Extra, extra, read all about it — America is made in China! Thanks to the corporate heads flying over countries waging the next swoop of people willing to work for low wages. All while polluting the planet with ignorance.

We, the people, put our trust in corporations and public servants to make decisions that are not only in our best interest but in the best interest of humanity, wildlife and the planet. Unfortunately, our trust is taken advantage of and we heavily pay the price.

So what can we do to make a difference, however small? Here are 5 ways to pave your path to making a difference in your life and life on Earth.

 1. Organic Cotton

Work towards making a choice to go organic. This way you know that there are ethics entwined in the fabric you put on your body. Large corporations, like Monsanto work very hard and spend lots of money to mass produce; using chemicals that don’t test well with animals or humans. Gas mask anyone?

Texas has the largest cotton patch on the planet. According to the Texas Observer, 91% of the cotton is genetically modified, containing the good ole’ roundup ready chemical that has been tested to cause liver failure in rats. Oh, that’s nice. And to think, the beautiful Texas terrain surrenders nature and genetically modifies cotton only to ship it off to be turned into clothing made by another country. That’s original.

2. Made in the USA

Though this is not easy since over 90% of our clothes and shoes are made in some other country, try to buy fabric, clothing, and shoes made in the USA. It’s not a country standard, it’s a community standard. In buying clothes, shoes and items made in the USA, you’re supporting your community, the people who share the same land as you. Together everyone shall flourish.

3. Sew, a Needle Pulling Thread

Our society is fast paced and industrialized; however, take time to think about sewing. If you have children, learn how to sew with them. Most cities have learn to sew shops and also stores like JoAnn’s, have classes that teach you how to sew, which is a really fun idea for family quality time. You can also find organic USA made fabric at JoAnn’s for great prices and save some money using Coupon Chief.

Learning how to sew can save many pieces of clothing and the better you get the more you can do. America really needs a style all of it’s own by way of having access to good quality fabric, plus the knowledge and motivation to create clothing from it.

4. Don’t Over-Consume

The market and media has us tube feed with the drive to buy. Shop, shop and shop some more. We are programmed through television, magazines, digital media to buy. While, we have necessities, this country is at an all time high for over consumption. A very bad habit that must be broken. Not only for your wallet but for the environment.

The fashion industry is the 2nd most polluted industry in the world. Dyes, transportation, and the trash clothing that is piled up in some field is growing so fast that this should scare the living daylights out of you. You will look at your wardrobe and say, “I can get away another season without buying too much“.

5. Support Handcraft

Support local hand crafters. This is one of my favorites because you have total access to them and are able to ask questions about their practice and where they stand with supply and craftsmanship. You know when you buy a well made product from someone who’s apart of your local community, you’re not  only benefiting from the product but you’re providing for their family. It’s a win win.

Final Thought

While this all sounds about right, it’s not as easy. We are surrounded by money hungry corrupters and sometimes we haven’t a choice to buy from an ethical source every time. But what you can do is keep in mind and plant the seed of knowing what’s right and taking small steps to make a difference.