PinoyEcoFarmer

We found this old book (The Green Consumer by John Elkington et al) at Booksale in SM Dasmarinas while scanning their shelves. The book was published back in 1990 (more than 18 years ago) but I noticed that most of what is written are still applicable today.  We still face the same concerns and the book has been reminding us that “we can buy products that don’t cost the earth.”

The product tips cover groceries, baby products, appliances, cosmetics, gardening supplies, gifts and an array of other consumer goods.

Above: The section on Garden and Pet Supplies

What interested me most was the gardening section because I can get some useful tips from it and apply them later. The opening statement states that “there is nothing more green than growing a garden. Whether it is a window box hanging from an apartment window or an acre behind your house, gardens provide a host of benefits for your psyche and your refrigerator.” I definitely agree.

Above: The natural garden remedies section

Part of the section includes natural remedies for plant pests and diseases. Some are proven techniques like introducing insect-eating insects. These are “good” bugs that feasts on garden pests. Other recommendations include the use of homemade sprays derived from onions, garlic and chilies.

The book is quite a steal at only P40 considering the wealth of information we can get as farmers/gardeners and consumers in general to help our planet. About two decades ago, the book told us to “Be a green consumer today and help save the earth for tomorrow.” I  hope that we do a better job of doing it this time.