“Today the world is united in the fight against climate change. Today the world gets a lifeline, a last chance to hand over to future generations a world that is more stable, a healthier planet, fairer societies and more prosperous economies. This robust agreement will steer the world towards a global clean energy transition.”—European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker

Working together to make Mother Earth smile…one bag at a time

December 12, 2015, was an historic and transformative day across the globe. It marked the day when 195 nations agreed to work together to fight global warming and to create a better future for our children. Known simply as the Paris Agreement, the landmark measure was then formally signed by 177 countries on Earth Day, April 22, 2016.

Members of the agreement vowed to keep the planet’s temperature rise this century well below two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, with ambitious efforts in the works to limit that temperature increase even further to 1.5 degrees Celsius. Echoes of hope and solidarity reverberated across nations who represented different races, religions and governments.

We all know we can’t dwell in the past and erase the damage already done, but we can lay the groundwork for a brighter future by being proactive today.

The agreement signed in Paris made a profound and sweeping impact on our future and the environment we are creating, but many wonder whether or not their own smaller contribution will make a difference. John F. Kennedy during his administration said, “One person can make a difference, and everyone should try.” Just being cognizant of what tragedies global warming is causing and making the decision that you will do something to help the planet is your first step toward making a difference.

Your next step might be to take another small step toward reducing waste. Next time you’re in the grocery store, think about the plastic bags many use to tote their groceries home. They are not durable, often break at the slightest burden AND are not friendly to the environment--the wayward non-biodegradable objects often threatening the safety of marine animals and contributing to problems like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a floating island of garbage less than 1,500 miles from the California coast and twice the size of France or Texas. If approved this November, California will become the first state to officially ban these single-use bags being given out for free in stores and will pressure companies to manufacture more compostable, reusable plastic bags.

But there is an even better alternative.

Blackwood has developed something that remains consistent with its commitment to offer quality, durable and long-lasting products that make Mother Earth smile. Made of 100 percent unbleached cotton, Blackwood’s tote is absent of any additives or chemicals like polypropylene. Blackwood has even left off its brand name so that it has remained loyal to offering a completely sustainable, machine-washable product without sacrificing comfort, economy or beauty.

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.” At Blackwood, we invite you to embrace that challenge by perpetuating what those in Paris started and investing in your children’s future one small step at a time.