When you throw something away, where does it go? There is no “away”. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, more than 80 percent of our trash goes to a landfill. Only 20 percent is burned in incinerators with energy recovery. Most of the garbage you’ve thrown away, therefore, is still out there and will …
What’s the impact of your daily commute? It’s bigger than you think. Your individual gas-powered vehicle creates a large amount of air pollution and greenhouse gases that contribute to global warming. The average commute to work is about 12 miles, and roughly 90 percent of us drive to work alone. In most urban areas, automobile …
Assemble a team of co-workers who want to reduce waste and improve the energy efficiency in your office. To build a “green team,” first get approval from management. Let them know about the team to see how your company might support it. Then:Recruit: Spread the word to coworkers and get members from all departments and …
Eco-Friendly Toothpaste This toothpaste is super-simple to make, and my teeth have never felt cleaner or looked shinier—they’re almost glossy! It’s incredible. This toothpaste will probably taste saltier than what you’re using now, but it doesn’t come in a plastic tube and also doesn’t have any strange, potentially harmful ingredients. Definitely worth a try in …
Zero waste offers obvious and essential environmental benefits: reduces contamination (reduced of dangerous solid and vaporous waste) and promotes conservation (decline in demand for natural resources). But the advantages of Zero Waste go far beyond the ecological aspects. In the home, it undeniably improves one’s standard of living. The uninformed might think that Zero Waste …
Almost every item you buy regularly now has a more sustainable greener substitute. From groceries to home accessories, today’s world offers shoppers green options with a low carbon footprint. Some cities prohibit or tax the use of non-reusable shopping bags. By joining this movement, you’re contributing to a more sustainable shopping experience. As an added …
What’s on your plate? Did you know that eating a pound of meat emits the same amount of greenhouse gases (GHG) as driving an SUV 40 miles? However, meat isn’t the only high-carb food on your plate. The carbon footprint from long-distance transportation and refrigeration. To reduce your impact, go for locally grown foods. Fruits …
What does it mean for something to be “eco-friendly”? Eco-products and materials are defined as non-polluting. These products promote green living or green manufacturing practices that reduce the amount or type of resources used. In short, eco-products help the earth, they don’t cause harm to it. Green products are generally given this designation based on …
Understanding and using the word environment or environmental is often associated with some form of human impact on natural systems. This context separates it from the word “ecological”, which can be defined as a concept of the interdependence of elements within a system. Environmental sustainability means meeting human needs without compromising the stability of ecosystems. …
Some of the cons to solar energy are expensive installation and batteries, depending on weather conditions, takes up a lot of space, and although low level, pollution impact does exist. 1. Pricey The acquisition costs for a solar system are quite high. This includes paying for the solar panels, inverter, batteries, wiring and installation. However, …
