By now, you have probably heard of the U.N. report that predicts catastrophic climate change happening by 2040, i.e. within the next 20 years (and if you have not yet heard of it, read it here). This is not just some abstract thing that is going to happen in the far-off future, it’s happening now and within our lifetimes. We have a choice before us: to continue without changing and face disaster, or start working to save ourselves and this world for future generations. You are probably thinking: this problem is so huge, how can I make a change? One thing we can all do is reduce consumption of resources, and to do that means a change in our mindset: keeping in mind the resources it takes to make a product, and what happens to a product when we have finished using it. The major side-benefit of this is that you save money by buying less! It is a win-win, for your bank balance, and for the planet. 

I have pledged to use all my resources to effect positive change and part of that is continuing with my library talks. I have two seminars scheduled at the Toronto Public Library’s North York Central location, the first of which is next Tuesday, October 23, and the second on November 13. They are part of the library’s “Our Fragile Planet” series, which focuses on the environment and sustainability issues. 

“The Real Dirt on Beauty Products”
Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2018
Time: 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
Cosmetics and beauty products have been vilified for containing “dirty” and “toxic” ingredients. Is this really true? I am going to be going through the science of these ingredients and what is known about them, based on the latest research. I will also be talking about known toxins and ways to mitigate exposure.

“Natural vs. Synthetic Beauty Products: Sustainability issues”
Date: Tuesday, November 13, 2018
Time: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Are natural beauty products better than their synthetic counterparts? Do you really need to use several different products for a skin care regimen? What happens to the packaging when a product is used up? I am going to discuss the myriad issues surrounding the sustainability of beauty products, along with suggestions on how to reduce the impact on the environment.

The North York Central Library is at 5120 Yonge St., Toronto, Ontario. Underground parking is available. Closest subway station is North York Centre station, on the Yonge subway line. Admission is free as always.