical Director Kevin Hathorne. "With many new residents relocating to the South, it's important to understand the risks associated with termites. Our region is home to several species, including subterranean, drywood, and now formosans. We're here to help educate homeowners about how to make their property less attractive to these pests." 

Terminix encourages homeowners to follow these Top 10 preventative measures, including:

1. Repair plumbing leaks.
2. Make sure gutters and downspouts are not clogged or damaged and are directing water away from the foundation. Install gutters if you don't have them.
3. Point sprinklers away from your foundation.
4. Prevent pooling water next to your foundation by re-grading the soil so that water flows away from your house, or install a drainage system like a French drain.
5. Keep your roof in good shape and free of leaks.
6. Repair and replace damaged siding and flashing.
7. Store firewood, scrap lumber, or any other wooden products as far from your house as possible.
8. Do not use excessive mulch or pine straw around the foundation.
9. Trim any adjacent bushes and trees.
10. Ensure your crawl space has adequate ventilation and a moisture barrier or is encapsulated and conditioned like the Terminix Humidi-Seal system offers.

Locally-owned Terminix Service, Inc. provides a termite protection plan with the strongest guarantee in the business. For more information, visit www.trustterminix.com or call 1-800-TERMINIX. 

About Terminix Service, Inc.

For 75 years, our customers have trusted Terminix Service, Inc., for the best termite and pest control protection for their homes and businesses. With annual revenue of over $150 million, the family-owned and operated Terminix Service, Inc. is the tenth-largest pest control company in North America. Terminix Service, Inc. operates in South Carolina, western North Carolina, and the Central Savannah River Area of Georgia. Visit www.TrustTerminix.com or call 1-800-TERMINIX.

Homeware Essentials: How to Choose a Coffee Machine

Tea and coffee are the drinks of choice for many people today. Traditionally, coffee was made from granules, although in recent years, coffee machines have become more popular in Britain, and for a good reason. Coffee machines simply make a better cup of coffee. However, with so many models on the market, it can be hard to choose the right one. This is why we have put together the following guide; keep reading to learn more. 

Cafetiere/French Press

A cafetiere, or French press as it is sometimes known, is one of the simplest coffee machines. It is a glass jug with an inbuilt wire mesh that works as a plunger. Allow the coffee to brew for a few minutes before using the plunger to catch the grinds. They are relatively cheap and easy to use too. They are compatible with any ground coffee. 

Capsule Coffee Machines

These are arguably the most popular form of coffee machines. They use disposable capsules or pods to create the coffee. It tends to be one pod per cup. They are really user-friendly and convenient to use. The brand of the machine will limit your choice in capsule. There are pod recycling schemes which lessen the environmental impact of these machines. Luckily, OnBuy has a huge range of coffee-making machines, which includes a number of the make and models listed above. So be sure to check them out.

Coffee Filter Machines

A coffee filter machine works by allowing hot water to drip slowly through ground coffee into a jug or a cup below. Depending on the size of the machine, it can make large quantities of coffee too. They are perhaps more ideal for those who want to drink coffee regularly throughout the day or in a house where there are several coffee drinkers. There is a range of models which hit all price points, and they again are compatible with any ground coffee.

Percolators

Percolators work similarly to coffee filter machines, although in the opposite way. The water is pushed up through a tube to brew the coffee in a jug above the water tank. They are also traditionally used on a hob, although you can find electric models. Percolators cannot keep the coffee hot for a long time, and they also may overflow. They do make a great cup of coffee, but they tend to be quite strong. They again range in price and can be used with any ground coffee.

Espresso Machines

In essence, espresso machines are essentially smaller versions of the machines that baristas in coffee shops use. Depending on the model, they may also have a number of other features to explore, like milk frothers and different settings too. They can be tricky to master, and depending on the model; they may require a bean grinder. Some of the models are on the more expensive side, but you can still find affordable options. The type of coffee required would depend on the machine and whether you need ground or whole beans. 

How to Choose?

Your choice will depend on a number of factors, including your budget, the size of your household, how much time you have and what type of coffee you prefer. This is why doing research is key. You might even want to consider the aesthetics of your home and which machine will go best with your kitchen and general interior design style. 

Tips to Ease Muscle and Back Pain Without Any Drugs

Muscular and back pain are common ailments that affect people of all ages and lifestyles. While medication can provide relief, it's not always the best solution. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to deal with pain without relying on medication. In this blog post, we will explore six detailed ways to deal with muscular and back pain without taking medication.

Stretching and Exercise

One of the most effective ways to deal with muscular and back pain is through stretching and exercise. When we experience pain, our first instinct is often to rest and avoid movement. However, in many cases, movement can actually help alleviate pain by improving blood flow and promoting the release of endorphins - natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body.

Stretching and exercise can help reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility, which can alleviate pain in the back and other muscles. Yoga, for example, is an excellent practice that combines stretching and gentle movement to alleviate pain and improve overall health. Additionally, targeted exercises that strengthen specific muscles can help prevent future pain.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat and cold therapy are simple yet effective methods for dealing with muscular and back pain. Heat therapy, such as using a hot water bottle or taking a warm bath, can help increase blood flow and relax muscles, reducing pain and stiffness. Cold therapy, such as using an ice pack or cold compress, can help reduce inflammation and numb pain.

When using heat or cold therapy, it's important to be cautious and avoid applying heat or cold directly to the skin. Always wrap a hot water bottle or ice pack in a towel or cloth before applying it to the affected area.

Use a TENS Unit

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) is a therapy that uses low-voltage electrical currents to help alleviate pain. TENS units like the ones from AUVON are often used to treat muscular pain and can be an effective alternative to medication. When applied to the affected area, the electrical impulses from the TENS unit stimulate the nerves and help reduce pain signals to the brain. 

TENS therapy can also help increase blood flow and promote the release of endorphins - natural pain-relieving chemicals in the body. Additionally, TENS units are easy to use and can be used at home, making them a convenient option for people with chronic pain. Overall, the benefits of using a TENS unit for muscle pain include pain relief, improved blood flow, and a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option. It is super convenient for while you travel or are at work. Find out more at the AUVON store on Amazon. 

Massage

Massage is a great way to reduce pain and promote relaxation. Massaging the affected area can help increase blood flow, loosen tight muscles, and reduce pain and stiffness. Additionally, massage can help reduce stress and promote overall wellness.

There are several types of massage that can be effective for muscular and back pain, including Swedish massage, deep tissue massage, and trigger point massage. It's important to find a qualified massage therapist who understands your specific condition and can tailor the massage to meet your needs.

Mind-Body Techniques

Mind-body techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing, can be effective ways to reduce pain and promote relaxation. These techniques can help reduce stress, which can exacerbate pain, and promote a sense of calm and wellbeing.

Meditation involves focusing your attention on your breath or a specific object, helping to quiet the mind and reduce stress. Deep breathing, also known as diaphragmatic breathing, involves breathing deeply and slowly, which can help reduce tension and promote relaxation. 

Posture and Ergonomics

Poor posture and ergonomics can contribute to muscular and back pain, so it's important to pay attention to your posture and make changes if necessary. Sitting or standing for long periods can put strain on the back and other muscles, so it's important to take regular breaks and stretch throughout the day.

Additionally, it's important to ensure that your work environment is ergonomically designed to support good posture and reduce strain. This may involve adjusting your chair or desk height, using a standing desk, or using a footrest to support your feet.

In conclusion, there are several effective ways to deal with muscular and back pain without relying on medication. Stretching and exercise, heat and cold therapy, massage, mind-body techniques, and posture and ergonomics can all help reduce pain and promote overall wellness. If you're experiencing pain, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.