ABOUT THIS EVENT

Sustainable living begins with you

This is more than a workshop. It’s a curated night out for women who do a lot — and are ready to be supported in return. Join me as I delve into how to become a Sustainable Woman, with input from my amazing guest speakers.

Step away from the constant giving, organising, and holding-it-all-together — and join us for an indulgent and inspiring evening designed to nourish your body, mind, and spirit.

GUEST PRESENTERS:

Anna & Kelly from Nourish Connect Thrive — sharing the power of Women’s Circles and spiritual nourishment

Alison from Muscle Recovery Solutions — exploring the restorative benefits of massage for relaxation and recovery

Suzanne from Ember & Aura — introducing the grounding and sensory support of aromatherapy

Lindsay from Fresh Collective — giving insights into personal leadership and showing up for your life with clarity and intention

WHAT YOU’LL EXPERIENCE

• What it truly means to be a sustainable woman — and small changes that can transform your energy
• A guided exploration of personal sustainability and protecting what matters most

WHO THIS IS FOR

This event is perfect for women who:

• Are feeling tired, stretched or last on their own list
• Want to feel connected and nurtured
• Want a meaningful night out — one that feels nourishing, fun, and quietly transformative.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Understanding what personal sustainability really means
• Recognising early signs of depletion and burnout
• Simple systems to protect your energy and time

This is your invitation to pause. To be pampered. To reconnect.

Perfect for women who care deeply, give generously, and want to sustain their work, family, and passions — without sacrificing themselves in the process.

Book Your Seat

]]> https://ellenclarke.com.au/sustainable-woman-one-night-one-change/feed/ 1 https://ellenclarke.com.au/sustainable-tattoos-never-thought-id-be-saying-that/ https://ellenclarke.com.au/sustainable-tattoos-never-thought-id-be-saying-that/#comments Wed, 25 Mar 2026 10:24:52 +0000 https://ellenclarke.com.au/?p=253558

I never thought I’d be writing about sustainable tattoos.

And yet, here we are.

Recently I sat for six hours while Justin from The Wolves Den worked patiently and meticulously on my tattoo. Somewhere between the first stencil placement and the final wipe-down, I realised this process had far more in common with sustainability than I’d ever considered.

Stencil placement

When we talk about sustainability, we often think about food, gardens, waste reduction, or energy use. But for me, sustainability is also about how we sustain ourselves. The people we choose to support us. The care taken in the process. The long view.

And tattooing, done properly, is absolutely a long-view art.

More Than “Just” Putting Ink on Skin

One of the things Justin and I discussed is that tattooing isn’t a job you do for easy money. It’s something you do for the love of the art.

For every hour spent tattooing, there are hours of unpaid work behind the scenes:

• Designing the piece
• Redrawing and refining
• Adjusting for placement
• Ensuring it flows with the body
• Making sure it will age well over time

A tattoo isn’t a flat image being stuck onto a flat surface. It has to wrap, move, and live on a body that bends, stretches, and changes. Placement matters. Proportion matters. Body shape matters.

A good tattooist thinks about all of this before the machine even turns on.

That’s not just art.

That’s care.

The Science Behind the Art

Something that fascinated me was hearing Justin explain how he mixes his own shade of black.

Not all blacks are the same.

Different shades show up differently on different skin tones. Different skin types hold ink differently. Some skin takes ink quickly; some requires a slower, more layered approach. Some areas of the body are tougher. Some are delicate. Some fade differently over time.

A sustainable tattoo isn’t about copying an image from Pinterest and hoping for the best.

Still fresh & sore

It’s about understanding:

• The chemistry of ink
• The biology of skin
• The individuality of the person wearing it

It’s skilled, technical work layered underneath creativity.

What Do I Mean by a “Sustainable Tattoo”?

I don’t mean eco-ink or bamboo aftercare products (though that’s a separate conversation).

I mean this:

A sustainable tattoo is one created in partnership.

It’s finding the right person who will:

• Support your idea
• Gently refine your vision
• Explain what will and won’t work
• Adjust for your skin type
• Consider your body’s shape and movement
• Care about the final result as much as you do

Sometimes that means suggesting changes.
Sometimes it means saying, “This won’t work the way you think it will.”
And sometimes it means a tattooist having to decide whether to complete a job they aren’t proud of — or decline it altogether.

That’s not ego.

That’s integrity.

And integrity is sustainable.

How Does a Tattooist Sustain Themselves?

Our conversation turned to something we don’t often think about.

How does a tattooist sustain themselves?

They are artists. Small business owners. Designers. Technicians. Emotional holders of space. And — let’s be honest — professional pain inflictors.

Not the quick, “just a scratch” kind of pain.

The six-hour session kind.
The multiple-session kind.

Sustaining myself for the long haul

There is a mental load in knowing you are causing someone discomfort — even willingly, even consensually — and needing to stay calm, focused, steady and precise for every minute of it.

There’s physical strain — hours spent hunched forward, leaning across bodies to reach awkward angles, holding intense focus while your back, neck and shoulders quietly protest. Tattooing can be uncomfortable for the body performing it.

There’s creative pressure. There’s reputation. There’s the vulnerability of putting permanent art into the world attached to your name.

Staying sustainable in that kind of work takes boundaries. It takes pride in craftsmanship. It takes saying no when necessary. Choosing clients carefully. Loving the art more than the income.

And perhaps most of all, it takes caring enough about the work — and about yourself — to ensure you can keep doing it long term.

Why This Matters to Me

In my business, I talk a lot about personal sustainability — especially for women.

About building systems and support that allow you to continue doing what you love without burning out.

Sitting in that chair today, I realised something.

The themes are the same.

There is the mental load — holding space for others, carrying responsibility, thinking ahead.

There is the physical load — the long days, the tired bodies, the tension we ignore because there’s still more to do.

There is the creative and reputational pressure — wanting to do meaningful work, to do it well, to have it reflect who we truly are.

And then there are the boundaries.

The quiet, powerful decisions about what we will say yes to.
What we will reshape.
What we will decline.
What we will protect.

Watching Justin from The Wolves Den work reminded me that sustainability isn’t just about the person receiving the service.

It’s about the practitioner too.

Ellen’s Evaluation

When we choose people who care deeply about their craft — whether it’s a tattooist, a gardener, a teacher, or a facilitator — we are choosing sustainability.

We are choosing long-term thinking over short-term convenience.
Quality over speed.
Relationship over transaction.

And we are also reminded to offer that same care to ourselves.

Never thought I’d be saying this, but yes – sustainable tattoos are absolutely a thing.

And maybe sustainable lives are built the very same way — slowly, intentionally, and with people who honour the craft. A huge Thank You to Justin, for supporting my in my tattoo journey and for honouring your craft.

ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP

Creating a more sustainable kitchen doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

This workshop is designed to help you build simple, realistic systems that support both your household and the environment—without adding extra stress to your day.

We’ll focus on practical changes that make everyday life easier, helping you feel more organised, more in control, and more confident in your kitchen.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• Simple, low-tox ways to clean your kitchen
• Reducing waste from everyday kitchen habits
• Practical systems that help keep things manageable
• How small changes can save time, money and mental energy

WHO THIS IS FOR

This workshop is perfect for you if you:

• Feel overwhelmed trying to “do sustainability properly”
• Want to reduce waste but don’t know where to start
• Are short on time, energy, or mental load
• Prefer practical, realistic solutions over perfection

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A relaxed, supportive environment
• Practical, down-to-earth guidance
• Real-life examples (not perfection!)
• Opportunities to ask questions
• Simple ideas you can start using straight away

A NOTE FROM ME

I created this workshop after experiencing my own near burnout while trying to “do all the right things.”

Sustainability should support your life—not exhaust you.

This session is about finding a way that works for you.

Book Your Seat

ABOUT THIS WORKSHOP

Growing mushrooms at home might sound complicated—but it’s far more achievable than most people think.

This workshop will introduce you to the basics of mushroom growing in a way that’s simple, practical, and approachable. Whether you’re completely new or just curious, you’ll walk away with a clear understanding of how it all works and how to get started at home.

We’ll also explore the fascinating world of fungi—because once you start learning about mushrooms, it’s hard not to get hooked.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN

• The basics of how mushrooms grow
• Easy methods for growing mushrooms at home
• The materials and setups that work best for beginners
• Common mistakes and how to avoid them
• How to care for your mushrooms once they start growing
• How to use them once you grow them

WHO THIS IS FOR

This workshop is perfect for you if you:

• Are curious about growing your own food in new ways
• Love learning about nature, gardening, or sustainability
• Want a low-space growing option (great for small homes)
• Enjoy hands-on, practical learning
• Have tried (or thought about trying) mushroom kits and want to go further

WHAT TO EXPECT

• A relaxed, friendly environment
• Clear, beginner-friendly explanations
• A mix of practical guidance and interesting science
• Real examples of how to grow at home
• Plenty of time for questions

HEALTH & SUSTAINABILITY BENEFITS

• Mushrooms are rich in nutrients and can support a healthy diet
• Growing your own reduces packaging and food miles
• Mushroom growing can use recycled materials like coffee grounds and straw
• A great way to connect with natural systems in a completely different way

🍄 WHAT YOU’LL TAKE HOME

• Understanding of mushroom growth cycle & growing needs
• Your own mushroom starter to get your “growing”
• Confidence to start your mushroom growing journey

In a world grappling with climate change, resource depletion, and environmental degradation, the role of our youth in driving sustainable change has never been more crucial. Encouraging and supporting young people to learn about sustainability and to pursue their ideas, goals, and dreams is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic necessity. I believe that the future of our planet lies in the hands of our youth, and their potential to create a greener, more sustainable world.

The Power of Youth in Sustainability

Young people bring a unique perspective to sustainability. They are naturally curious, innovative, and passionate about making a difference. This generation has grown up with an acute awareness of environmental issues, thanks to the internet and social media. They are not just passive recipients of information but active participants in the dialogue about our planet’s future. By nurturing their interest and providing them with the tools and resources they need, we can harness their potential to drive meaningful change.

Why Support Matters

Supporting youth in sustainability is about more than just education; it is about empowerment. When young people feel supported, they are more likely to pursue their ideas and take action. This support can come in many forms:

1. Education and Awareness: Providing young people with accurate information about environmental issues is the first step. This includes integrating sustainability into school curriculums and offering extracurricular programs focused on environmental science and eco-friendly practices.

2. Mentorship and Guidance: Connecting young people with mentors who are experienced in sustainability can provide invaluable guidance. Mentors can help young people navigate challenges, refine their ideas, and turn their dreams into reality.

3. Resources and Funding: Many young people have brilliant ideas but lack the resources to implement them. By providing funding, materials, and access to technology, we can help bring their projects to life.

4. Community Support: A supportive community can make all the difference. Encouraging family, friends, and local organizations to back young people’s initiatives can boost their confidence and provide a network of support.

Fostering Innovation

Innovation is at the heart of sustainability, and young people are natural innovators. They are not bound by the status quo and are willing to think outside the box. Encouraging this innovative spirit can lead to groundbreaking solutions to environmental challenges. From developing new technologies to creating sustainable businesses, the possibilities are endless when we invest in the creativity and determination of our youth.

Real-World Examples

There are countless examples of young people making a significant impact in sustainability:

• Greta Thunberg: At just 15, Greta began her climate strikes, inspiring millions of young people worldwide to demand action on climate change. Her determination and activism have brought global attention to the urgent need for environmental action.

• Boyan Slat: As a teenager, Boyan founded The Ocean Cleanup, an organization dedicated to removing plastic from the world’s oceans. His innovative approach and persistence have resulted in the development of advanced technologies aimed at addressing one of our most pressing environmental issues.

• Maya Penn: A young entrepreneur, Maya started her eco-friendly fashion company at the age of 8. She uses her platform to advocate for sustainable fashion and environmental awareness, proving that age is no barrier to making a difference.

These young leaders exemplify what is possible when youth are encouraged and supported in their sustainability efforts. Their stories inspire other young people to believe in their ability to effect change and remind us all of the power of determination and innovation.

Ellen’s Evaluation

The journey towards a sustainable future is a collective effort, and our youth are at the forefront of this movement. By supporting and encouraging them, we are investing in a brighter, greener future for all. We need to foster the potential of young people and help them turn their sustainability dreams into reality. Let’s work together to empower the next generation and create a sustainable world.

Together, we can create a world where young people’s ideas and dreams for a greener planet become a reality. Let’s Make One Change to support them. Comment below what your change will be.

However, one of the most important things that we can do to help preserve our planet is to focus on our own self-interest – when we make more sustainable choices, we improve our lives in many ways.

Being selfish benefits the planet

We need to focus on sustainable living not only for the planet but for our own well-being. When we live unsustainable lifestyles, it takes a toll on our health both mentally and physically. By making sustainable choices, we can help preserve our planet and create a healthier balance in our own lives. 

“Put your own oxygen mask on first.”  If we are unable to sustain our minds, bodies and spirits, how can we support and care for others, much less the planet. 

If you died today from a stress- or lifestyle-related illness, your family would be devastated and your work would be inconvenienced. The planet would still continue on the same but it would benefit so much more if you and your potential to make changes were still around.

In this article, we will explore five surprising reasons why Sustainability Needs to Start With Ourselves.

How You Can Start Living Sustainably

Many people have heard the term sustainable living, but not everyone understands what it means. Sustainable living is simply living in a way that meets our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In other words, it’s about living in harmony with the planet.

There are many ways to live sustainably, but they all start with a basic respect for nature.

Reducing chemicals in our lives

The environment is critical to our health. By reducing the number of chemicals we use, we help reduce the environmental impact of our activities.

When we use fewer chemicals, we also help reduce the impact of our activities on the environment. This is important not only for the planet but also for our own health. Chemicals can be found in many aspects of our lives, from the food we eat to the cleaning products we use.

While they may make our lives easier in the short term, they can also have harmful effects on our health. Studies have linked exposure to chemicals to a variety of health problems, including cancer, reproductive issues, and developmental problems.

By reducing the number of chemicals we’re exposed to, we can help protect our health. Additionally, choosing cleaning products and personal care products that are made with natural ingredients can help reduce the environmental impact of our activities.

Maintaining a healthy balance in our lives

Sustainability is important for many reasons, but one of the most important is that it can help us maintain a healthy balance in our lives. With our work and lives becoming increasingly more demanding and stressful, it’s more important than ever to focus on our own well-being. In this context, sustainability is not just about preserving our planet – it is about preserving our own well-being.

Self-interest is not a new concept. In fact, it is something that has been talked about for centuries. The Greek philosopher Aristotle argued that humans are selfish by nature and that we should focus on our own self-interest in order to achieve eudaimonia, or “human flourishing.”

Sustainable living can help reduce our carbon footprint

Climate change is a real and pressing threat, and one of the ways we can help reduce our carbon footprint is by being more sustainable. Sustainable living involves reducing our reliance on non-renewable resources and conserving energy. In addition, sustainability can help us conserve natural resources and preserve biodiversity and ecosystems. 

Better planning can help us to reduce our vehicle usage, saving us time, money and decreasing our environmental impact. Walking or riding a bike when possible can help our physical and mental health, and definitely reduces our carbon footprint.

Buy fresh food locally

Buying locally sourced food allows us more options for choice and is one of the most important things we can do to live sustainably. Not only does it reduce our carbon footprint by cutting down on transportation emissions, but it also supports sustainable farming practices. When we buy locally sourced food, we are choosing to support farmers who are using sustainable methods to produce their food.

Additionally, supporting local businesses helps to keep money within our community, which strengthens the local economy and helps to grow sustainable communities.

Sustainability can help us live a more ethical life

Sustainable living is a way of life that is focused on meeting our needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their needs. This means using resources in a way that doesn’t damage or destroy ecosystems. It also means finding ways to meet our needs without causing pollution or using up too much of the Earth’s resources.

Resource scarcity can lead to inequality of power within groups. When this happens, it can lead to conflict and tension and can result in members feeling marginalized or excluded. Because sustainability can help find ways to use resources more efficiently, it can help tackle these issues.

Sustainable living is often seen as something that only environmentalists or “tree huggers” are interested in, but the truth is that it’s something we should all be striving for. After all, we all want to live on a healthy planet where we can enjoy clean air, freshwater, and plenty of green space. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to start making sustainable living a priority.

Ellen’s Evaluation

In conclusion, it’s in our self-interest to focus on sustainability. The benefits of sustainable living are many, and they are worth taking the time to explore. When we make more sustainable choices, we improve our lives in many ways. By being more sustainable, we can help protect our planet and its resources for future generations.

I’m off to be selfish, give myself permission to have “Me Time” in my garden, and enjoy this beautiful planet we live on. Let me know what you are going to choose for your sustainably selfish self-care in the comments below.

In our world of abundance there is often a lot of food waste, creating enormous landfill issues. Food Is Free is a movement that is working to reduce the issue of food waste and at the same time, help those in need. This is done by collecting food that would otherwise be thrown away.

The Food is Free initiative started in Austin, Texas. Australia’s turn came when Lou Ridsdale decided to set up a space next to her home in a Ballarat laneway, in 2014. It can now be found in many suburbs around Melbourne, including the one I have set up.

What is Food Waste?

Food waste is the discarding of edible food that is not eaten or used. It can refer to the intentional or unintentional discard of food by individuals, businesses, and governments. Food waste can take many forms, including spoilage and inedible parts of food that are discarded before they are consumed.

The National Food Waste Strategy reported that “food waste is estimated to cost the Australian economy $20 billion each year.”(2017, P.3) 

Where does Food Waste come from?

In developed countries, about one-third of all food produced is wasted or lost due to inefficiencies in the supply chain and consumers’ unwillingness or inability to properly store and use it. Food waste comes from a variety of sources, including homes, restaurants, grocery stores, and food processing plants. There is also a mindset of needing fruit and vegetables to be “perfect” for us to buy it, leading to waste at the farm due to blemished or imperfect product.

The Negative Impacts of Food Waste

Food waste is a serious issue that has negative impacts on both the environment and our economy. Australia throwing away around $20 billion in food waste creates problems because it uses taxpayers money to dispose of this food waste, and it also creates environmental problems due to the release of harmful greenhouse gases from decomposing food.

According to the United Nations, food waste amounts to about 1.3 billion tons per year, which is equivalent to about one third of global greenhouse gas emissions. This wasted food costs consumers an estimated $750 billion annually. In addition, food waste can have a negative impact on the economy because it takes up valuable resources (such as water) and produces methane, a potent greenhouse gas.

How to Reduce Food Waste

There are a number of ways that we can reduce food waste. We can start by educating ourselves and others about the issue. We can also make changes to our own behavior to reduce the amount of food that we waste. Finally, we can work to change the policies and practices that influence how much food is wasted.

1. Look for ways to reduce food waste before it happens.

• Be mindful of how you grocery shop and cook.
• Use up food before it goes bad.
• Buy only what you need, and don’t overbuy or impulse buy

2. Store food properly to avoid wasting food.

• Be sure to store food properly and use it before it goes bad.
• Freeze food for later.
• Understand safe food handling and storing techniques.

3. Use leftovers wisely

Use a meal plan to help avoid waste and ensure leftovers will be used.

Cook up leftovers in a new way to create new and delicious meals.

Plan meals with work or school lunches in mind for the next day.

4. Choose other methods for dealing with food waste

Feed to chickens or worm farm.

Start composting food scraps

If you are unable to do either of the above, check out ShareWaste to pass on your waste to locals near you.

5. Utilise a Food Is Free Pantry

Drop excess food at your local Food Is Free (check their rules for donations)

Start a Food Is Free pantry

How to set up a Food Is Free Pantry

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the best way to set up a Food Is Free pantry will vary depending on the size and needs of your community and how much time and space you have available. However, some tips on how to set up a food pantry include:

• establishing guidelines for what items are eligible for donation and setting up donation pick-up days.
• decide where you want to set up your pantry, keeping in mind it needs to be easily accessible and on your own property.
• approach local businesses to invite them to support your pantry with donations of excess food/produce items.
• involve your local community by asking for volunteers to help with collections.
• make the most of social media to put the word out and add a sign and information to your pantry so those walking past can see what it’s all about.

Benefits of Food Is Free

The last two years have been a struggle for many people around the world. People have lost businesses due to being unable to open. People have lost income due to being unable to work, either because their workplace was closed or they or a family member were unwell due to COVID-19. Industry slowed due to travel restrictions and reduced resource availability. So many individuals, businesses and countries have been impacted.

Some of the ways Food Is Free Pantries have helped:
– Provided support to those who have had reduced incomes, those who have been made homeless and those who have been struggling in general throughout the pandemic.
– Diverted food that would otherwise have ended up in landfill to those who could use and needed it.
– Increased community spirit by having something positive to get involved in.
– Increased community connection when neighbours would meet and chat while either volunteering for or collecting from the pantry.

Ellen’s Evaluation

Food is free is a great way to help the hungry and reduce food waste. The aim of this community initiative has been to put excess food and produce to good use rather than adding to the problem. From the personal experience of setting up my ow Food Is Free location, I have seen first-hand what a difference it can make in a community. As others contribute to the pantry and volunteer to help, our sense of connectedness has grown, taking me back to the small-town feel I knew as a child growing up.

I have heard many stories of those I have helped, of those on their way home from work, with no time to shop, who have grabbed bread rolls from the pantry to be able to feed hungry kids, of new mums too tired to think of what to cook who have picked up a jar of sauce mix and some pasta that happenned to be there at just the right time.

Although my pantry can be a lot of work at times, I have found it to be extremely rewarding and I would encourage anyone considering it to give it a go.

I’d love to hear your thoughts so please comment below to share your experience or ask any questions.

Mary, Mary, quite contrary, how does your garden grow?.

What is your Garden Goal?

Why do you want a garden? Is it to compliment the style of your home, show off to the neighbours, attract wildlife, shade you home, feed your family, help the environment…..?

For me, it was to feed my family and to help do my bit for the environment. But it also had to be appealing, be a place for relaxation and fit the space we had available. You need to decide what’s important for you and then go from there.

Things to take into consideration:

• Is your garden for entertaining or to give children or animals space to play?
• Is your garden a home food supply for you and your family?
• How much time do you want to spend maintaining your garden and how much time do you have available to maintain your garden?
• What size garden do you want and does it match the reality of what size garden you actually have?

There is no rule that says your garden has to provide your family with food or be filled with only native plants. Those in apartments won’t have the same space as someone in a house. You need to look at what works best for you and know that even planting a couple of pots with herbs or flowers is a start and is helping the environment.

I love my chickens, love my eggs. I like them fried, scrambled, poached and boiled. I like using them in egg sandwiches, for deviled eggs, in salads, in cakes, pancakes…. You get the idea.

What do I do with all of my eggshells? I definitely don’t put them in the bin. My girls worked hard to produce them so I want to make the most of them. I crush some of them and scatter on the ground with food scraps so the girls are getting some calcium back in and it also provides material for their crops to help grind their food as they consume it.

I also like to put them in my compost or worm farm. I have crushed the shells by hand in the past before getting my Thermomix. I always find pieces left months down the track when I’ve gone to use the compost in my garden. I popped some into the Thermomix and blitzed them at speed 8 for 5 seconds and ended up with fine ground particles. Wow, so much quicker and less harsh on the hands!

I now use them like this to sprinkle into the worm farm or compost. My next project is to turn some of the ground egg shell into home made “chalk”. I’ll post my results later.