Part of a series featuring green moms, the new Chief Eco Officers.

Christine Escobar writes the Green Parent Chicago blog as a welcome harbor for Chicago-area parents interested in natural family living and caring for the environment. She focuses on natural birth, breastfeeding, organic and vegetarian nutrition, alternative education, non-traditional families, home schooling and environmentalism.

How do you eco?

Right now, we’re trying out vegetarian meals and it’s been successful. We recycle; bring our own bags and water bottles; avoid chemical cleaners, disposable products, paper towels and excessive packaging. Whenever we can make something by hand or from scratch we try to make the time to do that. We also try to buy recycled or used items. We donate as much as we can as there is always another family who could use things taking up space - like clothes, toys, books and furniture.

Why did you go eco?

Since our kids were babies we’ve had a philosophy of doing more with less and have embraced natural parenting practices like breastfeeding and cloth diapering. Now that they’re older, simple living and homeschooling allows us to be more creative with our resources. It seems like the right thing to do for them, our family and the environment. It made more sense to us than other ideas. It’s important for our children to consider how their actions effect others, whether it be other people, animals or plants.

What’s your favorite eco tip?

You can be happier and enjoy life more with less. We certainly have our share of toys, clothes and stuff. But now when I shop, I ask whether this something we really need, already have something similar and what purpose will it serve in our house. There are so many ways to enjoy your day when you have children. Don’t waste time maintaining and cleaning possessions which cuts into time doing more important things as a family.

EcoLinks

• Green Parent Chicago
• The Green Baby Guide
• How Can I Recycle This
• Chief Eco Officers
• HomeEco
• PlayEco