By now you’ve probably seen the headlines warning that the shipping crisis threatens holiday shopping. The combination of workers sick with COVID-19, a lack of shipping containers, labor shortages, and natural disasters caused by climate change is going to make traditional gifts harder to find this holiday season. But those empty shelves may not be the disaster some are making […]
Did you know that old TVs and CRT computer monitors contain approximately 4 to 8 pounds of lead? Lead is a neurotoxin and improper disposal of these items allows this toxin to leach into the soil and groundwater, endangering ecosystems, wildlife, and humans. By recycling e-waste, you help ensure responsible disposal of harmful materials as well as the reclamation of […]
Purchasing a fresh pack of pretty ornaments to adorn your holiday tree is indeed enticing. Before you reach for your wallet, wait. Perhaps you want to embark on a different approach for bedazzling your branches. From delightful homemade baubles to elaborate works of art, upcycled materials present an opportunity for a wide range of festive ornaments. Whether you’re a DIYer or […]
Today’s quote is from Yvon Chouinard, rock climber, environmentalist, and founder of outdoor gear retailer Patagonia. He said, “Going back to a simpler life based on living by sufficiency rather than excess is not a step backward.” Is it time to simplify your life? Earth911 inspirations. Post them, share your desire to help people think of the planet first, every […]
Our oceans serve as a buffer to global warming by absorbing much of the heat that the vanishing polar ice doesn’t reflect back into space. Studies released in January 2019 suggest that earlier estimates of ocean warming were understated. In this quiz, test your knowledge of facts related to ocean warming. Making smart sustainable choices requires practice. Earth911’s weekly sustainability […]
Decorating for the holidays reminds me of my great-aunt Lucy. Her Christmas tree was a running joke in our family. Aunt Lucy had a very unique approach to decorating her Christmas tree … she didn’t. Well, maybe I should say that she decorated it once. Aunt Lucy had a large artificial tree set in a large ceramic pot. When she […]
If your household celebrates Christmas, chances are you put a Christmas tree up in your home. Annually, around 25-30 million real Christmas trees are sold in the U.S. This year, we’re expected to spend over $6 billion on real and artificial Christmas trees. Would you consider a low-cost, sustainable, alternative Christmas tree this year? It’s hard to deny the joy […]
Why should you recycle e-waste? Because electronics contain useful materials that can be recycled into new products. For example, plastics in e-waste can be recycled into garden furniture, battery components can be used in other batteries, and metals can be used to make jewelry and automotive parts. Print or share We Earthling posters to inspire others with your stories.
Outdoor enthusiasts are some of the most environmentally-conscious folks out there. Hikers and campers have a certain reverence for nature and its fragile ecosystems. Many follow the ethos of leave no trace — the philosophy of minimizing human impact on the planet. Outdoor lovers are mindful of what they own, why they own it, and what impact their stuff has […]
For some innovative upcyclers, aluminum is a favorite material. It is definitely an abundant material — after we pop the top, quench our thirst, and rinse out the residue. If you see some strikingly familiar images within the fanciful flamingo sculptures embellished by artist Francisco Sheuat, you’re on the right track. Perhaps it’s Sprite. Or Fanta. Or AriZona Iced Tea. Can […]