Crawford College was the venue, recently, for the first of what will be many Sustainable Lifestyle Seminars organized by Kerry Dell, Presenter of the popular educational show on DSTV (channel 190) – EarthBeat.
Commenting on the show, Kerry explained “EarthBeat is about experiences, discoveries and the passions of a variety of people who are living healthier and happier lives by connecting more closely with nature – and saving money at the same time.” Kerry interviews people from all walks of life, including environmental, financial and health gurus who urge us to understand and connect with the global shift in consciousness in ensuring our sustainability on the planet. The show is produced by award winning TV Producer, Dr Sandy Herrington.
Guest speakers at the seminar included the Head of Birches Award winning Pre Primary School, Scilla Edmonds. Birches encourage children from as young as three to take responsibility for looking after the environment. The school has a permaculture garden where children grow and can pick their own vegetables and fruit, and they hold regular permaculture courses for other schools in the area. Recycled paper from the school pays for the children’s books. They have their own “farm stall” providing home grown vegetables and organic fertilizer to the public and they recently designed their own “sustainability bracelet” which can be used as a corporate gift.
Other speakers included Psychologist, Anneme Coetzee who gave a thought provoking talk on “Empowering ourselves by being present” Anneme explained that “people will respond positively to us if we send out a positive message. Sustainability is by taking responsibility into our own hands. We need to focus on what we want and we can achieve it.” She said.
Giving an excellent talk on the benefits of living in an environmentally friendly “off the grid” home was Green Home Owner, Jane Troughton. Her family home is made from green building materials, she harvests her own water, her decking is made from re-cycled plastic, she uses low energy appliances and the family uses an eco pool – made of natural material.
The final speaker was Integrated Health Specialist, Dr Hennie Palm who gave a talk on the effects of toxins in our environment. Said Palm “No one can avoid exposure to toxic chemicals altogether, but it is possible to reduce them significantly. Some fragranced household products; air fresheners, soap, toilet paper contain phthalates – known hormone disruptors. Exposure to phthalates mainly occur through inhalation, or through skin contact. Unlike the digestive system, the skin has no safeguards against toxins. Absorbed chemicals go straight to organs.” He explained that there are healthier choices.
Supplying healthier choices is Your Earth Solutions, the company that is run by Kerry and her business Partner Dumi Gqwaru. They produce and supply totally enviro friendly household products to the public and had samples available at the