Art, through its nonverbal mediums, has the power to captivate a viewer and inspire revolutions. Artistic movements have emerged as a reaction to societal change, with the art itself being a manifestation of reflection and perception. Historically, art has not only responded to humanity’s growing distance from nature but also helped lay the philosophical foundation for the environmental and climate activism that continues today.

Pop Art incorporated imagery from popular culture and advertising, often replicating or drawing inspiration from mass manufacturing processes. While Pop Art responded to the [rise of consumer culture](https://www.moma.org/collection/terms/pop-art/consumer-goods-mass-media-and-popular-culture), other artistic movements reflected broader consequences of modernity: humanity’s departure from the natural world.

For hundreds of years, we have sown the seeds of industrial plants, which have blossomed into mechanized, urban landscapes. When industrialism began in the late 1700s, [so did Romanticism](https://www.metmuseum.org/essays/romanticism). The Romantics believed that emotional power and natural intuition, not just reason and order, were equally valid ways to understand the world. Artists at this time focused on the beauty, awe, and the sublime in their work. Romantic art rejects industrial change, emphasizing an individual’s connection to nature and a longing for the old ways of life. 

In Caspar David Friedrich’s 1818 painting, _[The](https://www.caspardavidfriedrich.org/The-Wanderer-Above-The-Mists-1817-18.html)_[ _Wanderer Above the Mists_](https://www.caspardavidfriedrich.org/The-Wanderer-Above-The-Mists-1817-18.html), a lone man stands at the edge of a rocky cliff. He faces towards the foggy landscape below him, framed by vast and towering mountains. The work reflects a core belief of Romanticism: nature is not something to be conquered, but something to be confronted with humility and awe. 

This perspective of the natural world inspired artists to capture the iconic American landscape, such as Albert Bierstadt in _[Gates of the Yosemite](https://americanart.si.edu/artwork/gates-yosemite-75432)_ and Thomas Moran in _[The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone](https://americanart.si.edu/artwork/grand-canyon-yellowstone-17831)_. Their paintings show nature in its rawest form, bigger than life, overfilled with emotion. The way they portrayed landscapes created worthiness for protection from industrial, mechanized use. 

Along with inspiring other environmental artists, Romantic thought created a domino effect of romantic ideals. It fostered a philosophical world in which pioneering thinkers like Aldo Leopold, author of _A Sand County Almanac_, could later thrive. He developed the [Land Ethic](https://www.aldoleopold.org/about/the-land-ethic), a moral code that tied romantic ideals to emerging environmentalism. The Land Ethic presents the idea of the natural world as a community, one in which humans are deeply intertwined. This concept is one of emotion, declaring a respectful connection over domination in the natural world.

By reframing the natural world as sublime rather than rational, the movement reshaped how Americans understood the natural world. It invited dialogue about preservation and conservation, and eventually shaped national policy. After _The Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone_ reached the desks of the federal government, “[capturing the imagination of Congress](https://www.nps.gov/yell/learn/historyculture/yellowstoneestablishment.htm),” President Ulysses S. Grant established the first national park, Yellowstone National Park. 

The remains of Romanticism are sprinkled throughout modern environmentalism. The Romantic philosophical values of reverence and emotion for the natural world over an industrial one are very much prevalent today. Romantic artists transformed landscapes into symbols of ethical responsibility, inspiring protective institutions and pioneering environmental thinkers like Aldo Leopold. Even though the movement began hundreds of years ago, it left a living influence on environmental change. Today, environmental activism still draws on this legacy of using art and imagery to spark care, reflection, and action.


Historical Art Movements and Environmentalism

Clothing made of natural fabrics is better for our environment and [human health](https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/effect-of-fabrics-health-environment/), and does not shed [microplastics](https://earth.org/microplastic-pollution-linked-to-synthetic-fast-fashion/) into local ecosystems when washed. Natural fabrics include cotton, linen, hemp, silk, and wool. These fabrics are biodegradable, renewable, and usually require less chemical processing and energy to produce.

In contrast, fast fashion is normally made with semi-synthetic or synthetic fabrics, like polyester and nylon. These fabrics are made from fossil fuels and require more energy to produce. They [linger in the environment](https://cottonique.com/blogs/articles/how-long-will-it-take-for-fabrics-to-decompose?srsltid=AfmBOooGk7uwfe2rOT4PdNClTXypWgsJoxmgPjh7Iuscm7Lc6PjiqhOF) for a long time, contributing to plastic pollution and polluting the land and water sources. They also typically do not last very long or are not good quality, so you end up needing to buy more sooner.

**CERTIFICATIONS**

Unfortunately, buying natural fabrics is not enough to fully protect yourself, your family, or the environment. As consumers, we also have to be aware of the chemicals that are used during the production process. Even cotton advertised as organic, although less likely to be saturated with chemicals and [PFAS](https://levinlaw.com/newsroom/10-things-you-about-pfas-in-clothing/), can be dangerous to human and environmental health. 

Shopping for pieces that are certified by reputable organizations that have standards for measuring the safety of textiles and clothing is the best option, but more expensive than clothing that is not regulated. Although this clothing generally lasts longer and protects you, your family, and our environment from chemical exposure, realistically, it needs be thought of as more of an investment, which is a barrier for some. 

Buying with brands that are known to be safe, sustainable, and that avoid chemicals is also not foolproof. Quince, for instance, offers some pieces that are Oeko-Tex certified, while others are not, but they are fully transparent about the certifications of each item. 

There is growing pressure on the fashion industry to remove PFAS from its supply chain to protect environmental and consumer health, but a lot of brands have not fully transitioned to cleaning up their production methods or use of chemicals.

**_Certifications to look for include:_**

- **GOTS certified, specially GOTS 7.0.** [GOTS](https://global-standard.org/the-standard) is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for [Organic Fibres ](https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/organic-fibres)including [Enviromental Criteria](https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/ecological-and-social-criteria), backed up by [Third-Party Certification](https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/third-party-certification) of [All Processing Stages](https://global-standard.org/the-standard/gots-key-features/all-processing-stages). GOTS certified final products may include fibre products, yarns, fabrics, clothes, home textiles, mattresses, personal hygiene products, as well as food contact textiles and more. Check out [Ready to explore GOTS?](https://www.behindtheseams.eco/) for a list of GOTS certified brands.

- **Oeko Tex:** Oeko Tex ensures textiles like clothing, bedding, furniture, and other items are free from harmful substances. They aim to regulate chemicals that endanger human health, enforce fair working conditions, and protect the environment. Check out [OEKO-TEX® Directory](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/oeko-tex-directory) to find companies that are oeko-tex certified.

- [OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-standard-100) 
- [OEKO-TEX® ORGANIC COTTON](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-organic-cotton)
- [OEKO-TEX® LEATHER STANDARD](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-leather-standard)
- [OEKO-TEX® STeP](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-step)
- [OEKO-TEX® ECO PASSPORT](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-eco-passport)
- [OEKO-TEX® RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS](https://www.oeko-tex.com/en/our-standards/oeko-tex-responsible-business)

- **Organic Content Standard**. [OCS](https://textileexchange.org/organic-content-standard/) works to make sure that companies produce textiles in ways that support planetary health. OCS does not ensure that clothing is free from toxic chemicals, including PFAS.

Check out [Spot eco-friendly clothing: Certified Fashion](https://ttps//www.considerate-consumer.com/certified-fashion) and [Understanding Europe's Sustainability Certifications for Fashion Brands](https://recovo.co/en/blog/article/europe-fashion-certifications) to learn more about identifying clothing and textiles that protect human health, the environment, and animal welfare. Europe, in general, is more strict about regulating clothing and textile safety than the states.

**TYPES OF FABRICS**

**Synthetic Fabrics**
_Synthetic fabrics are created from chemical compounds, often derived from petroleum, coal, or natural gas._

**_Nylon_** is a synthetic, man-made fabric sourced from petrochemicals or crude oil extracts. 

**_Polyester_** is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based chemicals. Its name is shortened to represent a synthetic man-made polymer and is commonly known as a PET (polyethylene terephthalate).

**_Spandex (Lyrca)_** is a synthetic fabric made from a combination of[ polyester and polyurethane](https://pubsapp.acs.org/cen/whatstuff/stuff/7707scitek4.html).

**Semi-Synthetic Fabrics**
_Semi-synthetic fibers are derived from renewable materials found in nature, the most common being wood pulp, that are chemically dissolved and then regenerated._

**_Rayon_** is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood and related agricultural products.

**_Modal_** is a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech tree pulp.

**_Lyocell_** is a semi-synthetic fabric primarily made from wood pulp, specifically the cellulose within the wood. 

**Natural Fabrics**
_Natural fibers are raw materials obtained from plants, animals, or minerals that can be used to create fabrics, textiles, and other materials._
**[Cotton](https://www.masterclass.com/articles/what-is-cotton) **is a natural fabric made from a carbohydrate called cellulose.  

**_Wool_** is made from the fleece of animals, primarily sheep, and composed of the protein keratin.

**_Silk_** mainly consists of fibroin, a protein that certain types of insect larvae secrete to make cocoons.

**_Hemp_** is made from the stem of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa L.), a cannabis species.

**_Linen_** is made from the fibers of the flax plant (Linum usitatissimum).

_Here’s a comprehensive list of [natural fibers](https://www.onlineclothingstudy.com/2021/12/20-natural-fibres-which-tops-list.html)._ 

**Where to buy natural clothing**

These stores sell 100% natural clothing, but be sure to check the label on each piece. Some items are a mix of natural and synthetic fibers and they may or may not be certified. I recently began shopping online for clothing made in Europe because the EU has stricter regulations on clothing and textiles. I try to buy sale items to save money.

**New Clothes**
- [Quince](https://www.quince.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopq6Ov6GVDGtIBhwbeqmeEyxEvuqOooCEQGHAyNbpIIPmFELaAI)
- [Pact](https://wearpact.com/)
- [MATE the Label](https://matethelabel.com/?srsltid=AfmBOore9EOH31-ecGxgCxTK6ZiYiEtO4cZYAz6KLLTfcP8iwIIbC4Kc)
- [Etsy](https://www.etsy.com/) 
- and [many more](https://www.behindtheseams.eco/)

**Second-Hand Online**
- [ThredUp](https://www.thredup.com/women/tops?department_tags=women&category_tags=tops&referral_code=adwords_pla&iv_=__iv_p_1_a_22134616771_g__c__w__n_x_d_c_v__l__t__r__x__y__f__o__z__i__j__s__e__h_1018095_ii__gg_6546625483_vi__&gclsrc=aw.ds&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22134632821&gbraid=0AAAAADCdW5As-dXJFbyie2xyjSKNNgMfi&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-8ukpb2ojQMVlDIIBR0Y-B9QEAAYASAAEgJSXfD_BwE)
- [Poshmark](https://poshmark.com/)
- [eBay](https://www.ebay.com/)
- [Depop](https://www.depop.com/)
- [Patagonia Worn Wear](https://wornwear.patagonia.com/)
- [Swap](https://swap.com/)
- [The RealReal](https://www.therealreal.com/)

**More Reading & Resources**
Plastic Soup Foundation, [Do clothes make us sick?](https://www.plasticsoupfoundation.org/rapporten/Do-clothes-make-us-sick-Fashion-fibers-and-human-health-PSF2022-1.pdf)
Earth.org, [Microplastic Pollution Linked to Synthetic Fast Fashion](https://earth.org/microplastic-pollution-linked-to-synthetic-fast-fashion/)
Ecocult, [Beyond Organic: Brands That Use Traceable Cotton and Support Regenerative Cotton Farmers](https://ecocult.com/brands-traceable-organic-regenerative-sustainable-cotton/)
[Environmental Working Group](https://www.ewg.org/withoutintentionallyaddedpfaspfc)
[Good on You](https://goodonyou.eco/most-ethical-and-sustainable-clothing-brands-from-us/)

_Published originally on <a href="https://www.becomeaclimateactivist.org/all-posts/sustainable-clothes" target="\_blank">Act on Climate Change</a>_


Sustainable Clothing

Throwing a party doesn’t have to come at the planet’s expense. With a little planning and creativity, you can host a celebration that’s joyful, stylish, and sustainable without feeling like you’re giving anything up. The key is to focus on small, intentional choices that reduce waste while keeping the fun alive.

**Sustainable vs. Conventional Party Practices**

The idea that “eco-friendly” equals “austere” couldn’t be further from the truth. Sustainable parties thrive on creativity. Think of it this way: you’re designing an experience that celebrates both people and the planet. Consider ideas like [swapping disposable decorations](https://lilymuffins.com/blog-2020-4-easy-eco-friendly-party-swaps-for-an-eco-concious-celebration/) for natural ones, like fresh herbs, leaves, or wildflowers in reusable jars. Ditch plastic cups and borrow or rent real glassware instead. This small mindset shift transforms your event from routine to remarkable. Guests often remember the thoughtful, earthy vibe long after the lights go out.

Here’s a simple view of how eco-friendly choices stack up against traditional ones:

**Party Element** - Decorations 
- **Conventional Approach** - Balloons, plastic streamers 
- **Sustainable Alternative** - Reusable bunting, potted plants, fabric garlands 

**Party Element** - Dinnerware
- **Conventional Approach** - Single-use plates and cups
- **Sustainable Alternative** - Borrowed dishes, compostable ware

**Party Element** - Invitations
- **Conventional Approach** - Printed cardstock
- **Sustainable Alternative** - Digital or printable invitations for free

**Party Element** - [Food Waste](https://stopfoodwaste.org/tips/blog/5-tips-for-a-low-waste-party)
- **Conventional Approach** - Portions too big
- **Sustainable Alternative** - RSVP tracking and creative leftovers

**Party Element** - Party Favors
- **Conventional Approach** - Plastic trinkets
- **Sustainable Alternative** - [Edible treats or seed packets](https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/edible-party-favors-for-kids/)

These swaps are subtle yet powerful. They reduce waste and signal mindfulness and care to your guests.

**How to Plan a Green Celebration Step-by-Step**

Follow this quick guide to keep your party planet-positive from start to finish:

1. Choose a venue that already aligns with your eco-values—like a local park or your backyard.
2. Send digital invitations or printable templates instead of paper cards.
3. Decorate with natural, reusable, or biodegradable materials.
4. [Plan a locally sourced menu](https://get.grubhub.com/blog/locally-sourced-food-2/) and compost food scraps.
5. Offer drinks in reusable containers or encourage guests to bring their own bottles.
6. [Skip plastic cutlery](https://www.nylcv.org/news/skip-the-stuff-a-simple-solution-to-the-single-use-plastics-epidemic/) - opt for bamboo, metal, or rental sets.
7. Create a clear recycling and compost station.
8. Give practical or consumable party favors (like homemade jam or herbs).

A thoughtful checklist like this keeps you on track and ensures sustainability is woven through every layer of your celebration.

**The Invitation: A Digital Start to a Greener Party**

Before guests even arrive, your eco-conscious planning begins with the invitations. Digital invites reduce paper waste, and modern design tools make them look stunning. You can create[ printable invitations for free](https://www.adobe.com/express/create/print/invitation) using easy online editors that let you customize fonts, images, and colors to match your theme.

These flexible templates allow you to send them digitally or print a few copies for keepsakes—all without compromising style or sustainability.

**Smart Ideas for Decorating and Entertaining**

A beautiful, eco-friendly party is about rethinking the ordinary. Here are some ideas to inspire your setup:

• Use string lights or candles instead of energy-hungry fixtures.

• Set up a “create-your-own drink” bar to minimize waste.

• Incorporate local flowers and greenery as décor.

• Encourage guests to bring reusable containers for leftovers.

• Play acoustic music or [host live performers](https://tseentertainment.com/4-tips-for-propelling-your-event-to-the-next-level-with-live-entertainment/) for a personal touch.

This approach turns sustainability into an aesthetic—it becomes the theme, not a limitation.

**Common Questions About Hosting Sustainably**

Before we wrap up, here are answers to questions hosts often ask when trying to make their celebrations greener:

**How can I manage waste easily at the event?**

**[Set up clearly labeled bins](https://www.polishedhabitat.com/how-to-label-storage-bins-on-a-dollar-tree-budget/)** for recycling, compost, and trash in visible spots. Assign a friend to help guide guests if needed.

**What about leftover food?**

Encourage guests to take some home or partner with a local food donation program.

**Isn’t it expensive to host sustainably?**

Not necessarily. Renting items or borrowing décor often costs less than buying disposables, and digital invites are free.

**Can I make it fun for kids too?**

Absolutely—plan nature-based games, DIY crafts, or plant-a-seed activities.

**Wrapping It All Up**

Hosting an environmentally conscious party isn’t about perfection, it’s about intention. By weaving sustainability into each decision, you create an event that’s meaningful and memorable. Your guests feel cared for, your impact lightens, and your celebration becomes something more than a moment—it becomes an example.

With every reused cup, every local bite, and every shared laugh, you remind everyone that the best parties are the ones that give something back.


Sustainability with Style: Hosting an Eco-Friendly Party

This Climate Glossary provides clear and concise definitions of key terms related to climate science, environmental change, and sustainability. It is designed to help readers better understand the language used in climate change discussions, from scientific reports to policy debates.

By familiarizing yourself with these concepts, you will be better equipped to engage with the challenges and solutions surrounding our rapidly changing planet due to burning oil, gas, and coal and cutting down forests.
 
**Adaptation:** Measures to prepare humans (from the individual to international levels) for present and future impacts of climate change. Examples include strengthening or building more resilient infrastructure, such as seawalls to counter sea-level rise or better drainage systems to manage flooding from more frequent and severe storms. It can also involve changing behaviors, including planting crops better able to withstand rising temperatures.

**Albedo:** The fraction of light reflected by a surface, up to 1 (all light is reflected). Earth surfaces—atmosphere, land, and oceans—reflect solar energy; lighter surfaces reflect more energy back into space, darker surfaces absorb more energy, thus contributing to global warming. As more snow and ice melts away from the Earth’s surface, the darker surfaces below absorb additional amounts of heat energy.

**Anthropogenic**: Environmental changes directly or indirectly connected to human activities.

**Atmosphere:** The layer of gases surrounding a planet or other celestial body. Earth’s atmosphere consists of the troposphere, stratosphere, mesosphere, thermosphere, and exosphere.

**Biodiversity:** The variety of all life on Earth and its interactions.

**Carbon Capture and Sequestration:** Using technologies to capture carbon dioxide emissions from facilities before they are released into the atmosphere, instead transporting the gas to inject and store it deep underground.

**Carbon Credit: **Credits provided by national governments, via the United Nations, that corporations can buy, enabling them to emit additional greenhouse gases above the limit set by the country. The number of credits reduces as time passes, with the aim of lowering companies’ emissions.

**Carbon Cycle:** The circulation of carbon atoms between Earth and its atmosphere, through natural and human processes including photosynthesis, decomposition, burning of fossil fuels, and land development.

**Carbon Dioxide (CO2):** A colorless and nonflammable gas (given normal temperatures and pressure) in which each molecule consists of one atom of carbon and two atoms of oxygen. One of the greenhouse gases.

**Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (CO2e):** A means for measuring and comparing the global warming potential (GWP) of greenhouse gases beyond solely carbon dioxide. Often includes CO2, methane, nitrous oxide (N2O), and various fluorinated gases. The formula is CO2e = (Mass of Gas) x (GWP of Gas).

**Carbon Footprint:** The amount of greenhouse gases emissions connected directly or indirectly to an individual, organization, event, or product.

**Carbon Market: **The market for buying and selling carbon credits. As described by _Investopedia_, there are two approaches: cap-and-trade programs and other compliance systems managed by governments, and voluntary programs run by the participants.

**Carbon Neutrality:** An equal balance between emission of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and its removal from the atmosphere. (See also Net Zero).

**Carbon Offsets**: A strategy for counterbalancing the carbon dioxide emitted by a business. A company can buy offsets, with the money used to fund projects such as reforestation, building renewable energy facilities, or supporting carbon capture and storage.

**Carbon Sink:** Natural systems that absorb and hold carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, primarily the oceans, plants, and soil.

**Carbon Source:** Processes that emit carbon dioxide into the atmosphere, from burning of fossil fuels to decomposition of organic materials.

**Climate:** An extended weather pattern for a specific region.

**Climate Change:** An extended change in average weather patterns at the local, regional, and global levels. Changes identified since the middle of the 20th century in the Earth climate have been linked directly to human activities.

**Climate Finance: **The application of bonds, grants, loans and other instruments to fund action on the climate crisis.

**Climate Justice: **The movement to acknowledge and address** t**he disparate impacts that climate change has on low-income communities and communities of color globally, often those who contributed least to the heating world. A branch of environmental justice.

**Climate Overshoot: **A temporary breach of the 1.5 degrees Celsius barrier for global warming above pre-industrial levels. It is expected to happen by the mid-21st century.

**Climate Refugees:** Those who are forced to leave their homes due to climate change impacts, such as devastating weather events or reduced availability of food and water in a region.

**Climate Resilience:** The capacity for adaption to, preparation for, and recovery from the impacts of climate change.

**Decarbonization:** Ending reliance on carbon-emitting fossil fuels in energy and other sectors.

**Deforestation:** The intentional clearing of forest land for separate uses. Removes trees that otherwise absorb carbon dioxide.

**Desertification:** A process that primarily impacts dry grassland areas globally, in which the land degrades into desert status due to climate and human factors.

**Direct Air Capture:** Technologies to extract carbon dioxide from the atmosphere for storage underground or use, to reduce its existing heating effect.

**Emissions:** The release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.

**Extreme Event**: An instance in which temperature, precipitation, flooding or other weather, climate, or environmental conditions exceed a specific value that is at the high or low ends of historical measurements. Climate change has increased the likelihood of such events, according to research.

**Feedback:** Processes initiated by a change to the climate that either reinforce or restrain that change. Positive feedback enhances that change—an example being reduced albedo due to warming, which allows the Earth’s surface to absorb more solar energy, which further melts ice and snow. Negative feedback constrains the climatic change—an example being water evaporation from hearing that creates additional clouds, which reflect solar energy out of the atmosphere.

**Fossil Fuels**: Non-renewable sources of energy (primarily coal, oil, and natural gas) formed underground from organic materials over millions of years of heat and pressure. Burning fossil fuels for energy and other uses is the primary cause of climate change by releasing carbon dioxide and other gases that trap heat within the atmosphere.

**Geoengineering:** Using new technologies to counter climate change by manipulating the environment, including removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and reflecting more solar energy away from Earth.

**Global Warming Potential (GWP**): The measurement of the amount of energy emitting 1 ton of a gas will absorb in a set amount of time, in comparison to that amount of carbon dioxide. A higher GWP indicates a higher amount of warming of the Earth relative to CO2.

**Greenhouse Effect:** The trapping of heat close to a planet’s surface by greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.** **The process is natural and was necessary for life to exist on Earth. But human emission of additional greenhouse gases, largely by burning fossil fuels, has intensified the process and increased the average temperature by nearly 1.5 degrees Celsius since the industrial age.

**Greenhouse Gases:** Gases that trap heat within a planet’s atmosphere. The release of those gases is called emissions; Carbon dioxide represents more than three-fourths of greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through burning of fossil fuels. It is followed distantly by methane, nitrous oxide, and trace amounts of other gases.

**Methane:** A colorless and odorless greenhouse gas that is produced by natural processes such as decomposition of organic material as well as by human activities including agriculture and extraction of fossil fuels. It traps heat more effectively than CO2 but remains in the atmosphere for a much shorter time.

**Mitigation:** Addressing the causes of climate change with the goal of stopping and ultimately reducing rising greenhouse gas levels that are trapping heat in the atmosphere. This would primarily be done by ending burning of fossil fuels but could involve additional approaches such as carbon capture and sequestration.

**Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs): **The specific commitments that countries make to advancing the goals of the Paris Agreement on climate change. NDCs are updated every five years, with increasing ambition.

**Nature-Based Solutions**: Applying nature and ecosystem functions to address climate change and other threats to the environment. For example, interventions to sustain coral reefs as a bulwark against devastating storms that grow more intense due to climate change.

**Net-Zero Emissions:** The point at which greenhouse gases are not added to the atmosphere. Given the likelihood of continuing emissions for the foreseeable future, that likely would involve removing gases in an amount equal to those being emitted.

**Ocean Acidification:** Increasing acidity of water as the oceans absorb roughly one-third the growing amount of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere, with impacts including reduced capacity of some fish to detect predators and reduced levels of carbonate ions that organisms such as oysters, clams, and more use to build their shells.

**Paris Agreement:** An international treaty that entered into force in November 2016, under which participating nations committed to taking steps toward the pact’s goals of keeping “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” and seeking “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.” As of 2025, it has 194 member states plus the European Union.

**Radiative Forcing:** The state in which the amount of energy that enters Earth’s atmosphere differs from the amount that leaves the atmosphere. In this case, the energy is solar radiation; when more enters than exits, this state warms the atmosphere.

**Renewable Energy:** Energy sourced from natural, non-finite processes such as sunlight, water, wind, and geothermal heat.

**Resilience: **The capacity of ecosystems, institutions, and the private sector to “bounce back” from the impacts of climate change through advance readiness and post-event response. The many building blocks of resilience can include enhanced natural systems, supply chain diversification, and infrastructure built to withstand climate change effects, according to IBM.

**Sea-Level Rise**: The rise in global mean sea level, primarily due to glacier melting and the expansion of water molecules as they warm. Both processes are linked to climate change.

**Sustainability:** An approach for meeting humanity’s needs while living within the boundaries of Earth’s natural systems. Sustainability has many aspects, from sustainable building to water conservation to stewardship of electronics.

**Tipping Point:** Thresholds in the climate system that, if breached, can lead to fast-moving and unstoppable changes in the system.

**Weather:** Atmospheric conditions at a particular time and place, encompassing heat, cold, wet, dry, and other statuses.


Earth Hero Climate Glossary

Love it. Hate it. Fear it. AI has woven itself into our everyday lives - most visibly when we search the web or use one of the many available AI agents. There are compelling environmental reasons not to go near ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and the others given the [sheer amount of energy that AI consumes](https://www.sustainabilitybynumbers.com/p/ai-energy-demand). But if you do partake, whether for research or daily information, you might ask: how do those agents respond when it comes to climate?

According to an article in Phys.org, “[AI is bad for the environment, and the problem is bigger than energy consumption](https://phys.org/news/2025-01-ai-bad-environment-problem-bigger.html),” the bots can be biased in how they present information. In the chatbot tests the researchers performed, they noted a “a reluctance to discuss the broader social, cultural and economic issues that are entangled in environmental challenges.”

So we decided to test it ourselves, using the most current versions (as of this writing) of the following chat agents: ChatGPT, Gemini, Grok, Meta AI (LLaMA), DeepSeek, Claude Sonnet, and Copilot. We asked the chatbots three primary questions (occasionally with follow-ups based on their responses): What is climate change and what are its causes? What are the primary causes of climate change? What are the optimal solutions for climate change?

Below is our analysis. You can also [read the complete answers here](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1rNUaozUC2rTzxG7X5IDCOD53Pn7KHCSVMhceRurlbII/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.aii16lsn1wlr) and draw your own conclusions.

**What We Found**
At first glance, all the responses were largely similar and correct. For example, in response to the first query, all agreed that climate change involves changing temperatures and weather patterns over a long time frame. They concurred that climate change is driven by human and natural activities, but diverged on an important point: Some chatbots stated directly that humans have by far been the greatest contributor to climate change in recent centuries, while others were less clear on that point.

For example:

From Gemini — “While some of these shifts may be natural, occurring due to changes in the sun's activity or large volcanic eruptions, the overwhelming scientific consensus is that the climate change we are currently experiencing is primarily caused by human activities since the 1800s.”

From Grok (X )— “Climate change is primarily driven by both natural and human-induced factors.” (Though it subsequently concluded by acknowledging that the current rate of climate change is “largely influenced” by human activities.

Pressed further on the second question, all the chatbots listed greenhouse gas emissions and burning of fossil fuels as the primary causes of climate change.

The chatbots likewise offered corresponding answers regarding the optimal solutions to climate change: transitioning to renewable energy, greater energy efficiency, electrification of transportation, carbon capture and storage, and so on. While all true, all the responses also fail to directly address the near-halving of emissions that would be necessary by 2030 to keep the Earth within 1.5 degrees Celsius of warming since the Industrial Age. This is in line with the findings of[ a far more rigorous study published in 2024 in the journal _Environmental Research Letters_,](https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ad95a2) that found, among other results, that “chatbots are prone to proposing incremental solutions to environmental challenges.”

**Letting the Bots Rate Their Own Answers**
We then got a little (lowercase) meta ourselves, and concluded the experiment by asking some of the chatbots to analyze and summarize the responses of all the chatbots to the three main questions. They largely gave themselves and the other AI a pass for what we might consider their failings.

“This comparison highlights that while different chatbots may approach the topic from slightly varied angles, the fundamental understanding and recommendations regarding climate change are aligned,” Copilot said, echoing the conclusions from ChatGPT and DeepSeek.

Their findings weren’t without interesting angles. ChatGPT concluded that Claude and Meta AI emphasized collective and policy measures to address the climate crisis, while ChatGPT and Gemini focused equally on individual and systemic measures. Meanwhile, Grok and DeepSeek highlighted “personal responsibility alongside governmental policies.” While individual and community actions have value, there is little question that it will take large-scale actions by governments and corporations to truly curb climate change.

In the end, it’s not clear whether there is an “intentional” bias built into any of the bots. Or whether it’s simply, as the Phys,org article noted, that they “present information in an oracular way, usually as a single text box written in an authoritative manner and understood as a synthesis of all digitalized (_sic_) knowledge.” What is clear is that we all, as consumers of information, should not take a bot’s answer as definitive and final. Perhaps we’ll get there one day soon, but for now don’t necessarily believe everything you read in a botversation.


Are AI Chatbots Biased on Climate?

Solid waste management is a significant concern worldwide as solid wastes generate externalities that impact human health, environmental quality, and economic stability. Poor waste management contributes to the pollution of land, air, and water, with ocean plastic pollution alone costing approximately $13 billion annually and methane emissions from organic waste contributing about 5% of global greenhouse gasses. According to the IMF in one of its working paper series [www.imf.org](https://www.imf.org/-/media/Files/Publications/WP/2019/wpiea2019283-print-pdf.ashx) the challenge is higher in developing economies where waste collection rates average only 43%, compared to 85% in upper-middle-income countries.

Developing countries often struggle with inadequate waste collection systems, particularly in low-income settlements where high-density living makes waste management even more difficult. Without regular collection services, waste ends up in open spaces, contributing to environmental contamination and public health issues, such as the spread of diseases like malaria, typhoid, and cholera.

Yet all hope is not lost; one innovative approach is the concept of paid waste returns, where individuals receive financial incentives for returning recyclable materials. The paid waste return system offers a promising solution to these challenges. By providing financial incentives for returning recyclable materials, such as glass bottles or cans, this system can improve recycling rates and reduce litter.

This system is not new, and it has been effective in some developed countries. For instance, in Ontario, Canada, a deposit return system for beverage containers helps reduce the volume of glass and other materials in landfills, repurposing them for higher-end uses like new bottles or road-building materials; see [Ontario's Deposit Return Program](https://github.com/EarthHeroOrg/EarthHeroiOS/issues) for more information.

In the United States, curbside collection systems coupled with deposit returns have proven effective in reducing roadside litter by up to 64%. Similarly, buy-back centers, which purchase recyclable materials from the public, offer both economic incentives and contribute to resource recovery. While not perfect, these centers create jobs within the local community and support sustainable manufacturing practices by reducing the waste sent to landfills.

**Making Money From Waste**

Apart from the preservation of the environment, turning waste into wealth presents a significant economic opportunity. At the household level, individuals can generate income by participating in recycling programs, bringing in extra revenue that can support their families. Incentivizing recycling can reduce the burden on city budgets for waste management and landfill maintenance. In addition, the sale of collected recyclables can generate revenue, which can be reinvested into improving waste management infrastructure or supporting community programs. Buy-back centers, for example, not only help in resource recovery but also create local jobs and stimulate economic activity within the community; see [this article for more information on how this can play out](http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article). 

The revenue generated from recycled materials can be substantial, especially when scaling up operations to include a wide range of recyclable products. This dual benefit of cost reduction and income generation highlights the potential of paid waste return systems to drive economic growth while addressing pressing environmental issues.

While the paid waste return system has clear benefits, it is not without its pitfalls. In less developed countries, where informal waste sectors play a significant role, the implementation of such systems can come with some challenges.

There is a risk that paid waste returns could unintentionally widen the gap between those who can participate in the system and those who cannot. In low-income areas where informal waste pickers already play a crucial role, the introduction of formalized systems must ensure that these workers are not pushed out but rather integrated into the formal waste management economy; see [this article about things policymakers can do to empower informal waste workers](https://www.undp.org/blog/unsung-heroes-four-things-policymakers-can-do-empower-informal-waste-workers).

Developing countries may face challenges in maintaining and operating the necessary infrastructure. A [report by the United Nations](about:blank) revealed that frequent breakdowns of collection vehicles, slow repair times, and inadequate funding can undermine the effectiveness of paid waste return systems. Lessons from developed economies highlight the need for robust support mechanisms and infrastructure to sustain these programs.

Buy-back centers and deposit return systems must also be carefully designed to avoid inconveniencing local residents and businesses. For instance, centers should be strategically located near industries and commercial hubs to ensure a steady supply of recyclable materials and minimize disruption.

Paid waste return systems offer a valuable tool in the quest to address climate issues and poverty in less developed countries. By incentivizing recycling and reducing waste, these systems can drive environmental and economic benefits. A balanced approach, incorporating lessons from both developed and developing economies, will be essential in turning waste into wealth while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and poverty.

For additional information and actions, see “[Recycle plastic properly](https://www.earthhero.org/act/422-recycle-plastic-properly)” and [Recycle in all the right places](https://www.earthhero.org/act/429-recycle-in-all-the-right-places)**.**


From Waste to Wealth: Paid Waste Returns Could Be a Double Win for Developing Countries

In the heart of Africa lies the conflict-ridden Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), abundant with valuable minerals such as cobalt, tantalum, tungsten, tin, and other essential elements vital for modern technology. Yet, this wealth is intertwined with a darker narrative of exploitation, violence, and human suffering. This issue stems from the very devices that we hold in our hands. The production of these products has come at a hidden cost, borne by the blood-soaked soil of the people of Congo.

For decades, [Congo's mineral wealth has been a double-edged sword, financing warfare and causing instability](https://trtafrika.com/africa/the-forgotten-war-in-dr-congo-and-the-scramble-for-minerals-15725389). Smuggled through porous borders, these minerals line the pockets of warlords and corrupt traders, perpetuating a cycle of violence and exploitation. A good example is cobalt, a vital component of lithium-ion batteries that is used in powering our smartphones and electric vehicles, but has however been identified as a major catalyst of this crisis. Despite international scrutiny and calls for accountability, the plunder of Congo's resources continues unabated, fueled by the insatiable demand for minerals in global markets.

In the thick jungles of eastern Congo, where over a hundred armed rebel groups are located, the extraction of these minerals often takes a heavy toll on human lives. [Chinese companies especially have been a major culprit in Congo's mining sector exploitation](https://nation.africa/africa/news/drc-moves-to-terminate-skewed-china-contracts-4194780), as their economic expedition continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the extraction and refining of cobalt. As this quest continues, children as young as six often work in perilous conditions, their labor fueling the insatiable demand for cobalt. Despite assurances of ethical practices, [Apple's supply chain remains shrouded](https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/congo-lawyers-say-received-new-evidence-apples-minerals-supply-chain-2024-05-22/), leaving room for the infiltration of minerals sourced from regions ravaged by violence. The term “blood minerals” refers to mineral resources that are sourced through the suffering of a populace caught in the crossfire of armed conflict and rampant exploitation.

Reports of mass killings, forced labor, and child exploitation paints a harrowing picture of the human cost behind our sleek gadgets. [An Amnesty International report](https://www.amnesty.org/en/documents/afr62/3183/2016/en/) notes that around 40,000 young boys and girls worked in copper and cobalt mines in southern DRC, a number likely to have increased with the expansion of electric car production. 

According to a research report from the US Department of Labor, over 40,000 children, some as young as six years old, are employed in cobalt mines. Working in tight underground spaces without proper safety measures, these child laborers face grave risks of injury or death, including falls into open mine shafts or being trapped in collapses. Women also engage in artisanal cobalt mining because it offers the highest earnings in the region, providing between $2.15 and $8.60 per day with minimal investment, training, or skills required, as reported by The Northern Miner Group. Even though the laws of the DRC prohibit children under 18 from working in mining, lack of enforcement and widespread poverty continue to fuel this exploitation. 

Beyond the sad tale of human lives lost, mining in Congo also has profound environmental repercussions. The extraction process yields hazardous byproducts that can poison ecosystems as mines rich in sulfur contribute to the formation of sulfuric acid when exposed to the environment; they contaminate the air, rivers, streams, and marine life.

**A Transformational Shift is Needed**

A sustainable approach demands a transformative shift. Key to this is embracing the recycling of lithium-ion batteries, which are generally much less polluting than oil. This evolution, however, will necessitate effective medium- and long-term strategies to address both environmental concerns and the soaring demand for batteries as electric vehicles gain more traction. For example, the long-term storage of batteries poses a significant threat when not properly managed, as lithium-ion batteries can release toxic substances into the environment, including heavy metals that seep into soil and groundwater.

Also, integrating plant-based strategies into mining rehabilitation efforts in Congo could significantly mitigate environmental impacts and promote sustainable land-use practices. Different plant species possess unique abilities to absorb and mitigate contaminants. For instance, sunflowers are known for absorbing radiation, as demonstrated at the Chernobyl nuclear disaster site in northern Ukraine (this site is well-known for the catastrophic nuclear accident that occurred on April 26, 1986). Mustard greens also excel at absorbing lead, making them valuable in safeguarding children from lead poisoning. Willow trees are adept at storing heavy metals in their roots, while poplars can efficiently absorb hydrocarbons from petrochemical pollution due to their water-absorbing properties. Alpine pennycress has also shown promise in absorbing various heavy metals, particularly when soil pH is adjusted to be more acidic. These plants not only clean up pollutants but also help prevent their spread via wind, rain, or groundwater, thereby preventing contamination within mining sites and safeguarding surrounding ecosystems.

It is also important for us to move beyond mere substitution of mineral resources towards adopting eco-friendly solutions. Therefore, encouraging infrastructure changes, such as promoting bicycling and walking should be embraced by all to alleviate the pressure on mineral resources from an over-reliance on cars. 

Multinational corporations like Apple also have a moral obligation to uphold the highest standards of corporate responsibility; profits should not come at the expense of human rights, despite the insatiable hunger for greater profits as demanded by the board of directors of any for-profit corporation. Companies must prioritize the well-being of workers and communities impacted by their operations. This means investing in sustainable development initiatives, supporting local economies, and empowering marginalized groups to shape their own futures. Naturally, action over superficial lip service is especially important.

Our gadgets and vehicles may connect us across continents, but it is our shared humanity that binds us together in the fight for a better world. If we are to build a more just and equitable future, we must confront this reality head-on and demand accountability from those who profit from exploitation. It is time for us all to heed the call for justice and stand in solidarity with the people of Congo as we promote the quest for ensuring environmental accountability and sustainability.


Exploitation in our Phones: How the World Failed Congo

### Vegan Ink and Eco-Friendly Tattoo Care

Conscious, [sustainable choices](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/30-easy-ways-to-kickoff-a-sustainable-lifestyle) can extend into every aspect of overall consumption, including the art that some place on their skin. So if you are thinking about getting a tattoo, you can join the growing number of people who turn to vegan tattoo inks and eco-friendly aftercare methods. 

This introductory guide walks you through the world of vegan tattoo inks —explaining what they are, their benefits, and how to take care of your art in a way that's kind to our Earth. 

### Vegan Tattoos vs. Common Tattoos  
Vegan tattoo ink provides an alternative that's gaining popularity not only for its cruelty-free nature, but also for its lack of animal-derived ingredients. These inks are formulated with natural and plant-based components, offering a skin-friendly option that aligns with environmental values. Additionally, vegan inks are crafted to have vibrant, long-lasting colors, ensuring that your tattoo looks great without compromising your values.

Traditional tattoo inks have been used for many years and are known for their durability and the wide range of colors they offer. These inks often contain ingredients such as bone char, glycerin from animal fats, and gelatin from hooves. 

On the other hand, vegan tattoo inks use [plant-based glycerin](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegetable-glycerin), vegetable carbon, and other natural materials, offering a cruelty-free option. Vegan inks are often crafted to be less irritating to the skin and are free from animal-derived ingredients. They are also formulated with fewer contaminants, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

When it comes to costs, vegan tattoo inks can be more expensive than traditional inks. This is due to the higher quality and ethical sourcing of ingredients used. However, many people find the additional cost worthwhile for the benefits of sustainability and cruelty-free practices.

### Benefits of Plant-Based Inks in Tattoos
Choosing plant-based inks for tattoos isn't only a great choice for those who follow a vegan lifestyle; it also offers environmental benefits. These inks reduce reliance on eco-friendly products, thus diminishing the demand that leads to animal farming practices, which are known for their significant environmental footprint. By opting for vegan tattoo inks, we're helping decrease the overall impact of our lifestyle on our planet.

Vegan inks, recognized for their purity and straightforward ingredient lists, tend to be gentler on the skin. For those of us with sensitive skin or allergies, this can make a big difference in our tattooing experience. These inks help us look after both our health and our planet’s well-being, wrapping care and consideration into every drop used on our skin. 

These ingredients, chosen based on their minimal impact on the Earth and health, also offer vibrant, lasting colors that do not compromise the artistic quality of our tattoos. This makes it possible to embrace environmental consciousness without sacrificing the beauty and expression that tattoos add to our lives.

### Eco-Friendly Tattoo Aftercare
After investing in a tattoo with vegan ink, it makes sense that we would want to continue our sustainability journey through the aftercare process. Thankfully, there are plenty of eco-friendly aftercare products that ensure our tattoos heal beautifully without harming our planet. 

There are a variety of organic and natural aftercare products like coconut oil, shea butter, and [jojoba oil](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8197201/), which are gentle on the skin and free from synthetic additives. These natural moisturizers not only keep the tattooed area hydrated but also promote healing without the use of chemicals that can be harsh on our skin and the environment.

In addition to choosing sustainable products, you can adopt eco-friendly practices to care for your tattoo. For instance, using reusable cloths to gently pat the tattoo dry can minimize wasteful single-use resources. 

You can wash the tattoo with natural, unscented soap to avoid irritation and reduce the chemical load on local water systems. By integrating these simple yet effective practices, we ensure that our aftercare routine aligns with our eco-conscious values, supporting both your skin health and environmental sustainability.

### Where To Get A Vegan Tattoo
If you're ready to take the leap into the world of vegan tattoos, there are numerous reputable studios specializing in plant-based inks. In the United States, vegan tattoo services can be found in various states, especially in cities known for their progressive attitudes towards eco-friendly practices.

Here are 4 cities that are renowned for their commitment to sustainability:

- **Portland** is known for its eco-conscious culture, and its tattoo studios are no exception. Many Portland tattoo shops offer vegan inks and follow green practices, making it an ideal destination for those looking to get inked in an environmentally responsible manner.

- **Las Vegas**, with its vibrant tattoo culture, is home to numerous  [Las Vegas tattoo shops](https://skindesigntattoos.com/locations/las-vegas/) that are embracing sustainable practices. These shops offer a variety of vegan inks and eco-conscious aftercare products, making it easier for tattoo enthusiasts to make ethical choices without compromising on quality.

- **Los Angeles** is another hotspot for vegan tattoos, with its abundance of studios dedicated to cruelty-free and environmentally friendly tattooing. The city's artistic community has fully embraced the vegan movement, ensuring a wide selection of talented artists who prioritize sustainability.

- **Washington, D.C**., offers a growing number of tattoo studios that focus on vegan and eco-friendly options. The city's commitment to sustainability is reflected in its tattoo scene, where artists are increasingly using plant-based inks and sustainable practices to create beautiful, ethical tattoos.

Beyond the United States, vegan tattoo studios can be found in various other countries around the world: United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Canada. These countries are known for their commitment to sustainability and cruelty-free tattooing, making them ideal destinations for those seeking ethical and environmentally conscious tattoos.

Vegan tattoo inks and eco-friendly aftercare practices can be part of an overall dedication to living in harmony with the environment while expressing your identity. It’s one more step towards minimizing your ecological footprint and supporting animal welfare. 


Vegan Ink and Eco-Friendly Tattoo Care

The holiday season offers a valuable opportunity for companies who support sustainability to reward employees in the greenest way possible. Now’s the time to show how much your business values sustainable living by gifting employees with eco-friendly seasonal treats, green parties and unique gift experiences.

From sustainable perks to corporate donations to worthy causes, there are plenty of incredible and inspiring gift ideas to choose from, such as sharing branded gifts wrapped with a heart-warming eco-friendly message or ordering homemade goodies for your global team. Below are some great ways to reward employees (and others) with meaningful presents that align with your corporate values. 

## Rethink Traditional Gift-Giving
Seasonal vacations are a great time to treat employees while being mindful of creating waste. According to research, for example, the level of unwanted goods increases by [25%](https://brightly.eco/blog/holiday-waste-generation-and-prevention) during the festive period. While it is all too easy to give employees the usual boxes of chocolates or unnecessary branded items, although they are gratefully accepted, they might end up as unwanted and consigned to the trash can.

Therefore, rather than defaulting to this norm, consider picking out [sustainable gifts](https://snacknation.com/blog/eco-friendly-gifts/) for your employees that can tick off being:

- Low-impact
- Sustainably-sourced and produced
- Reusable
- Biodegradable
- High quality 

## Choose Presents That Promote Climate Activism
If you want to reward your employees with a sustainable gift, take some time to consider unique presents and gift experiences that support sustainability initiatives, promote change, and pledge an alliance with climate activism. This can be anything from[ launching an electric car scheme](https://www.hamlyns.com/blog/business-electric-vehicle-ev-schemes/) for your team to giving employees a global membership to a [worldwide charity](https://impactful.ninja/best-charities-for-climate-change/#:~:text=The%20best%20charities%20for%20climate%20change%20in%20terms%20of%20overall,farmers%20in%20sustainable%20agriculture%20methods.) that supports conservation and biodiversity. You might also consider gifts like canvas totes with inspiring calls to action on climate change, or branded clothes with eco-friendly messages manufactured out of recycled materials. 

Businesses can invite their employees to make donations to nonprofit organizations in an employer’s name or sign up to an annual membership for a group that aligns with sustainability values, for an even more thoughtful present. With a little creativity, you can find gift options that are eco-friendly, unique to your employees, and meaningful.

## Host Eco-Friendly Corporate Parties
Try throwing highly-anticipated parties to celebrate holidays throughout the year! These are great opportunities to incorporate sustainability into your corporate celebrations. It is no surprise that arranging and [hosting corporate events has a huge impact ](https://www.theeventplannerexpo.com/sustainability-in-corporate-events-strategies-for-hosting-eco-friendly-gatherings/)on our global footprint. So, if you are going to plan parties at any time of year, try to do so with sustainability at the core of your event planning.

From sending out invites (using e-vites to reduce paper waste) to [sustainable party decorations](https://www.greenvelope.com/blog/eco-friendly-party-decorations), there are numerous ways to ensure your celebrations are eco-friendly. Host your [party at a sustainable venue](https://www.venuescanner.com/blog/a-guide-to-sustainable-holiday-celebrations-for-venue-owners) and promote it to creatively showcase your green initiatives and credentials. Wherever you are in the world, look for venues that integrate energy-efficient lighting, recycling programs, and composting of organic waste. Similarly, opt for spaces with energy-efficient furnishings and fittings as much as you can.

You might also want to make sure your [caterers use sustainable practices](https://hirespace.com/blog/top-sustainable-caterers-for-greener-events). Research whether they have respectable policies when it comes to minimizing food waste, reusing plastics, and recycling glass bottles or containers. Some catering firms will let you know if they offer plant-based and seasonal organic appetizers, meals, and desserts. You should, where possible, pledge support for caterers who source ethically-sourced ingredients to reduce transport emissions. Likewise, look for global initiatives that collect leftovers or [high-profile brands raising awareness ](https://www.prweek.com/article/1848178/brands-tackle-food-insecurity-cozy-getaways-thanksgiving-campaigns)about people who lack access to food or are left out of traditional festivities.

## Reward Employees With Eco-Friendly Gifts
The gift choices companies make for employees carry meaning and demonstrate values. Rather than giving generic gifts that are destined for the trash, select presents that reflect sustainability and social responsibility. A sustainable gift that is valuable to an employee might be [pledging regular donations to meaningful causes](https://www.earthhero.org/en_GB/donate) or to charities supporting climate activism. 

Alternatively, purchase gifts that are homemade, such as baked goods, knitted items and personally-crafted pieces. Fair trade and organic consumables like coffee, tea, chocolate and skincare can make thoughtful gifts while also supporting ethical sourcing and agriculture. In addition, there are many sustainable corporate gift experiences, such as spa days or outdoor group pursuits like beach cleaning and volunteer days that make fantastic alternatives. Gift cards and vouchers to buy items from green businesses, eco-fashion brands and sustainable tech stores will also appeal to your eco-friendly employees. 

Meanwhile, you can reward staff by block-booking tickets to environmentally-conscious classes, or sign employees up for green adventures during the year, such as foraging workshops, hiking excursions or farm-to-table cooking classes. Employees increasingly care about environmental and social issues, so gifts that embody sustainability send a powerful message.

## Promote Your Company’s Sustainability Values
The festive season is the perfect opportunity to give employees presents to thank them while simultaneously highlighting your organization's sustainability values, both internally and externally. Give employees presents that are packaged and [gift-wrapped sustainably](https://www.earthhero.org/en_GB/act/637-use-recyclablecomma-reusable-gift-wrap) in addition to carrying meaningful messages and sustainable living tips. Meanwhile, your company can order reusable water bottles with facts about plastic waste or tote bags printed with reminders to reduce and reuse. Organize a vacation fundraising initiative for an eco-focused charity or nonprofit and rally employees around the cause of giving back. 

Any gifts or seasonal events can be arranged to encourage your staff into living and working more sustainably, as well as highlighting your current and ongoing business commitment to sustainability. In turn, use any seasonal vacations as an opportunity to show appreciation to your employees in ways that align with your company’s actions on climate change. 

By rethinking traditional gift-giving and planning seasonal events that minimize waste, businesses can celebrate important dates in the calendar while reducing their environmental impact. Sustainable gifting and greener parties enable companies to mark special occasions and inspire eco-conscious practices with employees who share a commitment to living more sustainably. With some thoughtful planning, businesses can celebrate vacations while highlighting their sustainability values and rewarding dedicated employees.


How to Reward Employees with Sustainable Gifts

With environmental concerns mounting year-on-year, people are looking for ways to adopt more eco-friendly lifestyles both at home and at work. For business owners and remote workers, there are many simple steps you can take to reduce your environmental impact. 

While you might already have a [green job](https://www.earthhero.org/en_GB/articles/what-are-green-jobs-and-why-are-they-importantquest), making small sustainable changes to how you work from home can make a big difference. Here are some tips to make your remote office greener:

## Adopt Green Habits In Your Home Office
Working remotely has many benefits, including flexibility and a better work-life balance. 
Recent reports state that [remote working is better for the environment](https://hbr.org/2022/03/is-remote-work-actually-better-for-the-environment). However, it can lead to habits that aren't environmentally friendly, such as giving little thought to the amount of paper you use and waste. Without a manager to check your recycling levels or pressure from [official business waste-monitoring audits](https://www.dumpsters.com/blog/how-to-conduct-a-waste-audit), it's easy to overprint documents and waste paper. 

## Recycle and Reduce Paper to Avoid Waste
If you work from home, there are multiple good recycling habits you can adopt to reuse your paper products more efficiently. First of all, check if your neighborhood or building has recycling pickups or drop-offs available. Recycle all eligible paper products including newspapers, magazines, cardboard and office paper.

Consider introducing the following healthy habits into your work-from-home routine:

- Use scrap paper for taking notes or as scratch paper.
- Designate a bin on your desk for clean one-sided paper.
- Repurpose old business card holders, folders, binders, and file boxes instead of buying new ones.
- Stock up on recycled notebooks, sticky notes, and notepads instead of regular paper products.
- Reuse envelopes and folders for internal mail rather than throwing them away after one use. Set up clearly labeled recycling bins in the office or home workspace for paper, glass, plastic, and aluminum. Ensure these are emptied regularly.
- Use recycled paper products and look for office supplies made from sustainable materials.
- Reuse paper printed on one side for drafts or internal memos.
- Purchase recycled printer ink cartridges and recycle old ones responsibly.

## Print and Shred Documents More Sustainably
You can also strive to print responsibly by shredding and recycling any of your sensitive documents. When it comes to printing, larger businesses are encouraging customers and remote workers to use [conscientious printers](https://www.treetopdesignandprint.com/services/environmental/). This means reviewing your printing processes to use recycled and sustainable materials whenever possible, and constantly evaluating practices to minimize waste and energy usage. 

Before printing anything, therefore, ask yourself if you really need a physical copy. You can save documents digitally and reference them on your computer as well as set your printer settings to default to double-sided printing. 

The following tips are useful:

- Limit printing long documents. Print only the pages you need or print on both sides. Consider using digital highlighters and notes rather than writing on printouts.
- Don't print single use documents you'll quickly throw away, like boarding passes and event tickets. Use digital versions on your phone instead.
- Change document settings to smaller fonts and margins to fit more text on each page.
- Unsubscribe from junk mail lists and catalogs to reduce the amount of paper sent to your home.
- Think before you print. Only print what you really need and set printers to default to double-sided printing.
- Go paperless with billing, invoicing, payments and filing where possible. Store documents digitally on computers and in the cloud.
- Request "no paper" invoices and statements and opt for digital versions instead.
- Cancel unwanted subscriptions and junk mail to reduce paper overflow.

## Rethink Your Post and Packaging
If you are packing items when working remotely or posting a lot from home, there are good habits to take up to ensure you’re being more eco-friendly. Going green with your paperwork can save money and benefit the environment. 

These key points on sustainable packaging can help to minimize paper waste and unnecessary printing as you work remotely.:

- Request no unnecessary packaging from suppliers and vendors.
- Opt for minimal or recyclable packaging.
- Switch to reusable alternatives like canvas bags and glass food storage.
- Buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste from individual items.
- Send documents and parcels digitally instead of printed copies requiring envelopes.

When it comes to posting items, today’s global mail providers, such as UPS and FedEx Office, offer paper shredding and electronic recycling services. Some [have introduced sustainability programs](https://about.usps.com/what/corporate-social-responsibility/sustainability/committed/) that do a lot for the environment and help you to securely dispose of sensitive work documents from your remote office. You might also want to learn [how to recycle any old ink cartridges](https://www.inkcartridges.com/blog/howto/4-simple-ways-to-recycle-your-old-printer-cartridges/). Many firms who sell printer ink and toner cartridges will help you to recycle them via their manufacturing initiatives like HP's Planet Partners.

## Set a Positive Path Towards Change
Many global businesses are setting positive precedents to their remote employees by sharing advice on actioning sustainability solutions. When a [business communicates recycling tips well](https://methodrecycling.com/gb/journal/how-to-engage-employees-with-recycling-at-work), it can encourage you to work out an effective eco-friendly system for your home office. 

Businesses can go a step further by actively supporting you as a remote worker to adopt healthy recycling habits and home habits, and other sustainable practices. In turn, businesses and remote workers can greatly reduce their environmental footprint by recycling and reusing office items. Non-recyclable materials that you use in your home office can often be [repurposed, recovered, or disposed of](https://www.nytimes.com/wirecutter/guides/how-to-off-load-old-office-equipment/) in an eco-friendly manner. 

Today’s organizations are even implementing programs to [monitor the environmental status of remote teams](https://www.salesforce.com/blog/remote-work-impact-corporate-sustainability/) to measure the impact they have on the green results of the business as a whole.

## Conserve Energy In Your Home Office
In addition to recycling, you can go that extra step by making a conscious effort to conserve energy in your home office. You can switch off any electrical devices like printers, laptops, and lights when not in use, and unplug chargers and equipment when idle.

To further reduce consumption, try to use energy-efficient LED bulbs in your home office to lower your energy usage. Working remotely does allow greater control over your recycling and energy habits. With small, sustainable practices like turning off unused electronics, adjusting power settings, and upgrading lighting in personal workspaces, you are making small but effective solutions to [combat the negative impact of climate change](https://www.earthhero.org/en_GB/articles/climate-change-and-solutions).

Going green not only benefits the planet but can reduce costs by cutting waste and energy consumption. With some thoughtful changes, it's easy for your remote role or home-office setup to become part of building a greener future. Alongside all your recycling efforts, or steps to print, package and post items in a more eco-conscious way, simple steps can go a long way.


Going Green With Your Paperwork: Tips for the Remote Office

When you launch the [free Earth Hero app](https://www.earthhero.org/app/) (and we certainly hope that you do this regularly, or will very soon), you’ll be greeted by a rotating selection of salient and thought-provoking quotes from some of the world’s great thinkers. One of these quotes is from global climate leader Greta Thunberg, who said, “You're never too small to make a difference”.

Indeed, small is a very big deal. 

That concept is one of Earth Hero’s [guiding principles](https://www.earthhero.org/principles), namely that, “We support quick, simple, ‘easy’ personal actions, as they may help shift the culture within a household or change a local community, but they also count in motivating people towards further action.”

It’s also a main reason why many people choose to use the Earth Hero app. Alex Young of Nashville, USA, said he regularly launches the app to identify and implement “quick fixes" that help him decrease his carbon footprint. “I can, on a daily basis, while sitting on that couch over there, reduce the number of emails that I'm going to get, or reduce the number of promotional product mailers I get, or just understand what is my time-to-value with each of these things, which has been very good,” he told Earth Hero team member Sabrina Morellato during a recent app-user interview. 

And success in implementing smaller solutions can lead to gratifying, ongoing success, he noted. “Actions become easier as you do them several times. Like talking about climate. Hard at first, but it becomes easier as I learn how to implement and maintain an action.”

Mohamed Assem, of Canada, added that the app’s large selection of small, achievable actions allows users to participate in the effort to combat climate change, without feeling overwhelmed.  “The point of being an environmentalist is not to put too much pressure, but to use it in a positive way, not guilting myself,” he said.

And as a recent reviewer said on the Apple App Store: “[The Earth Hero app] teaches you that one person really can make a massive difference and not even with too much effort!”

When Mohammed and Alex and others all accomplish “quick fixes”, without feeling overwhelmed, it certainly adds up, and helps move the needle. As Vincent Van Gogh said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”

To help you get started with thinking small, we have compiled the following selection of “quick, simple, ‘easy’ personal actions.” You can use these to begin your journey, or to enhance the efforts that you are already making to decrease your carbon pollution. All of these actions, and more, are available on the Earth Hero app, where you can see how each small action you take contributes to the greater objective of addressing the climate emergency.

## **ADVOCACY & CHOICE**

**_1. Research Investing Jargon_**
Prioritize understanding investment jargon, whether you're an experienced investor or new to the field. Gain financial wisdom to support suitable companies and enhance your investments. Mastery of sustainable investment language empowers better financial decisions, aligning your investments with environmental values.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/280-research-investing-jargon>

**_2. Drawdown Climate Solutions 101_**
Dive into a free, enlightening video course on tackling the climate crisis! Hear from global leaders and expand your toolkit for positive change. Whether you're new or seasoned, explore solutions (and check out the trailer) at the [Drawdown Climate Solutions 101 site](https://drawdown.org/climate-solutions-101). 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/453-drawdown-climate-solutions-101>

**_3. Write YOUR Representatives_**
Our actions matter, but the battle for our future needs everyone! If leaders stay stuck in pollution, we're stuck too. Let's rally! Elected folks shape the rules. Join Earth Heroes, join forces, and ping your reps about our needs.

Learn more here: https://www.earthhero.org/act/180-write-your-representatives

**_4. Watch Top Climate Documentaries_**
Boost decision smarts with fun science docs! Get clued in on climate, talk the talk, and be a change champ. Dive into cool films for a hotter planet.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/308-watch-top-climate-documentaries>

**_5. Research and Vote Accordingly_**
Familiarize yourself with representatives from local to national levels. Look beyond media portrayals, researching their environmental stance, affiliations, and solutions support. This brief effort enlightens you, aids informed voting, and facilitates discussions with peers. Identifying shared interests forges collaborative change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/287-research-and-vote-accordingly>

**_6. Change Search Engine to Ecosia_**
Ecosia's not your typical search engine. They plant trees with every click! Hundreds of million so far, mainly in climate-vulnerable areas. Plus, they rock solar power for eco-friendly browsing. Small step, big win. Join the millions already using it and search with purpose.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/238-change-search-engine-to-ecosia>

**_7. Follow Sustainable Influencers_**
Explore sustainable influencers if you're into social media and visual learning. Sharing their content sparks conversations and introduces sustainability to others. Even subscribing boosts their reach, reaching new audiences unfamiliar with the concept.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/510-follow-sustainable-influencers>

## **FAMILY & COMMUNITY**

**_8. Talk About Climate_**
Speak up! Combat the climate crisis by discussing it openly. Sharing personal emissions and actions highlights the issue's personal relevance, inspiring action. Everyday conversations reach a wider audience, making a bigger impact than formal talks.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/168-talk-about-climate>

**_9. Join a Climate Action Group_**
Join a climate action group to amplify your voice collectively. Together, you'll learn, gain resources, allies, and confidence in your climate activism journey. Forge friendships with fellow passionate climate activists along the way.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/233-join-a-climate-action-group>

**_10. Thank Climate Change Trailblazers_**
Shift social norms by vocally supporting positive actions. Expressing gratitude not only fosters well-being but also impacts givers, receivers, and observers. Thank early green adopters in your community for driving positive change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/260-thank-climate-change-trailblazers>

**_11. Review Eco-Friendly Businesses_**
Online reviews shape decisions for products, restaurants, and experiences. Review eco-friendly places to aid discovery and promote sustainable businesses. Hold non-sustainable ones accountable. Your voice drives positive change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/212-review-eco-friendly-businesses>

**_12. Like, Comment, Share_**
Liking, commenting, or sharing a post sends a powerful signal and triggers positive effects. Social media algorithms favor interactive posts, amplifying positive environmental messages. Each interaction promotes a culture of progress in society.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/214-likecomma-commentcomma-share>

**_13. Be a Better Gift Giver + Receiver_**
Balancing climate actions with loved ones' preferences is complex. Harness gifting as a chance to influence positively. Choose eco-friendly gifts that enhance their lives and consider handling unwanted gifts gracefully. Your choices inspire a broader ripple effect, impacting beyond your circle.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/265-be-a-better-gift-giver-plus-receiver>

**_14. Borrow Library Books_**
By borrowing instead of buying books, each copy is read by multiple people - reducing the number of copies that need to be produced. This saves trees, and reduces the associated transportation fuel usage. 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/684-borrow-library-books>

**_15. Watch Top Climate Documentaries_**
Boost decision-making with knowledge. Enjoy science documentaries to grasp the climate crisis, enhancing your advocacy for impactful solutions and a brighter future.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/308-watch-top-climate-documentaries>

## **FOOD**

**_16. Eat More Nuts!_**
Nuts are a top choice in terms of nutrition and environmental impact. Efficient production, low carbon emissions, and carbon storage in nut trees make them planet-friendly. Their natural state provides sustained energy and potential health benefits, promoting weight loss and well-being.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/283-eat-more-nuts>!

**_17. Drink Plant Milk_**
Plant-based milk options, like oat, almond, and coconut milk, gain popularity for various reasons: environmental concern, cow treatment, and taste preference. With over a third of some populations already consuming non-dairy milk weekly, the trend is growing. Cow milk's vast production, methane emissions, and land use contribute to climate issues and deforestation. Explore plant-based alternatives for a more sustainable and possibly tastier choice.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/284-drink-plant-milk>

**_18. Reduce Food Waste_**
Cut food waste to save resources and money. Discarded food wastes water, land, and energy from production and transportation. Global per-person food waste is substantial, equating to significant financial loss. Reducing waste could have a massive positive impact on both the environment and economy. Join the movement!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/46-reduce-food-waste>

**_19. Save Singles at the Supermarket_**
Opt for single bananas and loose produce to save money, cut food waste, and reduce plastic use. The myth of faster banana ripening in bunches means you can choose exact amounts. Combat household food waste, which drains money and resources, while supporting eco-friendly shopping practices.
Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/430-save-singles-at-the-supermarket>

## **HOME & OFFICE**

**_20. Change Light Bulbs to LEDs_**
Boost energy efficiency by switching to LEDs as bulbs burn out. This collective effort slashes energy use and pollution. Longer-lasting LEDs save time, money, and energy costs compared to incandescents, lasting 25,000+ hours versus 1,000.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/80-change-light-bulbs-to-leds>

**_21. Wash Clothes on Cold Cycle_**
Modern detergents with enzymes are more effective in cold water, being gentler on clothes, preventing fading and shrinking. Cold water washing saves money too, as 90% of energy used in laundry is from water heating, while just 10% powers the washer motor.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/92-wash-clothes-on-cold-cycle>

**_22. Turn Down Your Water Heater_**
Lowering your water heater's temperature not only saves money but also prevents scalding accidents. Many heaters are set hotter than needed; adjust the temperature to conserve energy and experience the benefits.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/108-turn-down-your-water-heater>

**_23. Unsubscribe from Email Lists_**
Unwanted spam emails harm the environment by consuming energy, often from non-clean sources. Unsubscribing curbs energy waste from both sender and receiver, saving time and resisting unnecessary purchases. Unsubscribe for a minor personal benefit and a positive environmental impact.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/227-unsubscribe-from-email-lists>

**_24. Use Cloth Napkins and Towels_**
Join the trend: swap paper for cloth napkins and towels, conserving trees and funds. Elevate your home, cut waste, and ditch disposable products for a more convenient, eco-friendly choice.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/135-use-cloth-napkins-and-towels>

**_25. Use Bar Soap, Shampoo, and More_**
Traditional liquid personal care products like hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner come with hidden environmental costs due to plastic packaging and shipping water. Bar options, with lower carbon footprints, offer a greener alternative. Compact, waste-reducing, and efficient, they help cut down on plastic waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/482-use-bar-soapcomma-shampoocomma-and-more>

**_26. Gift Plants and Cuttings to Others_**
Share plants and cuttings as gifts for a generous act with added benefits. Plants enhance aesthetics, air quality, and mental well-being, fostering care for nature. Gifted plants promote mindfulness and positive mental health, while also potentially aiding biodiversity and community connections.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/341-gift-plants-and-cuttings-to-others>

**_27. Manage Your Fridge and Freezer_**
Refrigerators and freezers are major energy consumers at home, especially if aged. Enhance efficiency by setting optimal temperatures, sealing doors, cleaning coils, and maintaining airflow. Properly filling them to about three-quarters capacity boosts cooling and reduces energy usage.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/215-manage-your-fridge-and-freezer>

## **TRAVEL & TRANSPORT**

**_28. Drive More Efficiently_**
Cars, motorcycles, buses, and taxis contribute significantly to global emissions. Regardless of your vehicle's efficiency, driving smarter saves money and cuts pollution. If you are still driving a vehicle that uses gas/petrol/diesal, each drop of saved fuel lessens climate impact, and improved driving habits could enhance fuel efficiency by nearly 40%.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/20-drive-more-efficiently>

**_29. Stop Vehicle Idling_**
Switch off your gas vehicle when idle, even at lights or stops if you are still driving a vehicle that uses gas/petrol/diesal. Improve local air quality, protect health, and combat pollution. Engine idling links to asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer due to emissions. Implementing this easy habit makes a difference.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/28-stop-vehicle-idling>

**_30. Avoid Hotel Toiletries_**
Carry your own toiletries for convenience and reduced plastic consumption. Admire but avoid single-use mini products. Opt for bar soaps and mention bulk dispensers to hotel staff. This small change lessens plastic demand and contributes to fighting climate change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/515-avoid-hotel-toiletries>

**BUT THAT’S NOT ALL!** Didn’t find an action that fits your lifestyle? There are plenty more ideas for easy yet impactful actions on the[ Earth Hero website](https://www.earthhero.org/act), and in our[ amazing free app](https://www.earthhero.org/app). Please visit, download, and start doing anything you can to help save the planet.


30 Easy Ways to Kickoff a Sustainable Lifestyle

When it comes to home-based solutions for helping the planet, you might feel like homeowners have all the top options: rooftop solar, solar water heaters, heat pumps. But renters can also join in the fun! If you rent your apartment, house, or other form of shelter, there is a long list of easy, meaningful, and immediate actions you can take - without worrying about scuffing the walls, scratching the floors, or otherwise jeopardizing your security deposit.

The following is a categorized rundown of no-cost or low-cost steps that renters can take to help stem the climate emergency. Each contains a link to learn more on the Earth Hero website. There are actions you can take from the mailbox to the kitchen to the tub. So let’s jump in!

## **MAIL ACTIONS**
**_Stop Receiving Junk Mail_**
Billions of flyers and junk mail are sent each year to convince you to buy things you don't need. This means millions of trees are cut down, fossil fuels are burned all along the way, and the junk mail ends up in landfills. Help break the cycle and simplify your life by saying no to junk mail! 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/255-stop-receiving-junk-mail>

**_Switch To E-Billing_**
Can you believe it? Every year, hundreds of billions of bills and updates are sent worldwide, using up loads of trees and energy. But take heart: e-billing is on the rise! Embrace the convenience, save time, and help the environment by reducing paper waste and pollution. Jump on the trend and simplify your life!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/254-switch-to-e-billing>

 
## **WATER MANAGEMENT**
**_Use Eco-Friendly Laundry Detergent_**
Let's tackle the global plastic pollution issue together! One way is by ditching traditional liquid laundry detergent in plastic containers. Try eco-strips, pods, or powders instead. Eco-strips are water-saving and lightweight, reducing shipping emissions. Eco-pods are also concentrated and use compostable packaging. Choose a plastic-free option and lighten your load.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/452-use-eco-friendly-laundry-detergent>

**_Wash Clothes On Cold Cycle_**
Forget what you've heard about hot water washing, because times have changed. Modern detergents with powerful enzymes work wonders in cold water. It's gentle on clothes, preventing fading, shrinking, and color bleeding. And the bonus? You save money by skipping the water heating costs, as it accounts for 90% of your washing machine's energy usage. Only 10% goes to the washer motor!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/92-wash-clothes-on-cold-cycle>

**_Shower Instead Of Bathe_**
A five-minute shower uses only a third of the water compared to a bath. And when we use hot water, we're not just using water, but also energy for heating. By reducing hot water usage, you're tackling multiple resources at once—saving energy, cutting emissions, and conserving precious water resources. It's a small step that makes a big difference, especially in areas with limited water supplies. Plus, you'll save some money along the way!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/249-shower-instead-of-bathe>

**_Use a Shower Timer_**
By cutting a couple of minutes off your shower, you can conserve 40 liters or 10 gallons of water. Multiply that over a year and it's a significant impact! A timer helps you keep track and enjoy the benefits of shorter showers—less water usage, lower bills, and energy savings. It's an easy way to make a positive difference, especially if you're not yet using clean, renewable energy.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/316-use-a-shower-timer>

**_Turn Off Shower While Washing_**
Save water and energy by turning off the shower when you're not using it. Reducing hot water usage cuts carbon emissions and preserves precious water resources. Try turning off the shower while you shampoo and wash—it may be a challenge at first, but you might realize you don't need it running as much as you thought. Don't worry if it doesn't work for you, though. The most important thing is to enjoy your shower…

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/378-turn-off-shower-while-washing>

**_Brush Teeth with the Water Off_**
Toothpaste, water, toothpaste, water... or just toothpaste? Bottom line: there's really no need to keep the water running while you brush. If you brush twice a day for 2 minutes, you can save up to a whole bucket of water in a single day. That adds up over a lifetime! It's a simple switch that conserves precious resources and keeps some extra cash in your pocket.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/11-brush-teeth-with-the-water-off>

**_Boil Only the Water You Need_**
When making hot beverages like coffee or tea, boil only the water you need. It saves time, energy, and water, not to mention money! Boiling excess water unnecessarily drives up energy bills for households. So, let's be smart and efficient with our hot drinks. Bottoms up!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/93-boil-only-the-water-you-need>


## **KITCHEN & FOOD MANAGEMENT**
**_Reduce Food Waste_**
Each year, we waste an incredible amount of food (about 59kg per year per capita in the U.S., according to a 2019 study published on ourworldindata.org). This results in wasted water, land, and energy. By cutting down food waste, we can make a huge impact equivalent to removing half a billion cars from the road.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/46-reduce-food-waste>

**_Save By Not Pre-Heating the Oven_**
Preheating your oven is a waste when the oven is already generating heat. Instead, put your food in right away and turn on the heat. You'll save at least 10% of the cooking time, if not more. Give it a try and cook smarter!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/750-save-by-not-pre-heating-the-oven>

**_Report Methane (Natural Gas) Smells_**
Smell methane? Call your local gas utility to report it and prevent explosions while saving the planet. Leaks from industries contribute to global warming. Notify authorities about any leaks, no matter how small, to safeguard our environment. Remember, the odor is an additive for leak detection.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/158-report-methane-(natural-gas)-smells>

**_Use Cloth Napkins and Towels_**
Join the cloth revolution. Swap out paper napkins and towels for reusable ones. It's eco-friendly, saves trees, and adds a touch of class to your home. Say goodbye to flimsy disposables and hello to money saved and no more lugging around throwaway options from the store.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/135-use-cloth-napkins-and-towels>

**_Recycle Everything You Can_**
Let's aim for a world without garbage or landfills. Embrace a circular approach—reuse, compost, and recycle. Start small by researching recycling options, taking notes, and getting organized. Deliver your recyclables to the center. With practice, it becomes easier. Don't wait for perfection; start small so we can make a positive change together.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/122-recycle-everything-you-can>


## **ELECTRICAL MANAGEMENT**
**_Change Light Bulbs To LEDs_**
Brighten up your energy efficiency by switching to long-lasting LEDs. We collectively save energy and reduce pollution. LEDs shine for over 25,000 hours, saving you time and money with lower energy costs. Illuminate your world with LED brilliance and make a sustainable choice!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/80-change-light-bulbs-to-leds>

**_Use A Natural Light Workspace_**
Position your workspace in a naturally lit area to harness the benefits humans have enjoyed under the sun for ages. Sunlight boosts vitamin D production, enhancing bone health and mood, and regulating sleep cycles. Additionally, switching off electric lights reduces energy consumption and saves on bills. Let natural light brighten your world!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/312-use-a-natural-light-workspace>

**_Turn Lights Off When Not In Use_**
Don't forget to flick the switch! Turn off lights when you leave a room or when you don't need them. It saves electricity, cuts pollution and lowers expenses. Bonus perks: Bulbs last longer, reducing replacements. Plus, it helps keep your home cooler on hot days. 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/83-turn-lights-off-when-not-in-use>

**_Use Led Lights for the Holidays_**
LED lights are perfect for getting into the festive spirit! They not only save you money and energy, but they also last longer. Compared to incandescent and CFLs, LEDs contribute less to global warming, ecosystem damage, ecotoxicity, and landfill waste. From manufacturing to disposal, they're the best cost-effective and environmentally friendly option. Plus, there's a wide range of options to choose from. 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/643-use-led-lights-for-the-holidays>

**_Unplug Vampire Electronics_**
Don't let vampire electronics drain your wallet! Up to 20% of your electricity expenses go to these sneaky devices that consume power even when turned off. Computers, TVs, modems, routers, and more are the culprits. Unplug or use power strips to save energy and money!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/94-unplug-vampire-electronics>

**_Use Rechargeable Batteries_**
Switching to rechargeable batteries is an easy way to make a positive impact. Most small devices, which account for the majority of alkaline battery sales, can use rechargeable batteries. Rechargeables can be charged up to 500 times and are environmentally friendly, avoiding the release of toxic metals into the air and water. While they may cost more initially, they save money in the long run and reduce waste.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/77-use-rechargeable-batteries>

## **INSPIRE YOUR LANDLORD**
As a valued tenant and concerned global citizen, you may be able to inspire your landlord to take actions related to the entire building or home. Some are low-cost or no-cost, and some will require a bit of time and investment. But all will save money in the long term, while also helping to save the Earth:

**_Water Your Lawn Less_**
This summer's unprecedented heat is literally bringing the climate emergency home to homeowners around the world. Local water companies have been urging people to use less water, but certainly not everyone is getting the message. Send your landlord to the link below to discover actions they can take to do their part, and save some money.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/114-water-your-lawn-less>

**_Switch Electricity to Clean Energy_**
Pick a 100% clean supplier; they're budget-friendly and ditch fossil fuels. Your local utility may not want you to know this, but you can make a greener choice. Check if clean energy options are available in your area.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/379-switch-electricity-to-clean-energy>

**_Install Low-Flush Toilets_**
Be water-wise! Average flushing adds up to over 20,000 liters yearly per person. Opt for efficient toilets using 5 liters with no performance impact. Save a precious resource, help the environment, and prepare for future challenges.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/111-install-low-flush-toilets>

**_Turn Down Your Water Heater_**
Save money and avoid scalding! Lower your water heater's temperature – factory defaults are often hotter than needed. An easy adjustment to save energy and worry. Try it out and enjoy the benefits.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/108-turn-down-your-water-heater>

**_Get Rooftop Solar_**
Go solar for a cleaner, money-saving future! Buying panels pays for itself in under 10 years, with free energy afterward. Renting your rooftop to solar companies gives you free electricity, and they can sell the excess power. It's a win-win!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/79-get-rooftop-solar>

## **THINK OUTSIDE THE HOME**
Now that you're on a roll inside your abode, you can also extend your actions to the world beyond. Here are a few more ideas for low-cost and no-cost actions you implement almost anywhere:

**_Join a Climate Action Group_**
Be a climate hero everywhere! Join a group and amplify your voice together. You'll learn, get resources, and make friends who share your passion for saving the planet. Let's make a difference, one step at a time.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/233-join-a-climate-action-group>

**_Avoid Buying Fast Fashion_**
Fast fashion is all about cheap, trendy clothes, but it's not so great for the planet or the people making them. The fashion industry emits a lot of greenhouse gases due to energy and water use. Plus, fast fashion means low-quality clothes that end up in the trash quickly. Invest in timeless, high-quality pieces that last longer. Also, opt for quality, secondhand, and take good care of what you have.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/561-avoid-buying-fast-fashion>

**_Electric Bike Instead of Drive_**
Discover the joy of electric bikes! They make commuting a breeze, especially uphill or with heavy loads. You don't need to be a fitness buff to ride them, and they're loads of fun! Charge them like your phone, and they can even replace cars for local trips. With their efficiency, e-bikes are eco-friendly and can save you money in the long run.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/9-electric-bike-instead-of-drive>

## **BUT WAIT, THERE’S MORE!**
Didn’t find an action that fits your lifestyle? There are plenty more ideas for meaningful and impactful actions on the [Earth Hero website](https://www.earthhero.org/act), and in our [amazing free app](https://www.earthhero.org/app). Please visit, download, and start doing anything you can to help save the planet.


Green Living Ideas: Renter Edition

**[Climate change and global warming](https://www.wwf.org.uk/climate-change-and-global-warming) are not topics to consider casually or procrastinate about addressing at some later date. They are our biggest worldwide priorities. Or at least they should be, and the more that time drags on, the more pressing the issues become.**

Each decision we make as people, on a planet with finite resources and rising global temperatures, impacts the atmosphere and environment in some way or another. From the energy that we use to power our mobile phones and vehicles to the food we eat, from the ways we heat and cool our homes to the ways we wash our clothes, eco-friendliness and sustainability remain hot topics of conversation (no pun intended). 

Being eco-friendly is increasingly important to minimise the damage we inflict on the environment. As more people continue to strive to reduce carbon emissions, even more are trying to find other, sustainable ways they can live and work on a planet on the brink of reaching an [‘irreversible’ climate breakdown](https://climate.nasa.gov/faq/16/is-it-too-late-to-prevent-climate-change/). Despite this bleak outlook, every action, however little, can decrease the extent of damage done.

## Being Sustainable Should Not Be Seen as Temporary

Currently, global carbon emissions must fall by about half by 2030 if all nations are to meet the [internationally agreed target of a 1.5°C rise in temperatures](https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement) above pre-industrial levels (also known as the Paris Climate Agreement). Most countries are then aiming to achieve net zero carbon status by 2050.

However, many people are still unclear on how they can be helping as individuals, or even whether there is any merit to them making large-scale changes of their own, especially considering influential and powerful oil corporations continue to [make record profits](https://www.energymonitor.ai/finance/big-oil-profits-soared-to-nearly-200bn-in-2022/) while pushing pollution costs onto the rest of us. 

Around [40% of carbon emissions](https://www.theccc.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/5CB-Infographic-FINAL-.pdf) come from households, with the average home producing 8.2 tonnes of CO₂ per year. While this sounds daunting, this is an improvement from [the 1990 averages](https://heatable.co.uk/boiler-advice/average-carbon-footprint#:~:text=In%20short%2C%20the%20report%20makes,current%20average%20of%208.1%20tonnes.), decreasing by about 4.7 tonnes. Fundamentally, much of these emissions come from how we heat and power our homes, as well as our transportation choices and food choices. It’s widely believed that we have to [reduce our emissions by 57% by 2030](https://www.greenmatch.co.uk/blog/2019/02/households-fight-greenhouse-gas-emissions) if we are to reach the next milestone of becoming carbon-neutral.

Making sustainable swaps in energy, transport and diet can make a huge difference. Fundamentally, however, it doesn’t have to be seen as an ‘all or nothing’ change, nor should you view this as a way to live sustainably for a short period, until, say, the milestone is reached, and then revert to older, unsustainable habits. 

Making smaller, incremental changes to your lifestyle can combine to make a positive long-term difference. If everybody made such changes, the collective benefits would be even greater. The good news is that many meaningful changes, including those highlighted below are easier to achieve and commit to than you might think. Plus a lot of these will help improve your life and save you money!

## 1. Go Vegetarian or Vegan or Eat Less Meat

Animal agriculture is responsible for producing more greenhouse gases than the entire world’s collective transportation systems together. It takes approximately [1,850 gallons of water](https://www.watercalculator.org/news/articles/beef-king-big-water-footprints/) to produce one pound of beef, inflicting significant demand on water supplies. This isn’t even accounting for the [ethical considerations](https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/food-drink/what-factory-farming-why-it-problem) associated with intensive factory farming, or the wide amount of health benefits anyone can experience by adopting a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

The reality is that eating a mostly or entirely plant-based diet is easier than ever in many areas. Supermarkets and restaurants are bringing more inclusive and tasty vegetarian and vegan options to their shelves and menus, respectively. By reducing your meat intake - even in small amounts to begin with - you will be reducing pressure on land used to grow animal feed. This reduces threats to biodiversity and the earth’s ecosystems, which in turn helps to minimise the effects of climate change. 

## 2. Recycle, Sell or Donate Unwanted Items

Getting rid of any unused or unwanted items can give them a new purpose. You may know friends or family that would benefit from reusing electronics, ornaments, artwork, furniture or numerous other household essentials. Alternatively, used or unwanted items can often be donated to charities that will put them to good use. 

If not, they may be recyclable, so it’s worth checking with your local waste management department to [ensure your items can be recycled](https://www.earthhero.org/act/122-recycle-everything-you-can) instead of added to the landfill pile. By recycling, items get broken down into materials which can be used in new products, which can lessen the impact of raw material production. 

## 3. Buy Less and Shop Sustainably

The best thing you can buy for the environment and your bank account is nothing. It takes a lot of energy and resources to create new stuff. Sure, we need some new things to lead a good life, but is all really necessary and bringing you happiness?

Beyond that, whopping as sustainably as possible can reduce the impact of widespread industrial waste pollution. Food shopping is a necessity, yet presents a variety of challenges such as  single-use plastic in packaging (which isn’t recyclable), the carbon emissions caused by imports throughout the numerous product supply chains, and the amount of food waste. As a consumer, you can do your part by bringing your own containers for food or shopping in sustainable stores that import local, fair trade or organic produce. 

Sustainable shopping doesn’t just extend to food, but clothing and electronics as well. The clothing industry is responsible for [10% of global greenhouse gas emissions](https://earth.org/fast-fashion-pollution-and-climate-change/) (1.2 billion tonnes of CO₂ released per year), so buying second-hand clothes from outlets or charity shops is a good way to counteract this. You can repurpose old items and reduce the impact of new production lines, not to mention saving in costs too. As far as electronics go, e-waste continues to be a growing problem, but there are options for reusing old equipment such as laptops, TVs, and even [digital cameras](https://www.mpb.com/en-uk), if you are a tech aficionado. If reusing is not feasible, check with your local waste management agency for details on how to properly dispose of electronics and other household hazardous waste.

## 4. Green Travel Choices

Choosing to walk, cycle or take public transport are [greener alternatives to driving](https://www.earthhero.org/act/8-bike-instead-of-drive). Switching to these alternative methods of transport can decrease the amount of carbon created by vehicles. While public transport vehicles like buses or trains still create emissions, the fact that multiple people can use the same vehicle instead of driving individual cars means that public transportation is much greener. 

Walking and cycling also have plenty of health benefits, and more companies are taking advantage of schemes like [the Cycle to Work scheme](https://www.bikeradar.com/advice/buyers-guides/cycle-to-work-scheme-everything-you-need-to-know/), which can be incentivised. However, depending on where you live, sometimes this may not be feasible. In this case, switching to electric cars is a much more eco-friendly way to reduce emissions, and these cars look set to become more available and affordable in the coming years.

## 5. Be Smarter With Energy

Becoming more environmentally friendly often begins by looking at your energy usage and conserving as much energy as possible. By draught-proofing your home, and adding double or triple glazing and insulation, you’ll naturally make the home warmer, while not relying so much on central heating. Choose LED light bulbs and high-energy efficiency appliances to keep your electricity consumption to a minimum. 

If it’s feasible for you to do so, you may want to consider switching to low-carbon heating systems like heat pumps, which are significantly more energy-saving than standalone gas boilers. There are often government schemes to help with the upfront costs associated with installing heat pumps in your home. 

Induction hobs are far more energy-efficient, cooking at faster speeds than gas stoves, which can save more electricity over time as well as avoid causing fumes in the home. Therefore, it’s worth upgrading this appliance if you can. 

Furthermore, you may also wish to approach alternative energy suppliers, particularly those that use clean energy. This can also end up saving you money, which is handy in turbulent, financially-testing times when energy prices are soaring.

For an easy and engaging way to track your progress and impact, along with more inspirational ideas on how to improve your life in a sustainable and eco-friendly way, why not [download the Earth Hero app](https://www.earthhero.org/app)? Through action comes hope!


Stuff

Buy less, choose better, and reduce waste by rethinking how you use, reuse, and dispose of goods.