Tag: Nature

Don’t Release Carbon from Your Soil When Gardening

Washington (ONGC) 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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Composting | A Major Climate Solution

Washington (ONGC) Analysis | May 19, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

Perspective is everything. Composting can seem like a daunting task or a simple way to make our soil healthy. The benefits of composting for the climate and the environment may persuade you to get on board, to learn something new, and to contribute to a growing movement to give back.

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Paper Towel Alternative! | Build Back Better

Washington (GGM) Analysis | March 5, 2021 by Pamela Scaiff (Canadian)

When was the last time you reached for a paper towel to clean up a mess?  Has COVID got you using more? How much do you pay for paper towels each week?  Each month?  Each year?  Or in a lifetime?  Do the personal finance math and then the ecological math and you may find yourself questioning whether paper towels really add quality to your life!  Did you know that Americans use more paper towels per capita daily than either of their neighbours?!

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A Sustainability Journey | Build Back Better

Washington (GGM) Analysis | February 18, 2021 by Pamela Scaiff; introduction and closing by Noreen Wise

Spending the past nine months in Canada during Covid, all in on sustainability immersion, taught me a lot. In fact, I’ve completely reinvented myself in such a short period of time. The most startling aspect of my metamorphosis was understanding how easy it is to live sustainably when everyone in a given community is doing so. Stronger together. My bud, Canadian sustainability guru Pamela Scaiff, is the master of sustainability and has been my supreme guide for the past four months. I’m thrilled that she agreed to share her wisdom with all of us.

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From Raging Wildfires to Habitat Restoration | Soil Health

Washington (GGM) Analysis | February 14, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

Wildfires are unpredictable, destructive, and, in recent times, more common. Among their many victims is the soil. Soil forms the foundation of our food chain, and so is of primary importance. Cristina Santin and Stefan H. Doerr conjure up a graphic image for us: Soil is the “living, breathing skin of the Earth.” It’s an image to keep in mind when considering how the land recovers from a fire.

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IKEA | A Leader in Sustainability

Washington (GGM) Analysis | February 5, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

Saving a forest is big news these days, and just what we need to energize us. Each day, we practice sustainable living – reusing, reducing, recycling, upcycling. Every bit helps ward off climate change. So when IKEA buys a gigantic forest, saving it from development, and promises to manage it sustainably, we have reason to celebrate. We have a partner that values the science behind climate change and is willing to invest in the future. IKEA’s recent purchase of 10,680 acres of Georgia forest, and its commitment to maintain it responsibly, lend hope to all the eco-warriors out there fighting the good fight.

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Winter Activities for Kids | Climate Change

Washington (GGM) Analysis | January 31, 2021 by Catherine Zacuto, M. Ed.

It’s cold out there! You might be wondering about how to keep the kids busy, active, and productive. While remaining tucked away in the warm, cozy house, you can occupy them as they get ready to be Climate Superheroes! The hope of spring can inspire everyone to dig in and prepare for the near future, a future made better because you are helping fight climate change.

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Compost & Carbon Sink| Climate Action

Washington (GGM) Analysis | December 10, 2020 by Noreen Wise

Compost is a big deal in the calculus for increasing carbon sink in our soil. It provides one of the most effective methods for the US public to assist with cutting carbon as deeply and swiftly as possible.

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How to Use Your ‘Mom Status’ to Help Mother Nature

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 25, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

Think back to your childhood. If you ever had a problem that you couldn’t resolve yourself, who did you ask for help? Chances are, the answer is your mom. Had a pull in your ballet tights five minutes before your recital started? She had you covered with a spritz of hairspray. Couldn’t find your soccer cleats? Hall closet on the left next to the blue duffel bag no hesitation. Tiffany Saunders told everyone that you stuffed your bra in the seventh grade? She called her mom, and the rumor mill ended. Done. 

It’s ingrained in us from a young age— if you have a problem and need something done about it fast, ask a Mom. That’s why it is no surprise that ‘Mom’s in Movements’ make major headway. Whether it’s the hundreds of thousands of nutritious meals provided by Moms Against Poverty, the blockage of 3 million illegal gun sales due in part to Moms Demand Action, or the human shield provided to Black Lives Matter protesters in Oregon by the Wall of Moms— passionate mothers make a difference.

Twitter- @QCDCNY

These three celebrity moms are making big waves in sustainability and preserving the environment. Hear what they have been saying about protecting mother nature and preparing the planet for the next generation. You will definitely feel inspired!

Anne Hathaway The Les Misérables actress is more than just a Hollywood star. She is an activist, NYU graduate, and a Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations. In an interview with InStyle, Hathaway explained how she is raising a ‘Zero Waste’ family. Anne said of the eco-friendly switch, “While working on The Hustle, I noticed disposable coffee cups, plastic water bottles, idling trucks, and food waste. When I finished the film, my family and I went zero waste.” 

Hilary Duff Mother of two little ones, this Lizzy McGuire actress was on the cover of the “Mother Earth” issue  published by Parents magazine. She regularly uses social media to share tips that any family can use to help combat the climate crisis. Of these seemingly small steps, she said, “at first, saving the environment sounds scary and overwhelming, but as we implement new rules, it becomes easier and easier.”

Instagram- @hilaryduff

Alicia Silverstone Author of The Kind Diet, this star is far from Clueless. Long-time plant-based mamma and activist, Silverstone makes her opinions known about climate action. In an interview with VegNews she stated, “our rapidly growing dependence on animals as a food source is one of the greatest threats to the climate.” She too regularly takes to social media to share eco-friendly recipes and tips. 

If you are feeling empowered to use your ‘mom status’ to make positive changes, follow these stars on Instagram, or get involved in the movement by visiting Mothers Out Front.  Mothers Out Front is dedicated to impacting the way the world responds to climate change. They provide resources for families and lobby for green initiatives. Right now, they are fighting for electric school buses for children. Who knows what they could accomplish with your help!

© Copyright 2018 – 2020. ALL Rights Reserved.

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Why You Need to Know About the Launch of The Wonderful Wine Co.

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 6, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

This time last summer, your evening plans may have included slipping on stilettos to meet up with a few friends at a new roof-top bar or rocking your favorite fedora at a neighborhood block party. As Friday quickly approaches, we know swanky bars and big parties are out of the question, but that doesn’t mean you have to let your summer slip away. You can uncork a bottle of wine on your back porch with your neighbor– six feet away, of course– and toast to Mother Nature!

Yes, that’s right; there is a wine that is actually doing something for the environment. In June of 2020, Winc launched a totally vegan and oh so sustainable line of wine. It’s called The Wonderful Wine Co., and people are loving it!  

Twitter – @helloboxes

The Wonderful Wine Co. is dedicated to the wellness of the planet and the wellness of its customers. All of the grapes are derived from organic vineyards, and no added chemicals or added sugars are used in the process. Unlike most wine available, The Wonderful Wine Co. is all vegan. This means that the ground-up bone, casein, milk, and fish bladders that sneak their way into your typical Rosé, won’t be found here.

More than simply better for you, this wine is better for the planet. The ingredients, the packaging, how it is shipped, and even the bottle itself are meticulously designed with Mother Nature in mind. Wonderful Wine uses a special lightweight glass bottle that requires 20% less energy and 12% less water in production, which reduces carbon emissions by 27%. They also have reduced landfill contributions and deforestation by eliminating the trash producing polylaminate capsule altogether and using an all-natural biodegradable cork. Additionally, the box the wine is housed in is 100% recyclable and 95% compostable.

With four delicious selections coming from non-GMO vineyards in Argentina, France, and California, there is a delicious and sophisticated option for any occasion. For a sustainable sip of summer, pour yourself a glass of The Limited Edition Orange wine. With notes of citrus and white peach and a touch of honeysuckle, you will know why they call it Wonderful Wine.

Instagram – @blevineproductions

Come back every Thursday to learn more about the role veganism plays in combating climate change!

Tl;dr

  • Winc launched The Wonderful Wine Co., a vegan and sustainable line of wine
  • The grapes are derived from organic vineyards
  • No added chemicals or added sugars are used in the process
  • Most other wine includes ground-up bone, casein, milk, and fish bladders
  • Wonderful Wine uses a special lightweight glass bottle that reduces carbon emissions by 27%
  • They reduced landfill contributions and deforestation by eliminating the polylaminate capsule and using an all-natural biodegradable cork
  • The box is 100% recyclable and 95% compostable

© Copyright 2018 – 2020. ALL Rights Reserved.