Imagine life with no electricity, no cars or public transportation, no “new” products, no plastic, no computer, no elevators, no TV, no cosmetics, no take-out or processed foods, no coffee (what?!?!) Think about taking those things away for just one day… now imagine you’ve just given them up for an ENTIRE YEAR!!! (I think I just stopped breathing!)
Well, that is exactly the experiment that was undertaken by the Beavan family in New York City… for one… whole… year! And this wild, yet amazingly environmental, journey was all documented in the film “No Impact Man”.
The dad was actually the initiator of this “whacko” idea, as his wife calls it. He dragged them, nearly kicking and screaming, to join him in his quest. His wife was admittedly a “TV addicted, high fructose corn syrup & caffeine lover” and had her fair share of concerns (wouldn’t we all!?).
I really don’t think there is a possibility that my family and I could even begin to scratch the surface of what they were able to accomplish, but I am so excited to see the movie because I know it will give me amazing ideas of how to give up some things I had never considered before. Colin Beaven even gives his top 10 eco-lifestyle changes on his blog… smart stuff!
If you’re in NYC or LA, the movie premieres today, with other openings soon to follow. But if you prefer to read about their experience, there is also a book, No Impact Man.
While they discovered that this project was undoubtedly environmental, they also rediscovered “life”… and each other. Isn’t that an experiment we could all benefit from?!
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It is truly very cool to read their story. I’ve been reading about them everywhere, so they really are raising awareness! Great works!
Green Fundraising Ideas – their story will be inspiring… even if we all pick up only a few more habits it will make a difference! I just wonder how much they have gone back to their old ways now that the experiment is “over!”
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