Category: Climate Action

circular economy, Climate Action, Nature, soil, sustainability

Big Sur Slide Signals Need for Immediate Action on Climate | Soil

Washington (CAR) Analysis | June 16, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

Big Sur just lost a section of its famous coast-hugging highway, and it’s not the first time. The super-scenic roadway boasts magnificent views of giant Redwoods to the east and bluest of blue Pacific Ocean to the west. Drivers struggle to keep eyes on the road as the jaw-dropping views captivate their passengers. Being perilously close to the edge of the continent, though, has its dangers. Two recent catastrophic breaks in the road resulted in sections of the highway plunging into the Pacific, hundreds of yards below. Scientists and residents are finding connections between climate change and the damage done to their beloved two-lane road.

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circular economy, Climate Action, Nature, soil, sustainability

Let’s Fix Our Soil So It Can Store More Carbon

Washington (CAR) Analysis | June 9, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

What can be done about climate change? A lot! Many of us are busy making significant changes in our everyday habits to become more sustainable and lower our carbon footprints. However, there are a few tricks that have yet to be applied on a grand scale, and now’s the time. If you compost, you are part of a growing wave of people concerned about soil health. Because soil stores a significant amount of carbon, keeping it there is vital in the fight against climate change. This is especially significant in agriculture, with its vast acreage. Soil, not to be confused with dirt, is an ecosystem in itself, with millions of microbes and insects which are responsible for plant growth. Maintaining a natural, undisturbed  balance in the soil’s ecosystem leads to a higher level of carbon storage as well as strong, healthy crops. “No-till” farms help make this happen. They are an arrow in our quiver of weapons to fight climate change.

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Climate Action, Climate Change

The Footprint of Our Food | Vegan Scene

Washington (CAR) Analysis | June 8, 2021 by Sarah J. Kings; Image Credit: AdobeStock

Many of us know about the widely successful climate campaign #Change1Thing. The idea is fantastic. People need to feel empowered; we need to feel like there is something we can do to combat the massive problem we are facing. #Change1Thing does that! With each metal straw and every reusable bag, consumers feel like they are slowly turning the wheels in the right direction. Still, if you are looking at your latest zero waste purchase, and wondering if this is enough to reduce your carbon footprint, then you’re in the right place.  

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Climate Action, Climate Change, Eco, Environment, EPA, Health, soil

Environmental Justice for Gordon Plaza | Systematic Failure to Protect Health

Washington (ONGC) Analysis | June 7, 2021 by author and climate journalist Noreen Wise

Gordon Plaza is a subdivision in the New Orlean’s Desire neighborhood that was developed on the ASL hazardous waste site in the early 1980’s. The first residents, excited about securing their little piece of the pie, moved into their new homes in 1981, 40 years ago. Most of the houses are modest ranches with 3 bedrooms and 2 baths, on 5,000 square ft lots. The properties were federally funded and intentionally marketed as affordable housing to low income wage earners seeking an opportunity to move on up. 

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circular economy, Climate Action, Environment, Ethics, Wildlife

Top 5 Vegan Beauty Brands | Vegan Scene

Washington (GGM) Analysis | June 2, 2021 by Sarah J. Kings

Consumer ethics has never been such a hot topic!  Compassionate and eco-friendly shoppers are searching for resources and products everyday. With many making changes in their diet and fashion choices, there has never been a better time to switch out your old cosmetics and trade them in for vegan alternatives. Vegan beauty brands do not rely on animal cruelty and animal products or biproducts to create makeup. Here is a list of five major vegan and cruelty free beauty brands that are focused on both ethics and sustainability. 

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Climate Action, Climate Change, Health

What To Do if You’re Feeling Like Miley | Vegan Scene

Washington (ONGC) Analysis | June 1, 2021 by Sarah J. Kings

Whether you have been vegan for a long time or are new to the scene, you probably saw that Miley Cyrus made headlines last September after her interview with Joe Rogan on September 3rd. Cyrus shocked listeners and fans when she revealed that she is no longer vegan. Miley ditched meat in 2013, and since has been a major advocate for animal rights and veganism.  She has been actively involved in PETA campaigns and has spoken publicly about animal abuse on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. She even has the “Vegan Society Approved” symbol tattooed on her arm. So how could the woman that PETA declared to “Mrs. Vegan,” just leave the team? 

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Climate Action, Climate Change, Eco, Environment, Health, soil

Climate Change and the Explosive Book: Environmental Hazards, Are You Exposed?

Washington (CAR) Analysis | May 28, 2021 by Climate Journalist Noreen Wise; Special Guest author Fred Siegel Environmental Hazards, Are You Exposed?

Today’s atmospheric carbon level is 419.53 ppm, up two points from just a week ago. Additionally, scientists announced today that within the next five years we are 90 percent likely to break yet another record for the hottest year in recorded history, which despite 197 countries joining the Paris Agreement, and working so hard to reduce global warming, shows that we’re tracking in the wrong direction. 

How is this possible?

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circular economy, Climate Action, sustainability

Vegan Junk Food Without Palm Oil?! | Vegan Scene

Washington (CAR) Analysis | May 27, 2021 by Sarah J. Kings; Image Credit AdoibeStock

According to Lacey Bourassa, of Plant Proteins.co, there has been a 500% increase in consumers identifying as being vegan within the last six years. Whether people are switching up their eating habits for ethical, health, feminist, or ecological reasons- or a combination- it is clear that eliminating animal products from our plates is on the rise. 

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Climate Action, Environment, Ethics, National Parks, Wildlife

Leave No Trace — A Parents Guide

Washington (CAR) Analysis | May 26, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings; Image Credit: AdobeStock

You are trying your best to head an eco-friendly family.  You are recycling and upcycling like a champ, you’re careful not to waste water or gas, and maybe you’ve even incorporated Meatless Mondays into your routine. With all the planet conscious talk around your house, your kids are probably starting to show a little love for Mother Nature too.

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Climate Action, Climate Change

Which Vegan Milk is Best For Planet? | Vegan Scene

Washington (CAR) Analysis | May 25, 2021 by Sarah J. Kings; Image Credit: AdobeStock

According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), approximately 270 million dairy cows live on farms and factory farms across the globe. The dairy industry produces greenhouse gas emissions that negatively impact the environment and contribute to climate change. Additionally, “poor handling of manure and fertilizers can degrade local water resources. And unsustainable dairy farming and feed production can” also “lead to the loss of ecologically important areas, such as prairies, wetlands, and forests.”

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