1(globalThis.TURBOPACK||(globalThis.TURBOPACK=[])).push(["object"==typeof document?document.currentScript:void 0,10939,e=>{"use strict";e.s(["default",0,[{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec7OJQlq23vKevfr",id:3,slug:"3-switch-to-dark-mode",title:"Switch to dark mode",categories:["Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/3-switch-to-dark-mode",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recIFYYjdLsMwLF5P","recKFKY0izr0abNfO","recFAPaskdomvwJQr"],tips:"⢠Unsure how to set up dark mode on your device? Either go to your settings and search for Dark Mode or do a quick search online, including your device's name.\n\n⢠Tried dark mode and do not like it? No big deal. The impact is minor. These action ideas are simply about helping you figure out what works for you.",description:'Most phones, computers, and other electronics have a dark mode option that presents a light color text (white or gray) against a dark background instead of the standard dark text on top of a white background. If your device has an OLED screen, which most newer ones do, <a href="https://www.cnet.com/news/using-androids-dark-mode-improves-battery-life-google-confirms-p/">dark mode can reduce the battery drain</a>, which saves energy.\n\nSome people also find that dark mode looks cooler and is more comfortable on the eyes. Plus, it reduces blue light, <a href="https://www.insider.com/is-dark-mode-better-for-your-eyes">which may help you sleep better</a>.',summary:"Many devices offer a dark mode option, which not only looks stylish but also saves energy on OLED screens. To activate it, check your device settings or search online for instructions.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@danielkorpai'>Daniel Korpai</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFqOQwlutz8nEs9",id:5,slug:"5-be-resilient",title:"Be Resilient!",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/5-be-resilient",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Community & Institutions"],related:["recPx42pnTQefosn9","recU8owpHoPVPBu58","recndxU3Vak9jKnRC"],tips:"⢠Where you live determines what sorts of events are likely to impact you. If you are not sure or are new to the area, ask your neighbors or do some research online to find out what sorts of disaster you might one day face.\n\n⢠Climate change is likely to bring multiple concurrent disasters, but it is best to start by preparing well for a single type of emergency. Then, you can build your response to additional ones over time.\n\n⢠Community is the best insurance against disasters of all types. Join with others to get prepared and to stay prepared! It is much easier to build community relationships and local resilience before a disaster happens than to scramble to figure it out afterward.\n\n⢠Resilience is not created in a single big push but is
1incrementally built, maintained, and improved over time. Resilience is a journey that delivers rewards as you go.",description:"Being resilient is a critical and learnable skill that will help you cope with and rebound from misfortune, including the challenges you may face due to climate change. In this respect, being resilient means accepting and anticipating the sorts of problems that you and your community will face. That could range from floods to fires, extreme heat to unprecedented cold snaps, utility disruption, food scarcity, or climate migrants moving from newly inhospitable areas into yours.\n\nIf we are working to proactively address climate change by reducing pollution and adopting better ways of living, why do we need to think about resilience? Unfortunately, no matter how successful we are, climate change and climate disasters of many types are already a reality. They will sadly get worse because carbon pollution continues to spew out at an incredible rate around the world.\n\nThis action asks that you commit to developing resiliency in the face of the climate challenge. It invites you to foster an attitude of optimism and confidence by undertaking practical actions that will usefully anticipate the climate-driven disasters you are most likely to face. Committing to this is the first and only step this action requires. Other Resilience actions will help you prepare for specific challenges and grow resiliency in your community.",summary:"Climate change brings inevitable challenges, necessitating resilience. Embrace a mindset of optimism and practical actions to anticipate and cope with climate-driven disasters, fostering community and preparedness for the future.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@midkiffaries">\nTed Balmer</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recULZQZDJeFWFk7H",id:6,slug:"6-use-mass-transit",title:"Use mass transit",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/6-use-mass-transit",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ System Change","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recdkSBsZ4hKhmrZk","recpdhXvUxEwu2hbR","receSMtAziUd1n5kS"],tips:'⢠Read up on transportation options in your area to see which services work best for you. You may be surprised at what is available.\n\n⢠If you have not gone a particular route before, test it with a simple low-stress trip. You will learn a lot, and it will make the next time even easier.\n\n⢠Look at a transit app to help you become an expert. <a href="https://moovitapp.com">Moovit</a>, <a href="https://transitapp.com">Transit</a> and <a href="https://citymapper.com">Citymapper</a> are good ones to start with.\n\n⢠If where you currently live does not have a good public transit system, then simply mark this action Not for me. Keep public transit in mind if it comes to your area, for a future home, or when visiting other places.',description:'Want to go somewhere, but it would be too far to bike or walk to? Use public transit! Sit back and enjoy the view as you get chauffeured to your destination. Plus, save some serious money in the process!\n\nTaking public transit is a great way to reduce pollution from traveling. Not just carbon emissions, but nitrous oxide and other pollutants that create <a href="https://climatesteps.org/2021/08/23/free-public-transportation-the-time-is-now/">massive health issues and greenhouse effects</a>.\n\nMass transit also helps prevent the land from being covered in concrete (another large carbon emitter), supports stronger towns, and ensures everyone can easily get to jobs and fun activities. Enjoy the ride!',summary:"Public transit reduces pollution, reduces congestion, and supports communities. To enhance this, explore local transit options, give them a try, and use transit apps for smooth travel.",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@litvinov'>Egor Litvinov</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recBAF98XbIBO4pKe",id:8,slug:"8-bike-instead-of-drive",title:"Bike instead of drive",categories:["Travel & Transport","Home & Work","Outside"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/8-bike-instead-of-drive",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec5qybFlv6PdbOH7","recJ8TgN20ziJ6WTD","recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7"],tips:"⢠If you do not own a bike they can be purchased affordably second-hand.\n\n⢠Start with one short trip. If this is new to you, do not push it too much the first time.\n\n⢠Try running an errand with your bike, not just commuting to work. It can make errand running more fun!\n\n⢠Other trips could include a school run, a short food trip, visiting a friend nearby, or taking the kids to the park.\n\n⢠If you are in an urban environment, consider joining a bike share â this way you do not have to buy and store a bike, but instead will send a message to your community that bikes and bike shares are desirable.\n\n⢠A bike tune-up by your local bike pro or co-op can make a huge difference and make you feel more confident.\n\n⢠Strapping a milk crate to a bike or using panniers (bags slung on both sides of the bike) is an easy way to carry things.\n\n⢠Use good lights and reflective clothing if riding at dusk or in the dark.",description:"Car travel is one of the biggest carbon dioxide emission sources and creates harmful particulates, nitrous oxide, ozone, and other pollutants. Cycling is a great alternative for many car journeys, bringing significant health benefits and saving serious money. Plus it is a lot more fun!\n\nFurther, cycling is a visible action that helps other people see that regular people can bike â and you do not have to wear spandex. Your trips also show your community that the infrastru
1cture needs changing; more bikes can thus mean fewer wide roads and large cement parking garages and instead more bike paths and stands. Tar and cement are big greenhouse gas emitters.",summary:"Cycling is a great alternative for many car journeys, bringing significant health benefits and saving serious money. Plus it is a lot more fun! Use your bike (or a bike through a bikeshare) to run an errand or go anywhere in range.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@nairdasemaj'>Adrian Williams</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7",id:9,slug:"9-electric-bike-instead-of-drive",title:"Electric bike instead of drive",categories:["Travel & Transport","Home & Work","Outside"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/9-electric-bike-instead-of-drive",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recBAF98XbIBO4pKe","recFIs17Sk9rZekTd","rec5qybFlv6PdbOH7","recJ8TgN20ziJ6WTD","recOPWK3qjbAS1gak","recuisp3GhoFIXIX8","recAbiV5kn3FDYOLp","recXXt2jchAoc5I4j","recIzX9VgJywMhNsJ","recleaoHS8GMdkjAP","recpKMlPlKT86K55r","rec7QX86vX50K9tgc","recDC5bUmbwqeR24a","recSunfhRjiDx8qSY","recndxU3Vak9jKnRC","receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU","rec6rnYcFoWs2dRyM"],tips:"⢠Before buying a bike, decide what your needs are and focus on the bikes that address those needs. There are bikes for single riders, bikes for single riders with the occasional passenger or load, cargo bikes that can carry additional people or cargo. Some motors are best for hills and batteries with different capacities. Be sure to test ride before committing.\n\n⢠If you are a parent who needs to transport children, electric cargo bikes are an outstanding option. Many can easily haul them and kids love the experience.\n\n⢠If you live somewhere with bad weather, pack appropriate weather gear (i.e., rain gear, winter coats, gloves, etc.) for yourself and the kids. Everyone will be more happy during the journey!\n\n⢠Transitioning to riding a bike can feel overwhelming at first. Try replacing a few regular car trips with the bike at first.\n\n⢠Spend time researching routes that will minimize exposure to traffic. Map apps suggest bike routes, but it is good to confirm the suggested route with other sources of information, such as local bike maps, if possible. After a while, the best bike routes through your city or town will become ingrained knowledge.\n\n⢠Get a bike mount for your smartphone, which helps you navigate new areas.\n\n⢠Take safety precautions. Wear a helmet and ensure you have lights (front and back) for biking as it gets dark. Many electric bikes have built-in lights, which is a plus.",description:"An electric bike is a game-changer for bike commuting. The motor assist makes it easy to travel fast, climb hills, and haul heavy loads (including children!) without breaking a sweat (literally). You do not have to be in amazing shape to get around on an electric bike. They are also fun to ride! Studies show that people ride their bike more when it is electric since the motor assistance makes riding easier.\n\nAt the end of the day, just plug your electric bike into a normal wall socket, and you will be good to go with a full charge for the next day. For local trips, it is possible for an electric bike to entirely replace a car, especially if it is a cargo bike that can carry passengers, groceries, and other loads.\n\nSurprisingly, for many people, adding an electric motor to a bike makes biking less carbon intensive. The conversion of energy consumed by humans as food into powering a bike is ~25% (the efficiency of human metabolism), while that of an electric motor is ~80%. This motor assistance is meaningful since our food system is currently very energy-intensive. The typical person will reduce their per-mile emissions by ~45% on an electric bike relative to a regular bike. Both types of biking, of course, emit much less carbon than driving a gas car.\n\nE-biking is also better than driving an electric car. A meat eater will reduce per-mile emissions by ~40% on an electric bike compared to an electric car, while the reduction increases to ~70% for a vegetarian. If electricity comes from a renewable source, then emissions reductions from riding an electric bike are even greater.\n\nAn electric bike can be a big money saver as well. There is an upfront cost associated with buying an electric bike, but this is paid back quickly (often in months) by replacing or reducing car use (e.g., parking, gas, operation and maintenance costs).",summary:"Electric bikes make getting around effortless and eco-friendly. Find the right bike for your needs, try replacing a few car trips with the bike, and have fun with this fast and fun way to get around.",additionalResources:"https://youtu.be/0zJHMMYa01g\n\nhttps://earthtalk.org/e-bikes-better-carbon-footprint/\n\nhttps://www.theverge.com/2019/10/10/20904414/electric-bikes-ebike-guide-rideables-battery-how-to-buy-price\n\nhttps://www.bicycling.com/skills-tips/a20044021/13-things-about-e-bikes/\n\nhttps://www.curbed.com/2020/2/20/21144019/transit-cycling-electric-bike-car-free",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-and-man-riding-on-bike-386024/'>Photo by Nubia Navarro (nubikini)</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recH4sucMi58sV4GR",id:10,slug:"10-wor
1k-from-home",title:"Work from home",categories:["Travel & Transport","Home & Work"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/10-work-from-home",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â³ Saves Time","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec7OJQlq23vKevfr","recKFKY0izr0abNfO","recBAF98XbIBO4pKe"],tips:"⢠If your employer is still getting used to the idea make sure the first steps are small and productive. Consider starting small with one day a week at home and ensure they see tangible benefits to your availability and productivity working remotely.\n\n⢠Set up a station in your home much like at work where you can focus and be productive without distractions.\n\n⢠Build routine in your day. Think about regular breaks to get up and about to keep your mind fresh.\n\n⢠Coffee shops can be great places to set up meetings when you require more than a video conference can offer.",description:"Telecommuting has great potential to reduce emissions. Although it is not feasible for all people to work from home all the time, transportation makes up more than a quarter of all global COâ emissions and this is one of the best actions we can take to reduce that impact.\n\nIf a quarter of the world worked from home, it would eliminate 27 million tonnes of emissions annually. Even more promising than the direct reduction in pollution, there are echo effects from the change in lifestyle. It has positive effects on the need to own a car, buy new clothing, replacing/upgrading roads, manufacturing more automobiles, etc.\n\nThe benefits of working from home do not stop with the environment. Many people enjoy saving money and time from not commuting. Plus, operating costs for the employer decrease with a lower need for office space. It can also be a recruiting tool for organizations to attract better talent.\n\nThe increasing acceptance by employers of working from home has opened the door for many who never would have thought that it would be allowed. Do not miss out!",summary:"Telecommuting significantly reduces climate pollution from transportation and saves you time. If your job allows it, start with small steps, like spending one day a week at home and establishing a daily routine for focus.",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@mimithian'>Mimi Thian</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recZVPu3WViNpSHZc",id:11,slug:"11-brush-teeth-with-the-water-off",title:"Brush teeth with the water off",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/11-brush-teeth-with-the-water-off",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec0ZIAF6JlOr5Elt","rec9bMIF9MNpyTKYl","recW81XXaCvlJ37GL"],tips:'⢠When you do use water, turn the tap to the cold side so you do not pull hot water from your tank or boiler to avoid wasted energy. The hot water <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/does-hot-water-kill-bacteria-1900379">is not nearly hot enough to kill bacteria</a>, so it is not helping with anything.',description:'Toothpaste, then water. Water, toothpaste, water. Water, toothpaste. Just toothpaste? No matter which of these is the order you prep before brushing, I hope we can agree on one thing. There is no need for the water to run once you start brushing!\n\nKeeping the water off while you brush adds up over time. That saves you water, which, in turn, will save you money! Assuming you brush your teeth twice a day, for roughly 2 minutes, turning the tap off while you are scrubbing away <a href="https://www.epa.gov/watersense/statistics-and-facts">can save up to a bucket of water in one day alone</a>. That adds up over a lifetime! It is an easy switch to save precious water and money!',summary:"Leaving the tap running while brushing wastes water and money. To save a little of both, turn off the tap during brushing.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@diana_pole'>Diana Polekhina</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recnMaCpxrFHVG2nH",id:12,slug:"12-save-with-food-waste-apps",title:"Save with food waste apps",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/12-save-with-food-waste-apps",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð² Conserve Forests","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth"],tips:'There are a couple of top food waste apps to check out.\n\n⢠<a href="https://olioex.com">Olio<a> - A platform for neighbors to share unwanted food and other items, all for free.\n\n⢠<a href="https://toogoodtogo.com/">Too Good To Go<a>
1 - Lists restaurants, cafes, and bakeries with leftover food that would otherwise be thrown away.\n\nTheir usefulness varies by area, so take a closer look to see if they are helpful for where you live.\n\nDo you know of other great food waste apps? If so, please reach out and let us know at [email protected]',description:'Food loss and waste account for <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/food-waste-emissions">a large amount of greenhouse gas emissions per year</a>. Reducing that waste could save us a lot of money and reduce climate pollution.\n\nSeveral apps help combat food waste by connecting people with other people, restaurants, and grocery stores with surplus meals and ingredients. Once registered, users can choose from their favorite local spots to pick up meals or ingredients for free or at a greatly reduced price. It is a win-win-win solution where people get great food, delicious surplus is not thrown away, and we help the planet by reducing waste together.\n\nTry out a food waste app today and see if it is useful!',summary:"Food waste contributes significantly to climate pollution. To combat this, try a food waste app like Olio or Too Good To Go, which connects surplus food with people and reduces waste.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jkakaroto">Jonas Kakaroto</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPDFHnGxxSr3yNO",id:13,slug:"13-take-train-or-bus-instead-of-plane",title:"Take train or bus instead of plane",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/13-take-train-or-bus-instead-of-plane",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recDfYn4gDQTTo9DG","recIuvyQzCo1UxgNF","rec8ncTnkhYvWjAMI"],tips:'We know that adopting a new behavior is challenging, especially when it is something you have been accustomed to. Here are some tips to support your journey. We are all in this together!\n\n⢠Depending on the distance, taking a train or bus might be faster and more relaxing than taking a plane. You avoid the hassle of airport security and the need to get to the airport extra early. Plus seats on trains and buses are generally larger and comfier.\n\n⢠It is often easier to get work done on a train or bus. Connecting to the internet is generally better. If you have an important reading or report to prepare, experiment working in this less distracted "office" environment.\n\n⢠Just like websites that search multiple airlines to find the best deals, the same type of websites exist for train and bus travel.\n\n⢠If you take a longer trip, you might surprise yourself with the benefits of the slower travel. Try taking a window seat and giving yourself permission to enjoy the beautiful scenery on the way: the natural landscape or the cities that you will pass by. This could be a stimulating period for self-reflection.\n\n⢠Of course, remember to bring your earplugs to avoid distracting noise.\n\nBe inspired by your fellow leaders who are adopting this new behavior and are helping catalyze systemic change:\n\no Experts think <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/german-swedish-flight-shame-train-environment/">the decline in domestic flights in Germany and Sweden</a> is due to growing awareness of the climate crisis.\n\no Professor Kimberly Nicholas of Lund University in Swede
1n <a href="https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/a-hard-look-in-the-climate-mirror/">is dedicated to reducing air travel</a>, as one of the actions that would have the greatest impact on an individualâs carbon footprint.\n\no Dr. Peter Kalmus, climate scientist, author, and a co-founder of the Earth Hero app, also started <a href="https://noflyclimatesci.org/about">the NoFlyClimateSci initiative</a>.',description:"The aviation sector is a growing contributor to global warming that is being caused by a relatively small number. Ninety percent of the worldâs population has never set foot on a plane. So, if you travel by plane, one of the most important actions you can take to address the climate emergency is to reduce your air travel.\n\nReducing air travel is even more important given forecasts that the sector will grow wildly unless the world wakes up to the danger. By 2050, air travel is on track to take up a quarter of the worldâs remaining carbon emissions budget (i.e. the amount of pollution we need to stay under to stabilize the temperature of the planet and guarantee our future prosperity).\n\nTaking a train or bus instead of a plane reduces your footprint, saves money, and also reduces air pollution. And, most importantly, your leadership sends a powerful message to others to reduce flying and lowers the incentive of airlines to fly more and more planes.",summary:"Air travel contributes significantly to global warming. You can make a difference by opting for trains or buses, saving money, reducing pollution, and inspiring others to follow suit.",additionalResources:"https://www.theccc.org.uk/publications/ \n\nhttps://www.imperial.ac.uk/media/imperial-college/research-centres-and-groups/icept/Behav-Change-report_10.10.19_Final-for-upload.pdf \n\nhttps://www.cnbc.com/2017/12/07/boeing-ceo-80-percent-of-people-never-flown-for-us-that-means-growth.html\n\nhttps://peterkalmus.net/books/read-by-chapter-being-the-change/being-the-change-chapter-10-slow-travel/\n\nhttps://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/german-swedish-flight-shame-train-environment/\n\nhttps://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/a-hard-look-in-the-climate-mirror/\n\nhttps://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/uploads/2018/02/ipcc_wg3_ar5_chapter8.pdf\n\nhttps://www.nytimes.com/2019/09/19/climate/air-travel-emissions.html\n\nhttps://doi.org/10.1088%2F1748-9326%2Faa7541",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jnezon">Josh Nezon</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0FST5nTADdD3xl",id:16,slug:"16-hire-electric-vehicles",title:"Hire electric vehicles",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/16-hire-electric-vehicles",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recunHK96lfzwXFJh","recUG8gaRDvPTCGkt","recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7"],tips:'⢠Select EV Options: When booking a ride through an app, look for an option to choose an electric vehicle. Some green ride options may include hybrids, so check the details if you want a fully electric ride.\n\n⢠Use EV-Focused Services: If your typical app does not have good options, consider <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=electric+vehice+ride+share+options">searching for a new option</a>. You might be surprised by what is available in your area.\n\n⢠Promote Your Choice: Share your EV experience with friends and family to
1show how easy it can be to choose cleaner transportation.',description:'Vehicle emissions include air pollutants that contribute to smog, haze, and health problems, as well as greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. Conventional gas vehicles with internal combustion engines produce emissions directly from their tailpipes, while <a href="https://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric-emissions">all-electric vehicles produce no direct emissions</a>. Charging an EV can still cause emissions at the power plant, depending on how the electricity is generated.\n\nTransportation produces <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/report/ar6/wg3/chapter/chapter-10/">around 20 percent of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions, with road vehicles accounting for almost all of that</a>. Because EVs eliminate tailpipe emissions, choosing one helps lower local air pollution. Even when accounting for the electricity used to charge the vehicle and emissions from manufacturing, <a href="https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-myths">EVs produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions over their lifetimes than comparable gasoline vehicles</a>. The climate benefit is greatest when the electricity comes from cleaner energy sources.\n\n<a href="https://afdc.energy.gov/vehicles/electric-fleets">EVs are quieter and often provide smoother acceleration</a>, which can make trips more comfortable. Plus they tend to be nicer and more modern vehicles. Choosing electric rides also increases demand for cleaner options, encouraging providers to expand their electric fleets over time.\n\nNaturally public transit or walking is even better, but when you hire a ride, make each ride count for the planet!',summary:"When using a rideshare, taxi, or car-sharing service, choose an all-electric vehicle when available. You will help reduce emissions, improve local air quality, and support cleaner transportation.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:'⢠<a href="https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/electric-vehicle-myths">U.S. Environmental Protection Agency: Electric Vehicle Myths</a>',amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Michael Marais via Unsplash.com"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec8ncTnkhYvWjAMI",id:19,slug:"19-vacation-closer-to-home",title:"Vacation closer to home",categories:["Travel & Transport","Family & Community"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/19-vacation-closer-to-home",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â³ Saves Time","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Household"],related:["rec5qybFlv6PdbOH7","recGRubQDmuSORM19","recBAF98XbIBO4pKe"],tips:'⢠Based on types of fuel, carbon pollution ranges from high to low as follows: cruise ships (incredibly polluting) > international flying > domestic flying > domestic single-person driving (unless it\'s in an EV) > carpooling > taking the train > staying local.\n\n⢠Ask friends and family for top holiday recommendations nearby.\n\n⢠Talk to your family about why you are choosing to stay more local, so they can feel good about it too.\n\n⢠Explore the quirky or overlooked gems in your own area. Check out <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/destinations">Atlas Obscura online</a> as a good place to get some ideas.',description:'Take holidays near your home town or in your home country. There are often amazing adventures nearby to experience. Plus you can save serious money and headaches from dealing with long-distance trips. Traveling far distances, especially by plane, is <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/plan-your-green-holiday-trip/">one of the biggest emitters contributors to a personal carbon footprint</a>.',summary:"Staying local for holidays saves major money and reduces the trip's carbon footprint. Discover hidden gems nearby that you have overlooked for memorable adventures.",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@freestocks'>freestocks.org</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recvHUxBuaqt0fZd6",id:20,slug:"20-drive-more-efficiently",title:"Drive more efficiently",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/20-drive-more-efficiently",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reca3ywXw2mlWcYEu","recDfYn4gDQTTo9DG","receSMtAziUd1n5kS","recP7iilSvDXUjmAe","recH5FOgvvzDnfyJH","recPrZlHalXTOWZPm","rechDxFQoa8J9NoB5","re
1cBAF98XbIBO4pKe"],tips:'⢠Drive smoothly â Avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Try to anticipate as far in advance as you can. Roll into stops instead of going full speed and stopping suddenly. On highways, use cruise control.\n\n⢠Remove excess weight â Avoid keeping unneeded objects in your vehicle. Especially heavy ones. It takes extra energy to lug around.\n\n⢠Switch off â Many modern vehicles shut down automatically when stationary. If yours does not, shut off your engine if you plan to remain still for a prolonged time. It avoids the nasty fumes from your engine building up around you.\n\n⢠Avoid traffic â Being stuck in traffic unnecessarily wastes fuel. If possible, avoid traffic jams. It helps with your sanity as well.\n\n⢠Avoid excessive speeds â The amount of fuel consumed <a href="https://www.nrcan.gc.ca/energy-efficiency/transportation-alternative-fuels/personal-vehicles/fuel-efficient-driving-techniques/21038">significantly increases at high speeds</a>.\n\n⢠Tire pressure â Check your tires at least once a month and before long trips because under-inflated tires use more fuel and can be unsafe.\n\n⢠Choose a fuel-efficient route â Use route planning apps to drive on the most efficient roads. Google Maps offers a feature that shows you the fuel-efficient route.\n\n⢠<a href="https://auto.howstuffworks.com/fuel-efficiency/hybrid-technology/driving-with-windows-down.htm">Windows versus air conditioning â It generally depends on how fast you are going</a>. Air conditioning is best on highways and at high speeds because of the drag created with the windows down. On the other hand, windows down are more efficient at lower speeds. Lastly, it is understandable that open windows are not always comfortable on extremely hot days.\n\n⢠Drive in two-wheel drive mode â If you have a vehicle with selectable four-wheel drive, use your car in two-wheel mode when road conditions make it safe to do so.',description:'Road vehicles such as cars, motorcycles, buses, and taxis are responsible for <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/co2-emissions-from-transport">a large portion of global emissions</a>.\n\nNo matter if your current car is relatively fuel-efficient or not, there are ways to save money and reduce pollution with the way you drive.\n\nEvery bit of oil saved directly reduces the impact on the climate, and <a href="https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/driveHabits.jsp">driving better could improve fuel efficiency by up to 40 percent</a>.',summary:"Road vehicles contribute significantly to global emissions. You can reduce pollution and save money by driving smoothly, maintaining tire pressure, removing excess weight, and choosing fuel-efficient routes.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/efficient-driving/\n\nhttps://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/driveHabits.jsp \n\nhttps://www.motortrend.com/how-to/17-ways-to-lighten-your-car/ ",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-manual-gear-stick-91152/'>Photo by Raduz</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reca3ywXw2mlWcYEu",id:28,slug:"28-stop-vehicle-idling",title:"Stop vehicle idling",categories:["Travel & Transport","Energy"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/28-stop-vehicle-idling",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec0FST5nTADdD3xl","recDfYn4gDQTTo9DG","receSMtAziUd1n5kS"],tips:"⢠Want to listen to the radio or use other vehicle functions while idle? Simply turn on your vehicle to run off the battery. No noxious fumes will come out and most accessories will still work.\n\n⢠Have an electric vehicle or high-efficiency engine that automatically shuts off when stationary? Then you are fine and not contributing to air pollution while idling.",description:'This one is simple. Switch off your vehicle when pulled over. It is an easy way to protect public health and immediately improve local air quality.\n\nThere is a <a href="https://idlingaction.london/about">surprising amount of pollution that comes out of vehicles while idling</a>. Engine idling contributes to <a href="https://www.rcplondon.ac.uk/projects/outputs/every-breath-we-take-lifelong-impact-air-pollution">asthma, heart disease and lung cancer</a> because of the pollution put into the air from burning gas. It can even <a href="https://youtu.be/TSLyVzSGkfY">stunt young lungs</a>.\n\nWhether you are stopped waiting for a friend to jump in or are outside a school for pick up, simply turn off your engine to keep the fumes from building around you. Had no idea? No big deal. Now you can move forward with this simple new habit.',summary:"Vehicle idling pollutes the air and harms public health. Switch off your engine when parked to reduce emissions, save a little money, and protect local air quality.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://idlingaction.london/'>Idling Action</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recoV0iHUiLDjE6eL",id:32,slug:"32-reduce-flying",title:"Reduce flying",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/32-reduce-flying",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recz6b55CqENByHz8","recXRDYJ77QmpdFqv","recMPiEBUMrPCPhoe"],tips:'⢠Does that meeting really need to happen in person, or could you have it by video? If you are not in charge of deciding how meetings occur, try explaining how much time and money is saved by eliminating or reducing in-person meetings.\n\n⢠Have you explored vacation options closer to home that do not require a flight? There are usually amazing things nearby that we never took the time to explore and appreciate.\n\n⢠Explore alternative forms of transportation for your trip. Trains and buses are naturally the best option if it is realistic.\n\n⢠If you must fly, opt for economy class as the <a href="https://climateactionaccelerator.org/solutions/economy_class_tickets_only/">flying business class emits about much more carbon than economy because the seats take up more room</a>.\n\n⢠Consider taking a Flying Fast. For example, choosing not to fly during specific holidays, seasons, or religious occasions.\n\n⢠You can also offset the climate pollution from any flights you take. However, be wary about the different carbon offset options since many of them are ineffective at reducing carbon and should be considered greenwashing. Skipping flying is the only sure way to reduce climate pollution until the airline industry adopts sustainable practices.',description:'<a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/08/1-in-7-people-would-choose-not-to-fly-because-of-climate-change/">Join with millions of others who are avoiding flying</a> when they can to avoid our only planet from over-heating.\n\nWe have all heard that flying is one of the worst forms of transportation for the environment. But how much worse is
1it actually? \n\nIf you are traveling solo, a domestic flight is <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint">45% more polluting than driving the same distance in a fossil fuel-burning car</a>. The negative impact of flying is even higher if the alternative is an electric car. Flying looks comparatively even worse if you are traveling with others. Best of all is taking a train or bus. Flying is almost 10 times more polluting. \n\nIn addition to climate pollution from burning jet fuel, <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/nclimate1068">planes also leave behind contrails in the atmosphere, which are little particles of water and soot that contribute to global heating</a>. These artificial clouds act like a blanket, <a href="https://e360.yale.edu/features/how-airplane-contrails-are-helping-make-the-planet-warmer">trapping heat in the atmosphere</a>.\n\nEven if you cannot completely cut flying out of your life, consider ways to cut back where possible until petroleum-based fuel is replaced with a sustainable alternative. For frequent flyers, it is usually the biggest personal action you can take to reduce your climate pollution. Keep in mind that <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2017/12/07/boeing-ceo-80-percent-of-people-never-flown-for-us-that-means-growth.html">80 percent of people in the world have never taken a flight in their life.</a>',summary:"Flying is the most polluting form of transportation. To mitigate this, cut back on flights where possible, explore closer vacation options, and use alternative transportation.",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@documerica">Documerica</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/kMTcszTACDg">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recbRnuBMhxBRRS0U",id:36,slug:"36-make-climate-your-career",title:"Make climate your career",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:100,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/36-make-climate-your-career",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recH4sucMi58sV4GR","rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q","receSMtAziUd1n5kS"],tips:'⢠A place to start is to learn more about the wide range of industries and careers related to addressing climate change. Search online and check out lists of different green jobs to consider <a href="https://www.careeronestop.org/GreenCareers/ExploreGreenCareers/explore-green-careers.aspx">like this great one</a> that breaks down over 200 options across various sectors.\n\n⢠Ready to get more serious? Explore actual job opportunities at climate-focused organizations. Take a look at <a href="https://climatebase.org/">Climatebase</a>, which is a platform that focuses on discovering jobs, people, and organizations working to solve the climate crisis.\n\n⢠Climatebase also has a <a href="https://climatebase.org/people">large community of people</a> that you can search by roles, skills, and sectors to connect with and learn more about a particular area you might be interested in.\n\n⢠If you want to supercharge your transition into a climate-focused career, you may also want to consider applying to the Climatebase Fellowship. The Fellowship is an online climate career accelerator for the most talented mission-driven members of the Climatebase community.\n\n⢠If there is no clear fit for your skills and experiences, you can still make a transition. Once you have a good idea of the type of jobs you might like to target, you can build a plan to make yourself more attractive to hiring managers. For example, think about the skills you already have that translate and the gaps you need to fill over time to be ready to sell yourself as a good fit. There is lots of information online with tips, such as this <a href="https://www.thebalancecareers.com/tips-for-a-successful-mid-career-change-4083208">article</a> and this <a href="https://www.ziprecruiter.com/blog/how-to-change-careers/">other one</a>.',description:"Addressing climate change by phasing out fossil fuels, ramping up clean energy and food, keeping pollution out of the air, and adapting to an over-heating planet is a massive project. It touches so many aspects of our lives. Why not transform your work life to be a part of the solution?\n\nGreen jobs are booming. They are broadly defined as producing goods or providing services that benef
1it the environment, conserve natural resources, or make production more environmentally friendly. Many industries are moving humanity towards more sustainable practices. That includes electricity generation, food and agriculture, transportation, construction, technology, advocacy, media, politics, research, and education.\n\nMaking a career shift is not easy, but the demand is there, and the feeling that you are working on something meaningful is incredibly motivating. Does your current job give you that feeling? Explore options, see what interests you, and go from there. You may not make the move tomorrow, but consider beginning to find a path for yourself and a better future.",summary:"Transitioning to a green career is impactful and fulfilling. Explore climate-focused industries and job opportunities to align your work with a meaningful endeavor to create a better future.",additionalResources:"https://climatebase.org/\nhttps://workonclimate.org/\nhttps://www.climatechangejobs.co.uk/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@thisisengineering'>ThisisEngineering RAEng</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recOPWK3qjbAS1gak",id:40,slug:"40-eat-less-meat-and-seafood",title:"Eat less meat and seafood",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/40-eat-less-meat-and-seafood",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recvV7yUxSJvciNX7","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","rec7QX86vX50K9tgc","recpKMlPlKT86K55r","recDC5bUmbwqeR24a","recEEFEm5JXFOAIsF","recWbQpvZhWH7Uyij","recNI7BYRh1VeqwjT","recJdIfA2i2gx05Gp","recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","recARmCmeiWmdpmW1"],tips:"⢠Take your time to switch, as rushing could cause you to give up too soon. This is a marathon, not a sprint. Better habits are built slowly over time.\n\n⢠Pick certain days of the week to avoid eating meat. Yay Meatless Mondays! On other days consider decreasing your portion size towards a healthier approach.\n\n⢠Learn a few tasty vegetarian recipes to provide good alternatives. Have fun with this exploration. If you do not like something new, well now you know and can move on to something else.\n\n⢠Try diverse cuisines from other countries. Many food cultures around the world are based on vegetarian dishes.\n\n⢠As you switch away from meat, you will slowly notice that you begin to pick up the previously subtle, wonderful flavors in vegetables more.\n\n⢠Cooking plant-based food is usually easier and there are no health issues from undercooking.",description:'Cut down on your weekly meat and seafood consumption to quickly and significantly reduce emissions, especially if you eat red meat. Scientific studies suggest <a href="https://doi.org/10.1038/s43016-021-00358-x">eating less meat and seafood is one of the biggest things you can do to reduce your personal emissions</a>.\n\nGradually changing our habits together over time can have a big impact on a healthier and more sustainable planet. Plus it leads <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/meatless-meals/art-20048193">to better health and even saves some money</a>!\n\nRaising animals to eat is very inefficient. <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/global-land-for-agriculture">There is more land under cultivation to feed animals than there is to directly feed humans</a>. This wasteful land use leads to forests and other natural landscapes being cleared for farmland. That releases pollution into the air, plus there are the emissions generated by the animals themselves.',summary:"Reducing meat and seafood intake significantly cuts personal emissions and benefits your health. Transition gradually, explore fun new plant-based food, and adopt habits like Meatless Mondays to contribute to a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photography-of-pasta-with-tomato-and-basil-1279330/'>Photo by Lisa Fotios</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recleaoHS8GMdkjAP",id:41,slug:"41-eat-less-dairy",title:"Eat less dairy",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/41-eat-less-dairy",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recOPWK3qjbAS1gak","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","rec94TOaTxmFwOwrJ"],tips:'⢠Be patient with yourself. Transitioning away from dairy can initially be a challenge. You might face cravings or social pressure, but always remember your motivations and take pride in your progress. You can also seek support from others who are on the same journey.\n\n⢠Dairy consumption is likely ingrained in your daily habits. Therefore, think about how to reduce it in specific situations. For instance, consider substituting cow milk with plant milk, cow butter with plant butter, or cow yogurt with plant yogurt. Look for dairy-free alternatives to your favorite foods, such as pizza or chocolate.\n\n⢠Fortunately, the options for plant-based dairy alternatives have never been better. Embrace the opportunity to experiment with new products to find ones that suit your taste. This exploration is part of the fun.\n\n⢠Venture into the world of dairy-free cheeses, crafted from ingredients like nuts, seeds, tofu, and more. Different brands offer varying textures, some more melty and stretchy than others. You might need to sample a few before finding your preferred choice.\n\n⢠Savor the taste of dairy-free ice cream, a delightful way to satisfy your sweet tooth without any dairy. Many options are available, including those based on coconut, almond, soy, oat, or cashew.\n\n⢠Give nutritional yeast a try. This flaky, yellow powder imparts a cheesy flavor and can be sprinkled on pasta, popcorn, salads, or soups for an added flavor boost. <a href="https://coolmomeats.com/2017/01/12/tips-for-how-to-eliminate-dairy/">Nutritional yeast is also a good source of protein, fiber, and B vitamins</a>
1.',description:'Dairy farming has existed since at least the 6th millennium BC as part of unspecialized, subsistence farming practices. More recently, however, the practice of large-scale, specialized dairy farming has taken off. There are around <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/263979/global-cattle-population-since-1990/">one billion cows worldwide</a>. This growth has coincided with a rise in atmospheric greenhouse gas concentrations, which is no coincidence. On its current scale, the dairy industry has serious implications for the global climate, not to mention the well-being of cows.\n\nThe impact of dairy is <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/co2-emissions">greater than the combined climate pollution of aviation and shipping</a>, which are two industries that are synonymous with climate change. Dairy alone today is <a href="https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20201208-climate-change-can-dairy-farming-become-sustainable">more than the total global emissions for the year 1898</a>.\n\nCud-chewing animals like cows generate methane, a greenhouse gas
1significantly more potent than carbon dioxide, during digestion. Additionally, their manure, when decomposing, releases both methane and nitrous oxide, another potent greenhouse gas. Dairy farming is resource-intensive, requiring substantial amounts of land, water, and other resources. This leads to a cascade of environmental issues, including deforestation, water contamination, and biodiversity loss.\n\nThere are also compelling health reasons to consider reducing your intake. Dairy products are a significant source of saturated fats. This can lead to an elevated risk of heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and even Alzheimerâs disease. Dairy consumption has also been associated with the exacerbation of acne in both teenagers and adults. Furthermore, research has indicated that consuming dairy may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. (<a href="https://www.pcrm.org/good-nutrition/nutrition-information/health-concerns-about-dairy">Source</a>). There is also evidence that the global trend of <a href="https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/28/8/2265/660150">declining male fertility may be partially related to an increase in dairy consumption</a>!\n\nConsider reducing your dairy intake for the sake of our over-heating planet and to lead a better life.',summary:"Large-scale dairy farming contributes significantly to climate change and health issues. Explore plant-based alternatives and discover new dairy-free options to reduce climate pollution and improve your health.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@stijntestrake">Stijn te Strake</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/UdhpcfImQ9Y">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recc6wYUKC44pNrUb",id:44,slug:"44-100-percent-plant-based-diet",title:"100 percent plant-based diet",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:100,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/44-100-percent-plant-based-diet",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recOPWK3qjbAS1gak","recleaoHS8GMdkjAP","recpKMlPlKT86K55r"],tips:'⢠Fasten your belts and embark on a fascinating new sensory pathway that will nourish your soul as much as your taste buds.\n\n⢠It is easier than ever to go vegan. Grains, beans and vegetables are rich in protein and iron. Green leafy vegetables, beans, lentils, tofu and nuts are excellent sources of calcium. Regular intake of vitamin B-12 is important, either from fortified foods or supplements.\n\nHow to start? Here is a five-step suggestion:\n\n1) Think of three vegetarian meals that you already enjoy. Common ones are tofu and vegetable stir-fry, vegetable stew, or pasta dishes.\n\n2) Think of three recipes you prepare regularly that can be adapted. For example, a favorite chili recipe can be made replacing meat with beans. Enjoy bean burritos, veggie burgers instead of hamburgers, grilled eggplant and roasted red peppers instead of grilled chicken in sandwiches. Many soups, stews and casseroles can be made with simple changes.\n\n3) Check out some veggie cookbooks and experiment with recipes until you find three new ones that are easy to make and delicious.\n\n4) For breakfast, try muffins with fruit spread or cereals with rice, oat or almond milk. Sandwiches with spreads like hummus or white bean paté with lemon and garlic, pasta salads or dinner leftovers make great lunches.\n\n5) From burgers to butter, there is now an incredible array of genuinely delicious vegan substitutes in your supermarket.\n\n⢠It takes about three weeks to break or create a habit. Give it a try, enjoy and have fun!\n\nFurther additional resources:\n\n⢠Vegan Outreach offers the <a href="https://veganoutreach.org/10weeks-all/">10 Weeks to Vegan program</a> designed to help people in 40+ countries to try a plant-based diet. They also <a href="https://veganoutreach.org/vegan-mentorship-program/">match participants with local vegan mentors</a>.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.forkranger.com/">Fork Ranger</a> is a climate-friendly eating app that is beautifully designed and packed with knowledge and delicious recipes.\n\nDelicious Vegan Eating\no <a href="https://www.happycow.net">Happy Cow</a>\no <a href="https://www.forksoverknives.com">Forks Over Knives</a>\no <a href="https://www.ohsheglows.com">Oh She Glows</a>\no <a href="https://www.thebuddhistchef.com">The Buddhist Chef</a>\no <a href="https://www.vrg.org/recipes">The Vegetarian Resource Group</a>\n\nFree vegan mentoring:\no <a href="https://kickstart.pcrm.org">Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM)</a>\no <a href="https://challenge22.com">Challenge 22</a>',description:"There is global scientific consensus: making the transition to a plant-based diet, such as whole grains, seeds and nuts, legumes (beans, peas, lentils, soy derivatives), fruits and vegetables, is one of the most effective ways you can slow climate change, reign in habitat loss, and regenerate the health of our planet.\n\nIt also improves your own physical well-being, by preventing and treating certain diseases. Plus, it prevents animals from being tortured by factory farming practices. As another bonus, meat tends to be more expensive, so you end up saving money!\n\nYour dietary choices can contribute to food availability and security, which is critical due to expected global population growth. Replacing all animal-based items with plant-based alternatives will add enough food to feed double the humans alive today!\n\nThis is because the feed-to-food conversion efficie
1ncy of animal protein is minuscule. It takes a lot of land and food to feed to livestock. Therefore, the average caloric efficiencies of dairy, beef, poultry, pork, and eggs are only 7%. This means 93% of calories are lost in the process!\n\nAccording to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, well-planned 100% plant-based diets are appropriate for pregnancy, lactation, infancy, childhood, adolescence, older adulthood, and athletes: in other words, everyone. In fact, many world-class athletes such as Lewis Hamilton (Formula 1 pilot), Venus Williams (tennis player), and Nimai Delgado (bodybuilder) eat a 100% plant-based diet. As plant-based bodybuilders say, a bull never eats meat, and look how strong it is.",summary:"Choosing a plant-based diet benefits health, animals, and our climate. Adapt familiar recipes, explore fun new plant-based foods, and discover great ideas and support online for delicious, climate-friendly meals.",additionalResources:"A. CLARK, Michael; SPRINGMANN, Marco; TILMAN, David. Multiple health and environmental impacts of foods. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, v. 116, n. 46, p. 23357â23362, 23357-23362. Available at: https://www.pnas.org/content/pnas/early/2019/10/22/1906908116.full.pdf. Accessed on: 29 Oct. 2019.\n\nCRAIG, Winston; MELINA, Vesanto; LEVIN, Susan. Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Vegetarian Diets. Faculty Publications, v. 116, n. 12, p. 1970â1980, 2016. Available at: https://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/pubs/648.\n\nIPCC, 2019: Summary for Policymakers. In: Climate Change and Land: an IPCC special report on climate change, desertification, land degradation, sustainable land management, food security, and greenhouse gas fluxes in terrestrial ecosystems [P.R. Shukla, J. Skea, E. Calvo Buendia, V. Masson-Delmotte, H.- O. Pörtner, D. C. Roberts, P. Zhai, R. Slade, S. Connors, R. van Diemen, M. Ferrat, E. Haughey, S. Luz, S. Neogi, M. Pathak, J. Petzold, J. Portugal Pereira, P. Vyas, E. Huntley, K. Kissick, M. Belkacemi, J. Malley, (eds.)]. In press Available at: https://www.ipcc.ch/2019/08/08/land-is-a-critical-resource_srccl/.\n\nPHYSICIANS COMMITTEE FOR RESPONSIBLE MEDICINE (PCRM). Vegetarian Starter Kit. [s.l.: s.n., s.d.]. Available at: https://p.widencdn.net/jyeygh/16037-NTR-Updated-Vegetarian-Starter-Kit-English-2. Accessed on 8 Dec. 2019.\n\nSHEPON, A; ESHEL, G; NOOR, E; et al. Energy and protein feed-to-food conversion efficiencies in the US and potential food security gains from dietary changes. Environmental Research Letters, v. 11, n. 10, p. 105002, 2016. Available at : https://stacks.iop.org/1748-9326/11/i=10/a=105002?key=crossref.78b6d366c3251c510973fc46bff6eb28. Accessed on 7 dec. 2019.\n\nSHEPON, Alon; ESHEL, Gidon; NOOR, Elad; et al. The opportunity cost of animal-based diets exceeds all food losses. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, v. 115, n. 15, p. 3804â3809, 2018. Available at: https://www.pnas.org/lookup/doi/10.1073/pnas.1713820115. Accessed on 7 dec. 2019.\n\nWILLETT, Walter; ROCKSTRÃM, Johan; LOKEN, Brent; et al. Food in the Anthropocene: the EATâLancet Commission on healthy diets from sustainable food systems. The Lancet, v. 393, n. 10170, p. 447â492, 2019. DisponÃvel em: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140673618317884. Acesso em: 7 dez. 2019. The EAT-Lancet Commission, co-chaired by Walter Willett (Harvard) and Johan Rockström (Stockholm Resilience Center), brought together 19 C
1ommissioners and 18 co-authors from 16 countries in various fields including human health, agriculture, political science and environmental sustainability to provide advice on a planetary diet.",amountSavings:"$$"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ",id:46,slug:"46-reduce-food-waste",title:"Reduce food waste",categories:["Food","Home & Work","Family & Community"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/46-reduce-food-waste",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð² Conserve Forests","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household","Friends & Family"],related:["rec8TAB2jKGtamrqB","recvV7yUxSJvciNX7","recSPX0Ec9NaZl9Tz","recOUCdYR6E1h0zi0"],tips:'⢠Shop wisely by planning meals, using lists, purchasing accurate quantities, and reducing impulse buys. This includes holiday meals.\n\n⢠Prepare appropriate amounts of food and get good containers to make it easy to save leftovers and keep them fresh.\n\n⢠Eating leftovers save you time from preparing something new.\n\n⢠Make it easier to find leftovers in your refrigerator and freezer by keeping them in the front. Having less food in your fridge helps ensure items do not get lost in the back.\n\n⢠Do not be fooled by date labels. Date labels on food are generally not regulated and are not meant to indicate food safety. The food is likely fine after the date label unless the words âuse byâ appear before the date. Use your nose and judgment.\n\n⢠Share dishes at restaurants or take home the extras. Have containers on hand for giving dinner guests leftovers. Often times when eating out, portions are much larger than a typical meal.\n\n⢠Share extra food with family, friends, neighbors or use the app <a href="https://olioex.com/">Olio</a> to give away unwanted food or meals.',description:'Reduce your personal food waste to save precious resources and money. Food that ends up getting thrown away means wasted water, land, and energy used in production and transportation.\n\nA <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/grapher/food-waste-per-capita?country=OWID_WRL~GBR~NGA~BHR~JPN~USA">massive amount of food is wasted per person each year</a>. That adds up to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/money/2022/jan/22/food-waste-are-you-throwing-your-money-in-the-bin">some serious money thrown in the bin</a>.\n\nIf we minimize food waste as a society, we would take the equivalent of half a billion cars off the road. Be a part of that movement!',summary:"Food waste squanders resources and money, impacting both our environment and personal finances. Reduce waste by planning meals, storing leftovers properly, and sharing excess food with others.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@organicdesignco'>Megan Thomas</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec8TAB2jKGtamrqB",id:47,slug:"47-start-composting",title:"Start composting",categories:["Food","Outside","Home & Work"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/47-start-composting",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","recDB77jTpJma7kye","recukRmfuJCRHpuk2"],tips:"⢠Start simple. Find a nearby small plot of dirt, start to pile up organic material, and natural decomposition will take care of the rest.\n\n⢠You can improve how you manage your compost as you gain more experience, but do not let the side range of detailed suggestions online prevent you from getting started.\n\n⢠If you do not have a plot of dirt for your compost pile then consider a compost bin. You can set it up either inside or outside. Search online to get ideas for a setup that works for you. Ideally you can convert a container you already have or find something used.\n\n⢠What can be composted? Pretty much anything that was living at one point (i.e. organic). Vegetable scraps, tree leaves, banana peels, c
1ardboard, pet waste, paper towels, garden trimmings, and food scraps are a few examples. There are some composters that suggest certain organic materials do not compost well. Experiment and decide what works best for you.\n\n⢠It is helpful to have a container with a lid in the kitchen to throw organics in for later transport to your composting area. An old ice bucket or plastic container are a couple of options that can work well.\n\n⢠Concerned about how your compost pile will look or if it attracts animals? Simply add some dirt or leaves on top to help it blend in with the surrounding area.\n\n⢠Here a few tips to speed up how fast your organic material is magically transformed into nutrient-rich soil. None of these are necessary to do, but they help speed up the process.\n\n- Stir up the pile once a week to allow more oxygen in. A shovel or pitchfork are good tools for this.\n\n- Roughly balance two parts brown to one part green. Dry materials, such as leaves and cardboard, are considered brown. Wetter materials, such as food waste, are considered green.\n\n- Search online for additional ideas and tips. Try some things out and find out what works for you. This is not about perfection. It is about making progress.",description:"Composting is an easy way to recycle organic materials you would otherwise throw away. Natural processes do most of the work and give you nutrient-rich soil for your garden and plants.\n\nIt also saves energy hauling extra garbage to the dump, prevents ever-expanding landfills from overflowing, and reduces methane emissions because of anaerobic decomposition conditions at a garbage dump.",summary:"Composting recycles organic waste, reducing landfill overflow and methane emissions. Start with simple methods like piling organic material or using a compost bin to contribute to a greener world and to give you free nutrient-rich soil!",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@gabimirandan'>Gabi Miranda</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEiikEEUBTihacw",id:49,slug:"49-use-a-refillable-water-bottle",title:"Use a refillable water bottle",categories:["Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/49-use-a-refillable-water-bottle",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recHetdi9Xa5tibbt","recW9KaitubY5oJNq"],tips:"⢠If you do not have a water bottle to use now, you can start by reusing a sturdy disposable one.\n\n⢠There is a huge selection of used water bottle options to buy online if you do not already have one around.\n\n⢠If you like having cold water, leave your water bottle in the fridge overnight to chill.\n\n⢠Some water bottles or thermoses can be disassembled, which makes them easier to clean.",description:'Commit to avoiding single-use bottled water and bring your own water bottle with you.\n\nSingle-use plastics are made from oil and will litter the land and seas for longer than your lifetime. They decompose slowly and very little of it ends up getting recycled, even if you throw your bottle into a recycling bin. Most bottled water comes from the same source as tap water and costs 2,000 times the price.\n\nPlus while bottled water is generally safe it is not always free of contaminants. Research has shown that <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17707454/">plastic can leach a compound known to cause dizziness and depression</a>. In an analysis of plastic baby bottles, sippy cups and water bottles another study found that almost all commercially available plastic products <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3222987/">leached chemicals having reliably-detectable estrogenic activity that can lead to endocrine disruption</a>, which is associated with higher rates of certain cancers, obesity, learning disabilities and behavioral changes.',summary:"Plastic water bottles are a major source of pollution and are easy to avoid. Bring your own refillable water bottle to save money and reduce plastic pollution.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@houstonmax'>Houston Max</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recvV7yUxSJvciNX7",id:56,slug:"56-buy-from-regenerative-farms",title:"Buy from regenerative farms",categories:["Food","Resilience"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/56-buy-from-regenerative-farms",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Flooding","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","re
1cM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recmgafGKQi06LzJd","recOPWK3qjbAS1gak","recpl5zBbWVtyhKqX"],tips:'⢠Find a farm near you here to buy from. A good starting place is the <a href="https://regenerationinternational.org/regenerative-farm-map">Regeneration International map</a>. You can search generally or specifically by the type of foods you are interested in.\n\n⢠There are gaps in the map coverage, so you may need to dig a little deeper to find good options in your area. Asking around your area or searching online can hopefully fill the gap. If you do find a good spot, consider getting it added to the Regeneration International map.\n\n⢠The tricky part of buying from a regenerative farm is the convenience, depending on how close you are and the timing of what is in season. Check out websites, sign up for farm newsletters, and ask if they take part in local markets or sell to stores in your area.\n\n⢠Give it a try, figure out what works for you transportation-wise (hopefully not by burning up a lot of pollution to get there), and over time, figure out how to bring more sustainable food into your diet.',description:'Regenerative agriculture is a holistic land management practice that leverages the power of photosynthesis in plants to close the carbon cycle, build soil health, crop resilience, and nutrient density. Besides being a more sustainable and low-pollution approach, the best part of buying from regenerative farms is the food is generally fresher and tastes better!\n\nConventional wisdom has long held that the world cannot be fed without chemicals and synthetic fertilizers (made from oil). However, science is pointing to a better approach. The world can only be fed if the soil is fed. Regenerative agriculture enhances and sustains the health of the soil by restoring its carbon content, which in turn improves productivity.\n\nDue to traditional farming techniques, it is estimated that <a href="https://www.drawdown.org/solutions/regenerative-annual-cropping">at least 50 percent</a> of the carbon in the soil of our flying space rock home has been released into the atmosphere where it does no good. Bringing that carbon back home through regenerative agriculture is one of the greatest opportunities to address human and climate health and farmers\' financial well-being.\n\nRegenerative agricultural practices include:\n\n1) No tillage â no loss of carbon into the air and burning of fossil fuels to work the land.\n\n2) Diverse cover crops â sucks carbon into the soil.\n\n3) No pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and multiple crop rotations â avoids products derived from oil and chemicals leaking into the land.\n\nThis helps vital microbes proliferate, roots to go deeper, improve nutrient uptake, pest-resistant plants, and increase soil fertility. All that means better-tasting and more nutritious food for you!\n\nAnd the good news is that public pressure is starting to sway companies to adopt more regenerative practices for their products. According to <a href="https://happyeconews.com/nescafe-unveils-1-billion-regenerative-coffee-farming-plan/">this article</a>, Nescafé is moving towards ensuring half of its coffee is produced regeneratively by 2030. Not perfect, but a move in the right direction.',summary:"Regenerative agriculture improves soil health, combats climate change, and offers tastier, more nutritious food. Find nearby regenerative farms and support sustainable practices for a healthier planet and diet!",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@peterwendt'>Peter Wendt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEEFEm5JXFOAIsF",id:57,slug:"57-be-wary-of-palm-oil",title:"Be wary of palm oil",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/57-be-wary-of-palm-oil",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ðï¸ System Change","ð² Conserve Forests","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Community & Institutions"],related:["recpKMlPlKT86K55r","recOPWK3qjbAS1gak","recmSnnBrMlFslV0N","recNoj1VvCXoq2MTQ","recoULx3YHKoSHJgY","recOUCdYR6E1h0zi0","reczRPxh5ZiYJ8aLy"],tips:'⢠Start by checking labels for palm oil. Either avoid products that use it or ensure that it is sustainably produced <a href="https://www.rspo.org/about">(RSPO-certified)</a>, depending on your comfort level. Palm oil is in many products, so you may be surprised once you start looking.\n\n⢠Avoiding palm oil is unfortunately difficult and some products hide their use of palm oil to make more money by <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/sneaky-names-palm-oil-4858743">using other names for it</a>, such as Elaeis guineensis, Glyceryl, or derivatives of the word palm, such as Palmate.\n\n⢠Check the companies that are more or less supportive of sustainable palm oil, and shop accordingly. This <a href="https://palmoilscorecard.panda.org/#/home">WWF scorecard</a> is one good way to do that.\n\n⢠Speak to friends and relatives about the impacts of palm oil, your concern about rainforest destruction, and what it means for climate change.',description:'What is palm oil, and why does it matter? Palm oil from palm kernel (fruit of a specific palm tree) is involved in the production of <a href="https://www.wwf.org.uk/updates/8-things-know-about-palm-oil">a huge number of packaged consumer goods we take for granted</a>. This includes foods like bread, ice cream, and chocolate; cosmetics and personal hygiene products, such as shampoo, make-up, and soap; and cleaning products like household detergent. Its <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/palm-oil">production has quadrupled since the turn of the millennium</a>.\n\nThe problem is that the palm industry is causing massive amounts of forest to be cut down for new plantations, which in turn is helping to overheat our planet as the carbon from them gets released into the atmosphere. For example, palm oil is to blame for almost <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-palmoil-deforestation-study-idUKKBN1W41HD">40 percent of forest loss in Borneo</a>. This also leads to the decline of many species, including the orangutan, pygmy elep
1hant, and Sumatran rhino.\n\nSo what to do? Some organizations support only buying sustainable palm oil, which has been <a href="https://www.rspo.org/about">RSPO-certified</a>. The logic is that because palm oil is so efficient, not using it would cause more land usage for other types of vegetable oils that are less efficient to grow.\n\nOthers are <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/aotearoa/story/5-problems-with-sustainable-palm-oil/">skeptical that palm oil can ever be sustainable</a> as deforestation continues. They choose to avoid it as much as possible. Be aware of the harm that palm oil is causing and figure out the approach that makes the most sense to you.',summary:"Palm oil, widely used in everyday products, contributes to deforestation and species loss. To mitigate its harmful effects, check product labels, educate others, and support companies committed to ethical sourcing or skip products that use it.",additionalResources:"https://ourworldindata.org/palm-oil\n\nhttps://www.ucsusa.org/sites/default/files/legacy/assets/documents/global_warming/palm-oil-and-global-warming.pdf\n\nhttps://www.ran.org/issue/the-businesses-driving-deforestation/\n\nhttps://www.ethicalconsumer.org/palm-oil/palm-oil-free-list \n\nhttps://www.palmoilfreecertification.org/alternate-names-for-palm-oil",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/aerial-photo-of-truck-carrying-timber-3374066/'>Photo by Pok Rie</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJRkmoJucB7BPpR",id:69,slug:"69-turn-down-the-air-conditioning",title:"Turn down the air conditioning",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/69-turn-down-the-air-conditioning",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recVDsMK3snsbzdVl","recbxKKTMMNP2Co8y","recSdN0wktQ7MdDdZ"],tips:"⢠Adjust the thermostat a degree or two higher to get started and see what works best for you.\n\n⢠Keep your house cool by opening up all the windows at night and then closing them again in the morning when things start to heat up. Keeping the blinds closed on the sunny side of the house helps as well.\n\n⢠Have a fan going in occupied rooms. The moving air helps people feel cooler even though it does not actually change the temperature.\n\n⢠If you have a basement or other cooler part of your home, spend time there during the hottest parts of the day.\n\n⢠Make sure to clean the filter on your air conditioning unit regularly so that it is working efficiently.",description:"Turning down the air conditioning (by turning up the temperature on the thermostat) by even a few degrees can be an easy way to reduce your energy use and save money. Plus keeping the temperature indoors closer to the outdoor temperature helps your body better adjust to the season.",summary:"Turning down air conditioning conserves energy and saves money. Adjust the thermostat slightly higher, use fans, open windows at night, and clean AC filters regularly to improve energy efficiency and stay comfortable.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@ms_k61">Kira Porotikova</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recbxKKTMMNP2Co8y",id:74,slug:"74-extra-clothes-and-turn-heat-down",title:"Extra clothes and turn heat down",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/74-extra-clothes-and-turn-heat-down",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l","recM9OqoQ8AJmaLRA","recwunY3FjFoDttdh"],tips:"⢠Adjust your thermostat a degree or two lower to get started and see what works best for you.\n\n⢠Enjoy the sensation of comfort! Wear your favorite bulky sweater or fluffy robe with your favorite fuzzy socks or comfy slippers. Or just wrap yourself in a big blanket.\n\n⢠Drink some hot chocolate or your favorite tea!\n\n⢠Hold your cat sitting on your lap or your dog next to you. Pet gerbils w
1on't do, I'm afraid. :-)\n\n⢠Close your curtains at night and close the door to your room to help keep the heat in.\n\n⢠Move your favorite chair away from drafty windows during winter.\n\n⢠Consider heated clothing if you are going to significantly reduce your thermostat. A rechargeable electric battery powers a cozy heat field around your body.",description:"Instead of heating your entire home, why not create your personal heat bubble with an extra layer of clothes? Delaying turning the heat on as long as you can. Once on, keeping the heat at a lower temperature saves you money and prevents climate pollution emissions.",summary:"Heating your home more than necessary wastes energy and money. Try wearing extra layers, enjoying hot drinks, and using heated clothing to stay cozy while keeping the thermostat lower, saving both money and climate pollution.",additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/2019/11/10/fuzzy-socks/\n\n",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/blur-close-up-coffee-coffee-cup-236699/'>
1Photo by Pixabay</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"receM25YsJntdHIrH",id:77,slug:"77-use-rechargeable-batteries",title:"Use rechargeable batteries",categories:["Home & Work","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/77-use-rechargeable-batteries",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recUG8gaRDvPTCGkt","recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7","recBAF98XbIBO4pKe"],tips:"⢠So how do you recharge batteries? A solar or electric recharger. There are a wide range of solutions for different needs. Check out the options online.\n\n⢠There are chargers for different battery sizes and even chargers that work with multiple battery types. Start with the batteries you use most.\n\n⢠A good trigger to remind yourself to make the switch and buy rechargeables is when you get to the point that you almost run out of throw-away batteries and need new ones.\n\n⢠If you go with an ultra fast charger (one that claims to charge in one hour or less) be aware that they typically do not fully charge the batteries. Fast chargers tend to lack the ability to top off at full charge.\n\n⢠Worried about running out of batteries that are charged and ready to go when you need them? Buy a few extra to have in reserve. They hold their charge well over time, only losing about a tenth of it each month.\n\n⢠Get into the habit of putting low charge batteries right into the charger to power up when you swap in new ones. Store your batteries in waiting near where you charge batteries to help keep everything together and tidy.\n\n⢠Buying a complete system for someone you care about is a nice gift idea.",description:"For many of the toys and electronics that we use, wasteful alkaline batteries still rule. Global alkaline battery production exceeds 20 billion units, with almost all of those ending up in a landfill after only a single charge.\n\nSadly, most batteries collected through household battery collection programs are disposed of in hazardous waste landfills. Even stores that have established take-back programs admit that it often ends up in the trash. Batteries contain polluting metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, and nickel, which can leak into the surrounding environment and water table. Plus when incinerated, these metals can get released into the air.\n\nA simple way to create a better world is to use rechargeable batteries for portable electronics. Smaller battery sizes for these types of devices make up 84 percent of all alkaline battery sales. These can be easily replaced with rechargeable versions that can be used for up to 500 charges. Rechargeable battery technology has come a long way!\n\nWhile rechargeable batteries are more expensive upfront, they will save you a ton of money in the long term. The average cost of a non-rechargeable battery is about a third of a rechargeable one. After the third recharge of a battery, you are saving money and preventing waste. Kids or no kids, this will save you major money over your lifetime, plus the time to continuously buy new batteries.",summary:"Using wasteful throw-away batteries harms the environment, with billions ending up in landfills every year where they leak chemicals into the ground. Switch to rechargeable batteries to save money, prevent waste, and reduce pollution.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://guides.library.illinois.edu/battery-recycling",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/black-and-yellow-battery-on-white-surface-6015271/'>Photo by mohamed abdelghaffar</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt",id:78,slug:"78-switch-electricity-to-clean-energy",title:"Switch electricity to clean energy",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:75,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/78-switch-electricity-to-clean-energy",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","rechoZzsqhYc8BcS9","recJpcNfCyOls5968"],tips:"⢠A quick internet search should give you a few options of renewable energy suppliers in your area. If you are not sure how it works, give them a call. Clean energy suppliers would love to have you as a customer.\n\n⢠Once you are happy with your supplier, recommend them to others to expand your action's impact.\n\n⢠After your home is powered by clean energy it allows you to start transitioning other parts of your life to clean energy. For example, heating your home electrically instead of with dirty natural gas or using electric vehicles.\n\n⢠If clean energy is not available in your area, be sure to let your local politicians know y
1ou would like it as an option. Polluting electric companies often try to block competition from cleaner sources.",description:'Exercise consumer power and choose an energy supplier from a 100% clean source. They are often very price-competitive and are a direct shift away from fossil fuels. This is something your local electricity company does not want you to know because they do not want to lose you as a customer. Unfortunately, that often means that the default option you are using is quite polluting. Luckily, many regions now provide the option for clean energy choices.\n\nThis is important because <a href="https://happyeconews.com/clean-energy-has-a-tipping-point-and-87-countries-have-reached-it/">a country only needs to reach about 5 percent of its energy from clean sources before it hits a tipping point</a>, where wide-spread adoption of a technology begins.',summary:"Your default energy supplier is likely using polluting fossil fuels, but you may be able to exercise consumer power by switching to 100% clean energy sources. Search online for renewable energy suppliers in your area.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@karsten_wuerth'>Karsten Würth</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recndxU3Vak9jKnRC",id:79,slug:"79-get-rooftop-solar",title:"Get rooftop solar",categories:["Energy","Home & Work","Resilience"],earthPoints:100,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/79-get-rooftop-solar",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","recwySEBARXXihsNS"],tips:"⢠If you have friends who have already installed rooftop solar talk to them about their experience. If not, you can ask questions in online forums or learn more from reading articles online.\n\n⢠Most experts advise to buy the system outright, instead of leasing, but leasing is a viable option if upfront costs are an issue.\n\n⢠Talk to at least a couple of vendors to get a sense of what makes the most sense for, but most importantly take that first step and reach out to at least one to get started!\n\n⢠If your roof will need replacing within a few years, you might need to take care of that first. The solar companies will look at your roof when they come out the first time, and may request a roofing company to inspect it.\n\n⢠Depending on your circumstance, simply switching your electricity supplier to a 100% renewable option might be a simpler option. See the Action related to this in the app for more details.",description:"A great way to reduce the pollution created from your electricity, signal to your neighbors the importance of clean energy, and even save money in the long run!\n\nBuying rooftop solar panels has an upfront cost, but pays for itself typically after less than ten years. That could possibly end up being much less, depending on how much sun your roof gets, and the subsidies (credits and rebates) available in your country and region. After this payback period, you get free energy.\n\nA second option is to rent your rooftop to solar companies. If it is available in your area, you will get free electricity, and they get to sell the extra.\n\nIf you buy, the energy payback time (the time it takes for solar panels to eliminate the same amount of emissions it took to make them) is about three years.",summary:"Installing rooftop solar panels reduces climate pollution, signals environmental responsibility, and offers long-term savings. Consult friends, research online, and engage with solar companies to explore installation options.",additionalResources:"https://cleantechnica.com/2018/03/25/solar-power-energy-payback-time-now-super-short/\n\nhttps://www.renewableenergymagazine.com/pv_solar/european-payback-times-for-solar-power-fell-20190221",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@vivintsolar'>Vivint Solar</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"}
1,{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V",id:80,slug:"80-change-light-bulbs-to-leds",title:"Change light bulbs to LEDs",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/80-change-light-bulbs-to-leds",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recm4H5TLXQFiuCue","rechoZzsqhYc8BcS9","recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recKFKY0izr0abNfO"],tips:"⢠LED (light emitting diode) bulbs now come in cool and warm colors, in all shapes and sizes, and have dimmable options. You can customize your lighting however you prefer!\n\n⢠It is better to wait to replace your incandescent bulbs with LEDs as they burn out. Try not to waste something that is already been manufactured. Most new things are created using polluting energy.\n\n⢠LED bulbs are much cooler than most other bulbs, especially halogen bulbs, and thus present less of a fire and burn hazard.\n\n⢠Lighting accounts for about 20% of annual household electricity bills so switching to more efficient LEDs adds up to meaningful savings over time.",description:"Take a big energy efficiency step and change your light bulbs to LEDs as they go out. Collectively we save huge amounts of energy and pollution by doing this.\n\nLEDs also last longer so that saves time from buying and changing them. Plus they save money from lower energy costs and because they last longer! A typical incandescent bulb will glow for about 1,000 hours while LEDs hang in there for 25,000 hours or more.",summary:"Switching to LED light bulbs saves energy and money while reducing pollution. LEDs also last much longer, which saves time buying and changing bulbs!",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@joelhenry'>Joel Henry</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recm4H5TLXQFiuCue",id:83,slug:"83-turn-lights-off-when-not-in-use",title:"Turn lights off when not in use",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/83-turn-lights-off-when-not-in-use",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recm13a7ez0HxrP8T","rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V","recSyql2ZISp498Tl"],tips:"⢠Turning lights off is especially impactful if they are the older technology incandescent or halogen lights. These are the least efficient and most costly to operate.\n\n⢠Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFLs) have less of an impact when left on, but you can still save if you will be out of a room for 15 minutes.\n\n⢠Light Emitting Diodes (LED) bulbs are the most efficient, so the energy savings are less. Every little bit helps, but it is not worth too much worry for LEDs.\n\n⢠If your electricity is powered by clean energy, there is still a benefit to using less of it. It saves you money and it reduces the burden for the wider electrical grid, which makes it easier to power more homes with clean energy.",description:"This is a simple one you likely already know. Simply turn off lights when you leave a room or do not need them. It saves electricity, reduces pollution from energy generation, and lowers your expenses.\n\nThere are extra bonuses as well. It extends the life of your bulbs, so you buy new ones less often. Plus, it slightly reduces the temperature in your home on hot days.",summary:"Turning off lights when not in use saves a little electricity, pollution, and expense.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-light-switch-on-white-painted-wall-3650908/'>Photo by Castorly Stock </a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recP6wEASx41TK628",id:86,slug:"86-air-dry-clothes-after-washing",title:"Air-dry clothes after washing",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/86-air-dry-clothes-after-washing",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recewRkjpusV1t5eZ","recAB13YQPWm2hiCD","re
1cPuuLDqN9b9CBWt"],tips:"⢠Wash clothes on dry, sunny days to help speed up drying.\n\n⢠Use a rack inside during bleaker weather.\n\n⢠The impact is the greatest if your electricity is powered by polluting sources.\n\n⢠Proudly fly the laundry flag for your neighbors to see!",description:"Choose air-drying instead of tumble-drying your clothes and make good carbon savings, especially if your energy source for drying is polluting. Hang it on a line outside or a rack inside as often as you can to also save some money on your energy costs.\n\nPlus, no one likes it when clothes develop holes or unravel after lots of laundry cycles. Air-drying helps keep the wear and tear down so your clothes last longer. On top of that, a <a href='https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2022/01/220112093953.htm'>single dryer can discharge up to 120 million microfibers annually</a>, which is considerably more than from washing machines. These fibers can be irritants if ingested or inhaled, and they are not great if they make their way into our water and soil.",summary:"Tumble-drying clothes consumes energy and can release harmful microfibers. Opt for air-drying outside on sunny days or indoors on racks to save energy, extend clothing lifespan, and reduce environmental impact.",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@photomanu'>Manu B</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"}
1,{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recE66VzDeZUXjBgw",id:89,slug:"89-sweep-more-vacuum-less",title:"Sweep more, vacuum less",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/89-sweep-more-vacuum-less",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð³ Save Money","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution","ð Save Energy"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recW1Q1WS1mEO7n6R","rec17VfEqUZwBlY4m","reccmnCnR2XTBL2MK","rec9NuBsJpj08rNUg","rec26ToRO9VSC5XF8"],tips:'⢠Believe it or not, there are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+sweep+a+floor">websites for the best techniques to sweep a floor</a>. You just might pick up a couple of ideas to improve your approach.\n\n⢠If a vacuum is a better tool for a particular job then go for it. This action is simply about considering sweeping a little more than you might have otherwise.',description:"When those crumbs spill onto the floor or dirt gets tracked inside, it can be oh-so-tempting to whip out the vacuum and clean up that mess. However, sweeping can accomplish the same task without eating up energy and save a little money.\n\nThe act of sweeping isn't just for old-time's sake. The physical act of cleaning is relaxing. Tidying up your home can help you feel better and <a href=\"https://www.forbes.com/health/mind/mental-health-clean-home/\">can improve your mental health</a>. And for some of us, the whirring of the vacuum may not have the same mind-quieting ability that traditional cleaning methods can.",summary:"Using a vacuum to clean floors unnecessarily consumes energy. Instead, consider opting for sweeping, which achieves the same result while saving energy and potentially improving your well-being.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/waiter-sweeping-the-floor-4921525/'>Photo by RODNAE Productions</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recewRkjpusV1t5eZ",id:92,slug:"92-wash-clothes-on-cold-cycle",title:"Wash clothes on cold cycle",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/92-wash-clothes-on-cold-cycle",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rech5oVyO1fHAvb4F","recP6wEASx41TK628","rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l"],tips:"⢠With cold water you can wash larger loads of more mixed colors without concern for the white ones - thus saving water and sorting effort!",description:'You might have heard that hot water washes best, but times change. New detergent technology uses enzymes that actually work better in cold water. Plus cold water is <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/case-washing-clothes-cold-water-180955459/">gentler on your clothes</a> and can protect them from fading, shrinking, or color bleeding.\n\nPlus you save money from unnecessary water heating. Hot water heating accounts for <a href="https://coldwatersaves.org/">about 90 percent of the energy your machine uses to wash clothes</a>. Only 10 percent goes to electricity used by the washer motor!',summary:"Washing laundry using hot water is a waste of energy and money. Using cold water for laundry is gentler on clothes, saves energy, and better preserves colors.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-woman-standing-inside-the-laundromat-2927523'>Photo by Darya Sannikova</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rech5oVyO1fHAvb4F",id:93,slug:"93-boil-only-the-water-you-need",title:"Boil only the water you need",categories:["Home & Work","Food","Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/93-boil-only-the-water-you-need",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","â³ Saves Time","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recNuDrDy018jBFLD","recoUE5rJ4tmtAPCa"],tips:"⢠This action is easy. Simply, fill the mug/cup/container you want to use with cold water and then pour into your kettle to get exactly the right amount.\n\n⢠When you pour the boiled water back into the cup y
1ou have got the perfect amount so you do not need to worry about over-filling!\n\n⢠Boiling water on an electric stove is the most efficient, followed by a microwave, and then methane (natural gas). That is especially true if your electricity is powered by clean energy because natural gas is always more polluting than clean electricity.",description:"When you are making a cup of coffee, tea, or other hot item, only boil the amount of water you actually need. This will save time, use less energy, and save water. It also saves you money. Boiling too much water costs households millions in unnecessarily high energy bills.",summary:"You can save time and energy by boiling only the amount of water needed by filling your cup first with water and then pouring it into the kettle.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/stove-versus-microwave-energy-use/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-pouring-with-a-kettle-6801194/'>Photo by Artem Podrez</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recKFKY0izr0abNfO",id:94,slug:"94-unplug-vampire-electronics",title:"Unplug vampire electronics",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/94-unplug-vampire-electronics",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec7OJQlq23vKevfr","recm4H5TLXQFiuCue","recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt"],tips:"Identify the likely vampires in your home. Look for devices that have remotes (devices waiting to be turned on), charge batteries, have a continuous LED display or have an external power supply.\n\nOnce you have identified the energy drains, here are five tips to reduce their impact:\n\n1) Start replacing power strips with advanced power strips. They stop electronics from drawing power when they are off or not being used.\n\n2) Unplug rarely used devices.\n\n3) When a device is fully charged, unplug it. Leaving a phone or laptop plugged in after it is fully charged can reduce the life of the battery as well.\n\n4) Adjust your computers and monitors to automatically power down to the lowest power mode when not in use.\n\n5) Buy energy-efficient electronics and appliances. Include this in your buying criteria to lower the size of the idle drain.\n\nWill you always have some vampires sucking energy for the sake of convenience? Sure, that is likely. Do the best you can and save yourself some money while you are at it.",description:"Are you paying for energy that you are not using? Up to 20% of your electricity expenses go towards so-called Vampire Electronics. These are devices that consume electricity in standby mode, even when they are off. Some consume nearly as much energy as when they are turned on. The worst culprits are computers, televisions, modems, routers, surround sound systems and cable or satellite boxes.",summary:"Vampire electronics silently drain up to 20% of your electricity, even when turned off. Identify and unplug them, replace power strips, adjust computer settings, and prioritize energy-efficient purchases to save money and reduce climate pollution.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@daniele71043'>Daniele Colucci</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recW1Q1WS1mEO7n6R",id:98,slug:"98-let-your-hair-air-dry",title:"Let your hair air dry",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:3,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/98-let-your-hair-air-dry",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","â³ Saves Time","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recP6wEASx41TK628","recFxribe0VxlgGUt","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi"],tips:"⢠Use your towel to wring the water out as much as possible from your hair. This will get you most of the way.\n\n⢠If you still want to blow dry your hair sometimes, then throw in an air dry every now and then to
1save time, money, and to give your strands a breather. It will give you a chance to experiment and see what works well for you and keeps your hair looking good!",description:'Save time and energy by letting your hair air dry! Blow dryers cost money and you spend even more when they are pulling electricity. Plus, they also have that plastic shell (made of fossil fuels) and require some chemicals and pollution to create, whether or not they wind up in the landfill. So, how about trying to phase out your blow-dryer usage so you do not need to buy a new one anytime soon?\n\nLetting your hair air-dry also protects it from potential heat damage. Plus, straightening or curling it with a curling iron, etc., means even more potential damage over time. These heat sources can cause your hair to lose moisture, negatively impacting its look. Plus, once your hair strands are dehydrated, it is likely <a href="https://hairstylecamp.com/heat-damaged-hair-symptoms/">they will break more frequently and with more ease</a>.\n\nSo, do you really need a hairdryer? Or do you want to go au naturel?',summary:"Air-drying your hair protects it from heat damage and dehydration, saving you time and money while reducing the environmental impact of using extra energy.",additionalResources:"https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/air-dry-hair#benefits-of-air-drying",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@luxgraves'>Lux Graves</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmvIjgQ3iqzMb1U",id:103,slug:"103-put-a-climate-sign-in-your-yard",title:"Put a climate sign in your yard",categories:["Home & Work","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/103-put-a-climate-sign-in-your-yard",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Community & Institutions"],related:["recgAIYLMYILEa71O"],tips:'⢠Choose a Visible Location: Place your sign where pedestrians and people passing by can easily read it, without blocking sidewalks or sightlines. If you do not have a yard, a window is a great option.\n\n⢠Make or Find a Sign: Create your own sign and reuse materials when possible. <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=climate+change+slogans">Search online for a slogan</a> or message that resonates with you.\n\n⢠Keep It Fresh: Change or rotate your sign from time to time so people continue to notice it. One study of interpretive signs found that <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/109258721101600205">first-time visitors scored higher on a knowledge assessment than repeat visitors</a>, suggesting familiar signs may receive less attention.\n\n⢠Secure It: Anchor the sign firmly so it will not blow away or be pulled out easily.\n\n⢠Want to think bigger? Climate messages can go almost anywhere, including T-shirts, climate-stripe leggings, coffee mugs, and even <a href="https://www.zazzle.com/climate_crisis_warming_stripes_earrings-256090819936042400">earrings</a>.',description:'Communication helps keep climate change part of everyday life and can gradually shift our culture. A yard or window sign can share a climate message with people in your neighborhood, or with many more people if it faces a busy street or is displayed at a workplace.\n\nThe choices people see around them can influence their own through a process called <a href="https://business.cornell.edu/news/2020/02/05/under-the-influence-positive-social-change/">behavioral contagion</a>. For example, <a href="https://environment.yale.edu/gillingham/BollingerGillingham_PeerEffectsSolar.pdf">research has found that new solar installations increase the likelihood of additional installations nearby</a>. Randomized field experiments have also found that <a href="https://isps.yale.edu/resource/the-effects-of-lawn-signs-on-vote-outcomes-results-from-four-randomized-field-experiments">political lawn signs can increase a candidateâs vote share</a>. A climate sign makes your concern visible and may encourage neighbors to share their own messages.\n\nLet your yard or window do some talking! Choose a message, put your climate values on display, spark conversations, and help climate action spread through your community, one sign at a time.',summary:"Display a climate sign in your yard or window to start conversations, encourage action, and help build a culture that supports climate solutions.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/landscape-banner-architecture-tree-2058779/'>Photo by Markus Spiske</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reck7Bqng8lcnoN73",id:104,slug:"104-foster-at-home-climate-discussions",title:"Foster at-home climate discussions",categories:["Family & Community","Home & Work","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/104-foster-at-home-climate-discussions",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household","Friends & Family"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","re
1cre35xh9DIOrpT0"],tips:'⢠Begin by acknowledging that changing someone\'s views on climate change takes time. Focus on initiating the conversation rather than expecting immediate agreement or change in perspective.\n\n⢠Find someone you trust, whether at home or elsewhere, to discuss your concerns and goals before and after talking to family about climate change. Their support can help you overcome challenges and stay motivated.\n\n⢠Pick a quiet, small setting to discuss climate. Only have a few participants. Avoid crowded or tense situations where the conversation might not be well received. Perhaps bring up the conversation in a casual way to not make it seem like a big deal.\n\n⢠Start by understanding their perspective. Ask open-ended questions like "What are your thoughts on climate change?" and refrain from debating. Let them express their views without interruption. It is important to start these conversations with <a href="https://chatelaine.com/living/how-to-talk-about-climate-change/">mutual respect and a focus on what genuinely connects us.</a> \n\n⢠Share personal stories and emotions related to climate change. Explain why it matters to you and how it impacts your community or loved ones. Encourage others to share their own experiences and feelings.\n\n⢠You may see the urgency and need to phase out carbon pollution and deforestation faster to address climate change, but others around you likely are earlier on their journey of realizing there is a problem and it is one we can do something about. Be patient. This is a marathon, not a sprint. That is just the nature of most human beings.\n\nHere are a couple of helpful articles to learn more about effective ways to chat with your family and neighbors.\n\n- <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-talk-to-your-family-and-friends-about-the-new-ipcc-report-five-tips-from-climate-change-communication-research-202306">How to talk to your family - Five tips from climate change communication research</a>\n\n- <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org.uk/news/how-to-talk-about-climate-change-family-friends-conversation/">How to talk about climate change with friends and family</a>',description:'Engaging in climate change discussions at home is more than just a simple chat. It is a catalyst for cutting carbon emissions and strengthening community bonds. By discussing climate issues with family, friends, and neighbors at home, you both inspire eco-friendly habits and create a space for reflection and action. Climate action begins at home!\n\nDespite the scale of the problem, climate conversations are often avoided due to misconceptions about others\' concerns, fear of political debates, and lack of confidence in personal knowledge. Overcoming these barriers takes courage, but the efforts have great ripple effects as discussions move outside the home to involve more friends, family, and even neighbors. \n\nThe only investment here is a bit of your time and energy to kick off these discussions, and maybe some food, but the long-term rewards are absolutely worth it! By fostering open dialogue and encouraging proactive steps, you can contribute to wider climate action in your household and neighborhood. You can help create a supportive community focused on sustainability.\n\nKids can influence their families too! When children initiate climate change discussions at home, it not only empowers them with knowledge but also fosters a sense of responsibility and action. According to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41558-019-0463-3">a study</a>, when children learn and talk about climate change they can significantly increase their parents\' concerns about the issue and encourage meaningful conversations at home. Younger people, like activist <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/children-change-their-parents-minds-about-climate-change/">Greta Thunberg, have also shown that their voices can influence their parents\' attitudes</a> and inspire action within families. And keep in mind that a "kid" may be a teenager or a forty-year-old. Parents almost always continue to see their offspring as "kids". :-)\n\nGo ahead and start the discussionâit could clear the way to a healthier planet!',summary:"Climate conversations are often avoided due to misconceptions and fear of debate. Break the silence by discussing climate issues at home with family, friends, and neighbors to inspire eco-friendly habits and foster a sustainable family or community.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://climategen.org/take-action/take-action-in-your-home-school-or-community/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://www.pexels.com/@julia-m-cameron/">Julia M Cameron</a>on <a href="https://www.pexels.com/">Pexels</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recfEgvPc4Fi15tdO",id:105,slug:"105-join-a-green-team-at-work",title:"Join a green team at work",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/105-join-a-green-team-at-work",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð Save Energy","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q","recJpcNfCyOls5968"],tips:'⢠When you first join up it is often best to listen and learn. Get a sense of how the group operates, what projects it works on, and what have been successful initiatives. Figure out something small you can work on as a good start spot to dip your toes in. Then you can build and grow from there.\n\nDepending on how far along the green team is at your work, the following are some potential project options to consider:\n\n⢠Select a range of size for projects - from small and manageable for your colleagues to do (e.g., reduce single-use throw-away item usage, bring in electronics for recycling), to larger ones for your workplace as a whole (e.g., get an energy audit, or divest from fossil fuels).\n\n⢠Developing a greenhouse gas inventory is a good step toward measuring and managing your organization\'s climate change impact. An inventory is a list of emission sources and the associated emissions quantified using standardized methods. Many organizations are taking this step and by doing so find that most of their emissions come from building heating and cooling, fleet vehicles, electricity use, and employee travel. Search <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=resources+to+help+organizations+identify+and+achieve+cost-effective+greenhouse+gas+emission+reductions">online</a> or ask AI for ideas to help organizations identify and achieve cost-effective greenhouse gas emission reductions.\n\n⢠For-profit companies prioritize projects that increase revenue or reduce costs, making senior management more likely to approve green initiatives with clear financial benefits. Cost-saving measures like energy efficie
1ncy upgrades, waste reduction, or water conservation directly impact the bottom line. Additionally, projects that enhance brand reputation and attract eco-conscious customers can boost revenue. Employee engagement and retention are generally seen positively as well. Keep this in mind when pitching your projects to senior leaders if you work at a for-profit organization.\n\n⢠One way to help promote change would be creating a quarterly newsletter, with potential climate steps people can take, even how-to\'s at home, and talk about green project successes within the organization.\n\n⢠Reach out to local not-for-profits and join their version of a clean-up day.\n\n⢠Recruit others in your workplace to join and support the green team. More hands make for lighter work.\n\n⢠As goals are achieved, make sure you get the correct amount of internal/external recognition (such as via press releases). That will hopefully build momentum for more progress.\n\n⢠If your company does not have a "green team", then perhaps your leadership is needed to create one. See the "Create a green team at work" Action for ideas to get started.',description:"Does your company have a green team? Ask around, see what you can find, and take the first simple job of joining up. Might as well give it a try and see how it goes. And if it does not work well for you, no worries. \n\nJoining a green team at work offers both personal and professional advantages. It allows you to contribute to environmental sustainability by supporting initiatives that reduce waste, conserve energy, and promote eco-friendly practices on a larger scale. This not only benefits our planet but also helps the organization lower operational costs through resource efficiency. Additionally, green teams often foster a positive workplace culture, encouraging collaboration and shared responsibility among employees.\n\nOn a personal level, participating in a green team can help you develop valuable skills like leadership, project management, and problem-solving while expanding your professional network across different departments. It also increases your visibility within the company. For those passionate about sustainability, joining a green team offers a meaningful way to align personal values with professional goals, contributing to a stronger sense of fulfillment at work.",summary:"Consider joining your organization's green team to support sustainability, reduce waste, and cut costs. It builds skills, expands your network, and boosts visibility. If it is not the right fit, no worries. Just give it a try and see how it goes.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:'<a href="https://expertteamname.com/green-team-names/">500+ Creative Green Team Names</a>\n\n<a href="https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/business-operation-growth/green-your-business/live-green-work/green-teams/">\nGreen Teams Tips</a>',amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@shanerounce'>Shane Rounce</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q",id:106,slug:"106-create-a-green-team-at-work",title:"Create a green team at work",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/106-create-a-green-team-at-work",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð² Conserve Forests"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recJpcNfCyOls5968","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recre35xh9DIOrpT0","recfEgvPc4Fi15tdO"],tips:'Here are some ideas to get started:\n\n⢠Start with your manager. Naturally, it is important to get their approval. They may also have ideas of how to begin the journey, how to implement, and how a green team fits in with the goals of your organization.\n\n⢠Now it is time to recruit. Many hands make lighter work. Get the word out, set up an initial meeting, and start to form your team. Try to get influential people and action-oriented people involved if possible. Set a regular meeting cadence to help make progress and keep the initiative top of mind.\n\n⢠Start small and focus on things that are quick-win improvements. This initial progress will help build the team atmosphere and momentum.\n\n⢠Some ideas to start are limiting the use of disposable products, increasing recycling, and using large or refillable containers for lunchroom items (salt, sugar, etc.) instead of individual packets.\n\n⢠Some ideas to start are limiting the use of disposable products, increasing recycling, using large or refillable containers for lunchroom items (salt, sugar, etc.) instead of individual packetsâ, putt
1ing cartoons, memes, and educational jokes in shared areas, ensuring extra food from events does not go to waste, and implementing ideas to use less paper.\n\n⢠Over time, this can evolve into more complex improvements like installing LED bulbs, putting electronics in energy-saving modes, figuring out how lights stay off in rooms not in use, slightly adjusting building temperatures to waste less energy, and using more energy-efficient tools and electronics. More and more ideas will likely come up on your journey.\n\n⢠You will likely need to pitch your ideas to leaders to get approval and support. Keep in mind that the fundamentals of almost all organizations come down to increasing revenue and keeping costs low to either make more money (for-profit) or ensure ongoing viability (non-profit). If your ideas are tied to growing revenue or decreasing costs in some manner, you will have a higher likelihood of success. Especially if you can quantify the impact.\n\n⢠Once you have established your team and started to have positive impacts, dare to dream big. How can we phase in only using clean energy? How might we use only sustainable, long-lasting materials? How do we become a net-zero organization or even go to negative emissions? It will take time to implement, so start to lay the groundwork for meaningful change over time.\n\n⢠For further inspiration, there are lots of superb ideas to be <a href=\\"https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+start+a+green+team+at+work\\">found online</a>.\n\n⢠This <a href="https://www.toronto.ca/business-economy/business-operation-growth/green-your-business/live-green-work/green-teams/">guide goes into more detail</a> to help you work through your situation.',description:"The workplace is often a critically neglected area when it comes to sustainability. It takes time and thought energy to create change. Luckily you already understand your workplace and are well suited to be an agent of progress!\n\nForm a green team to raise awareness of ways to save energy, reduce pollution, and build a better work environment. Have fun with it and make your workplace more enjoyable in the process.",summary:"Transform your workplace into a sustainable hub by forming a green team. Recruit members and focus on quick-win improvements at first to build momentum and work up to larger projects.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@rgaleria">Ricardo Gomez Angel</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l",id:108,slug:"108-turn-down-your-water-heater",title:"Turn down your water heater",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/108-turn-down-your-water-heater",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec6zH93O6ZLwF1hX","recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA","reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","recanFEh19omYoHd5"],tips:'⢠How low should you go? When you take a shower, turn your hot water all the way on with no cold water. If it is too hot, then your heater may be turned up too high. Adjust your water heater temperature down so if you only use hot water for a shower, it is a nice, relaxing feeling.\n\n⢠Be careful not to turn down your water heater too much, especially if there are individuals who have a weakened immune system or your hot water does not circulate often. The longer water sits in a system and having lukewarm water temperatures can cause naturally occurring Legionella bacteria to multiply to dangerous levels. There is a risk of Legionellosis, which is contracted by inhaling small droplets of contaminated water through mist or vapor.\n\n⢠How do you adjust your temperature? An easy way to figure it out is to <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+turn+down+a+water+heater">search online</a> for videos about how to do it. Find a video that has a water heater that looks similar to yours. Alternatively, you can look at the instruction booklet for your water heater or ask someone handy who would likely know and can help.\n\n⢠There is no evidence that using hot water out of the tap has any benefit in killing bacteria. For <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/energy/2013/12/131213-washing-hands-hot-water-wastes-energy-health/">washing hands</a> or <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/water-temperature-for-washing-dishes-22967565">washing dishes</a>, cold water reduces bacteria as well as hot water. Plus, using overly hot water is damaging to our skin.',description:"This is a simple adju
1stment that saves you money and the worry of getting burned by scalding water. Many water heaters have a control for how hot water is heated and factory defaults are often hotter than necessary. Simply turn down the temperature to stop wasting energy. Give it a try and enjoy the benefits.",summary:"Lower your water heater's temperature until the water feels comfortably warm to save money and prevent scalding. Consult online tutorials or ask someone handy for assistance in adjusting the temperature.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/photos/8Hwo-w-5VfU'>Tina Dawson</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH",id:110,slug:"110-buy-mostly-used-stuff",title:"Buy mostly used stuff",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/110-buy-mostly-used-stuff",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ System Change","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recFMQm0ybM0M0RVj","recFxribe0VxlgGUt","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f"],tips:"⢠It is understandable that you cannot buy used items in all circumstances. The idea is to do so when you can. That typically means you get higher quality at a lower price!\n\n⢠We live in the golden age of used items. Never before in human history has it been so easy to buy from a wide range of recycled items. Online platforms offer a wide selection of options at the tip of your fingers.\n\n⢠There are great options for buying used items from across the country (wider selection) or locally (easy pick-up, especially for larger items). Search online and talk to friends to get a sense of the most robust online marketplaces in your area.\n\n⢠Electronics, toys, furniture, books, clothing, games, presents, tools, and home decor are a taste of the high-quality items you can find used. Many new items are made with flimsier materials than they used to be, so this often means you get a higher quality item when buying something a little older.\n\n⢠Search for freecycle websites in your area. These platforms are made up of people giving and getting stuff for free in their own towns and neighborhoods. It is all about reuse and keeping good stuff out of landfills.\n\n⢠Traditional second-hand shops, thrift stores, yard sales, and antique stores still make for great treasure-hunting adventures as well. There are even online versions to check out.\n\n⢠Challenge yourself to NOT buy anything new for one week. Then two. Eventually, it becomes a habit and your bank account will thank you.",description:"Join the movement to buy used durable products when possible.\n\nIt not only will save you money but also increase the resale value of our used goods, fighting against the throw-away mentality. Help short-circuit the scraping away and overheating of the planet, while building a more sustainable economy.\n\nCreating something new requires mining land to dig up materials, cutting down trees, processing raw resources, construction of the item, packaging, and transporting all of that around the globe. That consumes a lot of energy, which often comes from polluting sources. It also takes a toll on virgin lands and pumps considerable emissions into the air.",summary:"Opt for used durable products to save money and combat the throw-away mentality. Explore online platforms, local markets, and freecycle websites for a wide range of quality items to reduce pollution from creating new stuff and landfill waste.",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@johnschno'>John Schnobrich</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recGE7U7h2uaMkPW6",id:111,slug:"111-install-low-flush-toilets",title:"Install low flush toilets",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/111-install-low-flush-toilets",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","reconMHOliIsRFff2","reci2p0vOh6SFplRG"],tips:'⢠Not sure if your toilet is already low flush? The liters per flush is usually marked somewhere on it. Typically, either inside the top of the tank when you take the lid off or on the bottom outside the toilet near the floor. If the liters are around five, then you are already good to go!\n\n⢠Most municipalities charge you twice for your water usage. Once for using it and once for the sewage it creates. However, they only measure it on the way in! Lower how much comes in, and
1you save money on both ends.\n\n⢠When looking for a new toilet, look for certification for being water-friendly. Also, many good stores will make it easy to figure out the liters per flush of different options.\n\n⢠Search online for <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=best+low+flow+toilet">reviews of different low-flow toilet options</a> to figure out what fits your style and gets the job done.\n\n⢠Never installed a toilet before? It is a moderately easy project if you consider yourself somewhat handy. There are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+install+a+toilet+video"> step-by-step online videos</a> to walk you through it. If not, recruit a friend, family member, or hire a professional.',description:"How much water do you flush down the toilet each year? That depends on the toilet, but on average, each of us flushes four or five times per day, which is over a thousand times a year. Traditional toilets use roughly 13 liters per flush, so that adds up to over 20,000 liters per year per person. That is huge!\n\nLuckily, modern, low-flush, high-efficiency or dual-flush toilets have been invented and can lower the average flush to five liters without impacting performance. Now, that is science and engineering in action!\n\nWhy does water usage matter? In areas with abundant water, it is easy to take the water cycle for granted, even though it is more complicated than it seems. There are many stages of collection, treatment, conveyance, distribution, end-use preparation, reconditioning, and release. Each step consumes energy and produces waste. By lowering your water usage, you decrease the demand you put on the entire system and reduce the effects on the environment. Plus, it saves precious resources, which is particularly important where water is less plentiful.\n\nAlso, water will become even more valuable with the predicted heat waves coming to many regions due to climate change. It is better to start protecting it now than scrambling to acquire it later. And by reducing your flow, more water stays in the rivers and lakes, supporting other animals and plants who also need it.",summary:"Traditional toilets waste a huge amount of water annually, straining water sources and treatment plants. Upgrade to low-flush toilets to protect this precious resource and reduce the energy needed to manage it.",additionalResources:"http://www.mwra.com/publications/ulftoilets.pdf \n\nhttps://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/7/3/034034 \n\nhttps://www.hunker.com/13400906/what-is-the-difference-between-american-european-toilets\n",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by fran hogan on Unsplash - Not online any more so cannot credit"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0ZIAF6JlOr5Elt",id:114,slug:"114-water-your-lawn-less",title:"Water your lawn less",categories:["Outside","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/114-water-your-lawn-less",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","â³ Saves Time","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec9bMIF9MNpyTKYl","reclM0oag7cCzpyYZ"],tips:'⢠A good rain takes care of giving your lawn a nice deep soak. If it has been a couple of weeks since the last big rain, then a longer sustained watering may be in order.\n\n⢠Depending on where you live, you may actually find that rarely watering your lawn creates a better-looking and healthier lawn in the longer term. Well-established plants with deeper roots help crowd out weeds and promote an overall stronger mini ecosystem.\n\n⢠Watering in the morning is best. The air is cooler and there will be less evaporation. Alternatively, you can water in the evening to minimize evaporation. However, if you water too frequently in the evening it promotes the development of fungus and attracts insects if the water is not fully absorbed into the soil.\n\n⢠When watering, do not leave a sprinkler or hose unattended to avoid over-watering. Also, check and fix leaks in the watering system to maintain efficie
1ncy.\n\n⢠Cut the grass on as high a setting as possible. This lowers water loss from evaporation, allows for more surface area for photosynthesis to support healthier plants, blocks weeds from getting a foothold, and tends to look more lush.\n\n⢠All the water you use from a faucet has been processed to ensure drinking quality, and this process requires energy and decontamination chemicals like chlorine. Using less water helps save energy and reduces the use of chemicals.\n\n⢠Watering on a near-daily basis is actually detrimental to your lawn. Too much water can be just as damaging to plants as too little water. Excessive irrigation will cause disease problems. Weeds also have an easier time getting a start because they do not have the deep roots of an established lawn.\n\n⢠Keep in mind that many sources who are suggesting you water more often are likely trying to sell you something as well. For example, an irrigation system or products that are required to maintain a fragile lawn damaged by excess watering.\n\n⢠Recently the "No Mow Spring" movement has taken off. Consider holding off until Summer for the first mow of the year. This allows insect pollinators a shot at a productive spring! It also allows your lawn to grow stronger before it gets hacked down by a mower.',description:"We sometimes waste water and money on unnecessarily frequent watering. Many plants are actually killed through over-watering, which is unnatural, than under-watering.\n\nThe key to a healthy lawn is deep and infrequent watering. This allows water to soak deep into the soil in order to reach the roots and encourages roots to grow downward (in search of water), which in turn makes your lawn more robust and resilient.",summary:"Over-watering our lawns wastes water and money, harming plant health. Opt for deep, infrequent watering to promote root growth and resilience.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@anthonyrossbach'>Anthony Lee</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0Re1WaNSGZjWjR",id:122,slug:"122-recycle-everything-you-can",title:"Recycle everything you can",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/122-recycle-everything-you-can",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recGwksfmMrrudPYG","rec05NQSOeE0CaFZ4","recW9KaitubY5oJNq","rec1KmGVQ3ohItehi","recBfv8AB5jIjRICu","rec7MbARTFct55tEj","recQegFLMFzbJyZ21","recQWOpWjRwimLZsl","recBDEcAl7nSgu9rJ","recLM
1BgbY5AXUNDNm","recm8cKsWhwSCVw2D","reclmSuw8eduuRbxU","recsBIxasAHI7iDzh"],tips:"⢠If you need to separate materials for recycling, like paper, glass, and metal, then it is likely easier to have a bin to throw each of them into.\n\n⢠Not sure what you can and cannot recycle? A complete list should be available online for your area.",description:"In a perfect world, there would be no need for garbage collection and landfills. Everything that comes into the house would be either reused, composted, or recycled. A more circular approach to resources would drastically reduce the pollution and waste from single-use items. While this may seem complicated in practice, it may be easier than you would expect to move in that direction.\n\nAnd impactful - if the average worldwide recycling rate of the materials considered here increases to 62â82 percent of total recyclable municipal solid waste, recycling could avoid 10.36â11.29 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions by 2050. Fifty percent of recycled materials coming from households and the rest from industry, (https://drawdown.org/solutions/recycling), so our efforts could make a difference.\n\nThe first step is understanding the easiest way to recycle. To do this, search online for your area and read about recycling options. Perhaps talk to friends that already recycle to see what they are doing.\n\nOnce you figure out what and how to recycle, make notes on what the collection points' requirements are to recycle, or print what you find online. Post notes where you plan to collect recyclable materials in your home. This will help you remember, get organized, and create a good system for your household.\n\nYou are off to the races! Now it is only a matter of getting your recyclables to the recycling center, whether that is having them ready for pick up or dropping them off as needed.\n\nIt gets even easier from here as you start to get into the habit. Do not let perfection stop you from getting started. The important thing is to give it a try and go from there.",summary:"Landfills are overflowing due to single-use items and poor waste management. Help reduce pollution by researching local recycling options and setting up a simple collecting system at home for recyclables.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@sigmund'>Sigmund</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDVCuJTXuIW0AMb",id:125,slug:"125-donate-to-earth-hero",title:"Donate to Earth Hero",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/125-donate-to-earth-hero",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recx90kv3RXq6UzxR","recq2fEuCkkjeuJ5P","reck2JOxqUDqdAeAU"],tips:"⢠We only accept monthly donations. Why? A monthly donation helps us plan better. Plus we do not need to spend as much time pestering people about making one-time donations. You can cancel at any time naturally.",description:'Earth Hero is a non-profit organization made up of volunteers that simply want to help address the climate emergency and improve lives. We think it is important to spread positive ideas and make it easy for people to act on them.\n\nWe would greatly appreciate it if you could spare a little each month. It keeps Earth Hero free for everyone and funds the technology we use to create, improve, and spread ideas to live better.\n\nIf we each pitch in a little, it really adds up to something big that has a lasting impact. Thank you for considering it. :-)\n\n<a href="https://www.earthhero.org/donate">Go to the Earth Hero donation website to make a monthly donation</a>.',summary:"Support Earth Hero's mission to make it easier for people to act on climate change with a donation. Your contribution sustains free resources and technology for positive change, making a lasting difference in addressing the climate emergency.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recUpjdyVDPZyiIaq",id:135,slug:"135-use-cloth-napkins-and-towels",title:"Use cloth napkins and towels",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/135-use-cloth-napkins-and-towels",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð² Conserve Forests","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recU8owpHoPVPBu58","rec1Otj7Y9qdzVWj2","recACrLMIxBjSt0Ce"],tips:'⢠Instead of removing all the paper products from the house at once, try transitioning in parts. Perhaps start by replacing the paper napkins with cloth ones. After a few weeks, transition to the kitchen to replace paper towels with cloth ones. Keep this approach up to ease into the process.\n\n⢠The transition may be as simple as pulling napkins and small cloth towels you already have from out of a drawer or closet and putting them somewhere more convenient to use. If you do not have options readily available, there are plenty of high-quality used options online to fit your needs and style.\n\n⢠If cloth towels do not replace all the uses of your paper towels, look into <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=washable+reusable+paper+towels">reusable paper towel options</a>. They fit on your current paper towel holder, are more durable, and can be washed multiple times to reuse again and again.\n\n⢠Not sure if this action will work for you? Allow yourself a trial. You can see if it works for you without feeling like you are locked in. Perhaps give it a few months, see what you save, and see how it goes for your household. If it does not work for you in all situations, no big deal.',description:"More and more people are switching from paper to cloth napkins and towels to reduce the cutting down of trees and to save money. Class up your home by phasing out flimsy napkins and paper towels. Plus, you save money and no longer need to lug around throw-away napkins and paper towels from the store!",summary:"Class up your home by phasing out flimsy napkins and paper towels. Switching to reusable cloth napkins and towels is a great way to save money and trees.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@micheile'>Micheile Henderson</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMUtQANEfCZUoGJ",id:138,slug:"138-use-standard-shipping",title:"Use standard shipping",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/138-use-standard-shipping",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recHlwfwXGrBy1KLd","re
1c0KskaNZN3Qx5P8","recnp9enyjYEQy0oh"],tips:"⢠Does this mean never using expedited shipping? No, if the need is there, then go for it. Just realize that when it does not matter, you might as well go standard to reduce pollution.",description:'The world of online orders and home delivery is growing ever-present. This may not be all bad, versus driving around ourselves, if society can become extra efficient at the logistics of the entire process. A part of this is choosing the most sustainable option for sending and receiving packages.\n\nGenerally, the faster something is sent, the more energy the shipper puts into sending it, such as by flying packages. Unfortunately <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint">flying generates the most significant amount of carbon emissions</a> per weight shipped, whether person or package.\n\nWhen it is an option, choosing standard shipping allows the shipper to use the most efficient method of transport, which is usually sea or ground transport. That likely means a less polluting delivery <a href="https://timeforchange.org/co2-emissions-for-shipping-of-goods/">as ship, train, and truck transit (to a lesser extent) have much lower emissions</a>. It also means more opportunity for deliveries to be combined, which means fewer vehicles driving around.\n\nThe same applies when you are shipping something. Plan ahead when you can, and choose standard shipping.',summary:"With online shopping and delivery on the rise, so are the associated transportation emissions. Choosing standard shipping allows the shipper to use the most efficient method of transport, reducing climate pollution.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mikaela_wiedenhoff'>Mikaela Wiedenhoff</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recAB13YQPWm2hiCD",id:140,slug:"140-get-clothes-second-hand",title:"Get clothes second hand",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/140-get-clothes-second-hand",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð§ Preserve Water","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recUpjdyVDPZyiIaq","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recibf9tOU2nQXFjg","recBjXS48FRsfQIYq"],tips:"⢠Have fun with your shopping experience. Go second-hand shopping with your friends or have a clothing exchange party.\n\n⢠Many apps and websites let you shop online for local goods, including second-hand clothes and furniture.\n\n⢠Second-hand clothes are often sturdier than the clothes you buy today and will last longer.\n\n⢠You will still likely buy some new clothing. This is not about being perfect. This is about reducing pollution from new items when you do not need them.\n\n⢠This action is a must if you have young children in your life. They will grow out of clothes before they wear through them. Plus you will save money at the right time.",description:'Money spent on brand-new clothes represents pollution from manufacturing, packaging, and shipping of these textiles. Will you ever be able to use only used clothing? Realistically not. But the more you incorporate second-hand clothing into your wardrobe, the better off our world will be. And you will have a lot more money to spend on the rest of your life as well!\n\nTextile production causes 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In addition, many of the new clothes made directly damage the environment. It takes 2,700 liters of water to make one cotton shirt. Rayon is made from cellulose â often from tree pulp, and <a href="https://www.earth.com/news/deforestation-fashion-rayon/">causes major deforestation as well as pollution</a>. Nylon is made from plastic, <a href="https://climatesteps.org/2019/07/06/plastic-climate-change-part-1/">which can take a hundred plus years to disintegrate</a>.',summary:"Buying new clothes contributes significantly to pollution through manufacturing and shipping. Incorporating more second-hand clothing into your wardrobe reduces environmental impact and saves money.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"\n",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@beccamchaffie'>Becca McHaffie</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPA0lwDiXzylqVE",id:142,slug:"142-report-a-bug-to-earth-hero",title:"Report a bug to Earth Hero",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/142-report-a-bug-to-earth-hero",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],tips:"⢠If relevant and not too hard to do, take a screenshot of where the bug is happening. That will speed up understanding the problem and fixing it.\n\n⢠When sending a message, please mention if you found the bug in Android, iOS, or a web browser.",description:'Sometimes software has glitches, including Earth Hero. If you encounter a bug that is causing a crash, odd behavior, or a bad experience, please let us know so we can fix it. Sometimes, these things sneak through!\n\nThis is a nice, simple way to improve Earth Hero that benef
1its thousands of other users. Make it a little easier for people to act on the climate emergency with a better Earth Hero app. :-)\n\nYou can send feedback through email to <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>. Thanks!',summary:"Send feedback to the Earth Hero team if you encounter a bug causing a crash, odd behavior, or a bad experience so we can fix it. Make it a little easier for others to act on the climate emergency with a better Earth Hero app.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@katelyn_g">Katelyn Greer</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reccG4IVWSpbswtiI",id:145,slug:"145-home-make-your-gifts",title:"Home-make your gifts",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/145-home-make-your-gifts",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recAB13YQPWm2hiCD","recfyvYMVucWO2Xcf","recxkxaIsOV289KUe"],tips:'⢠Plan ahead by knowing when birthdays are coming up and start making gifts early.\n\n⢠Add personal touches to existing clothes or items to repurpose.\n\n⢠Reuse pieces of card, fabric, jars, bottles for your gifts.\n\n⢠Gift the presents in a reusable mug or other item instead of wrapped in paper.\n\n⢠Have a making day and do several presents at once so you have a supply. This works well for children in particular or for jams and drinks.\n\n⢠Tell the "why-I-am-making-presents" story in an attached homemade card.\n\n⢠Glitter is a microplastic, which is killing photosynthesizing plankton. Best to avoid.',description:"Help cut down the amount of stuff, especially plastic stuff, produced globally by making presents with a personal touch for celebrations. Also, it can be great fun to do with others.",summary:"Cut down on the production of stuff and the associated pollution it creates by making personalized gifts. Plan ahead, repurpose items, and use reusable materials to create meaningful presents.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@joody'>Wijdan Mq</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recfyvYMVucWO2Xcf",id:147,slug:"147-use-a-reusable-hot-drink-cup",title:"Use a reusable hot drink cup",categories:["Stuff","Food"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/147-use-a-reusable-hot-drink-cup",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recQdlRZmCqYLSFnl","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recEz45BJOtmYtBIY"],tips:"⢠To make it easy to get into the habit of using your own cups, keep them in handy locations. For example, in your bag, on your desk, or in your vehicle.\n\n⢠If you do not mind the weight, carry your reusable cup around in your bag, so it is there when you need it.\n\n⢠It is even better if you use a reusable cup that you already have instead of buying a new one.\n\n⢠Talk to your favorite local coffee shop about getting a basket full of reusable cups.",description:'Do you regularly grab a coffee or tea on the go? Does your work or school have single-use disposable cups? Most single-use cups used by cafes are made from plastics like styrofoam, which is difficult to recycle. Even paper cups need to be treated for the plastic lining to be removed, which often does not happen.\n\nHalf a trillion disposable coffee cups are manufactured every year and <a href="https://perfectdailygrind.com/2021/06/why-is-recycling-single-use-coffee-cups-so-difficult/">most end up in a landfill</a>. Less than 1 percent are recycled. Switch to a reusable cup to help reduce plastic pollution, deforestation for paper production, and avoidable manufacturing energy.\n\nAs all paper cups meant to hold hot liquids have a layer of plastic in them, switching to a reusable, ceramic, or metal cup will also minimize plastics leaching into your food and into your body.',summary:"Switch to a reusable hot drink cup as a small way to help reduce plastic pollution, deforestation for paper production, and avoidable manufacturing energy.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-gray-cup-2267563/'>Photo by Andrew Neel</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recUZsIcKh8tX3IiL",id:149,slug:"149-use-a-library-of-things",title:"Use a library of things",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/149-use-a-library-of-things",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recFC2oHRE4oa7lXf"],tips:'⢠<a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=library+of+things+tool+library+near+me">Search online to see if a library of things is nearby</a>.\n\n⢠You can also look at the <a href="https://localtools.org/find/">Local Tools library finder</a> to see if there is one near you.\n\n⢠The hardest item to check out is always the first one. Give it a try with something simple to learn the process and how your library works. It only gets easier from there!\n\n⢠These libraries often have repair cafés, tool workshops, gardening events, kids events, social gatherings, and other things to benefit from.',description:'A library of things, also known as a share library or tool library, works like a regular library but includes items other than books, such as tools, toys, camping gear, and even kitchen gadgets. They are there for lending instead of buying or renting.\n\nIf we plan to use a durable item for a limited time, why buy it? Sharing things instead of buying new saves a lot of money and space in our homes. Plus there is less extraction of materials from natural resources, less manufacturing, and less transportation, which leads to less climate pollution.\n\nTake a look at the websites of libraries of things in <a href="https://www.chicagotoollibrary.org">Chicago</a> and <a href="http://brisbanetoollibrary.org/">Brisbane</a> to get a sense of how these libraries work and the types of items that are available.\n\nSupport your local sharing library by joining and promoting!',summary:"The idea that everyone needs to buy every item they need, even if it is only for one use, contributes to manufacturing pollution and waste. Why
1not save money and use a library of things instead?",additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/2020/09/03/a-tool-library-is-a-seed/",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/set-of-tool-wrench-162553/'>Photo by Pixabay</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec17VfEqUZwBlY4m",id:152,slug:"152-avoid-using-a-gas-leaf-blower",title:"Avoid using a gas leaf blower",categories:["Outside","Energy","Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/152-avoid-using-a-gas-leaf-blower",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec0ZIAF6JlOr5Elt","rec26ToRO9VSC5XF8","recexVPaSt59RHrMV","reclM0oag7cCzpyYZ"],tips:"⢠If you are looking for a new rake, broom, or other sweeping option, try buying used if possible.\n\n ⢠If that is not easy to do, look for one without plastic that is made of wood or bamboo with a recyclable metal on the end. They tend to last longer and avoid plastic waste.",description:'Gas leaf blowers produce a lot of hot air in the form of air blowing from one end and heat (and fumes) from the other. Besides lots of noise, <a href="https://www.edmunds.com/car-reviews/features/emissions-test-car-vs-truck-vs-leaf-blower.html">they generate more pollution than cars!</a> because they do not filter out any of the nasty stuff coming from burning gas. They also have been linked to <a href="https://www.momscleanairforce.org/leaf-blowers-health/"> adverse health effects to landscapers and communities</a>.\n\nThere are better sustainable options. A simple alternative is using a rake or broom to do the same job. It will save you money and you get some exercise out of it. To make the job easier, do not overdo your outdoor tidying up. For example, leave fallen leaves where they fall. They are a part of the ecosystem, so let them break down over time and contribute nutrients to your soil as they decompose. Plus, it is a nice help to bees <a href="https://medium.com/gardening-birding-and-outdoor-adventure/bees-need-leaves-2100f31b1e52">as they sometimes nest in leaves</a>.\n\nIf you need a little more power, look at electric options powered by a cord or battery back. No fumes to breathe, and they run a little quieter than their gas counterparts.',summary:"Fumes and noise from gas leaf blowers harm the environment, our health, and our ears. Use a rake, broom, or electric blower instead. Or simply leave fallen leaves in place to decompose and save yourself time.",additionalResources:"https://dengarden.com/landscaping/Gas-Powered-Leaf-Blowers-Now-Illegal\nhttp://huntingtoncalm.blogspot.com/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@inkyhills">Calum Hill</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recexVPaSt59RHrMV",id:153,slug:"153-replace-gas-lawn-mower",title:"Replace gas lawn mower",categories:["Home & Work","Energy","Outside"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/153-replace-gas-lawn-mower",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recapynl9NddotLZ9","recfRLclpYYW9Dt37","reclM0oag7cCzpyYZ"],tips:"⢠Have too much grass to handle with a push mower? No worries. Electric mowers are lighter, cheaper, and more efficient than traditional internal combustion engine gas-powered mowers. And they save the inconvenience of needing to go out to get gasoline.\n\n⢠Do you have a good relationship with your neighbors? Consider going in for a mower together to save costs and limit the need to create extra stuff.",description:'This is simple: replace your gas-powered lawn mower with an electric or push mower!\n\nMove away from polluting gas plus the mess it causes. Gas tends to spill when filling a traditional internal
1combustion engine (ICE) mower. How much? Ted Steinberg <a href="https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/series/america-on-the-world-stage/lawn-and-landscape-world-context-1945-2000">outlines the cost of it</a> in his book American Green where he states in the process of refueling lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and other garden equipment, about seventeen million gallons of gasoline are spilled each year, or about 50 percent more oil than marred the Alaskan coast during the notorious Exxon Valdez oil spill disaster.\n\nFurther, even a new gas-powered lawn mower produces as many volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxide emissions in one hour of operation as 11 cars being driven an hour according to the <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-to-pick-a-lawnmower/">US Environmental Protection Agency</a>. Now you know why it has that unforgettable smell.',summary:"Switch to an electric or push mower to reduce climate pollution, nasty fumes, and to avoid gas spills.",additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/2020/03/20/change-lawns-to-actual-life\n\nhttps://longreads.com/2019/07/18/american-green/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@bruno_kelzer'>Bruno Kelzer</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8",id:155,slug:"155-volunteer-in-a-political-niche",title:"Volunteer in a political niche",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/155-volunteer-in-a-political-niche",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recoSJ8NmAqfe2KE0","reck2JOxqUDqdAeAU","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:"⢠Search online for groups that align with the scale (local, regional, national) that you might like to work with. Some may have work at the national level, but also have local chapters that can have a local emphasis. They can help match your volunteer efforts to a scale in a way that will make headway.\n\n⢠Try out organizations to see if it is good fit for you. Do you think they are impactful? Do you like the people? Is it enjoyable? If not, not big deal. Try to find a better fit.\n\n⢠On the local level, think about connecting with local politicians, school boards, city managers, attorney generals, etc. They are often very approachable and are the ones dealing with the actual problems and implementation. They often value help, support and insight to advance society!\n\n⢠Further â you can focus your political volunteer time within a specific topical niche â such as park preservation, environmental justice or pollution. You may meet with representatives, who tend to respect those who know the details, and a focus on a particular topic can help you gain an understanding of costs, benefits, and potential solutions on various sides. Volunteering with an organization can help you acquire that background and training.",description:"All scales of representational democracy â from local to national to global â could use our help to highlight the need for action. You can focus on broad issues or narrow, work alone, or volunteer with an organization. The connections you will make can lead to endless opportunities to make progress towards a better world.",summary:"Get involved to draw attention to problems and solutions in order to create a better society through the political process. Try out different organizations to find a good fit.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reclM0oag7cCzpyYZ",id:157,slug:"157-replace-your-grass-lawn",title:"Replace your grass lawn",categories:["Outside","Home & Work","Resilience"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/157-replace-your-grass-lawn",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec0ZIAF6JlOr5Elt","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u","recc4IFai7MtRh6BM"],tips:'⢠Replacing your lawn does not have to be all done at once. You can instead build your native flowers, edible gardens, shrubs, trees, and ground cover out farther and farther each year into the lawn space.\n\n⢠Dig up, divide, and spread out plants you have now to let them grow bigger and take up space that you had to mow before.\n\n⢠If you want to change over to a native plant garden more quickly, you can cover the one-species grass lawn with cardboard, loads of compost, and then mulch. Then plant new native plants in through the cardboard. As the cardboard and compost works into the soil slowly, the plant will put its roots down deeper.\n\n⢠If you tear up the lawn all at once you might be able to de-sod the landscape and sell the sod to
1someone else. It is not ideal to keep perpetuating grass lawns, but better than letting it go to waste.\n\n⢠Some organizations, including volunteer ones, will help you unlawn your lawn. Search online for local groups.\n\n⢠For planting new gardens, you may be able to get help from your city or nonprofits within your jurisdiction as well.\n\n⢠Fall is a great time to get new plants on sale from your local garden center. There are usually great sales and otherwise the plants are often left to die.\n\n⢠There are lots of other exciting ideas and tips online in articles, videos, and communities to learn what works best for your area.\n\nTypes of Alternative Lawns:\n\n⢠A Native Landscape is just that â made of native species. You can let it go wild, removing invasive non-native species as it grows, or you can landscape to create a layered, multi-colored garden that blooms/turns green with different species throughout the year. A native landscape is low maintenance; it almost never needs a lawnmower, fertilizer, or active watering.\n\n⢠Plant an edible garden in your backyard and in your front yard if allowed. An edible garden can range from a more natural, edible landscape to a full-blown vegetable garden, as well as fruit trees. There are many resources online for your specific location. An example of how neighbors are supporting an actual market with their lawns can be <a href="https://www.growwiththeflowllc.com/">found here</a>.\n\n⢠If you have lots of trees around or a shady yard then consider a Moss Garden. They do not require fertilizing, although some species do require watering during dry spells. A how-to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VZOZeSlTRw&f=">source</a>.\n\n⢠For those with more sun, consider a Clover Lawn. Clover does support bees, but be careful about choosing native clover versus introduced clover. Avoid a one-species lawn, even if using a native species â mix up the species!\n\n⢠A Woodland Garden consists of a layered landscape including trees, shrubs, small bushes, and ground cover. It takes time to grow though â but you will be sequestering carbon in the process. To maintain, sticks from the trees should be composted in a pile if you plan to keep a managed layered look.\n\n⢠A Wildlife Pond is a great option if you have room for it. Search online for ideas for your area.\n\n⢠Xeriscaping is landscaping with an emphasis on the selection of plants for water conservation, not necessarily selecting native plants. Search online for local options if you live in a water-scarce area and would like to explore this route.\n\n⢠A Freedom Lawn is a lawn that is still mowed (hopefully with an electric mower), but consists of any species that grows, such as clover, other types of grasses, dandelions. It stays green for a longer period over the year than a regular grass lawn and still feels like a lawn to walk on (which can be good for kids). It is a good way to start converting your lawn over to a natural landscape. The biggest disadvantage is that it still requires some mowing.\n\n⢠Alternatively, create a combination of the above or come up with your own ideas to create a space that you enjoy and that works for you!\n\n⢠These things can not only be done at home â but at schools, places of worship, or even at your office.',description:"Turn your mundane one-species grass lawn into a more interesting natural environment that supports more life. Grass lawns are a resource and time sink. They require fertilizer (made from petroleum products), mowing (usually with a gas mower), and extra water.\n\nThere are several better alternatives, including: a native species-landscaped yard, a moss garden, woods, a freedom lawn, and an edible garden. Any plant that does not require mowing and fertilizer is a great option to save you time, money, and pollution. Further, the more natural the environment, the more carbon is sequestered in the soil.",summary:"Transform your conventional grass lawn into a beautiful thriving natural habitat to save time, cost, and pollution. Gradually integrate native plants, edibles, or moss gardens to create diverse landscapes that benef
1it you and our environment.",additionalResources:"https://xerces.org/pollinator-conservation/yards-and-gardens \n\nhttps://news.yahoo.com/back-wild-ungardening-took-root-america-012337033.html \n\nhttps://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2008/07/21/turf-war-elizabeth-kolbert\n\nhttps://www.scientificamerican.com/article/the-lawn-grass-probably-isnt-greener/\n\nhttps://news.wttw.com/2019/10/02/fearing-insect-apocalypse-renowned-entomologist-says-get-rid-your-lawn\n\nhttps://earther.gizmodo.com/lawns-are-an-ecological-disaster-1826070720\n\nhttps://returntonow.net/2018/08/03/want-a-sustainable-grass-like-lawn-plant-clover/\n\nhttps://home.howstuffworks.com/10-green-lawns-without-a-blade-of-grass10.htm",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@charlesdeluvio'>Charles</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEDX64qfFxDxqEB",id:158,slug:"158-report-methane-(natural-gas)-smell",title:"Report methane (natural gas) smell",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/158-report-methane-(natural-gas)-smell",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recmfK7eHweleLT9M","recDOwq3Kl38EIVRY","recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt"],description:"This one is simple. Whenever you come across the smell of methane (natural gas) give a call to your local utility gas-reporting phone number or website. Not only do you prevent the risk of explosions, but it helps not waste this polluting, planet-heating substance from leaking into the air.\n\nWe hear of methane leaks from industrial piping, flaring and fracking but what does that mean? Natural gas is made primarily of methane, with a little ethane and other hydrocarbons. Industry mines and processes it for fuel, but it is a very potent greenhouse gas that overheats our world. Unfortunately most corporations and municipalities only maintain equipment to a cost-effective level. This means they may not regularly send out employees looking for leaks.\n\nSo help them by being proactive. If needed, be a pest and call about a consistent leak, even if small. We need those leaks plugged. If you are up for it, while you have them on the phone, explain why you are concerned â not just for safety, but to prevent the cooking of the planet.\n\nTechnically, when we smell natural gas we smell an additive used to create a detectable smell, as methane itself is odorless. The goal of the additive is to help find leaks before they cause an explosion.",summary:"If you smell methane, alert your local utility gas to prevent explosions and reduce air pollution. Be proactive and persistent in reporting leaks, and explain your concerns.",additionalResources:"https://www.elgas.com.au/blog/654-the-smell-of-safety-odourised-gas\n\nhttps://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/natural-gas",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/low-angle-view-of-illuminated-tower-against-sky-at-night-327041/'>
1Photo by Pixabay</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3",id:161,slug:"161-plant-trees",title:"Plant trees",categories:["Outside","Family & Community","Food","Energy","Home & Work","Resilience"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/161-plant-trees",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð² Conserve Forests","ðï¸ Reduce Flooding","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health","ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions","Household"],related:["recHDEea5lW6bBcfw","recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","recQBwiTKITQciC6h","recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recSXkrt33vb8pXiw","recBLGRkOhZbLsGa6","recDC5bUmbwqeR24a"],tips:'⢠Plan how to plant your trees â If possible, plant trees strategically to cool your home by as much <a href="https://www.arborday.org/trees/climatechange/summershade.cfm">as 35 percent during warmer months</a>. You can also plant trees that keep their leaves and needles all year to block winds in colder times.\n\n⢠Have a bare slope that you are worried about running off? Trees are great to help control soil erosion.\n\n⢠If you do not have a good location to plant, find a local organization that runs tree-planting events. A quick search online should turn up groups and volunteer opportunities. It is a great way to meet some nice people.\n\nWhat type of tree to plant?\n\n⢠Native trees are ones that have been thriving in your area for millennia. They are part of the balance of nature that has developed over hundreds or thousands of years for a particular region. Because of this, they are generally easier to grow and maintain.\n\n⢠To figure out what is native to your area, a quick search online will likely point you in the right direction.\n\n⢠Why go native? Along with a climate crisis, we are also experiencing a biodiversity crisis. <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-48169783">One million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction</a>, many within decades. This is more than ever before in human history. This has implications for economies, livelihoods, food security, health, and our quality of life worldwide. Native trees provide a better habitat for local animals, birds, insects, and many other forms of wildlife. Abundant wildlife is a sign of a healthy planet.\n\n⢠Planting a food tree you can harvest is a good option as well. Not only does it create a carbon-sequestering tree, but it provides the most local type of food source. They are often great for biodiversity as well.\n\n⢠If planting a food tree, naturally pick one that is a type of food you like to eat.\n\nOther Considerations\n\n⢠See if your city or a community organization provides trees for free or low cost. They also often have already determined which trees work best in your area.\n\n⢠Before the weather gets colder there are often great sales on trees in garden centers. However, the selection will not be as good. These trees are often left to die if no one buys them.\n\n⢠If you are unsure about where local utility lines are buried, check with your utility company before digging. Typically, this is completely free.\n\n⢠It is helpful to trim away minor branch defects at the time of planting, but hold off on major pruning for at least a year.\n\n⢠During the first two weeks, deeply water young trees every day. Then, water a new tree once a week for the first year, unless it rained a good amount during the week.\n\n⢠If you want to go deeper, connect with your local naturalist society, horticultural society, environmental group, or municipality to get tips on what, when, where, and how to plant. Learning more about the amount of sun, type of soil, and watering requirement (especially when the tree is newly planted) will increase your likelihood of success.',description:'Trees. Gorgeous and calming. Providers of homes for birds and a huge array of life. Cleaners of the air and the producers of the oxygen we breathe.\n\nWhile many people work to
1save rainforests, we need as many trees as possible around the world to address the climate emergency. <a href="https://ssec.si.edu/stemvisions-blog/what-photosynthesis">Through the process of photosynthesis</a>, plants convert light energy into carbohydrates from COâ and water. In the process, oxygen is released and carbon pollution is taken out of the air.\n\nPlus if trees are planted near your home they can help keep your home cooler during hot times and warmer during cold times.\n\nTrees also help with <a href="https://www.epa.gov/heatislands/using-trees-and-vegetation-reduce-heat-islands">the heat island effect</a>, which happens because closely packed buildings and paved surfaces amplify and trap heat. Trees lower surface and air temperatures by providing shade and through evapotranspiration, which is the movement of water to the air from the tree. That is especially important in an over-heating world.\n\nLarge trees can absorb massive amounts of carbon pollution a year, and they live for decades, if not hundreds of years, so it adds up when we collectively plant them together!',summary:"To help address the climate emergency, we need as many trees as possible worldwide. Improve your area by planting trees nearby or find a local organization that runs tree-planting events to volunteer.",additionalResources:"https://www.arborday.org/trees/climatechange/summershade.cfm\n\nhttps://homeguides.sfgate.com/close-house-can-plant-tree-96222.html\n\nhttps://extension2.missouri.edu/g6900\n\nhttps://www.npr.org/2019/09/04/755349748/trees-are-key-to-fighting-urban-heat-but-cities-keep-losing-them\n\nhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S221067071630066X\n\nhttps://journals.ametsoc.org/doi/full/10.1175/JAMC-D-11-0228.1",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-leaning-on-brown-wooden-table-1629021/'>Photo by Min An</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDOwq3Kl38EIVRY",id:165,slug:"165-call-natural-gas-methane",title:"Call natural gas methane",categories:["Energy","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:3,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/165-call-natural-gas-methane",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recEDX64qfFxDxqEB","recmfK7eHweleLT9M","recJdIfA2i2gx05Gp","recM9OqoQ8AJmaLRA"],tips:"⢠Use the term methane when you can, but you may still need to use the term natural gas to be understood when necessary. How Earth Hero uses the term is an example of that. Progress, not perfection.\n\n⢠It may feel strange to use a different term at first, but it will feel more normal as you get into the habit of using it.\n\n⢠A small detail in case it comes up â While natural gas is almost all methane, it does contain a little ethane and other hydrocarbons. Because it is mostly methane, it is still a fair name.\n\n⢠Looking to push the limits further? Consider other options: fossil gas, fracked gas, or piped methane.",description:'Nobody wanted to eat Patagonian toothfish. Then, in 1977, an American fish merchant <a href="https://priceonomics.com/the-invention-of-the-chilean-sea-bass/">changed the name to Chilean sea bass and it took off</a>. Similarly, the Chinese gooseberry was not popular. It is known as the kiwi today. And did you know that before canola oil was so common it used to be called rapeseed oil?\n\nNames can make things sound so much better or worse. Take methane, more well-known as natural gas. Would people feel differently about burning it, and the leaks between capture and delivery, that are causing our planet to overheat with a more accurate name? A <a href="https://climatecommunication.yale.edu/publications/should-it-be-called-natural-gas-or-methane/">study actually looked into it</a> and found that the terms methane and methane gas evoke much more negative feelings.\n\nWords matter. While we are at it, perhaps we could change the name of an endangered species of rhinoceros to battle unicorns to bring more attention to it? :-)',summary:"Words matter. Use a more accurate term like methane instead of natural gas to describe what it actually is. Help shift perceptions so people more readily understand how it is over-heating our only planet.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/blaze-blue-blur-bright-266896/'>
1Photo by Pixabay</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reczYfkqfNczhqWeN",id:168,slug:"168-talk-about-climate",title:"Talk about climate",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/168-talk-about-climate",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recZgHBqz6h9z0tNH","recKbqlT0ylqFOlKM","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0"],tips:'⢠No, it is not always straightforward. Maybe start with a basic question like "How do you feel about the climate emergency?" and talk about your concern for you and those you know, before you get on to speaking about the core problem and solutions.\n\n⢠It is not about naming and shaming â it is about helping others learn or face the truth so that we can start a cultural shift through acceptance and change.\n\n⢠Meet people where they are. Help people along their journey to understanding the heart of the problem (i.e. all the pollution we are putting into the air) and the solutions (i.e. moving to cleaner energy and food options, plus ending our old polluting ways). Do not expect people to completely understand or fully change their minds after one conversation.\n\n⢠In-direct ways of interjecting climate into conversations are often the most effective. People often want to make up their own minds and not be told what to do. Let them do so, but provide them with things to consider without telling them what to think. Especially with friends or family over holidays.\n\n⢠Talking can be really beneficial for mental health, so you might even find sharing your anxiety about climate with others helps you feel less alone.',description:"Talk about it! One of the most impactful things we can all do in response to the climate emergency is talk about it. Do not stay silent. You are taking action by mentioning your own or others' emissions, as well as your actions against climate change. It helps others see that climate change is personal and shows that action can be taken.",summary:"Talk about the climate emergency! Take action by discussing the problem and solutions. Meet people where they are to support a cultural shift towards understanding and progress.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://blogs.scientificamerican.com/observations/how-to-talk-effectively-about-climate-change/ ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@alexisrbrown'>Alexis Brown</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recOFb4YPqp1O9yMM",id:178,slug:"178-become-an-earth-hero-volunteer",title:"Become an Earth Hero volunteer",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:75,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396262/actions/178-become-an-earth-hero-volunteer.jpg",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],tips:'⢠Consider which of your existing skills you would most enjoy contributing or which skills you would like to develop.\n\n⢠Think hard about whether you can make the time for Earth Hero. It is challenging for new volunteers to create the habit of focusing on Earth Hero. Helping out is very flexible, but if you cannot think of a regular day and time to sit down to work, it may be a sign you do not have time for it.\n\n⢠If you join the team, expect to roll up your sleeves and get working on a practical project sooner rather than later. Doing is a great way to speed up the learning curve.\n\n⢠Learn more about Earth Heroâs global <a href="https://www.earthhero.org/team/">volunteer team</a> and the different skills its members contribute.',description:'Climate change is no longer on the horizon. It is happening now. Take the next step and become part of a movement you already care about. If you have used Earth Hero regularly and made progress, you might enjoy helping others do the same.\n\nJoin the global volunteer team, helping hundreds of thousands of people across 150+ countries take practical climate action. Volunteers contribute in many ways, including content creation, marketing, softw
1are development, design, translation, research, and project management.\n\nIf you can contribute about 20 hours per month for at least six months, visit <a href="https://www.earthhero.org/get-involved/">Get Involved</a> to explore current opportunities and send the team a message of interest.',summary:"Join the Earth Hero team and volunteer your skills to help make climate action and sustainable living easier for people around the world.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recoSJ8NmAqfe2KE0",id:180,slug:"180-write-your-representatives",title:"Write YOUR representatives",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/180-write-your-representatives",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recKbqlT0ylqFOlKM"],tips:"⢠Studies have found that handwritten letters are the most effective means to catch attention, but emails are super easy to send. Either way, make them personal, tell a story, have them contain specifics.\n\n⢠Most importantly send the message and send them often! A simple message is infinitely better than sending no message at all.\n\nHere is a basic template to give you some ideas,\n\nDear____________,\n\nI am writing to you because of my concern that _________ is going in the wrong direction on climate change.\n\nWe can no longer ignore the ongoing effects of climate change. The year has turned for the worse in terms of extreme weather events and an overheating Earth, and the situation is not going to improve.\n\nI am proud to be a citizen of _______, yet we are one of the worst contributors to ecological destruction in the world.\n\nI was lucky enough to be born in this great country in this great time. For the sake of our prosperity, the economy, and future generations we need to phase out pollution and our destructive ways.\n\nAs my _____, I am asking you to call for stronger action on climate change. Please: Support any and all actions which curtail COâ emissions, grow clean renewable energy, reduce subsidies to polluting companies, protect our water, air, and land, and reduce the amount of waste in our landfills.\n\nSimply, my vote in the next election will go to the candidate with the best climate change and environmental platform.\n\nI hope that is you!\n\nSincerely,\n______________\n\n⢠You can find other templates online if you are looking for more inspiration.\n\n⢠If an election is upcoming, ensure that our representatives are aware that your vote will go to the candidate with the best climate change and environmental platform.",description:"Our own actions are vital in the fight to save our future; however, that fight will be lost if governments and industry remain tangled in the polluting status quo.\n\nPoliticians propose, support, and create laws or policies that govern the land and, by extension, its people. They need to be aware and moved by the will of those who elected them.\n\nJoin your fellow citizens, and thousands of other Earth Hero users, and write your representatives to inform them of your needs.",summary:"The current situation is dire, with governments and industries stuck in old polluting habits. Write personalized letters or emails to your representatives urging more robust climate policy and encouraging action.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://front.moveon.org/\n\nhttps://climatesteps.org/politics/working-through-your-representatives-or-replacing-them/ \n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-using-macbook-pro-374074/>Photo by Burst</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recuqUj5osCRcHuMb",id:181,slug:"181-register-to-vote-early",title:"Register to vote early",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/181-register-to-vote-early",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recJqFITwtuU4navB","recKbqlT0ylqFOlKM","recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc"],tips:"⢠A quick search online will give you the options for registering and any required documents.\n\n⢠During the process of registering, find out what is needed to vote at the polling booth or via absentee ballot.",description:"As politics heat up during election years, some politicians may try to put barriers up to people voting â even at the last minute. Barriers include closing polling places, creating ID rules, requiring more steps for registration and delaying mail. Parties use tactics like these to minimize the voting effect from segments of the population that do not support them.\n\nIf you have not registered to vote, or if you just turned voting age, please do it now. Do not get caught flat-footed. Even if you think you may
1not vote, you may change your mind later. Who is in that office depends on ME and YOU! Make sure the majority is not silent!",summary:"Politicians may try to limit voting rights to keep themselves in power, but you can counteract that by registering to vote now. Research the requirements and be prepared to vote. Make your voice heard!",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/person-holding-gray-twist-pen-and-white-printer-paper-on-brown-wooden-table-955389/'>Photo by Cytonn Photography</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recumFCOCJixI4Hjp",id:190,slug:"190-attend-local-rallies",title:"Attend local rallies",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/190-attend-local-rallies",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr","reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8"],tips:"⢠A quick search online can help you find local groups or rallies happening in your area. If you get on the email list of local climate action groups, they will keep you updated on events happening.\n\n⢠Choose a rally that is likely to have a strong impact, i.e., where you are likely to be seen by decision-makers and other people who are going about their daily activities.\n\n⢠Ask friends and family to join you. Maybe make plans for a meal together afterward or organize a picnic.\n\n⢠Bring chalk to put slogans on the sidewalk or consider making a sign. Get inspiration for slogans by searching online.\n\n⢠Be kind, pleasant, and courteous to others while making them aware (on the train, while walking, at the site) of why you are doing this. Rally others to join you, not push them away.\n\n⢠Enjoy the camaraderie! It is good being among your own.",description:"Spend some time attending public climate-related rallies. You signal your support, learn from others, and get a boost of energy from the experience.",summary:"Join climate rallies to show support, learn, and feel energized. Find local events online or by joining a local group to keep updated.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"www.climatesteps.org/politics\n\nhttps://indivisible.org/events ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@alexradelich'>Alex Radelich</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJpcNfCyOls5968",id:194,slug:"194-create-a-green-team-at-school",title:"Create a green team at school",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/194-create-a-green-team-at-school",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q"],tips:'⢠Ask a teacher or other faculty member to advise or sponsor the team. They can help guide you through creating the team and solving issues you will run into.\n\n⢠Prepare a short proposal explaining the teamâs purpose and initial ideas. Highlight the educational, environmental, and community benefits, along with opportunities to reduce school
1costs.\n\n⢠When speaking with school leaders to get any approvals and support, explain the environmental and educational benefits, as well as the potential cost savings. Reducing energy and water use, waste, and unnecessary purchases can benefit both our planet and the schoolâs budget.\n\n⢠During your first team meeting, talk about the priorities, assign responsibilities, establish a timeline, and have the plan approved by school leadership to avoid misunderstandings.\n\n⢠Focus on practical improvements that people can support, such as reducing wasted energy, improving recycling, switching from single-use to more durable items, cutting food waste, or organizing a reuse or swap event. Early successes can strengthen the team and build momentum.\n\n⢠Research <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=ways+students+can+make+school+more+sustainable">project ideas online</a> to have a wide range of options that appeal to the team.\n\n⢠Track your results, including any waste reduced, energy saved, money saved, or people involved. Celebrate successes and share them with the school community to encourage wider participation.',description:"Schools can face financial and organizational barriers to becoming more sustainable. No matter the level of learning institution you may attend, students and staff can help turn good ideas into practical action.\n\nYou already understand many of your schoolâs routines, spaces, and needs, which can help you identify opportunities for improvement. Creating a green team also offers valuable experience in communication, teamwork, leadership, planning, and making a positive impact.\n\nBegin by gathering interested people, securing approval, and proposing a few achievable projects. A team spreads responsibility and brings together different ideas and skills. Finding a teacher to sponsor your team and help you navigate may be helpful as well.\n\nStart small, build trust through early successes, and expand your efforts as your team gains experience and support.",summary:"Bring students, staff, and school leaders together to make your school more sustainable. Start with practical, low-cost improvements, build supp
1ort through early successes, and grow your impact over time.",additionalResources:"https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-to-start-an-environment-club/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@wildlittlethingsphoto">Helena Lopes</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc",id:196,slug:"196-sign-climate-petitions",title:"Sign climate petitions",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/196-sign-climate-petitions",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["rec8HWFIaKVe9fVlk"],tips:"⢠Many climate action groups share petitions to sign. Sign up for the email lists of a few groups to get notified about petitions.\n\n⢠Search online for climate change petitions, rainforest petitions, wildlife petitions, or whatever particular topic interests you to improve our world.\n\n⢠If it is something you really believe in, consider sharing the petition with others. It helps to get more support and keeps the particular problem top of mind with others.",description:"Add your voice to the call for urgent change. Every one of us can help reach the critical mass needed to help move our society to a better place. This is a quick and easy way to add your voice.",summary:"Join with others to show your support for action on climate change with the simple act of signing petitions. Join a climate action group to hear about them and share good ones with others to amplify their impact.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@theunsteady5'>Edwin Andrade</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recsDE8Gxe9cqq1bR",id:197,slug:"197-comment-on-government-regulations",title:"Comment on government regulations",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/197-comment-on-government-regulations",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recxq5eYbrsnhRRfH","recZ9bY9SZnSAxtJe","recNrX9EiTTX4KC72","rec8HWFIaKVe9fVlk","recpdhXvUxEwu2hbR","recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:'There are a few basic steps to commenting on rules:\n\nStep 1: Find Rules to Comment On\n\nThere are a variety of ways to learn about proposed rules. Media outlets often cover proposed rules, especially if they impact humans. Public interest organizations like climate action groups might inform people of proposed rules by sharing info on their websites, newsletters, or email action alerts. Another great reason to try out some different climate organizations!\n\nStep 2: Find Your Rule Online\n\nLocate your rule on websites that help people find and comment on proposed and final regulations. Climate action groups often help you directly submit with links they send out.\n\nStep 3: Submit Your Comments\n\nTo submit c
1omments, you will likely be required to provide your name and email, which allows you to track the comments when they are published and for officials to follow up for further consultations. Climate action organizations often share draft comments that you can use as a starting point to then add your own tone and voice.\n\nThe hardest part is creating the habit of taking part regularly. Joining up with different organizations that send your emails about this type of thing for local and national issues is a big help.\n\nIf you want to go deeper into the world of commenting and consultations on government regulations, check out the following:\n\n<a href="https://www.regulations.gov/">Regulations.gov</a> â This portal is to search for rules, comments, and documents by entering keywords such as "climate change".\n\nIf you want to go even further deeper, check out sites like these, which include guidebooks, templates, and more detail:\n\no <a href="https://publiccommentproject.org/">Public Comment Project</a>\no <a href="https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ES_20180809_RegComments.pdf">How to Effectively Comment on Regulations</a>\no <a href="https://climatesteps.org/politics/testifying-and-commenting/">Testifying, Commenting, and Consulting Guidebook</a>',description:"As a member of the public, did you know that you can submit input on rules, regulations, and other proposed policies that affect the environment?\n\nWhether governing clean air, protecting wildlife, or limiting COâ emissions from power plants and vehicles, government agencies develop rules that touch many aspects of our lives. It is an integral part of the rule-making process that allows the public to participate.\n\nRules go through several stages in their development. During the public commenting phase, any person or group may comment on a rule and can easily submit comments online.\n\nBefore regulations are created and approved, get your voice heard so decision-makers can understand the human impact of proposed rules and help them see how climate change and environmental issues affect all of us.",summary:"Did you know you can submit input on rules or laws that affect the environment? Find proposed rules online, submit comments, and make your voice heard to influence decision-makers. Join climate organizations to stay informed.",additionalResources:"https://www.australianethical.com.au/blog/how-to-make-a-submission-to-the-climate-change-bill-inquiry/\n\nhttps://roganslist.blogspot.com/2019/10/102119-on-mondays-roganslist-features.html\n\nhttps://publiccommentproject.org/ ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@homajob'>Scott Graham</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU",id:198,slug:"198-invest-in-clean-energy",title:"Invest in clean energy",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/198-invest-in-clean-energy",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ System Change","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recNcr0wYX2l94xJu","recHTiWvfC8Wy7Qlo","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","reckPsoCCKKwVNpip","rec9mdywaHvpECv5h","recl4xZhzXORw7SxT"],tips:'⢠First, do some research. Key things to consider are your risk tolerance and your investment horizon. If you are not sure about how to even consider that, then talk with family, friends, or advisors who are knowledgeable. Empower yourself!\n\n⢠When weighing which company to choose, look at factors that drive a company\'s success. Does that pick provide you with the best value, strong growth, and momentum? Is it a truly green company that is making a positive impact and has the potential to grow?\n\n⢠As a starting point, you can get a snapshot of the top renewable energy funds by checking out <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/clean-energy-etfs">Nerd Wallet Renewable ETFs</a> and <a href="https://etfdb.com/etfs/industry/clean-energy/">Clean Energy ETFs</a>.\n\n⢠In addition, here are some of the largest clean energy funds you can consider adding to your portfolio. These may not all be available depending on the platform you use to invest, but they should give you a sense of what is possible so you can look for similar options.\n\n- iShares Global Clean Energy ETF (ICLN)\n- First Trust NASDAQ Clean Edge Green Energy Index Fund (QCLN)\n- Lyxor Net Zero 2050 S&P Eurozone Climate PAB (DR) UCITS ETF\n- Amundi Index MSCI Global Climate Change UCITS ETF DR EUR (C)\n- BNP Paribas Easy Low Carbon 100 Europe UCITS ETF\n- Invesco Solar ETF (TAN)\n- Invesco WilderHill Clean Energy ETF (PBW)\n- Invesco MSCI Sustainable Future ETF (ERTH)\n- SPDR S&P Kensho Clean Power ETF (CNRG)\n\n⢠It is critically important to consider the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/expenseratio.asp">expense ratio</a> of any fund you invest in. This is how much money the fund manager takes annually to manage the fund. Anything above 0.50% is extremely high and will cost you a tidy fortune over the years.\n\n⢠Most importantly, know that your funds power the climate finance movement. These resources allow societies and economies to get ahead of the adverse effects of climate change.\n\n------\nNOTE: This information should not be relied upon as research, investment advice, or a recommendation regarding any products. This material is strictly for educational or informational purposes and is subject to change.',description:'Did you know you can combat climate change by investing in clean energy like solar, wind, and geothermal? Green energy companies and the industry must continue innovating to out-compete fossil fuels. Renewable power needs financing to reach all facets of society.\n\nIf you are in a good position financially, you can invest in various aspects of the renewable energy supply chain and ecosystem. For example, you can invest directly in public companies like First Solar (FSLR), a large-scale solar panel provider. Alternatively, you can invest in other renewable stocks like Sono Motors (SEV), which makes solar-powered cars, or Siemens Gamesa (GCTAY), which manufactures wind turbines across the world.\n\nA less risky approach is to invest more broadly in a basket of green energy stocks through exchange-traded funds (ETFs) like <a href="https://www.ishares.com/us/products/239738/ishares-global-clean-energy-etf">iShares Global Clean Energy</a>
1.\n\nIt is an excellent way to put your money to work to speed up the transition to a cleaner and more resilient future. In turn, there may be a good return on your investment, which can then be used to further finance companies that need funds for growth and innovation.',summary:"Investing in renewable energy helps combat climate change and speed up progress. You can invest in renewable energy stocks or exchange-traded funds to support the transition to a cleaner future and potentially earn a good return on the investment.",additionalResources:"https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/clean-energy-etfs\n\nhttps://money.usnews.com/investing/funds/slideshows/clean-energy-etfs-to-buy-now\n\nhttps://www.justetf.com/en/how-to/invest-in-climate-change.html\n\nhttps://money.usnews.com/investing/investing-101/articles/solar-energy-investing-pros-and-cons",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@unarchive'>Jeremy Bezanger</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNcr0wYX2l94xJu",id:199,slug:"199-invest-in-green-bonds",title:"Invest in green bonds",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/199-invest-in-green-bonds",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ System Change","ð Save Energy"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU","reckPsoCCKKwVNpip","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","rec2AOLBPfT5feSDE","recFIs17Sk9rZekTd","rec9mdywaHvpECv5h","recHTiWvfC8Wy7Qlo","recl4xZhzXORw7SxT"],tips:'⢠First, do some research. Key things to consider are your risk tolerance and your investment horizon. If you are not sure about how to even consider that, then talk with family, friends, or advisors who are knowledgeable. Learn more so you can be smarter with your money!\n\n⢠When choosing which green bond funds to invest in, pay attention to their inclusion criteria and costs to maintain the fund. For example, does the fund target projects related to clean energy, energy efficiency, pollution prevention and control, sustainable water, or green building? Are the fees reasonable (expense ratio)?\n\n⢠The financial community has a set of Green Bond Principles that help you understand sustainability investment funds</a>:\n\n1. Use of Proceeds: shows how bond funds can be spent based on eligible projects, such as renewable energy production and transmission, energy efficiency in buildings, or pollution prevention.\n\n2. Process for Project Evaluation and Selection: explains what the green bond issuer should communicate to investors, such as the projectâs objectives.\n\n3. Reporting: how are the progress and impact of the green bonds reported (e.g., impact report)?\n\n4. Management of Proceeds: outlines how the funds generated by the bond should be handled.\n\n⢠Those who issue bonds can get <a href="https://www.climatebonds.net/market/second-opinion">certification</a> for meeting green bond principles under the Climate Bonds Standard and Certification Scheme. Rating agencies like Moodyâs and S&P Global Ratings also assess bonds for low-carbon credentials. This allows investors transparency across sectors and asset classes.\n\n⢠Here are some of the top green bond funds. These may not all be available depending on the platform you use to invest, but they should give you a sense of what is possible so you can look for similar options:\n\n- iShares Global Green Bond ETF (BGRN)\n- Calvert Green Bond Fund (CGAFX)\n- VanEck Vectors Green Bond ETF (GRNB)\n- TIAA-CREF Green Bond Fund (TGROX)\n\n⢠Alternatively, talk to a financial advisor about including green bonds in your sustainable investment portfolio.\n\n------\nNOTE: This information should not be relied upon as research, investment advice, or a recommendation regarding any products. This material is strictly for educational or informational purposes and is subject to change.',description:'Companies, organizations, and governments issue green bonds to finance environmental and sustainable projects. In other words, they are raising money to pay for an investment project, promising to pay the money back. These projects may include <a href="https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/investing/green-bonds">
1renewable energy (such as wind and solar), clean transportation, and sustainable forestry</a>.\n\nIndividual retail investors cannot buy green bonds directly. Bonds are mostly sold to institutions such as pension funds. Still, you can invest in exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and mutual funds that include green bonds in their offerings. By investing in these funds and getting broad exposure to green bonds, you are helping finance green projects and helping speed up the transition to better ways of living.\n\nInvesting in green bond funds can be a part of your overall sustainable investment strategy.',summary:"Green bonds finance sustainable projects like clean transportation and clean energy. Investing in green bond funds can be a part of your overall sustainable investment strategy.",additionalResources:"https://www.climatebonds.net/market/explaining-green-bonds\nhttps://www.worldbank.org/en/news/feature/2021/12/08/what-you-need-to-know-about-ifc-s-green-bonds\nhttps://www.climatebonds.net/market/second-opinion",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@techdailyca'>Tech Daily</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recV2213wrDpzhsXG",id:202,slug:"202-divest-yourself-from-fossil-fuels",title:"Divest yourself from fossil fuels",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/202-divest-yourself-from-fossil-fuels",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU","reckPsoCCKKwVNpip","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","recNcr0wYX2l94xJu"],tips:'⢠The <a href="https://fossilfreefunds.org/">Fossil Free Funds</a> website tends to focus on the United States and globally oriented funds. If you cannot find your funds, it may be because of this. One option is to find similar funds to the ones you have by comparing the types of companies included in the fund. Once you get a sense of the types of funds that do and do not include fossil fuel companies, you can hopefully figure out where you stand.\n\n⢠Keep tax implications in mind when moving your funds around. If your money is in a retirement pension account, there will likely be no tax implications. If it is not, then look into what the impact may be. In either situation, investigate ahead of making transactions to avoid any surprises.\n\n⢠Does someone help manage your portfolio? Share the Fossil Free Funds tool with them so they can help develop a plan to move your money as needed. If they are unwilling or unable to help transition away from polluting companies, maybe it is time to find a new advisor.\n\n⢠If your investment options are limited because your funds are tied to where you work or for another reason, it will take more effort than if you have a personal investment account that you solely control. You will need to engage the plan administrator to include funds that exclude polluters. This may require building a coalition of other plan participants and key decision-makers. On one hand, it could be too big of a barrier to overcome, but if you can, positive changes will happen on a larger scale.\n\n⢠It is critically important to consider the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/expenseratio.asp">expense ratio</a> of any fund you invest in. This is how much money the fund manager takes annually to manage the fund. Anything above 0.50% is extremely high and will cost you a tidy fortune over the years.',description:'Do you own stocks or mutual funds? Perhaps as part of your retirement or pension portfolio? Do you know if your savings are invested in fossil fuels? There is a <a href="https://fossilfreefunds.org/">simple tool called Fossil Free Funds</a> to help figure that out!\n\nSearch the mutual funds in your portfolio to see if they include polluting companies. If it turns out they do, then Fossil Free Funds helps find other options. Once you know
1where you stand, you can start to move your money to investments that are not detrimental to our future prosperity.\n\nIt might be better for your investments as well. Energy stocks, which are mostly made up of oil and natural gas companies, were one of the <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2019/12/18/investing/worst-stocks-oil-energy/index.html">biggest losers of the 2010s</a> decade. If we rally together to address climate change, then that trend will likely continue.',summary:"Many investment options are tied to fossil fuels. Use online tools to check your portfolio, and switch to fossil fuel-free options. Research tax implications and work with your advisor to make greener investments.",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@chrisleboutillier'>Chris LeBoutillier </a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec4INtWdKRcW19Es",id:212,slug:"212-review-eco-friendly-businesses",title:"Review eco-friendly businesses",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/212-review-eco-friendly-businesses",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recQ6iqk24u9rWGRV","reckASkV5dmw7uyKu","recMBGpebYqDDR93M"],tips:"⢠If you do not have time to write long reviews, then simply write short ones. Multiple concise reviews for a range of products and services will generally have a bigger impact than one single novel-length review.\n\n⢠Think broadly about the types of things you might review. That might include an eating spot with lots of delicious plant-based options, a shop that has an amazing selection of recycled products, a green-friendly product online that makes your life better, or a place that minimizes plastic waste in their course of business.\n\n⢠Think about different lenses to apply to your reviews. For example, many people are looking for the MOST environmentally friendly product and are concerned about packaging. Leaving a review about a company that does an exceptionally good job in their packaging will encourage other buyers to use that supplier and encourage the supplier to continually improve their product.\n\n⢠As you write more reviews on a particular platform your reviews will likely have a bigger impact and be seen by more people. The algorithms for review sites tend to promote reviewers that are more active on their site.\n\n⢠Write from your individual perspective. Keep it honest and stick to the facts to help others understand where you are coming from to enhance the usefulness of your review.\n\n⢠Focus on the relevant details and leave out the extras. Set up the situation so readers can identify with the experience. For example, you might include the date you went to a restaurant or shop, why you were doing so, and lay out the information to set up your complaint or compliment. Trim out other details that a typical reader likely will not find important.\n\n⢠Check your spelling, use complete sentences, and go easy on the exclamation points! :-)",description:"More than ever people rely on online reviews and ratings to make decisions on the products they buy, restaurants they visit, and experiences they try. The more eco-friendly places are reviewed, the easier it is for others to find them. Add your voice to help build up the businesses that are sustainably operating and call out the ones that are not.",summary:"Help promote eco-friendly businesses by leaving concise, honest reviews on various platforms to encourage others to try them out.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://lifehacker.com/how-to-write-genuinely-useful-reviews-online-5885607",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@glvrdru'>Maxim Ilyahov</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec1RqWoi5xmriEUy",id:213,slug:"213-share-climate-change-articles",title:"Share climate change articles",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396265/actions/213-share-climate-change-articles.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth","Friends & Family"],related:["rec7niZRq
1sTueFn2J","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX"],tips:"⢠Choose established news outlets, universities, government agencies, scientific organizations, and peer-reviewed research. Clear sourcing helps readers assess and trust the information.\n\n⢠Look for examples of how climate change affects your area and nature, as well as what communities are doing to create positive change.\n\n⢠Consider including a quick note explaining why you chose the article or what stood out to you.\n\n⢠Be cautious when a company, government, or organization makes vague or unsupported environmental claims. Check whether the article provides evidence and independent sources. Keep a critical eye. As you learn more, misleading environmental claims will become easier to spot.",description:'Sharing articles is a fantastic way to educate people about climate change, and it has multiple benefits.\n\nPeople cannot know what they have not learned. Sharing articles on social media or directly can help people understand what climate change is, what causes it, how it affects us and the planet, and, most importantly, what we can do about it.\n\nSharing accurate information can even influence people who are skeptical about climate change. A <a href="https://news.osu.edu/science-coverage-of-climate-change-can-change-minds--briefly/">study</a> found that accurate science reporting improved climate beliefs and support for action across political groups, including among people who initially rejected human-caused climate change. However, these changes faded quickly and could be reversed by later misinformation. The takeaway is to share accurate science clearly and consistently.\n\nOn the other hand, for those already concerned about climate change, the doom and gloom of the science can become overwhelming. <a href="https://climatecommunication.yale.edu/publications/climate-change-psychological-distress-prevalence/">Climate distress</a> can affect peopleâs well-being and, at serious levels, their ability to participate in climate efforts.\n\nOne way to help is to share credible stories about solutions and progress. Research on <a href="https://www.solutionsjournalism.org/resources/solutions-journalism-stories-boosts-pro-environmental-behavioral-intentions">solutions journalism</a> suggests that stories examining responses to climate problems can increase positive feelings, collective efficacy, and intentions to take pro-environmental action.\n\nShare articles about both the seriousness of the climate crisis and credible efforts to address it. Accurate information can educate people, while stories of collective action can show that progress is possible and that everyone can be a part of the solution to climate pollution.',summary:"Share accurate, compelling climate articles to educate others and inspire action. Choose reputable sources, highlight solutions as well as challenges, and watch for greenwashing.",additionalResources:"https://news.un.org/en/news/topic/climate-change\n\nhttps://www.cnn.com/climate\n\nhttps://www.bbc.com/future-planet \n\nhttps://happyeconews.com/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@christinhumephoto">Christin Hume</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recj3KDSYRkAtCemX",id:214,slug:"214-like-comment-share",title:"Like, comment, share",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/214-like-comment-share",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recLrj08m8jLLCqZL","recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0"],description:"When you like, comment, or share a social media post it signals the importance of it and has a positive ripple effect.\n\nThese platforms have algorithms that boost posts that attract more interaction. A simple tap helps spread positive environmental messages broader and encourages the original poster to do more of them.\n\nAs we collectively engage, more and more people will hear those messages, and the culture of our society will advance forward.",summary:"Engage with social media posts by liking, commenting, and sharing to boost positive messages and encourage more of them. Be a ripple that leads to a big impact b
1y spreading important information and shaping online discourse for the better.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@dole777'>dole777</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recH5ooOH1daHjuXn",id:215,slug:"215-manage-your-fridge-and-freezer",title:"Manage your fridge and freezer",categories:["Energy","Food"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/215-manage-your-fridge-and-freezer",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recDcdivV8VHAhQjp","recp0Av5y51sJXRgT","recWcrXggNRbOJbbx","recKt7fcsgocrOOBY"],tips:"⢠Naturally, be smart about food safety. When reducing the temperature, be careful of food spoiling too quickly or it being too warm so bacteria grow quickly. Especially if you keep meat for a long time. Perhaps take it down a bit at a time and adjust as needed.\n\n⢠If you have two controls, you can set the refrigerator and freezer temperature separately. If it is not intuitive, check your appliance manual for instructions. It can usually be found online if needed.\n\n⢠Dusting around a large refrigerator might not be as easy, but you may discover that it has wheels on the bottom that help move it in and out of its location. Carefully give it a try and go slowly to avoid scratching the floor.\n\n⢠To fill up your refrigerator to three-quarters full, you can supplement with airtight reusable containers filled with water. This has the added benefit of stabilizing the temperature longer during a power outage.\n\n⢠Is your freezer mostly empty? Check out the Utilize your freezer action for tips on how you can save time, money, and food waste by stocking up!",description:'Your refrigerator and freezer are likely <a href="https://css.umich.edu/factsheets/carbon-footprint-factsheet">among the highest energy consumption appliances in your home</a>, especially if they are old! However, you can help them run more efficiently by setting an optimal temperature and using them wisely.\n\nIn most refrigerators and freezers you have the option to adjust the temperature setting. To make your appliances as energy-efficient as possible, strike a balance between setting the temperature low enough to keep your food fresh and minimize food waste (also a factor in climate change), and high enough to decrease energy consumption.\n\nYou can help them run more efficiently by doing a few small things. First, check the seals on the door and ensure the cold is not sneaking out. It is likely fine, but repair as needed.\n\nSecond, semi-regularly clean behind and underneath the refrigerator to maintain airflow if you can access them without too much trouble. Most importantly, dust off the coils or filters where the air flows. This helps them run smoother and last longer.\n\nThird, do not under or over-fill your appliance. If you are under-filling, the cold air escapes more quickly when you open the door. Maybe you can downsize to use less energy? On the other hand, overfilling makes it more challenging for air to circulate and cool everything down. For increased efficiency, keep your appliance <a href="https://www.thekitchn.com/one-mindless-kitchen-habit-thats-costing-you-money-22956481">around three-quarters full</a>.\n\nFourth, regularly defrosting your freezer is an effective way to reduce electricity consumption, as frost build-up makes your appliance work harder to maintain the right temperature. Even a small layer of ice can increase energy use by up to 10%, and heavy frost can raise it by as much as 30%. By keeping your freezer frost-free, you help it run more efficiently, saving both energy and money while extending the applianceâs lifespan.',summary:"Your refrigerator and freezer are among the highest energy-consumption appliances in your home. Adjust the temperature setting to strike a balance between freshness and energy consumption.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"\n",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@kevin_turcios'>kevin turcios</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0GPYHDDkik8or3",id:219,slug:"219-help-whale-conservation",title:"Help whale conservation",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/219-help-whale-conservation",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect the Oceans"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Community & Institutions","Friends & Family"],related:["recOFb4YPqp1O9yMM","recSunfhRjiDx8qSY"],tips:"There are five methods to help whales thrive:\n\n1. Talk about and advocate for whale conservation regionally, nationally, and internationally. Specifically advocate against whale hunting and for fishing nets that allow whales to bypass. Help others become aware.\n\n2. Contact the International Whaling Commission. Write a letter to your country's representative on the International Whaling Commission (IWC). Visit the Humane Society International <a href=\"https://www.hsi.org/issues/whaling/\">website</a>. Then click the link to write a letter about closing the loophole that allows the continued killing of whales.\n\n3. Avoid products that contain whale meat. Japan ignores the International Whaling Commission statutes and sets its own quotas and standards for whaling. Meat from Japan's whale hunts is then packaged and sold on international markets.\n\n4. Join an organization that is actively working to stop practices that harm whales. You can become a member of a conservation organization with a small donation.\n\n5. Be a whale tourist if you live close to a coast. This helps you better appreciate these fellow mammals and supports businesses that have an interest in helping them thrive.",description:"Besides being the beautiful gentle giants of the oceans, whales help sequester enormous amounts of carbon pollution. They are huge animals that ingest a lot and mix up the oceans â creating phytoplankton blooms everywhere.\n\nFirst, phytoplanktons photosynthesize, i.e. convert carbon dioxide to oxygen. Second, when whales die they fall (majestically) to the ocean floor, taking the carbon in their bones and oil to the bottom where various life forms decompose the body and mix it into the ocean floor.",summary:"Whales play a crucial role in sequestering carbon in the oceans. To help improve their status, advocate for whale conservation and join a conservation organization.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.washingtonpost.com/science/2019/11/04/living-whales-are-worth-an-enormous-amount-money/?outputType=amp&fbclid=IwAR11hZeB-7RLjgRdtkIN9aQV2ZP1gib8KxwCvCpq0LiNgVskBLf3ydFdtzk\n\nhttps://www.unenvironment.org/news-and-stories/story/protecting-whales-protect-planet. \n\nhttps://www.imf.org/external/pubs/ft/fandd/2019/12/natures-solution-to-cl
1imate-change-chami.htm ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@guillepozzi'>guille pozzi</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recWcrXggNRbOJbbx",id:226,slug:"226-take-care-of-your-refrigerator-and-ac",title:"Take care of your refrigerator & AC",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/226-take-care-of-your-refrigerator-and-ac",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ðï¸ System Change","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recwunY3FjFoDttdh","rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l"],tips:"⢠If your unit is slowly losing its cool it is likely a sign of a leak that should be take care of right away. Have a repair person come out to take a look or take smaller units into a shop.\n\nThere are a few options for proper disposal of an old unit:\n\n⢠Check with your utility company to see if it offers an appliance-recycling program and whether you qualify for incentives. Some utility companies may offer you money or simply offer pickup service free of charge.\n\n⢠Check with your local government agencies if there are any local programs or systems in place to help with disposal. Search for agency names like Sanitary District, Public Works and Waste Management. You may be able to have your old unit picked up for free or at a nominal charge.\n\n⢠Contact local appliance retailers or AC contractors and ask if they have a removal program. Often they will properly dispose of an old unit when a new one is purchased through them.\n\n⢠Hire a professional to remove the HFCs with special tools. Many appliance stores or air conditioning companies can handle this. Then you can find any local scrap metal recycler to take the unit. Many of these scrappers cannot handle an old unit without the polluting chemicals escaping.",description:"It is critically important to ensure the chemicals in your refrigerator and air conditioning (AC) units (if you happen to have one) do not leak. Especially at the end of their life, make sure they are properly disposed of. These chemicals have 1000+ times the greenhouse gas potency of carbon dioxide, and yet most people have no idea.\n\nEvery refrigerator and air conditioner contains chemical refrigerants that absorb and release heat to enable chilling. Commonly used chemicals called hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) are particularly harmful at causing the Earth to overheat.\n\nAfter being carefully removed, these refrigerants can be purified for reuse or transformed, so they do not cause warming. If everyone managed their refrigerants properly, it would be the equivalent of taking 629 MILLION cars off the road!\n\nIn October 2016, world leaders met in Kigali, Rwanda and agreed to phase out HFCsâstarting with high-income countries in 2019, then some low-income countries in 2024 and others in 2028. Until less polluting options become more mainstream, be sure that your air conditioners and refrigerators are properly taken care of.",summary:"Ensure that your refrigerator and air conditioner do not leak harmful chemicals into the environment. When they are no longer useful, recycle them through proper recycling programs.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://onsitego.com/blog/tips-maintain-refrigerator/ \n\nhttps://www.directenergy.com/learning-center/air-conditioner-maintenance-tips-summer ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@chromatograph">Chromatograph</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recnp9enyjYEQy0oh",id:227,slug:"227-unsubscribe-from-email-lists",title:"Unsubscribe from email lists",categories:["Stuff","Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/227-unsubscribe-from-email-lists",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","â³ Saves Time","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec65E6Q1VseBL4d7","recKFKY0izr0abNfO","rec7OJQlq23vKevfr"],tips:'⢠Your email provider may give you handy unsubscribe links at the top of individual emails. Take advantage of these to take yourself off lists as new emails come in.\n\n⢠Do you have a massive amount of lists that you need to unsubscribe from? There are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=automatically+unsubscribe+from+email+lists">various apps available to help make this process easier</a>. Some are free, though you need to temporarily give the tool access to your emails. Some cost a small fee.\n\n⢠This action is not about eliminating all email lists from your life. If there are ones you enjoy or are important, keep on receiving from them. This is simply about tidying up the rest that are of no value.',description:"Nobody likes to receive annoying spam emails or unwanted promotions from email lists. Did
1you know that this annoyance is detrimental to the environment? These emails require energy to be sent and received, which is not sustainable unless powered by a clean energy source. Unfortunately, the majority of these companies do not use entirely clean energy.\n\nUnsubscribing from these lists reduces the amount of energy generated in two places: 1) wherever the email is sent from and 2) the device that receives the email.\n\nPlus, it saves you time looking at emails and from being sucked into buying stuff that does not make your life better! So, simply go ahead and unsubscribe to improve your well-being a bit. This likely will not save you much, but it will reduce the energy used and have a positive impact on your life and polluting emissions.",summary:"Unsubscribing from unwanted emails saves a little energy and reduces clutter in your inbox. Unsubscribe links or apps simplify the process, preserving your time and the planet.",additionalResources:"https://www.goclimate.com/blog/the-carbon-footprint-of-servers/\n\nhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-01-25/cutting-back-on-sending-emails-could-help-fight-global-warming",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@travelpen'>Lindsey LaMont</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recxH7XK36zO56CRt",id:229,slug:"229-try-eating-vegetarian-for-a-month",title:"Try eating vegetarian for a month",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/229-try-eating-vegetarian-for-a-month",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","recJdIfA2i2gx05Gp","recEb5reGCF6UjW9f"],tips:"⢠Fasten your belts and embark on a fascinating new sensory pathway that will nourish your soul as much as your taste buds. This is an excuse to try out some new foods. Some will be fantastic new finds that become a part of your life from now on. Others will not that you will never touch again. In either case, have fun with it.\n\n⢠Reflect on the foods you eat now. Chances are that many of your favorite options are vegetarian. Rely on these go-to options as a good foundation to build on.\n\n⢠If you slip up, do not worry about it. That is normal. This is not about perfection. It is about trying things out and figuring out what works for you and makes your life better.\n\n⢠Is there a friend or family member who could be open to trying this with you? Why not ask them if they are up for it so you have someone to share ideas and experiences with? It also gives an excuse to chat and connect!",description:"Understand the health, environmental, and ethical reasons to cut meat out of your diet, but not sure if it works for you? That is entirely understandable. Eating meat is a habit that has been part of your life for a long time.\n\nWhy not go veg for a month and see how it goes? Trying a new diet for a month is a fantastic way to test it out. Maybe it works. Maybe it does not. At least you will know after giving it a go. Along that journey, you can experience the impact on your health, energy, and taste buds to tell the tale on the other side!",summary:"If you are unsure about cutting meat from your diet, why not try vegetarian for just one month? Use the time to explore fun new dishes and discover what works for you.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@pixzolo'>Pixzolo Photography</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEb5reGCF6UjW9f",id:230,slug:"230-go-vegetarian",title:"Go vegetarian",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/230-go-vegetarian",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð§ Preserve Water","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","recpKMlPlKT86K55r","recNI7BYRh1VeqwjT"],tips:'⢠Fasten your belts and embark on a fascinating new sensory pathway that will nourish your soul as much as your taste buds. Once you leave meat behind, your tastes change â and you become much more aware of spices and flavorings.\n\n⢠It is easier than ever to become vegetarian â and healthier. Grains, beans, and vegetables are rich in protein and iron. Green leafy vegetables, beans, lentils, tofu, and nuts are excellent sources of calcium. Regular intake of vitamin B-12 is important, however, either from fortified foods or supplements.\n\nSome ideas to consider to help you on your journey:\n\n1) Think of three vegetarian meals that you already enjoy. Common ones are vegetable stir-fry, vegetable stew, or pasta primavera. Plus do not forget about french fries!\n\n2) Think of three recipes you prepare regularly that can be adapted. For example, a favorite chili recipe can be made replacing meat with beans. Enjoy bean burritos and veggie burgers instead of hamburgers, and thinly sliced, grilled eggplant and roasted red peppers instead of grilled chicken in sandwiches. Many soups, stews and casseroles can be made with simple changes.\n\n3) From burgers to butter, there is now an incredible array of genuinely delicious vegetarian substitutes in mainstream supermarkets.\n\n4) Check out some veggie
1cookbooks and experiment with recipes until you find three new ones that are easy to make and delicious.\n\n5) For breakfast, try muffins with fruit spread or cereals with rice, oat or almond milk. Sandwiches with spreads like hummus or white bean paté with lemon and garlic, pasta salads, or dinner leftovers make great lunches.\n\n6) Go international! There are many vegetarian dishes from multiple cultures â Indian, Vietnamese, Moroccan, and more.\n\n⢠It takes about three weeks to break or create a habit. Give it a try, enjoy and have fun!\n\nFor more information, this is a helpful <a href="https://www.vegsoc.org/info-hub/going-veggie/">veggie starter kit</a> and another detailed resource is the <a href="https://www.vrg.org/recipes">The Vegetarian Resource Group</a>.',description:'There is global scientific consensus: making the transition to a more plant-based diet, such as whole grains, seeds and nuts, legumes (beans, peas, lentils, soy derivatives), fruits and vegetables, is one of the most effective ways you can slow climate change, reign in habitat loss, and regenerate the health of our planet.\n\nIt also improves your own physical well-being by preventing and treating certain diseases and vegetarians <a href="https://time.com/9463/7-reasons-vegetarians-live-longer/">live longer</a>. Plus as a bonus, you save money from not buying expensive meat.\n\nYour dietary choice can contribute to global food availability and security, which is critical due to expected population growth. Replacing all animal-based items in the diet with plant-based alternatives will add enough food to feed a billion+ additional people! Animal-based foods are more resource and land-intensive.\n\nBecoming vegetarian can be a good stepping-stone on the way to a fully plant-based diet (i.e. vegan), or it can be a great place to end up: better for the planet and better for you.',summary:"Transitioning to a plant-based diet benefits the planet and improves health. Explore vegetarian options, experiment with recipes, and embrace a diverse range of plant-based foods to embark on a sustainable and nutritious journey.",additionalResources:"https://www.pnas.org/content/pnas/early/2019/10/22/1906908116.full.pdf\n\nhttps://digitalcommons.andrews.edu/pubs/648",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@lefterisk'>Lefteris kallergis</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recZgHBqz6h9z0tNH",id:232,slug:"232-give-a-public-climate-talk",title:"Give a public climate talk",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/232-give-a-public-climate-talk",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr","reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8"],tips:'⢠Get some inspiration from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=climate+change+presentation">watching others talk about the topic</a>. Just remember, everyone brings their own voice, so figure out what feels authentic to you.\n\n⢠If slide presentations are your thing, great climate slide decks are easier than ever to find online.\n\n⢠Consider speaking from different roles. For example, you can present some science, and then explain how it makes you feel (speaking as a human!) and then discuss some solutions (speaking as a citizen!). Climate science is not just for climate scientists anymore. It is your planet, too.\n\n⢠Allocate half the time for your talk, and half the time for discussion with the audience.\n\n⢠Q&A can be intimidating for inexperienced speakers. It is OK to say "That is a great question, but I do not know!" or "That is a great question, what do the rest of you think?" After a few talks you will realize Q&A is not scary, but is instead the most fun part of the evening.\n\n⢠Bring your unique angle to your talk â whatever that is for you.\n\n⢠Connecting with local climate action groups can help you prepare for a presentation. For example, the <a href="https://www.climaterealityproject.org/">Climate Reality Project</a> holds conferences globally that help people learn more about the climate emergency and prepare to give presentations. They have slides that you can use to craft your own presentation.\n\n⢠Above all, express whatever it is that climate breakdown has you feeling. Do not suppress, express!',description:"Talk about it! One of the most impactful things we can all do in response to the climate emergency is talk about it.\n\nWhile it is certainly good to talk casually to those you are with regularly, it is also great to give a formal, public talk. Local libraries, community centers, places of worship, schools, temples, workplaces, and many other venues would love to host your talk. The public is now hungry for knowledge. You can start the discussion.",summary:"Talking about climate change is crucial for raising awareness and driving action. Host public talks, engage with diverse audiences, and share your perspective to initiate discussions and inspire change.",additionalResources:"⢠A nice warm-up might be to talk with family members first. For example, tips on how to craft your message can be found at https://www.huffpost.com/entry/how-to-talk-to-your-paren_b_3556286.\n\n⢠https://skepticalscience.com/ provides the facts to help argue against climate denialism, if needed. Just make sure you phrase it in your own words, showing concern, and not with negative emotions.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@nycholasbenaia'>Nycholas Benaia</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recSsVdSgmdhhnafr",id:233,slug:"233-join-a-climate-action-group",title:"Join a climate action group",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/233-join-a-climate-action-group",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","re
1cZgHBqz6h9z0tNH","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0"],tips:"⢠There are many excellent groups you can join, depending on your interests and tolerance for risk. You can browse some options by tapping the button at the bottom of this screen. We also encourage you to talk to friends or community members who are already engaging in climate activism to figure out what the best fit is for you. You can also search for local groups online.\n\n⢠Participation can take so many forms â you do not even need to leave your house to support a climate action group! Different groups focus on different aspects of addressing climate change in a combination of lobbying politicians, giving climate presentations, contacting the media, organizing marches, and other ways to educate on the problem and solutions, while advocating for action.\n\n⢠Additional commitments can feel onerous in our sometimes busy lives; many climate action groups will welcome you for as much or as little input as you can give. Ask them what they need and the best way to get involved.",description:"Joining a climate action group is an outstanding way to amplify your voice. Our voices are most effective when we raise them together.\n\nYour new group will help you learn more about how to make an impact and provide you with resources, allies and confidence in your journey as a climate activist. Some of your newest fun friends may soon be climate activist buddies!",summary:"Join a climate action group to multiply your impact and hear about the latest ways to make a difference. Explore different groups and try out some to find the best fit.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@markusspiske'>Markus Spiske</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recanFEh19omYoHd5",id:234,slug:"234-install-an-electric-water-heater",title:"Install an electric water heater",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/234-install-an-electric-water-heater",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","rec5Xc2bqiRSx2mIZ","rec17VfEqUZwBlY4m"],tips:"⢠Replacing your water heater is a particularly good action to take if your heater is near the end of its life, which is generally 10â15 years.\n\n⢠Check for tax credits and programs in your area to reduce costs. These are fairly common depending on your locale to encourage the move away from polluting options.\n\n⢠Talk to friends in your community who have already replaced their water heater, to get recommendations for local contractors. Are you an early adopter in your community? No worries, you can do it and lead the way for others!\n\n⢠An electric heat-pump water heater is usually 30â50 percent more efficient than using an electric water heater. They tend to cost more upfront, but the overall cost is lower in the long run from lower energy usage and they tend to last longer.\n\n⢠Another alternative to consider is a solar water heater. Some locales now even require solar water heaters in new homes. The initial cost is higher, but from there the solar energy it runs on is absolutely free. Plus these systems have a longer lifespan than electric options.\n\n⢠If solar is not feasible, consider going to 100% renewable electricity if you have not made the change already. If not, the positive impact will not be as high.\n\n⢠If you are building a new house or doing a major renovation, look at heat recovery technology. Typically, 80â90 percent of the energy used to heat water goes down the drain. Heat exchangers capture some of the heat in drain water, allowing it to be reused by incoming water.\n\n⢠If you do not go with an on-demand heating system, install a timer along with your unit so water is only heated during times of the day when you need it. This avoids wasted energy and saves you money.\n\n⢠After you switch out your appliance, if possible, have the gas pipes removed as well. This makes your house safer and ensures that potential future owners will not undo your carbon pollution reduction work.",description:"Replace your water heater with an electric one to speed up the transition to a better world and home. Heating water is a major use of energy. Hot water for showers, laundry, and washing dishes consumes a quarter of our residential energy use. This is particularly impactful if your home is powered with renew
1able energy.\n\nBesides reducing pollution, an electric water heater is safer (no worry about explosions), saves money, saves space, and lasts longer than other options. With a tankless heater you also get the benefits of never running out of hot water and not needing to deal with flooding from a ruptured tank.\n\nSoon, humanity will leave fossil gas in the dustbin of history. Fossil gas (often called natural gas) is primarily methane. Because of leaks at every stage of extraction and processing and the very high climate impact of methane, burning fossil gas could be as bad for the climate as burning coal. Lower your fossil fuel usage and get on the right side of history.",summary:"Replace your fossil fuel burning water heater with an electric one to reduce energy use and climate pollution. Look for tax credits, consider a heat pump or solar option, and remove old gas pipes for a safer, more sustainable home.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/water-heating/replacing-your-water-heater\n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/heat-pump-water-heaters \n\nhttps://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/documents/fin_consumer_guide_water_heaters_en.pdf \n\nhttps://rmi.org/insight/home-energy-briefs-5-water-heating/ ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@ataheri'>Autri Taheri</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recUG8gaRDvPTCGkt",id:235,slug:"235-replace-a-gas-car-with-an-electric",title:"Replace a gas car with an electric",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/235-replace-a-gas-car-with-an-electric",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recBAF98XbIBO4pKe","recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7","rec5qybFlv6PdbOH7","recFIs17Sk9rZekTd","recFqOQwlutz8nEs9"],tips:"⢠Although they can be more expensive at first (unless you buy used), the maintenance and running costs are very low on an EV. There are no transmissions to break or oil to change. Plus charging costs are typically lower than buying fuel.\n\n⢠Check for tax credits to reduce the price even further. Many governments are incentivizing this to speed up the transition away from polluting energy.\n\n⢠EVs also typically maintain a great resale value.\n\n⢠Think about your driving habits when finding the best vehicle to meet your needs. Depending on your driving habits, you may be able to do all of your driving with a car that has a shorter charge range.\n\n⢠Good used electric cars from a few years ago are available at very affordable prices in most areas. Buying used cars avoids much of the embodied emissions still required to build a new car.\n\n⢠If you live in a rural area, or for longer road trips, you will need a car with a larger range. That said, fast-charging networks are now being built across many countries, so now even road trips are becoming a breeze.\n\n⢠Public charging stations can be found on many apps and websites.\n\n⢠An electrician can easily install a place to plug in an EV at your home. That is especially true if you plan to park near where your main electrical box is located. Many work locations now also have EV charging options nearby or onsite.\n\n⢠EVs have the greatest positive impact if charged with clean renewable electricity. Even if that is not an option in your area, EVs are clearly better for the environment than ICE vehicles, despite what propaganda from polluters may say.\n\n⢠The negative environmental impacts of mining for battery components do exist, but climate change will cause far more devastation worldwide than mining will. Also, massive research is being done on improving the efficiency of EV batteries, which, if they work, will reduce the need to mine. Plus EV cars have a long, long life, so there is less mining required for the steel (and plastic) and other components in order to replace the car in the future.\n\n⢠Driving an EV is a visible action that can cause others to change, plus it causes a cultural shift by speeding up infrastru
1cture changes.\n\n⢠Still hesitant? Take a ride in one and find out for yourself. Their acceleration, for instance, is often superior to ICE cars.",description:"Join the fastest-growing segment of the car market, and replace your internal combustion engine (ICE) car with an electric vehicle (EV) to reduce the pollution from burning dirty gas or diesel.\n\nNo more extra trips and breathing in fumes at the gas station â wake up every morning to a fully charged car. EVs are being found to have incredibly long lives â 25 years+, due to low needs for engine maintenance. Plus enjoy a more powerful, quiet, responsive, and overall better driving experience.\n\nIt is predicted by 2040 the EVs will make up well more than half of new car sales worldwide. This likely means resale values of EVs will be maintained or increase, as more buyers will seek EVs, and not carbon pollution-producing ICEs.",summary:"Switch to an electric vehicle to reduce climate pollution and enjoy a better driving experience. Look for tax credits and make the change to save time, and breathing in fumes, going to the gas station.",additionalResources:"https://www.cnet.com/roadshow/news/every-electric-car-ev-range-audi-chevy-tesla/ \n\nhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1361920917310295 \n\nhttps://about.bnef.com/blog/electric-vehicles-accelerate-54-new-car-sales-2040/ \n\n\n\n\n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@tchompalov'>Vlad Tchompalov</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recN7iwDXNIWm9Lky",id:237,slug:"237-non-violent-civil-disobedience",title:"Non-violent civil disobedience",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community"],earthPoints:75,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/237-non-violent-civil-disobedience",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8","recoSJ8NmAqfe2KE0","reck2JOxqUDqdAeAU"],tips:'⢠What are specific ideas that you can act on? <a href="https://peterlachnewinsky.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/120-methods-of-non-violent-civil-disobedience/">Here is a simple, extensive list</a> to start you thinking.\n\n⢠Consider joining with other to collectively coordinate and get involved. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extinction_Rebellion">Extinction Rebellion</a> and <a href="https://fridaysforfuture.org/">Fridays for Future</a> are great places to start, but there are hundreds of different organizations making a difference. There are different types for different interests. Take a look at the Earth Hero group finder to find a good option or two for you try out.\n\n⢠Research those who have been successful in the past. For example, listen to speeches from great leaders of the past for ideas and inspiration.',description:'Non-violent resistance is the practice of achieving social change through symbolic protests, civil disobedience, economic or political noncooperation, or other methods, while being nonviolent.\n\nâNon-violent direct action seeks to create such a crisis and foster such a tension that a community which has constantly refused to negotiate is forced to confront the issueâ â Martin Luther King Jr.\n\nIn a world that seems surrounded by turmoil it is good to remember that successful civil rights movements are rooted in nonviolent protest. The suffrage campaigner Susan B Anthony, the Indian independence activist Mahatma Gandhi, the civil rights campaigner Martin Luther King, and the reconciliator Nelson Mandela have all convincingly demonstrated the power of peaceful protest. Greta Thunberg has proven how effective this style of movement can be. She has done her part and it is time for us to do ours.\n\nA <a href="https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2019/02/why-nonviolent-resistance-beats-violent-force-in-effecting-social-political-change/">recent study by Erica Chenoweth</a> has shown it takes around 3.5% of the population actively participating in the protests to ensure serious political change. This is a relatively small number. We already have the support, we just need to mobilize the individuals.',summary:"Non-violent resistance promotes social change through peaceful means. Join up with a group that organizes events to amplify your impact and draw inspiration from past leaders for effective action.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recXx2j3YUFxIcJiv",id:238,slug:"238-change-search-engine-to-ecosia",title:"Change search engine to Ecosia",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/238-change-search-engine-to-ecosia",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ðï¸ Reduce Flooding","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec3URc8CRt6uq5fm","recUvO4y6GJHTjVlG","rec2TIPmuBK1R6x7J"],tips:'⢠Ecosia\'s search results are based on Bing (Microsoft) and enhanced by its own algorithms.\n\n⢠It is available as a web browser, mobile app, or by simply going to their <a href="https://www.ecosia.org">
1website</a>.\n\n⢠It can also be integrated into many other browsers by going to <a href="https://www.ecosia.org">ecosia.org</a>.\n\n⢠Ecosia is a privacy-friendly search engine. Searches are encrypted, not stored permanently, and data is not sold to third-party advertisers, unlike the typical search engine business model.\n\n⢠Sometimes searches are not as effective as the typical search engine you might use. For that one out of twenty situation you can still pop back to cross-reference results using a different search engine.',description:'The Ecosia Search Engine puts all of its profits into tree-planting reforestation projects. Since being founded in 2009 they have planted hundreds of millions of trees. These projects are typically in communities that would be disproportionately impacted by climate change.\n\nThey also built their own solar plants so their servers are powered with 100 percent renewable energy. That is a big deal because servers use a lot of energy. The internet uses around 150 gigawatts of electricity every year, which amounts to <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-018-06610-y">around five percent of all electricity worldwide</a>.\n\nIs it as impactful as installing solar panels on your home? Certainly not, but all things equal it is an easy climate action to take. Join as one of the millions of users (and growing).',summary:"The Ecosia search engine invests all of its profits into tree planting to combat climate change. Make the switch to Ecosia to join millions of others to improve our planet with this simple habit change.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec7amzmOWji20WKQ",id:240,slug:"240-cook-with-electricity",title:"Cook with electricity",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/240-cook-with-electricity",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","rec26ToRO9VSC5XF8","recfg3cKIppxOw5U3"],tips:"⢠Electric ovens tend to cost less than gas ones. They often come with little setup and adjustments needed in the kitchen. Depending on your kitchen setup, you can simply plug it into an existing outlet.\n\n⢠Consider newer technology induction stove tops. These offer the best cooking experience of any option thanks to the ability to adjust cooking temperatures and to quickly bring liquids to a boil. However, they tend to be more expensive and may require a new electrical wire to be run from your electrical box. They use magnetism, so if a magnet sticks to your current pots and pans they will work fine.\n\n⢠Talk to friends in your community who already use electricity for cooking to find out the pros and cons, and get recommendations for local contractors if needed.\n\n⢠After you switch out your appliance, if possible, have the gas pipes removed as well. This makes your house safer and ensures that potential future owners will not undo your pollution-reducing work.",description:'Replace your gas cooktop, oven, or range with an electric one to shift away from polluting methane (natural gas). This is particularly impactful if your home is powered by clean energy already.\n\nMany professional chefs prefer electric ovens. Gas burns at a hotter temperature than electric ovens, releasing moisture that is not great for roasting. In addition, you need to rotate your meals more often in a gas oven than in an electric to prevent burning.\n\nGas ovens and cooktops also create more indoor air pollution in the form of PM2.5 (one of the deadliest air pollutants), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and formaldehyde. Gas stoves are exposing <a href="https://www.vox.com/energy-and-environment/2020/5/7/21247602/gas-stove-cooking-indoor-air-pollution-health-risks">tens of millions of people to levels of air pollution in their homes that would be illegal outdoors</a>.\n\nSoon, humanity will leave dirty fossil gas in the dustbin of history. Fossil gas (also known as natural gas) is primarily methane. Leaks at every stage of extraction and processing add to methane\'s already high climate impact.\n\n
1Many local governments around the world now require new construction to have no methane connections whatsoever. Make the switch to improve your air quality and eliminate worrying about leaky gas line explosions.',summary:"Switch to an electric oven or cooktop to reduce indoor air pollution and to reduce climate pollution. Consider an induction stove top and convection oven for the best cooking experience.",additionalResources:"https://www.forbes.com/sites/sherikoones/2019/02/11/why-go-induction/#664e9be22492\n\nhttps://www.consumerreports.org/ranges/skip-pro-style-range-if-you-want-to-cook-like-a-pro/ \n\nhttps://www.consumerreports.org/electric-induction-ranges/pros-and-cons-of-induction-cooktops-and-ranges/ ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@hannahbusing'>Hannah Busing</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recLB5GTn4LBDXaHU",id:241,slug:"241-heat-with-electricity",title:"Heat with electricity",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/241-heat-with-electricity",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","rec5MSNRXrfAgbfba","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ"],tips:"⢠Replacing your fossil-fueled furnace is a particularly good action if your furnace or boiler is older than 20 years. If it is 10â20 years old, the decision to replace it is a judgment call based on its age, size, condition, and performance.\n\n⢠Talk to friends in your community who have already replaced their furnace, find out all the pros and cons, and get recommendations for local contractors.\n\n⢠Hiring a highly qualified home heating contractor can help you evaluate your existing system within the context of your region and determine the best actions to take. Look for one that specializes in electric heating options.\n\n⢠Consider your options between an electric heat pump and an electric furnace. The heat pump is generally the more efficient and cost-effective option, but that can vary for your particular situation.\n\n⢠A heat pump draws heat from the outdoors (even if itâs cold) and transfers that heat via pressurized refrigerant lines into your home. An electric furnace generates heat in much the same manner that a hairdryer would, by blowing air over a hot element.\n\n⢠Heat pumps run more efficiently, and can use up to 50 percent less electricity. They also can double as air conditioners, so there is no need to install a separate unit for that.\n\n⢠A heat pump can draw warmth from air that is below freezing, but as the temperature drops, heat pumps become less efficient. If you live an area that often gets well below freezing in the winter, then you make sure you get a model that is designed for that.\n\n⢠Before taking this action, consider switching to 100% renewable electricity if you have not already, to have the largest positive impact.\n\n⢠One potential way to save money on your installation is to do it in the middle of summer when business can be slow for heating contractors.\n\n⢠After you switch out your furnace, if possible, have the gas pipes removed as well. This makes your house safer and ensures that potential future owners will not undo your carbon reduction modernization work.",description:"Replace your fossil-fueled furnace with an electric furnace or heat pump. Electric heating units reduce pollution, cost less to install, are safer (no exploding gas or carbon monoxide to worry about), are easier to maintain (fewer moving parts), and tend to last longer.\n\nSoon, humanity will leave fossil gas in the dustbin of history. Fossil gas (commonly known as natural gas) is primarily methane. With leaks at every stage of extraction and processing added to the very high climate impact of methane, burning fossil gas could be as bad for the climate as burning coal.\n\nTo speed up the transition to cleaner energy, municipalities around the world are starting to require new construction to have no methane (natural gas) whatsoever.",summary:"To reduce climate pollution, replace your fossil-fueled heating system with an electric one. Heat pumps are the most efficient option and will likely save you money in the long run.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/heating-systems/buying-tips ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@iankeefe'>
1Ian Keefe</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reckASkV5dmw7uyKu",id:242,slug:"242-review-earth-hero",title:"Review Earth Hero",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/242-review-earth-hero",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["rec4INtWdKRcW19Es","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","recbZ37suKx4ILbZQ"],tips:'⢠You can review the app in the app store by following this <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earthheroorg.earthhero">link</a>.\n\n⢠The review can be short or long. Share whatever works for you and whatever you have on your mind.\n\n⢠It is easy to update your review later if you want to change it.\n\n⢠We read every review. If you have questions you can even add them in the review, and we can respond to them in the app store.',description:'Are you enjoying the Earth Hero experience? What new features would like to see next? Write a review of Earth Hero in the <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earthheroorg.earthhero">app store</a> to help us prioritize what to improve.\n\nYour review also helps other people find the app and grow our collective positive impact. Search algorithms in the app stores are based on the rating, number of reviews, and words used.',summary:"Are you enjoying the Earth Hero experience? Please review Earth Hero in the app store to help us improve, make it easier for people to find Earth Hero, and grow our collective impact.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMMtKwBy1g1CZCV",id:243,slug:"243-turn-off-pilot-light-in-summer",title:"Turn off pilot light in summer",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/243-turn-off-pilot-light-in-summer",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recmfK7eHweleLT9M","recM9OqoQ8AJmaLRA","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ"],tips:"⢠Luckily, it is now becoming more common to light a burner electrically on stoves and s
1ome other appliances. However, pilot lights are still used when a high-energy ignition source is necessary, usually on fireplaces and furnaces.\n\n⢠Check out your user manual to see if they use a pilot light. Having trouble finding your manual? Search online with the model number. Most devices have a simple valve to shut off the pilot light.\n\n⢠Mark your calendar for the end of the heating season. It is easy to remember to turn it on, but you might forget to turn it off each year.",description:'A pilot light is a small flame that serves as an ignition source for a more powerful burner, such as water heaters, stoves, dryers, refrigerators, fireplaces, and heaters/boilers. Even when not in use for months, a pilot light traditionally has been kept permanently alight, but, frankly, this is wasteful. In domestic heating systems with pilot lights, it has been estimated that <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pilot_light">sometimes close to half of the total energy usage</a> is actually from the pilot light.\n\nPilot lights also create a small amount of heat as a by-product. While this is not so bad in the winter when you need heat, it will contribute heat to your house in hotter months. Pilot lights also put out a small amount of fumes that are usually not drawn into a venting system â a double-whammy.\n\nYou can lower your yearly usage of energy on these types of appliances by shutting off the pilot light during the times of the year that you do not use them. Starting them back up again in winter can be as easy as lighting a match.',summary:"Pilot lights waste energy when left on continuously. Save money, fumes in your home, and climate pollution by turning off pilot lights during unused months.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/lighted-match-with-smoke-on-black-background-54627/'>
1Photo by Pixabay</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ",id:245,slug:"245-upgrade-to-solar-water-heater",title:"Upgrade to solar water heater",categories:["Energy","Home & Work","Resilience"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/245-upgrade-to-solar-water-heater",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recanFEh19omYoHd5","recUG8gaRDvPTCGkt"],tips:"⢠Replacing your water heater is a particularly good action to take if it is near the end of its life, which is generally 10â15 years.\n\n⢠There are many different solar water-heating systems to consider. Your local climate will generally determine which system you should use. Having an integrated solar water heater with an electric backup system is generally advisable.\n\n⢠Talk to friends in your community who have already replaced their water heater, find out all the pros and cons, and get recommendations for local contractors.\n\n⢠Are you an early adopter in your community? No worries, you can do it and lead the way for others!\n\n⢠Search online for or check the directory of local green building or accredited energy-efficient contractors.\n\n⢠It is generally good to talk with two or three contractors to get a good sense of options and prices.\n\n⢠Especially if you are building a new house or need to do a major renovation, request a quote for drain water heat recovery technology. Typically, 80â90 percent of the energy used to heat water in the home goes down the drain. Heat exchangers capture some of the heat in drain water, allowing it to be reused by incoming water.\n\n⢠Make sure the contractor includes in the proposal: (i) independently certified energy-efficient products, with the high ratings; (ii) installation of the equipment and insulation if needed; (iii) proper disposal of the old unit.\n\n⢠When evaluating bids, also look at what you get for the price: quality, energy savings, and warranty.\n\n⢠After your switch out your appliance, if you were using natural gas, have the gas pipes removed as well. This makes your house safer and ensures that potential future owners will not undo your carbon reduction work.\n\n⢠It is possible that it is not economically attractive to install the system depending on where you live. Feasibility depends on many variables such as where you live, if the area has adequate solar exposure year-round, and how many people live in your house.\n\n⢠If solar is not feasible, consider installing a high efficiency electric water heater instead.",description:"Water heating is a major energy user. As we use hot water for our showers, laundry and washing dishes, collectively, we are consuming a quarter of our residential energy worldwide.\n\nBy changing to a solar water heating system you shift that energy to a clean renewable source and reduce the burden on the electrical grid, which often is powered in part by polluting sources of energy.\n\nThis action takes some upfront investment and depends on home ownership or a very good landlord relationship. But in the long run, it will end up saving you energy by using the ever-present power of the sun.",summary:"Switch to solar water heating to reduce energy consumption and reliance on polluting sources. Consider the upfront investment and talk to local contractors for advice and options.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/water-heating/replacing-your-water-heater\n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/solar-water-heaters \n\nhttps://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/documents/fin_consumer_guide_water_heaters_en.pdf",amountSavings:"$"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reci2p0vOh6SFplRG",id:246,slug:"246-analyze-your-water-use",title:"Analyze your water use",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/246-analyze-your-water-use",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recanFEh19omYoHd5","re
1cLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ","rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","reconMHOliIsRFff2","recm4H5TLXQFiuCue","recQNWGGDX5N1Or5z","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi","recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA"],tips:'In our often intense daily routines, sometimes we do not stop to observe how we use our faucets and the lengths of our showers. So, now is a great moment to see your home with fresh new eyes! Here are ways to get the most value and comfort, while reducing your hot water use.\n\n⢠First, start looking at and comparing your monthly water and energy bills, and keep track of the impact. In many cases they have specific metrics on exactly how much energy and water you are using.\n\n⢠Next, inspect faucets for leaks. If there are leaks, think about repairing or replacing them. A leak of one drip per second accumulates to 20,000 liters each year and will cost you a lot of money.\n\n⢠Some water utilities can set up an alert notification if your usage suddenly increases. Look into setting this up.\n\n⢠Determine how long your showers are. Short showers (3â4 min) are better for the planet but figure out what works best for you.\n\n⢠Or better yet, skip a shower each day, and shower every other day. It is probably healthier <a href="https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/showering-daily-is-it-necessary-2019062617193">according to research</a>.\n\n⢠Do you turn off the faucet while washing your hands, brushing your teeth, or shaving? Some people do.\n\n⢠Do you defrost food in the fridge or on the counter (good), not by using warm water (not as good)?\n\nAnd so on. Start thinking of how you use water, and if you have a partner or roommate, ask them to help, and vice versa. Once you understand your behaviors you can begin to improve them.',description:"The use of water, but hot water especially, takes energy and causes emissions. Water use also will affect our ability to adapt to future droughts. Showers, laundry, and washing dishes, collectively account for a quarter of our residential energy use worldwide.\n\nSo, the question is, do you know how much hot water you use? Could you use less? This action focuses on you analyzing how much water you use so that you can start to think about how you want to act.",summary:"Review your home's water use, especially hot water, to discover ways to use it more efficiently. This will save you money, preserve this precious resource, and reduce climate pollution.",additionalResources:"https://www.aireserv.com/about/blog/2018/april/best-temperature-for-a-water-heater/\n\nhttps://sustainability.ncsu.edu/blog/changeyourstate/6-times-you-should-turn-off-the-tap-to-save-water/ ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@fikrirasyid'>Fikri Asyid</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reconMHOliIsRFff2",id:247,slug:"247-install-water-saving-shower-head",title:"Install water-saving shower head",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/247-install-water-saving-shower-head",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð§ Preserve Water","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","recQNWGGDX5N1Or5z","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi","rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","reciz4HP0Z5mYxOtn","recbaFHBx6x6zkqp6"],tips:"In our intense routines, sometimes we do not stop to observe how our showers are operating. So, now is a great moment to see your home with fresh eyes!\n\n⢠Measure the flow of your current shower head. Get a container that holds half a gallon or 2 liters. Open the shower. If it takes less than 20 seconds to fill the bucket the shower is a good candidate for a water-saving shower head.\n\n⢠When shopping, look for options that have green-building or low-water flow certification. This is a common option at stores with a good selection.\n\n⢠Most shower heads fit the same size of pipe and typically screw on and off with a little force. Take a look at yours to get a sense of if it is a straightforward replacement project or not before getting a new shower head.\n\n⢠A quick search online will bring up tutorials and videos on how to replace a showerhead. That will either help you proceed with full confidence or make the decision to call in help!",description:"Reducing hot water use is a
1nice step to increase the efficiency of your water heating system. It saves energy (and money), reduces emissions and helps conserve precious water resources, which is critical to preserve this precious resource and avoid straining infrastructure.\n\nDepending on the fixture, installing a water-saving showerhead avoids wasting over half the water during a refreshing shower. You may wonder: why should I give up taking a relaxing shower with a lower flow rate? You will not! Thankfully, the industry has developed technology that enables you to have a great shower with no compromise!",summary:"Install a water-saving shower head to save energy (and money), reduce climate pollution, and help conserve precious water resources. There are water-saving shower heads that enable you to have a great shower with no noticeable difference in water flow.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/water-heating/energy-saving-tips \n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/reduce-hot-water-use-energy-savings \n\nhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/showering-daily-is-it-necessary-2019062617193 ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@kevinbae'>Kevin Baquerizo</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recQNWGGDX5N1Or5z",id:248,slug:"248-add-low-flow-aerators-to-faucets",title:"Add low-flow aerators to faucets",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/248-add-low-flow-aerators-to-faucets",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","reconMHOliIsRFff2","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi","rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ","rec6zH93O6ZLwF1hX","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA","rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l","recanFEh19omYoHd5"],tips:'In our typical routines, sometimes we do not stop to observe how our faucets are operating. So, now is a great moment to see your home with fresh eyes!\n\n⢠The type of grill on the faucet determines the maximum flow rate of a faucet. Not sure if you have low-flow aerators already? Thereâs a quick and very simple way to check.\n\nGet a container that holds half a gallon or 2 liters. Open the faucet. If it takes less than 12 seconds to fill the bucket it makes sense to install a new aerator.\n\n⢠Many aerators simply screw off from the end of a faucet. Sometimes you can do it by hand. Sometimes you might need pliers or a wrench. If you can get yours off, it is handy to take with you to the store so you can match the correct replacement size.\n\n⢠If not, take a picture of your faucet and go to a hardware or other specialized store to ask whether you will be able to adapt a low-flow aerator. Alternatively you can consider replacing the faucet.\n\n⢠Look for options that have green-building or low-water flow certification. This is a common option at most stores with a good selection.\n\n⢠A <
1a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+replace+aerator">quick search online</a> will bring up tutorials and videos on how to replace aerators to help you proceed with full confidence.',description:"Installing low-flow aerators to your sink faucets is a great way stop wasting water and save energy from heating excess water. Plus it provides an excellent water flow experience.\n\nNew aerators are very affordable and installing one is often a matter of screwing the new one onto to the tip of your kitchen and bathroom sink faucets. The aerator grill infuses air into the water and makes a low flow of water more powerful. This, in turn, reduces hot water use, reduces carbon pollution, and saves you money.",summary:"Installing low-flow aerators on your sink faucets can save water, energy, and money. Check your faucets' flow rate and, if needed, replace the aerators for a more efficient water flow experience.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/water-heating/energy-saving-tips \n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating/reduce-hot-water-use-energy-savings\n\nhttps://www.epa.gov/watersense",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/skitterphoto-324082/">Rudy and Peter Skitterians</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi",id:249,slug:"249-shower-instead-of-bathe",title:"Shower instead of bathe",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/249-shower-instead-of-bathe",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","recQNWGGDX5N1Or5z","reconMHOliIsRFff2","rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","rec6zH93O6ZLwF1hX","rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l","recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA","recanFEh19omYoHd5"],tips:"You may wonder: why should I give up pleasurable and relaxing baths? This Action is an invitation for you to explore a different way to experience pleasure and relaxation. Give it a try and test yourself!\n\nBefore taking the shower, take a few long deep breaths and invite all your senses to be fully present during your shower.\n\nAs you open the shower, your mind may naturally wander thinking about urgent issues you need to do or remembering moments in the past. No problem. That is part of our wiring! When this happens, bring your attention back to the sensation of the flow of the water on your body. Especially the muscles of your neck and shoulders. Pay attention to the sounds of the water splattering. Feel the soap on your skin. Sense the smells.\n\nAfter this five-minute experience, you will certainly find your yourself energized, with more head space and ready to start your activities with a fresher mind.\n\nConsider looking into a massage showerhead to enhance the showering experience. There are many spray patterns to try wrapped into a single showerhead, such as rain, jet, aeration, and mist to name a few.\n\nIf showering compromises your comfort, perhaps it is not the right Action for you. Do not worry about it. Consider taking fewer baths when you can or focus on another Action.",description:"Taking a five-minute shower uses about a third of the water of a bath. As we use hot water for our showers or baths, we are not only using water, but energy from heating.\n\nReducing hot water use is a great step to decrease your resource use, as you are tackling two resources at once. Saving hot water saves energy (and money), reduces emissions, and helps conserve precious water resources. The last of which is a critical step in many parts of the world where supplies are scarce or infrastru
1cture is strained.",summary:"A five-minute shower uses about a third of the water of a bath. Save water, energy, and a little money by showering instead of b.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@curology'>Curology</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recI0aeyVJHfBz92D",id:252,slug:"252-save-a-green-space",title:"Save a green space",categories:["Outside","Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/252-save-a-green-space",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ Preserve Water","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð² Conserve Forests","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["reccNgLAi8Qk14fh4","rec76kDi5aFobGFRU","recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3"],tips:"⢠Research local planning law to identify ways you can object to development. Common objections include loss of biodiversity, playing fields, or community spaces.\n\n⢠Start a campaign group with local residents, businesses, and politicians. You will often have majority support against a few vested interests, so make the most of it!\n\n⢠Find local charities and nonprofits that support community action to stop the loss of our shared spaces.",description:"We are rapidly losing shared green space to private development. These spaces are our community meeting places, nature refuges, playgrounds and outdoor gyms. They improve water and air quality while providing a variety of mental and physical health benefits. Plus they are spaces for trees and other plants that act as a carbon sink to keep pollution out of the air. Let's save them together.",summary:"Shared green spaces are disappearing due to private development, threatening community well-being and environmental health. Take action to protect them by working with local residents, organizations, and politicians.",additionalResources:"https://planning-org-uploaded-media.s3.amazonaws.com/legacy_resources/cityparks/briefingpapers/pdf/physicalactivity.pdf",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mihaly_koles'>Mihály Köles</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recHlwfwXGrBy1KLd",id:254,slug:"254-switch-to-e-billing",title:"Switch to e-billing",categories:["Home & Work","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/254-switch-to-e-billing",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ Preserve Water","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec0KskaNZN3Qx5P8","recnp9enyjYEQy0oh","recMXKehK3GVBYBCg"],tips:"⢠Go for it now! Every time a bill comes to your home, go to that company and switch to e-billing immediately!\n\n⢠The same goes for your bank and all of your monthly statements if you still receive paper copies.\n\n⢠Do your emails tend to get lost in the shuffle? Consider setting up a separate email address for your household billing and finance.\n\n⢠Take advantage of the benefits of e-billing, such as setting up automatic payments. Save yourself the time and worry of needing to remember to pay your bills on time.\n\n⢠Have a less tech-savvy close friend or family member? Help them get set up with e-billing. If they can use a computer they can probably do e-billing with a little support. On the other hand, if you do not feel comfortable setting up e-billing, recruit someone to help!",description:"It is hard to believe that hundreds of billions of bills and updates are still sent out annually around the globe. That takes a lot of trees and energy to make happen.\n\nThe hurdles to e-billing are dropping away as more people embrace the technology and see the time-saving benefits. Plus the environmental arguments are simple: less paper waste and pollution.\n\nJoin the trend and simplify your life at the same time.",summary:"Switch to e-billing to save trees and time. Go paperless with your bills and statements to simplify your life and help our environment.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://finance.yahoo.com/news/americans-pay-more-half-bills-130000717.html",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@sharonmccutcheon'>Sharon McCutcheon</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0KskaNZN3Qx5P8",id:255,slug:"255-stop-receiving-junk-mail",title:"Stop receiving junk mail",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/255-stop-receiving-junk-mail",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð² Conserve Forests","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recHlwfwXGrBy1KLd","re
1cJqFITwtuU4navB","rec3N2A1xmcDxgGKr"],tips:"⢠Will you perfectly end receiving wasteful mail? Certainly not. Unnecessary items will still slip through. This is about making meaningful progress.\n\n⢠Figure out what is most effective to stop unwanted mail in your area. A simple online search about stopping junk mail should turn up good free or low-cost options to try.\n\n⢠There are generally three different paths to go down: 1) Work with your mail service, 2) sign up for do not mail lists, and 3) get off individual company lists. See below for more detail and options to try.\n\n⢠Here is a super simple trick that works in some locations â First, find a sticky note. Next, write on it that you no longer wish to receive unaddressed neighborhood mail. Then put that note where you receive your mail.\n\n⢠In some areas you can contact your post office directly or sign up with your address online to request that these not be delivered.\n\n⢠A quick search online will likely turn up services and databases that you can use to block junk mail and be taken off of lists. There may be free options, low-cost options, or more pricey approaches. Use your judgment on what works best for you.\n\n⢠If you open junk mail with a prepaid return envelope included, write a note along with a polite but firm request to remove you from the mailing list, and use the envelope to send it back.\n\n⢠If there is a toll-free number on the mailer, call the number and ask to be removed from the mailing list. Well-organized companies do not want to waste mailing to people who will never buy something, so they are generally accommodating.\n\n⢠If you are talking with friends or family, talk about your successes in stopping junk mail and encourage others to do the same. For elderly relatives, consider doing it for them!\n\n⢠To avoid getting on mailing lists in the first place, be wary of signing up for things and giving your mailing address information in the first place. For example, signing up for rewards cards you will never use, entering sweepstakes you never win or filling out warranty cards that do not require proof of purchase or receipt.\n\n⢠There is a movement to outlaw these types of deliveries in some areas. Let your local politicians know you support and care about this. People from all sides of the political spectrum agree that we create too much waste.",description:"Each year, billions of unaddressed flyers and junk mail are sent to homes with one purpose: to get you to buy stuff you do not need or really care about.\n\nThose flyers, catalogs, and letters require cutting down hundreds of millions of trees each year. That is cutting down the combined size of New York, Rio de Janeiro, Beijing, Paris, and Delhi every year. Some of those trees are harvested sustainably, and some is recycled, but many of those trees come from wild forests.\n\nPlus there is the burning of fossil fuels to make the paper, chemicals as dyes, and more fossil fuels to deliver them. Often plastics are added to part or all of the paper. Then, at best, the flyer or letter ends up in the landfill; at worst they encourage people to buy more stuff that creates the same waste.\n\nDo your part to stop the cycle. Plus it is nice to not need to look through all that junk mail and simplify your life!",summary:"Billions of wasteful flyers and junk mail are sent yearly. That requires cutting down hundreds of millions of trees each year and generates pollution. Take action to reduce unwanted mail and simplify your life.",additionalResources:"https://www.tentree.com/blogs/posts/how-to-stop-junk-mail \n\nhttps://www.catalogchoice.org \n\n⢠There is an app called PaperKarma, https://www.paperkarma.com/, that can stop 'addressed' JunkMail; you just take a photo of the sender's address, upload, and PaperKarma will contact them to unsubscribe you. It's free for the first month, but then requires a monthly fee. However, you can get a lot accomplished during that first month.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA",id:256,slug:"256-insulate-hot-water-pipes",title:"Insulate hot water pipes",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/256-insulate-hot-water-pipes",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reconMHOliIsRFff2","reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","recQNWGGDX5N1Or5z","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi","recLJzM5bmMEBaLlQ","rec45v4v1jRDzvC6l"],tips:"⢠Hot water pipe insulation is relatively inexpensive and pays for itself. A simple sleeve is placed over the hot water pipe and typically taped into place. A quick search online will show you how to do it and the options.\n\n⢠The project is easy to do yourself when your hot water pipes are exposed. For example, coming out of your water heater and in your basement (if you have one).\n\n⢠However, for pipes that are in the walls, it is likely not a project worth doing. In that case, keep the idea in mind for when there is another reason to open up a wall, such as a leak or a major remodel.",description:"Insulating your hot water pipes will reduce losses as the hot water flows to your faucet, and more importantly, it will reduce standby losses when the tap is turned off and then back on within an hour or so.\n\nWater heating is a significant energy use. As we use hot water for our showers, laundry and washing dishes, collectively, we are consuming a quarter of our residential energy use worldwide. Around 10% of the water heating energy in the typical house is lost in the distribution system. In a large house, distribution losses are even greater. It is a waste and like flushing money down the drain.",summary:"Insulating hot water pipes reduces energy loss, which saves you money and reduces climate pollution.",additionalResources:"https://smarterhouse.org/water-heating/energy-saving-tips\n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/services/do-it-yourself-energy-savings-projects/savings-project-insulate-hot-water-pipes",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/empty-subway-3416547/'>Photo by Mohan Reddy</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPrZlHalXTOWZPm",id:258,slug:"258-inflate-your-tires",title:"Inflate your tires",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/258-inflate-your-tires",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household","Indiv
1idual"],related:["rec5qybFlv6PdbOH7","recH5FOgvvzDnfyJH","recBAF98XbIBO4pKe"],tips:"⢠When it comes to having the correct tire pressure in your vehicle, this can vary slightly. A quick search online for your make and model should give the right target.\n\n⢠There are several ways to tell if your tire pressure is low. You can use a tire pressure gauge by removing the cap on your tire valve and inserting the gauge. Alternatively, some newer vehicles have their own tire pressure monitoring systems. In the worst-case scenario, if you notice decreased responsiveness and ride quality, it could be due to low tire pressure.\n\n⢠Changes in outside temperature can affect the pressure inside your tires. Check them regularly around changes of the seasons.\n\n⢠Over-inflating does not help. Tires are designed to be at a specific pressure. If you over-inflate your tires, it may deform them and change the contact surface with the road, leading to wear on the tire's surface. So again, your tires wear out sooner.",description:"Ensure your vehicle tires are properly inflated to increase your fuel efficiency, save money, and reduce pollution.\n\nUnder-inflated tires will cause your fuel economy to drop by an average of 0.4 percent for every PSI (pounds per square inch) drop from the recommended manufacturer tire pressure. This might seem like little. However, globally, light-duty passenger vehicles account for 50 quadrillion BTUs (British Thermal Units) of energy consumption annually. Sorry, I just like that number! Ha!\n\nWhat does that mean? Well, by losing 0.4 percent for an average of 1 PSI drop in tire pressure, that means that globally, we burn 655 million liters just because our tires are not inflated properly.\n\n(The math logic if you want to go there: Light-duty passenger vehicles use 50 quadrillion BTUs of gasoline annually, and 1 liter of gasoline = 30,489 BTU. Then 50 quadrillion BTUs/year divided by 30,489 BTU/liter = 1,639,935,714,519",summary:"Ensure your tires are properly inflated to save fuel, money, and reduce pollution. Check your tire pressure regularly and use a gauge to ensure they are at the recommended level.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=23832\n\nhttps://www.baileygreer.com/dangers-driving-inflated-tires/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@shotaspot'>Frank Albrecht</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recHW0dq2obIb1KZu",id:259,slug:"259-join-a-local-government-meeting",title:"Join a local government meeting",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/259-join-a-local-government-meeting",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recFlOl6qDJHRKQ83"],tips:'⢠Visit your local governmentâs official website and look for council, board, committee, planning, or town hall meetings related to climate, transportation, buildings, development, waste, or green spaces.\n\n⢠Join or follow local groups working on climate and related issues. They can help you understand upcoming decisions, find relevant meetings, and prepare to participate.\n\n⢠Subscribe to official meeting notices and follow a trusted local news source so you know what will be discussed and when.\n\n⢠Check the meeting rules in advance. You may need to register to speak, submit comments before a deadline, or follow a time limit. Also check whether virtual attendance or online viewing is available.\n\n⢠Use local policy guides online, such as this one on <a href="https://policy.friendsoftheearth.uk/insight/33-actions-local-authorities-can-take-climate-change">33 actions local authorities can take on climate change</a>, to make specific recommendations.\n\n⢠Prepare a clear message to deliver. Focus on one issue, briefly explain why it matters to the climate and your community, and ask leaders to take a specific action.\n\n⢠Attend the meeting and offer a public comment when possible. If you cannot attend, submit a written comment or contact your local representative by email or phone.\n\n⢠Track what happens after the meeting, thank leaders who support climate-friendly action, and encourage others to participate in future decisions.',description:'When we think about the system changes needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, we often focus on international agreements or national governments. While those efforts are important, many changes are planned, approved, funded, and implemented locally.\n\nLocal governments can influence transportation, building standards, land use, waste and water systems, public facilities, and green spaces. <a href="https://unfccc.int/news/seven-ways-cities-can-take-climate-action">More than 10,000 cities have committed to reducing their carbon emissions by 2050</a>. Turning those commitments into action requires local plans, budgets, and decisions.\n\nExamples can be found around the world. The Greater Copenhagen region connects communities through cycling infrastru
1cture such as the <a href="https://supercykelstier.dk/english/rute/farumruten/">Farum Route cycle superhighway</a>. <a href="https://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/infrastructure/streetlights.shtml">New York City has retrofitted almost all of its streetlights with energy-efficient LEDs</a>. London uses an <a href="https://www.london.gov.uk/programmes-strategies/environment-and-climate-change/pollution-and-air-quality/ultra-low-emission-zone-ulez-london">Ultra Low Emission Zone</a> to reduce pollution from vehicles.\n\nMeaningful action is not limited to large cities. Ashton Hayes, a small British community, <a href="https://www.goingcarbonneutral.co.uk/background/">reduced its carbon emissions by 40 percent</a> through community-led changes such as saving energy and improving home insulation, which also save residents a lot of money.\n\nBy attending meetings about infrastructure, transportation, buildings, development, waste, budgets, or green spaces, you can learn what is being proposed and tell local leaders what you support. You do not need to be an expert. A short, respectful comment explaining why an issue matters and requesting a specific action can make your position clear.\n\nConnecting with local organizations can make participating easier. Climate groups, neighborhood associations, conservation organizations, and walking, cycling, or public transportation advocates may track proposals, share meeting dates and deadlines, explain how public comments work, and help you identify opportunities to speak up.\n\nFind one meeting, put it on your calendar, and join the conversation. Local climate solutions start with local decisions. Your voice can help move them forward!',summary:"Attend a local government meeting and speak up for climate-friendly decisions. Your voice can help shape local choices about transportation, buildings, waste, energy, green spaces, and other environmentally friendly policies.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/fr/@jhonkasalo">Joakim Honkasalo</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0",id:260,slug:"260-thank-climate-change-trailblazers",title:"Thank climate change trailblazers",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/260-thank-climate-change-trailblazers",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions","Friends & Family"],related:["rec4INtWdKRcW19Es","reckASkV5dmw7uyKu","recKbqlT0ylqFOlKM"],tips:'Here are some opportunities to show gratitude. Figure out what works for you. Once you get into this mindset, you will likely discover many other ways over time!\n\n⢠Drop off a handwritten letter to a house that has installed solar.\n\n⢠If you run into someone planting trees or other plants that improve the area, say a simple thanks.\n\n⢠The same goes for someone throwing away litter, especially if you notice they take care of more than their own.\n\n⢠Give kudos to friends and family that get around by foot, bicycle, bus, train, or another low-impact way.\n\n⢠Echo and thank those who talk about or share ideas about better ways of living.\n\n⢠Send a message of praise on social media or directly to companies and small businesses that follow sustainable practices.\n\n⢠Write an online review of a restaurant that uses compostable or reusable takeout containers.\n\n⢠Put a note under the wiper of an electric car saying thanks for driving electric. Or perhaps, if you know an electric driver, ask them about how they like their vehicle.\n\n⢠Pick up the tab for someone when they order a vegetarian meal or use a refillable mug.\n\n⢠Email a âThank Youâ message to local leaders who make climate change projects happen.\n\n⢠Look online for even more creative ways to thank others, <a href="https://www.lifehack.org/articles/lifestyle/20-creative-ways-say-thank-you.html">like these ideas</a>.',description:'Social norms take time to shift, yet one way to encourage progress is by being vocal and supportive of those who intentionally make positive things happen. Not only does the act of expressing gratitude cultivate health and happiness, but it also <a href="https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/the_ripple_effects_of_a_thank_you">has an impact on the giver, receiver, and even those who witness an expression of gratitude</a>. Why not thank those early adopters in your community who are making an effort to go green and improve lives?',summary:"Encourage positive change by expressing gratitude to those making a difference. Show thanks to early adopters of green initiatives and sustainable practices that are improving our world.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@lmtrochezz'>Lina Trochez</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recVfv12OzI9c2oJh",id:262,slug:"262-avoid-bottled-beverages",title:"Avoid bottled beverages",categories:["Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/262-avoid-bottled-beverages",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recEiikEEUBTihacw","recJEnemWDJhm2Dt6","reczRPxh5ZiYJ8aLy"],tips:"⢠With some simple planning ahead, having a water bottle or coffee mug close by to fill up makes it easy to avoid a bottled option.\n\n⢠An excellent alternative for carbonated drinks is using a personal carbonator machine to make your own. They are easy to find and do a great job making a fresh beverage. They pay for themselves and you no longer need to lug around heavy drinks from the store.\n\n⢠Another option for changing up your drink rout
1ine is to try dry drink mixes. In powder or liquid form, it saves quite a bit of wasteful packaging. Find a nice pitcher to fill up and have on hand when thirst strikes. It worked in the 80s! Oh Yeah!\n\n⢠Will you be able to avoid bottled beverages all the time? Probably not, so simply do your best when you can. If you need to buy something on the fly, go for glass or paper packaging when possible. Larger sizes are also generally better than multi-single-serve packs.",description:'It is no secret that our oceans and land are choking on waste, but what do we do about it? Start at the top and work your way down the list of offenders. Avoiding bottled beverages, which often come in plastic, is a good way to have an impact.\n\nSingle-use plastic drinking bottles are a massive contributor to global plastic pollution. The <a href="https://www.earthday.org/fact-sheet-single-use-plastics/#_ftn3">world produces one million plastic bottles every minute</a>. If that was done in a sustainable, circular fashion, that would not be so bad, but unfortunately <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/faq-on-plastics#how-much-of-global-plastic-is-recycled">less than 20% of plastic ends up being recycled</a>. Plus, it takes a lot of oil to create that plastic.\n\nAs if this was not enough of an issue, the energy required to bottle a beverage <a href="https://phys.org/news/2009-03-energy-bottle.html">is up to 2,000 times the energy required to produce tap water</a>. That energy typically comes from polluting sources. Water is probably available to you for free or very low cost and tends to be a healthier option.',summary:"Avoiding bottled beverages, which often come in plastic, is a good way to reduce plastic pollution and waste. Carry a refillable bottle, try personal carbonators, and opt for dry drink mixes to reduce reliance on bottled drinks.",additionalResources:"https://ourworldindata.org/faq-on-plastics#how-much-of-global-plastic-is-recycled\n\nhttps://www.cbsnews.com/pictures/bottled-water-10-shockers-they-dont-want-you
1-to-know/11/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@exportersindia'>Tanvi Sharma</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recVDsMK3snsbzdVl",id:264,slug:"264-install-a-smart-thermostat",title:"Install a smart thermostat",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/264-install-a-smart-thermostat",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reci85wSWviPcDznH","recGpB3XuOPfCWOmV","recpf3PkXishK1bzB"],tips:"⢠What makes a smart thermostat so smart? It has sensors that check whether someone is home or not. If you are not, the temperature is adjusted accordingly so energy is not wasted when it is not needed.\n\n⢠Smart thermostats also allow for detailed programs so that you can adjust the temperature up and down at exact times. If you prefer an automated route, many even have an option to learn your preferences and create a program for you.\n\n⢠Most systems link to your phone, allowing you to change the setting on the go or from the comfort of your bed or couch.\n\n⢠Search online for the type of thermostat that fits your style and price range. As long as some of the features mentioned above resonate with you, then you will be in a good place. Smart thermostats have been around for a few years, so consider getting a used one online to save yourself money and keep less stuff from being manufactured.\n\n⢠Installation of a new thermostat is usually pretty straightforward if you simply swap out an old thermostat. Most people can do it themselves by reading the instructions or watching a video found by searching online. It should take you an hour or less. If you are not up for that challenge, then recruit a friend, family member, or professional to help out.",description:"Your thermostat is the central nervous system of your home heating or cooling system. If you still rely on antiquated manual thermostats, you are burning unnecessary money and carbon. Typically, smart thermostats save you up to twenty percent of your energy consumption.\n\nWorldwide, home heating and cooling make up about a tenth of all energy usage, which means there is a lot of room for improvement. If just 1 in 5 households used smart thermostats, emissions would decrease by 7.4 gigatons.\n\nThe best part about this action is that once you complete it you will save each and every day with no extra effort.",summary:"Upgrade to a smart thermostat to save money and reduce climate pollution. Use it to ensure you are not wasting energy by heating or cooling your home when it is not needed.",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@danlefeb'>Dan LeFebvre</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec9HA3w25sV7eZ5I",id:265,slug:"265-be-a-better-gift-giver-plus-receiver",title:"Be a better gift giver + receiver",categories:["Family & Community","Stuff"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/265-be-a-better-gift-giver-plus-receiver",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reccG4IVWSpbswtiI","recJweOKIs1t6wjxg","recI7W2a8da5V8LRC","recvvKu8oHWUjU3v1","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recz0ABOX3OOF6fur","recxkxaIsOV289KUe"],tips:'⢠When giving gifts, consider a "Buy It for Life" item or an experience. For example, a park or museum membership, tickets to an event, a yearly donation, or a useful or high-quality energy-saving tool. This is your chance to influence someone in a genuinely positive way.\n\n⢠Relatively low-impact consumables like special fun food and drink also make great gifts. We all need to eat and imbibe some time!\n\n⢠If you are receiving a gift from someone who is not into the climate and environmental movements and who might be offended if you say that you do not need anything, then use this opportunity to fill a gap in your path. Perhaps respond by saying you have a preference for a gift from a particular green company. For instance, certain sectors like textiles are typically bad for the environment â but we do need to wear something, so asking for something specific from a company that offsets their carbon impact will satisfy everyone.\n\n⢠If it is too late and you have already received the gift, a) use the gift for someone else later and b) set up the gift potential for next year. For instance, announce to your family and friends that you prefer donations to your favorite non-profit this year and/or you are going minimalist for the sake of our shared future.\n\n⢠If that does not work with a particularly notorious gift giver, in advance of the occasion, ask for advice on a particular subject they are interested in that is environmentally friendly, such as edible gardening, and hint that you want gifts in that area.\n\n⢠For special occasions, such as anniversaries, join the family together to buy a family member a solar oven, or even a solar hot water heater, or a membership in a community-supported agriculture (CSA) group.\n\n⢠Alternatively, some families de-escalate gift-giving altogether and mutually agree to keep presents under a certain limit, for instance limiting your gift giving to just one gift per person. Not only does this limit stuff we do not need, it reduces the time needed to intensely shop for others, and one gift can become extra special. It helps get people out of the mindset that many gifts should come their way. Perhaps that energy can be channeled into a nice family meal instead!\n',description:"A tricky thing to re
1concile about an appropriate climate change action is its effect on the ones you love. We are not all the same, and we do not have the same commitment towards the environment, nor towards how to give gifts as a way to communicate love.\n\nYou have an opportunity through gift giving to make an impact both for the people you love, and by yourself. Spend some time thinking of gifts that can change their habits towards the environment and make their lives better. Also, think about how to react to gifts that you do not need.\n\nThe impacts are on more than one person, so putting this into practice creates a ripple effect from your friends and family outward.",summary:"Gifts can be a great way to express love or appreciation. Influence positive change by gifting sustainable items, experiences, or consumables, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/2018/12/06/christmas-climate-steps-a-new-set-for-2018/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@freestocks'>freestocks</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1",id:279,slug:"279-buy-food-in-bulk",title:"Buy food in bulk",categories:["Food","Stuff","Resilience"],earthPoints:3,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/279-buy-food-in-bulk",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recDC5bUmbwqeR24a","recEEFEm5JXFOAIsF","recvV7yUxSJvciNX7","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recNoj1VvCXoq2MTQ","recOUCdYR6E1h0zi0"],tips:"⢠Start simple at your local grocery store and try to buy non-perishables items in the largest container available while avoiding individually wrapped items. This will reduce the cost and waste per unit.\n\n⢠Identify the bulk food store closest to you and walk the aisles. You will be surprised how many household items are sold without extra unnecessary packaging.\n\n⢠Make a list of all the things that you use consistently and label reusable containers for storage to make things even easier. This can be done for everything from spices to pasta. Glass containers are a nice stylish and practical option for storage.\n\n⢠Start simple at your local grocery store and try to buy non-perishable items in the largest container available while avoiding individually wrapped items. This will reduce the cost and waste per unit.\n\n⢠Identify the bulk food store closest to you and walk the aisles. You will be surprised how many household items are sold without extra unnecessary packaging.\n\n⢠Make a list of all the things you use consistently and label reusable containers for storage to make things even easier. This can be done for everything from spices to pasta. Glass containers are a stylish and practical storage option.\n\n⢠Some bulk food stores allow you to order online and create a standard order with the quantities that fit into your containers. Short of that, you can have a list on your computer that you can reference before you leave your home.\n\n⢠Will you be perfect? No, there are times when that extra packaging is helpful. However, you will likely find that avoiding it when you can will improve your life and save you some nice money.\n⢠Will you be perfect? No, there are times when that extra packaging is helpful. However, you will likely find that avoiding it when you can will improve your life and save you some nice money.",description:'Almost all the food we consume comes in some form of packaging. While this is difficult to completely avoid, the cost of our current system is adding up. For example, each year <a href="https://plasticoceans.org/the-facts/">8 million tons of plastic end up in the oceans</a>, with 40 percent of it coming from packaging, putting a significant strain on the aquatic ecosystem. Plastic is not the only culprit. However, it is a bad offender, given how long it takes plastic to decompose.\n\nModern food packaging is produced using a range of mostly synthetic materials, each consuming resources like energy, water, chemicals, petroleum, minerals, wood and fibers to be produced. Its production generates greenhouse gases, heavy metals, and particulates, as well as wastewater and sludge containing toxic contaminants.\n\nOne step to address this problem is buying in bulk to limit the amount of packaging used. While this action alone will not completely eliminate the problem, taking it collectively reduces the volume created each year. Purchasing in bulk also has the added benefit of saving you money.',summary:"Our reliance on packaged food contributes to massive environmental strain, notably plastic pollution. Buying in bulk reduces packaging waste and saves money. Shop wisely to cut down waste and costs.",additionalResources:" https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2018/05/plastics-facts-infographics-ocean-pollution/#:~:text=40%20percent%20of%20plastic%20produced,just%20once%20and%20then%20discarded.&text=CALIFORNIA%2C%20SANTA%20BARBARA-,40%20percent%20of%20plastic%20produced%20is%20packaging,just%20once%20and%20then%20discarded. \n\nhttps://www.epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/containers-and-packaging-product-specific-data#C&POverview \n\nhttps://
1ourworldindata.org/plastic-pollution \n\nhttps://foodprint.org/issues/the-environmental-impact-of-food-packaging/ \n\nhttps://energyminute.ca/newsletter/9950b7db6a/recycling-a-modern-tragedy?gclid=Cj0KCQjwk8b7BRCaARIsAARRTL7g2f5JBZnTKpahEa3i0DNnIje5i2JLoX8RlmcqtWfpEOaKMCqLkAAaAtryEALw_wcB ",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@v2osk">v2osk</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recl4xZhzXORw7SxT",id:280,slug:"280-research-investing-jargon",title:"Research investing jargon",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/280-research-investing-jargon",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð³ Save Money"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recNcr0wYX2l94xJu","receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU","reckPsoCCKKwVNpip","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","rec9mdywaHvpECv5h"],tips:"⢠Unsure what a particular investing term means? Check out Investopedia online for easy-to-read terminology guides. Pop any term into a search engine, followed by Investopedia, and there is usually an article explaining it (e.g. âwhat is a growth fund Investopediaâ). It is entirely free!\n\nThere are several forms of sustainable investing, which can be confusing, as the names are sometimes used interchangeably, even though they mean different things:\n\n⢠Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria are an increasingly popular way for investors to evaluate companies they might want to invest in. For example, environmental factors are incorporated into a financial analysis to help predict financial performance of an investment. Positive scores on factors like pollution, human rights, and transparency can create growth, while negative scores may inhibit it. While this creates investment in companies that tend to perform well on sustainability, the focus of ESGs is on financial performance.\n\n⢠Socially Responsible Investing (SRI) (also sometimes referred to as âethical investingâ) is about screening on a wider, ethical front, whereas ESG factors are not used to actively screen out particular kinds of companies according to ethical guidelines. SRI investors may, for example, avoid stocks in industries such as weapons, tobacco, and gambling, and/or they might allocate a particular portion of their investment to charities.\n\n⢠Impact Investing: You could say that this is the gold standard of sustainable investing, as the focus is on positive impacts created by the investment. Impact investment funds focus on businesses that bring a benefit to society or to the environment. Impact funds might hold stocks, for example, in companies that are leaders in gender equality or those developing renewable energy. Your money, therefore, helps to deliver these objectives and their benefits to the world. This kind of investing allows you to put your money towards issues that are important to you.\n\n⢠If you are looking to invest in stocks, articles discussing and ranking 'sustainable/ethical funds' will often include ESG, SRI and Impact Funds together.\n\n⢠You can research funds you are interested in individually on websites like Morningstar to find out what kind of sustainable fund it is and what their main stocks are. Some funds that achieve high sustainability rankings also hold stocks in companies with poor records on particular issues, so it is smart to double-check that your money is being invested the way you want it to be.\n\n⢠If you are unsure about other investing terms, go ahead and look them up to learn more.\n\n⢠In particular, anyone who invests in mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs) should know about <a href=\"https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/092613/pay-attention-your-funds-expense-ratio.asp\">Expense Ratios</a>. This is the cost of having a particular fund. There are many bad options with high expense ratios that drain the gains of unsuspecting investors.\n\n------\nNOTE: This information should not be relied upon as research, investment advice, or a recommendation regarding any products. This material is strictly for educational or informational purposes and is subject to change.",description:"Whether you are a seasoned investor, have a retirement account you do not know much about, or are just starting to invest, one of the best steps you can take before directly tackling sustainable investing is getting to grips with the jargon.\n\n
1Become a wiser investor to help ensure you back the right companies and make better investments for yourself. Understanding the language of investing better, and sustainable investing in particular, enables you to make better decisions for your money and ensures it does not support polluting companies.",summary:"Learn the unique terminology surrounding social and environmental investing so you can become a wiser investor and back companies that do not actively harm our planet through their business.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/2018/06/07/green-investing-part-1-the-basics-of-mutual-and-similar-funds-know-your-esgs/",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/document-on-top-of-stationery-669619/'>Photo by Lukas</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec9mdywaHvpECv5h",id:281,slug:"281-make-sustainable-investments",title:"Make sustainable investments",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/281-make-sustainable-investments",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["receZCZ9LtGrkd1UU","recNcr0wYX2l94xJu","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","recMo4xoaoI6HLnRv","reckPsoCCKKwVNpip","recl4xZhzXORw7SxT"],tips:'⢠Search online for rankings of the top sustainable funds and stocks. Lists <a href="https://www.bankrate.com/investing/best-esg-etfs/">like this one</a> are an excellent place to start finding a good fit for your interests and needs.\n\n⢠You can also search by specific funds and get more ideas from the <a href="https://fossilfreefunds.org/">Fossil Free Funds</a> website. It tends to focus on the United States and globally oriented funds.\n\n⢠It is critically important to consider the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/e/expenseratio.asp">expense ratio</a> of any fund you invest in. This is how much money the fund manager takes per year for managing the fund. Anything above 0.50% is extremely high and will cost you a tidy fortune over the years.\n\n⢠There is a big difference between investing in funds (often called mutual funds) and putting money in individual stocks. Funds are collections of stocks, bonds, and other assets managed by professionals whose job it is to analyze a load of market information and achieve the best returns. They are generally less risky than attempting to invest in individual companies that you have hand-picked.\n\n⢠If you are new to investing, speaking to a financial advisor is a good place to start. Go for a no-commitment consultation to begin. This is a good opportunity to find out how open to risk you are and the kinds of products (e.g., equities, bonds) that might be right for you, even if you decide not to purchase their services. The balance of different products will be very personal to you and depend on how much risk you are comfortable with.\n\n⢠A financial advisor (FA) is an easy way to invest if you want a hands-off approach, although convenience does come at a cost. FAs will often charge an upfront fee and take a percentage of future profits. Ensure you are clear about the fees involved and check out a few different FAs before committing. Many FAs often have a financial incentive that benefits their organization and not necessarily you.\n\n⢠If you are happy to do some research in return for keeping all of your hard-earned cash, head to online platforms that charge a flat fee and can provide a better value than a financial advisor. The downside to this approach is that there is a lot of information to consider, so you will need to do a fair bit of digging to find the funds that are right for you.\n\n⢠Useful investing sites:\n\n1) <a href="https://www.investopedia.com">Investopedia</a>: provides easy-to-read guides through terminology.\n\n2) <a href="https://www.morningstar.com/">Morningstar</a>: has a whole host of financial information about different investment funds. You will need to sign up, but it is free. You can search any fund here and check out its sustainability credentials as well as all the financial information you need to decide if it is right for you.\n\n⢠Many (although not all) funds have a minimum investment, which can make it hard to spread your money across a range of products and funds. Diversifying across funds and investment products reduces your risk. But you can only do what you can do.\
1n\n⢠Market volatility makes it impossible to guarantee short-term returns. For this reason, you should invest with at least a five-year time frame in mind, as markets and currencies fluctuate and so does the value of your investments. This means it can take time for you to see a general trend in how your assets are doing. Over the last 200 years, this trend has generally been upward for investors because the global economy has been growing, and where there is growth, profit is to be made. But remember, there are no guarantees that you will get back the amount you originally invested, and we are not financial advisors!\n\n------\nNOTE: This information should not be relied upon as research, investment advice, or a recommendation regarding any products. This material is strictly for educational or informational purposes and is subject to change.',description:'If you are invested in stocks or are thinking of investing in stocks, consider choosing specific stocks or mutual funds (collections of stocks) which focus on sustainability and on businesses that benefit people and the planet.\n\nThese funds will probably also be good for your profits too! There is a lot of evidence that companies with strong sustainability profiles are more profitable than those that profit from socially and environmentally damaging activities. For example, the return on investment in oil companies has been terrible in the last ten years or so.\n\nThis is because those companies are less exposed to risk from accidents or regulatory penalties and have been found to be more resilient in times of crisis. High sustainability standards associated with these investments also usually indicate higher quality company management criteria, boost brand reputation, and attract the most talented workers. All of these factors can increase the companyâs value and, therefore, how much profit you can potentially make on your investment, all while helping to create a better world â a win-win!\n\nTo use an example for one sector, Green Energy Investment is estimated to be upwards of <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-09-05/clean-energy-investment-is-set-to-hit-2-6-trillion-this-decade">2 trillion dollars over the next ten years</a>. A lot of smart money is moving in this direction.\n\nRemember, the value of any investment can fall or rise. Understand your risk tolerance before you start, and if possible, speak to a specialized investment manager.',summary:"Invest in sustainability-focused businesses or funds to help advance them while hopefully getting a good return on the investment. Research, diversify your investments, and consult advisors to align with your values and financial goals.",additionalResources:"https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-09-05/clean-energy-investment-is-set-to-hit-2-6-trillion-this-decade \n\nhttps://climatesteps.org/2018/06/07/green-investing-part-1-the-basics-of-mutual-and-similar-funds-know-your-esgs/. ",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@micheile'>Micheile Henderson</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec5PAE08WBHFBBjX",id:283,slug:"283-eat-more-nuts",title:"Eat more nuts!",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/283-eat-more-nuts",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recARmCmeiWmdpmW1","re
1cE4R2XqcV09RKsM","rec5PAE08WBHFBBjX"],tips:'⢠Have fun exploring different types of nuts. Figure out what you enjoy and bring some variety to your diet.\n\n⢠Do not judge a nut on its price. Just because something costs more does not mean it is better. Usually, it is a reflection of the cost of production and transport.\n\n⢠Not all nuts are created equal from a sustainability standpoint, but all are better than eating meat.\n\n⢠Peanuts are easier on the environment than almonds. It takes much less water to grow peanuts than the same amount of almonds. And unfortunately, most almonds are grown in drought-stricken California.\n\n⢠Brazil nuts benefit the environment because they only grow well when surrounded by their natural ecosystem. This helps stop deforestation in the Amazon.\n\n⢠Hazelnuts also do not need a lot of pesticides and can be grown in soils where other crops will not grow, helping us use our limited land better.\n\n⢠While these are interesting tie-breakers to navigate the nut world, ultimately, the key is to eat more nuts! A win for your taste buds, your health, and our shared planet.\n\n⢠Looking for a great and easy recipe with nuts? Try this <a href="https://www.forkranger.com/recipe/peanut-fruit-rice/">"Peanut Fruit Rice"</a> from our friends at Fork Ranger!',description:'Nuts are about as good as it gets per calorie and gram of protein. They are both nut-ritious (pun intended!) and a planet-friendly option. They are <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/environmental-impacts-of-food?country=#breakdown-of-where-food-system-emissions-come-from">generally efficient to produce and generate little carbon pollution in the process</a>. As a bonus, nuts are currently replacing croplands, which means extra carbon stored in nut trees. Why not support that trend by making them a larger portion of your diet?\n\nPlus, because nuts are in a natural state (i.e., not processed), they will <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/youll-eat-more-if-your-diet-consists-of-processed-foods">provide longer-lasting energy instead of calorie bomb processed alternatives</a>. That means you could end up losing some weight and improve your health at the same time!',summary:"Nuts are a nutritious and planet-friendly option that can improve your health and help our environment if you make them a larger portion of your diet. Have fun exploring different options as you expand your diet!",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@enginakyurt'>engin akyurt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recARmCmeiWmdpmW1",id:284,slug:"284-drink-plant-milk",title:"Drink plant milk",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/284-drink-plant-milk",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recTcGS6z6G9t6Ez5","recqKmV5TnwThHfbI","recEb5reGCF6UjW9f"],tips:'⢠Explore the plant-based milk options at your store. You may find a surprisingly large number! Try some out that call to you and go from there. You may not find your milk upgrade right away, and that is fine.\n\n⢠Ask friends and relatives if they drink plant milk and if they have suggestions to help narrow your options down.\n\n⢠Some factors to consider when discovering new milk options. Do you prefer a sweeter profile or not? Cow milk tends to have a lot of sugar in it. Do you enjoy flavored milk? What protein or vitamins do you want from your milk? Compare the nutritional labels of cow milk and different plant milk to understand the options better.\n\n⢠If you want to go deeper, some plant-based milk options are more or less sustainable. For example, coconut milk can contribute to the <a href="https://rainforestjournalismfund.org/projects/coconut-new-palm-oil">destruction of rainforests</a>. Rice milk and almond milk are heavily water-reliant, and most of the world\'s almonds <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/is-almond-milk-bad-for-the-environment-5191458">are grown in California, which is having major drought issues</a>. Despite the caveats, the key point is that if it is not dairy, it is an improvement.',description:'Plant-based milk has been making headlines for a number of years now. You have undoubtedly seen a variety of non-dairy milk in stores or heard about them from friends or family. These new options have become popular with many people, including those who care about the environment, those who are concerned about cow treatment, and those who simply love the taste! Research shows that in some countries already <a href="https://morningconsult.com/202
11/03/30/alternative-milk-non-dairy-popularity">at least a third of people drink non-dairy milk at least once a week</a>, with that trend increasing.\n\nCow milk remains the most widely consumed milk on Earth <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/263952/production-of-milk-worldwide">with 500+ million metric tons produced per year</a>. This significantly impacts the climate and environment. Cows produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, which is many times more effective at trapping heat than COâ. Additionally, the land required to rear cattle contributes to deforestation, as raising and feeding them is inefficient.\n\nPlant-based milk such as oat, cashew, coconut, rice, hazelnut, or almond milk, <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-46654042">are significantly less damaging</a>. Plus, you may find your body digests them easier because many people have trouble with cow lactose and do not even realize it. You will also likely find that many taste better than cow milk. Have fun trying out the different options and upgrade your milk!',summary:"Cow milk has an oversized negative environmental impact, including methane emissions and inefficient land use. Consider switching to plant-based milk. You may find your digestive system prefers it and that it tastes better than cow milk.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@sendun'>Sandi Benedicta</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMbA6Nx9mDq7k85",id:285,slug:"285-regularly-clean-up-an-area",title:"Regularly clean up an area",categories:["Outside","Stuff"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/285-regularly-clean-up-an-area",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recJGZOF33jLp7JX8","recTZpwR3Osyw0lVH","recQWOpWjRwimLZsl","recmSnnBrMlFslV0N"],tips:'⢠Looking for inspiration? Check out the daily trash pickup that Edgar McGregor does and posts about on <a href="https://twitter.com/edgarrmcgregor?s=20">Twitter</a>. He is quite amazing and cleans up trash every single day, rain or shine.\n\n⢠Also check out the <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=%23TrashtagChallenge">#TrashtagChallenge</a> with a quick search of that term online or on social media. There is no secret to why it has been so successful and is going strong today.\n\n⢠Start small. Choose an area that is already part of your life that you genuinely want to see cleaner for your own enjoyment. It can be as simple as bringing a garbage bag with you on a route you usually walk.\n\n⢠This is also one of the simplest things you can do as a family or with neighbors to support your community. This action will foster a healthier relationship with the planet for children and create a time to connect with others. You might be surprised how easy it is to get others to join you.\n\n⢠Recycle and compost what you pick up if possible. Try to minimize the amount of your haul that ends up in the landfill by maximizing the amount that ends up in recycling or compost. If it does not work out perfectly, do not worry about it. Do not let that be a barrier to doing a cleanup.\n\n⢠Many people have now started combining this action with jogging, which is called plogging. Next Olympic trial sport possibly?! Check out some <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=plogging">videos of it here</a>.',description:'Every year we dump a massive <a href="https://datatopics.worldbank.org/what-a-waste/trends_in_solid_waste_management.html">2+ billion tons of waste</a>. There is no simple solution to a problem of this scale, but the cleanup can start with you. This is a simple, achievable action that positively affects your community.\n\nYou can help in a few ways. First off, do not litter to begin with. It is probably safe to assume that you already know this if you are reading this action.\n\nSecondly, clean as you go. When you see garbage lying around in your everyday life, pick it up and get it to the recycling, compost or trash bin. The effects of this can be powerful, setting an example that has an echo effect on the others that see you do it.\n\nThirdly, set time aside to clean up a specific area that you either care deeply about or that really needs cleaning. Try scheduling a day to do this action on a regular basis, once a year, once a month or even once a week.',summary:"Set time aside to clean up in order to beautify your area. Not only does it positively impact your community from ugly waste, but it sets an example that may inspire others.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@dwoodhouse'>Dustan Woodhouse</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recng2eHO03dsErnT",id:287,slug:"287-research-and-vote-accordingly",title:"Research and vote accordingly",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/287-research-and-vote-accordingly",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recoSJ8NmAqfe2KE0","reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],description:"Get to know y
1our representatives at all scales â from local city council to national. Go beyond the simple info they provide through the media, internet, and television ads. Instead, critically research how often your representatives support environmental bills, who they take money from, and how much they are a part of real solutions.\n\nIt generally does not take that long, actually. You will get to know who they are, and it might surprise you what they support. It makes you a more informed voter and helps when discussing candidates with friends and family. Check out the official website of your representatives and search for trusted independent sources about their records and positions on critical issues.\n\nEven if your representatives do not support all or any that you hoped for, finding out what does matter to them can help you link climate change and the environment to their concerns. Creating positive change often means bringing people with related concerns together to make things happen.",summary:"Know your representatives beyond superficial media portrayals; research their environmental support and financial ties. Use online resources to stay informed, influence policy, and hold representatives accountable.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/woman-in-white-long-sleeve-shirt-using-silver-laptop-computer-3784324/'>Photo by Andrea Piacquadio</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recgAIYLMYILEa71O",id:291,slug:"291-put-up-election-signs",title:"Put up election signs",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/291-put-up-election-signs",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reck2JOxqUDqdAeAU","recZAXw0BhHqRm2gI","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:"⢠Contact the campaign office for the representatives you support to ask for signs â either online or by phone. Hopefully, you can pick it up in person to avoid the packaging. But in an important environmental election â the benefit of the representative can outweigh the cost of packaging.\n\n⢠Please recycle the signs after the election. For example, flip them over, or glue two together, and write environmental/climate slogans on them.\n\n⢠Stickers or signs in your window can be effective as well!",description:'As with many climate actions, influencing other people is key to creating an impact. Putting up election signs in your yard puts the topic into the minds of others as they pass by. Go for it! Make a statement and influence your neighbors â after all, they love and respect you already. They will appreciate your views.\n\nAs a bare minimum, this will bring about a healthy conversation with those around you about why you support a candidate. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0261379415002310">Studies</a> have shown that signs can significantly influence election choice and election turnout.\n\nNaturally, make sure you understand the candidate\'s stance on the environment. This will allow you to have informed conversations with those who support your view and those who do not. There is no better time to influence core beliefs than when someone starts the conversation. Let your sign make the introduction!',summary:"Putting up election signs raises awareness and sparks conversations about climate issues in your community. Contact campaign offices for signs and reuse or recycle them after the election to minimize waste.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/blank-board-park_901948.htm">Image by victor217</a> on Freepik'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recHolPVs5U0N4c2G",id:306,slug:"306-add-an-action-to-earth-hero",title:"Add an Action to Earth Hero",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community","Travel & Transport","Food","Energy","Home & Work","Stuff","Outside"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/306-add-an-action-to-earth-hero",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reckASkV5dmw7uyKu","rec7niZRq
1sTueFn2J","recbZ37suKx4ILbZQ"],description:'We would love to hear from you if you have ideas for Actions that should be included in Earth Hero. We regularly add new options. Plus, your input will be seen by thousands of people around the world working together to address climate change. Please share your ideas by sending an email to <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>\n\nWe are an all-volunteer team, so progress happens as quickly as people contribute. Researching and writing up actions is the hardest part of developing new ones. All are welcome to help advance the movement.',summary:"Share your climate action ideas with Earth Hero to inspire thousands worldwide. Contribute to progress by emailing your suggestions to us or reaching out through our website.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Created by our team. No credit needed."},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recE4R2XqcV09RKsM",id:308,slug:"308-watch-top-climate-documentaries",title:"Watch top climate documentaries",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/308-watch-top-climate-documentaries",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec1RqWoi5xmriEUy","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recl4xZhzXORw7SxT"],tips:'Here are some outstanding climate documentaries to check out.\n\n⢠<a href="https://whatsyour2040.com/">2040</a> â Learn about, contribute to, advocate for and invest in regenerative solutions to improve our planet. This is an optimistic view of what the year 2040 could look like if we take action now.\n\n⢠<a href="https://youtu.be/64R2MYUt394">David Attenborough - A Life on Our Planet</a> â Sir David Attenborough is a well-known broadcaster and natural historian. Watch this beautifully filmed documentary to learn about the basics of climate change and resultant biodiversity loss. Stick with it until the 55-minute mark to hear the hopeful message!\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb6wQtNjblk">Breaking Boundaries: The Science of Our Planet</a> â The story of the incredible discovery that humanity has pushed Earth beyond the boundaries that have kept it stable for the last 10,000 years. David Attenborough and scientist Johan Rockström examine the unfolding crisis and how we can still avoid the worst of it.\n\n⢠<a href="https://youtu.be/JLwt84rA97I">The Reluctant Radical</a> â If a crime is committed in order to prevent a greater crime, is it forgivable? Is it moral? Follows activist Ken Ward as he confronts his fears and puts himself in the direct path of oil and gas companies to combat climate change.\n\n⢠<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/There%27s_Something_in_the_Water">There\'s Something in the Water</a> â Based on the <a href="https://fernwoodpublishing.ca/book/there8217s-something-in-the-water">book by Ingrid R.G. Waldron</a>, the film explores the disproportionate effect of environmental damage on Black Canadian and First Nations communities in Nova Scotia. Although based on examples in Canada, the issues exposed relate to environmental racism around the globe.\n\nDo you have a must-see recommendation for others to watch that should be part of this list? Send us a message at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>',description:"Build your understanding of the climate crisis so you can better articulate the issue and advocate for the solutions to create a better world. A great and entertaining way to learn is to watch science-based documentaries. ",summary:"Knowledge is key for decision-making. Watch science-based documentaries to understand the climate crisis and advocate for solutions. Check out these outstanding climate documentaries to learn more and inspire action.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@jakobowens1'>Jakob Owens</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recSyql2ZISp498Tl",id:312,slug:"312-use
1-a-natural-light-workspace",title:"Use a natural light workspace",categories:["Home & Work","Outside","Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/312-use-a-natural-light-workspace",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recm4H5TLXQFiuCue","rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V","reccQl2IC2UBsBVSJ"],tips:"⢠Have fun moving furniture around and finding a way to locate yourself closer to windows.\n\n⢠Do not cover the windows in your work area, and relocate heavy curtains, to let more light in.\n\n⢠Use mirrors to help light coming from windows bounce around the room and onto you.\n\n⢠If you have the space for it, consider finding or creating an outdoor workspace. Your work may seem to go much quicker!\n\n⢠Naturally, be cautious about spending all day directly in the sun and the impact of too much UV light on your skin.",description:"The benefits of natural light are almost never-ending. Ever get a headache from staring at your screen for too long? Feeling sluggish? Having trouble sleeping? Burning too much carbon? Help address all of these issues with this life-improving action.\n\nSince the beginning, humans have spent most of our existence outside in the elements, including in the sun. Many of us have gotten away from that and our bodies are not well adapted for it. Wherever you work or study, whether at home, an office, or around school, do your best to position your workspace in an area that gets the most natural light.\n\nOur bodies have evolved to use the wavelengths of light provided by the sun to produce vitamin D, a critical nutrient that prevents bone loss and reduces the risk of heart disease, weight gain, and various cancers. The sun also helps improve mood and helps our body regulate its sleep cycles better. Not only that, but you can turn off the electric lights, reducing your energy consumption and energy bills.",summary:"Get more natural light to improve your health, mood, and sleep. Plus it slightly reduces your energy usage. Position your workspace near windows, use mirrors, and consider an outdoor option.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.wearshade.com/articles/uv-radiation-through-windows\n\nhttps://health.usnews.com/wellness/articles/2018-07-18/how-much-time-in-the-sun-do-you-need-for-vitamin-d",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@standsome'>Standsome Worklifestyle</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recaXOIohxBE3Pp0e",id:315,slug:"315-use-biodegradable-toothbrush",title:"Use biodegradable toothbrush",categories:["Home & Work","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/315-use-biodegradable-toothbrush",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð Protect the Oceans"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recEiikEEUBTihacw","recJGZOF33jLp7JX8","recTZpwR3Osyw0lVH"],tips:"⢠Bamboo toothbrush handles generally come with a plastic brush attachment but are a good alternative to all-plastic options. Most of them can be thrown directly into compost. A quick search online will show some of the best biodegradable alternatives and brands. Read the reviews and get the one that suits you.\n\n⢠As for the toothpaste, you can order toothpaste tablets that help you control your toothpaste usage and are zero-waste.\n\n⢠For the ambitious, you can also use â even make â tooth powder. A quick internet search should set you on the right path. A nice bonus to using toothpaste alternatives is that most have really simple ingredients, saving you from ingesting synthetic compounds.\n\n⢠At a minimum, stop buying small tubes of toothpaste and search out the gigantic ones. Even that helps reduce waste.\n\n⢠To really go deep, check out the solutions to getting every last bit of toothpaste out of the tube. There are some creative ones, and they will save you a couple of tubes a year. For instance, using scissors, you can cut down an empty tube to expose the remainder of toothpaste; insert your toothbrush and have at least another 10 brushings.",description:"Instead of buying and eventually throwing away plastic toothbrushes and toothpaste containers, why not use a sustainable option? It is really easy to do, and you may be able to save some money along the way. Oh, and
1you will also be helping the environment and the climate crisis in an easy step, as plastic production (from oil) and degradation both contribute to climate change.\n\nThere are many different varieties of biodegradable toothbrushes and toothpaste options available. Have fun with it and try something new. When we, as consumers, speak with our choices, it shifts the market to more Earth-friendly options.",summary:"Using biodegradable toothbrushes and toothpaste reduces plastic waste and helps a little to fight climate change. By making earth-friendly choices, you influence the market towards more sustainable products.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-020-1981-0",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@groblechnersara'>Sara Groblechner</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reciz4HP0Z5mYxOtn",id:316,slug:"316-use-a-shower-timer",title:"Use a shower timer",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/316-use-a-shower-timer",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Save Money"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","reconMHOliIsRFff2","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi","recbaFHBx6x6zkqp6"],tips:"⢠Do not let this action interfere with the enjoyment of your shower. It is important you feel clean and refreshed afterward. This is simply about helping you recognize how you might improve your routines and life.\n\n⢠Any simple timer can help you track how long you are in the shower. For example, the timer on your phone or a kitchen cooking timer. Plus, there are even waterproof shower timers if you need that. Check for used options online.\n\n⢠If you want to go to the extreme to further reduce water consumption, try turning the water off while soaping. And if you shave in the shower â turn off water while you shave.\n\n⢠Finally, avoid leaving the shower running for long periods of time before showering.",description:"A shower timer helps you save time, energy, water, and money by tracking how much time you spend running the shower and getting into the habit of taking shorter showers.\n\nA typical shower uses about 20 liters or 5 gallons of water per minute. If you shorten it by just 2 minutes, you can cut your water use by 40 liters or 10 gallons. Multiply that over a year and it adds up to something meaningful!\n\nIt takes a lot of energy to supply and then heat the water we use; thus, water conservation helps support our environment. A shorter shower saves on water taken from the natural environment, on the energy to transport it, treat it, and then to heat it at your home. You can help reduce the waste of this precious resource by making a simple change.\n\nA timer helps tremendously by giving you a check on how much time you are spending in the shower. This, in turn, saves water, lowers bill payments, and saves energy â which is especially important if you do not yet use clean, renewable energy.",summary:"A shower timer helps conserve a little water and energy by monitoring shower duration. Use one to track time and cut unnecessary shower minutes.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photography-of-kodak-timer-2087742/'>Photo by Chitokan C.</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJRuufX0eTMP5Rk",id:336,slug:"336-organize-a-climate-rally-or-strike",title:"Organize a climate rally or strike",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:80,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/336-organize-a-climate-rally-or-strike",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth","Community & Institutions"],related:["recumFCOCJixI4Hjp","recoSJ8NmAqfe2KE0","recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","re
1cZgHBqz6h9z0tNH","recN7iwDXNIWm9Lky","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:'To get yourself going, try thinking along these lines. What is the purpose of your rally/strike? Here are some ideas to get started.\n\nAre you trying to:\n\n- Reach leaders to show community support for climate action and keep it top of mind?\n- Amplify the climate emergency message through the media?\n- Attract new people to the climate movement?\n\nWith the purpose in mind, here are some initial ideas to start working through the details of your event:\n\n- Find others to help you. Reach out to friends, neighbors, and local organizations to assist in organizing and participating.\n- Choose a date, time and location. Consider aligning with global days of action that are coordinated by climate organizations.\n- Ensure that you have a clear and well-articulated message to communicate to your audience, whether they be media, government, partners, or community members. Focus on the specific actions you would like to take.\n- Promote, promote and promote again with posters and posts for social media to local politicians, community groups, and more.\n- Collect names and contact information of people who participate so that you can build the movement and send out reminders.\n\nReady to go deeper and get more inspiration?\n\n⢠Search for videos online to get inspiration and ideas from other rallies.\n\n⢠A few other great resources to check out are the <a href="https://350.org/gcm-organising-guide/">350.org organizing guide</a>, the <a href="https://fridaysforfuture.org/take-action/how-to-strike/">climate strike guide</a>, and the <a href="https://front.moveon.org/rally-organizing-guide/">MoveOn.org organizing guide</a>. Pick one that resonates most with what you have in mind.',description:"Organizing a climate rally or strike can be an extremely powerful action. Many people are frustrated by the lack of action and lack the outlet to do something about it. Give them an opportunity to be heard and send a message.\n\nBy organizing a rally, you provide an opportunity for those already committed to showing solidarity with the cause and voice support for the movement towards a better world. Plus, it helps attract new people to the cause and further motivates them for future action.",summary:"Organizing a rally gives people a chance to voice their frustration and show support for climate action. Reach out to others for help, choose a date and location, and promote the event to attract more participants and media attention.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/photos/environmental-protection-show-me-4605883/">Csaba Nagy</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/>Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmSnnBrMlFslV0N",id:337,slug:"337-adopt-a-forest",title:"Adopt a forest",categories:["Outside","Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/337-adopt-a-forest",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife","ð² Conserve Forests"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3","recuA9sI14gCU9YAI","recxkxaIsOV289KUe"],tips:"⢠A brief search online should hopefully turn up opportunities in your area. The less distance you need to travel to get involved, the more likely you can make it a part of your routine.\n\n⢠Not all trees are suitable for all places. Reach out to an expert to guide you on what has the greatest likelihood of sustainable success. There may even be good resources online for what makes the most sense for your area.\n\n⢠Generally speaking, local species from the same altitude will be more likely to survive and benefit the area's biodiversity as a whole.\n\n⢠Collect seeds or saplings from a nearby forest and expand the forest by planting those in sparse areas.\n\n⢠To really expand the impact, build a reforestation group. Rally some friends, organize through social media, and go plant some trees!",description:"Planting a tree is great, but what about helping plant a forest? Recent forest fires have set ablaze a vast amount of natural forests all over the globe that are impossible to re
1create without the help of many.\n\nReach out to your local forest or environmental service and give them a hand. They know best which tree goes where and when it is the appropriate season to plant. Usually, they need more hands and greatly appreciate the help. Want to go even further? Get your friends and family and contact the services to create a reforestation plan or get advice on starting your own forest!",summary:"Planting a tree is great, but what about helping an entire forest? Contact your local forest or environmental service to lend a hand in reforestation efforts. Get involved, gather friends, and make a bigger impact together!",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@briangarrityphoto'>Brian Garrity</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recxkxaIsOV289KUe",id:341,slug:"341-gift-plants-and-cuttings-to-others",title:"Gift plants and cuttings to others",categories:["Outside","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/341-gift-plants-and-cuttings-to-others",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recFIs17Sk9rZekTd","recz0ABOX3OOF6fur","recDdSM33oIEQNip9"],tips:"⢠Some top air purifying plants are: Spider plant, Calathea, and Peace Lily. Search online to discover other great options native to your area.\n\n⢠Not sure what plant you have? Download a free plant identifier app and simply take a picture to find out its name and specific care tips.\n\n⢠When you know the name of the plant you wish to propagate, there are loads of how-to articles and videos online to help. Use them to learn more about the best way to divide and share cuttings to increase your chances for a good experience. Try different things over time and build a wealth of knowledge.\n\n⢠When gifting, a little decoration can go a long way. A simple bow on a nice pot is a nice touch for a special gift. Or simply keep it casual for impromptu gifting occasions.",description:"Gifting plants and cuttings to others is a generous thing to do with extra bonuses. Plants are beautiful, are interesting to look at, and help purify our air. Plus, they absorb COâ from the atmosphere and emit oxygen, giving better air quality indoors and outdoors.\n\nGifting them also positively impacts mindsets toward caring for them and, by extension, the natural world. When a plant is given as a gift, the person receiving it will likely be more inclined to look after it well. Caring for plants can also help foster a positive effect on mental health.\n\nDepending on how widely and what plants you share with others, it can aid with biodiversity. Plus, sharing cutting from your well-established plants to others can save money and create a fun community spirit towards plant cultivation and knowledge sharing.",summary:"Sharing plants as gifts is a nice gesture and fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. It positively impacts mindsets toward caring for them and, by extension, the natural world. Plus it is fun to do!",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/dompixabay-5302478/">DomPixabay</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reci85wSWviPcDznH",id:343,slug:"343-conduct-a-home-energy-audit",title:"Conduct a home energy audit",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/343-conduct-a-home-energy-audit",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rechoZzsqhYc8BcS9","recylmPPvLC9EJpQ9","reca0oQPWO1WWrTQo"],tips:"Here are some examples of things to check and the positive impact they can have on reducing waste.\n\n⢠Locate and seal air leaks to save 10â20 percent in energy cost per year by reducing drafts in your home.\n\n⢠Inspect the insulation levels in your attic to ensure it meets the recommended minimum depth for your area.\n\n⢠Check your furnace filters (if your home uses them) and replace them as needed. You should change them about once every month or two.\n\n⢠Have a professional check and clean your heating or cooling equipment once a year.\n\n⢠Energy for lighting accounts for about 10 percent of your electric bill. Are you still using inefficient bulbs? Using more efficient light-emitting diodes (LEDs) makes a big difference.\n\n⢠Examine the appli
1ances and electronics in your home and estimate their energy use. If you can figure out the model, you should be able to find this information online.\n\n⢠Consider using energy-saving power strips that cut off power to connected devices when not in use, eliminating phantom and standby power losses without ever unplugging the equipment.\n\n⢠Contact your local energy provider to find out other ways they can help you reduce your residential energy costs.",description:'A home energy audit can help you understand the whole picture of your energy use. It helps you determine how much energy your home uses, where your home is losing energy, and which problem areas and fixes you should prioritize. A home energy audit is a great first step before making energy-saving and comfort-increasing home improvements.\n\nThe most important result of an audit is discovering where your home lacks efficiency and where energy-efficient upgrades can make the most significant difference. Even the most efficient heating system will not make your home comfortable if there is a glaring issue, such as large gaps in the juncture between your walls and ceilings.\n\nThere are a couple of good options to consider. The first is to hire an energy expert to conduct a professional audit. This can often pay for itself, and then some, with the saving opportunities an expert points out. The second option is to complete your own walkthrough using a home energy audit checklist. Here is <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/home-energy-audits/do-it-yourself-home-energy-audits">a link to a good example</a>. You can also search online for other good checklists for your area.\n\nThis action is about analyzing how much energy you use so you can start to think about how you want to act.',summary:"An energy audit can help you understand your home's energy use and prioritize improvements. You can hire an expert or use a checklist to identify and fix problem areas to save energy, save money, and reduce waste.",amountSavings:"$$$"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reccCQdrcibgHUm3u",id:344,slug:"344-drink-local",title:"Drink local!",categories:["Food","Family & Community"],earthPoints:3,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/344-drink-local",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recVfv12OzI9c2oJh","recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","recwExwoMOgBz9kJj","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recEiikEEUBTihacw"],description:"Water and Tea are the only liquids we humans drink more than beer and other adult beverages. Beer, wine, and liquor have been a part of our social fabric for thousands of years. Traditionally, the ingredients for these drinks were grown locally and then crafted locally. Over the last 30 years, we have gotten away from this at a cost to our pallet and our planet.\n\nThankfully, the pendulum is swinging back as local breweries, distilleries, and vineyards are making a comeback in force in many regions. With it comes fresher beverages, more local character, stronger communities, and less money being siphoned off to distant lands. Plus, it reduces the pollution from shipping products across countries and continents.\n\nWhether visiting where these beverages are created, ordering when out for a drink, or picking up at the store, get to know the nearby options. Enjoy the exploration, and when in doubt, go local!",summary:"Local breweries, distilleries, and vineyards are making a resurgence, offering fresher drinks and building stronger communities. By choosing local beverages, you reduce shipping pollution and can enjoy the unique flavors of your area.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@anomaly'>Anomaly</a> on <a href='httpzs://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec94TOaTxmFwOwrJ",id:360,slug:"360-avoid-eating-red-meat",title:"Avoid eating red meat",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/360-avoid-eating-red-meat",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recEb5reGCF6UjW9f","recgoQPLNoYEnxubd","recNI7BYRh1VeqwjT"],tips:"⢠Do not feel like you need to change your red-meat habit right away. Nor do you need to be perfect. Figure out what works for you. Each step you are able to take towards a better way of living is a great one.\n\n⢠Try different options in the circumstances that you find yourself eating red meat. Perhaps that means having fun with a new dish at a favorite restaurant, while cooking a holiday meal, or changing up your grocery store shopping habits. You might even discover some great new foods in the process!\n\n⢠Not everyone may completely understand your eating habits and that is fine. If people ask, a simple response saying you are doing it for the usual reasons gets the message across. If you want to go deeper, in the right situation, you can get into the health, waste, and/or ethical reasons that resonate most with you.",description:'Looking for a way to potentially live longer and help avoid overheating the planet? Consider a simple diet change to phase cows, sheep, and goats out of your regular eating habits. You may even save some money from buying over-priced meat while you are at it.\n\nAs well as contributing to an increased risk of <a href="https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2019/06/harvard-study-links-red-meat-consumption-with-early-death/">cardiovascular disease, bowel cancer, diabetes, and premature death</a>, red meat and its production have severe implications for the environment and climate change.\n\nWhile agriculture and associated actions, such as land-use change and forestry, account for an astonishing quarter of human-induced greenhouse gas emissions (including methane and nitrous oxide), livestock production alone accounts for a majority of that. However, <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/less-meat-or-sustainable-meat">not all livestock are equal with regard to their carbon footprints</a>
1.\n\nThe disparity between different livestock is best explained by the different inputs and conditions for their production and maintenance. Cows, the most popular red meat in many countries, are highly resource-intensive to raise. They are inefficient animal-based food sources, along with other regurgitated cud-chewing animals like sheep and goats. A key reason is these ruminant animals tend to have lower growth and reproduction rates.\n\nComparing beef and chicken, we can see this. Energy inputs for agricultural products measured in Btu (British thermal units):\n\n1 kilo of Beef = ~200,000 Btu\n1 kilo of Pork = ~80,000 Btu\n1 kilo of Chicken = ~30,000 Btu\n\nBeef is around 7x more energy-intensive when compared with chicken. This corresponds to the large amounts of food, water, and space a cow requires to grow. It is a relatively energy-intensive process by which a cow becomes a burger, steak, or meatloaf.\n\nThis does not include other impacts of cattle farming, which are in some ways far more significant. Cattle ranching accounts for a staggering 80 percent of the current deforestation of the Amazon rainforest. Large forest areas are being cleared for soybean production, a staple of cattle feed.\n\nThis carbon-intensive industry relies on a societal inclination towards red meat. This is based on common misconceptions about the dietary value of red meat over other types of food and the specific cultural values surrounding red meat. These ideas are pushed by those who want to make money off of you, along with an army of advertisers and influencers backing them up.\n\nAt the same time, you will save some cows from leading rough lives as part of the industrial meat production process.',summary:"Consider phasing cows, sheep, and goats from your regular diet to improve your health, slow climate change, and save money. Have fun trying plant-based options and discover what you like best.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996920303665?casa_token=HCWZQW8y0OYAAAAA:B-dhze1nzrNp0-Cm5zYgR0r_I8Z-4HuhVMMWS8ueYF_4VVuh4QDUmdgICAocqB_2i5txdMLfBg\n\nhttps://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/whats-the-beef-with-red-meat\n\nhttps://www.saveonenergy.com/resources/food-production-requires-energy/ \n\nhttps://wwf.panda.org/discover/knowledge_hub/where_we_work/amazon/amazon_threats/unsustainable_cattle_ranching/?#:~:text=Cattle%20ranching%20accounts%20for%2080%25%20of%20current%20deforestation%20throughout%20the%20Amazon.\n\nhttps://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2021-01-04/slave-labor-at-brazilian-cattle-farms-focus-of-new-report.",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@zyan_bmo'>Zyanya BMO</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recm13a7ez0HxrP8T",id:378,slug:"378-turn-off-shower-while-washing",title:"Turn off shower while washing",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/378-turn-off-shower-while-washing",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recW81XXaCvlJ37GL","reci2p0vOh6SFplRG","recEiikEEUBTihacw"],description:"Save water and energy by turning off the shower when you are not using it! You can reduce your shower's carbon emissions by using less hot water. Plus, it saves precious water. Simply turn off the shower while you clean your hair and wash your body!\n\nPay attention to how much water you actually need in the shower. By turning it off when you are not actually using it, you will realize you do not really need to have it running as much as you think!\n\nThis may be a challenging action. Especially when we have been showering a certain way for years. If you give it a try and it does not work for you, no worries. Do not let this impact the enjoyment of your shower. Simply mark the action as Not for me.",summary:"Turn off the water when lathering up in the shower to save water, energy, and a little money.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-scrubbing-her-legs-5240754/'>Photo by Karolina Grabowska</a>"}
1,{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPS1CKy6w9B4UG0",id:394,slug:"394-adopt-coral-fragments",title:"Adopt coral fragments",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Outside"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/394-adopt-coral-fragments",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð Protect the Oceans","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec3URc8CRt6uq5fm","rec23sj2JziJUSPUa","recmSnnBrMlFslV0N"],tips:'⢠Find a trusted source to adopt your coral fragments. You can browse the options if you <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=adopt+coral+fragments">search online</a>.\n\n⢠Look for a non-profit approach that seems to be effectively using your money. Ones that send you a lot of physical wasteful stuff probably are not the best option. On the other hand, regular scientific progress reports sent straight to your inbox or other metrics that show they are serious about helping coral reefs are cool options.\n\n⢠Consider this for a unique and fun gift option with a positive impact.',description:'Coral reefs are beautiful undersea cities with intricate formations and wondrous sea creatures. Beyond their stunning look, they play an essential role in water filtration, shoreline storm protection, food sources, and creating livelihoods for the humans that live nearby.\n\nSadly, <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2017/06/coral-reef-bleaching-global-warming-unesco-sites/">coral reefs could be gone in 30 years</a> because of burning oil, natural gas, and coal, which is causing the planet and oceans to overheat.\n\nPhasing out pollution is necessary to protect these helpful wonders. Still, if you are looking to do more, there are several organizations where you can adopt coral fragments to help restore dying reefs. By adopting coral fragments, scientists and coral gardeners can grow and plant the coral in reefs to help make them stronger and healthier. It can help slow the damage and give the reefs a better chance of survival.',summary:"Coral reefs face extinction due to human-induced climate change. To aid their restoration, adopt coral fragments through reputable organizations and support efforts to grow and replant corals for a chance at survival.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@francesco_ungaro'>Francesco Ungaro</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec26ToRO9VSC5XF8",id:395,slug:"395-use-electric-power-tools",title:"Use electric power tools",categories:["Home & Work","Energy","Outside"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/395-use-electric-power-tools",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recFC2oHRE4oa7lXf","recwySEBARXXihsNS","recfg3cKIppxOw5U3"],tips:"⢠Great electric versions for almost any power tool you can think of are readily available. Have fun checking out the options and amazing technology that is putting the old polluting internal combustion engine into the past.\n\n⢠Check used options online to see what is available in your area. You can often get high-quality tools that do the job well at a much lower cost. Plus, it limits the resources and pollution that go into creating new stuff.\n\n⢠If you have newer gas-powered tools, it is probably better to wait to replace them, especially if you plan to buy new electric ones. If you are replacing tools and your old ones still have life in them, be sure to either sell or gift them, so they do not go to waste.",description:"Reduce carbon pollution and make your ears and neighbors happier by trading your loud gas-powered tools for quieter electric battery or corded options.\n\nElectric garden care and power tools have many advantages:\n\no Electricity is less expensive than gasoline\no You never have to make a trip to buy fuel\no Electric tools make no toxic fumes\no There is no stored gasoline that can cause a fire\no Electric tools are lighter\no Electric tools are quieter\no Fewer complaining neighbors and angry birds\no Less need for hearing protection\no Ele
1ctric tools can be stored in any position\no No fear of gas or oil spillage\no Finally, electric tools always start\n\nOh yeah, and they are also less polluting, especially if your electricity is powered by a clean energy source, like solar or wind.",summary:"Switch to electric garden tools to save money, save time, and reduce climate and noise pollution. Check out the options available, and consider buying used to save money and the resources required to build new stuff.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-holding-orange-electric-grass-cutter-on-lawn-1453499/'>Photo by Lisa Fotios</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFMQm0ybM0M0RVj",id:397,slug:"397-sell-unused-items",title:"Sell unused items",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/397-sell-unused-items",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH","recON2Tgth4sPhEFN","rec1Otj7Y9qdzVWj2"],tips:"⢠It has never been easier in human history to sell used items. If you are already buying used items through an online platform, then that is an easy place to start. You generally know how it works.\n\n⢠Otherwise, do some research online and talk to friends to get a sense of the best marketplaces for your area. Look for signs of lots of postings and buyers. The deeper the pool of people, the more likelihood of success.\n\n⢠Generally speaking, there are marketplace options that focus on selling across the country (or even globally) or locally. For the former, you would box and ship items to buyers. For the latter, people will likely stop by your home to pick up what they have purchased from you.\n\n⢠There are trade-offs between the two approaches. Shipping items out takes extra work and will likely cut into the money you make, but the buyer base is larger. When selling locally, people come to you, and you may even be able to leave items outside for buyers to pick up as they drop off money. Plus, it saves the emissions from shipping.\n\n⢠If you want an even simpler way to unload unused items, look for sellers that specialize in re-selling items for you. They take care of all the work, but naturally, you get less money for your items from outsourcing the selling.\n\n⢠Most importantly, figure out what works best for you! Learn and adapt as you go. That is a normal part of the journey.\n\n⢠A few pointers to help you along:\n\n- Take good photos. This is often what sells the item and builds trust in what the buyer is getting.\n\n- Describe the item in detail. This helps attract people and gives them confidence in what they are buying.\n\n- Include useful keywords. People will likely find (or not find) your item through a specific word search.\n\n- Learn from others. See what other experienced sellers are doing and take note.\n\n- Disclose flaws. If there is any kind of flaw make sure it is photographed or mentioned. Most people do not care, but they certainly do not want to be surprised by it. Especially depending on the price.\n\n- Take measurements and include them in photos or the description. People often look for particular sizes, which is sometimes hard to gauge online.\n\n- See what other similar items are selling for to help determine the price you want to set.\n\n- Keep the original boxes and packaging for things you buy to increase the value of the items you sell in the future. It also makes it easier to send out.",description:"Imagine if every item we bought created virtually no new pollution. That is what you get when you buy used goods. Now, of course, it takes a buyer and seller to make it happen. Do you have unused stuff lying around that needs a new home? Perhaps it is time to join the fun of a circular economy.\n\nBy selling things second-hand, you give people more options to shop sustainably. It saves energy and resources (often polluting) of that item being created from scratch. Not to mention, you replace an unused object with cash and free up space in your place! Give it a try and see how it goes.",summary:"By
1selling things second-hand, you give people more options to shop sustainably and make some money. It also saves the energy and resources (often polluting) of creating an item from scratch. Join the circular economy and give it a try!",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@mbaumi'>Mika Baumeister</a> <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recg37yldiQeqRvVy",id:398,slug:"398-use-a-bidet",title:"Use a bidet",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/398-use-a-bidet",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household","Individual"],related:["rec3N2A1xmcDxgGKr","recGE7U7h2uaMkPW6","recPx42pnTQefosn9"],tips:'⢠Not sure if this is for you? No worries and no rush. Just keep it in mind to try out when you come across one and go from there.\n\n⢠Bidets can be installed in many different forms. They can be included in your toilet, come as a separate unit, or simply added to an existing toilet with an attachment. The cheapest option is the portable bidet, which is a squeezable bottle at its core. A <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=types+of+bidets">quick search online</a> will give you a sense of the possibilities.\n\n⢠There is a wide range of options to choose from for your tastes. For example, there are simple, affordable bidet attachments that take ten minutes to install. Alternatively, go for the heated seat and warm water spa version.',description:'Use a bidet to reduce your toilet paper consumption and bring this luxury home trend into your life. Bidets are extremely popular throughout many parts of the world thanks to the cleaner, fresher, and healthier feeling they give.\n\nIf you are not familiar, a bidet sprays water to help clean you off instead of rubbing with toilet paper. After a try, many people cannot imagine life without them. Give it a go and decide for yourself.\n\nPlus, as a bonus, there are savings to be made from not spending as much on toilet paper and avoiding plumbing issues!\n\nMany toilet paper users go through <a href="https://bigthink.com/surprising-science/toilet-paper-is-a-giant-waste-of-resources">over 100 rolls per year, and each roll a lot of water to create</a>. Plus, there is the energy to form it (usually from polluting sources) and contributions to deforestation, especially if the trees cut down to make toilet paper are not sustainably managed.\n\nMost toilet paper is made with virgin wood rather than recycled fiber. The logs are turned into wood chips at the mill and then sent through a chemical process to remove fibers. The white color comes from another chemical process.',summary:"Try using a bidet to reduce toilet paper consumption, saving some trees and the energy to cut them down, and bring a luxury trend into your life. Give it a try and see the savings and benefits for yourself!",amountSavings:"$"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec12iZIxQcMilucy",id:400,slug:"400-eat-more-lentils",title:"Eat more lentils",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/400-eat-more-lentils",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","recJdIfA2i2gx05Gp","recDC5bUmbwqeR24a","recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","recoULx3YHKoSHJgY","recOUCdYR6E1h0zi0"],tips:"⢠Most bulk food stores carry multiple varieties of lentils. Figure out which type you like best and buy them in bulk to save even more money and packaging.\n\n⢠Take your favorite meat dishes and substitute lentils. They will add a whole new dimension. Black or brown lentils are ideal as a meat substitute. Have fun trying new dishes out!\n\n⢠Red or yellow lentils are a great addition to many vegetable soups.\n\n⢠Canada is the largest lentil producing country, <a href='https://www.fas.usda.gov/data/lentil-export-opportunities-reboundgrowing'>growing about 40 percent of the world's lentils</a>. Lentils are grown worldwide though, including North America, Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Check the label to find out where your lentils are produced, and choose the most local option where possible.",description:'Lentils are inexpensive and delicious legumes (peas and beans) that provide an excellent source of protein. They are versatile for many tastes and easily substitute for more carbon pollution-intensive animal protein in soups, curries, and other dishes.\n\nIncorporating lentils into your diet has nutritional advantages. They are <a href=\'https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/advantages-lentils-over-beef-4364.htmlâ>chock-full of vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber</a>.\n\nLentils also have <a href="https://www.onlynaturalenergy.com/change-diet-add-lentils-first/">an amazingly low carbon footprint relative to animal products.</a> That is not their only environmental advantage. They also use <a href="https://www.beyondmeat.com/en-US/whats-new/the-water-footprint-of-meat">much less water to grow than cows or chickens</a>. \n\nLentils have a relatively neutral flavor and are amazing at absorbing the flavors of spices and other additions. The options are nearly endless!',summary:"Lentils have a low carbon footprint and use less
1water than meat. Choose locally produced lentils and buy in bulk to save money and packaging. Substitute lentils for meat in your favorite dishes and enjoy the nutritional benefits.",additionalResources:'<a href="https://minimalistbaker.com/easy-lentil-recipes-vegan-gluten-free/">Check out these awesome lentil recipes for inspiration</a>.',amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@yogesh_7">Yogesh Pedamkar</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recre35xh9DIOrpT0",id:401,slug:"401-talk-to-kids-about-our-environment",title:"Talk to kids about our environment",categories:["Family & Community"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/401-talk-to-kids-about-our-environment",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recXEyaeqXoJggyOc","recKbqlT0ylqFOlKM","recSGJo2bxvY09Pm0"],tips:"⢠Talk to children about environmental actions and why you are doing them. For example, why you use certain products, why our environment is vital to our prosperity, and why the world is phasing out burning oil and gas.\n\n⢠Let them help! Find age-appropriate ways for kids to get involved in environmental action. This can be a great excuse to get outside and have fun or engage them more in projects around the house.\n\n⢠Watch kid-friendly environmental documentaries or programs together.\n\n⢠Have conversations about good and bad things for our environment. Help them see the big picture about how things work, where our food comes from, and how products are made. Keep the conversation on their level, but be honest and expand their horizons!",description:"Talk to kids about why our environment matters to our well-being, your environmental actions, and why they matter!\n\nAs the next generations grow older, so will their environmental impact. It is great to start them on the right path while they are young. Learning good habits and why they matter from a young age is easier than changing ingrained bad habits decades later.\n\nChildren today have a good chance of seeing the year 2100. It sounds so far away, yet it will be their reality. Set them and the future world up for success.",summary:"Teach kids about the importance of our environment and why it matters. Get them involved in environmental actions and have conversations about the impact of their choices. There are lots of age-appropriate ways for them to get involved!",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href ='https://unsplash.com/@suhashvilluri'>Suhash Villuri</a> on <a href ='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec23sj2JziJUSPUa",id:402,slug:"402-adopt-an-animal-near-extinction",title:"Adopt an animal near extinction",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/402-adopt-an-animal-near-extinction",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recmSnnBrMlFslV0N","recPS1CKy6w9B4UG0","rec9TiKvXIupDs1NQ"],tips:'⢠Various charities focus on this area. For example, you can adopt an animal by going onto <a href="https://support.wwf.org.uk/adoptions">the WWF website</a> or <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=adopt+an+animal+near+extinction">searching for other options online</a>.\n\n⢠Some charities offer a range of specific animals to adopt, from elephants to dolphins to tigers. You can often see which animals are in need of support and decide how much you want to donate per month.\n\n⢠You could also consider giving this as a birthday or holiday gift. It is both thoughtful and helps protect vulnerable species.',description:'Adopt an animal to help keep vulnerable species safe from extinction. Monitored population sizes of mammals, fish, birds, reptiles, and amphibians have <a href="https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/humans-wiped-out-two-thirds-worlds-wildlife-50-years-180975824/">declined by over two-thirds since 1970 because of humans</a>. This is a direct way to help the most vulnerable creatures that are at risk of being lost forever.\n\nAdopting an animal helps protect habitats, fund research, and reduce poaching, which benefits both the endangered animal and those living nearby. Donations do not just go to animal conservation but also to work with governments to bring forward better policies, fight deforestation, and build partnerships with local communities. So by adopting an animal, you are not just protecting these species but also helping tackle the climate crisis simultaneously!',summary:"Human activities have led to a drastic decline in wildlife populations. Adopting an animal supports habitat protection, research, and anti-poaching efforts, contributing directly to species preservation.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@ltmonster'>shiyang xu</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recc4IFai7MtRh6BM",id:405,slug:"405-plant-a-pollinator-friendly-garden",title:"Plant a pollinator friendly garden",categories:["Outside","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/405-plant-a-pollinator-friendly-garden",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð Protect Wildlife","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recukRmfuJCRHpuk2","recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u"],tips:"⢠Do not have an easy spot for gardening? Search online for community garden clubs that beautify shared land. It gives you a good excuse to get outside, have some fun, and connect with others in the community.\n\n⢠Research plants that are bee, butterfly, and other pollinator favorites. A local garden center is a great resource, plus you can research options for your region online.\n\n⢠Find plants that flower in different seasons. A mix of diverse plants that bloom throughout the year will keep pollinators fed and the garden looking beautiful throughout the seasons.\n\n⢠Plant in clumps rather than single plants to make it easier for pollinators to find their tasty treats. For example, placing plants closer together and avoiding using landscape fabric and mulch will form a superior weed barrier. Plus, you get extra space for more blooms!\n\n⢠Save garden cleanup for after winter. Fallen leaves, stems, and flowers are the homes of pollinators, making it through the coldest parts of the year.\n\n⢠For lower maintenance and lower cost in the long run, go with perennial plants. That way, you do not need to worry about re-planting annuals every year unless you find annuals that are good at re-seeding themselves.\n\n⢠Ideally, you can find plants that are native and non-invasive. A good garden center or online research can help you identify native options.\n\n⢠Have fun with it! Plan your layout ahead or wing it. Figure out what works for you and your situation, learn, and gradually improve over time.",description:"Turn available space into an oasis for bees and butterflies. With so many green spaces disappearing, our pollinator friends could use some help finding food.\n\nThey return the favor by sticking around and pollinating both our flowers and our fruits and vegetables. Pollinators are also excellent at pest control. Many of them keep small bugs and pests under control, which helps plants thrive.",summary:"Transform your space into a haven for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. If you do not have your own garden area, join a community garden club to beautify shared land, connect with others, and enjoy the outdoors.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@jenna2980'>Jenna Lee</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rech6aFlsgmQwCuSF",id:412,slug:"412-carefully-select-wood-products",title:"Carefully select wood products",categories:["Home & Work","Advocacy & Choice","Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/412-carefully-select-wood-products",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ðï¸ System Change","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recH1u6KaDTmuYYeH","rec1Otj7Y9qdzVWj2","rec0mSpChj7orTjoS"],tips:'⢠Certain types of wood, known as softwoods, grow faster than others, known as hardwoods. This makes them better choices for certain building materials as their stocks can be more quickly replenished. Pine, fir, and cedar are examples of softwoods.\n\n⢠Oak and maple are examples of hardwoods and should be avoided unless their properties are specifically required.\n\n⢠Teak and mahogany <a href="https://vermontwoodsstudios.com/blog/exotic-hardwoods/">are hardwoods from tropical forests</a> and especially should be avoided when possible.\n\n⢠If possible, try to salvage wood from one item or house to use in another. Deconstruction firms carefully tear down old houses and buildings and recycle the wood directly or sell it via a partnership with a local salvage yard so it may be readily available in your area.\n\n⢠There is controversy if the FSC is greenwashing forest destruction because they are failing to tackle the core issues they claim to address as explained in this <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/international/press-release/46802/certification-schemes-such-as-fsc-are-greenwashing-forest-destruction/">Greenpeace report</a> and <a href="https://e360.yale.edu/features/greenwashed-timber-how-sustainable-forest-certification-has-failed">related article</a>. Regardless, reducing new wood/paper product usage is still the best option, and going with a sustainably certified option like FSC is best when you need to buy new.',description:'The wood we use for our homes, furniture, paper, packaging, tissues, and paper towels comes from cutting down trees. The risk is that the over-harvesting of timber has implications for biodiversity, ecosystem health, and the global climate.\n\nToday there are growing demands for timber, in part due to global population growth as well as a growing economy. <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/deforestation">Humans cut down a large portion of the world\'s forests during the 20th century</a>. The good news is that the peak of deforestation was in the 1980s. The bad news is that even while the pace has slowed, we are still cutting down more forests than we are growing back. This is mostly because of clearing forests for beef, palm oil, cocoa, and wood/paper products.\n\nIt is crucial to adopt a sustainable model of timber demand and production. Otherwise, large-scale deforestation of valuable carbon stores is inevitable and will worsen the climate emergency. Keep this in mind when it comes to your home, furniture, paper, tissues, and paper towels.\n\nThe best thing you can do is naturally reduce your wood usage. That might mean using salvaged wood or a reusable item instead, like a handkerchief or durable towel. That stops a new tree from being cut down in the first place.\n\nWhen buying new wood or paper products, buy ones that are sustainably sourced. The FSC (<a href="https://fsc.org/en">Forest Stewardship Council</a>) is a global organization that certifies timber as responsibly sourced based on a number of criteria, including compliance with local laws and FSC principles, the rights of indigenous people, and commitment to a sustainable forest management plan.\n\nCheck for <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/images?q=fsc+logo">the FSC logo</a> when buying and avoid those that do not have it unless they have some other credible indication of being sustainably sourced. Together, as consumers, we can demand higher standards and an end to the over-exploitation of forests.\n\nThe undercutting of sustainably sourced timber by cheaper, unsustainable wood can be a barrier to structural change. Unscrupulous, greedy people often step in to make more money when given the opportunity. Keep this in mind and lobby your local politician, political party, industry group, or government official to regulate this through legislation or policy reform, making it harder for unsustainable timber to enter the market.',summary:"We are cutting down more forests than we are growing back, leading to increased climate risks. To promote sustainable forestry, reduce wood usage by opting for salvaged or reusable alternatives and choosing FSC-certified products when buying new.",additionalResources:"https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11676-019-01019-3 \n\nhttps://www.worldwildlife.org/industries/timber\n\nhttps://www.worldwildlife.org/publications/guide-to-lesser-known-tropical-timber-species\n\n",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/brown-chop-logs-on-outdoor-296333/'>Photo by Lukas</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec4joe31d5MX3DHQ",id:417,slug:"417-setup-rainwater-harvesting",title:"Setup rainwater harvesting",categories:["Outside","Home & Work","Resilience"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/417-setup-rainwater-harvesting",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Save Money","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec0ZIAF6JlOr5Elt","rechcMnjGXI0Ta1gQ","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u"],tips:'⢠Depending on your living situation, the best setup will vary. Start with some research into the different options, or simply mark this action as Not for me if it does not work for you.\n\n⢠Watching <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=build+rainwater+harvesting+system">videos online about rainwater harvesting</a> is a nice way to find inspiration and think about how to implement your project.\n\n⢠There are many different ways to set a system up. It could be a do-it-yourself project, hiring professional help, or in-between, like a rainwater harvesting workshop.\n\n⢠Naturally set up your system in a way that ensures clean, hygienic water and avoids the creation of a mosquito habitat.\n\n⢠Consider the potential for this project to tie into future projects you have in mind, such as growing your own food or filtering for use at home.\n\n⢠In certain areas, particularly arid ones, it is actually illegal to harvest rainwater. Check your local laws and act accordingly.',description:'One of our most essential needs, for most of us, water is often taken for granted, being conveniently piped right to our homes. This tremendous human achievement should be given its due credit and appreciated, but also its limits when taken too far.\n\nThe far-stretching ecological consequences of the overuse of fresh water can cause a chain of environmental problems. These include lessening water availability upstream, desertification, destroying life, lessening biodiversity, and the tremendous amount of energy usually needed to pump the water far distances, which typically come from polluting sources. If you want to learn more about how that can negatively come together, then check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I821oI3Ezjs">the case of California</a>.\n\nAs we increasingly realize these inconvenient ecological realities, rainwater harvesting is becoming a more popular solution to ease the burden on the rest of our ecosystem. It saves the energy and waste that go into complex water distribution systems. Plus, a low-cost and safe water source will always be readily available.',summary:"Water is often taken for granted, but overuse can lead to ecological problems. Consider rainwater harvesting to save energy and water.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@waldemarbrandt67w'>Waldemar Brandt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec6EmiI8x11dMX9T",id:
1418,slug:"418-explore-global-climate-reports",title:"Explore global climate reports",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/418-explore-global-climate-reports",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recbRnuBMhxBRRS0U","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:'⢠There is a whole body within the United Nations solely dedicated to focusing on understanding climate change and how best to reduce and adapt to the resulting impacts called the <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/about/">Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC)</a>.\n\n⢠Have a look at <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/reports/">the reports</a>. Here, you will find a go-to detailed resource on our most current knowledge. The summary for policymakers breaks down the whole report into bite-sized, manageable pieces of information. This one, for example, is <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/chapter/spm/">the report on the global climate warming by 1.5 °C</a>.\n\n⢠These reports can be used by anyone from governments to businesses to individuals to better understand where we are, where we can go, and how to get there.\n\nHere are a few other suggestions to browse:\n\no Go on to the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-convention/what-is-the-united-nations-framework-convention-on-climate-change">United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) page</a> to see how the UN is working with 197 member states to avoid dangerous human interference with the climate system.\n\no After years of tireless work, the global community was given a legal chance to work towards fixing the climate emergency with the <a href="https://unfccc.int/process-and-meetings/the-paris-agreement/the-paris-agreement">Paris Agreement</a>. This legally binding agreement was to limit greenhouse gas emissions to well below 2 °C. This makes the Paris Agreement a vital tool in the battle against climate change. It might be our best hope.\n\no The <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Nations_Climate_Change_conference">Conference of the Parties (CoP)</a> are annual meetings at which the progress we are making towards meeting the goals of the Paris Agreement are assessed. It brings parties together to accelerate action and helps connect forces within civil society, companies, and people on the front line of climate change.',description:"In a world where misinformation threatens to undermine our understanding of how things work, it has never been more important to be properly informed about the climate emergency.\n\nInforming ourselves accurately is crucial. You may already be thinking and talking to others about climate change. We can prepare for these conversations by knowing where to go to get the correct information.\n\nGoing deep on climate change is complex, connecting science from different Earth systems and bringing together experts from many different disciplines. However, we do not need to be climate scientists to understand where the climate emergency came from, what the data and research tell us, and what we need to do about it.\n\nThe United Nations have led the way in helping the global community understand the causes and effects of climate change and advise on what to do about it.\n\nThe truth is that we need to act fast to turn the climate crisis around, but there is a lot to be hopeful about. There are many positive signs that the tide is turning, and we are heading towards a greener, brighter future. But we must keep ourselves accurately informed, and we must keep the pressure on. Our world needs us. We need us.",summary:"The climate emergency is a serious issue that requires accurate information. For detailed, manageable information to learn more about climate change, check out online reports from reputable sources.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@matreding'>Mathias Reding</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recW9KaitubY5oJNq",id:422,slug:"422-recycle-plastic-properly",title:"Recycle plastic properly",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/422-recycle-plastic-properly",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recMbA6Nx9mDq7k85","recGwksfmMrrudPYG","recdWJoaYjOUPcvUR"],tips:"⢠Check with your local government agency or waste collection company about which types of plastic they accept. Usually, a quick search online will help you figure it out.\n\n⢠After you figure out what is accepted, consider keeping a list of the seven plastic types above your recycling bin and highlight the acceptable ones.\n\n⢠It is generally acceptable if there is a little food residue on recyclable items. On the other hand, if the plastic is covered with lots of food, rinse it off, or it may not get recycled. Check locally to confirm the policy.\n\n⢠Now that you know that a lot of plastic with the recycling logo cannot actually be recycled, try to avoid those products when possible. Especially for items that you buy regularly.\n\n⢠Remember! Never put your recycling in a plastic bag. These are not recyclable and may cause the items inside to not be recycled.",description:'What we can and cannot put in our recycling bins can be confusing, especially when it comes to plastic. Some say it has intentionally been made confusing.\n\nFortunately, the many different types of plastic can be separated into seven categories. But how do we know
1which is which? Look for the chasing arrows recycling triangle with the numbers 1 to 7. If it is a 1 or 2, it likely can be recycled. If it is higher, probably not, but check for your area.\n\nThe particularly frustrating thing about plastic recycling is that most of it cannot be recycled. Do not be fooled by companies that try to hide behind the recycling logo and hope that people do not realize there is little or no chance of their product being recycled. A whopping <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.org/article/whopping-91-percent-plastic-isnt-recycled/">91 percent of plastic is not recycled</a>. Then what is not recycled often <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/11/chart-of-the-day-this-is-how-long-everyday-plastic-items-last-in-the-ocean/">takes hundreds of years to decompose</a> before it can become something useful again.\n\nSo, what do each of the recycling symbol numbers mean exactly?\n\n1: PET or PETE (Polyethylene Terephthalate) â Commonly found in drinks bottles and food packaging. Can be recycled easily in most places.\n\n2: HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) â Used in milk bottles and containers for cleaning products. Commonly recycled.\n\n3: PVC or V (Polyvinyl Chloride) â There are two types of PVC. The more rigid form is used for window frames, drainage pipes, and bank cards. The more flexible type can be found in toys, food wrap, and electrical insulation. This type of plastic cannot be recycled.\n\n4: LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) â LDPE is a highly versatile plastic found in everything from clingfilm to squeezy bottles to dry cleaner garment bags. It is not recycled in many places but is becoming more common, so check locally.\n\n5: PP (Polypropylene) â Some examples of things made from PP are bottle caps, yogurt containers, and straws. This type of plastic is recycled in some places and can be reused.\n\n6: PS (Polystyrene) â PS is used in disposable food and drink containers and packing materials. It is not commonly recycled.\n\n7: Other â This category is used for any plastic that does not fit into the previous six categories. As such, it can be difficult to recycle since the plastic types can vary from nylon fabrics to DVDs to car parts. Check locally to see if it can be recycled.\n\nBe informed so that you know what items can be recycled. The more we include only that which can be recycled, the more effective and economical recycling is.',summary:"Plastic recycling can be confusing, as different categories of plastic vary in recyclability. Check local guidelines of what is recycled, and beware of misleading logos that may falsely suggest a package is recyclable.",additionalResources:"https://millerrecycling.com/plastics-recycling-numbers/\n\nhttps://www.citybin.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/TCBC_AGuideToRecyclingSymbols.pdf",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@pepeceronbalsas'>pepe ceron-balsas</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNJxIerzpltIfXm",id:426,slug:"426-drink-loose-leaf-tea",title:"Drink loose-leaf tea",categories:["Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/426-drink-loose-leaf-tea",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð§ Preserve Water"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recfyvYMVucWO2Xcf","recOWzaIwZOO6OGfx"],tips:'⢠Not sure how to brew loose-leaf tea? Look at <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+brew+loose+leaf+tea">short videos online</a> to see how straightforward it is.\n\n⢠Get a reusable tea infuser, teapot with strainer, stand-alone strainer, or another device to help you seep the tea leaves in hot water and then easily remove them when done brewing.\n\n⢠These can be bought in most homeware shops or online for relatively little. A key consideration is whether you regularly make tea for one or need something larger to serve multiple cups at a time.\n\n⢠Buying loose-leaf opens up a larger variety of teas to you. Try different options to see what you like. You may even create your own personal favorite blend of different teas.\n\n⢠There are lots of wonderful smelling options in stores and <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=loose+leaf+tea">online</a>. You may even discover a shop that specializes in loose-leaf tea nearby!\n\n⢠Getting someone into loose-leaf tea can also be a lovely gift idea for a tea-drinking friend or family member.',description:'Tea
1is the second most popular beverage in the world, next to water. Switching from teabags to brewing loose-leaf tea is easy and reduces microplastics and waste. \n\nTeabags are made from a variety of materials, often including <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-50260687">small amounts of plastic</a>. While some companies claim to make compostable teabags, the sad reality is that, more often than not, they end up in landfills. Loose tea leaves use minimal packaging besides the jar or box they come in.\n\nPlus, many people think that brewing loose-leaf tea releases more flavor, resulting in a richer tea. If you have ever opened up a teabag, you will notice that it looks like dust inside.',summary:"Switching from teabags to brewing loose-leaf tea is easy and reduces microplastics and waste. Not sure how to brew loose-leaf tea? Look at short videos online to see how straightforward it is.",additionalResources:"https://www.theteaclub.com/blog/loose-leaf-vs-tea-bags/\n\nhttps://topictea.com/blogs/tea-blog/why-loose-leaf-tea-is-better-than-tea-bag-for-the-environment/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@heftiba'>Toa Heftiba</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec1KmGVQ3ohItehi",id:429,slug:"429-recycle-in-all-the-right-places",title:"Recycle in all the right places",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/429-recycle-in-all-the-right-places",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recW9KaitubY5oJNq","recGwksfmMrrudPYG","recQWOpWjRwimLZsl","recQegFLMFzbJyZ21","recsBIxasAHI7iDzh","reclmSuw8eduuRbxU"],tips:'⢠Research your local recycling facilities. Websites and online searches for your area are helpful for that. Also, drop-off recycling centers often accept a wider range of materials than you may think.\n\n⢠Consider going even deeper to really understand how recycling is handled. Many recycling facilities offer webinars and tours to educate the public on what is recyclable and what is not.\n\n⢠Think bigger than the basics. Look beyond your city or regional services too. Your local grocery or hardware store may offer soft plastics/styrofoam recycling. Local thrift stores may have a connection to textile recycling. For example, both for those items still in good shape to wear, but also just textiles and rags.\n\n⢠There may be mail-in options for other types of recyclables, such as batteries, crayons (yes, crayons), and more. Here is a <a href="https://climatesteps.org/2019/04/07/unique-and-downright-strange-steps-towards-zero-waste/">nice list to consider more possibilities</a>.\n\n⢠There is also what is called "recirculating" (which happens before recycling): post online the stuff you want to get rid of; someone else might very well be interested! Figure out what works best in your area and where the most active websites are for that type of thing. Here are <a href="https://climatesteps.org/2019/10/19/recirculating-stuff/">some options to explore</a>.\n\n⢠Once you know what can and cannot be recycled locally, that makes it easier to avoid items that cannot be recycled and try to reuse/upcycle what you have.\n\n⢠After you have gained all this knowledge, consider sharing the wealth. Tell your friends and family, and even perhaps write a summary letter to the local neighborhood message board or newsletter to send positive ripples further out.',description:"Move from wishful to expert recycler! There are multiple things we can recycle. But when we do â are we doing it right? Do we know all the fun tricks of the trade?\n\nMunicipal systems vary significantly in what they recycle or how they support residents in recycling: plastics, glass, paper, wood/leaves, metal, and food. Cities and towns often invest what they can in local recycling centers, resulting in centers differing in what materials they can take and why. When we, in turn, do not recycle c
1orrectly, it can cost a huge amount of money per year â money that could otherwise be reinvested into upgraded recycling facilities. Plus, the extra trips taking inappropriate materials to the landfill contribute to air pollution.\n\nSo do a little research as to what is available, and then sort and send off. Plus, once you learn the details, you can help your family and friends understand better to expand the positive impact.",summary:"Start with the basics: Research local recycling facilities to learn how to properly recycle materials. This small step can boost efficient recycling and repurpose items correctly. Once you have the process figured out, teach others in your community!",additionalResources:"https://www.wm.com/us/en/recycle-right/recycling-resources",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@vivirl0505'>Vivianne Lemay</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNxOYALNJOiT4sy",id:430,slug:"430-save-singles-at-the-supermarket",title:"Save singles at the supermarket",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/430-save-singles-at-the-supermarket",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","rec8TAB2jKGtamrqB"],tips:"⢠Decide before you go how many of each vegetable or fruit you need so you can lower food wastage and not overbuy.\n\n⢠As a bonus, take your own reusable fruit and veg bags to the supermarket so you do not end up using a bag that you do not need. Alternatively, many fruits and vegetables do not require any bag at all because they come with their own protective skin. Both are good ways to keep your tasty treasures aerated on the journey home and free from any microplastics lurking in a single-use bag!",description:'Buying single bananas can make a bigger difference than you think! Loose fruit and veg not only work out cheaper most of the time but also lower food wastage and reduce plastic purchasing. The old tale that bananas ripen quicker as a bunch is actually a myth, so go grab the exact amount you need and get making that banana bread.\n\nHousehold food wastage <a href="https://resource.co/article/study-reveals-uk-wastes-97-billion-food-each-year">takes real money out of our pockets</a>, and the resources used to grow, ship, and package food is a drain on our planet. Packaged food contributes to this as people often buy six apples when they only need two because the packaging can make them look artificially more appetizing.\n\nResearch has shown that almost all shoppers prefer loose vegetables. Stores that have gone away from this trend have <a href="https://www.thegrocer.co.uk/food-waste/asda-removal-of-loose-fruit-and-veg-slammed-over-waste-concerns/552986.article">suffered a backlash</a>. How about joining that movement?\n\nYou have the opportunity to reduce plastic, lower food wastage, and keep some extra money in your pocket at the same time!',summary:"Buying loose single fruits and vegetables reduces food waste and plastic pollution. Choose loose produce to save a little money and help the environment.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@couleuroriginal'>Ilona Frey</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recKATF3B8xYYgfDs",id:433,slug:"433-use-your-vegetable-scraps",title:"Use your vegetable scraps",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/433-use-your-vegetable-scraps",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec8TAB2jKGtamrqB","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u","recNJxIerzpltIfXm"],tips:'Here are a few ideas on how to get the most out of your vegetables and reduce what you throw away. Give it a try, see what you like, and have fun with it!\n\n⢠When chopping up and peeling vegetables, you can save the skin and end pieces and use them for stock (a liquid broth). As you may
1not necessarily use them immediately, you can place scraps in a reusable container and store them in the freezer. Once you are ready to make the stock, simply pour the contents into a pot filled with water. Add salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings like bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary, for example. Let it simmer for about 1 hour, strain the vegetable scraps, and you have a stock! It can be used to make soup, stews, and more. Avoid adding cabbage or brussel sprouts as they can add a bitter flavor. Search online <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+vegetable+broth+with+scraps">to learn more</a>.\n\n⢠Eat a lot of pumpkin and squash? You can roast the seeds in the oven for a tasty snack. Simply rinse them, dry them, add salt and olive oil, and put them in the oven at 200 °C (375 °F) for 15 minutes. Feel free to add other seasoning like cayenne pepper and paprika for extra flavor.\n\n⢠If you buy vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and parsnips, you can use the peels as chips instead of throwing them away. Wash and scrub the vegetables thoroughly with water, peel them, and mix the peels with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Bake them in the oven at 200 °C (375 °F) for 15 min or until they are crispy. Mix them halfway through for even cooking.\n\n⢠Do not throw away the broccoli stalks! Peel off the hard outer layer and the very fibrous end. Cut up the rest and cook them with the other pieces of broccoli. Both broccoli and cauliflower leaves can be eaten as well; just toss them in olive oil and salt and roast them in the oven at 200 °C (375 °F) for about 20â30 minutes.\n\n⢠Leafy green carrot tops can be made into pesto! Remove the thick stem, blanch and dry the tops, and add to a food processor with garlic, nuts, lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper for a basic pesto recipe. You can alter the ingredients in any way. As long as there are nuts, herbs, and oil that makes pesto. Plus, you can make any flavored pesto. It is also not just carrot tops. Any other edible leafy greens like radishes and fennel fronds will also do the trick.\n\n⢠The ends of some vegetables can even be used to grow more, including potatoes, lettuce, basil, and onions. Plus, there is the option of growing from seeds with veggies like tomatoes, bell peppers, and strawberries. For more details, check out <a href="https://www.ruralsprout.com/regrow-vegetables/">this website</a> or explore online to learn more about the regenerative wonders of our plant friends.',description:'Around one-third of food produced for human consumption gets thrown away every year according to the <a href="http://www.fao.org/platform-food-loss-waste/flw-data/en/">Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO)</a>.\n\nWhile we can make efforts to reduce edible food waste, we can also make use of vegetable scraps that would otherwise be thrown away. When we prepare vegetables, we end up throwing away a lot of parts that can be repurposed or even eaten. Using these scraps can help reduce waste, save some money, and benefit the environment. Win-win-win!',summary:"Use vegetable scraps to make stock, roast seeds, make chips, and even grow more veggies. Let's reduce food waste and get creative in the kitchen!",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@oriol_portell'>Oriol Portell</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0mSpChj7orTjoS",id:436,slug:"436-maintain-and-repair-your-stuff",title:"Maintain and repair your stuff",categories:["Stuff","Resilience"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/436-maintain-and-repair-your-stuff",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rec1Otj7Y9qdzVWj2","recwkLfc8tzCxbJkL","recAB13YQPWm2hiCD"],tips:'There are so many resources to support you along the way. We live in a golden age of information like no other time in human history. The tips below give you some ideas of where to start. Have fun with it, enjoy expanding your knowledge, and save some serious money in the process!\n\n⢠There are videos online about how to fix pretty much anything. A simple search will give you lots of ideas of how to address the issue and where to start. If it seems like too much to take on, do not worry about it. This is a simple first step to figure out what you are up for.\n\n⢠The wonderful World Wide Web has replacement parts galore. The trick is to figure out what the part or item you need is called so you can properly search for it. Once you figure out the magic words or model number, the rest will usually fall into place relatively easily.\n\n⢠When buying anything new, tend towards quality and items that will last a long time. If something has a good warranty, it is often a sign that it is likely to be fixable. In the best case, buy from shops that also do repairs. For example, household appliances stores.\
1n\n⢠Is your phone working fine except for issues with low storage space? Check whether it accepts a micro-SD card. These are really cheap to buy and will solve low storage issues. Not all apps can be transferred onto the micro-SD, but photos and other file storage, which are usually the biggest issues, should be easily transferred.\n\n⢠Or is the battery or another specific part of your phone giving you trouble? These are often replaceable. Either someone at a shop can help you, or if you are up for it, you can do it yourself. Parts tend to be very affordable online and often come with the tools you need.\n\n⢠Do not have space or the tools to take care of the job? Try looking for a local maker space or a similar spot. These are workshop spaces that have tools and equipment for people to make or fix things. You may need to sign up or pay a small fee.\n\n⢠Is there someone in your life that is handy? Or perhaps a friend knows of a good local handyman? Be sure to make the most of this to help you keep your stuff and home in good condition.\n\n⢠Alternatively, repair cafés actually bring the people who know how to repair things to you for free or a small donation fee; these events are often associated with maker spaces, tool libraries, or even regular libraries.\n\n⢠As soon as you notice a small hole in your clothes or shoes, fix it or get it fixed. The sooner you do it, the easier it is to fix.\n\n⢠New to mending? There is a lot of great information on how to learn online. To get you started thinking about it, here is an article about <a href="https://thethriftystitcher.co.uk/the-art-and-craft-of-mindful-mending">mindful mending</a> and different mending techniques. Fixing by hand with a sewing soothes the soul mentality.\n\n⢠With all of this, the mindset is to keep what you have in good condition and fix something first before rushing out to buy something new (which often is an inferior product). Will that always be possible? Certainly not, so do what you can. Some new stuff helps us live better lives. Do what you can to reduce the pollution from the mining, molding, and shipping of unnecessary new stuff.',description:"Maintain and repair your stuff so that you can use things for longer. We are talking about clothes, appliances, bicycles, phones, furniture, and even fixing up your home. Some homes have lasted thousands of years, and some people are lucky enough to have well-made clothes that last a lifetime. All it takes is a little upkeep.\n\nThese days, materials come in and out much faster with a throw-away mentality that is a drain on our only home planet. It is time to jump off that fading trend and improve your life at the same time. As the saying goes, they do not make things like they used to.\n\nIt is often easier to fix something than you may believe. Either work with a local repair shop or learn how to fix it yourself. In the first case, fixing an item is often much cheaper than buying a replacement. Plus, you support local businesses instead of sending your money to distant lands. In the second case, the internet is loaded with how-to videos, and you benefit from learning something new that stays with you. As a bonus, you better understand how things work, which helps you prevent issues in the first place.\n\nPrevention is almost always better than cure, so look for ways to keep your goods in good condition: clean and oil your bicycle chain and keep your tires pumped up; resharpen kitchen knives to keep them cutting nicely; clean and service your appliances as recommended. Shift your mindset to maintain and repair and reap the benefits!",summary:"Maintain and repair your belongings to extend their lifespan and reduce waste. Learn how to fix items yourself or support local repair shops to save serious money and prevent unnecessary replacements.",additionalResources:"https://www.newworldlibrary.com/Books/ProductDetails/tabid/64/SKU/86605/Default.aspx#.Yuxlki-B1QI ",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/picjumbo_com-2130229/">picjumbo_com</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec8ofsuHl13NratF",id:447,slug:"447-use-reusable-breast-milk-storage",title:"Use reusable breast milk storage",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/447-use-reusable-breast-milk-storage",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recpl5zBbWVtyhKqX","recnZirckrdE4nbUW","recjQ8lWN9QSc0zHE","recfc2IIQdoRCLspB","recgbFM5NdoVfmv
1ks","rec1oThTexzJqUVER"],tips:"⢠If going with glass, consider using single serving sizes to reduce waste if milk is not used all at once. When freezing, leave space for expansion to prevent the glass from breaking.\n\n⢠Stainless steel containers are another option that are durable and hygienic. Be sure to choose food-grade, airtight stainless steel containers.\n\n⢠If going with a bag or pouch form, be sure to choose thick, food-grade options that can withstand freezing and thawing. Some come with measurement markings, which makes it easier to portion milk, or come in various colors, which can be used just for fun or as part of a system to indicate when the milk was pumped.",description:"Breastmilk for babies is as natural as it gets. Consider using a more sustainable option to store it.\n\nGlass bottles, stainless steel containers, and reusable bags are great alternatives to the single-use plastic often used to store breast milk. Whatever the material, the key thing is to get something reusable. While these options are a little more expensive up front, being reusable means cost savings in the long run and less plastic in landfills.",summary:"Breastmilk is often stored in single-use plastic baggies, which are nearly impossible to recycle. Try reusable options instead! They are more sustainable and cost-effective.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@rainierridao">Rainier Ridao</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec3URc8CRt6uq5fm",id:449,slug:"449-switch-search-engine-to-oceanhero",title:"Switch search engine to OceanHero",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/449-switch-search-engine-to-oceanhero",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð§ Preserve Water","ð Protect the Oceans","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recXx2j3YUFxIcJiv","recKFKY0izr0abNfO","recUvO4y6GJHTjVlG"],tips:'⢠The <a href="https://oceanhero.today/">Ocean Hero</a> search results are based on Bing (Microsoft).\n\n⢠Sometimes, your searches may not be as effective as the typical search engine you might use. When this occurs, you can still briefly return to your original search engine to cross-reference results.',description:'At the current pace, there will be <a href="https://time.com/4186250/ocean-plastic-fish/">more plastic in the oceans than fish by 2050</a>. To help combat this, you can switch your search engine to <a href="https://oceanhero.today/">OceanHero</a>.\n\nWhile surfing the web, OceanHero uses ad revenue you generate to clear plastic from the ocean. You can use it by adding an extension to your browser, downloading the app on your phone, or setting your homepage to the OceanHero search engine.\n\nOceanHero uses shells to track your impact. For every 100 shells, OceanHero is able to remove one plastic bottle from the ocean. You collect shells by opening tabs, searching, or answering questions about the ocean! The revenue generated is used to support partners around the world who clean up plastic pollution.',summary:"At the current pace, there will be more plastic in the oceans than fish by 2050. Switch to OceanHero as your default search engine to help combat this issue and support cleaning up plastic pollution.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec1oThTexzJqUVER",id:452,slug:"452-use-eco-friendly-laundry-detergent",title:"Use eco-friendly laundry detergent",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/452-use-eco-friendly-laundry-detergent",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ Preserve Water"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recW9KaitubY5oJNq","recEz45BJOtmYtBIY","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ"],tips:"⢠If your local store does not have good options, look online for a wide selection.\n\n⢠After finding something that works well for you, consider buying in bulk to hopefully get a discount and minimize your shipping and packaging impact.",description:"Solving the global plastic pollution problem is a huge task that is going to require the implementation of hundreds of different micro solutions. One of those solutions is replacing traditional plastic containers of liquid laundry detergent with an eco-strip, pod, or powder option.\n\nEco-strips are hyper-concentrated dry strips that minimize water usage during production and create an end product that is 90 percent plus lower in weight, which reduces shipping emissions. Simply drop the strip in like you would add detergent.\n\nEco-pods also use a concentrated formula
1in dissolvable pods, which similarly reduce water usage and shipping emissions. Both versions tend to use compostable packaging as well.\n\nThere are lots of different varieties like this to choose from, including powder options. The key is to pick something that does not come in a plastic container and liquid form to reduce plastic and shipping pollution. Plus, you do not need to carry around heavy liquid bottles anymore!",summary:"Traditional liquid laundry detergent contributes to plastic pollution and shipping emissions. Switching to eco-strips, eco-pods, or powder alternatives are more sustainable options. Plus, you do not need to carry around heavy liquid bottles anymore!",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recLTpXNXSYa49aRV",id:453,slug:"453-drawdown-climate-solutions-101",title:"Drawdown climate solutions 101",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/453-drawdown-climate-solutions-101",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recE4R2XqcV09RKsM","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0","rec1RqWoi5xmriEUy"],tips:"⢠The beauty of the flexible format is you can jump in and start watching the videos whenever you are ready. Break it up and work through the course in small chunks during a certain time of the day or binge all together. Figure out what works best for you and your daily routines.\n\n⢠The course is broken down into 6 Units:\n\n1 - Setting the Stage\n2 - Stopping Climate Change\n3 - Reducing Sources\n4 - Supporting Sinks and Improving Society\n5 - Putting It All Together\n6 - Making It Happen\n\n⢠The lectures last about 2 hours in total, not including the additional material.\n\n⢠Dare greatly to submerge yourself into the material. While these units are presented in video format, that is only meant to be the beginning of your journey. Take your time and figure out how these issues affect you and what you can do about them. Hopefully, it is a good experience to better understand the situation and solutions to the climate crisis.",description:'Try out this free online video course focused on solutions to the climate emergency. Filled with the latest fascinating insights from leaders in climate policy, research, and beyond, this video series is a brain-shift toward game-changing climate action. Grow your toolkit to be part of the solution through this fantastic knowledge-expanding experience.\n\nIt is presented in video units and in-depth conversations and combines trusted resources with the expertise of inspiring voices from around the world. The course is a great way to continue your climate solutions journey, whether you are just starting out or want to deepen your understanding of how to improve our shared planet.\n\nTo check it out, go to the <a href="https://drawdown.org/climate-solutions-101">Drawdown Climate Solutions 101 website</a> and watch the trailer to see if it is a good fit for you.',summary:"Would you like to learn more about the science behind climate change and the existing solutions? Visit the Drawdown Climate Solutions 101 website to explore this free online course. ",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recwtX2ZTfXzmIzOA",id:454,slug:"454-use-waste-free-menstrual-products",title:"Use waste-free menstrual products",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/454-use-waste-free-menstrual-products",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],tips:"⢠You will likely find that using a combination of products, like a cup and underwear, works best for different points in your period.\n\n⢠You may want to keep throw-away products as part of the mix as you get used to new waste-free options. It may help you feel better covered as you figure out what works for you.\n\n⢠Give yourself a few cycles to get used to the cup, find your fold, and learn how often you need to dump it depending on your flow.\n\n⢠If you are nervous about using a cup, consider easing your way into it by opting for a disc first. Also, remember to breathe, relax, and watch a how-to video.\n\n⢠Cleaning period underwear and reusable pads is super simple! Most can go into a washing machine.\n\n⢠If you do not think you will ever get comfortable with this, do not worry about it and focus life improvements elsewhere.",description:'Sanitary pads and tampons are made with all kinds of <a href="https://www.cnn.com/2015/11/13/
1health/whats-in-your-pad-or-tampon/index.html">toxins, artificial coloring, and unsustainable materials</a>. The billions of pieces that are manufactured each year take their toll. For many, it is a burden on the monthly bill and favorite clothes.\n\nNow, there are simple, widely available solutions for these problems! Join a growing trend and give menstrual cups, washable/reusable absorbent underwear, or pads a try to improve your health, save money, and prevent lots of waste from entering landfills.\n\nAll brands of menstrual cups are chemical-free because they use medical-grade silicone. They also promote vagina health as rather than absorbing your natural lubricants, it simply collects them. People who use the cup report <a href="https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325093">fewer cramps, fewer leakage, and less dryness</a>. If you are worried about hygiene or smells, do not be. Period panties are sanitary and are designed with anti-microbial and moisture-wicking properties to prevent odors.\n\nConsider a one-time investment that leads to virtually no plastic waste and saves you money!',summary:"Are you tired of the toxins and waste created from traditional throw-away menstrual products? Try menstrual cups or reusable pads to improve your health, save money, and reduce waste.",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mooncup'>Rebecca Manning</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recBLGRkOhZbLsGa6",id:455,slug:"455-plant-native-milkweed",title:"Plant native milkweed",categories:["Outside"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/455-plant-native-milkweed",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u","rec8TAB2jKGtamrqB"],tips:'⢠There is actually <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asclepias">a wide range of different species of milkweed</a>. Research what is native to your region. Finding a native plant nursery is a great first step, or you may be able to figure out where to focus with an online search.\n\n⢠Why native? Non-native milkweeds can confuse migratory patterns and sometimes cause diseases in monarch butterflies.\n\n⢠Besides your local native plant nursery, you can often find affordable seeds online once you know the particular milkweed you want to plant.\n\n⢠If you want to go above and beyond, plant a combination of native milkweed plants and other pollinator plants to support other pollinating species. It is helpful to plant flowers that bloom in late summer, like goldenrods and asters. They help nourish monarchs for the long migration to their wintering grounds.\n\n⢠If you are planting in an area that gets cold in the winter, make sure that you <a href="https://mygardenchannel.com/cold-stratification/">cold stratify the seeds</a> to aid in germination.\n\n⢠Concerned about your pets eating the plant? Unless yours is prone to dining on terribly bitter-tasting greenery, you should be fine. It is tasty for butterflies but usually not pets.\n\n⢠Take pictures and spread the love through eco-friendly plant gifting and social media!',description:"Monarchs are large and brilliantly colored butterflies that are among the most easily recognizable. They are one of the few migratory insects, traveling great distances between summer and winter. In the summer, they range as far north as Canada. When the weather turns cooler, they head to Mexico and coastal California.\n\nThis beautiful butterfly population has dramatically decreased by the millions. Record low numbers have been noted recently in Mexico, California, Chicago, and Canada. This is partly due to the loss of milkweed, the overuse of insecticides, the land being converted to farmland to support livestock, and a changing climate.\n\nThe simplest way to help is by planting milkweed! Native milkweeds are the only plant on which a monarch lays its eggs, so the plant is crucial for the species' survival. If you have some land or know a good spot, get some inexpensive seeds and plant away!\n\nFor your efforts, you get a nice-looking plant that is easy to maintain. Plus, almost magically, the monarchs will likely find your milkweed treasure and stop by to say hello along their North American journey.",summary:"Monarch butterflies are experiencing a dramatic decrease in population. To help, plant native milkweed to support their survival. It's easy, adds beauty to your garden, and benefits more than just the monarchs.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@vpmcorp'>M. Dean</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFC2oHRE4oa7lXf",id:463,slug:"463-create-a-tool-library",title:"Create a tool library",categories:["Family & Community","Stuff","Resilience"],earthPoints:100,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/463-create-a-tool-library",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recexVPaSt59RHrMV","rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q","rec26ToRO9VSC5XF8","recFMQm0ybM0M0RVj","rec0mSpChj7orTjoS","recUZsIcKh8tX3IiL"],tips:'⢠Look at what tools you currently have and how often you use them. Think about what tools you might need in the future. This might give you a nice starting spot for your library.\
1n\n⢠Ask existing tool libraries for advice on how to get started. A quick search online can help you see if there is one in your region and connect you to people to ask questions.\n\n⢠This <a href="https://localtools.org/find/">Local Tool Lending Library site</a> is a helpful resource in some areas to find other libraries and post about yours once it is up and running. The listings are not exhaustive, so be sure to ask and look around for other options in your area.\n\n⢠Talk to friends and neighbors about working together to set up a tool library. Consider posting about it in local online forums to find more people to contribute. You might be surprised by their enthusiasm!\n\n⢠Here is a <a href="https://www.appropedia.org/How_to_start_a_tool_library_in_your_community">nice website with more details</a> about tool libraries and how to start one when you are ready to go deeper into your journey!',description:"A tool library works like a regular book library; tools are there for lending, instead of buying or renting them. Many of us have tools we rarely use or may never use again. Why not share them? Besides staple guns and chainsaws, some tool libraries include kitchen tools that are not used daily, like stand mixers.\n\nIf we share tools instead of always buying new ones, there is less extraction of materials from natural resources, less manufacturing, and less transportation. This, in turn, leads to decreases in emissions on the one hand and big savings for those who would otherwise be buying or renting tools on the other. Share the wealth and ways to improve homes and lives!\n\nA tool library can easily lead to a repair café. This is a place where people come together to repair belongings they would otherwise discard. Tools that might be too heavy to lend, like sewing machines, can be made publicly available in a repair café. It is also an excellent way to get to know more neighbors and begin to work together towards common goals.",summary:"By sharing tools instead of always buying new ones, we can reduce extraction from natural resources and climate pollution, while saving money. Start a tool library with friends, neighbors, and online resources to improve homes and lives!",additionalResources:"https://wasteless.zerowastescotland.org.uk/articles/tool-library\n\nhttps://www.appropedia.org/How_to_start_a_tool_library_in_your_community\n\nhttps://climatesteps.org/2020/09/03/a-tool-library-is-a-seed/",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@randomlies'>Ashim DâSilva</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recsdftuDVE1iANHP",id:464,slug:"464-try-foraging",title:"Try foraging",categories:["Food","Resilience","Outside"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/464-try-foraging",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","recmgafGKQi06LzJd","recpl5zBbWVtyhKqX"],tips:'⢠Do your research! Make sure that you know and follow any foraging rules in your area. Not trespassing onto private property is usually the biggest issue. Try to find a foraging book, website, or group focused on your local area. There are a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=identify+good+plants+mushrooms+to+forage">wide range of websites dedicated to foraging online</a> to help you get started on the journey.\n\n⢠Check out the <a href="https://www.fallingfruit.org/">website Falling Fruit</a> and its map of over a half-million foraging sources around the world. It is a massive, collaborative map created by users who are actively exploring, editing, and adding to the map. You may discover some tasty options nearby! The web version is free and the mobile app version is available for purchase.\n\n⢠Naturally, washing plants thoroughly before consuming them is good practice.\n\n⢠Only take what you need; always leave some for wildlife and other foragers. No need to waste!\n\n⢠Just take the top parts of the plants and avoid uprooting. This allows the plant to continue growing so you can return for more another time. To help, bring a knife or gardening scissors along with you so that it is easier to cut the plants.\n\n⢠Gloves are handy protection if you plan on foraging plants like nettles or blackberries. A basket or bag to store your finds until you get home is helpful as well.\n\n⢠Of course, ensure that you identify plants correctly and avoid eating unsafe plants. A foraging identification book or researching online is a great place to start. If you are not certain about something, leave it alone.\n\nHere are some plants that are commonly found in many parts of the world to start you thinking about foraging options:\n\n⢠Spring: Dandelions can be baked into cookies or made into honey. The leaves can be used in salads or made into pesto.\n\n⢠Summer: You can find blackberries, raspberries, and wild cherries to eat. Or you can gather chamomile, which can be dried and used in tea.\n\n⢠Fall: You can find sweet chestnuts to roast and eat. These are easily identifiable from horse chestnuts, which are not edible.\n\n⢠Winter: Pine needles are not edible; however, they can be infused into white vinegar and diluted with water for a scented all-purpose cleaner.\n\nHave fun with foraging, join up with friends, and enjoy the hunt!',description:"Foraging is fun and a useful hobby. Your natural environment can be full of edible plants like berries, flowers, leafy greens, and nuts. It is also a great way to use plants to decorate your house sustainably. Go forth and explore the world growing around you!\n\nThere are many benefits to foraging when it is done responsibly. For example, it offers a fun way to eat by using things already growing in your area;
1 it is nutritious, it gets you outside, and not to mention it is entirely free! Here are a few tips to help you get started!",summary:"Foraging is a fun and sustainable way to find food in your natural environment. To get started, research foraging rules in your area and use resources like foraging websites, books, and others with experience.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt'>Annie Spratt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recXsZ0phKZVQUUOe",id:466,slug:"466-bring-reusable-bags",title:"Bring reusable bags",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/466-bring-reusable-bags",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð Protect the Oceans","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recGwksfmMrrudPYG","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recHetdi9Xa5tibbt"],description:'We go shopping for groceries at some point. Instead of buying or taking a single-use plastic bag when you go shopping simply bring your own!\n\nPlastic bags are used for an <a href="https://www.biologicaldiversity.org/programs/population_and_sustainability/sustainability/plastic_bag_facts.html">average of 12 minutes</a> before ending up in the trash and then it takes hundreds of years to degrade in a landfill.\n\nUsing your own bag reduces the demand for polluting oil, which is the main ingredient in plastic. And you will know that the bag will not end up in a landfill or the ocean releasing microplastic after just one use. Plus, when others see you in the store using reusable bags, it helps to slowly change the norm.',summary:"Single-use plastic bags are used for mere minutes but take centuries to degrade, adding to landfills and ocean plastic pollution. Bring your own reusable bag to reduce waste and set a positive example for others to follow.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@priscilladupreez'>Priscilla Du Preez</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec2AOLBPfT5feSDE",id:468,slug:"468-recognize-greenwashing",title:"Recognize greenwashing",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/468-recognize-greenwashing",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recre35xh9DIOrpT0","recMBGpebYqDDR93M"],tips:"⢠Read the fine print. A product may say it is made with recycled material, but if you look at the small writing, you may find that only 10% of recycled material went into making it.\n\n⢠Consider the full picture. Perhaps the packaging is recyclable, but that only makes up a small part of the environmental impact. Or perhaps a recycling logo is slapped on the box, but in reality, your local recycling cannot handle that type of material. Sure, it is better than nothing if an oil company captures some emissions it produces, but if 95%+ of it ends up polluting the air, then that is a big problem.\n\n⢠Look at the company/manufacturer as a whole. Many companies will try to come off as sustainable by creating a line of products that sound or are sustainable to distract from their core products. A product advertising an environmental claim without any other commitment to sustainability overall is not particularly helpful.\n\n⢠See if they have proof. If a company can support its eco-friendly claim with evidence, they have nothing to hide. If information is not provided or you are given a run-around, it is probably greenwashing.",description:'Greenwashing is the practice of marketing products in a way designed to convince consumers that the product is more environmentally friendly than it actually is.\n\nAn army of advertisers and marketers see a growing climate and environmental movement and are adjusting their ads to reflect that to sell more stuff. Do the terms eco-friendly, natural, and sustainably made sound familiar? In some cases, it is genuine. Unfortunately, in too many cases, it is simply a marketing ploy, and the products are really n
1ot sustainably made or environmentally friendly.\n\nThe <a href="https://www.businesspundit.com/the-top-25-greenwashed-products-in-america/">range of products</a> that gets greenwashed is broad, including food, household cleaners, air travel, gasoline, and clothing. <a href="https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/transport-travel/what-greenwashing">Oil companies have been particularly brazen</a> about it in an attempt to cover the damage from the pollution they create.\n\nRecognize greenwashing, call it out for what it is, and act accordingly.\n\nSome governments have been making strides to combat greenwashing. Check out <a href="https://happyeconews.com/what-to-know-about-europes-new-anti-greenwashing-laws/">this article</a> to learn about Europe\'s anti-greenwashing laws!',summary:"Greenwashing is deceiving consumers into thinking products are eco-friendly when they are not. Marketers sometimes exploit environmental concerns. Be aware of this tactic. Read the fine print, examine company practices, and do not get fooled.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@brian_yuri'>Brian Yurasits</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec76kDi5aFobGFRU",id:474,slug:"474-start-or-join-a-community-garden",title:"Start or join a community garden",categories:["Resilience","Food","Family & Community","Outside"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/474-start-or-join-a-community-garden",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Save Money","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Community & Institutions"],related:["recEPSa7tTtZrfyRC","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u"],tips:'⢠Start by <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=community+gardens+in+my+area">researching your area</a> for established community gardens. They may not have a great online presence, so you may need to ask around or ask about it on local online channels.\n\n⢠Based on your findings, you may discover one close enough to join. If not, start your own with the help of your local government, community organization, or a dedicated group of green thumbs.\n\n⢠Refer to literature produced by The Conservation Fund, <a href="https://www.conservationfund.org/images/RC_CommunityGarden_Brochure-Final_webview.pdf">Want to Start a Community Garden?</a> for some great tips on successfully running a garden.\n\n⢠If you end up starting your own, you will likely find yourself doing the following types of activities, with the first two being the most important in the journey.\n\no Putting the word out to find a core group to start the garden up\no Find a plot of land to use\no Contact your local government to understand any rules to be aware of\no Establish a budget\no Perform a soil test\no Reach out to group members regularly\no Find tools, preferably used, that everyone can share\no Research plants that do well in y
1our area\no Make a schedule\n\n⢠It takes time and problem-solving to bring it all together. That is normal. Hopefully, you can find some great people to figure it out together. You might even make some new friends along the way.',description:'Becoming involved in a community garden is a great excuse to get outside, enjoy some fresh air, and benefit your area greatly. Providing a communal space for growing vegetables, herbs, flowers, and other plants can reduce transportation pollution, increase local economic activity, and promote healthy eating.\n\nOne study found <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1499404606008542">community garden participants were more likely to eat more produce throughout the day</a> just from taking part in something like this.\n\nPlus, it can be a lot of fun and a nice way to connect with people in your community. Community gardens offer a clean, green environment and create space for people to gather and grow together!',summary:"Get involved in a community garden to enjoy the outdoors and benefit the people in your area. Research local gardens. It is a great way to connect and grow together!",additionalResources:"https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2011/04/28/lets-move-grow-more-community-gardens",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/cheerful-ethnic-mother-with-fruits-talking-to-daughter-on-farm-5529764/'>Photo by Zen Chung</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recsMTfwfhBDlJhsJ",id:477,slug:"477-check-if-your-bank-funds-polluters",title:"Check if your bank funds polluters",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/477-check-if-your-bank-funds-polluters",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recl4xZhzXORw7SxT","recNcr0wYX2l94xJu","rec4INtWdKRcW19Es"],tips:'⢠If your bank is part of the problem, you can also use <a href="https://bank.green/">Bank.Green</a> to find alternatives that do not fund fossil fuels or at least are not among the worst contributors.\n\n⢠Do not feel like you need to make the transition all at once. Start by opening up an account at your new bank. At that point, you can phase in using it and phase out using the old polluting account.\n\n⢠If you intend to move your money, sign the <a href="https://bank.green/pledge">Bank.Green pledge</a>. This growing list of signees is used to apply pressure on the industry by demonstrating how many people no longer want to finance fossil fuels. The pledge also allows signatories to be sent a reminder email and to receive regular information and tips if interested.\n\n⢠Usually, a bank will ask why you are leaving, which is an ideal opportunity to explain that you are unhappy with its funding practices. Businesses react when they start to lose business. Be a part of the trend to send the message and hopefully influence future practices.\n\n⢠There is a <a href="https://bank.green/take-action">template on Bank.Green</a> to tell your bank why you made the move if you want to use it as a detailed starting point example.',description:'During the five years following the Paris Agreement, <a href="https://www.bankingonclimatechaos.org/">the top 60 banks pumped 3.8 trillion USD into fossil fuels</a>. Our banks are literally funding the climate crisis. Is your bank one of them? Are they using money from your checking, savings, and credit card transactions to finance new pollution-creating projects?\n\nYou can check using <a href="https://bank.green/">Bank.Green</a>! It is a free online tool that highlights the environmental damage our banks are funding. Simply input your bank and see how they stack up.\n\nMoving your money to a bank that does not support the fossil fuel industry takes little time. From that day onward, your money will be changing the world â even when you are sleeping. How many other climate actions continue making a positive impact when you are asleep?! Turn your money into a weapon for positive change.',summary:"Banks are funding the climate crisis by investing a fortune in fossil fuels. Check if your bank is part of the problem by using Bank.Green. Consider moving your money to a more sustainable option.",additionalResources:"Banking on Climate Chaos - Fossil Fuel Finance Report 2022: https://www.bankingonclimatechaos.org//wp-content/themes/bocc-2021/inc/bcc-data-2022/BOCC_2022_vSPREAD.pdf.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@marcinjozwiak">Marcin Jozwiak</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/@marcinjozwiak">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFxribe0VxlgGUt",id:478,slug:"478-reuse-your-towel-after-a-shower",title:"Reuse your towel after a shower",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/478-reuse-your-towel-after-a-shower",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Save Money","ð Save Energy","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recm13a7ez0HxrP8T","rec5Rc4RyWIrE0ov0"],description:"This one is simple and saves you a little effort and money. You are clean when you get out of the shower, so there is no need to throw your towel in the laundry bin just yet. Hang your towel back up to dry before you shower again. Reusing your still clean towel reduces the amount of laundry you need to do. That saves you a little money, water, energy, and time.",summary:"Do not throw your towel in the laundry bin after only one shower. Hang it up to dry and reuse it to save a little money, water, energy, and time.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@giorgiotrovato'>Giorgio Trovato</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recGxKXIYJFdHWVhA",id:480,slug:"480-use-reusable-muffin-liners",title:"Use reusable muffin liners",categories:["Stuff","Food"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/480-use-reusable-muffin-liners",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð² Conserve Forests","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recgGZQLKMIKKm3EZ","re
1cJwCaIpzCrUoxZg","rec7amzmOWji20WKQ"],description:"Do you enjoy baking muffins? Reusable muffin liners are cheaper than paper liners. There are even machine-washable versions. You save lots of single-use liners from being disposed of and added to landfills. Furthermore, these muffin liners tend to hold more moisture than disposable ones! Yum!",summary:"Are you tired of constantly buying and throwing away muffin liners? Reusable ones are a more cost-effective and eco-friendly option that will save you a little money in the long run and reduce waste.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@taylor_grote'>Taylor Grote</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recgGZQLKMIKKm3EZ",id:481,slug:"481-use-reusable-baking-sheets",title:"Use reusable baking sheets",categories:["Stuff","Food"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/481-use-reusable-baking-sheets",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recGxKXIYJFdHWVhA","rec7amzmOWji20WKQ","recLLp78H2dvUgLv7"],tips:"⢠Make sure you get one that can handle higher heat levels. There are some that can only be used up to a certain temperature.",description:"Reusable baking sheets are significantly cheaper than parchment paper or foil and are reusable, easy to store, and machine washable. You save parchment paper and foil from being made in the first place and then thrown away to add to landfill piles.",summary:"Reusable baking sheets are a cost-effective, eco-friendly alternative to single-use parchment paper or foil.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@louishansel'>Louis Hansel</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recaTQxBOTF2l6Yia",id:482,slug:"482-use-bar-soap-shampoo-and-more",title:"Use bar soap, shampoo, and more",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/482-use-bar-soap-shampoo-and-more",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec9PE0aKaCwke9d5","recm13a7ez0HxrP8T","recFxribe0VxlgGUt"],tips:'⢠How do you use a shampoo or conditioner bar? One option is to rub the bar in between your wet hands to work up a lather, then work that through your hair. Alternatively, you can rub the bar directly on your hair, working downward to avoid tangles.\n\n⢠Are options at your local store limited? Search online to explore other brands of <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+bar+soap">bar soap</a>, <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+bar+shampoo">bar shampoo</a>, and <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+bar+conditioner">bar conditioner</a>. Have fun trying out something new. You may discover it works much better than your current approach!\n\n⢠Remember that not all companies that flaunt their green products are truly greener or worth paying extra. Basic bar soap is more than enough to do the job in most cases.\n\n⢠To store your shampoo bar, it is best to use a soap dish with some ventilation to help it last as long as possible. Something simple that lets the bottom of the bar dry will do the job.\n\n⢠When looking for shampoo bars, you might consider looking for the following types of products:\n\n- Sulfate-free â Plant-derived sulfates may be better for you, while <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/sulfate-in-shampoo">regular sulfates may not</a>.\n\n- Fragrance-free â Fragrances add unnecessary ingredients, including synthetic chemicals, which you may not want.\n\n- Activated charcoal â This helps remove impurities in your hair and does not have negative environmental impacts.\n\n⢠Consider going with bar soaps with a paper package or no packaging at all to avoid extra plastic where you can.',description:'We may have grown up in homes with liquid hand soap, body wash, shampoo, and conditioner, which generally are not refillable. Unfortunately, with these, we are paying for a lot of water to be shipped across the country, or even across oceans, and for the plastic packaging to hold the liquid. That ends up contributing to <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_effects_of_shipping">large-scale climate emissions</a>.\n\nTo understand why bar options are better than liquid, we can follow its life cycle:\n\nManufacture â <a href="https://insteading.com/blog/bar-soap-better-liquid-soap/">
1Liquid soap has ten times the carbon footprint of bar soap</a>. This is primarily due to the wasteful plastic used and the chemicals required in the processes (like petroleum).\n\nStorage and transport â Bar soaps are packed efficiently, using less space as they are much smaller and lighter than the equivalent amount of liquid soap. Water is relatively quite heavy!\n\nAt Home â We tend to waste more soap when using liquid options. Also, for many, showering with liquid soap requires the addition of an item, like a loofah or sponge, which requires more resources to make.\n\nWaste â Most plastic containers end up in a landfill. Even if recycled, the plastic process is less efficient than other material recycling. Moreover, the chemicals released from the liquid soap are <a href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/es901236f">harder to deal with and require more wastewater treatment</a>.\n\nThese are all great reasons to go with the bar option! Purchasing bars of soap, shampoo, and conditioners is an easy way to save countless plastic bottles. <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/shampoo-bars_l_60e5ec40e4b0a5fad4d0a0ea">One shampoo bar = three bottles of liquid shampoo</a>, and in a much smaller package. Further, given the plastic bottle squeeze-to-use design, there is no more annoying waste at the end.\n\nLately, bars have become more common, so there are more and more great options to choose from. Check them out and join the trend!',summary:"Liquid soaps and shampoos contain mostly water and require extra energy to transport; not to mention the plastic bottles they come in. Skip the waste by switching to bar soaps for your body and hair.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.greenwichsentinel.com/2021/04/22/soap-and-sustainability-the-unexpected-advantages-of-bar-soaps/ \n\nhttps://www.scientificamerican.com/article/concentrated-beer-cutting-liquid-before-shipping-also-cuts-its-carbon-footprint/\n\nhttps://www.chagrinvalleysoapandsalve.com/blog/posts/what-is-the-origin-of-soap/ ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@sincerelymedia'>Sincerely Media</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec0mhg0vE6ykZrFA",id:483,slug:"483-shave-with-a-safety-razor",title:"Shave with a safety razor",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/483-shave-with-a-safety-razor",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recSPqCDsmVGvqsib","recwtX2ZTfXzmIzOA","rec2PbTqGwGPhjLpi"],tips:'⢠Not sure how a safety razor works and if it is a good fit for you? A great place to start is <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+use+safety+edge+razor">online videos</a> to see them in action.\n\n⢠A related razor style to consider is a straight razor. You sharpen the blade instead of replacing it. The upfront cost tends to be even higher, and it is a bit different from the shaving you may be accustomed to. Check out <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+shave+with+a+straight+razor">videos online to learn more</a>.\n\n⢠There is a wide range of modern and classic styles to choose from. Have fun picking one out to bring a simple joy to your life.\n\n⢠One key consideration is getting a safety razor with universal blade sizes. Some safety razors will only work with blades from that particular company. That may not be a deal-breaker, but it usually means more expensive blades and a risk that the company goes out of business and you cannot get blades anymore.\n\n⢠Because these razors get a closer shave, you do not need to put as much pressure on the razor. It is metal and heavier than the typical plastic razor.\n\n⢠If you nick yourself a couple of times on your first uses, that is completely normal as you adjust to the pressure you need to apply. Luckily, this is easy to figure out and you will become familiar with the weight and quickly get great shaves after the learning curve!',description:'Safety razors are making a comeback, and rightfully so. They save lots of money over time while also giving you a better, closer shave.\n\nWait, what is a safety razor? If you are not familiar, it is a durable, made-to-last T-shaped razor. Instead of replacing the entire head of the razor, as with a cartridge razor, a safety razor only needs the blade replaced. The handle will last a lifetime, and the blades can be recycled. Plus, they have a nicer look than the plastic throw-away alternative.\n\nIt is no secret that <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/disposable-razors-environment_l_5cdb237de4b0790953deb7de">disposable razors and cartridges are wasteful</a>. They are used a few times and thrown away. Since most are made of plastic, that means continued use of fossil fuels for a product that typically piles up in a landfill to sit for 100+ years.\n\nSo why did disposable razors become so popular in the first place? Companies get a higher profit on them because you are continuously paying to buy more. Therefore, there is an incentive to push them on society, backed up by an army of marketers and advertising. Time to break the spell.\n\nSafety razors also cost more upfront, but you pay significantly less for refills and will not need to refill your blades as frequently. That saves time and wasted packaging. As a bonus, the singular blade combined with the weight of the safety razor typically gives an <a href="https://www.westcoastshaving.com/blogs/wet-shaving-and-grooming-blog/why-is-shaving-with-a-safety-razor-better">overall better shaving experience</a> once you get the hang of it.',summary:"Disposable razors are wasteful. Make the switch to a long-lasting safety razor to reduce waste, save money, and provide you with a superior shaving experience.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@inteligencia_eco'>Nacho Fernandez</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recnJ491R3TWpqO3y",id:488,slug:"488-carry-a-handkerchief",title:"Carry a handkerchief",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/488-carry-a-handkerchief",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recUpjdyVDPZyiIaq","recU8owpHoPVPBu58","rec1Otj7Y9qdzVWj2"],tips:"⢠If carrying a handkerchief is not your preference, then you can stash them in areas you typically frequent, such as certain rooms around the home, in your bag, or at your desk. Handkerchiefs take up less space than an unsightly box or bag of tissues.\n\n⢠So, where can you get handkerchiefs? Ask your grandparents, parents, or an older friend if they still have some hankies they do not use. You could also go the vintage route. There are many good options in online marketplaces or local thrift and vintage stores. If you have the skills, sewing one is also an option, using old fabric you have.\n\n⢠Encourage those around you to use handkerchiefs as well. These fabric squares are not just for show! Even if you are not vocal about it, others seeing you use them will help shift norms.\n\n⢠Is it hard to break the habit of dipping into a tissue box? Consider slowly phasing them out by having boxes in fewer locations around your home. There is no need to go to zero immediately if you still find a use for them on occasion.",description:'There was a time when everyone recognized it did not make sense to use something once and then throw it away. There was a time when things were made to last. Bring a little of these customs back to life with handkerchiefs!\n\nHandkerchiefs save money and are fun to carry around! It is a great multipurpose tool to have with you. They help wipe things up, clean glasses, blow noses, dry off hands, wipe your sweat, and even brighten up an outfit.\n\nResourcefully, most handkerchiefs are machine washable. This means you can invest in a few and easily rotate them in and out after use. They are a great alternative to replace tissues around your home, which saves you money, trips to the store, lugging boxes around, and then collecting used ones to throw out.\n\nIt is hard to wrap your mind around it, but <a href="https://lastobject.com/blogs/going-zero-waste/paper-waste">millions of trees are cut down</a> around the world for paper pulp products like tissues. The <a href="https://www.colleenpatrickgoudreau.com/tissues-vs-handkerchiefs-zero-waste-journey/">roughly trillion tissues we use each year</a> need to come from somewhere, and unfortunately, a lot of time the wood pulp used to create them comes from virgin forests. Plus, there is the energy to produce and the chemicals to bleach. It simply is not sustainable in the long run.',summary:"Bring back the tradition of using handkerchiefs to save a little money and reduce waste. Invest in a few and rotate them after use, or stash them in areas you frequent.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@ernestetlulu'>ernest et lulu</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recXEyaeqXoJggyOc",id:495,slug:"495-talk-about-banks-and-fossil-fuels",title:"Talk about banks and fossil fuels",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/495-talk-about-banks-and-fossil-fuels",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["recre35xh9DIOrpT0","re
1cKbqlT0ylqFOlKM","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN"],tips:'⢠An easy first step is to share the <a href="https://bank.green/">Bank.Green tool</a> so friends and family can check their bank and see if they fund polluters. It is a simple and self-explanatory tool for people to use.\n\nThey also have some <a href="https://bank.green/take-action">useful tips</a> on talking about the issue with others. Here is a summary of the key points:\n\no Do not tell people what to do. Nobody enjoys being told what to do and it often does not work. Explain your feelings and decisions, then make yourself available to answer questions.\n\no Do not become judgmental. Everybody has their own motivations, especially when it comes to money. If you deliver your opinions in a neutral, open way, you will probably discover that your message will slowly get through in the following weeks or months. It is natural for people to take time to improve their thinking. It rarely happens instantly on the spot.\n\no Be positive. Focus on the good that socially responsible banks can achieve or how our world would be if more of our money was invested in improving the planet around us.\n\no Try to find common ground, which should be easier when talking to a friend or a family member.\n\no Share your story. Explain the personal journey you have been on with these issues. We all respond to stories because they help us to make sense of the world we live in.\n\no Explain that switching bank accounts is simple. Like most other administrative tasks, it may take a few hours and you will need to make a few decisions. Opening an account or credit card at a new ethical bank is a good starting point and then you can slowly phase out your old polluting bank.\n\no Listen. If you concentrate on listening, the quality of your conversation will improve. You will better understand where your friend or family member is coming from, which will probably lead to better outcomes.\n\n⢠Some people will never get it or care. That is normal. Focus on those who want to help create a better world. There are enough of us to make a big difference over time.',description:'Unfortunately, there is a good chance your bank is supporting the climate crisis by using your money to <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/mar/18/global-banks-climate-crisis-finance-fossil-fuels">pump a fortune into polluting fossil fuel projects</a>. This applies to the money of your friends and family as well. As you wake up to the role the banks play in the unfolding climate emergency, it is helpful to talk about this often unknown issue with people around you.\n\nMoney, however, is a very personal subject. Some people do not like to talk about it, especially with someone they do not know. Campaign groups such as the Rainforest Action Network, BankTrack, and Reclaim Finance have been highlighting bank support for fossil fuels for years, but these groups cannot compete with the words of a loved one. This is where you come in! We humans are social creatures, shaped and influenced by the words and actions of the people around us. Especially those who we like the most. So, in other words, you are a great messenger!\n\nOne of the best times to talk to your friends and family about banks and fossil fuels is when you are investigating your own, for example, through a tool such as <a href="https://bank.green/">Bank.Green</a>, and considering your options. It will make it more natural to bring up in conversation, so you just need to be bold and describe your motivations! This action may be uncomfortable at first, but the positive outcomes could be enormous as we collectively move our money to more ethical institutions.',summary:"Your bank may be supporting the climate crisis, so talk to friends and family about it. Use and share tools like Bank.Green to raise awareness. Be open, positive, and patient when discussing this important issue with others.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recUvO4y6GJHTjVlG",id:498,slug:"498-clean-up-your-digital-trash",title:"Clean up your digital trash",categories:["Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/498-clean-up-your-
1digital-trash",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["recKFKY0izr0abNfO","rec5qSpThD0EaeFNP","rec2TIPmuBK1R6x7J"],tips:"What counts as digital trash? Basically, anything that is saved in the cloud on a server elsewhere that requires energy to store and access.\n\nExamples of things to clean up:\n\n⢠Get rid of old photos, videos, or files you no longer need that are synced to cloud storage.\n\n⢠Do you have old emails you will never need, like spam, deleted, and sent items? See if there is a way to have them automatically deleted, so that maybe only ones from the past year or less often are kept.\n\n⢠Overall, while this is a positive action to take, it is not a huge impact. If this is not easy to do or remember, do not worry too much about it. If you enjoy this type of tidying up, then go for it!",description:"We tend to think that by going digital, we are doing a great deal for the environment. Of course, by saving paper, we are saving trees from being cut. However, we tend to overlook emissions associated with going digital.\n\nOur electronic devices, the internet, the data servers and cloud services together consume a considerable amount of energy to operate and store all the data. Unfortunately, much of that electricity is still generated by burning polling oil, gas, and coal. It is estimated the internet and its supporting systems could take <a href=\"https://www.iea.org/reports/global-energy-co2-status-report-2019/emissions\">up to twenty percent of the world's energy by 2030</a>.\n\nOur digital trash, like unnecessary emails, files, images, and videos on data servers, makes up a portion of the polluting emissions. So let's clean up our digital trash! It is a minor impact but also helps us feel more balanced, in control, efficient, and satisfied.",summary:"By going digital, we save paper but sometimes overlook its associated emissions. Clean up digital trash like old photos and emails to reduce the energy needed to store them. It has a small impact, but it helps and makes your life more organized.",additionalResources:"https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/12/digital-carbon-footprint-how-to-lower-electronics/\n\nhttps://www.trashhack.org/the-ultimate-guide-to-managing-your-digital-waste/\n\nhttps://www.digitalcleanupday.org/# ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@wildmax'>Massimo Botturi</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPUMZjfH3OBJlhR",id:499,slug:"499-use-tubed-toothpaste-alternatives",title:"Use tubed toothpaste alternatives",categories:["Home & Work","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/499-use-tubed-toothpaste-alternatives",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recaXOIohxBE3Pp0e","recFxribe0VxlgGUt","recg37yldiQeqRvVy"],tips:'⢠Do a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+toothpaste+powder+or+tablets">quick search online</a> to find an option to try. Have fun with the exploration. Reviews can be your friend in finding a good fit to begin with.\n\n⢠Start with a small jar of toothpaste powder or tablets. This method of brushing your teeth is not for everybody since the texture is different from the tubed paste most people are used to. However, be open to trying different products and brands since the texture can differ greatly, including being more or less foamy.\n\n⢠One way to increase the foam is to wet your brush once or twice more.',description:"Switch out your tubed toothpaste for toothpaste powder or tablets! This is a new method of brushing our teeth that is not only better for the environment but also better for your teeth!\n\nThese new twists on toothpaste typically use organic ingredients, reducing the paste or powder to only the essentials. This excludes unnecessary chemicals that regular toothpaste contains. Plus, because these products do not contain any liquids, they are great for traveling.\n\nThese products typically come in recyclable glass jars and have refillable pouches that you can order and pour into your glass jar so that you only purchase the item itself rather than the container every time. However, if this option is unavailable for whichever sustainable brand you find, or you did not like what you tried, perhaps y
1ou can upcycle the container and use it for yourself after it is empty.",summary:"Switch out your plastic tubed toothpaste for powder or tablets to reduce waste and chemicals. Find a sustainable brand and try a small amount to see if it fits you well.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@heftiba">Toa Heftiba</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reco8gl5vHPJLvFyn",id:503,slug:"503-go-for-reusable-cotton-swabs",title:"Go for reusable cotton swabs",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/503-go-for-reusable-cotton-swabs",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recwtX2ZTfXzmIzOA","recg37yldiQeqRvVy","recQdlRZmCqYLSFnl"],tips:'⢠A <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+reusable+cotton+swabs">quick search online</a> will give you a sense of the options available. Check a couple out and see what looks good.\n\n⢠A quick clean of the swab with water and a little soap is usually all you need for the next use. Make cleaning a part of your routine. For example, after you clean your ears, do a swab clean afterward. It is really satisfying to see the dirt the swab picks up!\n\n⢠There are also bamboo cotton swabs available if a reusable one does not work for you. Make sure you dispose of these properly, as they are typically biodegradable.',description:'Cotton swabs are an unlikely pollutant, but like any single-use and throw-away product, they are! They actually make up a <a href="https://lastobject.com/blogs/blog/5-ways-cotton-swabs-impact-the-planet?_pos=1&_sid=1704039d3&_ss=r">measurable chunk of all ocean pollution</a>. Going to a reusable option is a small lifestyle change that will save you money, reduce plastic consumption, and improve your carbon footprint!\n\nIt takes a meaningful amount of water and energy to create and distribute the plastic and cotton that goes into a one-use swab. When you consider that 1.5 million swabs are produced daily, that adds up to something significant that is a drain on resources. Not to mention the land used to grow cotton, which otherwise could be used for something else, like pollution-reducing trees.\n\nLuckily, there is a better option! Reusable swabs are more effective as a result of the unique designs available. There is a wide range of options with different styles. For example, ones designed for superior cleaning that get all the gunk out of your ears in one go, and others designed for beauty needs, with a special point to give extra precision when necessary.\n\nYou can easily get thousands of uses if you choose a nice, durable option. A durable swab costs around the same as buying a large box of single-use swabs.\n\nFind a reusable swab that looks appealing and give it a try!',summary:"Switch to reusable cotton swabs from single-use ones to reduce plastic and ocean pollution. Check out the options online for a simple yet satisfying eco-friendly change.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@schimiggy'>Alexandra Tran</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNcRbJSdNvVeQy6",id:504,slug:"504-carry-your-own-cutlery",title:"Carry your own cutlery",categories:["Stuff","Food","Home & Work"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/504-carry-your-own-cutlery",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recdWJoaYjOUPcvUR","recUpjdyVDPZyiIaq","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f"],tips:"⢠Consider including a reusable straw, chopsticks, or whatever you tend to use in your small outside-the-home eating kit as well!\n\n⢠To make it easy to get into the habit of using your own cutlery, keep them in handy locations. For example, in your bag, coat, or vehicle.\n\n⢠In a restaurant, you may
1need to proactively mention you do not need plastic cutlery or straws to avoid getting them. Typically, the staff appreciates this because it is a little less work for them or if they are an owner it saves them some money!\n\n⢠If you need to buy a cutlery set, look for one made with sustainable materials by sustainable companies. Consider a used option if you can find a nice-looking option online.\n\n⢠Cutlery sets are fantastic to have in a workplace setting. You can likely leave a set there and clean it as needed. If you cannot clean at work, you can bring them home to clean and bring them back the next workday because they are easily transportable.\n\n⢠Using your cutlery set in the workplace is awesome because others see what you are doing and may encourage your peers to do the same over time!",description:"When you are eating at a restaurant or taking food to go, if you are offered plastic silverware, say no! Instead, use your own cutlery and help reduce plastic waste. You can take your own silverware, especially if you have extra inexpensive pieces here or there, or you can use an on-the-go cutlery set.\n\nCutlery sets are small, which makes them easy to carry and ready to use whenever you need them. They are also easily washable. It is a nice way to avoid wastefully throwing away one-time-use plasticware!",summary:"When eating out, say no to plastic silverware and use your own cutlery to reduce waste. Keep a set in your bag or car for easy access and consider including a reusable straw or chopsticks.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mariailves'>Maria Ilves</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recXeLSGDSejUMNIU",id:507,slug:"507-use-nature-friendly-bandages",title:"Use nature-friendly bandages",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/507-use-nature-friendly-bandages",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recCheOg2MoOe8NXd","rec7zey6Ph9hGwDr4","recA16unt7RgunTe5"],tips:'⢠Your best bet to buy compostable bandages is likely online. A <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+compostable+bandages">quick search</a> will give you a sense of the options.\n\n⢠You can also use wrappable bandages, which can be washed and reused! However, these generally are not as practical for smaller usage cases.',description:'Adhesive bandages are single-use objects. They are meant to be thrown away, but unfortunately, they are unlikely to decompose within your lifetime because most are made from plastic. Plus, if a stray one is lying around, nobody wants to pick it up, so it will stay littered on the ground. There is also the issue that <a href="https://www.greenmatters.com/family/2018/12/31/NrSyEsU/compostable-band-aids">a variety of chemicals are used to create and go into adhesive bandages</a>.\n\nLuckily, with advances in technology, there are now compostable bandages. If they miss the compost pile, you do not have to worry too much about it. What a relief!',summary:"Are you tired of single-use plastic bandages lingering in our environment for centuries? Consider compostable or wrappable bandages, which can be washed and reused.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/photos/-01c2G9aIGo'>Good Faces</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recojFBNwoKShcwqh",id:509,slug:"509-listen-to-a-climate-podcast",title:"Listen to a climate podcast",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/509-listen-to-a-climate-podcast",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recmOPNpdDyjzjAuc","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0","recSsVdSgmdhhnafr"],tips:'There is an extensive range of climate and environmental podcasts. Consider trying a few different ones to see what resonates.\n\nTo get started, the following are the top podcasts based on a meta-analysis of user reviews and sustainability expert rankings. Tastes and interests differ, so by no means is this a complete authority on the matter. You should ultimately decide for yourself.\n\nThe best of the best:\n\n⢠<a href="https://gimletmedia.com/shows/howtosaveaplanet">How to Save a Planet</a> â Asks the big questions: what do we need to do to solve the climate crisis, and how do we get it done? A focus on story-telling to share ideas and examples.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.drilledpodcast.com/drilled-podcast/">Drilled</a> â A true-crime-styled podcast about climate change. It traces the corporate-funded creation and spread of climate denial and explores the history of fossil fuel-funded influence campaigns.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.greentechmedia.com/podcast/the-energy-gang">The Energy Gang</a> â A weekly digest on energy, cleantech, and the environment from a business perspective.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.podshipearth.com/">Podship Earth</a> â Delves into the adventures of life on Earth and how to connect with ourselves, nature, and the universe. Offers an inspiring look at how to make a difference.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.npr.org/podcasts/381444261/pri-living-on-earth">Living on Earth</a> â A go-to source for the latest news on climate change, ecology, and human health.\n\nHonorable mentions:\n\no <a href="https://www.degreespod.com/">A Matter of Degrees</a> â For climate-curious people who know climate change is a problem and are trying to figure out how to tackle it. Includes stories about the powerful forces behind climate change and the tools to address it.\n\no <a href="https://outrageandoptimism.libsyn.com/">Outrage + Optimism</a> â From the team who worked directly on the Paris Agreement, this podcast talks about issues and politics. It inspires and helps us realize that this is the most exciting time in history to be alive.\n\no <a href="https://www.hottakepod.com/">Hot Take</a> â A holistic, irreverent look at the climate crisis and all the ways we are talking, and not talking, about it. Done with a self-described feminist, race-forward lens.\n\no <a href="https://www.mothersofinvention.online/">Mothers of Invention</a> â Love, laughter, and great storytelling celebrate inspiring climate leaders around the world who are carving a path to climate justice for all. Hosted by a former Irish president.\n\no <a href="http://www.sustainababble.fish/">Sustainababble</a> â A weekly podcast about the environment that is topical, humorous, cathartic, and calls out the guff some talk in the name of saving the planet.\n\nWe would love to hear from you if you have ideas to improve this list. Send us a message at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>.',description:"One way to learn about climate change and environmental actions is to subscribe to a climate podcast! You get a deeper understanding of the free and easy solutions to fit into your day, especially when on the go or lounging around at home.\n\nAs you listen to the amazing audio stories it naturally builds up your knowledge bank and makes getting into conversations with others about the climate emergency easier to do.",summary:"Want to learn more about climate change and what can be done about it? Try listening to a climate change podcast. There are so many to choose from, so try some out and see what resonates with you.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@melanie_sophie'>Melanie Pongratz</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recOTx73tYe2CAIYU",id:510,slug:"510-follow-sustainable-influencers",title:"Follow sustainable influencers",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/510-follow-sustainable-influencers",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recojFBNwoKShcwqh","recSXWQxbVYoEjRi0","rec4INtWdKRcW19Es"],tips:'⢠Here are some options to get you started. If they end up not being your style, then simply unfollow.\n\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/ClimateTown">Climate Town</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href=\'https://www.youtube.com/@ClimateAdam\'>Climate Adam</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/MadeleineOlivia">Madeliene Olivia</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/SustainablyVegan">Sustainably Vegan</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/Gittemary">Gittemary Johansen</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/Shelbizleee">Shelbizlee</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/TheFairlyLocalVegan">The Fairly Local Family</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJZTjBlrnDHYmf0F-eYXA3Q">Self Sufficient Me</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRBwLPbXGsI2cJe9W1zfSjQ">Just Have a Think</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href="https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCjaBxCyjLpIRyKOd8uw_S4w">Dr Gilbz</a> (YouTube)\n- <a href=\'https://www.youtube.com/@NotJustBikes\'>Not Just Bikes</a> (YouTube)\n\n- <a href="https://www.instagram.com/earthrise.studio/">@earthrise.studio</a> (Instagram)\n- <a href="https://www.instagram.com/lesswastelaura/">@lesswastelaura</a> (Instagram)\n- <a href="https://www.instagram.com/cloverhogan/">@cloverhogan</a> (Instagram)\n- <a href="https://www.instagram.com/futureearth/">@futureearth</a> (Instagram)\n\n- <a href="https://twitter.com/KHayhoe">@KHayhoe</a> (Twitter)\n- <a href="https://twitter.com/ClimateHuman">@ClimateHuman</a> (Twitter)\n\n- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/climatesteps">Climate Steps</a> (Facebook)\n- <a href="https://www.facebook.com/easyecotip">Easy Eco Tips</a> (Facebook)\n\n- <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@climatehuman">@climatehuman</a> (TikTok)\n\n⢠You can also search for related hashtags such as #climatechange, #climatecrisis, #sustainableliving, or similar terms to find interesting accounts and content.\n\n⢠Do you know of other accounts that should be on the list above? Especially TikTok one
1s. Please reach out and let us know. You can send us a message at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>',description:"Do you enjoy social media or online videos? Are you a visual learner? Following sustainable influencers is an excellent way to learn more about sustainability.\n\nPlus, sharing their content is an easy way to help introduce topics to your friends and family. It may even lead to interesting discussions and help them discover new fun things.\n\nIf you are not a regular social media user, subscribing helps boost them in their platform algorithms to others who may have never seriously considered sustainability before!",summary:"Following sustainable influencers on social media can educate and inspire. Sharing their content introduces others to sustainability ideas to improve our world. Subscribing and engaging also increase their reach and help spread awareness.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@nate_dumlao'>Nathan Dumlao</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recoIVnrZrvgKbTCn",id:515,slug:"515-avoid-hotel-toiletries",title:"Avoid hotel toiletries",categories:["Travel & Transport","Stuff"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/515-avoid-hotel-toiletries",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Community & Institutions"],related:["recaTQxBOTF2l6Yia","recPUMZjfH3OBJlhR","recSPqCDsmVGvqsib"],tips:"⢠Barred toiletries are easy to travel with. However, if you use bottled toiletries, try investing in reusable travel-sized bottles to put your products in. You can also bring the bottles in their original size, but naturally, that is more to carry around.\n\n⢠If you are traveling with someone, encourage them to follow in your footsteps!\n\n⢠Consider sharing on social media when a hotel does it right! Spread the positive word.",description:'Bringing your own toiletries is not only more convenient because you know
1what you are getting out of your products, but it also reduces the amount of plastic you consume. I know the mini shampoos and conditioners are adorable, but try to admire rather than use them! Bonus points if you use barred soaps, shampoos, and conditioners! Extra bonus points if you mention to the hotel staff that you prefer bulk dispenser options and not all the plastic.\n\nWhen you avoid the plasticized products left for you, you prevent the need to replace them for the next guest. This may not seem like a lot, but if enough people bring their own toiletries, the amount of plastic needed drops. This saves more plastics from being purchased, which speaks volumes to the producers of these products.\n\nPlastic is made from fossil fuels and <a href="https://climatesteps.org/2019/07/06/plastic-climate-change-part-1/">contributes to climate change on all parts of its life cycle</a>, which for some plastics has been shown to almost never end. Having single-use plastic is the worst! Help hotels get away from that.',summary:"By bringing your own toiletries, you reduce plastic pollution from the small throw-away ones you typically find in a hotel. You will also know what to expect with your own items.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recvR9bUMH954ZjWz",id:516,slug:"516-seek-out-paper-tape",title:"Seek out paper tape",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/516-seek-out-paper-tape",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recMXKehK3GVBYBCg","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recO63UjilEa8Ss2R"],description:"What, did you say paper tape? Paper tape is exactly the same as regular plastic tape functionally. Only, it is better because it is sustainable and does not take 100+ years to decompose and muck up the environment like its clear plastic alternative!\n\nWhat exactly is paper tape? It is any kind of tape that is made from paper that does not include plastic as part of the mix. There are various sizes so that you can use paper tape at work for arts and crafts, gift-wrapping, packing, and shipping.\n\nTypical clear plastic tape is just what you think it is. Plastic. All of it. The tape itself, the dispenser, and the roll it is on. Those are three good reasons to make a switch. This is a simple way to keep reducing your plastic consumption bit by bit.",summary:"Paper tape is a sustainable alternative to plastic tape. You can use it for arts and crafts, gift-wrapping, packing, and shipping to reduce your plastic consumption.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@klerwonder'>Kara Vernacova</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDcdivV8VHAhQjp",id:526,slug:"526-utilize-your-freezer",title:"Utilize your freezer",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/526-utilize-your-freezer",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recH5ooOH1daHjuXn","recYJByCkXOl5asfw","rec8FUoDZyPRjqdWC"],tips:"⢠Explore freezing foods that you had not thought of freezing before. For example, fresh bread freezes and thaws quite well. Not sure if something will freeze nicely? Do a quick search online!\n\n⢠If you enjoy cooking, create a bigger portion of a tasty creation ahead of time and freeze the leftovers for fast and easy meals.\n\n⢠Freeze foods in portions fit for you and your household to make it easier to thaw or reheat as needed.\n\n⢠Find a great deal in the store for something perishable? Buy it up and put what you cannot eat right away in the freezer for later!\n\n⢠Keep older foods in the front of the freezer and newer foods near the back to help ensure you know what your options are.",description:"Is your food about to expire? Afraid you will not be able to eat it before it goes bad? Do not throw it out. Put it in the freezer!\n\nWhen you put items in the freezer, it preserves the state of the food to lock in freshness until you are ready to eat it. Then you have that food when you need it. It is a nice, easy way to reduce food waste!\n\nNot only will you make the most out of your purchases by extending their lifespan, but you are also saving money. Plus, you will not have to replace items as quickly!",summary:"Freezing food preserves its freshness and reduces waste. Save money and time by freezing soon to expire foods, and plan ahead by freezing larger portions for future meals.",additionalResources:"https://www.foodsafety.gov/food-safety-charts/cold-food-storage-charts",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@dev_irl'>Dev Benjamin</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recQdlRZmCqYLSFnl",id:529,slug:"529-wear-reusable-face-masks",title:"Wear reusable face masks",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/529-wear-reusable-face-masks",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ð Protect the Oceans","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recQegFLMFzbJyZ21","rec5qSpThD0EaeFNP","recQWOpWjRwimLZsl"],tips:"⢠Make sure your mask has at least two cloth layers for better protection.\n\n⢠Wash your reusable mask regularly to maximize protection and keep it fresh.",description:'If you wear disposable face masks, opt for a reusable option to avoid waste if you feel comfortable doing so. You will save money by investing in a few quality ones rather than continuing to pay for disposable ones.\n\nIt has been recorded <a href="https://www.nbcnews.com/shopping/eco-friendly/eco-friendly-face-mask-n1264810">that over 1.5 BILLION face masks entered the ocean in 2020, producing over 5,000 tons of pollution</a>. Furthermore, some of these masks are estimated to take <a href="https://www.wastefreeoceans.org/post/plastic-masks-take-450-years-to-decompose-in-nature">more than a century to decompose because they are made out of plastic</a>. Plus you avoid <a href="https://www.news-medical.net/news/20210505/Disposable-face-masks-release-potentially-dangerous-chemical-pollutants.aspx">the chemicals that are in single-use masks</a>.',summary:"Disposable face masks are contributing to pollution and take centuries to decompose. Cho
1ose reusable masks with multiple cloth layers to reduce waste.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@brianasarejr'>Brian Asare</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNpI6zAPt2Djk6B",id:548,slug:"548-support-soil-biodiversity",title:"Support soil biodiversity",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/548-support-soil-biodiversity",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health","ð§ Preserve Water"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u","recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3"],tips:'1) Understanding the issue. You can do that by reading more about soil biodiversity, watching documentaries, or taking online courses.\n\nHere are a few options to get you started:\n\n⢠<a href="https://chloridefree.org/soil-biodiversity-contributions-and-threats/">Soil Biodiversity: Contributions and Threats</a>\n\n⢠<a href="http://www.fao.org/3/cb1928en/cb1928en.pdf">State of Knowledge of Soil Biodiversity</a>\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hbdsHOnd_gw">Keep soil alive, protect soil biodiversity (5 minute video)</a>\n\n2) Talking about it with others. Talking about an issue can be very impactful. It helps to draw attention to the cause and consequently, more people can become aware of the problem. As you learn more you will have more and more confidence to talk about it!\n\n3) Support organizations doing this work. It is helpful to support initiatives that are currently in place, to expand their reach and impact. You can do that by sharing their work, becoming a volunteer, or making a financial contribution.\n\nHere are a few good ones to consider:\n\n⢠<a href="http://chloridefree.org/">Chloride Free Foundation</a>\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.soilfoodweb.com/">Soil Food Web School</a>\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.globalsoilbiodiversity.org/">Global Soil Biodiversity Initiative</a>\n\nAlso, if you want to go deeper, research options in your area to get involved locally!',description:'Soil organisms play a crucial role in soil carbon sequestration, which captures carbon from the atmosphere and stores it in the soil for hundreds of years. Soil is also one of the main reservoirs of biodiversity in the world. These organisms also provide other important benefits, including food production, improved human health, and water purification. There is an amazing dance going on below our feet!\n\nThese tiny organisms are literally out of sight and usually out of mind. Soil organisms correspond to 25% of the world\'s biodiversity. However, it is estimated that <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/environment/archives/soil/pdf/soil_biodiversity_brochure_en.pdf">only 1% of soil microorganisms species are currently known</a>.\n\nHealthy soil needs a healthy environment. Given the best raw materials and working conditions, the soil will function at full capacity, delivering a streamlined service and sustaining life above ground. But soil biodiversity will be impaired if it is deprived of what it needs â often because of humans â and its ability to work will falter.\n\nUnfortunately, certain farming practices, gardening approaches, new construction, and manufacturing pollutant dumping are upsetting life underground. This impacts life above ground through the plants we eat and use to beautify our world. If it goes too far, the ultimate result is desertification.\n\nUnderstanding the issue, talking about it with others, doing what you can in your area, and supporting organizations focused on this issue are great ways to support soil biodiversity and our prosperity.',summary:"Soil biodiversity sustains life but faces threats from human activities. Learn about soil biodiversity, talk about it with others, and support organizations working to protect it to ensure a healthy environment for future generations.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@gabrielj_photography'>Gabriel Jimenez</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recViIlG0cWuQuveE",id:552,slug:"552-within-walking-distance-walk",title:"Within walking distance? Walk!",categories:["Travel & Transport","Outside"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/552-within-walking-distance-walk",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family"],related:["recBJj769Cgb2mSkT","recMbA6Nx9mDq7k85","recPDFHnGxxSr3yNO","recTj11S8Wr6iT5t7","rec3oUdG3YlLDhzrw"],tips:"⢠Not a big walker now? No w
1orries. Do not overdo it at first and ease in. Start small and your body will likely adapt for the better.\n\n⢠Wondering how to remind yourself to walk more often? Keep a good pair of walking shoes by the front door. Also, think ahead about the specific places that you regularly go to that are a reasonable walking distance.\n\n⢠To make your outing better, consider bringing along a bag to carry things, some water, or listening to music or a good podcast.\n\n⢠If you need to carry a lot coming back from shopping, a backpack to distribute the weight across your shoulders and back makes a big difference.\n\n⢠Think about walking when going somewhere with friends or family. The more the merrier! Not to mention, it is nice to have company on the way.",description:"Have some errands to run, like getting the groceries or picking up a few things? Or perhaps you are going to visit a friend or getting something to eat? If it is within walking distance, consider ditching the car and walking instead!\n\nWalking is a great bonus way to get some low-intensity exercise into your day while reducing pollution. Many people say they just feel better from getting out and walking more often.\n\nBy not using a car, you also save some money and will likely feel a deeper connection to where you live. It is incredible how much more we notice when walking. Plus, there is no stress from parking or dealing with other drivers!",summary:"Ditch the car for short trips and walk instead! It is a great way to get exercise, save money, and feel more connected to your surroundings. Start small, keep walking shoes handy, and enjoy the benefits of walking with friends or family.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.huffpost.com/entry/walking-transportation_b_4559012 \n\nhttps://www.bustle.com/articles/63550-8-ways-your-life-gets-better-when-you-walk-instead-of-drive",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@areksan'>Arek Adeoye</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recQiukiDkGPvvJWM",id:557,slug:"557-save-with-washable-air-filters",title:"Save with washable air filters",categories:["Home & Work","Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/557-save-with-washable-air-filters",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recJLXYVZnqX2UOqs","recSdN0wktQ7MdDdZ","recHetdi9Xa5tibbt"],tips:"⢠Look at the size of your current filters and then search online for a washable version that is the same size. You will likely find better options online than in a store.\n\n⢠A key consideration is the quality of the filter. Filters are usually rated on their effectiveness. A higher MERV rating or lower ePM1 number indicates higher quality air cleaning. The trade-off naturally is the cost.\n\n⢠Consider buying one washable filter at first. This helps with the upfront cost and you can see what you like before spending a lot of money at once if you need multiple ones.",description:"Do you have a heating or cooling system that uses replaceable filters to clean the air? If not, then hit Not for me. If so, read on!\n\nPaying for disposable filters you throw away after each use is a waste. It wastes money, wastes the materials to create new ones and wastes space in a landfill. Did you know that there are reusable, washable air filters that do the same job and save you money and time buying new ones? You wash out the dirt and particles they catch, dry them, and use them again!\n\nA wash
1able filter costs more upfront, but they last years, so they quickly pay for themselves and then some. Besides saving you money, it is also better for the environment, with less waste being thrown out every month.",summary:"Tired of wasting money on disposable air filters? Switch to washable ones! They cost more upfront but save money in the long run and reduce waste. Look online for options in the same size as your current filters.",amountSavings:"$$"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recxoqWCFmVngnlnv",id:558,slug:"558-read-books-about-climate-change",title:"Read books about climate change",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/558-read-books-about-climate-change",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recoGaxJbDtjuKovW","recpjcRbPHrJS3YOm","recPKDArf1GDHPae8"],tips:'The Earth Hero Team has examined the available climate action and environmental books. We created the following list that we thought you might be interested in. Take a look and find one or two to start with. Give them a try and go from there!\n\nNaturally, checking out books or audiobooks from the library is a great way to stay informed for free.\n\nAction against the climate crisis\n\n⢠"Electrify: An Optimist\'s Playbook for Our Clean Energy Future" by Saul Griffith\n⢠"The Climate Book" by Greta Thunberg\n⢠"Being the Change" by Peter Kalmus. Available for <a href="https://peterkalmus.net/books/read-by-chapter-being-the-change/">free on his website</a>.\n⢠"The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis" by Christiana Figueres and Tom Rivett-Carnac\n⢠"How to avoid a climate disaster" by Bill Gates\n⢠"Drawdown: The Most Comprehensive Plan Ever Proposed to Reverse Global Warming" by Paul Hawken. The 100 most substantive solutions to reverse global warming, based on meticulous research by leading scientists and policymakers around the world.\n⢠"All We Can Save" by Ayana Elizabeth Johnson and Katharine K. Wilkinson\n⢠"The Uninhabitable Earth" by David Wallace-Wells\n⢠"A Life on Our Planet" by David Attenborough\n⢠"Regeneration: Ending the Climate Crisis in One Generation" by Paul Hawken\n⢠"The Ice at the End" of the World by Jon Gerter\n⢠"The Watchmanâs Rattle" by Rebecca D Costa\n\nEconomy and environment\n\n⢠"Doughnut Economics" by Kate Raworth\n⢠"Windfall: The Booming Business of Global Warming" by McKenzie Funk\n⢠"Less is More: How Degrowth Will Save the World" by Jason Hickle\n⢠"Impact: Reshaping capitalism to drive real change" by Sir Ronald Cohen\n\nClimate Justice\n\n⢠"A Bigger Picture: My Fight to Bring a New African Voice to the Climate Crisis" by Vanessa Nakate\n⢠"Braiding Sweetgrass" by Robin Wall Kimmerer\n⢠"Consumed: The Need for Collective Change: Colonialism, Climate and Consumerism" by Aja Barber\n⢠"Terrible thing to Waste" by Harriet A. Washington\n⢠"As Long as the Grass Grows" by Dina Gilio-Whitaker\n\nOcean impact\n\n⢠"The World Is Blue: How Our Fate and the Ocean\'s Are One" by Sylvia A. Earle\n⢠"Oceana: Our Endangered Oceans and What We Can Do to Save Them" by Ted Danson\n⢠"Seasick: The Hidden Ecological Crisis of the Global Ocean" by Alanna Mitchell\n⢠"The Sixth Extinction: An Unnatural History" by Elizabeth Kolbert\n\nOther books to consider\n\n⢠"This Changes Everything" by Naomi Klein.\n⢠"Falter" by Bill McKibben. A powerful and sobering call to arms to save not only our planet but also our humanity.\n⢠"101 Ways to Go Zero Waste" by Kathryn Kellogg\n⢠"The Story of More: How We Got to Climate Change and Where to Go from Here" by Hope Jahren \n⢠"Losing Earth: A Recent History" by Nathaniel Rich\n⢠"Our House in on Fire" by Greta Thunberg. The story of how Greta decided to go on strike from school, which ignited a worldwide rebellion.\n⢠"Saving Us: A Climate Scientist\'s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divi
1ded World" by Katharine Hayhoe\n⢠"Spiritual Ecology" by Llewellyn Vaughan-Lee (Editor)\n⢠"Seeds of Hope" by Jane Goodall\n\nDo you have a book to recommend for this list? Please let us know at <a href="mailto: [email protected]">[email protected]</a>.',description:"Climate change and environmental issues are enormous, broad, but also often interwoven topics. Reading books on them helps you understand why we have reached this point, what the future could look like, and how you can be part of the solution. This knowledge may make you intrigued, angry, or anxious, but it will also make you want to take action â action to create a better society.",summary:"Reading books on climate change and environmental issues helps you understand the current situation and what the future could look like. Check out the available literature to stay informed and take action to create a better world.",additionalResources:"https://climatesteps.org/resources/resources-books/ ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@blazphoto">Blaz Photo</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec9MtN2TT1Ep9WTJ",id:561,slug:"561-avoid-buying-fast-fashion",title:"Avoid buying fast fashion",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/561-avoid-buying-fast-fashion",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ðï¸ System Change","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recAB13YQPWm2hiCD","rec4y4muHgm1fPZNB","recewRkjpusV1t5eZ"],tips:"Here are some ideas for some of the best ways to put this into action! Try different things and figure out what works for you!\n\n⢠Wear the clothes that you have. You likely have a lot of great pieces already, including many that you have not worn lately.\n\n⢠Try different combinations if you are looking to spice it up with something new.\n\n⢠Looking to add some new items? Check out local thrift stores or online secondhand stores. It has never been easier to shop in this way.\n\n⢠If you are buying new, support eco-friendly and ethically certified brands. Also, try to shop for clothes that are timeless rather than trendy. The latter you may regret in a year.\n\n⢠Avoid cheaper plastic fabrics and rayon, and use more sustainable fibers instead, like cotton, when possible.\n\n⢠Done with some of your clothes? Donate or sell old clothes that can still be reused. Keep the cycle going to avoid more new stuff being created at the expense of people, planet, and pocketbooks.",description:'Fast fashion is when cheap clothes get rapidly produced in high volumes. Short-term trends are jumped on and low-quality products are pumped out. It is a common way clothes are created, and unfortunately, it harms the environment, garment workers, and, ultimately, your money if you take part.\n\nThe fashion industry is estimated to make up <a href="https://wearzeitgeist.com/fashion-sustainability-ethics/fast-fashion-statistics">around a tenth of greenhouse emissions globally</a>. How is this possible? The materials, creation, and shipping require a lot of energy and water. Often when acquiring too many clothes, <a href="https://wearzeitgeist.com/fashion-sustainability-ethics/fast-fashion-statistics">people throw out more than half of garments within just a year</a> because they are not intended for long-term use. That means a fast cycle to create more cheap new stuff. It is also indicative of the low quality of the clothes being manufactured; they tear and wear out very easily, and buttons and hems come loose.\n\nTry to invest in garments that you are inspired to wear more frequently and that will last. Over time, higher-quality clothes that are timeless in style pay off dramatically because of your recurrent wearing and not needing to constantly buy new stuff. With this approach, it is easy to end up with a fantastic wardrobe with many items that are 10+ years old.\n\nFurther, be
1cause fast fashion clothes are cheap to buy, they are incredibly cheap to make. That requires workers in sweatshops to produce these items for low pay. Many work in conditions you likely would not care to be a part of. Most of the workers that are employed by these fast fashion companies <a href="https://www.panaprium.com/blogs/i/fast-fashion-facts">cannot live off of the wage they make</a>. Plus, a large number of these sweatshops are either in violation of human rights policies or are run illegally.\n\nAn effective way for companies to hear that you care is through the way you spend your money. The fast fashion industry is estimated to generate <a href="https://www.panaprium.com/blogs/i/fast-fashion-facts">almost three trillion dollars annually</a>. Encourage these fast fashion, underpaying companies to make changes by keeping away and spending your money on quality items, secondhand items, or by taking care of the great pieces you already have.',summary:"Fast fashion is an industry based on producing low-quality, cheap clothes meant to be worn a handful of times and then discarded. By purchasing high-quality items instead, you can reduce waste and climate pollution, and save money in the long term.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.panaprium.com/blogs/i/fast-fashion-facts\n\nhttps://fortune.com/2022/05/04/shein-fast-fashion-gen-z-consumers/ ",amountSavings:"$$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@riolec'>Rio Lecatompessy</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7",id:566,slug:"566-choose-eco-friendly-candy-wrapping",title:"Choose eco-friendly candy wrapping",categories:["Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/566-choose-eco-friendly-candy-wrapping",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ System Change"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recEz45BJOtmYtBIY","recW9KaitubY5oJNq","recNqNjQyMRYNuAve"],tips:'⢠A key is to avoid plastic and packing that mixes materials. The general rule is that <a href="https://www.candyclub.com/blog/can-candy-wrappers-be-recycled/">the fewer materials something is made of, the easier (and less expensive) it is to recycle</a>.\n\n⢠If you are looking for a certain type of candy, check if it is available in bulk. If it is self-service candy, be even more eco-friendly, and bring a reusable bag!\n\n⢠Want to have some fun making your own candy? Do <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+your+own+candy">a quick search online</a> to look for inspiration and something that satisfies your sweet tooth.',description:'One of the tricky things about our favorite sweet treats is that the packaging is usually made up of mostly low-quality plastic, which means that it is <a href="https://www.rts.com/blog/reduce-your-halloween-candy-plastic-waste/">too difficult to be processed by recycling plants</a>. Even if you put candy packaging in the recycling, it will likely end up in landfills. Plus, it increases the cost of recycling because these wrappers need to be separated from things that can be recycled.\n\nWhen possible, purchase candy with recyclable packaging, such as foil, paper, or cardboard. Buying in bulk is another option to avoid extra wrappers. You could even make your own candy and wrap it in environmentally friendly paper.\n\nThis is admittedly an ambitious action to take. It is easier to find candy with plastic wrappers. Do what you can and reward the products with a more sustainable approach, but do not fret if you are not perfect. Hopefully, the future will bring better options.',summary:"Most candy packaging is non-recyclable plastic. Opt for candy with recyclable packaging, buy in bulk, or make homemade treats wrapped in eco-friendly materials to reduce a little waste.",additionalResources:"https://www.greenmatters.com/p/zero-waste-halloween-candy\n\nhttps://www.candyclub.com/blog/can-candy-wrappers-be-recycled/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mattschwartz'>Matt Schwartz</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recETjiatqc0vyv6j",id:569,slug:"569-trick-or-treat-with-reusable-bags",title:"Trick or treat with reusable bags",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/569-trick-or-treat-with-reusable-bags",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recibf9tOU2nQXFjg","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recgcQJp8d0FFX39b","rec3nRYHE5wzFtt5e"],tips:"⢠Do not have a bag handy? Use a pillowcase instead! Or, make your own container using the materials you have handy.\n\n⢠If you are up for it, feel free to de
1sign your own spooky trick-or-treat bag. Personalize it with any extra materials you have around the house.\n\n⢠Find a good place that you will remember to store your fun Halloween accessories to use again next year.",description:"This year, when you go trick or treating, consider using a reusable cloth, canvas, or another container to collect your Halloween candy. Buying a new plastic trick-or-treat bucket every year may be tempting, but it just creates more unnecessary stuff, mucking up the world.",summary:"Consider using a reusable container for Halloween candy to reduce waste. Use a pillowcase or make your own bag to personalize and store for next year.",additionalResources:"https://greenerideal.com/guides/1030-5-tips-for-an-environmentally-friendly-halloween/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/kids-in-mummy-costumes-5582257/'>Photo by Daisy Anderson</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNW5InAiON24oWQ",id:575,slug:"575-use-more-sustainable-dental-floss",title:"Use more sustainable dental floss",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396290/actions/575-use-more-sustainable-dental-floss.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],tips:'⢠Browse options online to get a sense of what is available with <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=water+flosser">water flossers</a> and <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=bamboo+or+cellulose+floss">bamboo floss</a>. You may not find the best option right away, but once you do, you will hopefully be set for life.\n\n⢠If you go for a water flosser, consider purchasing a used one to avoid waste and save some money.\n\n⢠If these items are inaccessible or not comfortable for you, do not worry. Your dental health is more important, so do what you think is best.',description:'For strong, healthy teeth and gums, cleaning between your teeth is an important part of dental care. Most conventional dental floss is made from nylon or other synthetic plastics that are <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42314826/">not biodegradable</a> and can persist in the environment for long periods. Reducing how much you throw away or avoiding plastic-based options can help reduce a bit of waste and plastic pollution.\n\nThere are a few options to consider depending on your preference.\n\n1) A <a href="https://www.mouthhealthy.org/all-topics-a-z/water-flossers">water flosser</a> avoids daily string waste.\n\n2) Verified bamboo or other cellulose-based floss in refillable, plastic-free packaging.\n\n3) Reusing ordinary disposable floss or floss picks prevents waste also. However, be careful about them fraying, and they need to be cleaned well after each use to avoid carrying bacteria back into the mouth.\n\nKeep your teeth healthy while reducing a small amount of daily plastic waste.',summary:"Keep your teeth and gums healthy while reducing plastic waste. Try a water flosser, bamboo or other cellulose-based floss, or carefully reuse what you have.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@ocilie">Oana Cristina</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>.'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec2URJvCT6c09WwT",id:579,slug:"579-participate-in-a-no-buy",title:"Participate in a no-buy",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396292/actions/579-participate-in-a-no-buy.jpg",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Save Money","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH","recON2Tgth4sPhEFN","rec9MtN2TT1Ep9WTJ","recfc2IIQdoRCLspB"],tips:"⢠Decide what you will and will not buy during the challenge. Start small by aiming for one week. If it goes well, extend it for another week or a month.\n\n⢠A no-buy does not mean you can never buy anything again. It is just rewiring your brain to show that you do not truly need every item you buy. Allow reasonable exceptions for essentials, emergencie
1s, repairs, or necessary replacements.\n\n⢠Before buying something, consider whether you can repair, repurpose, borrow, swap, or find an alternative among the things you already own.\n\n⢠Consider asking someone to join you. Sharing progress, challenges, and encouragement can make it easier to follow through.\n\n⢠There are groups one can join to swap things, or even go to for encouragement. Search online for terms like Buy-Nothing, Freecycle, or Decrease Plastic to explore what is active in your area.",description:'A no-buy is a self-imposed set of spending rules that can be adapted to your lifestyle. Your rules might allow spending only on essentials, such as groceries, bills, transportation, medicine, and necessary repairs, while pausing online shopping or other nonessential purchases. If something is genuinely needed, you might allow yourself to buy it secondhand. Try the challenge for a week, a month, or even longer.\n\nOne of the most effective ways to reduce waste is to avoid unnecessary purchases before that waste is created. <a href="https://www.epa.gov/smm/sustainable-materials-management-non-hazardous-materials-and-waste-management-hierarchy">Source reduction and reuse</a> are the most environmentally preferred waste-management strategy. In other words, when you do not buy something new, the materials, energy, and transport needed to create it are never used in the first place.\n\nShopping can sometimes become a quick way to cope with stress or improve our mood, often called âretail therapy.â A no-buy allows you to notice which purchases meet a real need and which are driven by habit, convenience, advertising, or a temporary urge. Buying less can save money, reduce demand for raw materials and energy, limit packaging and product waste, and reduce support for supply chains where workers may face unsafe conditions.\n\nSetting your own goals or participating in a no-buy group can make the challenge easier to continue. The experience can teach you to use what you already have and pause before buying something you may not really need.',summary:"Reduce waste with a no-buy challenge. Set rules that fit your life, buy only essentials, and borrow, swap, repair, or choose secondhand before buying something new to save money and reduce pollution.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.greenmatters.com/p/no-buy-month-stop-shop. \n\nhttps://freecycle.net/",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@kharp">Katie Harp</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recnYLx5KfEERsUNT",id:581,slug:"581-purchase-farm-pumpkins",title:"Purchase farm pumpkins",categories:["Outside","Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/581-purchase-farm-pumpkins",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","âï¸ Improve Air Quality"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recibf9tOU2nQXFjg","recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7","recETjiatqc0vyv6j"],tips:'⢠Discover pumpkin farms near you by conducting a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=farm+pumpkins+near+me">quick internet search</a>.\n\n⢠So many display pumpkins are edible if not carved first. Even the carved ones you can save and toast the seeds.\n\n⢠Pumpkins <a href="https://www.newfolks.com/activities/halloween-pumpkin-buying/">usually last two to three months before they start to go bad</a> as long as you do not start cutting into them.',description:'Pumpkins are an iconic symbol of Autumn. But did you know that purchasing pumpkins from a local farm is more environmentally friendly than from a supermarket? Depending on where you live, pumpkins travel a long way to reach your local grocery store. Buying your pumpkins from a local farm reduces the pumpkin\'s carbon footprint.\n\nBy supporting local farms, <a href="https://well.org/environmental/10-advantages-of-buying-local">you encourage access to fresher produce, and you are helping to ensure that your local farms can keep providing for consumers like you</a>.',summary:"Support local farms by buying pumpkins there instead of at the supermarket. Look up nearby pumpkin farms online.",additionalResources:"https://www.ucanr.edu/datastoreFiles/608-319.pdf\nhttps://www.newfolks.com/activities/halloween-pumpkin-buying/\nhttps://www.marthastewart.com/2124321/pumpkin-varieties\n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@madebymarius">Marius Ciocirlan</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recGpB3XuOPfCWOmV",id:584,slug:"584-seal-those-cracks",title:"Seal those cracks",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/584-seal-those-cracks",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reci85wSWviPcDznH","re
1cVDsMK3snsbzdVl","recpf3PkXishK1bzB"],tips:'⢠The typical spots where air sneaks in and out are near windows and doors, electrical outlets, baseboards, fireplaces, recessed lighting, attics, dryer vents, and where utility lines come into your home.\n\n⢠A simple way to check for leaks is by using a lit match by a closed window or door. The smoke from the match will waver and move if you have a leak. If you can see light coming through a crack, the air is also getting through.\n\n⢠Not sure how to seal the leaks? There are lots of great tips online <a href="https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/air-sealing-your-home">like this</a>. You can also search for <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+seal+air+leaks+in+your+home">how-to-videos</a> to get more comfortable with the sealing process.\n\n⢠Want some help with this project? You can get a home energy audit or check if your utility company does a home energy assessment to find air leaks. The same people doing the audit or a handyman can then seal things up for you.',description:"Outside air can leak through the cracks around your windows, doors, and other openings. Reducing these air leaks benefits your comfort and the environment by reducing the energy used to keep your home at a steady temperature.\n\nCommon air-sealing techniques are caulking, weatherstripping, and adding spray foam barriers. With these techniques, you see quick returns on investments, often within a year. Give it a try and go on a hunt to seal those cracks!",summary:"Air can leak through cracks in your home, affecting comfort and energy use. Seal leaks with caulking, weatherstripping, and spray foam for a quick return on the investment and a more comfortable home.",additionalResources:"https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/services/do-it-yourself-energy-savings-projects/savings-project-how-seal-air-leaks-caulk\n\nhttps://www.energy.gov/energysaver/weatherize/air-sealing-your-home/weatherstripping",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@ozgut'>Ozgu Ozden</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMuf6aHHMZfYTtj",id:596,slug:"596-store-drinking-water",title:"Store drinking water",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/596-store-drinking-water",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reca3ofThAcccvGDb","rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V","recHlXBVPRebH3aer"],tips:'⢠Many authorities recommend storing four liters of water per person, per day. Ideally, your supply should last for at least three days if you have the space for it.\n\n⢠Ceramic, metal, and plastic containers are the best types to use. Check out <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/global-water-sanitation-hygiene/about/about-safe-water-storage.html">these recommendations</a> for more considerations for your water container.\n\n⢠Make sure your storage jugs are tightly sealed and labeled with the date you filled them. Tap water should be cycled through every six months. Sealed water may last longer, but that depends on the container. For example, <a href="https://www.thesurvivalistblog.net/how-long-can-you-store-water/">plastic can leach chemicals into the water</a> over long periods of time.\n\n⢠Keep the water out of sunlight to avoid water going bad sooner because the sunlight causes bacteria growth.\n\n⢠Another option is to collect water through a rain barrel, stream, or cistern. If doing so, water should be treated before drinking. The most effective treatment is <a href="https://traveltips.usatoday.com/long-boil-water-purification-62933.html">boiling it</a>. Alternatives are to use a water filter, cleansing tablets (limited usage), or bleach (with caution). Check out <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/water-emergency/about/">this site</a> to learn more.',description:"Drinking water is an absolute necessity for life, but supplies can be cut off or contaminated by various emergencie
1s. Having some water safely stored will help preserve your peace of mind and keep you hydrated if your regular water supply is interrupted.",summary:"Safe water storage is vital for emergencies when regular water access is compromised. Store recommended amounts in suitable containers, replace every six months, and consider alternative sources like rain barrels.",additionalResources:"https://www.cdc.gov/healthywater/emergency/creating-storing-emergency-water-supply.html\n\nhttps://foodrevolution.org/blog/home-water-treatment-systems/\n\nhttps://www.midwestmtn.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/MWM-specs-camping-water-filtration-07-21.pdf \n\nhttps://www.redcross.org/content/dam/redcross/atg/PDF_s/Preparedness___Disaster_Recovery/Disaster_Preparedness/Food_Safety/Food_and_Water-English.revised_7-09.pdf\n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@da_sikka_x'>Amritanshu Sikdar</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V",id:597,slug:"597-store-emergency-food",title:"Store emergency food",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/597-store-emergency-food",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["reca3ofThAcccvGDb","recg1hgw6VG5OgHFS","recHlXBVPRebH3aer"],tips:"⢠To build a food supply, start by noting what you are eating over the course of a week or two. Then design a food storage plan based on that.\n\n⢠Your store should be primarily made up of foods that do not need cooking, refrigeration, or other special preparation.\n\n⢠Store food safely away from pests, sunlight, moisture, heat, and air to avoid decay.\n\n⢠Set a reminder in your calendar to check expiration dates and cycle through the oldest food in your stash before it goes bad.\n\n⢠For additional flexibility, store a device with your food that will allow you at least to boil water even if your utilities have gone out.\n\n⢠If you use canned foods, store a manual can opener (not electric) with your food supplies.\n\n⢠Try to include familiar and favorite foods. They will be comforting as well as nourishing.\n\n⢠Have pets? Do not forget to calculate their needs in your emergency supply, too!",description:"While you may have lots of food in your home, that calculation may assume your refrigerator is functional, that you can cook, and that you have not run out of key ingredients. Play it safe and keep a separate emergency food stash that can easily feed you and your household, even if stores are closed and your appliances are not working.",summary:"Would your family be ok if the grocery stores closed for a few days? Keeping an emergency stash of food on hand could become vital in the event of an emergency.",additionalResources:"https://www.ready.gov/food\n\n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@adoucett'>Aaron Doucett</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec20qoqnHFsjFteG",id:598,slug:"598-make-a-neighbor-contact-list",title:"Make a neighbor contact list",categories:["Resilience","Family & Community"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/598-make-a-neighbor-contact-list",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["rec3bA6E9rzlIJe7f","reca3ofThAcccvGDb","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN"],tips:'⢠Are there existing organizations within your area that already connect people? For example, neighborhood organizations, block clubs, or religious groups. This could be a good place to start.\n\n⢠If there are no good existing groups to join up with, consider starting something simple and adding to it over time. For instance, create an online document with contact info so everyone can update their own information. Or perhaps an email list or text chain so it is easy for people to communicate.\n\n⢠As new people move to your area, invite them to join up and share contact info. It is a nice way to meet and welcome them.\n\n⢠Discuss with your neighbors about creating a phone tree, which is a way to contact people in emergencie
1s by having each person contact 1â2 people to share information. You can learn more about creating an effective phone tree <a href="https://www.infobloom.com/what-is-a-phone-tree.htm">here</a>.\n\n⢠Consider creating a hard copy list of those critical for you to know, seal it in a plastic bag, and put it in your evacuation go bag.',description:"In an emergency, you may need to contact your neighbors. It is easier to have a network in place before it is needed. Set up a way to connect with others easily, whether that is by exchanging emails and phone numbers or simply getting to know each other a little more so it is easy to knock on their door.\n\nThis action is a good excuse to get to know your neighbors better. It helps form a stronger community, makes living in your area more enjoyable, and removes barriers to working together to make local improvements.",summary:"Do you know how to contact your neighbors to check on them in the event of an emergency? Consider starting or joining a neighborhood organization or creating an online document with contact info.",additionalResources:"http://neighborhoodday.org/tools-and-templates/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mathyaskurmann'>Mathyas Kurmann</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec3bA6E9rzlIJe7f",id:599,slug:"599-get-walkie-talkies-with-friends",title:"Get walkie-talkies with friends",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/599-get-walkie-talkies-with-friends",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Household"],related:["reca3ofThAcccvGDb","rec20qoqnHFsjFteG","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN"],tips:'⢠There are a lot of different options. Do a quick <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=which+walkie+talkie+to+buy">search online</a> to learn more about the features, ranges, and options that make sense for your situation.\n\n⢠A good walkie-talkie has a pretty far range, making it easy to chat with someone who lives quite far away. However, the range can be less if you live in a dense city or mountainous area.\n\n⢠Once you know what type you want, you can likely find good used options to buy online. If it makes sense, save some money and avoid the pollution created from buying new.\n\n⢠Whichever model you get, be sure to practice before you need to use them in an emergency. They are fun to play with, so go for it!\n\n⢠At a minimum, agree on what channel and under what circumstances everyone in your local network should use their walkie-talkies. Write the agreed channel on a piece of masking tape and stick that on the walkie-talkie.\n\n⢠Many walkie-talkies have an integrated battery and come with a charging station. If you keep it plugged in and in place, it will stay charged for an emergency.',description:"Even mobile phone systems can go down in an emergency. Share walkie-talkies and a protocol for using them with your local friends and family! Then, even when other communication has been cut off, you can still pass on news, ask for help, and coordinate assistance.",summary:"Cellular systems can fail in an emergency, so share walkie-talkies with friends and family to
1stay connected if needed. Do a quick online search to find the best walkie-talkie for your situation and practice using it before an emergency.",additionalResources:"https://emergencyplanguide.org/walkie-talkies-a-few-of-my-favorite-things/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/pix1861-468748/">Csaba Nagy</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/>Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reca3ofThAcccvGDb",id:600,slug:"600-pack-a-go-bag",title:"Pack a go bag",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/600-pack-a-go-bag",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec20qoqnHFsjFteG","rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V","recMuf6aHHMZfYTtj"],tips:'⢠Go bags, or evacuation kits as they are sometimes called, are meant to be easy to grab and to keep with you, so try not to overload yours. Figure out where you would go if you had to evacuate, and take just the essentials you would need to get there and to function once you were there.\n\n⢠There are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+a+go+evacuation+bag">many great articles online</a> about how to make a go bag. Read a few, and then pull together what works for your situation.\n\n⢠Common items may include a small amount of emergency food and water, copies of critical documents, a headlamp, batteries, a first-aid kit, a change of clothing, and critical personal items such as medicine.\n\n⢠If you live somewhere with pre-assigned evacuation routes, keep a map of the relevant route in your bag.\n\n⢠Place your go bag where it is easily accessible and not likely to be forgotten in a rush.',description:"Disaster can strike quickly, so it is important to have a few essential items collected and ready to go. Pack a go bag for yourself and others in your household, and you will have what you most need, even if you have to leave in a hurry. It also leaves more time to think about what else you might need to do in a stressful situation.",summary:"Intense weather events are now more frequent and severe due to climate change. Prepare by pre-packing an essential go-bag. It is crucial for emergency evacuations.",additionalResources:"https://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/2019-1-january-february/gear-guide/how-pack-go-bag",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/paulbr75-2938186/">Paul Brennan</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/>Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recNrZ0iCyKQJ7LvW",id:601,slug:"601-get-a-few-headlamps",title:"Get a few headlamps",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/601-get-a-few-headlamps",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["reca3ofThAcccvGDb","recMuf6aHHMZfYTtj","rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V"],description:"Cheap and convenient, a headlamp puts light where you most need it while keeping your hands free to do things during an emergency. Keep a few in convenient locations around the home in case the lights go out.",summary:"Keep a headlamp in convenient locations around your home for emergencies. They are also very handy for outdoor activities at night.",additionalResources:"https://www.rei.com/blog/hike/how-to-choose-headlamps",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@greg_rosenke'>Greg Rosenke</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recibf9tOU2nQXFjg",id:622,slug:"622-buy-secondhand-halloween-costumes",title:"Buy secondhand Halloween costumes",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/622-buy-secondhand-halloween-costumes",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Household"],related:["recAB13YQPWm2hiCD","re
1c4y4muHgm1fPZNB","receEhRg9Lu7cPbdI"],tips:'⢠Visit your local thrift and second-hand stores and browse for Halloween-related clothing items and donated costumes. It might spark some ideas for you and you can build your costume around the things you find.\n\n⢠To complete your costume, you may need to buy some brand-new items, and that is okay! We still want to live a good life. The goal is to reduce textile waste, so buy as many second-hand items as you can.\n\n⢠Have fun and think outside the box! Looking for inspiration? A quick <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=thrift+store+halloween+costume+ideas">internet search</a> may help you find Halloween inspiration.\n\n⢠To build inexpensive costumes, create DIY outfits at home. You can always rely on your clothes, such as hats, scarves, sports equipment, and jewelry, to make a great costume.',description:'This Halloween, consider shopping for a second-hand or homemade costume instead of buying a brand-new one!\n\nSadly, <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/canada/en/story/44284/haunted-by-halloween-waste-try-these-5-low-waste-tricks-and-tips/">most textiles end up in the landfill</a>. Rather than purchasing costumes sold by large retailers that create a lot of pollution, go to a local thrift store, second-hand store, or second-hand online marketplace to create your own costume. It will reduce textile waste and you can always reuse or share it with a friend next year!',summary:"To reduce textile waste and save money, consider shopping second-hand or making your own Halloween costume. Visit thrift stores or search online for options.",additionalResources:"https://www.malathebrand.com/blogs/news/how-to-have-an-eco-friendly-and-affordable-halloween-in-2021",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@xavi_cabrera'>Xavi Cabrera</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDB77jTpJma7kye",id:630,slug:"630-share-the-earth-hero-app",title:"Share the Earth Hero app!",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396295/actions/630-share-the-earth-hero-app.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec7niZRqsTueFn2J","rec1RqWoi5xmriEUy","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX"],tips:'⢠Send the <a href="https://www.earthhero.org/">Earth Hero app link</a> by text, email, or social media. Start with family members, close friends, colleagues, or anyone who might be interested in climate action.\n\n⢠Perhaps mention why you enjoy using Earth Hero and how it makes taking action easier. Mention a favorite feature and how the app helps you track progress and stay motivated.\n\n⢠Consider sharing an action you have completed or plan to try. A specific example can make your invitation more relatable.\n\n⢠If you want to go even further, create a group within the app to achieve actions and share progress together.',description:"Share to show you care!\n\nSpreading the word about Earth Hero can help more people take climate-positive actions and multiply the impact of each step toward a better planet. By sharing Earth Hero with friends, family, or colleagues, you can create a ripple effect that encourages others to adopt greener habits, improve their lives, and join the movement for a more sustainable future. Even sharing the app with a few people can expand its reach, especially if they introduce it to others in their own networks.\n\nSharing Earth Hero does more than help our environment. It can more deeply connect you with like-minded people and create a support system that encourages progress, celebrates small wins, and builds a shared sense of purpose.",summary:"Climate action is more powerful when shared. Invite friends, family, or colleagues to use Earth Hero and join you in improving lives, building sustainable habits, and creating positive change.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recuMrqbszlkB8c6M",id:636,slug:"636-reduce-your-christmas-tree-impact",title:"Reduce your Christmas tree impact",categories:["Stuff","Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/636-reduce-your-christmas-tree-impact",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð² Conserve Forests"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recDdSM33oIEQNip9"],tips:'⢠If you leave your real tree out for garbage collection, it is likely going to the landfill unless you know your area has a special tree recycling program. Check the details online and see if there is a way to ensure your tree is disposed of in a more sustainable way. For example, many local governments set up programs to turn the trees into mulch.\n\n⢠Find Christmas tree farms near you by searching online for options. <a href="https://realchristmastrees.org/All-About-Trees/Tree-Locator/">This tool</a> shows the location of many but does not cover all countries.\n\n⢠If you want to go far to get a real tree, see if you can find a tree farm with a pop-up sale location near you. This is nice because the farms are traveling with trees in bulk, which is more energy-efficient than multiple people going to their location.\n\n⢠Only need a tree once every few years or so? You could look into renting a tree. You can find local stores that rent artificial trees by conducting a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=christmas+tree+rentals+near+me">quick internet search</a>
1.\n\n⢠Want to stretch your money further to invest in a nicer artificial tree to have 10+ years? Wait until right after Christmas to get one on sale.\n\n⢠Looking for an alternative approach to reduce impact further? While not for everyone, here are a few options:\n\n1) Get a potted tree that can be replanted and used year after year.\n2) Plant a tree outside your window and decorate it each year.\n3) Skip the tree altogether.\n\nThat may not feel like Christmas, so figure out what works best for you!',description:'One of the special Christmas decorations is the tree. Make your Christmas season more environmentally friendly by reducing the impact of your tree, whether you prefer a real tree or an artificial one.\n\nIn short, if you prefer real trees, try to buy ones that are grown locally and dispose of them so that they are either composted, turned into mulch, or burned.\n\nIf you prefer an artificial tree, do not buy new ones regularly. Invest in one you really love and keep it for a long time â at least ten years. Even longer is better.\n\nThere are <a href="https://www.statista.com/statistics/209249/purchase-figures-for-real-and-fake-christmas-trees-in-the-us/">millions of both artificial trees and real trees produced for the Christmas season every year</a>. Artificial trees, usually made of plastic, release a good amount of carbon emissions when made. Plus, there is the pollution created from shipping them around the world. In addition, they are not manufactured with recyclable materials, meaning they eventually end up in landfills to sit for 100+ years.\n\nOn the other hand, buying a real tree from a local store or tree farm reduces the carbon emissions needed to transport the tree. Plus, tree farms are part of an ecosystem, albeit a simpler one. They have other plants between the trees and can harbor birds and other animals. However, it still takes resources to cut down trees every year, and once a tree is dead and decomposes, it returns the carbon it captured to the atmosphere. If your tree ends up in a landfill, its footprint increases significantly because of anaerobic decomposition.\n\nWhen it comes to real versus artificial, once you have made a decision, run with it and make the best of it. There are so many other things we can do to impact the climate emergency positively. Enjoy the holidays and regenerate your energy to focus on higher-impact actions.',summary:"To reduce the environmental impact of your Christmas tree, buy a locally grown tree and dispose of it sustainably. If you prefer artificial trees, invest in one you love and keep it for at least ten years.",additionalResources:"https://www.marthastewart.com/2220657/why-pick-christmas-tree-from-local-farm-garden-center\n\nhttps://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-priorities/protect-water-and-land/land-and-water-stories/real-vs-fake-christmas-tree/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@t_rampersad'>Tessa Rampersad</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm",id:637,slug:"637-use-recyclable-reusable-gift-wrap",title:"Use recyclable, reusable gift wrap",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/637-use-recyclable-reusable-gift-wrap",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð² Conserve Forests","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","recDdSM33oIEQNip9"],tips:'⢠Wrap your presents using wrapping paper made from recycled paper. There are lots of options. Conduct <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=recycled+wrapping+paper">a quick internet search</a> to find the perfect wrapping paper.\n\n⢠When recycling wrapping paper, make sure to remove all tape, bows, ribbons, tags, and glitter. Basically, all the plastic add-on parts. Using paper tape (does not include plastic) or learning <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+wrap+a+gift+without+tape">the art of wrapping without tape</a> are options to simplify the recycling-prep process.\n\n⢠Fabric gift wrap or fabric bags are an alternative to non-recyclable wrapping paper. Check out <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=reusable+gift+wrapping">the options available online</a>. The benefit to fabric wrapping is that you can reuse them for many years to come, so it saves you money as well.\n\n⢠Old maps or newspapers that would otherwise get tossed make great wrapping paper. If that is not your style, no worries. Simply go with another option.',description:'We usually consider wrapping paper to be recyclable, but did you know that is often not the case? Wrapping paper can only be recycled if it is not laminated, has no metallic pieces, and has no tape, ribbons, or bows.\n\nOne way to figure out if your wrapping paper is recyclable is by using the scrunch test. If you can <a href="https://www.treehugger.com/is-wrapping-paper-recyclable-5075370">scrunch it into a ball and it keeps that shape, you can recycle it</a>
1!\n\nUnfortunately, the reality is <a href="https://commercialwaste.trade/the-true-cost-of-christmas/">a massive amount of wrapping paper gets thrown away</a> and it takes a lot of energy, trees, and other resources to create it in the first place, to the detriment of the environment.\n\nHowever, there are environmentally friendly wrapping paper options and alternatives available. These include wrapping paper made out of recycled paper and reusable fabric gift wraps. To increase the festive feeling, you can then decorate using other recyclable materials, paint, and craft supplies.',summary:"Did you know that most wrapping paper is not recyclable? Use the scrunch test to check if your wrapping paper is recyclable. When possible, choose environmentally friendly options such as recycled paper or fabric gift wraps.",additionalResources:"https://www.timeout.com/things-to-do/how-to-have-green-eco-friendly-christmas-tips\n\nhttps://www.buzzfeed.com/valezabakolli/how-to-make-christmas-more-eco-friendly.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@priscilladupreez'>Priscilla Du Preez</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec8yIeh04z4giJbk",id:639,slug:"639-support-indigenous-rights",title:"Support indigenous rights",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/639-support-indigenous-rights",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð² Conserve Forests","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth","Community & Institutions"],related:["rec7oVIrxzgcmBCdT","recMvvx4yKmLitcLX"],tips:'⢠Follow Indigenous-led organizations, media, scholars, artists, and leaders to learn more. To start, choose one Indigenous-led effort to learn from and support.\n\n⢠Stay informed about Indigenous rights issues. <a href="https://www.globalwitness.org/en/">Global Witness</a> is a useful website for this. The <a href="https://www.iwgia.org/en/resources/publications.html">International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs</a> also has a large collection of publications ranging from climate change to the cultural practices of Indigenous groups. \n\n⢠Donate to an Indigenous-led organization or fund working locally, nationally, or globally. For example, <a href="https://www.culturalsurvival.org/grantmaking">Cultural Survivalâs Indigenous-led funds provide grants directly to grassroots organizations, collectives, and traditional governments</a>. You can also support <a href="https://www.chooseearth.co/">Choose Earth</a>, which assists Indigenous leaders in Brazil through donations and sustainably produced merchandise, or donate to <a href="https://www.amazonfrontlines.org/">Amazon Frontlines</a>, which works alongside Indigenous communities to protect their rights, lands, and cultures.\n\n⢠Contact government representatives and companies about decisions affecting Indigenous peoples. Ask them to recognize land and cultural rights, uphold free, prior, and informed consent, and include Indigenous representatives as decision-makers.\n\n⢠Share content and calls to action created by Indigenous people and organizations. Credit the source and preserve the context to ensure the message is clear.\n\n⢠Learn whether companies, financial institutions, or products you support are connected to projects affecting Indigenous lands. Ask whether Indigenous communities were meaningfully consulted and gave their consent.',description:'Global evidence also shows that many Indigenous governance systems, land practices, and knowledge systems make major contributions to sustaining nature. <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-018-0100-6">Research across 87 countries found that Indigenous peoples manage or hold tenure rights over more than a quarter of the world\'s land surface, overlapping with about 40 percent of terrestrial protected areas and ecologically intact landscapes</a>. \n\nIndigenous peoples around the world represent a wide range of cultures, histories, governance systems, and relationships with lands and waters. The <a href="https://www.un.org/development/desa/indigenouspeoples/wp-content/uploads/sites/19/2018/11/UNDRIP_E_web.pdf">United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples</a>
1 affirms rights including self-determination, culture, traditional lands and resources, and participation in decisions.\n\nA global assessment also found that <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/indigenous-peoples-and-nature-they-protect">nature is generally declining less rapidly on Indigenous peoples\' lands than on other lands</a>, although it is still declining and the knowledge used to care for it is under pressure.\n\nThese findings highlight the value of secure land rights, self-determined governance, and knowledge developed through generations of experience. Indigenous peoples experience discrimination, dispossession, exclusion from decisions, and violations of their land and cultural rights. Those defending their territories and the environment may face <a href="https://globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/land-and-environmental-defenders/">threats, criminalization, and violence</a>.\n\nEffective support begins by listening to Indigenous priorities. These may concern land, language, culture, education, health, economic development, the environment, or other community goals.',summary:"Stand with Indigenous peoples as they defend their rights, cultures, lands, and ways of life. Learn from Indigenous-led organizations, support their work, and advocate for their leadership in decisions that affect them.",additionalResources:'⢠<a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-024-02913-5">Nature: How to Support Indigenous Peoples on Biodiversity: Be Rigorous with Data</a>',amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@fin777">Deb Dowd</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recHXOuokHO1jPFv5",id:640,slug:"640-sustainable-holiday-decorations",title:"Sustainable holiday decorations",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/640-sustainable-holiday-decorations",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Household"],related:["recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","recdWJoaYjOUPcvUR","reckJRljfkFNF13ll"],tips:'There are many better options available to make your holiday decorations eco-friendly. Here are a few ideas to get you started. Discover new ways to approach it, get creative, and have fun in the holiday spirit.\n\n⢠Rather than purchasing new ornaments, reuse ones you have bought or inherited in previous years. They can bring back good memories that go beyond their look.\n\n⢠Visit your local second-hand store for unique ornaments that likely cannot be found anywhere else and may have a story associated with them. Also, check out online used marketplaces, which have an incredible array of options to select from.\n\n⢠Make edible ornaments. The options are almost endless from cookie gift tags, cinnamon ornaments, peppermint popcorn garland, and more. <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+edible+holiday+ornaments">Go online</a> to find more ideas on how to make your own edible ornaments.\n\n⢠If you are feeling crafty, why not make some decorations using natural materials, such as twigs, fruits and berries, rocks, pine cones, etc? Conduct <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=make+your+own+holiday+ornaments">a quick internet search</a> to discover DIY decoration ideas.',description:"Every year, it is tempting to purchase brand-new holiday decorations. Advertising and promotions at stores that would like to part you from your money feed that feeling. However, there is a greener way to decorate for the holidays.\n\nThis year, consider buying fewer new holiday decorations and opt for homemade or sustainable ones. It is a simple way to reduce the pollution, plastic, and waste created from new stuff being made.\n\nDoes this mean never buying new decorations? No, it simply means being more intentional about it and doing so when it truly brings extra joy.",summary:"Consider buying fewer new holiday decorations and opting to reuse ones you have bought or inherited in previous years, or buy used ones, to reduce pollution and waste.",additionalResources:"https://www.telesurenglish.net/news/Christmas-Carbon-Footprint-and-Its-Irreversible-Consequences-20191224-0020.html\n\nhttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2006/dec/14/christmas2006.greenchristmas\n\nhttps://www.malathebrand.com/blogs/news/how-to-have-an-eco-friendly-and-affordable-halloween-in-2021. ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-gray-yarn-on-white-paper-6072439/'>Photo by cottonbro</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDdSM33oIEQNip9",id:641,slug:"641-give-experience-based-gifts",title:"Give experience-based gifts",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/641-give-experience-based-gifts",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð² Conserve Forests","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5"],tips:'⢠Cannot decide on an experience to gift? There are many ideas online to check out. Here are a few good lists to get you thinking:\n\n<a href="https://www.goingzerowaste.com/blog/50-of-the-best-experience-gifts/">50 of the best experience gifts</a>\n\n<a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/holiday-gifts-experiences_n_5c004c79e4b0864f4f6b988c">21 Gift Ideas For People Who Value Experiences More Than Things</a>\n\n⢠Figure out what your friend or loved one enjoys and tailor the gift to their preferences and interests.\n\n⢠Some experience-based gifts can be expensive, but there are many low-budget options that can be just as special and meaningful, like making a fun music mix or creating <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/images?q=friend+coupon+book">personalized coupons</a>.',description:'It would not be the holiday season without gifts! As fun as it is to give and receive gifts, the physical ones generate excess pollution and waste due to the resources needed to create, ship, and package them. The waste from <a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2017/12/28/canadians-will-throw-out-540000-tonnes-of-wrapping-paper-and-gift-bags-this-christmas-season.html">just wrapping and gift bags alone is astounding</a>.\n\nGiving experience-based gifts is a nice way to reduce the drain on our planet. Rather than giving a physical gift that might not even get used, give a fun experience and memory. That could range from going skating, seeing a movie, enjoying a concert, or giving gift cards to local businesses. The options are endless!\n\nDoes this mean never giving stuff as a gift? No, if a gift makes a life better, then go for it. Just consider giving experience-based gifts as an alternative to keep unnecessary pollution down.',summary:"When giving gifts, give experiences, not stuff. Physical gifts generate excess pollution and waste due to the resources needed to create, ship, and package them. On the other hand, experiences tend to be remembered and enjoyed for longer.",additionalResources:"https://www.timeout.com/things-to-do/how-to-have-green-eco-friendly-christmas-tips\n\nhttps://zerowastecanada.ca/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/Zero-Waste-Christmas.pdf",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@joannakosinska'>Joanna Kosinska</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5",id:642,slug:"642-cook-a-veggie-filled-holiday-meal",title:"Cook a veggie-filled holiday meal",categories:["Food","Family & Community"],earthPoints:3,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/642-cook-a-veggie-filled-holiday-meal",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recgcQJp8d0FFX39b"],tips:'Here are some dishes to consider trying, but of course, there are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=vegetarian+holiday+dishes">endless delicious options to consider online</a>.\n\n⢠Hasselback butternut squash or roasted butternut squash\n⢠Roasted cauliflower steaks\n⢠Cauliflower wings with dipping sauces\n⢠Mushroom and spinach bread pudding\n⢠Quinoa-stuffed acorn squash with cranberries\n⢠Veggie tarts\n⢠Garden keepers pie (veg shepherds pie)\n⢠Mashed parsnips\n⢠Caramelized carrots\n\nNot ready to give up your holiday meats completely? Here are some ideas on how to reduce the impact.\n\n⢠Purchase meat from local farmers. <a href="https://www.wired.co.uk/article/environmentally-friendly-christmas-climate-change">This can cut emissions generated by meat by five percent</a>.\n\n⢠Rather than purchasing a whole animal portion, buy a smaller cut of meat, a crown, or a roast. Buying smaller quantities of food will lead to less waste and also cut down on your cooking time.\n\n⢠Go with less resource-intensive meats like turkey and chicken rather than cows or pigs.',description:'It is quite nice to have a warm holiday meal with family and friends. Consider trying fun new dishes to bring to the table that are better for you and the planet. It is a nice way to create new tasty traditions.\n\nWe tend to <a href="https://commercialw
1aste.trade/the-true-cost-of-christmas/">create a lot of extra food waste over the holidays</a> and a lot of that impact comes from the <a href="https://www.wired.co.uk/article/environmentally-friendly-christmas-climate-change">amount of meat we consume</a>. In short, reducing the amount of animals we consume <a href="https://www.drawdown.org/solutions/plant-rich-diets/technical-summary">makes our diet more sustainable, reduces agricultural land-use emissions</a>, and <a href="https://www.healthline.com/health-news/how-switching-to-a-plant-based-diet-can-add-years-to-your-life-no-matter-what-age-you-are">help us live longer</a>.\n\nImprove your holiday meals this year by preparing less meat and by making more plant-based dishes to bring new life to the festivities.',summary:"Holiday meals often generate excessive food waste and meat consumption, impacting both our health and the planet. Opt for more plant-based dishes to make festivities more sustainable and healthier. Have fun trying new dishes out!",additionalResources:"https://www.saveur.com/vegetarian-holiday-recipes/\n\nhttps://www.theveggietable.com/vegetarian-holidays/christmas/vegetarian-christmas/\n\nhttps://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/christmas-dinners-that-will-make-jaws-drop/\n\nhttps://www.theveggietable.com/category/vegetarian-holidays/hanukkah/\n\nhttps://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-food/10-vegan-hanukkah-recipes-2018/\n\nhttps://www.theveggietable.com/category/vegetarian-holidays/kwanzaa-recipes/",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/top-view-of-table-set-up-for-christmas-dinner-5779183/'>Photo by Nicole Michalou </a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recgcQJp8d0FFX39b",id:643,slug:"643-use-led-lights-for-the-holidays",title:"Use LED lights for the holidays",categories:["Home & Work","Energy"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/643-use-led-lights-for-the-holidays",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ System Change","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm"],tips:'⢠Still have other types of lights? When they burn out, replace them with LEDs! No reason to create new stuff just yet if you are still getting good use out of what you currently have.\n\n⢠Does the price of LEDs seem high compared to other options? Do not be fooled. Once the running costs and amount of time LEDs last are considered (usually measured in decades), it is not even close. It is an amazing modern technology.\n\n⢠Check out <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/images?q=amazing+led+holiday+lights">the options online</a> to see what options are available to get ideas. LEDs open up a whole new world of possibilities.',description:'Make this holiday season light up with LED lights! Hanging up festive lights is a great way to get into the holiday spirit.\n\nNot only do they save you money, save energy and last longer, but LEDs <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/articles/study-environmental-benefits-leds-greater-cfls">contribute less to global warming, ecosystem damage, ecotoxicity, and landfill waste compared to incandescent and CFLs (compact fluorescent lights)</a>. Taking into account the manufacturing, transportation, lifetime usage, and disposal of LEDs, <a href="https://www.energystar.gov/products/lighting_fans/light_bulbs/learn_about_led_bulbs">they are the best option when it comes to cost and environmental impact</a>. Plus, when it comes to options, there is a broader range to choose from than other types of lights.',summary:"Switch to LED lights this holiday season to save money and energy, and reduce environmental impact. Check out the wide range of options available online and replace old lights with LEDs as they burn out.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@lvnatikk'>Lily Banse</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMDlNAxpl7VIN0w",id:649,slug:"649-have-a-green-nye-celebration",title:"Have a green NYE celebration",categories:["Family & Community","Stuff","Food","Energy"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/649-have-a-green-nye-celebration",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Household"],related:["reccCQdrcibgHUm3u","rec5iMnURAWRZm01o","re
1cDC5bUmbwqeR24a","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recOUCdYR6E1h0zi0","reczRPxh5ZiYJ8aLy","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recgcQJp8d0FFX39b"],tips:'Going out â Be mindful of making a mess and avoid one-time usage items that end up in a landfill. The big celebrations around the world cause <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/trash-times-square-new-years-eve_n_5a49fecfe4b0b0e5a7a7b3f0">a massive amount of waste and clean-up</a> because of single-use stuff.\n\nDecorations â Reuse and repurpose some of your holiday decorations, make homemade ones, or purchase plastic-free decorations. Avoid glitter. Glitter = microplastic.\n\nLights â Go with LED to get something that lasts longer and uses less energy. For example, <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=led+tea+lights">use LED tea lights</a> to spruce up your home. With any lights, keep re-usability in mind. For example, something you plug in, charge, or can use rechargeable batteries with.\n\nSwag â Rather than purchasing noise-makers, hats, or other accessories that you only use once, go with something that is higher quality that you can use for years to come.\n\nInvitations â Go digital by opting for digital invites rather than paper ones.\n\nFood â Serve more plant-based options and fewer meat ones. Consider a theme for the evening, such as vegetarian, organic, or local craft drinks. Use it as an excuse to try something new and fun. Buy locally sourced where possible, which makes for a more entertaining story. People are often interested in hearing about local options.\n\nUtensils â If you have enough, use your own cups, silverware, plates, and bowls. It makes for a classier party and saves money. If not, consider asking some people to bring their own. It is amazing how fun people find that. If you want to go disposable, use recyclable or compostable options.\n\nFireworks â Looking for lower chemical and safer options for the family? Check out <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=firework+alternatives">firework alternatives online</a>.',description:"Ring in the New Year the planet-friendly way! Whether celebrating the New Year with family, friends, or on your own, make your party both festive and eco-friendly.\n\nThere are environmentally friendly options for almost every aspect of the party. Check out the Tips section for ideas to improve your ringing in the New Year.\n\nThe Earth Hero Team wishes you a happy, prosperous, and green New Year! Make next year better than the last!",summary:"Ring in the New Year the planet-friendly way! Whether celebrating the New Year with family, friends, or on your own, make your celebration both festive and eco-friendly.",additionalResources:"https://inhabitat.com/how-to-have-a-sustainable-nye-party/ \n\nhttps://www.scmp.com/better-life/environment/article/3043920/6-ways-make-your-new-years-eve-party-more-eco-friendly\n\nhttps://www.sciencefocus.com/planet-earth/are-fireworks-bad-for-the-environment/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@rovenimages_com'>Roven Images</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEhCmXDlejF09us",id:650,slug:"650-make-eco-friendly-resolutions",title:"Make eco-friendly resolutions",categories:["Resilience","Family & Community","Food","Home & Work","Stuff","Travel & Transport","Energy","Outside","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/650-make-eco-friendly-resolutions",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð§ Preserve Water","ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð² Conserve Forests","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð¡ Reduce Light Pollution","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð Protect Wildlife","ð Protect the Oceans","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth","Household"],related:["rec9HA3w25sV7eZ5I","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","re
1cgcQJp8d0FFX39b","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH","recMUtQANEfCZUoGJ","recuMrqbszlkB8c6M","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7","recMDlNAxpl7VIN0w"],tips:'⢠Setting resolutions is a great idea; however, many people have trouble sticking to them. <a href="https://discoverhappyhabits.com/new-years-resolution-statistics/#2021-statistics">Only a third of people tend to keep all of their resolutions</a>.\n\n⢠Make your resolutions realistic and attainable. Remember to think about why you set the resolution. Also, forgive yourself if you are not successful right away. That is completely normal. Progress, not perfection.\n\n⢠Consider making your resolutions SMART â Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely/Time-bound. See more <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SMART_criteria">at this website</a>.\n\n⢠For added support, invite friends and family to participate with you when it makes sense to do so.\n\nHere are a few ideas to start you thinking:\n\nVoice\n\n⢠Talk about climate to help open up minds to how burning oil, coal, and gas is overheating our planet.\n⢠Engage more with local climate activism groups.\n⢠Keep climate and environmental issues top of mind with your local leaders by writing or calling them.\n\nFood\n\n⢠Eat food that is in season.\n⢠Avoid food waste by buying smarter, using your leftovers, and eating foods before they go bad.\n⢠Consider cutting back on your animal food intake.\n\nBeauty products\n\n⢠Use eco-friendly and sustainable beauty products.\n⢠Go for products that have little to no plastic packaging.\n⢠Consider cutting down on what you use altogether.\n\nClothing\n\n⢠Fix your clothes and keep them in good condition so you can use them longer.\n⢠Rent clothing you plan on using infrequently for special occasions.\n⢠Donate or sell clothes you do not use anymore.\n\nHome\n\n⢠Do you have a home system that burns oil or gas? This might be the year to transition to an electric version.\n⢠Look for vintage or second-hand furniture before buying new items.\n⢠Switch to reusable home and kitchen supplies.\n\nOther\n\n⢠Purchase less new stuff.\n⢠Set an emissions goal in the EarthHero app to help motivate yourself.\n⢠Try out Earth Hero actions that you saved for later.\n⢠<a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=environmentally+friendly+new+years+resolutions">Explore online</a> for other resolution ideas.',description:"As the new year starts, it is a good time to reflect and consider making some resolutions. Why not add eco-friendly goals to the list?\n\nIt is a nice excuse to improve your life, improve your well-being, save money and time, connect with others, and help create a better world.\n\nNot sure what environmentally-friendly resolutions you should engage in next year? Check out the tips section for some inspiration or naturally, you can browse through the Earth Hero app!",summary:"The new year prompts reflection and resolutions, offering a chance to enhance life while aiding the planet. To make eco-friendly goals stick, set realistic resolutions, involve friends, and prioritize progress over perfection.",additionalResources:"https://theseepcompany.com/blogs/the-seep-blog/how-to-make-your-household-in-2022-better-for-you-and-the-planet\n\nhttps://theecowriter.com/eco-friendly-new-years-resolution/\n\nhttps://www.tomatoink.com/blog/7-tricks-keep-eco-friendly-new-years-resolutions-going/\n\nhttps://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/katharine-hayhoe-reveals-surprising-ways-talk-about-climate-change\n\nhttps://www.greenchoices.org/green-living/clothes/environmental-impacts",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@cristian1'>Cristian Escobar</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recUAwMbrIoUOOBwr",id:652,slug:"652-prepare-for-a-power-outage",title:"Prepare for a power outage",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/652-prepare-for-a-power-outage",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recX84graEAs04qVF","re
1cSyql2ZISp498Tl","rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V"],tips:'⢠Consider having enough backup battery power to recharge your mobile phone at least a couple of times and a flashlight. Home lights, internet, and larger appliances will require backup solutions with more capacity. To help with that, you might consider looking into a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=Home+Battery+Storage+Systems">home battery storage system</a>.\n\n⢠If you own an e-bike or other larger battery-powered device, its battery might have a USB outlet for charging smaller devices. You will find it packs a lot of power!\n\n⢠Candles and oil lamps are fire hazards. Keep them handy, but be smart about their usage and do not leave them unattended when lit.\n\n⢠Keep in mind that an extended outage may close retail businesses, grocery stores, banks, and other services. Think about if that may be a problem and make your household more resilient for those circumstances.\n\n⢠If you have elderly neighbors, ask if they need help preparing for an emergency, especially if they rely on electricity to use medical equipment in their homes.\n\nDuring the outage itself:\n\n⢠Keep your refrigerator closed to preserve its cooling power for as long as possible.\n\n⢠Unplug unnecessary appliances and sensitive electronics to prevent overloaded circuits when power is restored.\n\n⢠Realize that you may want to fill your bathtub with water if widespread power outages are predicted and there is a risk it will impact your water supply. A clean bathtub is an important piece of insurance!\n\n⢠Check on your neighbors. Bad times build good connections!\n\n⢠If the outage is due to cold, and your heat goes out with it, leave your sink dripping to keep the water moving to avoid them freezing and bursting.\n\n⢠If extreme heat or cold becomes too much to handle at your home, consider going to a local shelter, which should have a backup energy source. Figure out where these shelters likely would be ahead of time in case you cannot look them up online.',description:"Even a rare power outage can be problematic if it catches you with run-down electronics. Even worse is if you rely on medical equipment that requires electricity. An extended outage can ruin your refrigerated food, leave you without cooling/heating or even lead to interruption in your water supply. Be prepared for these events, which are likely to occur more often with more frequent extreme climate events.",summary:"Be prepared for power outages by having backup battery power for essentials like phones and flashlights. Consider investing in a home battery storage system for larger appliances and devices to stay powered during extended outages.",additionalResources:"https://crisisequipped.com/how-to-prepare-for-a-power-outage/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@theoeilertsen'>Theo Eilertsen Photography</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recF9d5GAZxq7iZmC",id:653,slug:"653-learn-how-to-shut-off-the-gas",title:"Learn how to shut off the gas",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/653-learn-how-to-shut-off-the-gas",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recDOwq3Kl38EIVRY","recscBhbL2AtDk2pE","recwunY3FjFoDttdh"],tips:'⢠If you know someone who is savvy about this type of thing, ask them to help you out. They can probably help you figure it out relatively quickly.\n\n⢠There are simple online videos that explain how to turn off your fuel line as well. Give it a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=how+to+turn+off+gas+to+house">quick search</a>!\n\n⢠If you live in a rental unit, consider checking with your landlord for instructions.\n\n⢠Most lines can be shut off using a standard wrench. Make sure you have a tool that will work in an easy-to-find location.\n\n⢠Your shut-off may be hidden behind a panel or hard to find for other reasons, but it should be accessible without having to move items or use a key. In stressful circumstances, you want to be able to do this as quickly as possible.\n\n⢠If the opportunity comes, electrify your home systems so you no longer need to worry about this explosive and polluting energy source.',description:"Several different disasters, such as earthquakes, fires, and floods, might make it necessary for you to shut off the supply of gas to your house to avoid an explosive situation. However, many of us do not even know where our gas meter is!\n\nBe prepared by learning how to do this simple task and ensure you have the right tool at hand if the need arises.",summary:"Do not wait for a disaster to find your gas shut off. Learn how to shut off your gas and keep the tool to do so handy. Ask for help or watch online tutorials to prepare.",additionalResources:"https://www.h2ouse.org/turning-gas-back-on-after-a-disconnect/\n\nhttps://www.doityourself.com/stry/how-to-shut-off-a-gas-line",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@rwlinder'>Robert Linder</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recoFE6S54atmd48z",id:657,slug:"657-get-basic-first-aid-training",title:"Get basic first aid training",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/657-get-basic-first-aid-training",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ðªð½ Improve Health "],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recrmeh62zveoUKpE","rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V","recg1hgw6VG5OgHFS"],tips:'⢠There are many different levels of training available, including online courses that can be completed at your convenience. Check out <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=find+a+first+aid+class">the options online</a> to get started.\n\n⢠Training is not a one-time thing. Techniques evolve over time, and without practice or retraining, you will forget some of what you have been taught. Plan to retrain periodically.\n\n⢠Encourage others in your family or household to get training as well, so they can help too! Even kids can learn basic first aid techniques and might find it not just useful but also interesting.',description:"Knowing even a little first aid can be critical in the event of a severe accident or climate event. It is also useful for the cuts and burns of day-to-day life. And in the event of a major disaster, you can better assist medical professionals if you already know the basics.",summary:"Learn first aid through online courses at your own pace to be prepared for emergencie
1s. Remember to retrain periodically to keep your skills sharp and encourage others to get trained too.",additionalResources:"https://www.redcross.org/take-a-class/first-aid/performing-first-aid/first-aid-steps",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@splitti'>Martin Splitt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recx90kv3RXq6UzxR",id:659,slug:"659-donate-to-an-environmental-cause",title:"Donate to an environmental cause",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/659-donate-to-an-environmental-cause",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð Protect Wildlife","ð Protect the Oceans","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recq2fEuCkkjeuJ5P","recmSnnBrMlFslV0N","rec23sj2JziJUSPUa","recPS1CKy6w9B4UG0"],tips:'⢠Research prospective charities to ensure your money has the biggest impact it possibly can have and that the majority of your donation goes to the cause you selected.\n\n⢠If you are unsure who to give to, check out online recommendations, such as <a href="https://www.givinggreen.earth/top-climate-change-nonprofit-donations-recommendations">this one</a>. The best lists evaluate charities based on the positive real-world impact they have relative to donations.\n\n⢠If your selected charity is registered in your country, your donation may be tax-deductible, which would save you some money. That could give you more to donate later!\n\n⢠Set up an automatic ongoing contribution so the donation becomes part of your monthly budget and something you do not need to spend time thinking about again. This also helps organizations plan better by having a steady revenue stream.\n\n⢠Check to see if your employer has a matching donation program that will supplement your contribution.\n\n⢠Consider <a href="https://www.earthhero.org/donate">donating to Earth Hero</a> to fund the technology and tools we use to create, improve, distribute, and spread the message about better ways of living.',description:"There are a lot of wonderful nonprofit organizations doing great work every day fighting for environmental causes. This includes work to improve our climate, better environmental policies, education, directly cleaning our air through tree planting, preserving natural resources, and protecting wildlife.\n\nUnfortunately, for-profit organizations and governments often do not have the incentive to care about our prosperity-giving environment. Nonprofit organizations play a crucial balancing role against this.\n\nThese great organizations need your support. They have the benefit of being laser-focused on creating a better world but are limited by the resources to bring that to life. If you have little to spare, do some research to find causes that mean something to you and donate.",summary:"Nonprofit organizations are crucial for protecting our environment. Research and donate to causes that mean something to you and have a scalable impact. Consider setting up an ongoing contribution to help them achieve even more.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@cdubo">Christian Dubovan</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/Y_x747Yshlw">Unsplash</a>.'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJLXYVZnqX2UOqs",id:664,slug:"664-be-ready-to-filter-air",title:"Be ready to filter air",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/664-be-ready-to-filter-air",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recSdN0wktQ7MdDdZ","recJRkmoJucB7BPpR","re
1cwunY3FjFoDttdh"],tips:'⢠Use an app or website to monitor air quality to know when you need to filter your air and avoid being outside. This is commonly integrated into many weather apps.\n\n⢠The basic concept of air filtering is straightforward. Air is forced through a filter that catches particles from the air, so they do not end up in your lungs. There are a few different options when it comes to accomplishing this.\n\n⢠Do you have a central home heating or cooling system that uses filters already? If you use high-quality filters, it can help clean the air while running. Filters are usually rated on their effectiveness. Look for MERV13 (or a higher number) or ePM1 (or a lower number) to clean fine particulates from the air.\n\n⢠These higher-quality filters tend to be more expensive, but you can actually save money and waste by using a reusable one. Reusable filters last much longer, are easy to clean, and require less attention than disposable ones.\n\n⢠If the air is especially bad outside, you can usually run the fan only for your system (no heating or cooling) to get air running through the filters. However, you should figure out how to set the system to recirculate mode and/or close the outdoor intake damper. You naturally do not want to bring in more dirty air.\n\n⢠You can also look into purchasing a portable air filter with reusable filters to clean up the air in one room. Do a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+portable+air+filter+with+reusable+filters">quick search online</a> to explore options.\n\n⢠Part of keeping your indoor air quality good is keeping the bad air out. Find out how well your home is sealed from the outside air and find solutions for gaps that are letting air in that you would rather keep out. This helps with your heating and cooling costs, too!\n\n⢠If you are in a high-risk area, consider getting a particle respirator mask or an N95 respirator. This device fits tightly to your face and filters out 95% of particles. This can be helpful if you need to be outside for an extended time while air quality is bad.\n\n⢠Want to create your own portable air filter? Consider creating something <a href="https://www.wgbh.org/news/local-news/2021/08/17/diy-air-filters-for-classrooms-experts-are-enthusiastic-and-a-citizen-scientist-makes-it-easy">like this design</a>.\n\n⢠Are you still cooking with gas, propane, or other fossil fuels? Gas ovens and cooktops also create more indoor air pollution in the form of PM2.5 (one of the deadliest air pollutants), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and formaldehyde. Gas stoves are exposing <a href="https://www.vox.com/energy-and-environment/2020/5/7/21247602/gas-stove-cooking-indoor-air-pollution-health-risks">tens of millions of people to levels of air pollution in their homes that would be illegal outdoors</a>. Switch to electric cooking for an immediate improvement in your inside air!\n\n⢠Naturally, if the air quality in your area is getting especially bad, then your air filtering system may not be able to keep up, and you will need to evacuate.',description:'Wildfires are becoming larger and more frequent, and indoor air quality is increasingly becoming an issue in many parts of the world, even without them. Hotter temperatures from burning oil, gas, and coal, <a href="https://time.com/6991204/climate-change-affects-asthma-sufferers">increase ground-level ozone and extend the allergy season</a>, to the detriment of our lungs and health.\n\nAll good reasons why you might need to purify the air in your home, shop, classroom, or office. Consider having air filter options ready to go if the need arises.',summary:"Wildfires are becoming larger and more frequent, and indoor air quality is increasingly becoming an issue in many parts of the world. Consider having air filter options ready to go if the need arises.",additionalResources:"https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/wildfires-and-indoor-air-quality-iaq\n\nhttps://indoorchem.org/projects/homechem/ \n\nhttps://homediagnosis.tv/homechem \n\nhttps://www.instructables.com/circuits/howto/home+air+filter/\n\nhttps://encycla.com/Corsi-Rosenthal_Cube\n\nhttps://www.afprofilters.com/expertises/iso-16890-norm-replacing-en779/\n\nhttps://indoor.lbl.gov/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-vector/layered-materials-realistic-composition-with-view-layers-row-with-solid-frames_16607760.htm">Image by macrovector</a> on Freepik'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reca0oQPWO1WWrTQo",id:666,slug:"666-review-your-home-insurance",title:"Review your home insurance",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/666-review-your-home-insurance",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec8ncTnkhYvWjAMI","reci85wSWviPcDznH","re
1coxSrWYQ5LxkQbz"],tips:'⢠Make it a habit to check your policy at least annually, perhaps around the time you prepare your taxes, when you are already working with your financial papers.\n\n⢠Flood insurance is often sold separately from regular home insurance and can depend on government definitions of flood zones. If you think you are covered already, it might be worth double-checking to confirm that.\n\n⢠Use online resources such as <a href="https://www.thisoldhouse.com/insurance/21015205/how-to-review-and-update-your-homeowner-s-insurance"> this one </a> to give you ideas of what and how to check your plan.',description:"Whether a renter or an owner, if you are responsible for insuring your home and its contents, make sure you have the right coverage and possibly save some money by periodically reviewing your policy. Most importantly, in the event of a disaster, you are less likely to be surprised by a shortfall in your coverage if you stay up to date in this way.\n\nClimate change is forcing insurers to evolve their policies continually. If you live somewhere with increased flood or fire threat, it is possible that your coverage has changed or you are not covered for that type of climate event at all. Or perhaps your property is now in a flood or fire zone when previously it was not.\n\nBe proactive and ensure you are covered, or at least make an intelligent decision about how much coverage you want to avoid a nasty surprise later.",summary:"Make sure your home insurance coverage is up to date to avoid surprises in case of a disaster. Review your policy annually and consider additional coverage for climate-related risks like flooding and fires.",additionalResources:"https://www.fema.gov/data-visualization/historical-flood-risk-and-costs\n\nhttps://www.thisoldhouse.com/insurance/21015205/how-to-review-and-update-your-homeowner-s-insurance\n\nhttps://www.aarp.org/home-family/your-home/info-2020/homeowners-insurance.html",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/insurance-policy-agreement-terms-document-concept_17057004.htm">Image by rawpixel.com</a> on Freepik'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec82Y1Xkljow31Rs",id:668,slug:"668-store-critical-documents-safely",title:"Store critical documents safely",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/668-store-critical-documents-safely",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family"],related:["reca0oQPWO1WWrTQo","reci85wSWviPcDznH","recE4R2XqcV09RKsM"],tips:'⢠Start by making a list of the critical documents. This is a good <a href="https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-03/fema_safeguard-critical-documents-and-valuables.pdf">checklist to start with</a>.\n\n⢠Finding cheap or free secure online storage is easy, and scans of your key documents do not take up much room in the cloud. Just make sure to use a strong password and two-factor authentication!\n\n⢠Consider getting a fireproof and waterproof safe. However, keep in mind that in a long-lasting, powerful flood or a super hot fire, they may not offer complete protection. This is where backing up can ensure you are covered. You can <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=best+fireproof+and+waterproof+safes">check out options online</a>.\n\n⢠Many banks offer storage in the form of a safe deposit box. If you get one, consider including a digital storage device with copies of your photos and other digital valuables.',description:"Documentation will not help you escape a disaster, but it will certainly help you recover after one. Items such as passports, birth records, insurance policies, and rental agreements are easy to store securely online, in a fireproof/waterproof safe, or at a different location. Knowing where your information is and having backed-up copies gives you one less thing to worry about in the event of disaster or evacuation.",summary:"Having critical documents readily available is crucial for post-disaster recovery. Create a list of documents, store them digitally or in a safe, and ensure backups and strong security measures for peace of mind.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@samsungmemory'>Samsung Memory</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recbHaJE18Nw560PF",id:674,slug:"674-use-eco-friendly-bank-cards",title:"Use eco-friendly bank cards",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/674-use-eco-friendly-bank-cards",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Protect the Oceans","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recW9KaitubY5oJNq","recQegFLMFzbJyZ21","recF5diFhA8uH8LcH"],tips:'⢠If your bank or credit card company does not already offer alternatives to a plastic credit card, ask for one. If a more sustainable card is not available, perhaps it is time to switch.\n\nHere are some options to look out for: \n\no Recycled plastic cards. These card contain mostly <a href="https://dis-blog.thalesgroup.com/financial-services/202
10/07/21/turning-ocean-plastic-waste-into-eco-friendly-bank-cards/">recycled plastic</a>. One card might have the equivalent material of a reclaimed plastic bottle, which means six billion credit cards could eliminate up to six billion bottles from just hanging around our world.\n\no Biodegradable plastic cards. Some issuers use biodegradable materials like PLA (polylactic acid), which is derived from renewable sources such as cornstarch or sugarcane. These cards can typically decompose within a few years.\n\no Wooden or bamboo cards. A few niche issuers offer cards made of sustainable wood or bamboo. Since these cards are sourced from trees or recycled wood. They are biodegradable, non-toxic, and recyclable. Apart from being sustainable, they often come in visually appealing patterns.\n\no Contactless payment. Skip the physical card! Many merchants allow you to tap with your phone to pay at checkout. Using a card is handy, but not as convenient as tapping with your phone once you get the hang of it. It is basically the same as paying with a card, with no additional cost to you. Not sure how it works? <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+use+your+phone+to+pay">Learn more online</a>.',description:'Discarded plastics harm habitats, wildlife, and oceans, and contaminate the food chain. Several trillion pieces of plastic are in the oceans, which can <a href="https://oceanliteracy.unesco.org/plastic-pollution-ocean/">take centuries</a> to break down. \n\nOne contributor to the global plastic problem is payment cards that you use to swipe for everyday purchases. Each year banks produce around <a href="https://www.mastercard.com/news/press/press-releases/2020/july/mastercard-leads-the-payments-industry-forward-to-a-more-sustainable-future/">6 billion payment cards</a>, mostly made of plastic.\n\nThe card plastic is largely chlorine and petroleum, which makes the card durable, water-resistant, and protective against wear and tear. However, when the card reaches its expiration date, many end up in our environment because plastic is not easily recycled. It can then linger for over a hundred years.\n\nYou can be part of the solution by using better alternative cards made from recyclable, biodegradable, or reclaimed ocean plastics. You can even skip physical cards by using contactless payment methods with your phone. In the grand scheme of things, it is a minor impact, but every little bit helps.',summary:"Plastic payment cards add to global plastic pollution due to their non-recyclable nature. Opt for eco-friendly alternatives like recycled plastic or biodegradable cards. Or switch to contactless payments to eliminate the card completely!",additionalResources:"https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/markets/digital-identity-and-security/banking-payment/cards/alternative-to-pvc",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@akinggraphic'>Adeniji Abdullahi</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recHs0QJIwdbcUTC4",id:676,slug:"676-advocate-for-womens-rights",title:"Advocate for women's rights",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:60,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/676-advocate-for-womens-rights",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðªð½ Improve Health "],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["rec7oVIrxzgcmBCdT","rec8yIeh04z4giJbk","recwkLfc8tzCxbJkL"],tips:'Here are three key ways to advocate for women\'s rights in relation to the climate emergency:\n\n⢠Support the education of girls and women. Educating girls and women provides them with more opportunities for upward mobility and more power over their lives. Education also increases women\'s resilience to the impacts of climate change. You can support the education of girls and women by donating to charities such as <a href="https://camfed.org/"> CAMFED </a> and by talking to others about why this issue is so important.\n\n⢠Fight for improved access to family planning. Women should have the freedom and knowledge to decide how they want to live their lives. Some charities you could donate to or volunteer with are <a href="https://www.pathfinder.org/focus-areas/contraception-family-planning/">Pathfinder</a>, <a href="https://www.chaseafrica.org.uk/">Chase Africa</a>, and <a href="https://plan-international.org/girls-get-equal/">Plan International</a>.\n\n⢠Advocate that women are included in positions of local and national leadership. The meaningful participation of women in leadership ensures their needs are reflected in the policy-making process. Sadly, that is often still not the case around the world.\n\nIt has also been shown that countries with a higher proportion of women in government are <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/11/why-female-leadership-is-crucial-to-tackle-climate-change/">more likely to ratify international environmental treaties, to create protected areas, and to have better climate change policies</a>.',description:'What do women\'s rights have to do with climate change and sustainability? Naturally, as part of a free and fair society, it should be an essential right that everyone has access to high-quality education and voluntary family planning. They produce a wide range of immediate advantages for things like prosperity, health, well-being, and equal
1ity. Plus, it is the right thing to do. A <a href="https://www.drawdown.org/solutions/family-planning-and-education">bonus knock-on effect is reduced pollution</a> because of slower population growth.\n\nWe share this planet with 8 billion or so other people. In the last 100 years, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/World_population">the population has quintupled</a>, yet the planet and its resources are the same. Yes, we can use our limited resources in smarter, more efficient ways to cope with that, but having fewer people consuming stuff makes it easier to manage.\n\nThe negative impacts of climate change will <a href="https://www.unwomen.org/en/news-stories/explainer/2022/02/explainer-how-gender-inequality-and-climate-change-are-interconnected">also fall harder on women</a> because of gender imbalances in many parts of the world. Advocating for women\'s rights is crucial in fighting for climate justice. Highlighting gender inequalities and improving access to education, healthcare, and family planning has a positive impact on reducing emissions and environmental degradation.',summary:"Population growth is straining our planet's resources. To help, support women's rights by advocating for education, family planning, and women in leadership roles. Plus it is the right and fair thing to do.",additionalResources:"https://earth.org/ecofeminism/?gclid=Cj0KCQiAubmPBhCyARIsAJWNpiMZ-6-Q15w3J3v21kiYaguv_MNIKtKW8muZzrc88U4hB-PLsSPMV3caAkpmEALw_wcB ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@jmuniz'>Joel Muniz</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recTIzgubhobP4rXV",id:678,slug:"678-make-the-earth-your-valentine",title:"Make the Earth your Valentine",categories:["Food","Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/678-make-the-earth-your-valentine",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["rec8ncTnkhYvWjAMI","recMUtQANEfCZUoGJ","recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH","rec9HA3w25sV7eZ5I","reccCQdrcibgHUm3u","recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","reccG4IVWSpbswtiI","recxkxaIsOV289KUe"],tips:'Here are some ideas to help you enjoy the holiday and spread some love.\n\n⢠Dine at restaurants and eateries that value sustainability. Do a <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=sustainable+restaurants+near+me">search to find sustainable restaurants near you</a>. You might find a new favorite!\n\n⢠A nice home-cooked meal is a great way to celebrate as well. Try a fun new plant-based dish, make a nice table setting, or light some candles for a little extra touch.\n\n⢠Support cocoa farmers by purchasing fair trade chocolate instead of cheap low-quality commercial brands that are <a href="https://international.nwf.org/cocoa-and-deforestation/">causing forests to be cut down</a>. You will buy great chocolate and support safe working conditions for cocoa farmers.\n\n⢠Do you enjoy baking or think you might? A homemade treat is a sweet gesture and more memorable. Of course, have fun with the heart and red theme of the holiday!\n\n⢠Buy locally sourced flowers if possible. They have a smaller carbon footprint due to transportation. Plus, if they are organic, they will be free of pesticides. Whatâs not to love? If flowers do not work well, consider making a card out of recycled materials or support a local artist who uses recycled materials to make their own unique creations.\n\n⢠Does your significant other fancy jewelry? Keep in mind that mining gold, diamonds, and other minerals causes habitat disruption, greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and soil erosion. Minimize these impacts with a one-of-a-kind second-hand vintage piece.\n\n⢠Go <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+have+an+eco-friendly+valentine\'s+day">online</a> to find more ideas on how to make your holiday eco-friendly.',description:'Happy Valentineâs Day from the Earth Hero team!\n\nThe holiday is about showing appreciation to loved one
1s, family, and friends. Make it even better with easy ways to show love without creating lots of waste and pollution in the process. Leaving a mess is no way to celebrate!\n\nEach year, there are <a href="https://recyclenation.com/2016/02/recycle-your-valentines-day/">millions of boxes of chocolates sold, and due to their packaging, most of these boxes are sent to the landfill.</a> Yikes!\n\nAround <a href="https://inhabitat.com/100-million-roses-for-valentines-day-emit-9000-metric-tons-of-co2/">100 million roses are grown for Valentineâs Day and the way it is typically done generates a massive amount of carbon pollution.</a> They are typically grown in warm climates and then flown across the world. Plus, they need to be kept in temperature-controlled containers and require consistent watering and pesticides to maintain their fleeting appearance.\n\nShow the Earth, our one and only home, some love this Valentineâs Day by making conscious decisions to celebrate in better ways.',summary:"Valentine's Day often generates waste and pollution, from discarded chocolate boxes to carbon-heavy flower imports. Celebrate love sustainably without harming the planet by choosing eco-friendly gestures and gifts.",additionalResources:"https://ecotero.com/eco-friendly-valentines-day-tips/\n\nhttps://medium.com/eco-living/14-eco-friendly-ideas-for-a-sustainable-valentines-day-1608def73a8d\n\nhttps://www.smartenergygb.org/smart-living/energy-saving-tips/how-to-be-eco-friendly-on-valentine-s-day\n\nhttps://inhabitat.com/9-ways-to-have-an-eco-friendly-valentines-day/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@kellysikkema'>Kelly Sikkema</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recSGJo2bxvY09Pm0",id:682,slug:"682-engage-in-climate-change-education",title:"Engage in climate change education",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice","Resilience"],earthPoints:100,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/682-engage-in-climate-change-education",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:4,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions","Friends & Family"],related:["recE4R2XqcV09RKsM","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recre35xh9DIOrpT0","recLTpXNXSYa49aRV","recSyql2ZISp498Tl","rec4nNsrnxFNJWJ4Q","recFC2oHRE4oa7lXf","recJpcNfCyOls5968"],tips:'There are two basic steps to engage in climate change education. First, find opportunities to share knowledge. Second, prepare some great information to share tailored to your audience. To get you thinking about it, here are some more suggestions.\n\nStart with the basics. Explain what climate change is, what causes it, and its impacts on the environment and our society. Use simple and clear language, and avoid jargon or technical terms. You can use examples from your own experience or from the news to illustrate your points.\n\nThere is no need to reinvent the wheel. There are a wide range of sources to borrow from below for different circumstances.\n\n⢠Resources for students of all ages:\n\n- <a href="https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence/">NASA - Global Climate Change</a>\n- <a href="https://earthengine.google.com/timelapse/">Google Earth Time lapse</a>\n- <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/co2-and-greenhouse-gas-emissions">Our World in Data</a>\n- <a href="https://www.drawdown.org/climate-solutions-101">Climate Solutions 101 presented by Project Drawdown</a>\n- <a href="https://www.ualberta.ca/women-in-scholarship-engineering-science-technology/media-library/documents/210916_stemhome_guide_climate.pdf">STEM @ Home Guide - List of climate resources</a>\n\n⢠Resources for students in school:\n\n- <a href="https://letstalkscience.ca/educational-resources/backgrounders/introduction-climate-change">Letâs Talk Science - Introduction to Climate Change</a>\n- <a href="https://www.allwecansave.earth/for-educators">All We Can Save - Educator resources</a>\n- <a href="https://thecarbonalmanac.org/177/">
1Carbon Almanac - The Educators guide</a>\n- <a href="https://climatekids.ca/">Climate Kids - For younger students</a> \n- <a href="https://letstalkscience.ca/clothing4climate">Letâs Talk Science - Clothing 4 Climate</a>\n- <a href="https://survivethecentury.net/">Survive the Century game</a>\n\nDo you know other resources that should be a part of this list? Please let us know to make it easier for others to find the best resources! You can email us at <a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>.',description:"Our planet is suffering from a fever that worsens as we burn more fossil fuels and clear forests. Climate change is causing sea levels to rise, wildfires to rage, and floods to devastate. We are responsible for informing ourselves and others and inspiring the next generation to take action. Only with knowledge can we advance solutions to improve our world.\n\nAs educators, whether formal or informal, we can raise awareness about climate change and sustainability. There are many resources that can help us teach students of all ages about the climate crisis, such as websites, lesson plans, modules, games, and assignments. We can use these tools to enlighten people in various settings, such as classrooms, community groups, workplaces, or casual conversations.\n\nBe part of the solution by educating others. Jump in and start sharing knowledge to wake people up!",summary:"Only with knowledge can we advance solutions to improve our world. We are responsible for informing ourselves and others to take action. Jump in and start sharing knowledge about the climate emergency.",additionalResources:"https://climatereportingmasterclass.com/learn-more/\nhttps://letstalkscience.ca/about-us/news-and-media/climate-crisis-education ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@javotrueba">Javier Treuba</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recMvvx4yKmLitcLX",id:683,slug:"683-learn-about-environmental-justice",title:"Learn about environmental justice",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/683-learn-about-environmental-justice",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["rec7oVIrxzgcmBCdT","recHs0QJIwdbcUTC4","rec8yIeh04z4giJbk"],tips:'⢠Once you start to notice who is most impacted by poor air, water, food, and other basics needed for survival, it is hard to unsee it. Bring light to the issue and make it harder to sweep these messes under the rug at the expense of others.\n\n⢠Consider learning from others or researching the local laws and policies that are designed to perpetuate environmental justice issues. Identifying where the specific problems are is a natural first step to addressing them.\n\n⢠<a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=environmental+justice+examples">Search online</a> to read more about environmental justice examples to better understand the issue and how we can make progress.\n\n⢠The website <a href="https://www.intersectionalenvironmentalist.com/">Intersectional Environmentalist</a> is an excellent resource hub that amplifies diverse voices in the environmental space.\n\n⢠As you learn more about environmental justice, you will naturally start to feel more confident in pointing out unfair situations and advocating for fairer approaches.',description:'Environmental justice is the term for rectifying the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards on certain groups of people, especially low-income ones. The pollution generated from all the stuff we create and throw away, electricity, travel, and other hazards from fossil fuels and industrial processes negatively impacts all of us, but it tends to harm those with less power and resources to shield themselves the most. That is simply not fair. The first step is to become aware of the issue to ensure progress for everyone.\n\nWhat are examples of environmental justice issues?\n\nA key one is the placement of polluting industry, mining, and waste management businesses that expose people to toxins. The decision of where these nasty places go tends to be made by more powerful people at the expense of others. The companies could reduce the amount of pollution they create, but that c
1osts more, so passing that pollution on to those who cannot stop it from happening is more profitable. Naturally, it is rare for the company owners or leaders to actually live near where these businesses do their dirty work.\n\nAlso, lower-income areas tend to be less walkable, have fewer biking lanes, fewer buses and trains, and fewer green spaces and trees. That adds up to more gas cars and greater air pollution for kids and adults alike to breathe in, negatively impacting health and quality of life.\n\nOur global supply chains also tend to export pollution to lower-income countries. The environmental degradation and poor health effects that go along with creating all the stuff we consume can fall on the countries where the manufacturing happens. That is where the forests get raised, the mining happens, and the chemicals get mixed so that the finished product can be shipped to higher-income consumers.\n\nIn broader terms, another environmental justice issue is how countries in the Global South are more likely to experience the most extreme impacts of climate change and have fewer resources to adapt to it. On the other hand, wealthier countries in the Global North <a href="https://eos.org/articles/global-north-is-responsible-for-92-of-excess-emissions">have emitted the majority of global carbon pollution</a>.\n\nAs the movement for a better-shared world grows, it is important to recognize these imbalances and take advantage of people. The voices of those who have not traditionally had the power or money to be heard need to be amplified. Pushing the mess onto others is not solving anything, and eventually, the mess comes back around.',summary:"Learn about how the disproportionate burden of environmental hazards tends to impact certain groups of people, especially low-income ones, and what can be done about these unfair situations.",additionalResources:"https://friendsoftheearth.uk/climate/climate-change-and-air-pollution-are-race-issues \n\nhttps://ajph.aphapublications.org/doi/pdf/10.2105/AJPH.2017.304297\n\nhttps://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2016/sep/06/climate-change-racist-crisis-london-city-airport-black-lives-matter\n\nhttps://www.sierraclub.org/sierra/racism-killing-planet\n\nhttps://medium.com/insurge-intelligence/white-supremacism-and-the-earth-system-fa14e0ea6147 \n\nhttps://medium.com/sustainability-x/climate-activists-heres-why-your-work-depends-on-ending-police-violence-fa1a76cf8c6f\n\nhttps://tcf.org/content/commentary/environmental-racism-left-black-communities-especially-vulnerable-covid-19/\n\nhttps://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/28/magazine/pollution-philadelphia-black-americans.html",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@worldsbetweenlines'>Patrick Hendry</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recoGaxJbDtjuKovW",id:684,slug:"684-borrow-library-books",title:"Borrow library books",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/684-borrow-library-books",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð² Conserve Forests"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recUZsIcKh8tX3IiL","recFC2oHRE4oa7lXf","recBjXS48FRsfQIYq"],tips:"⢠Many library services allow you to request books from a different branch to be delivered to your local branch.\n\n⢠Many library services have the option to request they purchase a title they do not already have.\n\n⢠If you really need to buy a book, go for it! Figure out what works for you. Naturally, consider only buying books you read frequently or need to refer to. Where possible, purchase these second-hand.\n\n⢠If you purchase a book or are gifted one, consider passing it on after finishing it.",description:"Most people only read a book once. By borrowing books from the library instead of buying them, multiple people read each copy, reducing the number of copies that need to be produced. This, in turn, reduces the number of trees cut down, the associated energy cost, and transportation fuel usage. Plus, borrowing books al
1so frees up space in your home!",summary:"Reading books is a fantastic way to spend your time, but buying them new and only reading them once can be a little wasteful. Borrow from the library so that many people can enjoy the same book, and you can save some money!",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@lightrisephoto">Devon Divine</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/Hzp-1ua8DVE">Unsplash</a>\n '},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recBVNXu7BfJfzR9V",id:692,slug:"692-have-a-green-saint-patrick-s-day",title:"Have a green Saint Patrickâs day",categories:["Family & Community","Travel & Transport","Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/692-have-a-green-saint-patrick-s-day",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["rec8ncTnkhYvWjAMI","recMUtQANEfCZUoGJ","recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH","reccG4IVWSpbswtiI","rec9HA3w25sV7eZ5I","reccCQdrcibgHUm3u","recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7","recLMBgbY5AXUNDNm","recDdSM33oIEQNip9","recxkxaIsOV289KUe"],tips:'Here are ways to bring more green into our world this St. Pat\'s!\n\n⢠Reuse decorations from previous years. If buying new, buy with future re-usability in mind.\n\n⢠You can also purchase second-hand decorations or make homemade decorations using items in your home. Be creative!\n\n⢠For theme parties, try to find green clothes second-hand or rent costumes.\n\n⢠When traveling to festivities, use green transportation such as bikes, buses, and trains.\n\n⢠Celebrate in a truly green way by planting something green. Consider making this an annual tradition.\n\n⢠Go easy on the green beer because <a href="https://ecotero.com/eco-friendly-st-patricks-day/">certain food and drink dyes are synthesized from coal or petroleum and can negatively affect human health</a>. Drinking green beer is not an Irish tradition.\n\n⢠Skip the corned beef. As you may know, cows are inefficient to raise. As a result, forests are being cut down to make room for more farmland to support them. These
1changes in land usage release greenhouse gases and contribute to global warming.\n\n⢠Go big on eating green with naturally green-colored dishes based around mint, pistachios, lime, zucchini, green beans, broccoli, snap peas, or avocados. <a href="https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/green-food-to-celebrate-st-patrick-s-day/">Check out this website for some tasty options to consider.</a>\n\nHappy St. Patrickâs Day from the Earth Hero team! Luck oâ the Irish to ya!',description:"Bring some extra green into your St. Patrickâs Day fun by celebrating with sustainability in mind.\n\nWhat began as an Irish celebration in the 17th century has become an internationally recognized holiday focusing on Irish traditions and the color green. However, like most commercial holidays, current St. Patrickâs Day festivities are often not so eco-friendly. For example, single-use items such as decorations or clothes take resources and energy to make and quickly end up in a landfill.\n\nTake a fresh look at how you enjoy the day, save some money and time, and improve your well-being while you are at it!",summary:"St. Patrick's Day can be a lot of fun, but it can also involve a lot of single-use items. Bring some extra Earth green thinking into the fun by celebrating with sustainability in mind!",additionalResources:"https://greenerideal.com/guides/go-green-st-patricks-day/\nhttps://justenergy.com/blog/ways-to-celebrate-a-truly-green-st-patricks-day/\n",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@xiaomingyo">Yan Ming</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec9Zr9i7vvMyBng7",id:694,slug:"694-eco-friendly-egg-hunts",title:"Eco-friendly egg hunts",categories:["Stuff","Outside","Family & Community"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/694-eco-friendly-egg-hunts",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Save Money","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["rec3nRYHE5wzFtt5e","recHXOuokHO1jPFv5","recHuPx9Y4okAVmlL","rec76kDi5aFobGFRU","recShaA9W0jWlRdLb","reckWUiDLsY6TuW7f","recBzbA3LP0QiHEPb"],tips:'Options for eggs:\n\n⢠Reuse the eggs you have each year. No need to waste money on buying more and creating more waste.\n\n⢠If you need some new ones, use egg containers made from plant-based or recyclable materials.\n\n⢠Looking for a fun project? Make eggs out of paper maché, which is mixing recycled paper, flour, salt, and sometimes glue, then drying. The result is a totally biodegradable egg.\n\nAlternatives for baskets:\n\n⢠Again, the best option is to reuse the ones you already have.\n\n⢠Make your own basket out of materials you already have using <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+your+own+easter+basket+using+recycled+materials">online tutorials</a>.\n\n⢠Buy second-hand baskets.\n\n⢠Consider asking a friend or neighbor if they are interested in an Easter basket swap to keep things fresh.\n\nAlternatives for plastic grass:\n\n⢠Be creative! Instead of using shredded paper, use green scarves, yarn, felt, or any other soft materials you have around the house that can be used again and again.\n\n⢠Use fake grass made from 100% recycled paper.\n\n⢠Make your own basket filling from recycled paper or newspaper.\n\n⢠Use natural grass from your yard, planter, or indoor garden.\n\nFinally, talk with others about what you have done to avoid creating new plastic waste. Let\'s appreciate the environment those eggs are hidden in!',description:'Though Easter egg hunts began in Germany in the 16th century, <a href="https://blog.english-heritage.org.uk/the-history-of-the-egg-hunt">they were popularized by in the 1800s at Kensington Palace in England.</a> They are a fun activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Make them even better by reducing the usage of polluting single-use plastic!\n\nNowadays, Easter egg hunts often include plastic eggs, baskets, and perhaps plastic grass to line the baskets. Because these items are designed to be used for Easter, they are usually thrown out after one use. They end up in landfills because they are difficult to recycle. Make your hunt eco-friendly by using reusable and sustainable options instead.\n\nHappy Easter from the Earth Hero team! :-)',summary:"Many modern Easter egg hunts include plastic, such as plastic eggs, baskets, and even grass! Make your hunt eco-friendly by using reusable and sustainable options instead to reduce plastic pollution and waste.",additionalResources:"https://earth911.com/living-well-being/eco-friendly-easter/ \n\nhttps://holisticnursemomma.com/eco-friendly-easter1/ \n\nhttps://econnectsolar.com.au/the-solar-blog/have-an-eco-friendly-easter/ \n\nhttps://earthfriendlytips.com/how-to-have-an-eco-friendly-easter/ \n\n",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@marigard'>Bee Felten-Leidel</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recBzbA3LP0QiHEPb",id:695,slug:"695-decorate-eggs-with-natural-dyes",title:"Decorate eggs with natural dyes",categories:["Stuff","Family & Community"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/695-decorate-eggs-with-natural-dyes",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec9Zr9i7vvMyBng7","rec1RqWoi5xmriEUy","rechoZzsqhYc8BcS9"],tips:'Here are some ideas to try out natural dyes.\n\nMaterials\n\n⢠A pot\n⢠Eggs\n⢠Whisk\n⢠Small bowls\n⢠Tongs\n⢠Paper or cloth towels\n⢠Vinegar\n\nIngredients to make the dyes (dyeing agents). Note: Some ingredients are listed for multiple colors. This is because the ingredients produce different c
1olors based on how they are prepared and how long the eggs soak in the solution.\n\n⢠Red â Beets, paprika, cranberries, raspberries\n⢠Pink â Beets, turmeric, onion skins\n⢠Orange â Yellow onion skins, saffron, chili powder\n⢠Yellow â Turmeric, carrots, orange peels, lemon peels\n⢠Green â Turmeric, red onions, spinach\n⢠Blue â Red cabbage, blueberries\n⢠Purple â Beets, grape juice, hibiscus tea\n⢠Brown â Onion skins, black coffee\n\nItems to make designs on your eggs:\n\n⢠Leaves or flower petals\n⢠Wax crayons\n⢠Seeds â can be applied to the eggs using glue\n⢠Rubber bands\n⢠Paint\n⢠Anything in your house that could create an interesting design when applied to your eggs\n\nHow to dye your eggs\n\n1. Prepare your eggs.\n\n⢠For real eggs, boil them for 10â12 minutes.\n\n⢠For wooden eggs, no prep is needed.\n\n2. Draw/apply your designs to the eggs. If you are up for a challenge, why not try decorating your eggs the Ukrainian way by following <a href="https://www.allrecipes.com/article/how-to-decorate-pysanky-ukrainian-easter-eggs/">this step-by-step guide</a>.\n\n3. Make the dyes.\n\n⢠In the pot, add two tablespoons of vinegar, one quart of water, and one of your dyeing agents.\n\n⢠Bring the pot to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.\n\n⢠Repeat this process for each color you would like to make.\n\n4. Dye your eggs.\n\n⢠Place the eggs in the dye and use the whisk to coat them with the dyeing solution.\n\n⢠Refer to these links to see how long your eggs should soak in your solutions to create the desired color(s) and how long the solution needs to boil once the egg is in the pot.\n\n- <a href="https://www.english-heritage.org.uk/easter/preparing-for-easter-adventure-quests/how-to-decorate-easter-eggs">English Heritage â How to Decorate Eggs for Easter</a>\n\n- <a href="https://diy-enthusiasts.com/decorating-ideas/easter/dye-decorate-easter-eggs-naturally/"> DIY Enthusiasts â How to dye and decorate Easter eggs naturally</a>\n\n- <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/267850/dyeing-eggs-naturally">How to Naturally Dye Easter Eggs</a>\n\n5. Remove and dry the eggs.\n\n⢠After the egg has absorbed the desired color, remove it using tongs and pat it dry with a towel (paper or cloth).\n\n6. Enjoy your beautiful eggs!',description:'Humans have been decorating eggs for thousands of years to <a href="https://www.countryliving.com/life/a26388851/history-of-easter-eggs/">celebrate the start of spring</a>. Make your Easter eggs special and unique this year by dying them yourself using natural dyes rather than synthetic.\n\nWhy use natural dyes instead of food coloring? Food coloring is <a href="https://spoonuniversity.com/lifestyle/food-coloring-is-petroleum-and-no-one-is-talking-about-it">actually derived from petroleum</a>, it <a href="https://www.ideasforus.org/effects-of-food-dye-on-the-environment/">causes environmental damage where it is produced</a>, and it can cause <a href="https://publichealth.berkeley.edu/news-media/research-highlights/new-report-shows-artificial-food-coloring-causes-hyperactivity-in-some-kids/">allergic reactions and even hyperactivity in some children.</a> The risk may be low for most people, but the eco-friendly alternative is to use natural ingredients and items you may already have in your home to decorate your Easter eggs.',summary:"Did you know that food coloring is often derived from petroleum? Not only is it bad for the environment, it is also not great for our health. When dying eggs this spring, opt for natural alternatives.",additionalResources:"https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-vibrant-naturally-dyed-easter-eggs-holiday-projects-from-the-kitchn-112957\n\nhttps://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/natural-dyes-for-easter-eggs-recipe-1954856\n\nhttps://www.allrecipes.com/article/natural-easter-egg-dyes/\n\nhttps://www.steampoweredfamily.com/activities/how-to-naturally-dye-easter-eggs/\n\nhttps://www.goodhousekeeping.com/holidays/easter-ideas/how-to/a31737/natural-easter-egg-dyes/",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@mikbutcher'>Michal Balog</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec3nRYHE5wzFtt5e",id:696,slug:"696-eat-only-sustainable-chocolate",title:"Eat only sustainable chocolate",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/696-eat-only-sustainable-chocolate",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ Preserve Water"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recvV7yUxSJvciNX7","recEb5reGCF6UjW9f","recKATF3B8xYYgfDs","recxH7XK36zO56CRt","recrRqHe2YdtBfLb7","recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","rec5PAE08WBHFBBjX","recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","recJdIfA2i2gx05Gp","rec9Zr9i7vvMyBng7","recBzbA3LP0QiHEPb"],tips:'⢠There are lots of eco-friendly chocolates out there! You can <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=eco-friendly+ch
1ocolate+brands">search for options online</a>.\n\n⢠The best chocolates will be some combination of sustainable cocoa, plant-based milk (no dairy), no child labor, and recyclable packaging. It may be hard to find all that, but do what you can while satisfying your sweet tooth. Have fun exploring options and consider mixing in sugar candies (no cocoa), which check most of these boxes.\n\n⢠You can also buy from local chocolatiers. Artisan chocolatiers differ from large chocolate brands since they are more likely to use organic chocolate grown using traditional and sustainable methods, though it is good to double-check that. They can also make more specialized chocolates rather than simple bars or bite-sized treats. You can find local artisan chocolatiers near you by using <a href="https://near-me.store/en/local-chocolatiers-near-me">this web tool</a> or by conducting a quick <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=chocolatiers+near+me">internet search.</a>',description:'Lots of people enjoy eating chocolate, but unfortunately <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0963996918301273">it takes more water and creates more pollution than many other food products.</a> What chocolate, really?! The core issue is that the demand for cocoa is rising. That means more milk from methane-belching cows and the cutting down of forests to produce cocoa. <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_cocoa_production">This causes massive deforestation</a>. Mix in some farmers using <a href="https://fortune.com/2020/10/19/chocolate-child-labor-west-africa-cocoa-farms/">child labor</a> to help grow, harvest, and transport cocoas beans, and there is a complicated dark side to this treat.\n\nRemember, progress, not perfection. If you love chocolate and eating less of it makes your life worse, then opt for sustainably produced chocolate.\n\nUnfortunately, most big brand chocolates are <a href="https://www.confectionerynews.com/Article/2019/11/10/Big-chocolate-makers-still-falter-in-holistic-sustainability-says-Green-America">not produced sustainably.</a> Choose fair trade and sustainable options instead. A bonus is to avoid purchasing products that will fill the landfill with non-recyclable packaging.',summary:"Did you know that producing chocolate has a surprisingly high environmental impact because it involves cutting down forests and using cow milk? You can help change this by choosing chocolate that is sustainably made.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@jessicaloaizar'>Jessica Loaiza</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recqTwzhnfFhA66mM",id:705,slug:"705-protect-the-night",title:"Protect the night",categories:["Energy","Outside","Advocacy & Choice","Family & Community"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/705-protect-the-night",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Save Money","ð¡ Reduce Light Pollution","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["recm4H5TLXQFiuCue","recgcQJp8d0FFX39b","rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V"],tips:'⢠Follow the International Dark-Sky Association\'s <a href="https://darksky.org/resources/guides-and-how-tos/lighting-principles/">Five Principles for Responsible Outdoor Lighting</a>.\n\n⢠In areas where safety is a concern, it is good to note that 24/7 lighting has been found to <a href="https://www.darksky.org/light-pollution/lighting-crime-and-safety/">not have a crime deterrent impact</a>.\n\n⢠Take a look at this interesting <a href="https://www.lightpollutionmap.info/">global light pollution map</a>.\n\n⢠Do we really need all that lighting around our gorgeous landscapes? Think instead about less lighting and design a night landscape.',description:'People light up the night almost without thinking, as we have for millennia. At the minimal level, we do this instinctively for our survival and protection. But the practice has grown to destructive extremes in modern societies. With a lack of understanding and appreciation for the night sky, most have failed to consider the costs and consequences of turning darkness into light. Instead, particularly in urban areas, we have come to expect and admire bright lights at night. What goes unseen is the extent to which nighttime lighting wastes vast amounts of money and energy (typically in the form of electricity generated from burning fossil fuels), damages ecosystems, and detrimentally affects our health (1)(5)(6)(7).\n\nThere are estimates that lighting accounts for 15 percent of global electricity consumption and 5 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. It is a colossal waste that comes with significant pollution and economic costs (2)(3)(4)(5).\n\nThe good news is that there are many ways we can act to reverse this trend at multiple levels (e.g., individual, residential, business, industrial, governmental). Awareness about light pollution and effective solutions and success stories are growing. Consider the following actions to do your part.\n\nSave energy and money:\n\n⢠First, consider and analyze your nighttime energy use, especially in outdoor lighting.\n\n⢠Turn off lights when not in use or use automatic sensors.\n\n⢠Use efficient LED bulbs and lighting fixtures with shields that only brighten areas where needed.\n\nContribute your time to building awareness and community support:\n\n⢠A great place to get started is to join up with <a href="https://www.globeatnight.org/">Globe at Night</a>. You can help measure night-sky brightness and contribute your data to build knowledge and inform action.\n\n⢠Contribute to an existing event or coordinate a new stargazing, lights-out, or similar activity to inform and engage.\n\n⢠If you are an educator, incorporate light pollution into your programming or curriculum(s).\n\nAdvocate for broader change in your community and beyond:\n\n⢠Research and then urge your community to adopt or improve a lighting ordinance, especially for street lighting.\n\n⢠Reach out to local elected official(s) or building manager(s) to build awareness and stimulate change. <a href="https://www.audubon.org/lights-out-program">Audubon\'s Lights Out program</a> provides sample letters and other resources:\n\n⢠Urge your employer or school to take a <a href="https://sustainability.wustl.edu/lights-out-pledge-protects-migrating-birds/">Lights Out Pledge</a> or otherwise commit to evaluating and improving outdoor lighting.\n\nEnjoy the darkness of the night. While humans cannot see well in the dark, many creatures depend on it. If you can escape to a quiet, natural area after dark, consider yourself lucky and take advantage of it! Soak in the sounds and sky and observe the nightlife.\n\nReferences:\n\n(1) Chepesiuk R. (2009). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.117-a20">Missing the dark: health effects of light pollution. Environmental health perspectives</a>, 117(1), A20âA27.\n\n(2) <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/outdoor-light-pollution/">Glare-Raising: How Much Energy Does Excessive Nighttime Lighting Waste?</a>
1 Scientific American\n\n(3) <a href="https://nitmmedia.com/2020/11/02/light-pollution-the-overlooked-issue-destroying-planet-earth/">Light Pollution: The Overlooked Issue Destroying Planet Earth</a>\n\n(4) <a href="https://breakingenergy.com/2015/12/08/rise-and-shine-lighting-the-world-with-10-billion-led-bulbs/">Rise and Shine: Lighting the World with 10 Billion LED Bulbs.</a>Department of Energy.\n\n(5) <a href="https://cescos.fau.edu/observatory/lightpol-econ.html">Light Pollution Hurts Our Economy and Our Resources</a>\n\n(6) <a href="https://cires.colorado.edu/news/bright-city-lights-affect-air-pollution ">Bright City Lights Affect Air Pollution â CIRES</a>\n\n(7) <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/294na7_en.pdf">Street lighting affects insect biodiversity</a>People light up the night almost without thinking, as we have for millennia. At the minimal level, we do this instinctively for our survival and protection. But the practice has grown to destructive extremes in modern societies. With a lack of understanding and appreciation for the night sky, most have failed to consider the costs and consequences of turning darkness into light. Instead, particularly in urban areas, we have come to expect and admire bright lights at night. What goes unseen is the extent to which nighttime lighting wastes vast amounts of money and energy (typically in the form of electricity generated from burning fossil fuels), damages ecosystems, and detrimentally affects our health (1)(5)(6)(7).\n\nThere are estimates that lighting accounts for 15 percent of global electricity consumption and 5 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. It is a colossal waste that comes with significant pollution and economic costs (2)(3)(4)(5).\n\nThe good news is that there are many ways we can act to reverse this trend at multiple levels (e.g., individual, residential, business, industrial, governmental). Awareness about light pollution and effective solutions and success stories are growing. Consider the following actions to do your part.\n\nSave energy and money:\n\n⢠First, consider and analyze your nighttime energy use, especially in outdoor lighting.\n\n⢠Turn off lights when not in use or use automatic sensors.\n\n⢠Use efficient LED bulbs and lighting fixtures with shields that only brighten areas where needed.\n\nContribute your time to building awareness and community support:\n\n⢠A great place to get started is to join up with <a href="https://www.globeatnight.org/">Globe at Night</a>. You can help measure night-sky brightness and contribute your data to build knowledge and inform action.\n\n⢠Contribute to an existing event or coordinate a new stargazing, lights-out, or similar activity to inform and engage.\n\n⢠If you are an educator, incorporate light pollution into your programming or curriculum(s).\n\nAdvocate for broader change in your community and beyond:\n\n⢠Research and then urge your community to adopt or improve a lighting ordinance, especially for street lighting.\n\n⢠Reach out to local elected official(s) or building manager(s) to build awareness and stimulate change. <a href="https://www.audubon.org/lights-out-program">Audubon\'s Lights Out program</a> provides sample letters and other resources:\n\n⢠Urge your employer or school to take a <a href="https://sustainability.wustl.edu/lights-out-pledge-protects-migrating-birds/">Lights Out Pledge</a> or otherwise commit to evaluating and improving outdoor lighting.\n\nEnjoy the darkness of the night. While humans cannot see well in the dark, many creatures depend on it. If you can escape to a quiet, natural area after dark, consider yourself lucky and take advantage of it! Soak in the sounds and sky and observe the nightlife.\n\nReferences:\n\n(1) Chepesiuk R. (2009). <a href="https://doi.org/10.1289/ehp.117-a20">Missing the dark: health effects of light pollution. Environmental health perspectives</a>, 117(1), A20âA27.\n\n(2) <a href="https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/outdoor-light-pollution/">Glare-Raising: How Much Energy Does Excessive Nighttime Lighting Waste?</a>
1 Scientific American\n\n(3) <a href="https://nitmmedia.com/2020/11/02/light-pollution-the-overlooked-issue-destroying-planet-earth/">Light Pollution: The Overlooked Issue Destroying Planet Earth</a>\n\n(4) <a href="https://breakingenergy.com/2015/12/08/rise-and-shine-lighting-the-world-with-10-billion-led-bulbs/">Rise and Shine: Lighting the World with 10 Billion LED Bulbs.</a>Department of Energy.\n\n(5) <a href="https://cescos.fau.edu/observatory/lightpol-econ.html">Light Pollution Hurts Our Economy and Our Resources</a>\n\n(6) <a href="https://cires.colorado.edu/news/bright-city-lights-affect-air-pollution ">Bright City Lights Affect Air Pollution â CIRES</a>\n\n(7) <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/294na7_en.pdf">Street lighting affects insect biodiversity</a>',summary:"Excessive lighting at night not only wastes energy but also disrupts countless species that rely on darkness. You can help by turning off unnecessary lights at night and encouraging others to do the same.",additionalResources:"⢠Educational resources are available at the National Geographic Resource Library: Light Pollution https://www.nationalgeographic.org/article/light-pollution/ and the International Dark-Sky Association: https://www.darksky.org/our-work/grassroots-advocacy/resources/educators/.\n\n⢠The Artificial Light at Night (ALAN) Research Literature Database https://www.zotero.org/groups/2913367/alan_db/library provides references to scientific literature on all aspects of artificial light at night research.\n\n⢠Part-night lighting halves vehicle crime, but may displace it to nearby lit streets. (2022) https://phys.org/news/2022-03-part-night-halves-vehicle-crime-displace.html.\n\n⢠Pyrenees La Nuit http://pirineoslanuit.org/ \nLes Jours de la Nuit https://www.lesjoursdelanuit.re/notre-demarche/.\n\n⢠Light Pollution & Climate Change article on the European Commission website https://ec.europa.eu/programmes/erasmus-plus/project-result-content/0eb54a4b-9b44-47a1-9acb-c56685ce80c5/Light%20Pollution%20%26%20Climate%20Change%20(Turkey).pdf.\n\n⢠Lights Out Heartland Initiative https://lightsoutheartland.org/ (U.S.A.). ",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@jdubs'>Johnson Wang</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reccNgLAi8Qk14fh4",id:711,slug:"711-re-green-your-area",title:"Re-green your area",categories:["Outside"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/711-re-green-your-area",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð§ Preserve Water","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:2,related:["recukRmfuJCRHpuk2","recuA9sI14gCU9YAI","recHDEea5lW6bBcfw"],tips:"Here are some examples to get you thinking:\n\n⢠Remove unused areas of hard paving and replace them with dirt and greenery.\n\n⢠Plant hedging as a boundary rather than using artificial materials.\n\n⢠If adding a walkway out of concrete, stone, or other materials, keep its footprint limited so there is more space for plants.\n\n⢠Cover walls and fences with climbers and ivy.\n\n⢠Even if you have a small yard or windowsill, you can fill these with planters full of native shrubs and flowers for a prettier view and increase the habitat for insects and birds.\n\n⢠When greening previously barren areas, consider low-maintenance plants like trees, perennials, ground cover, and shrubs that tend to take care of themselves. Consider avoiding high-maintenance plants like grass that you need to cut and water regularly.",description:"We are losing our yards at an alarming rate, with many being paved over and covered with concrete, stone, artificial grass, or gravel.\n\nThis is superheating the area around our homes, removing animal habitats, making flooding more likely, and increasing the amount of COâ in the atmosphere. Sometimes, it looks quite unsightly and, in reality, requires more maintenance and cost than natural alternatives.\n\nWe are in danger of creating vast concrete neighborhoods with long-term damaging effects on the environment and our happiness. Who w
1ants to look out of their window and see nothing but parked cars and walls? Anything man-made has a natural alternative when it comes to our outdoor spaces, so get to re-greening where you can!",summary:"We are losing our green space at an alarming rate, with many being covered with concrete, gravel, and artificial grass. This is terrible for our environment and often ugly. Consider re-greening an area to improve biodiversity and for your enjoyment.",additionalResources:"https://capabilitycharlotte.com/artificial-grass",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt'>Annie Spratt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recivA6OxxZNRmETu",id:724,slug:"724-avoid-smoking-and-vaping",title:"Avoid smoking and vaping",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/724-avoid-smoking-and-vaping",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð³ Save Money","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rectvYQA5JU3CJjE4"],tips:"⢠If you are having difficulty cutting back or quitting, do not be hard on yourself! This task is not an easy one. These products are addictive, so this is normal. Look for support from your family, friends, doctor, and community to help lead you in the right direction. Take it one small victory and step at a time toward a better life.\n\n⢠If you vape and are having a hard t
1ime stopping or do not intend to, opt for refillable ones so that you discard less waste and save money.\n\n⢠If you do not smoke or vape nicotine, keep it that way! Because of stress, you may want to restart this habit, but do not give up on your efforts. As we said above, smoking actually causes more stress than it alleviates. Your impact is bigger than you probably realized.",description:'Tobacco does not just negatively impact the health of individuals, as most of us are aware, it also endangers our environment. The cultivation, production, distribution, consumption, and waste from smoking have a meaningful negative impact. For example, the annual emissions from manufacturing, processing, and transportation of tobacco are equal to <a href="https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240051287">one-fifth of the climate pollution created by the commercial aviation sector</a>.\n\nThe smoke from cigarettes and e-cigarettes itself is not a big impact, but <a href="https://www.popsci.com/environment/article/2008-06/does-smoking-contribute-global-warming/">600 million trees are felled and burned annually to dry and cure tobacco leaves</a>. Additionally, 6 kilometers of paper an hour is used to wrap and package cigarettes.\n\nFurther, when e-cigarette and cigarette waste isnât disposed of properly, it makes its way into our environment, polluting water, air, and land with toxic chemicals [almost 600] and heavy metals. <a href="https://truthinitiative.org/research-resources/harmful-effects-tobacco/tobacco-and-environment">An estimated 750,000+ metric tons of cigarette butts and e-cigarette waste make their way into our environment every year.</a>\n\nAnd then there is the mental harm. Nicotine is often used as a way to reduce stress, but we often forget that stress is caused in part by the dependence on tobacco. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10540594/">Cigarettes lure us into thinking they soothe our stress while they actually seem to create it</a>.\n\nA bonus from avoiding smoking and vaping is you save a lot of money! All those Nicotine products add up to a lot of money. Not to mention the healthcare-related treatments due to their negative effects.',summary:"Smoking and vaping are not just bad for your health; it is also bad for our environment. 600 million trees are cut down and burned annually to dry and cure tobacco leaves. Avoid it to help yourself and our planet!",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@matmacq">Mathew MacQuarrie</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recVuRZ9FuqApu5Dv",id:725,slug:"725-stock-your-first-aid-kit",title:"Stock your first aid kit",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/725-stock-your-first-aid-kit",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recoFE6S54atmd48z","reca3ofThAcccvGDb","recMuf6aHHMZfYTtj"],tips:'⢠It is simplest to begin with a purchased kit, which you can refill as needed by buying supplies in bulk.\n\n⢠Look for lists online, <a href="https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/anatomy-of-a-first-aid-kit.html">like this one</a>, for items to consider including.\n\n⢠Include personal items, such as backups for medications that people in your household need.\n\n⢠First-aid supplies can expire, so check your inventory periodically and replace them as needed.\n\n⢠Find a first aid manual that works for you and store it with your kit.\n\n⢠Label items clearly. It is easy to forget what is what, especially in a chaotic situation.',description:"Even if you do not know how to use every item in it, it is important to keep a well-stocked first-aid kit in your home. No one plans to be in an emergency, but that is no reason not to prepare for one!",summary:"When an emergency strikes, it is important to be prepared. Make sure your first aid kit is stocked and ready to go.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/peggy_marco-1553824/">Peggy und Marco Lachmann-Anke</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'}
1,{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recg1hgw6VG5OgHFS",id:728,slug:"728-store-an-emergency-bag-in-your-car",title:"Store an emergency bag in your car",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/728-store-an-emergency-bag-in-your-car",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recNrZ0iCyKQJ7LvW","recMuf6aHHMZfYTtj","rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V","reca3ofThAcccvGDb","recrmeh62zveoUKpE"],tips:'⢠Unlike a Go Bag at home, this kit lives in your car and is meant to help you if you are stranded somewhere.\n\n⢠It should likely include some water, non-perishable snacks, a light source, basic first-aid supplies, and suitable clothing. Beyond that, the supplies will depend on where you live and your local climate. Consult appropriate local sources when building your bag.\n\n⢠For more ideas, search online for good lists <a href="https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/emergency-preparedness/car-kit">like this one</a>.\n\n⢠Make sure to keep your emergency bag out of sight so as not to invite break-ins.',description:"If you spend a lot of time away from home and use a car to get there, then keeping a few supplies in your vehicle is a good idea. An emergency bag tailored for you and your region will help keep you safe if disaster strikes while you are on the road.",summary:"Emergencies can happen at any time, and you may
1not be able to get home to grab supplies. Having a small bag of emergency items in your vehicle could be invaluable should disaster strike while you are on the road.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@andrazlazic">Andraz Lazic</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recSJaUgBGIWTKmsg",id:729,slug:"729-get-an-emergency-radio",title:"Get an emergency radio",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/729-get-an-emergency-radio",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â³ Saves Time","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["rech3MkFFVtZhJS0V","reca3ofThAcccvGDb","rec3bA6E9rzlIJe7f","recUAwMbrIoUOOBwr"],tips:'⢠Some emergency radios have USB ports for charging small electronics or are powered by hand cranks or solar cells, so they could offer a little extra power if needed.\n\n⢠If mainly battery-powered, check periodically that the batteries are properly charged.\n\n⢠Hand-powered and solar radios are great because you do not need to worry about charged batteries.\n\n⢠You may want to consider a radio that works beyond commercial radio frequencies. If you go this route, be sure you know how to use it ahead of time.\n\n⢠Use a marker to write your local emergency frequencies on the radio itself after <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=what+radio+frequencies+should+I+monitor+during+an+emergency">a search online to find them</a>.',description:"In the event of a serious emergency, many countries broadcast information, including evacuation or other instructions, via special radio channels. Having a radio that works when there is no electricity and knowing what station to dial in for this information is critical when other communication systems fail.",summary:"Having a working, battery operated radio and knowing what channel to listen to for instructions could save your life in the event of an emergency.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@spiderdoesstuff">Maxim Bulyga</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rechK7LBwGELeKVUJ",id:731,slug:"731-join-a-cert",title:"Join a CERT",categories:["Resilience","Family & Community"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/731-join-a-cert",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recoFE6S54atmd48z","rec3bA6E9rzlIJe7f","rec1TaphOGxZEDGny"],tips:'⢠Interested in learning more? <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=find+local+Community+Emergency+Response+Team+training">Search online for local options</a> to see what is available and worth exploring further.\n\n⢠If you have trouble locating a CERT program, check with your local firehouse.\n\n⢠Some places have CERT programs for teens and kids, too!\n\n⢠Rural areas may not have a formal CERT but instead have a volunteer search and rescue team.',description:"Many communities have Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs to help prepare for disasters. These often include free training to ensure you know what to do for yourself and your neighbors in the event of an emergency. Disaster relief training is also available via global organizations like The Red Cross.",summary:"Do you know what to do in the event of a natural disaster? Join a CERT and be prepared for whatever emergency you may experience.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'<a href="https://www.freepik.com/free-photo/woman-contractor-hard-hat-with-clipboard-black-cup-white_16927826.htm">Image by azerbaijan_stockers</a> on Freepik'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJoVpochlKd1LPI",id:744,slug:"744-check-your-power-usage-regularly",title:"Check your power usage regularly",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/744-check-your-power-usage-regularly",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recmfK7eHweleLT9M","recFAPaskdomvwJQr","reccUgBSW31NFLF26"],tips:"⢠The first and most important step is determining the best way to monitor your kWh usage, which is the most common measurement metric. Can you do this through your supplier's app, website, or monthly statements? Will you need to read your meter on your own to get a better sense of the trends? Start to look into it.\n\n⢠Set a weekly or monthly reminder for yourself to check your usage. Once you get into the habit, it becomes a quick exercise to get a sense of your household trends.\n\n⢠Be careful of how you interpret usage metrics from your energy supplier. Sometimes, your kWh usage will be estimated and not actual because your meter is not checked every month or in real-time. Look into it and take this into account when drawing conclusions over shorter peri
1ods of time.\n\n⢠Does your supplier give you discounts for using energy at certain times of the day? Look into this as you are learning more about your energy usage and try to avoid using high-energy items during peak times.\n\n⢠Update your energy profile in the Earth Hero app for an updated estimate of the impact of emissions and track your progress over time!",description:'Globally, <a href="https://ourworldindata.org/emissions-by-sector#energy-electricity-heat-and-transport-73-2">about 10% of climate pollution is related to electricity consumption in residential buildings</a>, which means that this is a huge lever for us to combat climate change.\n\nTo monitor your progress and impact, regularly checking your power usage is a great place to start. Depending on your energy supplier, you can either check it in an app or your statement or look at your electricity meter. Monitoring your usage helps identify usage trends, peaks, and stray currents (energy flows due to wiring damage or supply system imbalances).\n\nSeeing the energy usage and actual monetary costs can help you avoid unnecessary waste, see the impact of household improvements, and save money.',summary:"Could you be wasting electricity (and therefore money) without even realizing it? Regularly checking your power usage can help identify areas where you may be able to improve efficiency and reduce waste.",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@pavement_special">Riccardo Annandale</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec7GifubB8vBZLit",id:746,slug:"746-use-beeswax-wraps",title:"Use beeswax wraps",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/746-use-beeswax-wraps",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec1BFCp6zfc3sjz5","recAm5WwkwMCdpmgS","recSPX0Ec9NaZl9Tz"],tips:'⢠Most grocery stores and small shops sell a variety of beeswax wraps. Alternatively, there are lots of <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=beeswax+wraps">online options</a> to choose from.\n\n⢠Choose a long-lasting one. If the wrap needs to be replaced on an annual basis, then it is not really reducing much waste.\n\n⢠By applying pressure to the wrap, the heat from your hands allows you to mold the wrap to any container, dish, fruit, or vegetable.\n\n⢠Feeling crafty? You can also make your own wraps at home by following <a href="https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-make-a-reusable-diy-beeswax-wrap-5188126">this step-by-step guide</a>.',description:'Plastic wrap is a common household item that extends the life of food. Unfortunately <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/story-of-plastic-sticky-problem-of-plastic-wrap">it adds to the plastic pollution crisis, it is difficult to recycle, and it is made from harmful chemicals</a>.\n\nIt may be marketed as a recyclable product, but plastic wrap is difficult and expensive to recycle. Due to its thin and flimsy nature, it clogs machines, slowing down the recycling process. Most ends up in a landfill. When thrown in the landfill or incinerated, the chemicals in the plastic wrap create a chemical called <a href="https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/dioxins-and-their-effects-on-human-health">dioxin, which is highly toxic</a>. Plastic wrap that makes its way into the ocean can harm sea creatures who mistake the plastic for food.\n\nThankfully, there is a better alternative â beeswax wrap! Beeswax wraps are made from simple ingredients and materials. They are <a href="https://www.naturelyshop.com.au/tips/the-wonderful-benefits-of-beeswax-wraps-why-you-should-try-them-today/"> reusable, long-lasting, cost-efficient, and biodegradable</a>. Save money with this reusable option and leave plastic wrap in the past!',summary:"Plastic wrap is meant to be used once and then thrown away, which is a bit wasteful. Try beeswax wraps instead! They can be used over and over, and help cut down on plastic pollution.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://theecobrush.com/blogs/blog/5-benefits-of-storing-your-food-in-beeswax-wraps\n\nhttps://beehivefoodwraps.com/blogs/beehive-blog/why-beeswax-food-wraps\n\nhttps://www.tru.earth/What-is-Beeswax-Food-Wrap-And-Does-it-Really-Work",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@thisisjackcole'>Jack Cole</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recB1gciZVOdCxTUl",id:747,slug:"747-rent-out-your-car",title:"Rent out your car",categories:["Travel & Transport"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/747-rent-out-your-car",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Community & Institutions"],related:["receSMtAziUd1n5kS","recDfYn4gDQTTo9DG"],tips:"⢠<a href=\"https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=car+sharing+platform+near+me\">Search for car sharing platform options nearby</a> to find one that is a good fit.\n\n⢠Make sure to subscribe to a platform where you can rent out your car, rather than one that provides cars for renters.\n\n⢠When deciding whether to share your car, consider the money savings. Do some quick math and you will see that it adds up quickly. \n\n⢠Keep your car's availability up-to-date in the car-sharing app to avoid disappointed renters when you must cancel their booking because you need your car.\n\n⢠Adding a gentle and welcoming message to your car's profile will help get first-time renters who might become returning renters.\n\n⢠Keep your car clean so as to get a higher rating. It is a good excuse to keep it in better shape for your own enjoyment.\n\n⢠Have a leased car or a company car? Check the terms of your contract. Some lease companies encourage car sharing, while others discourage it.",description:'A car is a handy mode of transport because of its comfort and speed (if you are not stuck in traffic), but it also has some serious drawbacks. Internal
1combustion engine cars are notorious air and climate polluters. They take up a lot of valuable space, even when stationary. They also cost a lot of money. These are disadvantages that multiply every time a car is purchased.\n\nDid you know that a car is parked 90 percent of the time? That is quite expensive for hours of doing nothing in that parking spot after <a href="https://www.thebalancemoney.com/true-car-ownership-costs-4165784">accounting for the cost of buying a car, its maintenance, insurance, and energy to make it go.</a>\n\nHow about subscribing your car to a car-sharing platform in your local community? Sharing your car helps others access a car without having to buy one, which saves energy constructing new cars and space by preventing more cars from just sitting around. One shared car can replace five to 15 private cars! All while saving you serious money. \n\nCar-sharing platforms take care of the insurance for both you and the renter. These platforms ensure careful use of your car with a rating system for every booking where both renter and car owner are reviewed.\n\nConsider joining a car-sharing platform to rent out your car to save money and climate pollution today!',summary:"Owning a car comes with high costs and environmental impact, especially if you do not use it very often. Sharing your car through local platforms can reduce costs, environmental impact, and the need for parking spaces.",additionalResources:"https://www.transportenvironment.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Does-sharing-cars-really-reduce-car-use-June%202017.pdf",amountSavings:"$$$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@whykei">why kei</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recI9KhKNwd9sKLK4",id:750,slug:"750-save-by-not-pre-heating-the-oven",title:"Save by not pre-heating the oven",categories:["Energy","Home & Work","Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/750-save-by-not-pre-heating-the-oven",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð Save Energy","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec7amzmOWji20WKQ","recLLp78H2dvUgLv7","recNuDrDy018jBFLD"],tips:"⢠Experiment a little bit at first to figure out the exact time different items need to be in the oven. Naturally, it will be a little longer than the recommended cooking time alone.\n\n⢠After experimenting, if you find certain items do not cook as well (more the exception) then simply go back to your preheating approach for those.\n\nHere are a couple of advanced suggestions to try once you get the timing down:\n\n⢠Turn off the heat early and keep the oven closed. The temperature will not fall by much in the first minutes and you can use that heat without needing extra energy.\n\n⢠Heat rises, so using the upper baking rack makes use of the higher temperatures there. This can help you cook even faster or allow the oven temperature to be set lower. Keep a watchful eye on your dish the first time you try this. It can be surprising how much hotter the top part of your oven is than the middle.",description:"For some people, it is normal to preheat the oven before something is put in. However, if you think about it, it is a waste of energy and time because the oven is already generating heat while it warms to its target temperature. Why not use that heat to start cooking sooner? It does not have an impact on most food and gets them cooked faster.\n\nGo ahead and try putting whatever you are baking in the oven right away and then turn the heat on. You can easily save 10% of the heating time, if not more.",summary:"Are you wasting time and energy by preheating your oven? Many dishes will cook just fine starting in a cold oven. It does not impact most food and gets them cooked faster.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@donovan_valdivia'>Andrew Valdivia</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"reccrnmbwbR2sgU4D",id:751,slug:"751-throw-a-vegan-tasting-party",title:"Throw a vegan tasting party!",categories:["Food","Family & Community"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/751-throw-a-vegan-tasting-party",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Community & Institutions"],related:["recPr1UW3OZoo2tB5","recCgTFVLNQibeG7E"],tips:"⢠Pair up several co-hosts to pull off more variety. Try for at least one of you to be a long-time vegan, to know the tricks of the food markets.\n\n⢠Have a tasting contest for the milks, the cheeses, or some other foods with different varieties. Have people write down their preferences and then compare notes.\
1n\n⢠Naturally be aware of allergies, especially because many products are made with nuts. Make sure everyone knows what they are drinking, and eating in advance.\n\n⢠Have some foods out on the table that people may also not realize are actually vegan. French fries or candy, for instance, may get a laugh.\n\n⢠If you can hold this party in an open spot, where you would be comfortable with strangers coming, consider putting the party invite out to your neighborhood - expanding your reach. Some vegan enthusiasts hearing about it through the grapevine may bring items to share. Many will not come, but it still makes a positive impact on those who see it.\n\n⢠Approach a local community group for help with buying the ingredients; ask them to become co-sponsors of this neighborhood event. Perhaps even approach some local vegan restaurants to donate some ingredients and/or dishes.\n\n⢠Consider putting out some vegan cookbooks for folks to leaf through, plus some non-scary pamphlets. Be careful about information that will turn people off. The goal of this particular event is to focus on vegan = enjoyment.\n\n⢠Relax, enjoy, and share the tasting results and some pictures afterward!",description:'Have you tasted this? Wow!\n\nA great way to fight climate change is a personal climate step - to eat closer to the source of all food by eating mostly plants and avoiding meat and other animal products. <a href="https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/forests/issues/agribusiness/"> Animal agriculture is a leading cause of deforestation</a>, which throws climate pollution into the atmosphere. Not to mention <a href="https://awionline.org/content/inhumane-practices-factory-farms">it is often cruel</a>. \n\nSo what is perhaps the biggest barrier to eating vegan food? Probably a lack of familiarity or realization about what is vegan. How about throwing a vegan-ingredient tasting party? Help yourself, your friends, family, and even neighbors eat more plant-based, making even MORE of a climate impact.\n\nHere are some ideas for what a vegan-ingredient-tasting party might consist of:\n\nFirst - A selection of different types of ingredients for folks to just, well, taste. To know what to focus on with friends, informally survey beforehand on what friends wanted to try. That might include plant milk, cheese and crackers, bean dishes, and plant meats. Many people have likely tried seitans, tempahs, or mushroom-based meatballs.\n\nSecond - A selection of more complex dishes to show the actual tasty possibilities. Consider asking others who tend to eat plant-based to bring a favorite dish as well to spread the burden.\n\nThird - A cooking demonstration to help people learn how to cook with items they have limited experience with, such as tofu.\n\nEncourage open conversation and sharing experiences. Talk about how these foods can easily fit into daily meals and discuss tips for making plant-based eating more accessible and enjoyable. By creating a fun and educational environment, you can help inspire lasting changes that benefit the planet, animals, and health. Every small step counts and this party could be the start of something much bigger!',summary:"Try throwing a vegan-ingredient tasting party to introduce friends and family to plant-based dishes and spread the positive impact of eating more plant-based.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@victoriakosmo'>Victoria Shes</a> on <a href=\"https://unsplash.com/\">Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFloV99G6qfvWYR",id:757,slug:"757-learn-about-and-support-fungi",title:"Learn about and support fungi",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Outside"],earthPoints:40,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/757-learn-about-and-support-fungi",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Community & Institutions","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recukRmfuJCRHpuk2","recwwjSgKmQB2CL3u","recmvIjgQ3iqzMb1U"],tips:'First Easy Steps:\n\n⢠Learn some fun facts about fungi. Visit <a href="https://thinkfungi.org/fun-facts/">this site</a> to learn more.\n\n⢠Connect with your local mycological (fungi) association and the global online club at <a href="https://thinkfungi.org/">Think Fungi</a>.\n\n⢠Watch the film <a href="https://fantasticfungi.com/">Fantastic Fungi</a>.\n\n⢠Grow your own mushrooms. You can find kits locally or <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=grow+your+own+mushroom+kit">
1online</a>.\n\nMedium Steps:\n\n⢠Read the book <a href="https://www.merlinsheldrake.com/entangled-life">Entangled Life by Merlin Sheldrake</a>.\n\n⢠Get out and begin mushroom hunting. Fungi can be found in woods, parks, deserts, and the city.\n\n⢠Pass on the word. Tell others about the easy steps above to help share knowledge. Help get others started and maybe they will fall in love with fungi.\n\n⢠Donate to nonprofits that help conserve and protect fungi around the world.\n\nAdvanced Steps:\n\n⢠Begin documenting the fungi you find in apps like <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/">iNaturalist</a> and <a href="https://mushroomobserver.org/">Mushroom Observer</a>.\n\n⢠Take part in competitions hosted by <a href="https://fundis.org/">The Fungal Diversity Survey</a> and <a href="https://thinkfungi.org/">Think Fungi</a>.\n\n⢠Become an active promoter of fungi conservation and research by writing your political representative, asking your local university to provide courses in mycology, and giving presentations about fungi at schools and libraries.',description:"There are millions of species of fungi and the majority are still undiscovered and unresearched. A fungus is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms that includes microorganisms such as yeasts and molds, as well as the more familiar mushrooms. Abundant worldwide, most fungi are inconspicuous because of their small and cryptic lifestyles in soil.\n\nIn the last decade, more attention has been put towards fungi and the information has been staggering. As the predecessor to both plants (flora) and animals (fauna), fungi have remarkable characteristics and coping mechanisms. They have the potential to consume petroleum products (filtering them from waterways), consume heavy metals (remediating toxic waste sites), consume plastic, grow new brain cells in humans (neurogenesis), and provide natural solutions to a multitude of other critical concerns like fertilizer replacements and pest control.\n\nWe have just begun to scratch the surface of what fungi can do, but we need more research and conservation of fungi. We have no idea how many species have already gone extinct and our minimal research attempts have indicated many species are endangered. Any one of these could hold a life-saving solution.\n\nTo conserve and protect fungi is to conserve plants, animals, biodiversity, rainforests, tundra, and all other components of our natural world. Check out the tips to learn more about fungi and how you can go even further to help build our knowledge of these important and mysterious organisms!",summary:"Fungi are incredibly misunderstood, and often get a bit of a bad rap. But mushrooms are capable of so many incredible things, including cleaning up some of our messes. Learn more about how you can support this incredible group of organisms.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@hans_veth'>Hans Veth</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recDmEiLGaUmSFHks",id:758,slug:"758-use-eco-friendly-jewelry",title:"Use eco-friendly jewelry",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/758-use-eco-friendly-jewelry",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð§ Preserve Water","ð² Conserve Forests","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recX8Qe2CB9acwtEH"],tips:'⢠So how do you go about buying used jewelry? A good place to start is with <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=buy+used+jewelry">an online search</a> to find good websites or stores near you. It has never been easier to find vintage options.\n\n⢠Look for pieces that have been made using recycled materials, such as gemstones that have been reused or metals that have been melted and reformed.\n\n⢠Consider pieces made with <a href="https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/simulants-moissanite-and-lab-grown-diamonds/">lab-grown jewels</a>. Because it is <a href="https://ecocult.com/ethical-sustainable-ecofriendly-recycled-fine-jewelry-brands-gold-silver-lab-grown-diamonds/">difficult to ensure natural diamonds are mined ethically and sustainably</a>, lab-grown options make a good option with lower environmental and social impact.\n\n⢠Want to get creative? <a href="https://www.marthastewart.com/7847881/how-make-your-own-jewelry">Make your own jewelry</a>
1 by using recycled or locally sourced materials.',description:'Jewelry can be beautiful statement pieces we incorporate into our wardrobe, whether they are earrings, rings, necklaces, bracelets, or cufflinks. But have you ever considered the environmental impact of your jewelry?\n\nMost pieces of jewelry start with mining, where <a href="https://gemstoneguru.com/have-it-made-jewelry-making-processes/">metal ore and gemstones are extracted from the ground</a>. That means <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Environmental_impact_of_mining">mines can result in deforestation, soil, and water contamination, and erosion</a>. Plus there is the <a href="https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/sustainable-and-ethical-jewelry/">greenhouse gas emissions, ecosystem loss, and large amounts of waste</a> to name a few impacts.\n\nThe best way to avoid the negative side of mining for jewelry is to buy used. The pollution created by making these vintage items has already happened. Plus it is a great item to buy used because a quality jewelry item lasts generations.\n\nAlso with shoppers becoming more eco-conscious, jewelry companies have started to shift their practices to become more sustainable. Companies can provide sustainable jewelry by <a href="https://www.consciouslifeandstyle.com/what-is-eco-friendly-ethical-jewelry/">using recycled materials, using non-toxic washes and polishes, investing in production methods that do not pollute the environment, and using eco-friendly packaging</a>. Naturally, be cautious of greenwashing claims and be skeptical that new jewelry is truly created sustainably.',summary:"Choose vintage or pre-owned jewelry to reduce mining pollution. Buying secondhand gives pieces a new life and lessens the demand for newly mined materials. You can also look for options made from recycled materials or lab-grown gems.",additionalResources:"https://formnutrition.com/inform/why-you-should-buy-sustainable-jewellery/",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/selective-focus-photography-of-person-wearing-three-bangles-1191531/'>Photo by Godisable Jacob</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEz45BJOtmYtBIY",id:762,slug:"762-ditch-plastic-straws",title:"Ditch plastic straws",categories:["Stuff","Food"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/762-ditch-plastic-straws",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect the Oceans"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Friends & Family"],related:["recGwksfmMrrudPYG","recQegFLMFzbJyZ21","recrKt22Poo2qdS8N","recW9KaitubY5oJNq"],tips:"⢠Refuse plastic straws. When ordering drinks, request that you are not given a straw. If you are given a plastic straw anyway, you can always give it back.\n\n⢠Still want to use a straw? There are lots of eco-friendly alternatives available.\n\n- Steel straws â Rust-proof and chemical-free.\n- Silicone straws â Great for drinks that are hot or cold.\n- Bamboo straws â An organic and biodegradable option.\n- Paper straws â These straws are available at some fast-food establishments and restaurants. However, they are not as sturdy as other plastic straw alternatives and are single-use.",description:'Single-use plastics play a much more significant role than many realize. Some of us use <a href="https://www.statista.com/chart/24874/single-use-plastic-waste-generated-per-person-in-selected-countries/">up to half our body weight in plastic every year</a>. Then it ends up going on to pollute our land and water for potentially 100s of years.\n\n<a href="https://www.plasticpollutioncoalition.org/thelastplasticstraw">Billions of plastic straws are used around the world on a daily basis</a>. Though they may seem harmless, they are made from <a href="https://ssec.si.edu/stemvisions-blog/eternal-plastics">polypropylene, which is a polymer that is made from propylene, a type of fossil fuel</a>. Plus, they are also <a href="https://www.ourlaststraw.org/facts-figures"> one of the top 10 contributors to ocean plastic waste worldwide</a>. To make things worse, when you recycle straws, most end up in landfills because typical recycling machines cannot process smaller items like straws.\n\nReduce your plastic waste by substituting plastic straws for eco-friendly options or by cutting straws out of your plastic diet altogether!',summary:"Single-use plastics such as drinking straws are choking our landfills, rivers, and oceans and can take hundreds of years to break down. Consider a reusable straw instead or ditch the straw altogether!",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:"https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/sustainable-summer-tips-sunscreen-plastic-straw/\n\nhttps://spoonuniversity.com/healthier/why-you-should-stop-using-plastic-straws\n\nhttps://www.eatthis.com/plastic-straws-downsides/\n\nhttps://www.treehugger.com/why-you-should-kick-plastic-straw-habit-4867958\n\nhttps://www.ecofriendlyhabits.com/why-are-straws-bad/ ",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/pink-and-green-pipe-90911//'>Photo by David McEachan</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recPqMCQCiG0ZXgbp",id:763,slug:"763-host-a-sustainable-bbq",title:"Host a sustainable BBQ",categories:["Food","Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/763-host-a-sustainable-bbq",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð² Conserve Forests"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family","Household"],related:["recc6wYUKC44pNrUb","rec7amzmOWji20WKQ","recM4Tnp3wKwKBdyQ","recvV7yUxSJvciNX7","recxH7XK36zO56CRt","recEb5reGCF6UjW9f","recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","re
1csdftuDVE1iANHP","reccrnmbwbR2sgU4D"],tips:'⢠Not ready to give up meat completely just yet? No problem! Swap out the beef for pork or chicken instead as less impactful options.\n\n⢠There is no shortage of <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=vegetarian+and+vegan+bbq+recipes">ideas online</a> to help you build the menu for your next BBQ.\n\n⢠Source the food itself from local, regenerative farms if possible.\n\n⢠You will learn as you go and incorporate new and better ways to have a BBQ. Do not feel like it needs to be perfect. Progress, not perfection!',description:'There are many approaches to making a barbecue (BBQ) more sustainable and enjoyable.\n\nFirst, as we have highlighted in other actions, transitioning to a more plant-based diet is one of the most effective ways to slow climate change, rein in habitat loss, and regenerate the health of our planet. This is extremely relevant when talking about BBQs.\n\nFor example, <a href="https://forkranger.com/how-to-have-a-sustainable-bbq-without-feeling-guilty/">cooking 10 meat-based hamburgers (1.5 kg) can generate over 40 kg of CO2 emissions</a>. By comparison, grilling 1.5 kg of bell peppers filled with cheese generates less than 10 kg of CO2 emissions. Beef has the largest impact, so when planning your next BBQ, consider skipping the cow or even all meat from the menu.\n\nSwitching from charcoal to gas cooking is another way to reduce your climate pollution. Or even better, make the <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=electric+bbq+grill">switch to an electric grill</a>, which is becoming more common.\n\nIf you really want to try something new, then <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=solar+oven">consider a solar oven</a>. It takes a little longer, but the energy is free and it becomes a topic of conversation.\n\nAlso consider the plates, tableware, tablecloths, napkins, and decor. Avoid single-use paper and plastic where you can, and head towards re-usable utensils and plates. It saves you a bit of money and makes for a classier get-together as well!',summary:"Barbecues are a great way to get together with friends and family, but they can have a significant environmental footprint. Consider making them more sustainable and enjoyable by trying fun new foods and ditching single-use utensils.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@vincent_keiman_nl">Vincent Keiman</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmCE34OFb3obVPk",id:768,slug:"768-put-up-blackout-curtains",title:"Put up blackout curtains",categories:["Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/768-put-up-blackout-curtains",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recLB5GTn4LBDXaHU","recbxKKTMMNP2Co8y","recPuuLDqN9b9CBWt","recmaUKnY6ZoS0GCA","recVDsMK3snsbzdVl","recGpB3XuOPfCWOmV"],tips:'⢠When planning where to put up your new blackout curtains, think about the areas in your home that warm up the most when the sun is up.\n\n⢠You can probably turn your current curtains into blackout ones by adding blackout fabric to them. There are <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=how+to+make+your+own+blackout+curtains">tutorials online that explain how to do that</a> or your local tailor can help.',description:'To better maintain the temperature in your home and make it comfortable, consider installing <a href="https://greennettletextiles.com/blackout-fabric/">blackout curtains</a>. As the world heats up from burning too much oil and gas, these curtains keep your home cooler on hot days and help retain heat on colder ones. It is a nice way to save energy and money.\n\nRegular curtains are usually made using one layer of fabric, which is ineffective in keeping out the sun\'s heat or cold air. Blackout curtains are made of multiple layers of fabric, including one layer designed to block light. They also trap air between the different layers of fabric, acting as a buffer between indoor and outdoor temperatures.\n\nBy blocking out the sun and keeping your home cool, blackout curtains can also help you sleep better <a href="https://www.spinandweave.com/blogs/transform-with-fabric/5-ways-in-which-blackout-curtains-are-a-sustainable-solution">by reducing stimulus from light early in the morning or late at night</a>. They can also protect your furniture! By limiting the amount of sun you let into your home, furniture will not fade and discolor as quickly.',summary:"With hotter summers and rising energy costs, it can be hard to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home. Installing blackout curtains can help by blocking the sun's rays and keeping your home cooler. Plus, they help retain heat on colder days.",additionalResources:"https://www.buildingtalk.com/the-environmental-benefits-of-blackout-blinds-and-curtains/\nhttps://www.greenlivingtips.com/articles/saving-energy-with-blackout-curtains.html",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@milinjohn">Milin John</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec6v27ZDL1BwzqrX",id:770,slug:"770-change-your-asthma-inhaler",title:"Change your asthma inhaler",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:25,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/770-change-your-asthma-inhaler",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"5",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recMwfmMzQca62nQM","recPUMZjfH3OBJlhR","re
1cxH7XK36zO56CRt"],tips:"⢠Do not change your asthma inhaler without talking to your doctor first. Most medical professionals believe that most patients can make the switch, but some may not be able to use dry powder inhalers.\n\n⢠Switching to a new type of inhaler can be complicated, as it involves learning a different technique, so it should be done with support from a professional.\n\n⢠Regardless of which asthma inhaler you currently use, return the used-up ones to your local pharmacy for environmentally safe disposal or recycling.",description:'Did you know that the pollution created by asthma inhalers can be <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/health-50215011">as significant as eating meat</a>?\n\nTypically, asthma inhalers are aerosol spray inhalers â also known as puffers or pressurized metered-dose inhalers. They contain potent greenhouse gases â called hydrofluorocarbons â which are used to propel the medicine out of the inhaler. The problem is that these gases are up to 3,000 times more potent at overheating the planet than carbon dioxide!\n\nThe solution is fairly simple â more environmentally friendly inhalers that contain no propellant. They are called dry powder inhalers. There are many different types, but generally, you press a button or lever to load a capsule or twist a dial to get the inhaler ready. The medicine is released when you breathe in. Plus, you can see how many doses you have left.\n\nThey are more readily available in some areas than others but are proven tools that do the same job without all the pollution. Look into making the switch today.',summary:"Standard aerosol asthma inhalers contain HFCs, a greenhouse gas 3,000 times more potent than COâ! Switching to a dry powder inhaler can significantly decrease the environmental impact of your inhalers.",additionalResources:"https://www.nice.org.uk/news/article/nice-encourages-use-of-greener-asthma-inhalers\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng80/resources/inhalers-for-asthma-patient-decision-aid-pdf-6727144573\n\nhttps://erj.ersjournals.com/content/58/suppl_65/PA3399",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/coltsfan-5936078/">Bob Williams</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recbZ37suKx4ILbZQ",id:777,slug:"777-use-sustainability-apps",title:"Use sustainability apps",categories:["Stuff","Advocacy & Choice","Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/777-use-sustainability-apps",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð¥ Reduce Emissions","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice","ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","â³ Saves Time","ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð©ð½âð Build Community Resilience","ð² Conserve Forests","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ðï¸ Reduce Flooding","ðð½ Reduce Noise Pollution","âï¸ Improve Air Quality","ð Protect Wildlife","ð Protect the Oceans","ð¡ Reduce Light Pollution","ð± Protect and Rebuild Soil Health"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recfKoNxBwz4UGs2h","reckASkV5dmw7uyKu","recnMaCpxrFHVG2nH","recOTx73tYe2CAIYU","rec7OJQlq23vKevfr","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","recnp9enyjYEQy0oh","recHlwfwXGrBy1KLd","recHolPVs5U0N4c2G","recojFBNwoKShcwqh"],description:'These days there are apps to assist us with every aspect of our lives, from reminder apps, fitness apps, apps that tell us when to water our plants, how to invest, etc. Other than Earth Hero (thank you for using!), many apps target specific aspects of the climate crisis, like plastic pollution, food waste, and recycling.\n\nTake a look at the following curated list of apps that we think you might be interested in! Please note that not all of these apps work in all countries.\n\nNews\n⢠<a href="https://app.wedonthavetime.org/posts/0dffd008-9a9e-4926-9fd7-e564263a0259">We Donât Have Time</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://unfccc.int/about-us/press-and-media/un-climate-change-mobile-app">UN Climate Change</a> (iOS & Android)\n\nFood & Drink\n⢠<a href="https://forkranger.com/">Fork Ranger</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://toogoodtogo.com">Too Good To Go</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://quitmeatapp.carrd.co/">Quit Meat</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://findtap.com/">Tap</a> (iOS & Android) \n\nStuff\n⢠<a href="https://olioex.com/">Olio</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="http://buynothingproject.org/">Buy Nothing Project</a> (iOS & Android)\n\nPlastic pollution\n⢠<a href="https://www.beatthemicrobead.org/download-btmb-app/">Beat The Micro Bead (BTMB)</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://mylittleplasticfootprint.org/">My Little Plastic Footprint (MLPF)</a> (iOS & Android)\n\nRecycling\n⢠<a href="https://earth911.com/irecycle/">iRecycle</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://www.scrappzero.com/products/mobile-app">Scrapp</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://link.horizonapp.uk/RKxq">the Horizon app</a> (iOS & Android)\n\nAir quality\n⢠<a href="https://plumelabs.com/en/air/">Plume</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://www.iqair.com">IQAir AirVisual</a> (Web)\n\nEducation\n⢠<a href="https://climate.nasa.gov/">NASA Climate Change</a> (Web)\n⢠<a href="https://climatescience.org">Climate Science</a> (iOS & Android)\n⢠<a href="https://www.worldwildlife.org/pages/explore-wwf-free-rivers-a-new-augmented-reality-app">WWF Free Rivers</a> (Apple & Android)\n\nDo you know of a great climate action or environmental app that should be on this list? Send us an email at <
1a href="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected]</a>.',summary:"There are many apps available to help with climate action, from plastic pollution to waste reduction. Try some sustainability apps to take action and make a positive impact on our environment and improve your life.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jonasleupe">Jonas Leupe</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recTOXuS0KXLtJ8nL",id:780,slug:"780-buy-food-that-is-soon-to-expire",title:"Buy food that is soon-to-expire",categories:["Food"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/780-buy-food-that-is-soon-to-expire",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["recU9rqOZNWxlyXT1","recnMaCpxrFHVG2nH","recDC5bUmbwqeR24a"],tips:"⢠Keep your options open when creating a list. Keep it vague for the items that your store often discounts so that you can swap in the items that fit your recipes.\n\n⢠Does your store have day-old bakery and bread items? Maybe you will not be able to eat these right away, but many of these foods freeze well, so you can eat them later when you are ready.\n\n⢠Planning to make something that requires heating or toasting bread? In this case, buying bread closer to stale does not matter. After heating, the texture and taste end up being the same regardless of the freshness.",description:"When grocery shopping, keep an eye out for items with a short expiration date. Buying these and using them quickly before they go bad will help create less waste, as the supermarket will have less to throw out. Products can often be used well after the best-before date. If it looks, smells, and tastes normal, it is likely not spoiled.\n\nMany supermarkets sell food items soon-to-expire at a reduced price, and keeping an eye out for the often red labels indicating a lower price can save you a lot of money! Some supermarkets even have specific shelves where they gather all items that are about to expire. A literal gold mine! Happy hunting and enjoy discovering some new things to try.",summary:"Grocery stores have to throw away massive amounts of food that are past their expiration date. By choosing foods that are close to expiring, you not only help to reduce waste, but can generally save a lot of money too! ",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@socialtyvr'>Tara Clark</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rectf0ADKiQ5Gu3M4",id:808,slug:"808-help-elect-key-climate-leaders",title:"Help elect key climate leaders",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:45,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/808-help-elect-key-climate-leaders",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðï¸ System Change","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ââï¸ Climate Justice"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["recFlOl6qDJHRKQ83","reco9DwRg9WPQ5Sm8","recIMADF27g28M5qp"],tips:"⢠Consider making a monthly donation to the Climate Slate. It saves you from needing to think about helping out again in the future. Set it and forget it! This also helps the candidates plan better. Naturally, you can cancel whenever you like.",description:'To avoid the worst impacts of climate change, the US must be a leader. Yet, despite all the focus on the federal government, <a href="https://www.bbhub.io/dotorg/sites/28/2019/12/Accelerating-Americas-Pledge.pdf">state and local elected officials are responsible for making 70 percent of US emissions reduction targets a reality.</a>.\n\nThere are 500,000 local elected officials across the US, so how can we help speed this up? Naturally, you can start by helping support climate leaders in your area.\n\nBeyond that, what about the rest of our great country? There is a website called <a href="https://www.climateslate.com/">Climate Slate</a> that identifies the elections with the highest potential impact to address climate change.\n\nIf you like, you can check out the list of <a href="https://www.climateslate.com/candidates?filter-by-Priority=Top+Priority">top priority candidates</a> and donate to individual campaigns. Alternatively, with a single donation to the Climate Slate, you can support key races that will move the needle most on climate action and environmental justice!',summary:"Fighting climate change is everyone's responsibility, but some people have more power to enact change than others. Consider donating to the most climate-friendly candidates in every election to help elect more climate champions.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recYDonAKcOA2WGSj",id:827,slug:"827-dispose-of-packaging-properly",title:"Dispose of packaging properly",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/827-dispose-of-packaging-properly",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ðï¸ Reduce Waste","ð Protect the Oceans","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Household"],related:["recEz45BJOtmYtBIY","recrKt22Poo2qdS8N","recdWJoaYjOUPcvUR"],description:'Recycling is great. However, it can be challenging knowing what is recyclable or not. Very few people believe that <a href="https://www.circularonline.co.uk/news/new-research-shows-public-still-confused-about-recycling/">recycling labels on products are clear</a>.\n\nDid you know there is a free app that helps with that? With <a href="https://link.horizonapp.uk/RKxq">the Horizon app</a> you simply scan the barcode of a product and it tells you about the packaging, whether it is recyclable, the ingredients of the product, and their impact on the environment.\n\n<a href="https://link.horizonapp.uk/RKxq">Download the Horizon app</a> to lower your waste footprint and be a part of the movement for better ways of living. It is a great way to get accurate, local recycling instructions!',summary:"It can be really challenging to know how to properly dispose of different packaging. The Horizon app can help tell you if it is recyclable or not.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/thedigitalartist-202249/">Pete Linforth</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recJSNdjFNkv51W71",id:831,slug:"831-keep-your-cat-inside",title:"Keep your cat inside",categories:["Outside","Home & Work"],earthPoints:15,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/831-keep-your-cat-inside",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec1za8OtMZPvf8RB","re
1c9TiKvXIupDs1NQ","recwbuPlWHgLCPvOi"],tips:"⢠It is possible to let your cat outside on a leash or lead. Even take them for walks!\n\n⢠You can also build a catio â an outdoor enclosure for your pet to hang out in.\n\n⢠If you do decide to let your cat wander, be sure to attach a bell to its collar. This will make it much harder for them to sneak up on their prey.\n\n⢠Pet overpopulation is a huge problem, so if your pet is ever outside, be sure to get them fixed to avoid unwanted litters of kittens.\n\n⢠If your cat has trouble adjusting to being inside and is scratching your furniture, you can trim their nails to remove the sharp point and reduce damage.",description:'Did you know that house cats are the number one cause of non-natural bird deaths globally? It is estimated that cats kill <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms2380">over 2 billion birds and 12 billion small mammals every year</a>.\n\nThat is absolutely mind-boggling. But simply by keeping your beloved pet inside instead of letting them roam free, you can help reduce the number of fatalities experienced by local wildlife. A boost that many populations desperately need right now. And as a plus, indoor cats tend to <a href="https://www.vetinfo.com/indoor-outdoor-cat-life-expectancy.html">live healthier, longer lives</a> than their outdoor counterparts.',summary:"Cats are the number one cause of non-natural bird deaths globally. Help reduce the pressure on native wildlife by keeping your cat inside.",additionalResources:"https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/abs/10.1146/annurev-ecolsys-112414-054133",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/gray-cat-near-gray-vase-with-sunflower-674580/'>Photo by Cats Coming</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec1za8OtMZPvf8RB",id:843,slug:"843-support-trap-neuter-return",title:"Support trap, neuter, return",categories:["Outside","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/843-support-trap-neuter-return",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð Protect Wildlife"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household","Community & Institutions"],related:["recJSNdjFNkv51W71","rec9TiKvXIupDs1NQ","recapynl9NddotLZ9"],tips:'⢠<a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=trap+neuter+return+programs+near+me">Search whether there are any TNR programs near you</a> to familiarize yourself. That way, you can contact them if you discover a stray or feral cat or a colony. It is also good to know if the topic comes up with others.\n\n⢠Be an advocate for TNR programs in general. Thank government officials and groups for their work in this area. Give support for adequate resourcing.\n\n⢠If you live in an area without a professional TNR program â and you want to help the local stray/feral cat population â consider doing TNR yourself if you have the means and the time. <a href="https://www.foundanimals.org/6-steps-trap-neuter-release-success/">Here is a quick guide for DIY TNR</a>. Have a plan and do your research before starting!\n\n⢠If you are going to do TNR on your own, consider doing it while temperatures are not freezing outside. The catsâ hair will be shaved for surgery, which could affect their health in colder weather.',description:'Did you know that there are an estimated <a href="https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/how-many-cats-are-there-in-the-world.html">150 million</a> free-roaming cats in the world? And that cats are capable of having 20 kittens per year? <a href="https://pawsomeadvice.com/pets/stray-animal-statistics/">Only a tiny percent of stray cats are spayed or neutered</a>.\n\nThis is a major issue as it is estimated that cats kill <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/ncomms2380">over 2 billion birds and 12 billion small mammals every year</a> and are the number one cause of non-natural bird deaths.\n\nThat is why it is so essential for cities and individuals to support Trap, Neuter, Return (TNR) programs. These programs limit the ability of these animals to reproduce to such an extent that it strains local wildlife. <a href="https://www.felineresearch.org/post/issue-brief-feral-cat-health">TNR also helps improve the quality of life of these cats</a>!',summary:"Invasive feral cats are the number one cause of non-natural bird deaths every year. Support trap, neuter, return programs to help limit their numbers in the wild and reduce pressure on native wildlife.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"Photo by umit ozbek from Pexels: https://www.pexels.com/photo/white-and-black-long-fur-cat-140134/"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recotRe42I3Kdjfs1",id:859,slug:"859-use-sustainable-cosmetics",title:"Use sustainable cosmetics",categories:["Stuff"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/859-use-sustainable-cosmetics",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð§ Preserve Water","ð Protect the Oceans","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ðï¸ Reduce Waste"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recGqO9JFJmmPLPcw","recn4fHhxsdu34V1J"],tips:'⢠The most sustainable cosmetic product is the one you do not buy or use at all. Every beauty product, no matter how eco-friendly, requires resources to produce. You look amazing, and remember, there is an army of marketers out there trying to convince you that you need to buy more stuff.\n\n⢠If you do need a little something, investigate brands and products to ensure they are genuinely eco-friendly and not just engaging in greenwashing. Read the product ingredients! Look for c
1osmetics that use natural or organic ingredients. Check the product labels for certifications like:\n\n- <a href="https://www.ecocert.com/">Ecocert</a>,\n- <a href="https://www.cosmos-standard.org/">COSMOS</a>\n- <a href="https://www.leapingbunny.org/">Leaping Bunny</a>, which indicate adherence to sustainable and ethical practices.\n\n⢠Opt for Eco-Friendly Packaging - Choose makeup products that use biodegradable or recyclable packaging materials, such as paper or glass. Avoid products with excessive packaging or microbeads, which contribute to plastic pollution. Refill the product bottles where possible instead of replacing them.\n\n⢠Proper Disposal - Dispose of expired or unused makeup through proper recycling channels or return programs offered by some brands. Avoid pouring cosmetics down the drain, as this can contaminate waterways. Instead, use designated disposal facilities for hazardous waste.',description:'The beauty industry is a mega-global business and a significant contributor to environmental issues due to excessive packaging and the associated deforestation and waste. Plus there are questionable ethical practices.\n\nEach year, <a href="https://www.independent.co.uk/climate-change/news/beauty-industry-plastic-pollution-environment-climate-change-cosmetics-a8697951.html">the industry generates hundreds of billions of units of packaging waste</a>, including plastics, paper, glass, and metals, which often end up in landfills.\n\nAdditionally, the beauty industry contributes to environmental issues such as deforestation, pesticide use, and reliance on oil-based fertilizers through its demand for certain agricultural commodities. Ingredients like palm oil, prevalent in cosmetics, are <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_and_environmental_impact_of_palm_oil">major drivers of deforestation</a>, especially in Southeast Asia. The cultivation of crops for cosmetic ingredients often involves substantial pesticide application and synthetic fertilizers derived from fossil fuels. These chemicals can contaminate soil and water, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agricultural_pollution">posing risks to ecosystems and human health</a>. \n\nCosmetic ingredients also pose environmental and health risks. Many cosmetics contain harmful chemicals such as parabens, phthalates, and o-phenylenediamine, which are linked to health issues like <a href="https://www.ewg.org/the-toxic-twelve-chemicals-and-contaminants-in-cosmetics">hormonal disruptions, cancer, and skin irritation.</a> The use of synthetic fragrances adds to these concerns with their potential to cause allergic reactions and other health problems.\n\nChemicals in cosmetics can pose another environmental concern. When washed off, these chemicals <a href="https://www.news.com.au/technology/environment/debris-balls-found-on-sydneys-northern-beaches-identified-as-largely-soap-scum-cosmetics/news-story/7f875a5ba1c862e14a5c2143b69fe806">enter our water systems</a>, flowing into lakes, rivers, and water supplies. This can damage wildlife and aquatic plants, affecting entire ecosystems.\n\nThe social side of the beauty industry can also be c
1oncerning, with unethical practices like <a href="https://borgenproject.org/indias-child-labor/">child labor in mica mining</a> for cosmetic products. Mica, a natural silicate mineral dust, is commonly used to add shine to products, but its mining often involves child labor, particularly in India.\n\nDespite these challenges, consumers can make more sustainable choices by opting for eco-friendly makeup products or cutting back on these products and saving some money. Look for cosmetics with natural, organic ingredients that are free from harmful chemicals. Choose brands that use sustainable packaging materials like paper/recycled paper, recycled plastic, or glass. Supporting cruelty-free products is also crucial,<a href="https://www.humanesociety.org/all-our-fights/ending-cosmetics-animal-testing">as animal testing remains a practice in the industry</a>.\n\nBy being mindful of the environmental impact of beauty products and making conscious purchasing decisions, you can help reduce waste, promote ethical practices, and protect both your health and the planet.',summary:"Toxic beauty products can damage both our health and our environment. Skip unnecessary cosmetics to reduce waste, protect ecosystems, and minimize resource use. When buying, opt for eco-friendly, sustainable options.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@anniespratt">Annie Spratt</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recmK4y9Nc1ZREOOu",id:861,slug:"861-take-a-break-from-bad-news",title:"Take a break from bad news",categories:["Resilience"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/861-take-a-break-from-bad-news",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"3",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","â³ Saves Time"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual"],tips:'⢠Subscribe to a positive environmental news outlet like <a href="https://happyeconews.com">Happy Eco News</a> or, if you feel like you need a pick-me-up at any time, simply <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?method=index&q=positive+environmental+news">search online</a> for positive environmental news to get the latest and greatest from a wide range of sources.\n\n⢠Trick your algorithms online. Purposefully search for positive things and then engage and \'like\' those stories more than the negative ones.\n\n⢠Set a timer to limit your time reading or watching the news. Consider avoiding it completely first thing in the morning or right before you go to bed.\n\n⢠Check in with Earth Hero occasionally and see how the community has grown and how much climate pollution we have reduced together. You are not alone!\n\n⢠Take an actual break from the environmental crisis (good and bad) on a regular basis. Go outside, read an unrelated book, or have friends and family over for a game night. Even though we are in the midst of a major crisis, being plugged into it all the time will only result in you burning out. It took us a long time to get into this mess, and although we have a relatively short time frame to make some drastic changes, we will be in this fight for the long run. Take some time to enjoy your life. Others will respond better to you then, too.',description:'The world is full of doom-and-gloom news stories, including the state of the environment. When we are constantly bombarded by bad news, it can either <a href="https://bpspsychub.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.2044-8295.1997.tb02622.x">give us anxiety, feeling like we have the weight of the world on our shoulders, or it can make us shut down completely</a>.\n\nIt does not help that for-profit news and social media companies are incentivized to draw you in by dramatizing the bad. <a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/two-takes-depression/201106/if-it-bleeds-it-leads-understanding-fear-based-media">Humans tend to engage more with negative stories, and that means you watch and scroll more</a>, leading to higher advertising revenue for them.\n\nThis is not healthy, and your thoughts may turn to, \'Humanity is doomed anyway, so why bother doing anything about it?\' This is not an accurate or helpful response to the current situation.\n\nSo, take a break from bad news. This might mean cutting back on news, taking a break from it completely, or intentionally seeking out good news to get a more accurate perspective. This is not about sticking our heads in the sand and ignoring what is going on, but rather about not letting it dominate our lives <a href="https://www.psych
1ologytoday.com/us/blog/your-neurochemical-self/201410/stop-traumatizing-yourself-watching-the-news">to the point of traumatizing ourselves</a>.\n\nAnd when we feel better, we are more likely to take meaningful action to create a better world.',summary:"Staying informed should not come at the cost of your mental health. Regularly take a break from bad news to re-charge and keep yourself from burning out.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@robmulally">Rob Mulally</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recirJG2BCDUx9F3E",id:894,slug:"894-watch-the-climate-and-energy-course",title:"Watch the Climate & Energy course",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Resilience"],earthPoints:10,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396308/actions/894-watch-the-climate-and-energy-course.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recOTx73tYe2CAIYU","recojFBNwoKShcwqh","recE4R2XqcV09RKsM","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","recLTpXNXSYa49aRV"],tips:"⢠Watch one episode each day or week, or begin with the topics that interest you most.\n\n⢠Consider inviting family members or friends to watch with you, either virtually or in person. Twelve episodes may be too many for one get-together, so consider watching the first episode or choosing specific topics that interest everyone.\n\n⢠After each video, reflect on something you learned, a question you still have, or an action you might take.",description:'If you want to learn more about how climate change is affecting our planet, then the Crash Course Climate & Energy series is for you!\n\nAcross 12 episodes, <a href="https://www.drmjackson.com/about-m-jackson">Dr. M Jackson</a>, a geographer and glaciologist, explores climate change, how burning fossil fuels causes it, decarbonizing industries, energy storage, carbon neutrality, carbon capture, climate justice, international climate policy, and how we can make a difference.\n\nThe Climate & Energy series is available for free on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8dPuuaLjXtMx8ZIQV9
1NduU_HFjDwykuj">YouTube</a>.\n\nEducators who need offline access in school settings where YouTube is unavailable can request free downloads through the <a href="https://thecrashcourse.com/downloads/">downloads page</a>.\n\nNo matter where you are in your climate education journey, this series is a great way to expand your knowledge and better understand both the challenges and solutions.',summary:"Want to learn more about climate change? The 12-part Crash Course Climate & Energy series explores climate science, climate change because of fossil fuels, energy solutions, and how we can make a difference.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec8wmp2HGgI4FKy1",id:902,slug:"902-follow-earth-hero-on-social-media",title:"Follow Earth Hero on social media",categories:["Family & Community","Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/902-follow-earth-hero-on-social-media",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","â³ Saves Time","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],tips:'Check out Earth Hero on your favorite social media sites:\n\n<a href="https://www.instagram.com/earth_hero_org/">Instagram</a>\n<a href="https://twitter.com/EarthHeroOrg">Twitter X</a>\n<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/earth-hero">LinkedIn</a>\n<a href="https://www.facebook.com/earthheroorg/">Facebook</a>\n<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@earthheroorg">TikTok</a>\n\nThank you for being a part of the community!',description:"Connect with our amazing Earth Hero community on social media. What is in it for you? The latest climate updates, inspiring eco-tips, fresh perspectives, fun posts, and much more. Join the conversation, or simply sit back and enjoy the ride!",summary:"Follow Earth Hero on social media for inspiring tips, news, and fun information.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:"<a href='https://www.pexels.com/photo/people-doing-group-hand-cheer-3280130/'>Dio Hasbi Saniskoro</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recRK2RpkrhKMclTY",id:910,slug:"910-explore-the-carbon-almanac",title:"Explore The Carbon Almanac",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/910-explore-the-carbon-almanac",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"4",impacts:["ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience","â³ Saves Time","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],tips:'⢠Browse <a href="https://thecarbonalmanac.org/resources/">the Resources page</a> to find great lists of information, tools, and organizations to help you act on climate change.\n\n⢠The website also has a kid-friendly version of the Carbon Almanac and an educator guide to download, which may be helpful if you want to help teach younger ones about climate change.',description:'Here is the truth about climate change â Itâs not too late.\n\nBecause of that, a worldwide team of hundreds of volunteers â including researchers, published authors, corporate and nonprofit leaders, and designers â built a foundational source of truth about climate change called the Carbon Almanac.\n\nWe see climate change happening and want to know what to do about it. The Carbon Almanac is a wonderful, collaborative work that offers climate science facts without the noise, confusion, or agendas to help each of us become well-informed about climate change.\n\nThere are a few ways to start exploring, which <a href="https://thecarbonalmanac.org/">all begin with The Carbon Almanac website</a>. You can order The Carbon Almanac book itself or sign up for the Daily Difference newsletters, which help you join with people from all over the world who are taking action.\n\nExplore the website to learn more and take another step in your climate journey!',summary:"With so much noise, confusion and agendas surrounding climate change, it can be hard to know what is true and what is not. The Carbon Almanac is a great resource to learn the science behind climate change, and what we can do to solve it.",amountSavings:"n/a"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recLpmDBXPPy4ZAFG",id:927,slug:"927-use-peat-free-garden-products",title:"Use peat-free garden products",categories:["Outside"],earthPoints:5,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/927-use-peat-free-garden-products",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"1",impacts:["ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion","ð¥ Reduce Emissions"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual","Household"],related:["rec76kDi5aFobGFRU","recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","recV4rJAPu7jSyMB3"],tips:"⢠When buying soil, seed-starting mixes, or other gardening products, check the labels for peat. If it is included, look for an alternative to accomplish the same job. Send a message with your money.\n\n⢠Check the label on the bag for indicators of peat moss, which may also be listed as sphagnum peat moss, bog moss, peat humus, horticultural peat, or hortic peat.\n\n⢠There are lots of great alternatives to peat. Plus you may find that you simply do not need to buy a product at all to accomplish your goals, despite what the army of marketers says as they try to
1separate you from your money.\n\n⢠Sustainable soil amendments enhance plant growth while preserving the environment. Composted bark and leaves improve soil structure and add organic matter. Compost enriches soil with essential nutrients. Rice hulls enhance aeration and drainage. For seed-starting or container gardening, wood fiber and perlite or vermiculite serve as effective substitutes. Additionally, biochar boosts soil fertility and acts as a long-term carbon sink. Coconut coir provides excellent water retention and aeration. These eco-friendly alternatives promote healthy plants without the environmental harm associated with peat harvesting.\n\n⢠If options are limited at your favorite shop, ask for peat-free options the next time you are shopping for soil amendments. This causes a ripple effect in the center itself, making the sellers think about peat.",description:'Did you know that besides being unique and diverse ecosystems, <a href="https://peatlands.org/peatlands/what-are-peatlands/">peatlands</a> are significant carbon sinks? Peatlands cover 3% of the earthâs land area, and yet <a href="https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/peat">store twice as much carbon as all the worldâs forests</a>! Only the oceans store more carbon than peatlands. Wow!\n\nPeatlands exist on every continent. It can take 1,000 years for 1 meter of peat to form. Peatland that is drained for harvesting or land use releases about 2 billion tons of accumulated carbon every year. This means that drained or degraded peatlands shift from being vast carbon sinks to dangerous sources of climate pollution in the atmosphere.\n\nPeatland restoration is gaining important attention, but even when well done, the restoration process does not reabsorb all of the released carbon from a disturbed peatland for hundreds, or even thousands of years. \n\nPeatlands are drained for a number of reasons, like agriculture, palm oil plantations, fuel, mineral extraction, or infrastru
1cture, and require protection by activists and governments. But another reason they are drained is to harvest the peat moss for use in garden soil products that many of us use.\n\nPeat moss is sometimes mixed into potting mixes, bags of dirt, or seed-starting mixes. Additionally, it is sold as a stand-alone top dressing or soil conditioner. For all of these cases, there are alternatives that do not cost as much and are not as harmful to our climate.\n\nSwitching to peat-free products is an important contribution every gardener can make to protect these diverse ecosystems, reduce carbon in the atmosphere, and help bring more awareness to the importance of keeping peatlands intact.',summary:"Peatlands are vital carbon sinks that store huge amounts of carbon but are often drained to harvest the peat for gardens, releasing carbon pollution into the atmosphere. Gardeners can help by opting for peat-free compost and soil products.",additionalResources:"https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p09hv04c\n\nhttps://peatlands.org/peatlands/peatlands-and-climate/\n\nhttps://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/peat-free\n\nhttps://oldworldgardenfarms.com/2020/04/09/potting-soil-recipe/",amountSavings:"$$",photoCredit:'Image by <a href="https://pixabay.com/users/katrina_s-5565009/">Katrina_S</a> from <a href="https://pixabay.com/">Pixabay</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recuf3VV0pE3TgAWb",id:934,slug:"934-lights-out-for-earth-hour",title:"Lights out for Earth Hour",categories:["Advocacy & Choice","Energy","Home & Work"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/934-lights-out-for-earth-hour",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð Save Energy","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð¡ Reduce Light Pollution"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Household","Individual","Community & Institutions"],related:["rec2h4nd2gyzRth4V","recKt7fcsgocrOOBY","recI9KhKNwd9sKLK4","recslMPsgrUrkdUWp","recscBhbL2AtDk2pE","recRYXu0NK4QSny6I","rec7OJQlq23vKevfr","rec99kgLCVMQvJbgL","recudVOEJu3ffuv5e","recKFKY0izr0abNfO"],tips:'⢠Check out <a href="https://www.earthhour.org/">the Earth Hour website</a> for simple ideas on how to participate. Some examples are:\n\n- Go on a nature walk.\n- Cook a dish to make your palate and planet proud.\n- Learn more by reading a book, watching a documentary, or listening to a podcast.\n\n⢠The Earth Hour website also has tools and resources for educators and companies.\n\n⢠Share on social media how you are participating, using #EarthHour, #MyHourForEarth, and #BiggestHourForEarth',description:'Earth Hour is a worldwide movement held annually to encourage individuals, communities, and businesses to turn off non-essential electric lights for one hour, do something positive with that time, and celebrate our planet. It serves as a beacon of positivity, hope, and inspiration to rally people, particularly those not yet fully engaged with the environmental crisis.\n\nIt typically is the last Saturday of March from 8:30 - 9:30 pm. Sometimes Earth Hour is the second to last Saturday if the last day of the month is a Saturday. Learn more about the event and get ideas on how to participate at <a href="https://www.earthhour.org/">www.EarthHour.org</a>. \n\nEarth Hour was started as a lights-off event in Sydney, Australia, in 2007 and now has participants in 190+ countries. The goal has been upped since then to not only turn off lights but to spend 60 minutes doing something - anything - positive for our one shared home.\n\nThe goal of Earth Hour is not just to save an hourâs electricity. Itâs about giving people a voice and working together to create a better future for our planet. So, letâs switch off and give an hour for our Earth!',summary:"Earth Hour is a movement to turn off non-essential lights for one hour on the last Saturday of March from 8:30 - 9:30 and do something positive for the planet. Visit the Earth Hour website for more ideas and resources to make the most of the event.",amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:"Photo by <a href='https://unsplash.com/@malteesimo'>Malte Schmidt</a> on <a href='https://unsplash.com/'>Unsplash</a>"},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recEdZr8joh0uZi9W",id:939,slug:"939-host-parties-sustainably",title:"Host parties sustainably",categories:["Family & Community","Stuff"],earthPoints:30,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/939-host-parties-sustainably",easeRating:"Ambitious",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ðï¸ Reduce Waste","â»ï¸ Reduce Plastics"],influenceMultiplier:3,levelOfAction:["Friends & Family"],related:["reccG4IVWSpbswtiI","reckJRljfkFNF13ll","recPqMCQCiG0ZXgbp","recDdSM33oIEQNip9"],tips:'⢠Use Reusable Tableware and Utensils - Replace plastic plates and cutlery with reusable ones. Abandon the use once and throw away mentality. If that is not practical, consider biodegradable or compostable alternatives made from materials. Plus it is a lot classier!\n\n⢠Decorate Sustainably - Use decorations that are reusable or have been used before. If you need some single-use items to spruce things up, go for natural materials like dried flowers, paper products, or wood, which can either be composted or reused. Swap balloons and plastic streamers for fabric bunting, paper lanterns, or LED fairy lights.\
1n\n⢠Eco-Friendly Gift Wrapping - Wrap gifts with recycled kraft paper or reusable fabric wraps (like <a href="https://www.ecosia.org/search?q=Furoshiki">the Furoshiki approach in Japan</a>).\n\n⢠Food Donation and Waste Management - Figure out a plan so that no food gets thrown away. At the end of the party, ensure it gets saved to enjoy another day. Send guests home with food. If you are having a massive party, partner with local food banks, shelters, or charities to donate leftover food. Use composting to manage unavoidable food waste.\n\n⢠Sustainable Attire - Rent dresses, suits, and accessories instead of purchasing them for a one-time use. Consider if it is really worth it to buy something to wear once and just sit in storage. \n\n⢠Sustainable Invites - Use digital invitations instead of printed ones to save paper and reduce waste. If you do go with paper invites, then use post-recycled paper.\n\n⢠Reduce Transportation Pollution - Encourage carpooling or provide group transportation for guests to reduce individual vehicle use. For destination weddings, offset the carbon footprint by investing in reforestation projects or carbon offset programs.\n\n⢠Eco-Friendly Party Favors - Gift practical, sustainable favors like potted plants, reusable tote bags, or artisanal goods from local vendors. Or consider skipping this if it is not needed.',description:"Large gatherings such as parties or weddings can generate a significant amount of food and single-use plastic waste from items like water bottles, disposable cutlery, packaging, gift wrappers, and decorations. However, with mindful choices, these joyous occasions can be made more environmentally sustainable.\n\nWhether it is disposable plastic cutlery, miniature plastic water bottles, or gifts wrapped in non-recyclable materials, the waste generated often contrasts with the spirit of celebration. Fortunately, practical steps to focus on reusable items and cutting out wasteful approaches can help reduce this impact.\n\nWill all your parties be completely sustainable? That is a high bar to hurdle. But by adopting these measures, celebrations can spread joy not only to attendees but also to our planet. Eco-friendly choices enhance the meaning of the event by aligning it with a commitment to sustainability, creating memories that future generations can cherish.",summary:"Parties and weddings generate significant food and plastic waste. Choosing reusable items, compostable materials, and eco-friendly practices can reduce environmental harm, making celebrations more sustainable and joyful for all.",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jessevig">Jesse Vigil</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recOWzaIwZOO6OGfx",id:957,slug:"957-coffee-or-tea-without-cow-milk",title:"Coffee or tea without cow milk",categories:[],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/957-coffee-or-tea-without-cow-milk",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð² Conserve Forests","ðªð½ Improve Health "],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recNJxIerzpltIfXm"],tips:'⢠If you still want a creamy taste for your tea or coffee, consider using a nut or oat milk or substituting with a dairy-free creamer. All options are <a href="https://davissciencesays.ucdavis.edu/blog/udderly-complex-sustainability-cow-and-plant-based-milks">better than cow milk</a> and tend to be a little healthier.',description:'Did you know that because tea and coffee are lightweight goods, they tend to have very little carbon impact from shipping and packaging? Yet, at the same time, the milk you add to your cup has a relatively larger impact. \n\nRemoving milk from your tea or coffee habit, especially cow milk, is not only healthier for you but mitigates the negative impacts of animal agriculture. For example, <a href="https://circularecology.com/news/the-carbon-footprint-of-a-cup-of-tea">a cup of tea without milk can be as much as a 1/4 of the carbon pollution</a>. The raising of cows for milk is inefficient and <a href="https://climate-wise.com/shifting-away-from-polluting-practices-how-the-meat-and-dairy-industry-impacts-the-planet/">contributes to deforestation</a> as forests are cleared to make way for cattle ranching and the cultivation of animal feed crops, such as soybeans, to feed cows.\n\nIf you use a small amount of cow milk for your coffee or tea here or there, then the impact is not that large. Yet if you can cut out cow milk for your coffee or tea, this is a nice, simple action and step toward a more sustainable world.',summary:"Leaving cow milk out of your tea or coffee reduces the carbon impact of your hot stimulant beverage.",good1stAction:!0,additionalResources:'Learn more by listening to <a href="https://www.dw.com/en/whats-better-tea-or-coffee/audio-68466385">this podcast</a>. \n\nRead more about the impact of how <a href="https://unitedbaristas.com/articles/leaders/milk-matters-small-changes-can-dramatically-lower-your-coffees-carbon-footprint/">milk contributes the largest part of a cappuccino\'s impact</a>.',amountSavings:"$",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@alex_boyd">Alex Boyd</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec9Sfgkplqsv3tz2",id:960,slug:"960-create-a-pocket-story",title:"Create a pocket story",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/960-create-a-pocket-story",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family","Systems & Movement Growth"],related:["reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","re
1ck7Bqng8lcnoN73","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","rec7niZRqsTueFn2J"],tips:'⢠Make It Personal: Focus on something you experienced, learned, or changed rather than offering a general opinion. Keep your pocket story kind and low-pressure. The goal is to open a conversation, not win an argument.\n\n⢠Be Specific: Include one clear moment, lesson, or realization that makes your story memorable.\n\n⢠Focus on Yourself: Explain what you learned and what you are trying without judging other people\'s choices.\n\n⢠Include an Action: End with something concrete you are doing related to food, travel, energy, consumption, advocacy, or another part of your life.\n\n⢠Keep It Short: Aim for three simple sentences that are easy to remember and share naturally.\n\n⢠Save Your Story: Keep it in your phone, notes, or another place where you can quickly find it.\n\n⢠Invite Conversation: End with an invitation to talk more or a question. Climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe recommends <a href="https://www.talkingclimate.ca/p/is-climate-talk-off-limits-over-the"> beginning with something the other person cares about</a>, connecting through shared values, and highlighting practical solutions.',description:'Draft a story that you can reuse in a conversation, message, or comment.\n\nUse this simple template:\n\nI used to...\n\nThen I learned...\n\nNow I am trying...\n\nFor example: I used to eat meat almost every day. Then I learned that eating less meat, especially beef and lamb, can significantly reduce my climate impact. Now I am trying to keep certain days plant-based and use them to explore interesting new recipes.\n\nMany great public speakers use stories to capture people\'s attention, and we often use them naturally in everyday conversations. <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2214629617302050">Researchers have explored storytelling</a> as a way to understand, communicate, and influence how people engage with energy and climate issues. A personal story can make climate change feel more relatable and less abstract.\n\nAnd for you personally, it can make action easier. Writing your own reasons is a form of self-persuasion, which can be <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7786400/">more motivating than being told what to do</a>. Putting your reasons into your own words can reinforce why an action matters to you.\n\nTurn one experience into three sentences, save your story, and share it when the moment feels right. A small personal story can help make climate action easier to talk about and inspire others to consider their own next step.',summary:"Climate and environmental issues can feel hard to discuss. Create a simple three-sentence pocket story that makes climate conversations personal, relatable, and focused on action.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/de/@silverkblack">Vitaly Gariev</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recFv79KFxyyICKe1",id:961,slug:"961-listen-to-nature-literally",title:"Listen to NATURE, literally",categories:["Home & Work"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/961-listen-to-nature-literally",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¦ Boost Biodiversity","ð³ Ecosystem Protection and Expansion"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recojFBNwoKShcwqh","recBJj769Cgb2mSkT","recyuOjUY5ZRVVuVa","recE4R2XqcV09RKsM","recNpI6zAPt2Djk6B"],tips:'⢠Search for NATURE as an artist on your preferred music streaming platform. As long as NATURE is one of the artists on the track, then royalties benefit the project.\n\n⢠Add a NATURE track to a playlist you already enjoy or set a weekly reminder to listen to make it a new habit.\n\n⢠To listen with less energy, consider choosing audio-only playback on a phone or other small device instead of playing video on a large screen. If you replay a track often, download it for offline listening.\n\n⢠Learn more about how the initiative routes support on the <a href="https://www.earthpercent.org/sounds-right-fund">Sounds Right Fund page</a>.',description:'<a href="https://www.soundsright.earth/">Sounds Right</a> is a global music initiative that recognizes NATURE as an artist on major streaming platforms. Some releases feature ambient recordings of ecosystems, while others are songs by human artists that incorporate natural sounds and credit NATURE as a collaborator.\n\nWhen these tracks are streamed, NATURE earns a share of the royalties. These payments go to the <a href="https://www.earthpercent.org/sounds-right-fund">Sounds Right Fund</a>, which finances biodiversity conservation and restoration projects.\n\nPut NATURE on your playlist! Choose a track, press play, and share it with someone else to help the sounds and story of NATURE travel even further.',summary:"Recognize the natural world as the original artist by listening to tracks that credit NATURE as an artist, which direct streaming royalties toward biodiversity conservation and restoration projects.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@badun">Anastasiya Badun</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rechhpmCe0gUhLc5A",id:965,slug:"965-log-a-climate-win",title:"Log a climate win",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/actions/965-log-a-climate-win",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift","ð§ð½ Build Personal Resilience"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["rec9Sfgkplqsv3tz2","recEhCmXDlejF09us","rec7niZRq
1sTueFn2J"],tips:"⢠Keep It Short and Simple: Write one honest line. It does not need to be impressive or perfect.\n\n⢠Use the Prompt: If you are unsure how to begin, try: âThis week I showed up by learning, choosing, sharing, requesting, or supporting...â\n\n⢠Save Your Wins: Keep them together in a notes app, journal, or pinned message. If your win is an Earth Hero action, remember to mark it achieved!\n\n⢠Look for Patterns: Once a month, reread your entries and choose one action or behavior you want to repeat.\n\n⢠Share Your Win: Tell a friend to reinforce your motivation.",description:'Take two minutes and complete this sentence:\n\nâThis week I showed up by [action]â¦â Choose one win, even a tiny one. It could be a conversation, a choice you made, a reminder you set, or a habit you kept going. Add a one-word feeling at the end: proud, hopeful, calm, or whatever feels true.\n\nWhy it matters: Naming what you did directs your attention toward progress and can make the action easier to remember and repeat. <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3505409/">Habit research</a> shows that repeating simple behaviors in stable contexts can support them sticking over time. <a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2024.1459165/full">Environmental identity</a> is also associated with pro-environmental behavior. Your entries create a record of how you are acting on your values.',summary:"Small wins can build lasting change. Write one line about how you showed up for our planet this week, then name how it made you feel. This can reinforce your identity as someone who takes action, and it makes it easier to act again.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@kellysikkema">Kelly Sikkema</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recQ6HxWnIXr5SIlj",id:966,slug:"966-find-a-climate-buddy",title:"Find a climate buddy",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:2,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396310/actions/966-find-a-climate-buddy.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Individual","Friends & Family"],related:["rechhpmCe0gUhLc5A","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","reck7Bqng8lcnoN73","recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","rec9Sfgkplqsv3tz2"],tips:"⢠Send a Simple Invite: âI am trying some small climate actions. Want to be climate buddies? If so, I can tell you more.â\n\n⢠Pick Your Check-In: Use one emoji, a simple sentence, or a shared photo to celebrate progress.\n\n⢠Keep It Positive: Share one win first, then one next step.\n\n⢠Find Conversation Ideas: If you are unsure how to bring up the topic or want more structure, explore the âLog a climate win,â âCreate a pocket story,â or âTalk about climateâ actions.\n\n⢠Create an Earth Hero Community: Invite your buddy so you can see your progress together. In the app, open the Community tab to create a group. Generate a shareable link, then send it to your buddy.",description:'Pick one person and invite them to be your low-pressure climate buddy for seven days. Agree on one or two small climate actions you each want to try and one simple check-in for the week. For example, halfway through the week, send a green heart emoji along with one small win and one next step.\n\nAfter seven days, decide together whether to continue for another round, pause, or grow the group by inviting someone else.\n\nWhy it matters: It is easier to stick with change when you feel connected and supported. You have likely noticed that completing tasks can be more fun and rewarding when you do them with others. <a href="https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/SDT/documents/2000_RyanDeci_SDT.pdf">Relatedness</a> is one of three basic psychological needs that support motivation and well-being. A friendly, optional check-in can add encouragement and accountability without creating pressure.',summary:"Climate action is easier with support. Invite one person to be your low-pressure climate buddy for seven days, choose a couple of actions, and agree on a simple check-in to help each other follow through.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/de/@markusspiske">Markus Spiske</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recyuOjUY5ZRVVuVa",id:967,slug:"967-practice-nature-noticing",title:"Practice nature noticing",categories:["Advocacy & Choice"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396313/actions/967-practice-nature-noticing.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recFloV99G6qfvWYR","recc4IFai7MtRh6BM","rec76kDi5aFobGFRU","reccNgLAi8Qk14fh4","recViIlG0cWuQuveE","re
1cI0aeyVJHfBz92D"],tips:'Set a timer for five minutes (or whatever you prefer) and do any of the following items or something related:\n\n⢠Find Living Things: Look for a street tree, a plant on a balcony, moss on a wall, or a bird on a wire.\n\n⢠Listen for Natural Sounds: Notice birds, wind, rain, or rustling leaves.\n\n⢠Notice Details Up Close: Examine a leaf shape, bark texture, ant trail, or flower scent.\n\n⢠Take a Micro-Safari: Explore the planters, tree pits, cracks in pavement, courtyards, parks, canals, or beaches that serve as nature cradles in your area.\n\n⢠Look Up: Notice clouds, migrating birds, swifts, or bats at dusk.\n\n⢠Look Down: Notice weeds, fungi on mulch, tiny insects near lights, or seed pods on the ground.\n\n⢠Notice from Indoors: Look from a window or balcony for light, weather, birds, and plants.\n\nWant to Go Deeper?\n\n⢠Identify What You Find: Take a photo and identify it with the free <a href="https://www.inaturalist.org/pages/seek_app">iNaturalist app</a>.\n\n⢠Try a Birdsong Moment: Use the free <a href="https://merlin.allaboutbirds.org/">Merlin Bird ID app</a> to identify birds by their songs and calls.\n\n⢠Share What You Notice: Tell a friend or share it with your group to make the experience social and help the practice stick.',description:'You do not need a forest or a national park to reconnect with nature. Nature noticing is a simple practice: pause, pay attention, and observe what is already around you.\n\nLook for living things, such as plants, insects, and birds; natural patterns, such as clouds, wind, and water; and small signs of life that often go unnoticed, such as moss growing between cracks, new buds, and animal tracks.\n\nThese small acts can build awareness and appreciation, making climate and biodiversity feel more personal in everyday life. <a href="https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1089/eco.2021.0023">Research</a> has found that active sensory engagement is associated with a stronger connection to nature, which is linked to pro-environmental behavior and well-being.',summary:"Nature is everywhere, even in a city or suburb. Spend five minutes noticing the living world around you to feel more connected, curious, and motivated to protect it.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@anna_7q">Anna</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"recrxezrbz3CfKX8G",id:970,slug:"970-spot-the-shift",title:"Spot the shift",categories:["Outside","Family & Community"],earthPoints:1,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396314/actions/970-spot-the-shift.jpg",easeRating:"Easy",impactRating:"0",impacts:["ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:1,levelOfAction:["Individual"],related:["recj3KDSYRkAtCemX","reczYfkqfNczhqWeN","recViIlG0cWuQuveE","recyuOjUY5ZRVVuVa"],tips:"⢠Scan for the Shift: Look for climate-friendly shifts on your street, in a shop, local restaurant, or at your workplace or school.\n\n⢠See Different Angles: Consider changes related to energy, travel, reducing waste, buildings, food, or greening a new area.\n\n⢠Capture What You See: Save a quick note, photo, or voice memo. Keep your signals in one place for easy reference.\n\n⢠Amplify the Effect: Tell someone what you noticed with a simple line such as, âI have been seeing more [shift signal] lately.â\n\n⢠Repeat: If you like this practice, do it once a week to keep noticing new solutions and positive changes.",description:'Take a little time to scan your day for signs that your community is changing for the better, not only through better choices, but also through nature returning. Look in places such as your street, nearby shops, your workplace or school.\n\nThese might include e-bikes and bike-share stations, repair cafes, refill and reuse systems, solar panels, people-friendly streets, new gardens, green walls, new trees, or pollinator-friendly plantings.\n\nThe complexity of climate change can feel overwhelming. When you see change in motion, it becomes easier to believe progress is possible, talk about it, and take the next step. Research on <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28961062/">norms</a> shows that people are more likely to adopt a behavior when they learn that it is becoming more common.\n\nNoticing everyday nature can also make ecological change feel more personal. A stronger <a href="https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7027494/">nature connection</a> is associated with greater pro-environmental behavior.\n\nPracticing this awareness makes climate issues more tangible and can help you notice opportunities to take action.',summary:"Climate solutions and nature-friendly choices are spreading, but they can be easy to miss. Identify âshift signals,â such as e-bikes or new gardens, to build awareness and encourage further action.",good1stAction:!0,amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@aalolens">Aalo Lens</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'},{_kind:"actions",_internalId:"rec5F3EVeLEWlAuD4",id:971,slug:"971-help-green-your-school-with-leed",title:"Help Green Your School With LEED",categories:["Family & Community"],earthPoints:20,image:"https://res.cloudinary.com/dhlg8azol/image/upload/v1790396315/actions/971-help-green-your-school-with-leed.jpg",easeRating:"Medium",impactRating:"2",impacts:["ðªð½ Improve Health ","ð§ Preserve Water","ð Save Energy","ð¥ Reduce Emissions","ð¨âð©âð§âð¦ Cultural Shift"],influenceMultiplier:2,levelOfAction:["Community & Institutions"],related:["recJpcNfCyOls5968"],tips:'⢠Check the <a href="https://support.usgbc.org/hc/en-us/articles/4404771986579-Education-course-fees-payment-and-refund-policy">current pricing page</a> and search for the Green Classroom Professional certificate program to see if it fits your budget.\n\n⢠Completing the certificate program can help educators prepare for the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/credentials/leed-green-associate">LEED Green Associate</a> exam, which demonstrates foundational knowledge of green building principles and how to support LEED projects.\n\n⢠Share your achievement by adding the certificate to your resume, LinkedIn profile, or email signature to showcase the program.',description:'LEED, short for Leadership in
1Energy and Environmental Design, is the worldâs most widely used green building rating system. Developed by the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/">U.S. Green Building Council</a> (USGBC), the <a href="https://www.usgbc.org/leed">LEED framework</a> helps guide the creation of healthier, more efficient, and cost-saving buildings.\n\nUSGBC offers the Green Classroom Professional (GCP) certificate to educators and school staff working with pre-K through grade 12. Participants have one year to complete 12 self-guided, interactive modules, which take about two hours in total, followed by a quiz. Topics include green schools and classrooms, sustainable grounds and transportation, indoor environmental quality, and water efficiency and quality.\n\nPotential benefits include supporting healthier learning environments, reducing energy and water use, lower operating costs, connecting environmental practices with classroom activities, and promoting sustainability among students.\n\nThe certificate also stays with you if you later change schools, while giving your current school an achievement to highlight. Visit the <a href="https://support.usgbc.org/hc/en-us/articles/4404346657939-About-the-Green-Classroom-Professional-certificate">GCP certificate page</a> to learn more.',summary:"Are you a teacher or part of school staff? Earn a Green Classroom Professional certificate to learn practical ways to create healthier, more resource-efficient, and environmentally sustainable learning spaces.",additionalResources:"https://usgbc.gitbook.io/green-classroom-professional-program-handbook\n\nhttps://climatesteps.org/2025/07/20/green-classrooms-certificate/\n",amountSavings:"n/a",photoCredit:'Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@heyquilia">Quila</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/">Unsplash</a>'}]])},89430,(e,t,a)=>{t.exports={recFg4y10XV47MhCz:"Advocacy & Choice",rechQjoxlLdY4BBCQ:"Energy",recHnS7zOCjhuEIPc:"Family & Community",recBiqsIWsSdimfCu:"Food",recY1k2pqUdxrYt3a:"Home & Work",rec70MCDXCYe20BVx:"Outside",recuHbjvoTnSvnzoE:"Resilience",recND7q5NrQ1hwKOW:"Stuff",rec2XlhTq48Fug1pV:"Travel & Transport"}},36251,e=>{"use strict";var t=e.i(91398),a=e.i(17563),o=e.i(86779),n=e.i(56119),i=e.i(26019);let s={src:e.i(50310).default,width:14,height:14,blurWidth:0,blurHeight:0},r={src:e.i(73967).default,width:14,height:14,blurWidth:0,blurHeight:0},l=[-1,1,19,39,60],c=({points:e})=>l.map(a=>e>a?(0,t.jsx)(i.default,{alt:"",src:s,width:14,height:14},a):(0,t.jsx)(i.default,{alt:"",src:r,width:14,height:14},a));e.s(["default",0,({action:e})=>(0,t.jsxs)(o.Stack,{flexDirection:"row",gap:3,justifyContent:"start",children:[(0,t.jsxs)(a.Box,{component:"dl",children:[(0,t.jsx)(n.Typography,{variant:"body2",component:"dt",color:"text.secondary",children:"Earth Points"}),(0,t.jsxs)(n.Typography,{variant:"subtitle1",component:"dl",children:[(0,t.jsx)(a.Box,{component:"span",sx:{mr:1},children:e.earthPoints}),(0,t.jsx)(c,{points:e.earthPoints})]})]}),(0,t.jsxs)(a.Box,{component:"dl",children:[(0,t.jsx)(n.Typography,{variant:"body2",component:"dt",color:"text.secondary",children:"Ease"}),(0,t.jsx)(n.Typography,{variant:"subtitle1",component:"dl",children:e.easeRating})]})]})],36251)},54804,e=>{"use strict";let t={src:e.i(99974).default,width:462,height:349,blurWidth:8,blurHeight:6,blurDataURL:"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAAgAAAAGCAYAAAD+Bd/7AAAAw0lEQVR42l3MvwsBYRzH8Sc/SkSSyCLlt2KhDBSLjbiTS7guq6vnec5qlH/AIhNWmx+lKIv/6MJ1111f5yZ51Wd790FpzCgZqWtkKKtnCacVsKCWsKjUxPm7MdjLKE0Y1QygTCm06Qb65Ag8uUGLPz+j+cXdDFgtJ3HQoTsYk4e10eQqp/KcZHN4A8i6pj2o8GuotQ+vYnW6iiXqrMPpcqOvHB4aKYFArLLVQ8nZyWb3+NGveJVcgnFh6Qs3sdMVSaA/H6ELRefkECTYAAAAAElFTkSuQmCC"};e.s(["default",0,t])}]);
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