Melanie Lulue

I guess the better question is what does impact investing mean to me? I plan to only invest or work with companies that have a true belief in sustainability. Do they walk the walk or just talk the talk?  What is their actual proof of sustainability?  We must all change our way of thinking and work towards better care of our environment.  Our office does recycling and many of the businesses downtown practice it too.  However, the Mayor, who is a big fan of recycling and sustainability doesn't enforce it for all companies to practice recycling. I know we have companies here in Florida and other states that actually recycle products and they aren't shipped overseas, but not everyone is aware of this. As with anything education is key and the media is notorious for only telling part of the story.  When was the last time you researched recycling centers (not transfer stations) near you? Recycling is only part of sustainability, but it is a big part with all the waste going to landfills or worse into the ocean and our drinking water. The city I live in did have recycling of a few items and enhanced it last October to almost all recyclable items, only to cancel it completely in February.  I now collect the items to take it to the closest transfer station, but i researched it first to see if the products would be shipped or recycled locally. We really need everyone onboard with recycling, and not just individuals, but companies to make reusable items with recycling. Are you doing your part and do you practice impact investing?  Do you only support companies that practice sustainability?  If we all work towards impact investing then those companies that don't practice sustainability will have to get onboard or move along! Think about it!

I believe those most affected by environmental degration and/or environmental irresponsibility are the homeless population living in downtown Orlando. Most of them get little to no relief to the outside elements which also subjects them to large amounts of air pollution. I've seen the homeless sleeping in church doorways and under overpasses and they are constantly breathing in emissions from vehicles. Many of them are also barefoot and their skin can absorb pollutants in the soil. Homelessness is a huge factor everywhere, but is more prevalent in large cities and Orlando has their share. 

Pollinators are vital for the food we eat and the trees needed for fresh air. Planting pollinator friendly plants will provide them food and allow them to help humans too.

Promote recycling and composting - Makes for less trash and natural fertilizer and chemical free!

I collect the plastic bags from Walmart and take them back for them to recycle.  I also take any others I may get from shopping since not everyone is using the reusable bags and Walmart will recycle all of them.