The Not So Supportive Family

An interesting point was brought to my attention recently.  Many people deal with families that are not supportive of a "greener" lifestyle.  We all know that it's important to apply the three R's (Reduce, reuse, recycle) to our lives, but the reality is that many people are uncomfortable with making these changes, and some even scoff at the notion of an environmentally responsible lifestyle, muttering things like, "Hippie treehuggers..."

It can be daunting.


This response to environmental responsibility isn't at the same level as it used to be, and for the most part, people respect the notion.  Respecting this lifestyle and being actively supportive of it, however, are two entirely different things.

So what do you do?

Most people that aren't supportive of green lifestyles tend to not understand them, and even think they're less comfortable while being more expensive.  This, obviously, doesn't have to be the case.

They need to know what benefit there is for them.  Not the world as a whole... they've heard that so many times that they can probably quote the arguments verbatim.   If you try this approach, you're wasting your time, as well as theirs.  Think about it:  If people with PhDs in environmental science can't convince them, what makes you think you can?

When you see an ad for an organic skin product, is the emphasis on how much it helps the environment?  You probably want to say yes.  That is, after all, mentioned.  The reality, however, is that they tend to promote themselves by way of how good these 'natural' and 'non-chemical' products make you feel.  They talk about natural softening, no harsh chemicals, etc.  This isn't meant to make you feel like you're saving the world (unless you want to feel that way).  They're meant to make you feel good about, well, you.

Likewise, this is what needs to be done with a family that is not supportive of your efforts.  Tell them about the benefits to them, specifically.  One thing you can tell them about is the money they'll save.  That's a big one for most people.  Being "green" is thought of as expensive, probably because the more trendy (and, in my opinion, less responsible) route is more costly.

That's the main point that appeals to just about everyone, but there's more that you can do, based off of the personalities in your family.  Does one member like to garden?  Talk about the benefits of composting.  Is one of them crafty?  Show them how to make a lantern.  The possibilities are endless.  You just have to match the project to the personality. 

It takes time, but in the end you can win them over.  In the beginning, a family that doesn't support your greener lifestyle can make things very difficult, but with time and a little effort that can change.