That uncontrollable pile of clutter may give you a headache since it visually distracts you and causes stress. Owning too many things makes organizing your space and enjoying your home challenging. Explore the seven benefits of downsizing and its merits to you and the planet. Consumerism Has Environmental Consequences Environment degradation and consumerism are closely linked. Unfortunately, many people don’t realize that resources are extracted from nature to produce the goods they pay for. Once they get their hands on an item, they may only use it a few times before discarding it. Excessive consumerism has dramatically contributed to soil erosion, air pollution, and habitat loss in many organisms. Manufacturing companies aggressively…
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The Dangers of Outdoor Domestic Cats on Local Ecosystems
Some cats love going outside and exploring the wilderness. While owners may indulge their kitty’s curiosity, it might not be conducive to the environment. Outdoor domestic cats can significantly affect local ecosystems by disrupting animal populations and food chains. Conversely, the environment could negatively impact the cats. Here’s what you need to know about the outdoors and feline friends. How Outdoor Domestic Cats Impact Local Ecosystems While one or two cats might seem inconsequential, the ramifications can be severe if outdoor pets roam during the day. If you have a lot of land, you might not be able to see the damage your feline does to local ecosystems. Consider the…
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What Are Time Banks? What You Need to Know About Service-Based Currency
Have you ever wished services were paid in a currency other than cash? Time banks offer an interesting solution that takes “time is money” seriously. This relationship model can create a harmonious environment as long as it’s done correctly. How Time Banks Work Think of time banking as giving out human dollars. Instead of monetizing services, it operates on equal-value exchanges and is highly focused on the minutes spent doing them. For example, you mow someone’s lawn for an hour. The time spent turns into credit under their account. They can use it to redeem assistance from you. Time banking is similar to holding favors for one another since it focuses on…
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The Importance of Urban Trees’ Cooling Effects
Cities — packed with buildings and pavement — absorb heat all day and release it back into the air at night. This creates the urban heat island (UHI), whereby cities are hotter than surrounding areas. The effects of UHIs are far-reaching, impacting both the environment and human and pet health. Urban trees within densely populated towns promote sustainable and livable spaces. These green giants offer many benefits that enhance the environment and quality of life for city dwellers. Why Trees Are Important in Urban Areas With up to 80% of the U.S. population residing in urban cities, trees are fundamental to mitigating the effects of UHIs. High temperatures in metropolitans promote the…
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The Sustainability of Open Pit vs. Subsurface Mining
Mining is quite a prominent practice, essential to get the raw materials numerous industries need to survive. Humans thrive on being able to explore and extract all kinds of minerals. However, environmental stewards should join the conversation and gauge their sustainability. Open-pit and sub-surface mining are two of the main types of mining. Corporations use each one interchangeably, depending on the landscape and need. Here’s an assessment of how they work and how sustainable they are. Open-Pit Mining Open-pit mining is a process that extracts matter close to the ground. Mining often has a reputation for going underground, but this process does not go too deep, which is why it’s…
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Why Is the Right to Repair Important?
The right to repair is an act of defiance of market captivity. Original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) have made almost every device irreparable by third parties or too expensive to fix. Independent technicians and do-it-yourselfers aren’t the only losers in the status quo — the environment suffers, too. Will this movement turn the tide? What Is Right to Repair? The right-to-repair campaign is the clamor for more freedom to fix broken items. It arises from the increasing irreparability of electronic equipment and machinery. The movement’s proponents aim to counter most manufacturers’ policies of promoting product replacement through various means, including ending software support, restricting parts swaps, gatekeeping acceptable spare components and keeping…
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What Is the Impact of Climate Change on Human Migration?
The effects of climate change on human migration are widespread. In recent years, people have fled worsening sea level rise, droughts, heat waves, and floods. The environmental changes have forced vulnerable communities from their homes and businesses as they search for safer ground and solutions. Take a closer look at climate-induced migrations worldwide and how different countries address them. The Worldwide Effect of Climate Change on Human Migration Climate change has impacted the world differently, with some nations faring better than others. However, developing countries have grappled with more environmental issues, leading to a mass exodus of people seeking refuge in unaffected areas. Here is the effect of climate change…
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Permaculture Principles for a More Resilient Future
Permaculture is a timeless resource for veteran and budding planetary advocates alike, even in a home garden.
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Lake Owego Sustainability Fair
Visit the third annual Lake Oswego Sustainability Resource Fair! Celebrate Earth Day and connect with diverse organizations across our community that are advancing sustainability.
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And More Electrifying Stories
“Though the problems of the world are increasingly complex, the solutions remain embarrassingly simple.” Bill Mollison
