Alenka Mali Squamish Photography

Category: SUSTAINABILITY

 

Our care for the planet does not end when we hope on the plane and leave our safe, eco-friendly neighborhood behind for a couple of weeks.

  • Maybe it’s not the helicopter trip, but your cheap burger.

    Maybe it’s not the helicopter trip, but your cheap burger.

    Sometimes I look around me and think to myself. How are we destroying the things that give us so much.

    My name is Alenka and I’m a freeride snowboarder and BASE jumper. I’m not perfect. I access the mountains I otherwise wouldn’t be able to access, with a helicopter or a snowmobile. They get me up to remote spots, where I experience sometimes out-of-body instances, completely overwhelmed with the vastness of the space, and being alone. Those moments help me gain perspective on how big the planet Earth is, and how small we are. 

    I’m inspired by those giant snowy peaks, reaching up like big cathedrals. In awe, I stand beneath them, humble. Splitboarding in those remote areas is a privilege, but I think it’s important to share my passion and my view of the world with others, because the best way to provoke change, is to inspire through passion.

    The impact of climate change on our local snowpacks and glaciers has been tremendously growing in recent years, and it’s one of those things that are silently happening behind our backs, and silly day-to-day problems occupy our minds enough to not think about it. I’m shocked to see the changes in the spots that I return to 4-6 years later and every time it hits me.

    I feel it. I feel it all happening. In moments of vulnerability and feeling small, it’s easy to believe there’s nothing I can do. But if I stay grounded. And connected to the Earth, connected with nature – that feeling won’t go away. And when I’m connected to nature, I also find myself acting and behaving in a more aligned way with how I want to treat the planet and do better in the future.

    It’s hard to feel the urge to explore, travel to new places, write heli access only lines on my line list – and feel like I could be doing more for climate change at the same time. So that thought process has inspired me to do more research and I found out the best thing we can do, is to educate ourselves.

    POW ~ PROTECT OUR WINTERS

    Protect Our Winters, is a movement started by Jeremy Jones, uniting athletes and outdoor enthusiasts, to advocate for policy solutions for climate change.

    Their initiatives have shown me, this isn’t a cut-the-heli-trip kind of a problem. In fact, transportation is very low on the list of factors that we can see as “problems”.

    So I did some research.

    According to the UNFCCC climate reports, transportation accounts for only 28%, whereas electric power (known to many as “clean energy”) comes down to 25% of all greenhouse gas emissions.

    About 65% of that is CO2, (carbon dioxide) – which is not necessarily the bad guy, as everyone deems it to be. It’s food for the plants. Plants need CO2, so they can produce oxygen. I watched an eye-opening documentary on Netflix called Kiss The Ground, where they explained modern agriculture in all its “glory”. The film delves into the relationship between American farming policy, politics, and illness. I highly recommend it, as it very closely relates to climate change as well.

    From what I understand, the Earth is going through cycles. Warmer and colder cycles and regardless of our existence, our planet would be warming up. By we managed to speed up the process to a very unhealthy level.

    Across the board, the most common human causes of climate change are;

    • Generating power. Generating electricity and heat by burning fossil fuels causes a large chunk of global emissions. …
    • Manufacturing goods. …
    • Cutting down forests for agriculture…
    • Using transportation. …
    • Producing food. …
    • Powering buildings. …
    • Consuming too much.

    Out of curiosity, off the top of your head – which one of those “causes” of climate change, would be the easiest to tackle, right away?

    Consuming too much? That is what brings me to the next topic.

    For the last year, my partner and I have been talking a lot about living from the land. And while a 100-acre property in the middle of nowhere appeals to us more than anything, we can practice that concept right now, from our rental home in a mountain town. Summer is easy because the veggies in the garden are thriving, cherry trees are rich this year and soon we will get some apples and blackberries.

    My partner decided to make his own liquor this year, just from what we get in our backyard. I had been making pastry, jam, and freezing fruit for the winter. Growing veggies, growing our own medicinal herbs, spices, and teas…

    The more we look around us, the easier it gets. We recently set up prawn traps in the ocean, and that saves us even more trips to the grocery store…

    As an athlete, the logo of the brand that sits on my jacket, board, or t-shirt goes a long way beyond which clothes I like to wear.

    The relationship between the athlete and the brand is a powerful driving force for the outdoor industry. It is equally important for a brand to choose someone that represents them well and truly, as well as an athlete to choose a brand that aligns with their social and environmental values. I believe that having a solid brand as your sponsor that is making a difference in the world, actionably taking positive steps towards climate change, and treating their athletes fairly, is more important than any paycheque.

    The alpine world is a place where we feel at ease, a place that gives us energy and inspires us. Who, if not us, is responsible for protecting it? This is something we aim to achieve with the production of fair, sustainable products. And with you, the mountain sports community – to protect what we all love so dearly.

    Ortovox prides themselves on their main principles on how they protect their people and Mamma Earth:

    ANIMAL WELFARE

    CLIMATE PROTECTION

    SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

    ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

    SUPPLY CHAIN

    DURABILITY

    I am proud to represent a brand that is fighting very hard against climate change, each year bringing in new initiatives and re-evaluating their current practices. Climate and environmental protection are the most obvious two, but supply chain and durability are what catch my eye the most. If you buy a jacket, wouldn’t you want that jacket to last as long as possible? Not only, it makes sense economically but it is also much more kind to the planet.

    A company that needs to make money, would probably prefer to sell you a new jacket each year. But a company that cares about selling durable products and keeping people safe and dry in the mountains, is the one that cares about the environment more than profits.

    I want you to think about this concept, next time you’re after a new piece of clothing. A good fit is important, but we directly vote with our dollar. Let’s support the brands that are doing good for the overall well-being of our planet,

    because that’s how we’ll make a difference.

    I like to share with others what I think, not as much to educate but maybe provoke or inspire are better ways to describe it. There are many great websites out there, that everyone can access and educate themselves, by doing their own research.

    Here’s what I know:

    1. Staying connected to nature will make me a better person to those around me and my home planet.
    2. Growing my own food, like veggies in the garden and fruits in the backyard, prawn traps in the ocean, and buying eggs and meat from a local butcher, will make me consume less, and eat healthier and more whole foods.
    3. Taking a helicopter or a snowmobile up the mountain isn’t a crime and does not make me a hypocrite.
    4. Electric energy is not clean energy.
    5. If I really don’t need something new, I will try to thrift it or buy it second-hand or make it first. There’s enough trash laying around already.

    Until next time.

    Alenkis


  • Does my life have an impact?

    Does my life have an impact?

    Simplicity.

    It seems like in the world of chaos, my life is like the ocean on a dark stormy day. Between traveling, training, competitions and my own personal progression, I’m constantly craving more simplicity. But isn’t the word more, already the opposite of simplicity? Simplicity is less. Less of anything, makes it more simple.

    When we are on the ground, our days consist of running around, planning, dreaming, moving, rigging, taking down, packing up, packing in…

    When we are in the mountains, life is so simple. Survive. Eat, sleep, move. Rest, go, nourish.

    Wouldn’t it be nice to bring some of that down to our home sometime?

    My name is Alenka and I’m a competitive freeride snowboarder, splitboarder and I enjoy surfing, BASE jumping and climbing as a compliment to my lifestyle.

    I’m inspired to live through sports that make me feel both alive and connected to Mother Earth. Snowboarding, surfing, and climbing are to me just a form of self-expression. Being in the mountains means freedom. Freedom to roam, explore, and define myself. 

    Being that much closer to nature, I’m surrounded by like-minded people, who have inspired me to do better, and be the change I want to see in the world. 

    I grew up with 3 brothers, in a naturally very competitive environment. Both of my parents made their own marks in the world of alpinism, yet they always included us on their trips, expeditions and training. We spent our summers in Argentinian Patagonia, and the rest of the year roaming around popular European climbing spots. 

    I left my mother’s nest early in life and moved to Canada, searching for something different. I can’t tell you exactly what my dream was when I was 16, but I wanted to inspire. I saw a world full of chaos that needed change. Nature has been suffering for way too long, women in sports were not getting treated equally, respect was not given, where respect was due. It seemed like greed had taken over, and there wasn’t enough empathy in the world. I saw all those things, with my innocent young eyes through traveling and seeing the world, learning about different cultures and the sports that grew close to my heart. I was inspired. My heart was full of rage, angst that pushed me in sports, drive that motivated me forward! I wanted to do something about it, I just didn’t know what?

    It felt like a switch, new wind blowing in my direction. I realized something very simple. All I have to do is to live a purposeful life and make an impact, doing what I love. It turned everything around for me. I started focusing on micro-actions, on a macro scale. How can my day-to-day choices and lifestyle decisions contribute to my higher self and eventually, a better world. By being conscious, those actions and steps towards my goals became more meaningful. Therefore my life’s purpose revealed itself to me, without even trying.

    Over the years of trying new things, failing, succeeding, failing more and trying again.. I’m a firm believer that I always have to work hard for anything I want to achieve in life. Deep within us, we are all aware of what we should and shouldn’t do to be happy. We can always feel motivated and powerful enough to create and attract anything we desire.

    So I started doing. I organized beach clean ups in Bali, where I spent a few months of each year, surfing before the winter season. I held workshops in schools about plastic pollution and climate change. I organized night local’s markets because I wanted people to have a place where they can listen to live music and buy local goods at night, rather that sit in a bar and drink. I donated my time and resources to charities, designed websites for free, took photos, spread the word, offset my carbon footprint each year by planting trees… When I started competing and diving deeper into the world of backcountry, first descents and first female lines were achieved as a side effect of ultimately just doing what I loved. And soon after, messages from other girls rolled in, about how inspired they felt, watching my journey. I thought hmm,.. That is the feeling my mother gave my whole life, and other powerful female role models.

    Who can I continue to be exactly that, for those who need it?

    To see the change I want to see, I just need to be me, and the rest will follow. Make some noise, and people will listen. To this day, I am sometimes still questioned and doubted on my path, being far from traditional. I’m proud of my journey, even though it may be different. As a women in male-dominated sports I learned to have thick skin and hold my chin up high, sometimes even hold in those tears from running down my cheeks. You need to work extra hard, to prove yourself as a woman. It’s OK, I’m not here to cry about it. But I will call it like it is.

    My newest sponsor, is the inspiration behind this post. I found out about Branwyn because I simply LOVE merino wool products and I always use them for sports as well as for comfy lazy days. But what I found out later, is just how inspiring the owners are, and how determined they are in seeing the same change in the world, that I wanted to see.

    I feel very honored to be representing the brand. The products themselves are probably the best I have ever tried, but the brand is what truly matters! In this day and age, we have a very powerful ability to vote with our dollars. Where our money goes, it thrives. It is not about buying big, and all the time. It becomes more about spending the hard earned money for the right thing, towards a vision that you believe in.

    Stoked to be here.

    Alenka

    Cover photo by: Julie ~ Dakini Arts

  • 5 Ways You Can Do Better — Green Planet

    5 Ways You Can Do Better — Green Planet

    The idea isn’t to be perfect. The idea is do find something new every day, to do better! Little by little, we can hope to change the world, by changing the consumers and then the industry.

    In the follow-up of the World Oceans Day from this Monday, I wanted to continue the green train we have been riding and do another eco-friendly post. Discover 5 ways to do better today, for the better planet tomorrow.

    Read more: World Oceans Day 2020

    Have you thought about going zero waste, actively attempting to reduce your carbon footprint in the world? It involves more than just storing food in trendy mason jars, buying fresh produce at farmers’ markets, and making products from scratch. It’s a lifestyle dedicated to cultivating meaningful experiences and prioritizing environmental sustainability.

    Perhaps you’ve considered it. But without knowing the basics and getting some guidance, abandoning your dependency on plastic and the usual ways of shopping, cleaning, and eating can be pretty intimidating.

    And that’s totally fine, because I’m here for you.

    I’m hosting a ZERO WASTE INTRO 101 workshop on June 25th, 2020. Only me and a limited number of like-minded souls who’d like to learn with me!

    Join today, for a better tomorrow.

    Learn to say no to the little things

    Whether it’s a business card at a meeting, a straw at a restaurant, a plastic bag at the store, or a disposable pen from a conference, it doesn’t matter. Recognizing and denying waste — no matter how small — is crucial. Next time someone hands you something, think. Do I really need it?

    Start eating real food

    When it comes to the kitchen, — I advise you to cut back on processed foods and reach for the natural stuff. Start to eat real foods like fruits, vegetables, and anything that doesn’t come in packaging.

    I started to adopt a zero-waste lifestyle in 2018 after learning about the heartbreaking amount of plastic that winds up polluting oceans and killing animals. Now, I eat a lot healthier since cutting out packaged goods. It doesn’t mean I don’t still indulge in occasional cookies and crackers, making them myself of course.

    Tupperware is great, but not the best

    Have you ever left spaghetti in plastic Tupperware?

    After a couple of hours, the plastic is tinged red where the sauce has leached into the walls? 

    The reverse happens as well. When you store food in plastic, especially if it’s heated, this plastic wall will leach into your food. 

    BPA free isn’t safe either. Opt for glass or stainless not only are they two of the most recyclable products, but you don’t have to worry about contamination.

    Water bottles

    I mean, do I really still have to do this? I think I have been singing about banning the plastic bottles for a very long time. Four years maybe? And don’t get me wrong, the idea of banning the single use plastics hasn’t always been popular. My friends and people who knew me would always roll their eyes at me and call me a crazy hippie.

    We’re all very aware that plastic bottles are one of the most prevalent items in landfills.

    They have an incredibly low recycle rate and can only be downcycled. They will always wind up in a landfill. Here are some fun facts.

    They’re also one of the easiest items to replace in your day to day life. It takes 3 liters of water to make .5 liter of bottled water.

    It’s an unsustainable and unregulated practice. Get used to your tap water and refill a reusable bottle.

    There is a lot of attractive glass and stainless options. You can buy a stainless or bamboo cap for you Klean Kanteen.

    Composting

    Composting is probably the most important step of all. I found that 80% of everything I threw away could be composted.

    You may have municipal compost, but you can also make a backyard compost. Finding the right one for you may be a challenge, but well worth the effort. Food can’t break down in landfills, that’s the end of it.

    Newspapers from 50 years ago are still legible; hotdogs are perfectly preserved. Air can’t circulate properly to let natural things decompose. 

    Who do you want to support?

    Lastly, something I wanted to talk about for a long time. We are consumers. As we shop, we vote. We literally vote with our dollars. Where we put our money, that’s who we are voting for.

    The question is, who do you want to vote for?

    What is the ideal company you want to support, where do they donate their money, where do they buy the supplies, is it a fair trade, do they support athletes or organizations?

    A little research can go a long way.

    But I have done the research for you! — 5 brands that inspire you to do better.

    Ajna Wellbeing

    I’m super proud to take part in this holistic health movement. A mindful and intuitive way of healing and thriving.

    At AJNA, We don’t believe in “health” fads, and we don’t believe that chemicals, artificial ingredients, and toxic substances should be accepted as part of everyday life.

    In fact, we want to show you how good you can feel by using natural, eco-friendly products that ARE good for you and DO deliver lasting results, without harmful side effects.

    Our products are created with one goal in mind – a happier you. Whether it’s though increased energy, less stress, or pain relief, we believe that each of our products will bring more happiness to your life, and the lives of those you care about most.

    If you listen to the advertising and media, they will tell you that there’s a new miracle “cure-all” drug or diet every week. But, if we’re told is true, then why are most people more unhealthy than ever? Our Ajna (intuition) knows better. It knows that there are safe and holistic remedies to help you live life to your full potential.

    We are Ajna Warriors, and we nourish our bodies and souls!

    Shop the Ajnamat

    Bite Snacks

    With our help, Bite is going to pave a path towards a sustainable food system. For people, for the planet.

    Shop Bite and save 15% with the code “alenkamali”

    Suntribe Sunscreen

    BORN FROM THE LOVE OF NATURE

    Suntribe was started in Sweden by the three outdoor loving friends Karl, Hampus and Julia. We started Suntribe because we are upset with how the sunscreen industry works today.

    As it is now, you can use ingredients that are proven dangerous for nature and humans and it’s all perfectly legal. Crazy, right? Our mission is to contribute to change.

    That’s why we make worry-free natural sunscreens that are 100% free from synthetic chemicals and questionable ingredients. Just like it should be.

    OUR STORY

    Shop Suntribe Sunscreen + code “alenka” gives you 15% OFF your order 😉

    Nuit Nutrition

    NuIT started with the belief that good nutrition should be easy and enjoyable. For those consuming a plant-based diet, certain key micronutrients can be difficult to get. Taking multiple supplements every day is not working; it’s confusing, frustrating, and a huge hassle. We knew there had to be a better way, so we set out to create it. 

    Good nutrition is just one piece of the puzzle to improve our food system, human health and environmental sustainability. But it’s our focus, as we believe significant improvements can be achieved by shifting towards a plant-based diet.

    Moving forward, new research discoveries and technological innovations will offer immense opportunities for change, and finding ways to utilize them to make good nutrition more accessible is our ultimate goal!

    Shop Nuit Nutrition

    Mushroom Revival

    At Mushroom Revival our mission is to give people more energy, a better night’s sleep, a clearer mind, and a bulletproof immune system with medicinal mushrooms. Also by planting a tree for every product we sell, we not only revitalize our bodies but the body of the planet.

    Shop Mushrooms Revival

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    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini-course)

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  • World Oceans Day 2020: June 8th (Bonus)

    World Oceans Day 2020: June 8th (Bonus)

    This year, we are celebrating the world oceans day in a different way. It almost feels like in the midst of the world pandemic and BLM campaigns, we have forgotten about something even more important: our nature. Our society gets so easily carried away, with the trends of “good causes” and “doing the right things” that we sometimes forget about other “right things”.

    The result of the past events this year has almost put us back in square one. Up until the end of 2019, many big cities and even some states and countries were pledging to be plastic-free. A big movement over the last 2-3 years has put many leaders on top of the wave that led the world to a plastic-free society. But where our own desire for takeout food and drinks in the middle of the pandemic crossed the path, businesses had no choice but to go with the flow and almost backtrack a little.

    We have a voice.

    We can play a very important role in this fight both as individuals and businesses because plastic is such a big part of all of our lives. If you think about it, how often is the plastic part of your day? With things like single-serving meals, drinking straws, packaging, grocery bags, electronics, etc., the role plastic plays in our lives is vast and the results are scary. But the pandemic shouldn’t get in the way of this. I know, how important it is to support small businesses, trust me, I am running one.

    Act: But if you see where certain things can be improved, speak up! Share your ideas. If they are firm on takeaway as the only option, suggest compostable packaging, it’s not ideal but is a start.

    Read and learn. Expand your mind: The Good Trade

    Since its inception in 1974…

    World Environment Day (June 5) is the UN’s most important date for encouraging environmental awareness and action across the globe. Much like Earth Day, World Environment Day focuses on spreading awareness as well as on action and doing something to benefit the Earth. The world oceans day on June 8th (today) is a day to celebrate the biggest covering surface of the world. Our oceans. Much like the lands, our oceans are in great danger.

    As a very passionate surfer and environmentalist, I can speak for myself when I say, that it is very important to treat our oceans well. Many countries have been practicing ocean dump waste. (yes, is a thing) for years and while we cannot exactly know, how much trash there is, in our oceans, we know that there’s more than we can handle. It will take us years to try cleaning up. In the meantime, we are killing more endangered species out of our planet.

    Read more: Ocean Waste Dumping

    Take action for World Environment Day. As a business, you can already do a lot. And be a part of the fight to beat plastic pollution…

    Hey girllsss… this one is for you 😉 A ZERO-WASTE PERIOD. PERIOD. + WHAT YOU NEED!

    A lot of waste that ends up in the ocean comes from skincare and cosmetics. So supporting brands that are avoiding that / accepting back the packaging / encouraging you to buy less, is a good way to start. Many pads and tampons take years to properly decompose, and we certainly don’t have years! Check out the cup, if you feel like called to buy it, give it a try.

    Below are few ways to make an impact, starting on World Oceans Day

    1. Educate your team. Make sure everyone in your workplace and visitors know what can and cannot be recycled when it comes to plastic and encourage the use of reusables. You could even go so far as to ban single-serving disposables to really have an impact. With a small in-house campaign about recycling, you can spread awareness that can have a huge impact in your workplace and beyond. 

    2. Choose biodegradable materials instead. Plastic is often the easiest choice, but there are actually tons of solutions out there that are biodegradable and even those that do something good for the planet. For example, seed paper plantable promotional products can replace a variety of plastic-based materials used for businesses. And they grow into beneficial plants for the planet when planted.

    7 ways to a plastic free lifestyle

    5 WAYS TO TRAVEL WITH LESS WASTE

    Here are a few even more specific ideas for the world oceans day

    Use seed paper wristbands to replace the plastic kind at events.

    Try plantable packaging components or use biodegradable seed paper box filler in place of bubble wrap.

    Choose plantable shapes giveaways instead of pens or other plastic promotional giveaways

    Order Journals, Notepads, and Notebooks made with a plantable paper instead of plastic-based.  

    Things I stopped buying

    ocean-plastic-ocean-worlds-day-plastic-pollution-be-the-change-alenka-mali
    how to start a travel blog and make money from a travel blog - alenka mali - squamish photography
    how to start a travel blog and make money from a travel blog - alenka mali - squamish photography

    3. Send a message – If you’re making changes to benefit the planet, make sure to share that with the world. Occasions like World Environment Day are a great time to spread the word and connect with people on a very important topic.

    4. Host a cleanup. Nothing helps spread awareness and encourages change better than getting people outdoors to look for plastic pollution and pick it up. You could even make it a challenge of some sort to see who can collect the most.

    I know Parley TV has been doing a great job in cleanups. They came to Squamish and I helped them organize it a bit, and they also came to Bariloche! It is beautiful to see, how they use their impact to reach a big audience, all over the world.

    Check out Parley

    5. Buy in bulk. By buying things in bulk you are not only reducing the packaging materials, but you also reduce transportation emissions associated with deliveries. WIN-WIN!

    According to the BBC, as of 2015, approximately 6.3 bn tonnes of plastic had been generated. Only 9% has been recycled, 12% incinerated and a whopping 79% is accumulated in landfills and the natural environment.

    Learn more about the world ocean day

    TAKE ACTION — this year’s June 8th: World Oceans Day 2020

    The best thing I have learned in the last twenty-something years is that if we want to see the change in the world, we have to be that change. Take action and lead an example.

    Be a part of the talk — World Oceans Day

    You can extend the message by utilizing social media. Please use the hashtags #WorldOceansDay and #ProtectOurHome as ways to grow the collective impact.

    For 2020 World Oceans Day is growing the global movement to call on world leaders to protect 30% of our blue planet by 2030. This critical need is called 30×30. By safeguarding at least 30% of our ocean through a network of highly protected areas, we can help ensure a healthy home for all!

    Sign the petition

    7 PODCASTS THAT CULTIVATE CHANGE

    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    A video to watch for the world oceans day 2020

    Don’t feel like reading? Check out this expanding video:

    Pin the post:

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini-course)

    This post contains affiliate links – click here to learn more!
  • 7 Podcasts That Cultivate Change

    7 Podcasts That Cultivate Change

    I believe in the power of change. I believe in shifting believes, strengthening values, and constantly evolving. We are here in this world, to grow and expand as human beings, push ourselves and learn new things, as we go on, on this journey.

    Today, I’d like to share 7 powerful and expanding podcasts that cultivate and inspire change in the world. I have been listening to these shows for a few years now and I found them all incredibly expanding.

    Happy listening.

    Green Dreamer

    Green Dreamer is a podcast and multimedia journal illuminating our paths to ecological regeneration, intersectional sustainability, and true abundance and wellness for all.

    L I S T E N `

    Expanded with Lacy Philips

    One of my favorite podcasts, I’ve never come across an episode that I didn’t find expansive and rich with incredibly important information. Lacy teaches her manifestation techniques to many hungry souls around the world, and her podcast is that + more.

    L I S T E N `

    The Good Life Project

    Created and hosted by Jonathan Fields, The Good Life Project takes a real-world approach and features embodied teachers in every facet of life, presenting their views and methods on living a better life.

    These teachers have tried-and-tested systems for integrating more meaning, connection, and love into life. And they are the best in their field of practice — from Buddhist philosopher and professor Robert Thurman (father of Uma Thurman) to human guinea pig Tim Ferriss, author of The 4-hour Workweek and Tools of the Titans.

    This personal development podcast will nurture your progress with novel ideas from truly profound thinkers and doers.

    L I S T E N `

    Optimal Living Daily

    With a step-by-step approach to personal growth and development, host Justin Malik takes his listeners on an inspirational, motivational, and educational journey.

    Every week, the Optimal Living Daily podcast chooses a topic (like minimalism, productivity, strength training, and more) and features experts on the topic, as well as summaries of the best content on the internet, into an intriguing 10-minute audio clip.

    In the Optimal Living Daily blog, you can find supplemental information regarding the podcasts, including excerpts from books and online sources.

    L I S T E N `

    Get A Real Job

    Dan Bova, editorial director of Entrepreneur.com, chats with entrepreneurs with careers that their parents, teachers, and any sane person in their life can’t wait for them to quit and get a real job.

    L I S T E N `

    Your Own Magic

    …for the curious soul in love with creating + exploring your own magic. I met Raquel and Allie in Bali, back in 2018 and it was so sweet. Both of them are exactly what this podcast reflects. Open, warm, full of butterflies, and with such pure, childlike energy.

    L I S T E N `

    Tim Ferris

    You might know Tim from the 4 hour week book, I know him from his experiments with mushrooms down in California. Incredibly talented human being runs his own podcast! Not a surprise… and I really recommend it.

    L I S T E N `

    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

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  • Benefits Of Mushrooms + Superfoods For Sports Performance

    Benefits Of Mushrooms + Superfoods For Sports Performance

    I love looking for ways and discovering things to improve my snowboarding, surfing, and climbing. The way I move and perform, the way I can improve all of the sports I love, etc, I will never stop exploring this topic. And that is where these medicinal mushrooms take place.

    80% of our sports performance comes from our training and the right diet. I get it, it is the majority of the full circle, but what about the other 20%? Supplements, sleep quality, visualization, meditation, and yoga… it is all a part of it too!

    I know that mushrooms do not have the most appealing taste to our pallets, but their unique nutritional compounds and medicinal quality make them an imperative ingredient to any diet. Mushrooms helped my body build up immunity to toxins and viruses while sustaining my strength and focus during my workouts.

    Below, I have outlined the three medicinal mushrooms I discovered to be the most beneficial for me.

    Cordyceps

    Cordyceps mushrooms improve your aerobic capacity, endurance, and post-workout recovery. They have important properties in enhancing athletic performance by increasing the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood and increasing the synthesis of ATP – the energy currency of the muscle cell. This, in combination with high-antioxidant levels that counteract the byproducts of exercise, cordyceps enables athletes to train more effectively for longer periods of time, and recover more quickly.

    Cordyceps was introduced to the general public during the 1993 National Games in China when three of their athletes set five new world records in distance running. They were tested for the use of illegal drugs, but the tests came back negative. Their coach revealed that his secret was adding cordyceps to their diet because he knew its natural benefits to help improve energy, stamina, endurance, support healthy joints and cartilage, and sleep patterns. Improved performance is something we all desire within our sport or at the gym.

    Tip: To get my dose of cordyceps each day, I a couple drops to my morning smoothie.

    Shop Cordyceps Mushroom

    Chaga Mushrooms

    Chaga is highly sought out because of its ability to work with the body to support the immune system, eliminate toxins, stimulate the central nervous system, maintain skin color and elasticity, and promote a youthful look. It is one of the superfoods with the highest level of antioxidants (yes, it even beats out the acai berry), which helps protect cells from free radicals. This magic mushroom is also an important adaptogen, which means its compounds increase the body’s ability to adapt to stress, fatigue, anxiety, inflammation, and changing situations. If you are planning to enter the CrossFit Open, perform a triathlon, or enter a weightlifting competition, Chaga should be a daily staple to your diet.

    Shop Chaga mushroom

    Reishi Mushrooms

    There are six types of reishi mushrooms, but the most commonly used in the herbal field is the “red reishi.” It is often described as “the mushroom of immortality” because it is a supreme immune tonic. It helps strengthen your immune system to fight off toxins, viruses, and bacteria, and also improves your blood circulation. Along with cordyceps and chaga, reishi is another powerful adaptogen. Reishi also helps to lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar. Many Chinese athletes use reishi as a performance-enhancing tonic and mountain climbers use it to combat altitude sickness. This mushroom is great to add to your daily routine, especially in winter when viruses run high. Reishi has a very earthy and bitter-wood taste.

    Tip: I currently take it in the form of a tincture, but it can be brewed as a tea if you are brave enough.

    Shop Reishi mushroom

    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer

    Mushroom Revival plants a tree for every purchase you make with them! “alenka” for 15% off 🙂

    Once you learn about all the benefits of medicinal mushrooms, you may be wondering about the best way to add them to your diet. The easiest route is to purchase them in capsule form. The brand I have used and trust the most is Mushroom revival 🙂 I also buy mushrooms in powder form and add them to my protein smoothie or make a tea. There are also various raw chocolate companies that infuse their chocolate with medicinal mushrooms.

    If you are interested in trying out these medicinal superfoods, enter the code “alenka” for a discount at the checkout!

    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer

    If you begin using medicinal mushroom,

    I suggest taking them in combination because of their synergistic effect. This will enhance your immunity more than taking them separately. Also, buy organic medicinal mushrooms when possible because mushrooms tend to concentrate pesticides and heavy metals from the soil. As with any herbal supplement, it is always important to contact your health care provider before you add in multiple herbs to your daily diet.
    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer
    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer
    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer
    mushroom revival, mushroom adaptogens, medicinal mushroom power, alenka mali, squamish photographer

    I hope this article inspires you to play around with medicinal mushrooms and discover more of their magical healing powers. Have you tried medicinal mushrooms? Post your experiences to the comments below.

    References:

    1. “Medicinal Mushrooms: Information about Reishi, Lingshi, Shiitake, Shitake, Cordyceps, Maitake, etc.” Last modified 2011.
    2. “Mushroom Science: Medicinal Mushroom Benefits.” Last modified 2011.
    3. “Chaga knowledge: Chaga facts and benefits.” Last modified 2010.
    4. “Natural News: Studies show reishi mushrooms benefit people stricken with a variety of aliments, from high blood pressure to AIDS.” Last modified January 25, 2007.
    5. “Mushroom matrix: Organic medicinal mushrooms.” Last modified 2012.
    6. “Wikipedia: Beta-glucan.” Last modified January 16, 2013.
    7. “Wikipedia: Polysaccharide.” Last modified January 25 2013.

    If you are taking a vacation soon, I’d like to invite you to take advantage of this -65$ off Airbnb discount for your next trip! Enjoy it for me as well.

    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    What do you think? Share your health and active moments with me over Instagram! I would love to share them with my stories. And help me spread the word, by sharing this blog post on your Pinterest boards:

    And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest too!

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

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  • 18 Things I Stopped Buying — Zero Waste

    18 Things I Stopped Buying — Zero Waste

    A lot of people who want to reduce their waste could be overwhelmed by this list. It is not my intention to overwhelm you but to show you how many items that we often consider essential, are really not. All of these are things we spend lots of money on, use, and throw away in the garbage heap. As I like to say – trash I stopped buying.

    I’m here to show you, that you don’t need to do that!

    If you are feeling overwhelmed, I want you to take a deep breath and then exhale.

    Here are 18 things I stopped buying since going zero waste. And you can too!

    I’ve always wondered… how much money have I really saved since going zero waste?

    I don’t buy a lot of stuff anymore. I don’t buy anything that eventually winds up in the garbage; essentially I’ve stopped paying for trash, that’s all. (I found this article from the onion to be hilarious!)

    But, how much money does the average American spend on trash every year? I did some digging to find out. The average American spends almost $5,000 on products that are thrown away! That’s A LOT of money. Hell, that’s a vacation. (3 vacations for me and my low budget hippie mindset)

    • zero waste babe-alenka mali-squamish photography-trash I stopped buying-things we don't need
    • zero waste babe-alenka mali-squamish photography-trash I stopped buying-things we don't need
    • zero waste babe-alenka mali-squamish photography-trash I stopped buying-things we don't need
    • zero waste babe-alenka mali-squamish photography-trash I stopped buying-things we don't need
    • crystals-zero waste babe-alenka mali-squamish photography-trash I stopped buying-things we don't need

    1. paper towels and napkins:

    The average American family would have spent $684.50 on paper products such as paper towels and paper napkins.

    This is one of the larger expenses on this list. Thankfully, these paper products are so easy to ditch!  And switch to a reusable cotton cloth or kitchen towel.

    Reusable kitchen cloth

    2. tampons and pads

    This number was actually a lot lower than I expected. Feminine care products are always so expensive in my mind, but it was only a $265.00 expense. However, I am so stoked that I don’t have to buy these products ever again!

    Read more: A zero waste period.

    I never have to make an emergency run to the corner store. Plus, cloth pads and menstrual cups are so much more comfortable. 

    Reusables save you money, but most importantly they come without all of the not-so-good-for-you-additives like bleach!

    Ruby cup ~ my favorite menstrual cup

    3. aluminum foil

    I used to love aluminum foil. I’d wrap pretty much anything and everything in it. I used to cook with it a lot too. Over the years I’ve saved $60 by ditching it. That’s not too shabby.

    Sometimes I love watching Martha Bakes. Really interesting, Martha always advocates being wary of the aluminum foil touching your food and that it should be avoided.

    That always gave me pause. I’m glad I’ve ditched it. 

    If you’re looking for something to bake on try these silicone mats that my mom recommended me! If you’re looking for something to wrap your food in try these beeswax wraps.

    4. Plastic baggies

    I’ve never been a huge plastic baggie fan. I tried to reduce my exposure to plastic around my food well before I went zero waste. It was pretty shocking at how low this number was.

    The average cost of over a year is only $250.

    Now I use tote bags or go to the store with a backpack.

    5. Trash bags

    Trash bags are an expense I never have to worry about! The average American family would have spent $210. 

    If you’re still creating some trash, switch to a paper liner made from newsprint. Most of the wet garbage you have can be composted.

    6. Tissues

    Switching to handkerchiefs is one of my favorite swaps. I never have to worry about my nose chafing. Also, I rarely get sick. (had to brag about something in this post)

    Whenever they’re dirty, we just throw them in the hamper and wash them with the rest of our clothes. Switching to handkerchiefs will save you $75.

    As allergy season approaches this would be a great investment! 

    7. disposable water bottles

    We spend WAYYY too much on bottled water. It boggles my mind. If you don’t like the way your tap tastes, get a filter.

    Learn more about ocean waste dumping

    Flint, MI is the exception, not the rule. Bottled water is appropriate in times of crisis, but it should not supplement our laziness. Bring a reusable bottle with your when you’re out.

    I LOVE my hydro flask!

    8. conventional cleaners

    This BLEW my mind. I was reading this article, and it’s INSANE how much the average American family spends on cleaning supplies. Anywhere from $300-800 a year! I went with a conservative estimate and saved about $1260 over the past few years. 

    I honestly have no idea what you could possibly buy that would cost that much. Take a look at my favorite all-purpose cleaning spray!

    9. Face washes

    I used to spend soooooo much money on Sephora face cleaners, washers, toners, etc that promised me a lifetime of clear skin. Well, guess what, it didn’t work.

    Now, I keep my routine very simple and very natural.

    I use coconut oil to wash any makeup off my face, and shea butter + rosehip oil to moisturize my face before going to bed. That’s all!

    All of these, I refill at our local shop here in Squamish ~ Be Clean. No waste. All-natural. Supporting a local store. All of my favorite things, I love it.

    On days I am out adventuring, snowboarding, climbing, surfing… I wear a Suntribe sunscreen!

    Enter a code “alenka” at the checkout to enjoy a 15% discount + free shipping!

    10. plastic wrap

    I have never bought plastic wrap. I was always more of an aluminum foil girl. But now I use stuff like beeswax wraps or I simply store stuff in Stasher bags or taperware containers.

    11. beauty products

    There are SO many beauty products I’ve stopped buying. I’ve realized that I don’t really don’t need a lot of them. I don’t buy makeup “just because” anymore. Most of the products I bought were used only once or twice and never used again.

    Now, I just stick to things I know I like and use. I keep it to a minimum and I like it that way. I use makeup made from natural ingredients, support local companies and ones that don’t test on animals!

    12. convenience food

    This one blew my mind. The average American spends 30-40% of their entire grocery budget on overly processed convenience food. A conservative estimate is $7,215 worth of savings. 

    I no longer buy pre-made foods. I buy real food with whole ingredients. Not only is it great from a health perspective, but it’s also great from a savings perspective. 

    If anyone asked me for diet advice, I’d tell them to go zero waste. When you can’t buy food in a package, you’re buying whole fresh ingredients. You control the amount of sugar you put in your meals. No more hidden sugars and fats hiding in boxes and bags. 

    It’s just real, whole, good food. 

    13. Baking paper 

    – Grease/flour the oven tray.

    14. Takeaway coffee in disposable cups

    I now ask for coffee to be served in a ceramic cup in a café, or I take my own reusable coffee mug.

    15. Plastic straw

    Metal straws or go without. You are not 4.

    16. Gift wrapping paper/bags/ribbon

    I use beautiful squares of fabric, or I reuse gift bags and ribbons that we have been given.

    17. Milk in cartons or bottles

    I make my own almond and coconut milk in the blender and then I drain it. Simple. No bull****.

    18. Meat

    Stopped buying it. Why? Because the overconsumption of meat is a huge environmental issue, not to mention animal welfare. Not to mention, (yet I am still mentioning it) — how meat affects our health.

    I’m a vegetarian now. Huge money save. I feel better, more vital. I have more energy, I feel vibrant!

    If you are taking a vacation soon, I’d like to invite you to take advantage of this -65$ off Airbnb discount for your next trip! Enjoy it for me as well.

    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    Trash I stopped buying. Share the article if you find it useful!

    What do you think? Share your plastic-free moments with me over Instagram! I would love to share them with my stories. And help me spread the word, by sharing this blog post on your plastic-free Pinterest boards:

    And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest too! – Trash I stopped buying.

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

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  • A zero-waste period. Period. + What you need!

    A zero-waste period. Period. + What you need!

    Hi girls. This one is for you. A zero-waste period. Is it even possible? Yes, it is, a waste-free period is not only possible but also beneficial for many other reasons!

    Here is why you should turn your “time of the month” into a zero-waste routine:

    Saving money.

    Minimizing the trash and with that your carbon footprint and environmental impact as a woman to a bare minimum (pretty much nothing).

    Choosing to support small businesses and companies.

    Making things very very very simple for yourself.

    Periods are messy. But not just in the way you think.

    While it is something completely normal and literally affects half of the population, it is still a bit of an off-topic to talk about, like sex or drugs. Even though girls have to deal with it sometimes from 10 or 12 years old, for a couple of decades. And the school system does not provide a very up-to-date education or sometimes nothing at all, about periods. When I went to school, they didn’t tell us anything about it.

    (we did get a condom and a banana lecture though).

    And most girls are lucky enough to have their moms or older sisters explain the whole “situation” of the deal, but some don’t! It is important to make it a part of our daily conversation and stop making such a tabu over the whole charade.

    Single-use menstrual hygiene products are a massive source of waste. (Zero waste period)

    About a quarter of all people menstruate, and with an average cycle length, there could be 500 million people on their periods at any point. So if they are all using single-use products, you can start to image the amount of waste that is being created just from menstruation!

    Before I start talking about what we can do to tackle some of this waste, I want to acknowledge something. Period poverty is real, and a serious issue. Many women, especially globally but also in the UK, can’t access sanitary wear because of their financial situation. In the extreme, this can lead to them missing out on education and opportunities purely because they’re on their periods.

    Unfortunately, some of the suggestions I make below are more expensive than normal period products. They are reusable so over time can save money, but that initial cost is sometimes too much for people with limited income to even save for when you’re struggling to buy food. So for anyone that is able to afford these products, let us be very careful to not criticize what we are not living through.

    Setting an example!

    My mom is actually pretty passionate about going zero waste and she’s been using a menstrual cup for way longer than this whole trend. She got me started on it and I thought, why not? I will give it a go. I did and I loved it ever since!

    I’ve used a menstrual cup for 2 and it has made my life (or at least four days each month) much, much easier. No more running to the store for tampons or forgetting them! And no more taking out the bathroom trash! And so on.

    Reusable pads for a zero-waste period.

    These are new to me and great. They come in a wide range of patterns, absorbencies, shapes, styles. It depends on your flow. Here are the ones that have caught my eye:

    – GladRags: The plastic-free pads pictured at right above are made from soft and comfortable flannel in a range of colors. They’ll omit extra packaging material upon request and ship products loose in a kraft paper mailer; I was so, so pleased to shake pads out of the mailer with no added packaging whatsoever.

    – Hannahpads: I rarely choose patterns when I could choose solids or neutrals. But Hannahpads are just so cheerful without being garish or twee; their patterns make me smile when I see them in my drawer. You can buy their variety of absorbencies as a single pad or a set. They fold up and snap for easy stowing in a purse, backpack, pocket, or palm.

    – SckoonPads: Reusable pads made from colorful patterns with a brown inner lining. They’re made from organic cotton and dyed with metal-free, low-impact dyes.

    – Reusable silicone Stasher bags can take the place of a single-use plastic bag for storing a used pad throughout the day. Perhaps choose a Stasher in a different color than the ones you use in your kitchen so you can always tell them apart.

    Reusable menstrual cup for a zero-waste period

    For me, this was the easiest transition. I am happy to show you the world of simple! I use Ruby Cup! I’ve never had any trouble with leaking, or that, I also think it is the simplest thing to use! But beyond the product itself, I am in love with their brand. The creators of Ruby Cup are really passionate about giving back to women!

    They are famous for their BUY ONE, GIVE ONE program.

    For every cup they sell, they donate one to a girl or woman without access to menstrual care products. A girl whose life will be drastically improved by this simple act of giving.

    You’ll be helping a fellow girl, as well as helping to reduce the negative impact that disposable sanitary products have on the planet. It just goes to show that when we all do something small, the changes can be huge.

    It’s time for a change. What do you say?

    Shop your Ruby Cup!

    • zero waste period-Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips
    • zero waste period-Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips-zero waste period-Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips
    • zero waste period-Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips-zero waste period

    How do you minimize your period waste? Let me know!

    If you are taking a vacation soon, I’d like to invite you to take advantage of this -65$ off Airbnb discount for your next trip! Enjoy it for me as well.

    ☽ Follow me on Instagram – @alenkaamali – to see more of my adventures ☽

    What do you think? Share your waste-free moments with me over Instagram! I would love to share them with my stories. And help me spread the word, by sharing this blog post on your plastic-free or green planet Pinterest boards:

    And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest too!

    • zero-waste-period-alenka-mali-squamish_photographer_squamish-photography-copy
    • zero-waste-period-alenka-mali-squamish_photographer_squamish-photography-copy

    #ecofriendly #plasticwasteissues #zerowaste #sustainability #recyclemore #plasticfree #vegan #organic #savetheplanet #sustainableliving   #ethicalfashion⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put. I’m one stoked girl! Ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability. And crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

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  • Here’s How These 5 People Are Doing A Big Difference For A Plastic-Free Planet

    Here’s How These 5 People Are Doing A Big Difference For A Plastic-Free Planet

    How these 5 people are doing a big difference in the world. You don’t have to be rich and powerful, you don’t need a big network. All you need is a will to make a change. If you look at Greta Thunberg, for example. A 16-year-old girl, skyrocketed the whole planet’s awareness about climate change and veganism, all by staying true to her beliefs and letting others know that is time to make the change.

    There’s something suffocating our planet. It’s light, multipurpose, endemic to our modern lifestyles, and has a half-life of a few thousand years. It’s called plastic and it’s here to stay. Literally.

    Plastic products will live anywhere from 1,000 to 1 million years. Let me give you a frame of reference for those dates. About a thousand years ago, paper and gunpowder were introduced. Europe moved into the Middle Ages.

    A million years ago, the Ice Age came to a close and Homo Erectus (our forefathers) started to walk upright and learned to use fire. So, if we calculate the life of plastic, who knows what our Earth will look like once all of the plastic we use is finally gone.

    I for one, certainly hope that we will still be walking on our back legs and using fire. But, we are smothering our planet in plastic waste. Couple that with our desire for Barbie-Esque air-brushed bodies and who knows if we might start to be created out of malleable plastic.

    2019. A lot of things have happened this year. Some people call it the year of VEGAN, some people don’t even realize what kind of massive changes we have achieved. Yes, we. Because when it comes to plastic consumption, animal product consumption and demand, we are responsible for it, as well as completely free to demand a change.

    I’m honestly so happy to be living in this day and age and take part in the revolution upon us!

    As for me, this year has also been a year of big changes and switches. I’m now proudly living a plant-based lifestyle, I make many things at home, including my own milk, yogurt, bread and I grow as many different vegetables as I can! I have really made a point of cutting down my single-use plastics, and I’m keeping it very simple. I travel with less and I live with less. I invest in long-term durability items and reusable utensils. I know I don’t have to be famous or very influential to inspire others, which is why I share quite constantly over my social media, and this blog, the thoughts, and tips that I come across about living a plastic-free lifestyle.

    And it brings me such joy when I hear someone say, that I was the one who inspired them to buy a reusable bottle or to always bring a tote bag to the store. My mission continues, and for all my readers, thank you for sticking with me, all this time!

    Read more: 7 Ways to Switch into A Plastic-Free Lifestyle

    Read more: Eco-Friendly Alternatives

    Read more: 5 Ways To Travel With Less Waste

    Young Ghanaian finds a solution to turn plastic waste into fuels to power cars

    In Ghana, the menace of plastic waste is a global phenomenon! Young Ghanaian start-ups have started an initiative to help deal with the challenge by turning plastic waste into fuels for usage and the project has received a GEFSGPGhana UNDP Ghana support to begin the pilot stage of the laudable initiative.

    Read more: https://yen.com.gh/130589-genius-ghanaians-turn-plastic-waste-fuels-power-cars-household-use.html?fbclid=IwAR1lLNP3q7nBEHGX6BWWVvclGAqh6GpNxWpDfkaI_zoQIDrBdp_H4OaHGr0#130589

    Friends at Plastic Free Fridays

    Plastic-free Fridays is a social media campaign that encourages others to go plastic-free for at least one day a week – Friday! Just to give it a try and see how it feels. It was started by a professional skier, Sierra Quitquit and supported by many awesome athletes in the snow and surf industry. By sharing daily tips, accepting others and being constantly aware of the progress over perfection principle, they had become one of my favorite plastic-free campaigns in 2019!

    “Our mission is to help significantly reduce single-use plastics consumption among individuals by raising awareness and shaping positive habits on a broad scale through education, awareness, and alternative solutions, while also working towards systemic change on the community-, corporate- and policy-level.”

    Follow @PlasticFreeFridays on Instagram

    Plastic Free Fridays (read more)

    • zero waste-plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle
    • zero waste-plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle
    • zero waste-plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle

    Plastic bags blow – Ross Mirkarimi

    Our buddy Ross was inspired by our global friends in Bangladesh who passed the first plastic bag ban worldwide. He brought the concept to the residents living in the windy hills of San Francisco. What better city than one populated with early adopter liberal activists to test the appeal of canvas instead of plastic.

    The city council member made national news headlines when he ushered through the passage of the first plastic bag ban in the U.S. It has since spread to all corners of our nation, home to both tea party activists, coffee party partakers and everyone in between.

    Be like Ross: Get involved today to ban plastic bags in your community

    Rising Above Plastic – Jordan Howard

    With only 18 years, Jordan is killing the environmental activist game! Her accomplishments are already worthy of a full-length book. As a senior at the Environmental Charter High School in Lawndale, Calif., this young greenie is an anti-plastic crusader.

    Not only is she inspiring, mentoring and educating people of all ages, but she is also putting her words into action. Jordan trained students on the harms of disposable plastics, presented solutions to environmental problems in her city, talked to Google executives about plastics and is the editor of “Green My Parents.”

    This media-savvy girl has been featured on T.V. shows and in films, and is featured in the new book “Girls Gone Green.” In between it all, she does her homework and adheres to her curfew.

    Jordan Inspires

    Tears for fears – Nandita Raj

    We’re going even younger now! Our third-grader Nandita Raj was fearful of all of the plastic destroying our planet. So scared in fact, that it drove her to tears. But rather than wallowing in misery, her tears drove her family to action. Her parents swapped plastic bags for canvas and despite the social chills this middle-class family endures from carrying reusable bags and containers with them, they’re committed activists now. How inspiring?

    plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle

    Taking it even further…

    Wondering what to do, where to start? If you are new to this whole plastic-free lifestyle idea, start here.

    It starts with education! Continues with a plan and proceeds with ACTION.

    Check out some of the most amazing resources on the internet:

    Plastic Pollution Coalition (click)

    That Sustainable Life (click)

    My Plastic-Free Life (click)

    #sustainabilityissexy TAG YOUR POSTS @alenkaamali (for a repost) Let’s make a difference in the world. Together.

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    • plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle
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    Did you like this post? Help me spread the word by sharing it with your friends and pinning it to your Pinterest boards:

    • plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle
    • plastic pollution-alenka mali-plastic free activists-making a difference in the world-plastic free lifestyle

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography, squamish local, lightroom presets

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  • 5 Ways To Travel With Less Waste

    5 Ways To Travel With Less Waste

    I was called to share my top ways of having less waste while traveling by my friends at Suntribe Sunscreen! We all have a pretty good idea by now on how to produce less waste while being at home. Composting, drinking tap water, using table cloths instead of paper towels, buying in bulk, etc. but what about keeping it low-waste when we hit the road?

    It might be a little harder to travel with less waste. Especially because we are so used to the convenience and spontaneous decisions! Well, traveling with less waste will definitely require some extra preparation and some additional thinking. But stay put, it’s worth it!

    Before we begin, let me point this out: zero waste traveling is technically impossible – the fuel used to get you from point A to point B creates waste! But it’s pretty easy to do your part to create less waste by being mindful of a few simple things while traveling. (and I’m not just talking about the waste that we see. I’m also talking about the diet we enjoy! Eating a plant-based diet significantly lowers your carbon footprint!

    Life Cycle Assessment and Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Animal Agriculture (video)

    EU agricultural emissions: On the table (video)

    Traveling with less waste. Here are my 5 suggestions we can all start utilizing today:

    Bring food in reusable containers!

    While this might seem like a pain in the booty, just think about all of the fast food and takeout waste that you’ll reduce by preparing your own meals and snacks. Not only that, but you can have all of your favorite foods while you’re away from home. Some of my favorite things to take along with me are dried fruits, veggie sticks, nuts and seeds, roasted chickpeas, and energy balls. I also tend to carry my reusable water bottle with me everywhere I go, and most cafes are happy to refill it for you.

    Eat at restaurants that work ethically.

    Dining at local and family-owned restaurants is also so good! You can always tell how much they actually care where their produce is coming from, usually sourced as close to home as possible and they also usually make most of their food right at the spot!

    Visit the local farmers market!

    Wherever I travel, I always love visiting the locals market. It is where the true magic happens, you get to meet interesting people as well as try the local goods! Bring your own bag, bottle or a cup if you want to try some drinks. Kindly refuse the extra packaging on the souvenirs that you buy =)

    Read more about supporting the local communities (click)

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    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-argentina-ways to produce less waste while traveling-travel zero waste-travel with no waste

    Pack eco-friendly toiletries!

    Shampoo bottles, plastic toothbrushes – all of our favorite beauty products are made from non-biodegradable materials like plastic, which is a huge burden to landfills. While you can recycle your empty bottles rather than toss them in the trash can, plastic can only be recycled once before it’s sent off to the landfill anyway, so why don’t we just avoid that altogether by finding a minimal waste alternative? Some ideas:

    Metal razors
    Bamboo toothbrushes
    Squeeze travel bottles
    Menstrual cup ~ I love Ruby Cup! (15% off till Nov 30th)
    Soap bars

    Take your bottle!

    Yes, I said it. Water bottles are one of the greatest pollutants in our oceans. It is the most simple thing in the world to take your reusable water bottle with you. I recommend the Hydroflask. It keeps the hot water hot and the cold water cold.

    Read more about ocean pollution and the biggest sources.

    Get your Hydroflask!

    And, a few more tips:

    Anything else that pops in your mind? Feel free to share! Meanwhile, check out my beautiful supporter ~ Suntribe Sunscreen.

    Use a mobile boarding pass

    Ask for receipts to be texted or emailed to you if possible

    Put your carry-on liquids in a reusable bag, or if you use a Ziploc bag, save it to use as many times as possible

    If you’re eating out, try to eat at a restaurant instead of on the go to avoid excess food wrapping

    If you’re staying in a place where you can cook, enjoy the experience of going to a local market and cooking a simple, fresh meal

    Why I love Suntribe?

    Mineral UV-filter (Non-Nano Zinc Oxide)

    100% free from synthetic chemicals, preservatives, and perfumes.

    Mineral UV-filter (Non-Nano Zinc Oxide)

    100% free from synthetic chemicals, preservatives, and perfumes.

    Certified SPF & UVA / UVB protection

    Mineral UV-filter (Non-Nano Zinc Oxide)

    Pure and rich formulas. Not diluted with water.

    Cruelty-free.

    Reef safe.

    Suntribe Sunscreen (website) ~

    If you happen to be in a search of a natural sunscreen, make sure to use the code “alenka” for an extra 15% off your entire order!

    What do you think? Share your plastic-free moments with me over Instagram! I would love to share them with my stories. And help me spread the word, by sharing this blog post on your plastic-free Pinterest boards:

    And don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest too!

    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-argentina-ways to produce less waste while traveling-travel zero waste-travel with no waste
    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-argentina-ways to produce less waste while traveling-travel zero waste-travel with no waste

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial photography

    Editing photos

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  • 7 Life-Changing Documentaries

    7 Life-Changing Documentaries

    As documentaries are grounded in true stories, they can inspire in a way fictionalized films can’t. The emotional impact can be more thrilling than any blockbuster because they’re based on facts, which explains their appeal. Here are 7 of the very best (in my opinion) inspirational documentaries you can find—enjoy!

    Feel free to screenshot these or save them as a pin in your must-see movies board on Pinterest! I truly believe knowledge is the best weapon, (or tool). Don’t want to sound too aggressive. I did watch these docs, some more times than others and I truly believe that I have put together an important list of movies that will change your life for good. Having a deeper understanding of certain things is important nowadays when we are being bombarded with what theory works and what tips to listen to, what to eat, and so on.

    Watch out, because these films are powerful, shocking, heartbreaking, and intense, and each will expand the horizons of the viewers open to learning more about the world!

    Marley

    Bob Marley remains a global superstar, and this documentary delves deep into his life to reveal a complex man with a natural gift for music. Poignant and thoroughly inspiring.

    Watch Marley the movie now

    Food Matters

    Yes. If there was ever a time to watch this, it might be now. What we put in our bodies matters, just as much as knowing where it came from! Knowledge is wealth. Health is wealth.

    Watch Food Matters movie now

    Woodstock

    “The 1969 Woodstock Festival has gone down in legend. What really stands out is the quality of the music on display; whether it’s Richie Havens, The Who, Jimi Hendrix, or Joe Cocker. It’s emotional music and it’s performed before an audience of 500,000!” When I saw the movie, it had changed my perspective on how I viewed the 60’s hippie era. I understood how they felt, I understand the innocence that once existed and it’s slowly fading away. I do recommend you to see the movie!

    3 days. Defined a generation.

    Watch Woodstock the full movie now

    • Woodstock, 1969. “Woodstock was not just the mother of all rock festivals, it was a photographer’s paradise.”

    Minimalism

    Living materialistically is, in many ways, living the American Dream — and that’s what our society wants us to believe. But ultimately, material items and consumption cannot provide us with long-lasting happiness.

    Watch Minimalism The Movie it now

    What The Health

    “What are the pharmaceutical companies not telling us? This documentary explores the dark side of drug companies and government collusion that is costing us big bucks and keeping us sick.”

    When I first saw that movie I was so shocked I cried and then I laughed because it was just like I saw the truth. I’m now watching it frequently, as well as recommending it to everyone who is thinking about transitioning into a plant-based diet. Now it might be a great time!

    (Tell you what. If you watch What The Health and still eat hot dogs and mozzarella sticks after, call me.)

    Watch What The Health movie now

    A plastic ocean

    Plastic is overwhelming our oceans and harming the creatures within. Two activists explore the environmental impacts of plastic waste and what can be done to fix the massive ocean pollution problem.

    Personally, this one fell very close to my heart. I’m so passionate about our environment, keeping the nature pristine and living a life with low impact. Unfortunately, we have been taking some wrong decisions in the past that our oceans, rivers, and lake are now paying for. Plastic pollution is getting more serious every year and realizing how our little daily choices make all the difference, completely shifted my perspective.

    Watch a Plastic Ocean The Movie now

    The Game Changers

    I saved the best for last. Oh my God. What a game changer this movie is! I have watched it a few times already since it has come out and I cannot believe how heart-shifting the story is. No matter what you are doing right now, drop it and go see the movie. Do yourself a big favor! And then brag about seeing it and recommend it to everyone you know (because that is what you will do, everyone does!!!)

    If you are an athlete, professional or amateur, I don’t care… This is for you… Improving in a sport we love, isn’t that everyone’s dream? Well, they might as well share a secret with you!

    Watch The Game Changers Movie Now

    Alright, but this isn’t it! I have included some YouTube videos you can also watch if you are interested in similar topics. (Sports, improvement, self-care, environment, arts). Enjoy.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipVrphmIIkQ

    PIN THIS POST. HELP SPREAD THE LOVE. XX

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    Follow me on Instagram: @alenkaamali

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

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  • 3 Easy Eco-Friendly Alternatives That Might Surprise You

    3 Easy Eco-Friendly Alternatives That Might Surprise You

    Zero-Waste

    Waste is everywhere. We are so accustomed to single-use convenience that our way of living evolved into a throwaway society. Because it is easy, convenient and simply it’s just there! We didn’t know better, growing up in this convenient world. It is time for change as alternatives exist. (and they aren’t hard to reach out to!)

    The single-use plastic problem

    We already know that plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose. A product with such a lifespan, mass-produced for single-use, only creates problems. From all the plastic ever created 12% has been destroyed by incineration and only 9% has been recycled. This means that most plastic (79%) finds its way into the world’s ecosystems endangering all life forms on earth.

    Luckily, different projects in the world are trying to clean up the mess we created. I spent the past year, trying out different products and looking for ways to make this work.

    Ocean Waste Dumping: The Scary Truth

    What is zero-waste?

    Since the invention of mass-produced plastic in the 1950s, a throw-away culture has evolved in which obsolescence and single-use are serving the best interests of corporations. In this throw-away culture, it is normal for a single-use item to be used for 10 minutes but to remain on earth for hundreds of years.

    60 years later, litter is everywhere to be found, wildlife is suffocating on plastic waste and countries do not know how to dispose of their trash anymore. There are so many types of plastic that recycling programs aren’t effective and can only deal with 9% of the problem.

    Zero-waste is a lifestyle that aims to reduce the waste generated on earth. It offers the simplest solution to pollution by tackling the plastic problem at its source.

    Zero-waste is rethinking the way we consume to avoid using products that will remain on earth for hundreds of years, after being used for only 10 minutes.

    Plastic Waste: 7 Zero Waste Alternatives

    The zero-waste movement is about finding beauty in simplicity. About doing more with less and refocussing on what is essential. The movement is made of a community of change-makers who all take small steps towards sustainability. Together we go step by step towards a world with less waste. Join the journey. Aim for progress, not perfection.

    At this point, I would love to point out that;

    I am far from perfect. I fly overseas many times a year, I drive a car and I don’t do everything in my power to avoid plastic-free grocery shopping. I mean, I would love to get tofu without a plastic wrapper, but it’s simply not available yet. And that’s okay. Because change is coming and change is happening. Every. Single. Day. When we shop for food or skincare products, we literally vote with our dollar! Yes. It is more powerful than voting for the right president, simply showing which company and what values you support, by choosing their product.

    And I am trying to do better, every day. I am aiming to do better. I strive for progress over perfection and I cherish every little progress of mine as a huge accomplishment. We can do it, together.

    I love when companies make sure to make it their mission of ‘Rethinking how we use our resources to improve our wellness and environment.”

    You probably consider yourself “woke” when it comes to the environment – you recycle, avoid bottled water and ensure you always read about the devastating environmental impact of plastic – but most of us still generate too much waste in our daily lives.

    Steps are being taken to slash our use of plastic bags and a zero-waste lifestyle has become, dare we say it, somewhat trendy in recent years, thanks to the rise of zero-waste lifestyle bloggers and Instagrammers. However, it can be difficult to practice what we preach day-to-day, particularly when we’re food shopping at supermarkets, most of which cover items in excess packaging.

    Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips

    What are zero-waste swaps?

    Zero-waste swaps are alternatives to reduce the waste generated from single-use items. Swaps exist everywhere, whether it is in the kitchen, the office, the bathroom there is always a possible swap around.

    Swaps come with three main advantages:

    1. Swaps generate the least amount of waste possible.
    2. Swaps usually do a better job than their wasteful counterparts.
    3. Swaps save you money in the long run as they are reusable.

    Now, I would like to show you 3 ways of being more eco-friendly, that you might have or might’ve not heard of yet!

    ~ Offsetting your carbon footprint, by planting a tree

    Recently, a powerful non-profit organization has reached out to me, if I can help spread the word about their mission and vision for the planet. Trees for the Future is one of the largest non-profit tree planting companies in the world.

    Trees.org

    There are many ways you can help support an amazing organization like that, you can donate, share their stories over your social media to your friends and family, be a part of their newsletter and so on. I really recommend watching a documentary that they’ve produced last year. You can even host a fundraiser in their name and help them raise money, take part in the events they host over the world and calculate your carbon footprint while you’re at it. Their website is a great starting point, full of helpful resources. Simply visit Trees.org =)

    At this point, if you aren’t familiar with Ecosia, please go check it out! You can install it for free on your browser, and all it does is plant trees as you browse the web! It is not annoying like other browsers, where things and ads would pop up at all times. I’ve had it for a long time and I love it! (this isn’t sponsored, I just love the tool)

    Check out Ecosia today.

    ~ Creating a zero waste period

    Hello ladies, this one is for you.

    So, the famous menstrual cup; I had heard about them for quite a while before I actually tried one out. My mom has been using one for years and I decided to make a change 2 years ago and I never went back!!

    Why I love using a menstrual cup:

    1. The biggest personal benefit for me is how long you can leave them in (up to 12 hours!), so I don’t have to worry about changing it during the day.

    2. It’s very sustainable – using a menstrual cup means a zero waste period. Every month menstruating women throw away pads, tampons, applicators, plastic, and paper packaging. Using a menstrual cup cuts out all this trash.

    3. They save money. While menstrual cups are more expensive upfront (they seem to range from about $20-$40), you actually save a lot of money if you add up everything you would otherwise spend on other kinds of period products.

    4. Tampons may contain toxins. There are debate and not much research into whether tampons contain things like dioxins or pesticides, so I’d rather play it safe.

    5. Less clutter. I love being able to minimize the things I own, so not having boxes in the bathroom or tampons floating around my purse is wonderful.

    Follow my Green Planet board on Pinterest for more tips!

    As I am a strong believer in recommending things I love to use to my friends and readers, go check out Ruby Cup. Like I said, I have been using it for a while and loving it since day one. I do not get any leaks and let me tell you something. It is great for traveling. Coming from someone who travels literally all the time, I think its a great source. I love Ruby Cup because apart from affordable pricing, they actually donate a cup whenever someone buys one, to young women in need, who cannot afford it.

    Shop your Ruby Cup here. And forget about ever spending any money on your period, ever again.

    • Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips
    • Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips
    • Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips

    ~ Composting (a guest post)

    Please check out Laura’s composting guide, linked below. I am a big believer in the circle of life, in every aspect of it. No wonder, my mom has been teaching me these techniques and home remedies for a long time. What if there was a way to grow your own garden, grow your plants into beautiful and thriving flowers, without any chemical-full store-bought fertilizers?

    • Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips
    • Trees for the Future Activities Trees for the Future in Senegal Trees for the future, NGO, documentary, environment- alenka mali-eco friendly tips

    Ta-daaaah! Here comes the composting. Nothing new, our people have been doing it for generations and generations. Not only, you are minimizing the actual food waste to a complete zero, but you are also doing something good to the soil, where you spread your compost at. Making it fertile, in a beautiful, natural way.
    https://themindfulmomblographer.com/2019/02/20/the-ultimate-guide-to-composting/

    Check out my new YouTube video from this weekend:

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOOnZ6R2iV0&t=5s

    Do you have any more tips? Let me know in the comment section!

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

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  • Give Thanks Day Sunday ~ Project Blue Hands

    Give Thanks Day Sunday ~ Project Blue Hands

    Project Blue Hands remained inspired to raise funds for PFC foundation after many years. This was their 5th Give Thanks Day collaborating with PFC DAY.

    Along with the live music of local artists, we gathered on a beautiful Sunday, with perfect weather and a very motivated team of volunteers.  A community celebration in the spirit of creating harmony amongst people from all walks of life.  #GiveThanksDay has always been a day to remember how far a simple act of kindness can reach. It is a day where we all aspire to inspire youth philanthropy while bridging the gap between the marginalized and privileged communities.

    I would like to thank Eric from Kuppa Foundation for reaching out and inviting me to cover the event and spread awareness about their foundations. On a day like this, I get reminded of how lucky I got in life, and how some people haven’t and they can struggle in places where I don’t even think about, with problems I’m not familiar with. It’s important to acknowledge how some residents of Vancouver, even though homeless deserve a chance too.

    Eric and Coco were kind enough to organize free dental check-ups, hot meals all day, OD emergency training, free haircuts, clothing, and many more little things that we tend to take for granted in everyday life.

    I feel honoured for being a part of something different this Sunday.

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    • project blue hands-kuppa foundation-alenka mali-vancouver charities-vancouver east side-alenka mali photography-give thanks day

    You can read more about Coco’s foundation and her upcoming events and project on their website: Project Blue Hands

    More about Alenka

    “My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love using my medium to capture sports, adventures, underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! Very simply put, I’m one stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, go to the airport and take a random flight…you name it!

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job lately! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.”

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

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  • Spotted In Squamish… A Night Under The Stars

    Spotted In Squamish… A Night Under The Stars

    “My favorite moment was when the moon rose up behind the park’s Pavillion, while sweet music played in the background.”

    I have spent the last 2 months, organizing an event that no other job has prepared me for until this date. Who’d have thought that running a night locals market with some live music and amazing food would be that hard? Not me, that’s for sure.

    In the last 5-6 years of my “working era” of my life, I have done many jobs. One more exciting than others. From dogsitting to babysitting, cleaning cars, rooms, photography, videography, web design, health consultations, sustainability, and zero waste consultation, content writing, digital marketing, content creating for brands over Instagram, and I could go on and on but who has time for that?

    I’m a big fan of experiences. Work-related or not, experiences are great. In every aspect, any way you look at it, experiencing a trade, or an event, spending time with certain people… all of that shapes us in this special unique way that we use to live our life. Maybe it even shapes our values and opinions on certain things?

    Follow me on Instagram @alenkaamali

    If I were to write a book about my life one day, I’m pretty sure half of the things in there would seem unbelievable or impossible for some readers. I see myself being a “yes person” as one of my qualities, while others might label it as ‘reckless’ or ‘irresponsible’. Not that I worry, I love how I agree to opportunities that scare me at the moment, which usually (usually) turn out unforgettable later in life.

    I headed into the event planning with a bit of excitement, I mean of course. I think Squamish needs more nightlife action, especially during the summer. Bringing the locals together to enjoy artists, showcase photographers and listen to musicians… what’s better than that?

    That travel bug bugging you yet? Get 60$ off your first Airbnb trip with me. Anywhere in the world.

    Spotted in Squamish happened for the first time on August 4th, starting at 6 pm at night. A day or two before were a nightmare for me, but I was keeping my nerves together, with a promise that everything will slow down after this weekend. (of course, with Crankworx starting just 5 days after that, even thinking about slowing down was impossible… who am I kidding?)

    • alenka-mali-squamish-photography-squamish-bali-surfing-bali-best-breaks-sustainable-living-skaha-bluffs-farming-diy-home-slow-living
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    • alenka-mali-squamish-photography-squamish-bali-surfing-bali-best-breaks-sustainable-living-skaha-bluffs-farming-diy-home-slow-living
    • alenka-mali-squamish-photography-squamish-bali-surfing-bali-best-breaks-sustainable-living-skaha-bluffs-farming-diy-home-slow-living
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    It was cute. Quite a few of my friends came over to support the event, lots of Squamish vendors were spreading a word about their business and sweet tunes from local band Carolyn Grass and Friends, Rob and Eric, and more of the local musicians. Super cute.

    If there was one thing that I took from organizing and running this event was the fact that good things happen when the community steps together on a creative project like this. In times where Squamish is growing and expanding at this rate, it’s the most important I think, for events like this to happen. To connect the community. Connect the local artist, collaborate and have fun.

    I’m excited to do it again, next summer.

    More about Alenka

    My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love shooting nature, sports, sports in nature… underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! I’m stoked. Very simply put, I am a stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, ready to go to the airport and take a random flight… I’m stoked on living and I love what I do for work.

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainabilty and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini course)

    This post contains affiliate links – click here to learn more!
  • One Sunny Morning At Skaha

    One Sunny Morning At Skaha

    A snippet from my journal, from spending a weekend in Skaha Bluffs;

    “Romantic. Windy. Afternoon sun on my red cheeks is slowly going down. I’ve found my Canadian California. For the weekend I’m free. Free from distractions, limiting beliefs and worries. Not that I worry or limit my beliefs often…

    Where is this summer going, that’s what I wonder. I’m craving more days under the sun, like this one. I spend some time in Tofino last weekend and this one under Skaha Bluffs, next to Okanagan lake. What a beautiful countryside. My words are getting lost in translation, in between the vineyards and the apricot trees. The smell of baked potatoes is inviting me back to the villa, indicating that our dinner is ready, but I want to stay outside a little longer. I only need a couple more minutes here, in the sun.

    The house of our friends; Chris and Richard, is overlooking the beautiful Skaha lake, located in the middle of endless vineyards that grow delicious grapes, producing the famous BC wine. Trees around the house are big where the branches reach out like arms towards the sky. And when the wind blows through the valley you can hear those trees, mourning in the distance. The driveway to the villa is magical, going down the cute gravel road while passing pear trees in their early summer season and lines of grapes and vineyards.

    Tuscanian style villa has recently been renovated into a beautiful modernly designed and open house with a big kitchen, a pool overlooking the lake and a huge garden, where they produce all their food for the summer. Dinner time started to wrap around the golden hour, which seems longer on this side of the province for some reason. Enjoying the bites of wild-caught fish and rosemary roasted potatoes with the wine from a neighborly vineyard reminded me of a slow-paced lifestyle I love to live in Argentina.

    Peace and tranquility. Climbing with my friends at Skaha Bluffs, taking the boat out to the lake. Long hours under the sun. Long hours writing, reading and sun tanning.“

    • alenka mali-squamish photography-squamish-bali surfing-bali best breaks-sustainable living-skaha bluffs-farming-diy home-slow living
    • alenka mali-squamish photography-squamish-bali surfing-bali best breaks-sustainable living-skaha bluffs-farming-diy home-slow living
    • alenka mali-squamish photography-squamish-bali surfing-bali best breaks-sustainable living-skaha bluffs-farming-diy home-slow living

    I have recently stumbled upon a very interesting website that was recommended to me, by my friend Chris. Behind The Change. I have found myself wandering and reading through the articles and their thoughts on sustainability, zero waste communities, and slow-paced living.

    Please read: https://www.behindthechange.org/stories/why-we-want-make-handson-impact/

    The story of STUFF ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=658&v=9GorqroigqM

    As there are more people who are becoming aware of their impact, living more consciously and staying present in the moment, I wonder how can we connect, where can we find each other and how can this grow!

    I want to keep it as my mission for the future to stay a conscious entrepreneur, investing in the community, collaborating with locals and doing good. I love what I do already. I think it’s important. We want to go do our work and feel like it’s meaningful. Feel like we are making an impact, a difference.

    How can we take these writings and articles and make sure information gets well spread and reaches as many people as possible? Luckily, in this world of social media and instant connection, it’s not that hard!

    Sharing this article over Pinterest, Instagram, and Facebook. Reading and sharing the articles on evolutionary pages like, Behind The Change, zero waste bloggers like Trash Is For Tossers and similar! Spread the word, watch documentaries and educate yourself and your family. We are in this together and it is the only way to change the way people think and act.

    Read more: 10 Best Zero Waste Bloggers

    Read more: 7 Ways To Switch Into A Plastic-Free Lifestyle

    As for the weekly highlights, I’d like to feature some amazing brands that I have recently partnered up with. Businesses that are making an impact, doing good in this world and really changing the game.

    Wild Bamboo Straws

    • bamboo straws-alenka mali-squamish photography-squamish-bali surfing-bali best breaks-sustainable living-skaha bluffs-farming-diy home-slow living
    • bamboo straws-alenka mali-squamish photography-squamish-bali surfing-bali best breaks-sustainable living-skaha bluffs-farming-diy home-slow living

    A young start-up, by friend Hagen. Hagen is originally from Germany but has been living in Bali for a few years now. Just like many other expats in Bali, he realizes the issues of plastic pollution. Which is exactly what inspired him to start distributing around the bamboo straws. Every pack comes with a cleaner and I recommend using it for as long as possible when you think it’s past the point of being used even more, simply compost it!

    Buy the straws here (click)

    BeeBees Wax

    The last thing that I have added to my zero waste kitchen household! I love those wraps, they work like magic and they smell delicious! After each use, I simply wash the wrap and store it in my drawer until the next time I need it.

    Get the beeswax wraps here! (click)

    As I’m learning to live less materialistically, I love to keep less STUFF around my life. Fewer clothes, furniture pieces, bathroom things, and electronics. Rather than buying things mindlessly and visiting Winners and other good-deal shops on a weekly basis, I like to invest in something that will last me for as long as I take care of it. Like the laptop that I need for work, a good water bottle (Hydroflask team over here!!!), my sports equipment, good kitchen stuff, and sustainable or second hand bought clothing.

    On the other hand, it feels kind of crazy when I even think about the number of things we put in our bodies, without realizing where they came from or what’s in them! Ever since I came back from my travels (in May), I have made a deal with my self to shop mindfully! And I mean, really mindfully!

    I get most of my produce from my garden, which is the best thing ever, I grow zucchini, tomatoes, kale, herbs, squashes, lettuce, peppers and more! Since I’m eating pretty much plant-based ever since I don’t have any issues with worrying about buying animal products. As far as my bulk section of legumes, whole grains, rice, superfoods, and proteins goes, I get them from Nada grocery store. Nada is the first zero-waste grocery shop in Vancouver and I’m more than happy to support an awesome place like that.

    Kambucha, yogurt, sour crout, cookies, bread and those things – I make them all at home. Making things at home from scratch was always very familiar for me since my mom has been doing it all my life. It’s so easy to make homemade jam, pickles, hummus, sauces and similar. Way easier than I thought. And whenever I get stuck, I simply google a recipe or a process I want to do. Doing all of that from home minimizes my waste to a bare minimum pretty much. I avoid plastics and packaging at all costs, but nobody is perfect. Sometimes buying something from a local grocery store isn’t available in any other form but packaged, at that moment I’m not complaining. I do make sure everything gets rinsed and put into recycling afterward.

    Some of the things, like the CBD oil that I take, can’t be made at home. At that point, I like to make sure the CBD oil I use is produced organically and packaged sustainably. I like to take Nuleaf Naturals CBD oil.

    I think more than ever, now is a very good time to start caring about where we get our things. As consumers, we are given an enormous power to drive our economy in the right direction. Sustainably sourced and produced items, organic produce, and food, most importantly ~ locally made.

    I have written an article in which I described how important it is to shop local and support the local businesses. Super important and more significant than you might think.

    You can read more here: https://www.alenkamali.com/shopping-local-squamish/

    More about Alenka

    My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love shooting nature, sports, sports in nature… underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! I’m stoked. Very simply put, I am a stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for sunrise, ready to go to the airport and take a random flight… I’m stoked on living and I love what I do for work.

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainability and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini-course)

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  • Supporting Local Communities: Where Does It Take Us?

    Supporting Local Communities: Where Does It Take Us?

    Read this post in Squamish Chief

    The hype of shopping for local and organic, all-natural, and sustainably made products has been taking over the Western market. Many people like the idea of it, without actually realizing the impact that they’re making by buying locally and shopping at home-run businesses.

    Emma explains it well on her blog, why is it so important to support the local artists, when traveling.

    When and how do we support our local community in Squamish?

    We support the local community when we shop at local stores such as mini health food store markets, cideries, and breweries, bakeries, farmers market, and other food and beverage shops that produce/shop for their ingredients locally.

    When ingredients and products are produced, made or grown in Squamish, that means;

    Those take less energy to produce/close to zero waste and no waste when it comes to transport!

    Another way of investing in local businesses is retail, service, and art! Home-run businesses like hairdressers make up artists, shoe repairs, etc, as well as artists! (Like myself). Photographers, painters, craftsmen, woodworking and shaping, glass melting artists and native art artists! When you really look into the reach Squamish culture in the last decade, there are so many creative people, driving this community!

    By supporting the locals, we are all participating in growing our community, our economy and I like this example: “When buying from your local business you are helping a family put food on the table, send kids to school, buy clothes, etc. When buying from a big corporation, you are only adding up the founding to some millionaire’s third beach house.”

    Every single one of our daily decisions is important. Be mindful of where you shop and what you shop for! When supporting our local businesses we are contributing to the local decision making! Local ownership makes sure, their decisions and votes remain on the side that is better for the community in comparison to big co-ops that don’t really care. A great way to preserve the community is supporting those who are driving it! Of course, by buying locally in Squamish you are making sure the money stays here! If you are working in the city, you are bringing money in, but also keeping it in by buying local! It is really good for the economy. I hope that makes sense so far. Growing local ownerships also creates more job opportunities and usually better wages than big chains.

    According to ILSR, “Local stores help to sustain vibrant, compact, walkable town centers-which, in turn, are essential to reducing sprawl, automobile use, habitat loss, and air and water pollution.”

    My favorites in Squamish; locally owned businesses in Squamish

    FOOD AND BEVERAGE: Zephyr Cafe, The Ledge, Backcountry Brewery, Turmeric Food Truck, Farmers Market on Saturdays, Cloudburst, Locavore food truck, Copper Coil, XOCO chocolate place, 99 North Dispensary

    RETAIL & SERVICES: Random and Peals consignment stores, my friend Jenifer(the hairdresser), OTP dirt bike shop

    SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT: Sea To Sky Art house gallery, magazines like Mountain Life magazine, snowboard brands like Known, apparel brands like BeWildHer, Wild and Heart, yoga places like Breathe, Klemen Mali mountain guide (my dad)

    The list goes on and on…

    CONCLUSION; WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES AND ARTIST?

    – keeps money in the local economy
    – creates more choice
    – embraces what makes us unique
    – makes our locality a destination

    squamish_buying local_locals market Squamish_squamish photography_alenka mali

    It is the most sustainable and eco-friendly decision to make. Shopping local reduces the environmental impact a lot, keeps the communities unique and diverse, invests in the community itself! It is a very logical decision to make. How do you support local businesses? Let me know in the comment section!

    More about Alenka

    My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love shooting nature, sports, sports in nature… underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! I’m stoked. Very simply put, I am a stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for a sunrise, ready to go to the airport and take a random flight… I’m stoked on living and I love what I do for work.

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainabilty and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini course)

    This post contains affiliate links – click here to learn more!
  • Growing. Me, the plants… and work? I’m home.

    Growing. Me, the plants… and work? I’m home.

    It’s been a hot minute since I’ve posted something up here. I have to admit that it feels really good to be home. In Squamish I mean, I love Squamish. One of my favorite places in the world. Traveling the last half a year (or 8 months to be exact) was awesome, but it feels even awesome-er.

    It’s also super fun to get back to my world pin map and add pins to the new places I’ve visited. I am proud to say that I have hit 40 by 20 in April and I hope the next milestone comes before I hit 30. But there’s lots of time for that!

    Read about my trip to Portugal

    Read about my trip to Denmark

    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger

    No specific idea or a chance to teach something in this blog post, like I do in others.

    But I do want to check in and give you the life update! I have just moved into a beautiful house in downtown Squamish, with my best friends, who are like family to me now. We are a very international house, me coming from Slovenia with Argentinian background, Andrea from Italy, Rubi is from Mexico and Marcel is German. The weather has been beautiful and with Andrea’s help, we slowly put together my room, piece by piece. Homemade desk for my office, a cute bed frame, made out of palletts etc.

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    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
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    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger

    So far, we opened the camping season last weekend, for May Long weekend, and this weekend we are ending the ski season for the classic Gapor day.

    Our garden has been doing well as well. Planted some new things last week and I’m patiently and lovingly watching them grow stronger every day. It’s amazing how much we can get just from our own home! I’m a big supporter of growing our own things and making things from home and our kitchen, as much as possible. What we can’t grow or produce, we can also get from a locals store or weekly farmers market. I missed Squamish. I missed this domestic work, another thing I was excited to get back to.

    If you are new to home gardening, you can order this kit that I’ve seen many people used before (click)

    I have been making my own coconut, almond and oat milk, as well as coconut yogurt. I love to know where things that I consume come from, and what’s inside! My friend Nick and I will be hosting nutritional and plant-based cooking workshops in Vancouver this summer.

    Check this page to learn more about that.

    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger
    • diy home-alenka mali-travel inspiration-squamish photography-worldwide trotter-travel blogger

    More about Alenka

    My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love shooting nature, sports, sports in nature… underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! I’m stoked. Very simply put, I am a stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for a sunrise, ready to go to the airport and take a random flight… I’m stoked on living and I love what I do for work.

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainabilty and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini course)

    This post contains affiliate links – click here to learn more!
  • Celebrating Mother Nature – International Earth Day 2019

    Celebrating Mother Nature – International Earth Day 2019

    It is 2019. Which means, let’s wake up and face the issues. Happy Earth Day 2019. Happy? Well, not as much but what can one say? Good luck to our planet, that would be more appropriate. I also don’t want to come out as pessimistic here. After all, this is the one day in a whole year when we should be celebrating the wonderful planet that we live on!

    Expressing gratitude for Earth today can come in many forms. Maybe you might consider carpooling to work this week, or riding a bike. Bringing your reusable cup to your local cafe, refusing a straw at the bar, later tonight. Choose the vegetables and fruits that aren’t wrapped in plastic. Watch Our Planet on Netflix. Enjoy vegan meals and many more ideas of how to celebrate this year’s Earth Day.

    Earth Day organization

    Standing from a point of compassion is a great start. Would you do something that would hurt your kids? Or your dog, or your wife? Probably not. We have two homes. Our body and this planet. That is why taking care of them is so important. Living in a clean, fresh environment creates a perfect place for us to grow and delevop. Come up with new ideas and do good.

    Where to we start?

    Changing “What difference will it make?” to “OK. I’m ready. What can I do?”

    May I mention that sharing sustainable living tips and ways to be more “green” hasn’t been all unicorns and rainbows? It definitely hasn’t been a smooth ride. I feel like it could relate to veganism. Vegan activists must put up with a lot of bull**** throughout their day, right? I get lots of sweet comments in my dm’s, some a bit sweeter than others but that’s okay.

    I have already accepted the fact that when you publicly display your strong and deeply rooted opinion into something, others might feel like you are attacting and them is the target. Which is the opposite of what I am trying to do.

    My mission

    My mission with all these sustainability, green peace, ban single-use plastic posts is to simply spread the word about what our situation is! In a nice way, of course. 🙂 After reading PLASTIC-FREE, it became clear that is up to use, to make the right choice. Our living situation on this beautiful lush planet is determined to how we treat it, directly connected to individuals everyday choices. You literally wake up and stop by a cafe on the way to the office.

    There is a choice, whether you want to take the coffee cup with a plastic lid, along with some takeout breakfast in a plastic container, or maybe cook your own breakfast and bring a reusable coffee mug with you? And the choices that we live by, every day determine our living situation on this planet.

    Single Use Plastics Issue

    Single-use plastic items take valuable resources to create, only to be used for a couple of hours, minutes, or even seconds before being chucked away. Yet plastic can take hundreds and hundreds of years to decompose. So were those 2 minutes of pleasure really worth it?

    Also, that water bottle you’re drinking from? You won’t be around in the year 2300, but the bottle will most likely be. Does that make sense?

    Two awesome books:

    101 to go zero waste

    Fuck Plastic

    It’s scientifically predicted that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish. Even though they’re not outnumbered yet, fish are eating a lot of plastic. Wales are slowly going instict, getting washed up on the beach with a stomach full of plastic. If its not too late yet, then this is a very good time to start thinking about our choices.

    Easy Single use plastic swaps

    Did you know that the dirty word of 2018 was plastic? It only means things are changing. For good. Luckily, living plastic-free isn’t that hard. I’ve been there and I can’t go back now. You might think recycling is a better option. But even if you recycle all the plastic you use, it’s far better for the planet to avoid using (or even creating) it in the first place. Besides that, most of the recycling doesn’t even make it to the last resort. Either the wind blows it away or it ends up in the water… after all, it is still trash!

    See more: Why recycling isn’t an option

    The good news is that there are some really easy ways to reduce the amount of plastic we use.

    Plastic-free beeswax

    Bamboo straws package

    Reusable water bottle

    Pela: Biodegradable phone case

    Reusable makeup removers

    Most of them will save you money too! Why not pick one of the plastic swaps to start with and see how you get on? Try it out for a week…

    Here are 7 ways to going plastic-free

    Going plastic free? Easy eco friendly kitchen swaps

    RESOURCES (eBooks, movies, blogs and activists on sustainable living) that I love

    Powerful documentary; Our Planet

    Another powerful documentary; Cowspiracy

    Kicking the habit: Going Plastic FREE

    Life without plastic (book)

    Earth day is the one day in the whole year, when we should really be celebrating this planet. She provides us with a beautiful home, clean air, crystal clear waters and abundance of wildlife. What more could we need? I am grateful for everything this world offers me every day. Ocean to surf, mountains to ski and climb, forest trails to bike and waterfalls to swim in.

    What are you grateful for?

    More about Alenka

    My name is Alenka and I’m a Squamish based photographer. I love shooting nature, sports, sports in nature… underwater shots, adventures in the mountains and days on snow! I’m stoked. Very simply put, I am a stoked girl, ready to get up at 2 in the morning and hike for a sunrise, ready to go to the airport and take a random flight… I’m stoked on living and I love what I do for work.

    Photography, web design and digital marketing have been things I’m proud to call my job! Very flexible, lots of traveling and even more adventures than when I was a kid. Here, on my website I share tips on photography, spreading awareness about the zero-waste lifestyle and sustainabilty and crazy stories from my travels. Welcome.

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Editing photos

    squamish, squamish photography, work, alenka mali, photography, drone, aerial

    Photography (free mini course)

    This post contains affiliate links – click here to learn more!
  • Plastic Waste: 7 Tips to Switch Into A Plastic-Free Lifestyle

    Plastic Waste: 7 Tips to Switch Into A Plastic-Free Lifestyle

    Don’t we all just love soaking up the sun to the relaxing sounds of crashing waves on the beach, we don’t want to think about how the oceans and lakes have basically become a garbage soup, and most of it is plastic! Plastic waste.

    See more: Shocking Bali beaches – Instagram paradise, covered in plastic

    These are 7 ways on how to reduce/eliminated plastic waste from your life. Tips, recommendations and ideas to live a more sustainable, plastic-free life.

    • plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish
    • plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish
    • plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish
    • plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish
    • plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish

    Look, I don’t want to sound pessimistic here, but this issue is getting bigger every day. Plastic waste is definitely something we should talk about. Our daily choices are dramatically impacting the waters surrounding our planet, lakes, rivers and untouched nature destinations, aren’t untouched anymore. You might think, what difference does it make? If I ditch the plastic bags when I visit the supermarket, is a drop in the sea since everyone else is still doing it? Well, my dear friend… it’s actually a drop in the sea, a plastic one, a little bigger than the drop. Since the plastic is composed of major toxic pollutants, it has the potential to cause great harm to the environment in the form of air, water, and land pollution, according to conserve-energy-future.com

    The world’s population continues to grow, so does the plastic production, that is something that isn’t hard to figure out. North American culture was the start of the on-the-go lifestyle, and the convenience of it quickly grew worldwide. Coffee on the way to work, take out dinners and lunch meetings in the park require a large number of disposable plastics. Bottled water is in many people’s everyday solutions. Thinking of how they are saving money and germs since they didn’t buy an expensive Hydroflask and they aren’t filling it in their office bathroom. Well, I look at my re-usable water bottle as an investment, and you don’t have to spend 50$ on it! The cheapest one will start at 8$ a bottle, or less if you buy a bundle in Costco, and those will last up to a year.

    90% of plastic waste doesn’t even get recycled, so what’s the point? Where does it end up?

    I have explained why recycling isn’t the right solution in my previous sustainability article

    Unfortunately, it ends up filling our beautiful oceans, like creating plastic islands, rivers, waters, and land! It is uncontrollably everywhere, creating great problems for plants, wildlife, marine life and us, the human population. Milk cartons are lined with plastic, water bottles are handed out everywhere we go, and some products may even contain tiny plastic beads. Every time one of these items gets thrown away or washed down a sink, the toxic pollutants have more of a chance to enter the environment and do harm.

    Trash dumps and landfills are unfortunate major problems, as they allow pollutants to enter the ground and affect wildlife and groundwater for years to come. Since plastic items are made for durability, it’s obviously not biodegradable, polluting land, air, and water.

    See more: Ocean Waste Dumping Problems & Solutions

    7 Solutions to reducing the plastic waste and starting to live the plastic-free lifestyle

    The reality is that the only way the plastic waste problem can be addressed and solved is by individuals and companies around the world agreeing to apply practices that reduce waste on every level. As simple as it sounds, it’s really not that simple. But overall – DEFINITELY NOT IMPOSSIBLE. It starts with us, normal small individuals… and the market follows us, consumers. If we say no to single-use plastics and refuse to buy/use/sell them. Then will the bigger companies be basically forced to make some changes, right?

    I’d like to invite you to try out simple ways to make small changes in your daily life, that will make an IMPACT. What we do, think and say as simple citizens, actually do make a change.

    ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣1. Distance yourself off disposable plastics⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

    90% of the plastic in our daily lives is used once and then chucked away. Things like grocery bags, plastic wrap, disposable cutlery, straws, coffee-cup lids, soda cans, and bottled water… It only takes a few times of bringing your own bags to the store, silverware to the office, or travel mug to Starbucks before it becomes a habit.

    Check out my favorite menstrual cup!

    ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣2. Stop buying water⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ 😉

    You can do so much better… Each year, close to 20 billion plastic bottles are tossed in the trash (30 million every month, in BALI ONLY). Carry a reusable bottle in your bag, and you’ll never have to spend extra money on Voss or Fiji again…⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ I personally love Hydroflask, since the water inside stays cold for days, and their colors are beautiful!

    Buy your Hydroflask here

    plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, squamish photography, tofino, manda sunscreen
    Getting ready to surf in Tofino with eco-friendly sunscreen MANDA SUNSCREEN

    3. Cook more⁣⁣, eat out a little less!

    Not only is it healthier, but making your own meals doesn’t involve takeout containers. I personally love to cook for myself and others, but that doesn’t mean I don’t eat out at all. A good sushi bar or a nice small French place and I’m sold! For those times when you do order in or eat out, tell the establishment you don’t need any plastic cutlery! Check out @seekingthrive Instagram & get some recipes inspiration!

    ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣4. Recycle (duh)

    This one might seem obvious, but we’re not really doing a great job of it. Not so fun fact: less than 14 percent of plastic packaging is recycled. Plastic bottles, paper, and alcoholic bottles ($$$) these are all good to go!⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ Simply bring one more bin into the kitchen and make a rule of recycling everything that can be recycled. Alcoholic bavereges are all returnable, which means someone will actually pay you to bring them to the Return-It center!

    5. Buy in bulk⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣ and shop mindfully

    Single-serving yogurts, travel-size toiletries, tiny packages of nuts, shampoo, dishwasher detergent or laundry soap, chia seeds and almonds… — consider the product-to-packaging ratio of items you tend to buy often and select the bigger container instead of buying several smaller ones over time! It might require a little more planning, but it will save you money and help the planet.

    plastic waste, alenka mali, photography, sustainable living, squamish
    Little me, Enjoying the tranquility of Patagonian mountains

    ⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣6. Period stuff.

    This one is for the female side of my public. Are you, by any chance pending too much coin on tampons and pads? Or worse, are you sometimes running to the store at 2 in the morning, when your “friend” unexpectedly shows up at the door and you aren’t ready? Are you discussed by all the waste that goes out to trash every month and wonder how long before it bio grades? (years and year btw)

    If you answered yes to at least one of these questions, then you’re in luck. Because I’m about to save your day. Or should I say, your whole year and all the years to come, until you hit 50 something! Invest in a reusable cup! I love Ruby cup. It is a brand that I’ve partnered with about a year ago, with a mission to spread the word about reducing our monthly waste, as girls and making that time of the month a little easier. Purchasing a menstrual cup is a small, 12$ investment, that can last to 5 or 7 years if you take good care of it and holds a duration of up to 12 hours. I think that is one of the best things someone can ever think of. Buying your cup from Ruby Cup is purchasing a certified hypoallergenic, certified vegan (no animal testing) product, that complies with all relevant legislation.

    Check out my favorite menstrual cup!

    7. Educate Businesses

    Don’t be afraid to speak up. Talk to your favorite local restaurants and businesses about options that they can switch to for packaging, storing, and bagging items. Encourage the owners to follow the plastic-free trend. My friend Shondra and I have left notes, with tips written on napkins to some restaurants in Bali. Then sent them a DM on Instagram, just to make sure they got the message. Be persistent! It takes time and effort to make a change. Many companies are starting to come up with excellent low-cost replacements, such as bamboo utensils and straws or reusable metal ones in place of plastic ones.

    We had just visited the very first zero-waste shop in Slovenia. It’s located in the center of our capital, Ljubljana and it’s the cutest thing in the world! I love the concept, and aperantly so do others! Clients drive the business, not the other way around.

    That is all, all the tips on reducing the plastic waste that I have for you today. Please think about your daily decisions. I used to be so embarassed when my mom wouldn’ take any plastic bags in the store when we were little. (That was over 15 years ago – yes she’s progressive and yes – everyone thought we were weird), but now I understand. It takes little to change a habit or impliment a new one. Inspire your family and friends to do the same, share the article and let’s take care of our planet!

    #ecofriendly #plasticwasteissues #zerowaste #sustainability #recyclemore #plasticfree #vegan #organic #savetheplanet #sustainableliving   #ethicalfashion⁣⁣⁣⁣⁣

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  • Ocean Waste Dumping: The World’s Biggest Landfill?!

    Ocean Waste Dumping: The World’s Biggest Landfill?!

    Dumping waste in our oceans. We’re all aware of it, yet not doing anything about it, because of either; a)we’re too scared to find out more, b)we think we’re too ”little” to make any changes or, c)we just don’t care. It won’t help to keep shutting our eyes, away from reality.

     

    It’s sad. It’s shocking. And we have to do something about it.

     

    Something I found out earlier this week has shocked me to the moon and back. According to the United States Coast Gaurd, is apparently totally legal to dump trash and sewage in our oceans! What the ****. Although it is not permissible to dump any plastic into the ocean in 2018, it is perfectly acceptable to dump any raw sewage, paper, rags, glass, metal, bottles, or similar refuse, as long as you are at least 12 miles away from the nearest shoreline.

    Wastes were frequently dumped in coastal and ocean waters, in the past, based on the assumption that marine waters had an unlimited capacity to mix and disperse wastes. But that was before and it is 2018 now, how can we still hold on to those beliefs?

     

    It is shocking to see the waste – dumping issues in real life though…

     

    The tide goes out in small coral reef villages, and the trash line at low tide is like a rainbow on the black volcanic sand. That is the side of Bali, no Instagram model tells you about.

    According to Logan Connor, from sea-globe.com, Southeast Asian nations are among the worst offenders, when it comes to plastic waste in our oceans.

    Plastic Waste Inputs From Land Into the Ocean is a report, issued, by the environmental engineer, Jenna Jambeck. Along with her team, she estimated that eight million tonnes of plastic are being dumped into the ocean each year – the equivalent of five grocery bags full of plastic debris for every foot of the world’s coastlines.

     

    …

     

    …….

     

    …..  Why? It is almost funny how the amount of plastic estimated to be going into the water is equal to the amount of tuna being fished each year. Humans are essentially “taking out tuna and putting in plastic” …

     

    dumb, waste, oceans

     

    dumb, waste, oceans, plastic, one-use plastic,

     

    I spoke to many Balinese locals about the plastic-waste topic.

    The key problem is that people just don’t know. Before plastic came to these islands in the 60’s and early ’70s, everyone has been wrapping their food in banana leaves. And after it has been used, they would simply burn it, or dump it in the ocean. And here’s where plastic brought the problems. They simply did not know, what plastic can do! They didn’t know (and still many of them don’t!) that plastic containers aren’t the same as banana leaves. But it was definitely cheaper, more convenient, and longer-lasting. I still see many local businesses and households, burning their plastic in their backyard. And every once in awhile, there is some genius person, who’s decided to get rid of tons of plastic and has a massive bonfire. That easily smoked up the whole Canggu for a day.

     

     

    But it is getting better though.

     

    I don’t want to sprinkle a lot of negative vibes on you, by telling you all these horrific facts. Looking at Bali, in comparison to last year or a year before – it has gotten so much better. A lot of cafes, restaurants, and clubs are going plastic-free, by replacing the straws with metal ones, not giving out plastic bags, only paper ones… and similar! It’s amazing to see changes like that, in the place so close to my heart.

    **UPDATED IN JANUARY 2019** Indonesian government is finally making a movement to a plastic-FREE Bali;

    As of January 1, Denpasar city government’s ban on plastic bags in “modern” stores—namely convenience stores and supermarkets—came into full effect. The prohibition, which was announced by Mayor Rai Mantra in October last year, came just a few weeks ahead of an island-wide ban on single-use plastics like straws, styrofoam, and poly bags.

    The latter policy was signed and agreed by Bali Governor Wayan Koster just before Christmas and is aimed at producers, businesses, and individuals in the hopes that the province’s plastic waste can be reduced by 60-70 percent, according to a report by Bali Post.

    But while Koster’s decree carries a six month grace period, the plastic bag ban in Denpasar is already in full swing.

    On Wednesday, Denpasar’s Environmental and Hygiene Agency (DLHK) carried out inspections to see how consumers and retailers were adapting to the initial plastic bag ban. Led by I Ketut Wisada, Head of DLHK, officers visited a number of shopping centers, supermarkets, and convenience stores in the region.

    According to a report by Bali Post, the investigation revealed that while many retailers had switched to reusable bags or cardboard boxes, some stores were still offering plastic bags.

    Wisada also noted that communication on the matter could be improved. “The prohibition of using plastic bags is still unclear to some shoppers. (A notice) must be placed at the cash register so that it can be clearly read,” he said to the source.

     

    There has also been a criticism of the lack of clarity as to the consequences for violating the regulation. Speaking to Tribun Bali, activist Luh De Dwi Jayanthi of non-profit organization Plastik Detox Bali, said, “As far as we can see, it seems like the sanctions for violations of the regulation are not clear.”

    On the whole, though, the public reaction seems to have been positive. AA Ngurah Agung Agra Putra, the operational manager of the Ayu Nadi supermarket group, expressed the need for a collaborative community effort.

    “We hope that people will be wiser in using plastic as well as participating in the joint effort of protecting the environment. The government, employers, and communities must work together to protect the environment,” he commented to the source.

     

    Despite a few early teething problems, efforts towards a cleaner, more eco-minded Bali appear to be going well, with Denpasar’s stance on single-use plastics paving the way for Koster’s island-wide ban, which will come into full effect in June.

    (The last paragraph was taken from https://coconuts.co/bali/news/week-one-bali-residents-transition-plastic-free-shopping/ )

     

    Because as I explained in my recent article, about sustainable living, the key is NOT recycling.

    But simply choosing not to consume. And if there’s no demand, there will be no production. All we can do is make these simple changes in our daily lifestyle. 

    Please don’t come back to me, saying that what a single individual can do today, won’t make any difference. We’re all making a big difference, by educating ourselves, taking a stand and committing to a better type of lifestyle. Here are some tips of changes we can all adapt to:

    – Bring your own reusable water bottle! Even though tap water isn’t drinkable in most of the third world countries, you’ll still find lots of options to avoid buying plastic water bottles! Most of the hostel, villas, and stays will provide you with drinkable water and all you have to do is fill it up before you go adventuring.

    – Eat and pack close to nature. Make the most of your stay and shop at locals markets! It’s a luxury to eat the best mango in the world in Bali (since I know that back home we only have the 7$ flavorless ones). Bring a reusable bag while going shop and say NO to the plastic ones that you’re offered.

    – Pack light. It saves whatever transport mode you use, and yourself a ton of energy. Pack purposefully for the destination you’re traveling to. What do you really need?

    – Support the small entrepreneurs and go against mass consumerism. We live in a demand-driven society. Help the good brands, without lobbying power and big advertisement budgets, to climb up the ladder. Demand plastic free and toxic free where you can. This way you say no to oil drilling, carbon emissions, and yes to a cleaner way of life.

    – If you buy toiletries, buy in bulk to minimize package materials.

     

    According to Prakash Chandak, a senior program officer at the United Nations Environment Programme, we need to affect consumer behavioral change, and try to educate and raise awareness among consumers to use less plastic and – to the greatest extent possible – reuse, recycle and segregate the plastics so they don’t find their way into the oceans.

     

    What can we do as tiny individuals in this world?

    Shop mindfully. Visit the plastic-free stores in your area, NUDE SHOPPING is getting very popular and they’ve been putting up their stores everywhere. Also, investing in things that last longer, isn’t such a bad idea. I would particularly recommend getting things that aren’t single use! Or better, eliminate shopping when it isn’t necessary. There are many things you can make, instead of buying. Get creative. I love Pinterest for that!

    I’ve ditched pads and tampons over a year ago and I’m so happy with how well that turned out. Saved money and tons of waste every month. That’s just an example. OrganiCup is the brand I’ve been using. Mine even came with cleaning wipes and a cleaner, from when I’m on the road. Never used a pad or a tampon since.

     

    organic cup, plastic waste, ocean dumping

     

    Many cosmetics, such as toothpaste, face masks, body scrubs, and hair products can be made at home with simple a, d easy to afford ingredients. You can look up just about anything on google these days – I highly recommend doing your research. Other beauty products can be bought locally at farmer’s markets, craft fairs and bulk food stores. Only purchase what you need. Feel free to share this page with friends or family members for a “plastic waste shopping guide”

     

    Please always read ingredients & request minimal packaging and re-useable boxes/bags when possible.

     

    We need to start at the roots. Educated children from the young ages of what plastic is and how can that affect our planet Earth. Growing up in an eco-friendly and sustainable household will help kids to grow into thoughtful leaders that will make great changes in our society.

    That is why I’m asking you to share this amongst your friends and family. Get others involved and spread awareness. See how you and your friends can contribute to this, in your local community.

     

    ocean, alenka mali, dump, waste ocean, alenka mali, dump, waste  ocean, alenka mali, dump, waste

     

    What do you think about all of this, how can we make it better, together?

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    Alenka