How can we improve the carbon footprint of our yards and gardens? The traditional tools and designs of American landscaping need to change to become sustainable, so let’s take a look at the factors that are easy and harder to change at our own homes. Small gas-powered engines of the type that power lawnmowers and leaf blowers emit about 242 […]
This is the final article in a five-part series that helps you find ways to reduce your carbon footprint by exploring the main carbon culprits in the average American’s lifestyle. Whatever deficiencies Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs may have, few people would argue with the idea that food is a basic necessity that outweighs most others. It’s only natural for people […]
During the 20th century, urban development took the value nature provides for granted. Some city planners even considered green spaces archaic and redundant because they did not deliver direct profit. Now we know better. Today’s city planners understand that climate change is real and environmental footprints have consequences for health and quality of life. We’ve realized that there is a […]
In this Earth911 quiz, check your knowledge of the water used to produce the food you eat. The water footprint of a meal is secondary to the CO2 emissions that were generated making your food, but water use is just as important to understand when making informed eating decisions for the planet. Making smart sustainable choices requires practice. Earth911’s weekly […]
The growing popularity of electric vehicles means that drivers need more places to charge them. This presents an enticing opportunity for businesses of all sizes while government agencies work to expand the nation’s charging infrastructure. Could installing EV charging stations in your parking lot benefit your small business? Installing car chargers can attract new customers, improve your business’ reputation, and […]
Pam Gil-Alabaster, Global Head of Sustainability and Social Impact at Mattel, maker of Barbie dolls, Hot Wheels, American Girl dolls, and more than 150 other brands of toys. She shares how Mattel works to eliminate manufacturing waste and replace virgin plastic in its packaging with recycled and recyclable plastics. The company has pledged to reduce its carbon footprint by 50% […]
There’s something special about grilling in the summer: the aroma, the familial togetherness, the juicy meal resulting from one’s efforts. Generally, hamburgers and hot dogs can be expected on the menu, as they’re traditional essentials at summertime cookouts. This summer, flip the script. Trade your beef for a grain that is more beneficial for your health, yet just as tasty: […]
The chemical group referred to as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) — more popularly called “forever chemicals” — is rapidly evolving into one of humanity’s most severe environmental crises. Found in soil, water, air, plants, and animals everywhere across the globe and tainting the blood of virtually all Americans, PFAS are linked to a host of human diseases, including cancer. […]
Every aspect of making, selling, and replacing clothing has a big environmental impact, from producing fabrics to manufacturing processes to how we consume and dispose of clothes we no longer want. Consider your clothing purchases carefully, avoid fast fashion, and choose quality clothing that will last a long time. A growing number of clothing brands and retailers now offer take-back […]
As we all know, recycling is crucial when it comes to caring for our planet — and instilling this responsibility in children when they are young is a surefire way to encourage them to do it for years to come. But how can we encourage kids to recycle without reducing it to an unpleasant chore? As a former preschool teacher, […]