I recently participated in a local “Green Event” in Port Jefferson, sponsored by SUNY Stony Brook Center for Humanities and the Village of Port Jefferson. There was a ‘green’ fashion show, demonstrating how to re-purpose old and/or damaged clothing items to get new life out of them. There were lectures about how to be more mindful in buying products and recycling garbage and how the Village of Port Jefferson is committed to improve recycling procedures.
Vendors and Attendees at Event
Port Jefferson High School students along with the Port Jefferson Free Library, local green businesses and Audubon participated in educating attendees.
One of the most moving aspects of the event was the passion that exuded from the exhibitors and attendees. What was once on the fringe is now definitely becoming mainstream: people, finally, understand that we need to change our destructive habits. It takes all areas of the community to work in support of this idea: from the Village government, to the Library, to residents and business owners. We all need to take responsibility and do our part.
I was there with my consulting firm Luminous Spaces, to educate about green renovation and creating healthy spaces using Feng Shui principles. With samples of green textiles and green renovation information I spoke to residents not only about a concern for the earth, but a concern for human physical and psychological health. Feng Shui practices look to create balance and harmony, therefore reducing stress.
One of my clients, Arame Salon & Spa, also exhibited. A local business in Port Jefferson Village, they have recently gone “green”. The owners, Phyllis & Ron Schlumpf, have taken a huge step in reducing their impact on the environment. I have worked with them to do a green renovation of their salon, using principles of Feng Shui. With renewable and sustainable cork flooring, low VOC (volatile organic compounds) paint to improve indoor air quality, and bamboo wall covering, they created a treat for the senses while being environmentally conscious. Recently signing up to be an Aveda salon, they now carry all-natural, organic hair and body products and even recycle the hair for compost!
The next event is Saturday, May 23rd, called Green Fest! It will be an outdoor fair on East Main Street. Anyone interested in participating can contact me at maureen@luminous-spaces.com. We need sponsors and vendors!
