Page 4 - Living Gems Thrive | June 2024

Safeguarding the

environment

Sustainability key to a

healthy future for all

Sustainability is the ability to maintain or support a process
continuously over time, and that is exactly what Amber by Living
Gems homeowner Sharon Martin strives to achieve every day within
her own environment.

The mother of six children and grandmother of six, who is originally from
Wollongong, south of Sydney, believes caring for the environment and adopting
daily sustainable practices, is the greatest gift anyone can give to future
generations.

“We need sustainability for our health and the good of the environment, and
taking action now is going to be so important for our children, their children, and
families in the future,” she said.
Sharon, 58, said practicing environmental sustainability helps to preserve our
natural resources and uphold the ecological balance, all while safeguarding the
welfare of both present and future generations.

“Communities like ours that incorporate sustainable practices can benefit from
cleaner water and air, and reduced exposure to toxins, which can ultimately
lead to fewer health issues and an overall better quality of life,” said Sharon.
She said there were many ways people could help the environment.

“Using energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources are a couple
of things I do. Plus, people could also choose cleaner modes of transport like In addition, she is keen to keep
cycling where possible, all of which will reduce their carbon footprint.” stingless native bees which are known
Other options include using products that are made of biodegradable or to be essential for our ecosystems
recycled materials and limiting waste by practicing the principles of ‘reduce, and great for the environment.
reuse, recycle’, as well as being mindful of water and energy consumption. “When I was young, my dad and
Sharon makes a habit of turning off power points and switches in the meter box uncle were both beekeepers. Bees
when not needed and admits to being frugal with her use of electricity, including are great for many reasons. They
switching the lights off when she goes out. aid in the pollination of plants and
crops and are champions of cross-
“Creating habitats like gardens can also support biodiversity,” said Sharon, who pollination. Keeping bees also helps
likes to grow her own herbs, fruit and vegetables. She is also keen to see the other fauna and flora to flourish by
establishment of a community garden in the near future. providing nectar and pollen, which
Sharon supports the residents’ bottle recycling service at Amber by Living in turn helps them to reproduce and
Gems. build healthy populations.”
4 Thrive