sustainable living
Credit: TED Conference/Flickr
A leading marine biologist advocates for optimism in climate change discussions
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, a prominent climate activist and marine biologist, emphasizes the importance of cautious optimism and collective action in addressing the climate crisis.
In short:
- Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson promotes a hopeful outlook on climate change, focusing on actionable solutions.
- Her upcoming book, "What if We Get It Right?" explores promising climate solutions through interviews with various leaders.
- Johnson highlights the need for inclusive communication to engage diverse audiences in climate action.
Key quote:
“People don’t like sacrifice. People don’t like bans. But I think there’s a way to frame that as: This is an opportunity to live a different and better life.”
— Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson, marine biologist and climate activist.
Why this matters:
Emphasizing positive, actionable steps can motivate more people to participate in climate solutions in meaningful ways, ultimately driving public engagement and policy support to mitigate global warming's impacts. Read more: Finding climate solutions in communities instead of labs.
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Credit: Corey Templeton/Flickr
Exploring the 15-minute city concept for sustainable urban living
The 15-minute city concept promotes healthier living through reduced car dependence and increased local engagement.
In short:
- Carlos Moreno advocates for cities where daily necessities are reachable within 15 minutes on foot or by bike, enhancing quality of life and reducing car reliance.
- Implementation of this concept in Paris has cut down traffic and pollution substantially, showcasing its effectiveness.
- The model faces criticism regarding potential increases in social inequities, underscoring the need for inclusive planning.
Key quote:
"It’s an invitation to reinvent our lifestyles and urban practices to build a better future, where sustainability, equity, and well-being are at the heart of our concerns."
— Carlos Moreno, scientist and mathematician
Why this matters:
The 15-minute city concept can transform urban living, making healthier lifestyles more accessible and reducing environmental impact. Read more: The next global transformation of cities.
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Credit: Mr.Jub/BigStock Photo ID: 237212287
"Ecovillages" around the globe are a realistic glimpse of a sustainable future
The writers explore how communities prioritize sustainability through advanced agricultural techniques and community-focused living.
Stephanie Hanes and Sara Miller Llana report for The Christian Science Monitor.
In short:
- Experts indicate a significant rise in ecological communities globally, reflecting a shift towards integrating sustainable practices into everyday life.
- From projects in Africa to former mine sites turned into permaculture sites, in Barbados, the number of "ecovillages" in the Global Ecovillage Network has skyrocketed from 440 a decade ago to over 10,000 last year.
- For example, Martina Wiedemar and Joao Almeida are developing Gandum Village in Portugal, integrating solar panels, earthen buildings, and regenerative agriculture to promote sustainable living.
- The project aims to engage the public by offering residency options and community activities, emphasizing the accessibility and appeal of eco-friendly lifestyles.
Key quote:
"This place is an example that a sustainable life can be beautiful. It can be easy. It’s not just a hippie thing."
— Joao Almeida, co-founder of Gandum Village.
Why this matters:
These innovative models offer a glimpse into how communities can fundamentally reshape living standards to be more sustainable by integrating eco-friendly practices into daily life. Read more: Climate, justice, and the deep roots of regenerative farming.
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Credit: The Humble Co. on Unsplash
Can we please quit plastic toothbrushes?
Your toothbrush is part of the plastic crisis. It doesn’t have to be.
| BigStock Photo ID: 456977425 |
| Copyright: tanaonte |
How to avoid getting scammed by greenwashing
Deceptive eco-marketing techniques prey on consumers looking to make responsible purchases. Follow these tips to avoid getting duped.
What homeowners can do to help stem climate change
Relatively simple measures like thermostat control, composting and switching to electric appliances can make a big difference.
Photo by Lenka Dzurendova on Unsplash
New York City residents will soon have to compost their food scraps
The City Council passed a bill on Thursday requiring New Yorkers to separate their food waste from regular trash, with mandatory composting coming to all five boroughs by next year.
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