The dozens of carbon calculators available as apps and on the web provide widely divergent estimates of your carbon footprint. Whether you choose to use one of the many calculators or want to assemble your own estimate — from finding and understanding your home energy usage to assessing a carbon calculator’s results — this article will break down how to […]
Algenesis is two companies in one, a biotechnology innovator and footwear maker. Making a new, sustainable material often requires the inventor to prove its utility before big companies will embrace it. Join the conversation for a story of discovery and finding a practical application to prove the value of a plant-based, compostable bioplastic foam. Stephen Mayfield, a professor of Biology […]
We talk a lot about the importance of sustainability and making sure the products we purchase are sustainable. But what is it, exactly, that makes a product sustainable? As you might suspect, “sustainable” can mean different things to different companies and individuals. If you want to be an informed consumer, you may find it helpful to consider the different aspects […]
The UK took a huge step toward reducing its single-use plastic pollution. Starting in October 2023, a variety of single-use items such as plastic cutlery, plates, bowls, polystyrene cups, cotton swabs, and balloon sticks will be banned. Fines of up to 10% of the UK revenue generated by the business that distributes these items and prison time for repeat offenders […]
In the last several years, heat pumps have skyrocketed in popularity and are now a common HVAC solution, even in colder climates. Technology advances have made heat pumps an efficient heating source at temperatures as low as -15 degrees Fahrenheit. In fact, Maine’s 2020 Climate Action Plan set a goal to have heat pumps in 45% of the housing stock […]
Every year about 20 billion pairs of footwear are produced across the globe. Unfortunately, the fashion industry is known for pollution, an immense water and carbon footprint, and poor working conditions. However, a handful of footwear companies are creating fundamentally more sustainable products and inspiring corporate giving programs. These innovative brands are taking actions such as opting for ocean freight […]
How can we reduce the environmental impact of constructing and operating buildings? In 2021, construction and building operations accounted for 37% of global CO2 emissions, hitting an all-time high of 10 gigatons of CO2 emissions, about 2% higher than pre-pandemic levels. We talk with Tommy Linstroth, founder and CEO of Green Badger, a software-as-a-service company that provides management tools for […]
Are you on your way to a zero waste household? If you haul your trash to the curb every week in a plastic trash bag, figuring out a more sustainable alternative to that plastic bag can be challenging. We’ve rounded up a few greener trash bag alternatives for your consideration to help you reduce your single-use plastic trash bag consumption. […]
Earth911 is honoring the 52 years of Earth Day with 52 Actions for the Earth. Each week through Earth Day 2023, we will share an action you can take to invest in the Earth and make your own life more sustainable. Valentine’s Day is a minor holiday, but it has a major environmental impact. This week, you can invest in […]
Phone cases for our smartphones seem like a smart investment. But what if you’re trying to reduce your use of plastic? Several brands now feature phone cases made of compostable bioplastic. Are compostable plastic phone cases a better choice? Two manufacturers are out in front in the compostable phone case world: Pela and EcoBlvd. Both make claims that the typical […]