I took virtual tours of J.P. Mascaro & Sons TotalRecycle MRF in Birdsboro, PA, the CSWD MRF in Williston, VT, and the Miramar Landfill in San Diego, CA.  I learned that MRF is pronounced "merf".  I also learned that MRFs consists of several screens and sorts to separate recyclables.   The Old Corrugated Cardboard (OCC) screen separates out OCC based on its large size and rigidity.  The Glass Breaker screen separates out glass.  The Office and NewsPaper (ONP) screen separates "fiber" from containers.  Four autosorters sort out 2D sheet paper / 3D box board, PET plastics, HDPE plastics, and PP plastics.  Overbelt Magnets pull out ferrous metals.  Eddy Current Testing identifies aluminum.  Finally, Balers create bales of most of the aforementioned materials, which bales are sold to manufacturers who will use them to make new materials.

Supporting minority businesses will benefit our society and help them to establish strong businesses for our future.

I found out that I can take all the Styrofoam in my shed that I could not through away to my local transfer station. 

I don't fill my kitchen garbage can as often. I will use my compost for garden plants.

We reconditioned our backyard this year and, in the process, I had bark chips added. This fall, we had an abundance of mushrooms pop up. I, personally, love mushrooms. So, I spent some time learning about what mushrooms are edible, tasty, and environments where I can find some delicacies. I'm still searching, and look forward to learning more about Oregon forests.

Balance with respect to creation means we don't do too much or too little.        It may or may not be good for an ecosystem if mankind introduces a species to it or increases or decreases the number of species within it.        It may or may not be good for an ecosystem if there is a fire.      Balance demands that mankind understand Earth's reaction to actions that we take or not.   So balance is important to sustainability, because a lack of it can impact mankind as well as other life on earth.

yes, to reduce my carbon footprint, I need to travel less, get more energy efficient car or hybrid next time.

With the modern global food systems, generally food production involves chemicals and genetic modifications.  Also typical consumer's access to food is dependent on transportation from a far away place to a local retailer, which implies dependence upon fossil fuels.  Food sovereignty puts food production in the hands of the local community, which results in organically grown food that is readily available without transportation from a far away place.

Being heard is one thing, knowing that you've been heard gives you a sense of importance in the world. To not hear another is to discredit issues that are important. Whether you agree or disagree with what is said, a person's right to say something should be validated.
Voltaire: I may not agree with a word you say, but I will defend unto death your right to say it.