Ripplfect Team

51 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

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Energy prices are increasing & so is the environmental impact

The average energy prices in the US have increased by over 12% in the last year, according to the latest data from the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). As energy costs continue to rise, making your home more energy efficient is becoming increasingly important, but can in some cases require upfront costs. In this blog we will run through 51 ways you can make your home energy efficient. 

51 Ways to Make Your Home More Energy Efficient

 

Is buying energy efficient replacements more expensive in the long run? It is proven not only will it save you money on your energy bills, but it will also help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future. With the recent IPCC report that came out, it is more clear than ever as individuals we need to start taking action NOW.

Now, you can get paid to make your home more energy efficient

Not to mention, the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA)—the biggest climate bill in US history—will help bring down the costs of solar panels, electric vehicles, and renewable energy sources. It may also change how people cook and do laundry: The bill sets aside $4.5 billion for the first-ever federal consumer rebates on electric appliances such as ranges, ovens, cooktops, and heat-pump clothes dryers.

To help people navigate the numbers, Rewiring America created a calculator to show rebate possibilities based on your household income and size, your zip code, your tax filing, and whether you own or rent your home.

As energy costs continue to rise, here are 51 cheap and easy ways to save hundreds of dollars a year on electricity bills and reduce your carbon footprint at the same time. Make sure to check if you can get a rebate on these purchases as well! 

Here are 51 ways to make your home more energy efficient (& save money!)

Install solar panels to generate electricity

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the cost of installing solar panels has decreased by more than 70% over the past decade, and solar panels can save homeowners tens of thousands of dollars on energy bills over their lifetime. Installing solar panels on your roof can also increase the value of your home. According to a study by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, homes with solar panels sold for an average of $15,000 more than homes without them.

get solar panels to reduce home energy usage

Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule

Installing a programmable thermostat can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,050 pounds per year.

Use energy-efficient light bulbs, such as LED or CFL bulbs

Switching to energy-efficient light bulbs can save up to $75 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,400 pounds per year. Order some on amazon here. 

Unplug electronics when they’re not in use to reduce energy

Unplugging electronics when they’re not in use can save up to $100 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,000 pounds per year.

Use a power strip to turn off multiple electronics at once

Using a power strip to turn off multiple electronics at once can save up to $200 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,000 pounds per year. Find a power strip here. 

Seal air leaks around windows and doors with weatherstripping

Sealing air leaks around windows and doors with weatherstripping can save up to 15% on heating and cooling costs per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,000 pounds per year. Find weatherstripping seals here. 

Insulate your attic, walls, and floors to reduce heat loss

Insulating your attic, walls, and floors can save up to 10% on heating and cooling costs per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,800 pounds per year.

Use a low-flow shower head to reduce water usage

Using a low-flow shower head and keeping your showers under 10 minutes can save you up to $145 a year on electricity and can save up to 2,900 gallons of water per year according to Energy Star. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,200 pounds per year. Find a low flow shower head here.

Fix leaky faucets to save water

Fixing leaky faucets can save up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,200 pounds per year and save you up to 10% on your water bill, according to the EPA.

Use a front-loading, water-efficient washing machine to save water and energy

Using a front-loading washing machine can save up to 50% on your water bill and 7,000 gallons of water per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 600 pounds per year according to Energy Star. You can find them at Lowes. 

Air dry clothes instead of using a dryer

Air drying clothes instead of using a dryer can save 10-20% in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions from your household by by up to 2,400 pounds per year. Here are some drying racks.

use a drying rack to reduce home energy usage

Use a toaster oven or microwave instead of the oven when possible

Using a toaster oven or microwave instead of the oven can save up to $50 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 200 pounds per year.

Turn off the oven a few minutes early and let residual heat finish cooking food

Turning off the oven a few minutes early and letting residual heat finish cooking food can save up to $50 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 200 pounds per year.

Keep your refrigerator and freezer full to improve energy efficiency

The majority of the energy your freezer uses goes towards cooling down the air that comes in when you open the freezer door. Keeping your refrigerator and freezer full can save up to $100 per year or 25% in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 700 pounds per year.

Keep your refrigerator and freezer clean and well-maintained

Keeping your refrigerator and freezer clean and well-maintained can save 15% on your energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 700 pounds per year. Make sure to clean the coils at least once a year.

Set your refrigerator and freezer temperatures to the most efficient settings

Setting your refrigerator and freezer temperatures to the most efficient settings can save up to 10% in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 700 pounds per year.

Use a slow cooker or pressure cooker to save energy

Using a slow cooker or pressure cooker can save up to 75% in energy costs.  This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,800 pounds per year. You can find slow cookers here. 

Use a teapot to boil water instead of heating it on the stove

Using a teapot to boil water instead of heating it on the stove can save up to 50% on your energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 100 pounds per year. 

Use a lid when cooking to retain heat

Using a lid when cooking can save you up to 20% on your energy costs. Using a lid when cooking to retain heat can save up to $36 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 144 pounds per year.

Use a crock pot/Dutch oven/microwave to cook food more efficiently

Using a crock pot Dutch oven or microwave to cook food more efficiently can save you up to 80% on your cooking energy costs.  This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,000 pounds per year.

Use a high-efficiency furnace or boiler to heat your home energy

Using a high-efficiency furnace or boiler can save you up to 30% on your heating costs. (source: Energy Star)Installing a high-efficiency furnace can save up to 20% on heating costs per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 5,000 pounds per year.

Use a wood stove or pellet stove for supplemental heating

Using a wood stove or pellet stove for supplemental heating can save you up to 30% on your heating costs. (source: Energy.gov)

Use a ceiling fan to improve air circulation

Using a ceiling fan to improve air circulation can save you up to 40% on your cooling costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,500 pounds per year.

(source: Energy.gov)

Use a portable fan to cool rooms instead of an air conditioner

Using a portable fan to cool rooms instead of an air conditioner can save you up to 90% on your cooling costs. When buying ceiling fans, look for the ENERGY STAR® label. Ceiling fans that are Energy Star certified are up to 40% more efficient, on average, than conventional models.

Clean or replace air filters regularly to improve air quality and energy efficiency

Cleaning or replacing air filters regularly can save you up to 15% on your energy costs. 

Use a programmable timer to control when appliances and lights turn on and off

Turning off lights when leaving a room can save up to $50 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 900 pounds per year. Find programmable timers here. 

Planting shade trees or installing window shades to reduce energy

Planting shade trees or installing window shades can reduce cooling costs by up to 50%. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,500 pounds per year.

Use motion sensors to turn lights on and off automatically or just make sure to shut them when you leave a room 

Turning off lights when leaving a room can save up to $50 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 900 pounds per year.

Use a smart home system to control and automate your home’s energy usage

According to a study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE), smart home systems can reduce energy consumption by 10-18% on average, leading to an annual savings of $50-$180 per household.

Use a water efficient toilet

Using a water-efficient toilet can save up to 13,000 gallons of water per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 2,600 pounds per year.

Use a solar water heater to heat your water

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, solar water heaters can reduce the energy needed to heat water by 50-80%, depending on the climate and the type of system used. Furthermore, using a solar water heater can also increase the value of your home. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, homes with solar water heaters sold for 4.1% more than homes without them.

Use natural light instead of artificial light whenever possible

Using natural light instead of artificial light during the day can save up to $50 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 900 pounds per year.

Use window coverings to block out the sun’s heat during the summer

Installing insulating window coverings can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 25%, which can lead to significant cost savings on heating bills. In addition, window coverings can reduce solar heat gain by up to 77%, which can help reduce the amount of energy needed to cool your home in the summer.

Install a low-flow faucet 

Installing low-flow faucet aerators can save up to 700 gallons of water per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 300 pounds per year.

Plant trees to shade your home

In addition to absorbing up to 48 lbs of carbon dioxide a year, by planting trees near and around your house to shade it from the sun According to the U.S. Department of Energy, strategically planting trees around a home can reduce air conditioning needs by up to 50%.

Use a gas fireplace instead of a wood-burning fireplace

Using a gas fireplace instead of a wood-burning fireplace can save up to $100 per year in energy costs. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 3,000 pounds per year.

Use a humidifier in the winter to add moisture to the air and reduce heating costs

By using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, the heating system does not have to work as heat to cool the space, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. Find humidifiers here. 

Use a hot water heater blanket 

Using a hot water heater blanket can save up to 10% on water heating costs per year. This can also reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 450 pounds per year. You can get a hot water heater blanket here. 

Use a high-efficiency air conditioner to reduce energy

Save up to 50% on cooling costs per user and reduce up to 4,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions per year when you switch to a high-energy efficient air conditioner.

Use a dehumidifier in the summer to reduce humidity and cooling costs

By using a dehumidifier to remove excess moisture from the air, the air conditioning system does not have to work as hard to cool the space, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.

Use a space heater to heat a specific room instead of heating the entire house

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, space heaters can be up to 80% more energy-efficient than central heating systems, which can result in significant cost savings over time.

Use a low-emissivity (Low-E) coating on windows to reduce heat loss

Low-E coatings are a thin, virtually invisible layer of metal or metallic oxide that are applied to the surface of windows to reduce the amount of heat that is transferred through the glass. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, installing low-E windows can save homeowners up to 25% on their heating and cooling costs. 

Use a laptop instead of a desktop computer to save energy

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), a laptop consumes an average of 80% less energy than a desktop computer. In addition, laptops have the added benefit of being portable, which allows you to work from anywhere without the need for a constant power source. This can also lead to a reduction in energy consumption, as you can work in natural light or in a room with lower energy requirements. You can also expect to save around $15 to $50 per year.

Turn off your computer when you’re not using it to reduce home energy

Computers consume energy even when they are not in use, and this “standby power” can account for up to 10% of a household’s energy consumption. This means that leaving a computer on 24/7 can lead to unnecessary energy waste and carbon emissions. According to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, turning off a desktop computer and monitor when they are not in use can save up to $75 per year in energy costs and prevent the release of up to 1,000 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year.

Use a tablet or e-reader instead of printed books and magazines

According to a study by the Cleantech Group, a single e-reader can save up to 23 kilograms of CO2 emissions over its lifetime, compared to the production and distribution of a printed book. This is equivalent to the carbon footprint of about 30 miles of driving in a typical passenger vehicle.

Use a hybrid or electric vehicle 

The average gasoline-powered vehicle emits approximately 4.6 metric tons of CO2 per year, while the average electric vehicle emits only about 2.3 metric tons per year. In addition, the average fuel cost savings for an electric vehicle compared to a gasoline-powered vehicle is around $750 per year, with even greater savings for plug-in hybrids. Learn more about how this can also can create a super-leverage point.

Use a clothes washer with a high spin speed to reduce drying time

Using a clothes washer with a high spin speed can reduce drying time by up to 30% according to the U.S. Department of Energy, leading to energy savings of up to 15% and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions of up to 10%.

Wash your clothes on cold

Washing clothes on cold can reduce energy consumption by up to 90% compared to washing clothes on hot according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Use a clothes dryer with a moisture sensor to reduce drying time

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, using a moisture sensor on a clothes dryer can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%. This reduction in energy consumption can result in significant cost savings on energy bills over time, especially for larger households or those who do laundry frequently.

Use a clothes dryer with a heat pump to save energy

A heat pump clothes dryer can use up to 50% less energy than a traditional electric clothes dryer.

Use a heat pump water heater to save energy

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, a heat pump water heater can use up to 50% less energy than a traditional electric water heater, resulting in significant cost savings over time. 

While the initial investment in some of these energy-savers may be higher, the long-term benefits in terms of energy efficiency and reduced emissions can make it a worthwhile investment.

It’s worth noting that the impact of some of these swaps or actions may be small when compared to other energy-saving measures, such as upgrading to energy-efficient appliances or installing solar panels. However, every little bit helps when it comes to reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.

We hope that these 51 ways to make your home energy efficient sparked some ideas and inspiration! Download the Ripplfect mobile app to start tracking the impact of taking action and reducing your home energy. If you do anything listed above – you can track it on our mobile app to get points that you can later redeem for rewards. 

Alternatives to SHEIN: 15 Sustainable Brands You’ll Love

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Image of women wearing cheaply made Shein clothes

Unless you live under a rock, you have probably heard of Shein

So.. you may have heard. Shein owned by the Zoetop Business Co. has risen in popularity among Gen Z and Millennials. The fast fashion retailer is known for extremely cheap clothing and jumping on fashion trends at alarmingly fast rates. “Shein hauls” have become increasingly popular on TikTok and Instagram, influencers boasting about 50+ articles of clothing from one shopping spree. This results in waste colonialism, which is a massive problem.

In 2020, Shein made nearly $10 billion dollars… and now according to Bloomberg, Shein’s valuation is upwards of $100 billion dollars due to the recent funding round. This puts it at the third most valuable startup in the WORLD.

Dig in a little deeper, and you will start to wonder how the company profitably sells most clothing items under $5. How can an article of clothing be cheaper than a cup of coffee? Human and planet exploitation. No stranger to controversy, in 2020 the brand was accused of selling offensive items, one of them being a necklace in the shape of a swastika. SHEIN has also been accused of stealing designs from small independent labels, creating low-quality copies for 1/10th of the price.

Shein is an environmental nightmare

Shein is an environmental nightmare. Shein has churned out 314,877 new styles in the last year with thousands added every day. The next closest rival is Boohoo, with 18,343 new styles YTD, not even coming close to the level of waste that Shein produces.

Graph of gross amount of products Shein creates a yearSource: Statistica

The fast fashion industry is the second most polluting industry, topped only by the oil and gas industry. Fast fashion is responsible for 20% of global wastewater and 10% of carbon emissions. The amount of water and energy necessary to produce millions of pieces a year is unquestionably high. Even if Shein wholeheartedly attempted to reduce waste and energy consumption, it’s impossible to be sustainable with such a high production rate. In other words, Shein is and always will be unsustainable. Not to mention, many of their fabrics create microplastics.

..and Sheins child labor practices aren’t any better

Fast fashion is notorious for using sweatshops—which subject workers to horrible conditions and long hours for meager pay—as well as child labor.

In October 2022, an undercover investigation from Channel 4  found Shein workers work seven days a week, some getting a base salary of only $556 per month to make 500 pieces of clothing per day. In total, that equates to earning two cents per item of clothing produced. At some factories, female employees were forced to washed their hair over their lunch break due to having no time to do so during their 18-hour work days.

So, what are sustainable alternatives to Shein?

We recognize that sustainable brands aren’t accessible to everyone. It is important to note that the nature of how you intend to use clothes also determines how sustainable the purchase is. If you are able to make an article of clothing from Shein last 5+ years – that IS sustainable. The issue comes when the cheaply made items breakdown. When evaluating purchasing decisions, I like to think of the cost per wear. A high-quality, more expensive item that lasts for years in the long run will cost you less per wear. Check out our selection below of the best sustainable alternatives to Shein that make similar stylish garments under much higher standards.

Buy Shein Items Second-hand

If you see something from Shein or another fast fashion retailed that you NEED to have – you can always find the piece second-hand. Anytime I visit my local thrift shop, because of the excessive buying nature of Shein, I always find Shein second hand items on the rack. Not to mention, you can use second-hand shopping apps to search specifically for the piece you are looking for. My favorites are Poshmark and Depop.

Brand alternative to shein

 

Rent your Clothing

Clothing rental companies like Nuuly and Rent the Runway are perfect if you like to switch up your wardrobe often but you don’t want to cause the excessive waste. They let you pick 5-7 clothes every month or couple of months to rent and then return (if you love it, you can buy it.) The clothes are normally higher quality, from expensive (and super cute) brands.

Brand alternative to shein

For Days

100% of For Days products are recyclable. They plan and design for the end of a product’s life at the beginning to make sure what is returned can go into future products. They have a program where they will even take back your old clothes that aren’t For Days!

NA-KD

To help their customers make sustainable choices, they tell them how, where and with what footprint their products are made. They have everything from shoes to sportswear to swimwear.

NA-KD – ECRU
Brand alternative to shein

Made Trade 

We did the hard work, so you don’t have to. All Made Trade products are independently verified and vetted for sustainable sourcing and fair labor practices.

Reformation

Reformation is a clothing brand that makes sustainable and fashionable clothes similar to SHEIN but of much higher quality. It offers a collection of stylish garments for petite up to extended sizes.

Reformation uses sustainable materials such as organic cotton, recycled cotton, linen, and Tencel lyocell. It also makes some of its clothes with upcycled and recycled materials, such as regenerated nylon or deadstock fabrics.

reformation ethical shein romwe alternative

 

Frankie

Canadian brand Frankie Collective is dedicated to innovating women’s streetwear while setting a standard for sustainability in the fashion industry. It takes inspiration from 90’s staples and reworks vintage garments to push the boundaries of contemporary style. Find most items in sizes XS to 2XL.

Whimsy + Row

Whimsy + Row is an eco-conscious lifestyle brand born out of a love for quality goods and sustainable practices. Since 2014, its mission has been to provide ease and elegance for the modern woman. Whimsy + Row utilizes deadstock fabric, and by limiting each garment to short runs, the brand also reduces packaging waste and takes care of precious water resources.

Brand alternative to shein

 

Afends

Born in Byron Bay, Afends is a responsible brand leading the way in hemp fashion. Drawing inspiration from the environment, streetwear, and surf culture, Afends’ mission is to create more sustainable clothing through innovation, action, and positive change.

CHNGE

CHNGE is a US-based sustainable fashion brand using 100% organic material, built to last a lifetime while making a statement.

Mud Jeans

MUD Jeans makes high quality, sustainable jeans. Recycling every single pair after use. Explore our circular denim collection.Mud brand alternative to shein

Tentree

Tentree creates clothing designed for a healthy, sustainable world. Made with hemp, cork & organic cotton. They plant 10 trees for every item purchases and have planted 50+ million so far.

Girlfriend Collective

Girlfriend Collective makes high quality clothes from recycled materials in sizes XXS-6XL. They believe where your clothes end up is just as important as where they come from, so they gladly recycle most old Girlfriend Collective pieces and turn them into future clothes.

Madewell

Chain featuring stylish apparel, including denim jeans, plus accessories, shoes & bags.

Madewell brand alternative to shein

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find other sustainable swaps on the Ripplfect Mobile App and get points for your sustainable purchases, track your impact and more! Download the Ripplfect Mobile App today. Also, Join our Newsletter to get swaps like this delivered straight to your inbox!

 

 

 

What is “Microplastic Pollution” & What Can You Do About It?

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In previous blogs  we’ve told you about how plastic pollution negatively impacts the environment, but what is microplastic pollution and what is it doing to the earth?
 

What is Microplastic Pollution?

 
They are not a new type of plastic, but small fragments of plastics of any type. It can take thousands of years for plastic to decompose on its own, however, external (water, sunlight, etc) factors break plastic into smaller pieces, creating microplastics. For a piece of plastic to be considered a microplastic, it must be between 5 millimeters and 100 nanometers across. Many microplastics are imperceptible to the human eye, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t there!
 
Microplastic pollution has been debated among environmentalists for many years. In January 2019, a comprehensive study revealed that microplastics are present in every part of the environment, classifying them as a global environmental problem.
 

Why is Microplastic Pollution Harmful?

 
Microplastic pollution is an especially harmful type of pollution, because of its nearly invisible nature. Since microplastics are so small, it is nearly impossible to remove them from the oceans.
 
Microplastic pollution is harmful for both humans and animals alike. Annually, over 100,000 marine organisms are killed due to microplastic pollution. Microplastics pass unchanged through waterways into the ocean, where aquatic life and birds can mistake microplastics for food. Once these organisms consume the microplastic (either directly or indirectly), they become contaminated by the toxins in the plastic.
 
Although there is scientific uncertainty when it comes to certain aspects of microplastic pollution, there is solid evidence that shows humans are similarly impacted, when they consume contaminated fish. As microplastics move up a food web, the toxins become more concentrated, so when the fish makes it to your plate on the table, there’s a good chance some of what you’re eating is microplastics. Frequent consumption of contaminated food can cause various health complications.
 

How are Microplastics Created?

 
There are two types of microplastics; primary microplastics and secondary microplastics. Primary microplastics are microplastics that are produced that way originally. Microbeads are a kind of primary microplastic that are very small pieces of manufactured polyethylene plastic added to health and beauty products as exfoliants (think of the plastic beads in exfoliating hand soaps and body washes). Secondary microplastics are microplastics that originate from bigger plastic debris that breaks down into smaller and smaller bits.
 
One of the biggest known sources of microplastics in the food production system is bottled water. When scientists reviewed a range of kinds of glass and plastic water bottles, they discovered microplastics in most of them.
 

The biggest contributor of microplastics however, is laundry! Surprising, yet true. When you wash fabrics that aren’t 100% cotton, silk, hemp, or bamboo, tiny synthetic fibers get washed away with the laundry water, and end up in the ocean. Microplastics make up roughly 85% of ocean pollution, and laundry makes up over 1/3 of that!
 
Although we don’t suggest replacing your entire wardrobe to be more ecologically friendly, we would urge you to be conscious of the fabrics you are purchasing and wearing. For more on sustainable fashion, read our blog post!
 

What Can You Do About Microplastic Pollution?

 
It doesn’t take much to do your part in reducing microplastic pollution. Here are a few simple suggestions:
 
Laundry:
 
1. Wash at cool temperatures—heat breaks down fabrics.
2. Skip the spin cycle—all that movement breaks down fabrics faster.
3. Air-dry—synthetics dry quickly anyway.
4. Use a plant-based detergent—it’s less harsh on your clothes and the ocean.
5. Purchase clothing that is 100% plant based (cotton, silk, hemp, or bamboo)
 
General:
 
1. When getting coffee, use your reusable cup, instead of a disposable one
2. Use reusable bags instead of single-use plastic ones
3. Properly dispose of any trash and recycling you produce
4. Boycott products produced with microbeads
5. Limit your consumption of fish

Waste Colonialism: Where in the World Does My Trash Go?

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For the gross amount of trash first world countries produce, landfills in their home countries are few and far between. Instead of dealing with the repercussions of huge amounts of waste, countries like the USA, Germany, and other affluent nations have discovered a way out. Bustling up cargo containers and shipping them off to sea, thousands of pounds of waste are shipped off to Turkey, Greece, Vietnam, and other countries with relaxed environmental regulations.

This fact is often hidden from the general public, left as one of the many secrets of where our trash actually goes.

What is waste colonialism?

Waste colonialism refers to the dumping of trash (mostly hazardous or dangerous waste) from developed, affluent nations into developing and under-regulated nations.  The term first appeared in 1989 at a UN convention after African nations expressed their concern for countries with high GDP dumping hazardous waste in low GDP countries (read more here). The transfer, not just of waste, but of hazardous waste in particular, was not uncommon during this time. With incidents such as the Cote d’Ivoire toxic waste dump, developing nations were in fear for their people and their land. In the same 1989 UN convention, an international agreement was made that regulated the disposal and transference of hazardous waste.

But, waste colonialism doesn’t always come in the form of toxic waste. In 2019, The Guardian uncovered the secret of America’s mismanaged recycling system that resulted in over 68,000 shipping containers worth of plastic waste being sent off to developing countries (read more here).

It’s been over 30 years since the 1989 UN agreement was made, and although toxic trash disposal is not as common, there are still pounds of trash and electronic waste making their way across the seas, and waste colonialism has not gone away in the slightest.

What’s wrong with waste colonialism?

Despite the obvious moral dilemma of burdening undeserving countries with hazardous waste, waste colonialism builds upon a much larger system of colonialism that has been in action for centuries. Though it has many branches, Colonialism in itself is a system of domination over land (read more here). Furthermore, the countries being affected by waste colonialism are the very same nations that have been affected by traditional colonialism in the past.

At its core, waste colonialism is about land. It’s about keep land available and clean for colonizing countries. It’s about reducing the available land size and quality for colonized countries. It’s about the privilege of being able to choose which land to pollute, and the privilege of avoiding consequences.

For the citizens of these affected nations, waste colonialism is not just about land. The dumping of hazardous waste can create serious negative health affects that not only impact their livelihood and health, but their job security, future family plans, food accessibility, and more.

Watch here for an explanation of waste colonialism from the perspective of a Ngāti Porou woman from the North Island of New Zealand.

What can we do about waste colonialism?

What we truly need is a global treaty with strict dumping regulations and harsh consequences for colonizing nations. To create a change we will also need new methods of waste disposal that are safe and ethical for all. Governments should help fund the clean up of effected nations and work to treat and assist effected populations.

On an individual level, we can advocate for change at the state and federal levels. There are a multitude of organizations working to fight waste colonialism that we can support:

 

Super-Leverage Points Could Help with Decarbonization

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What are super-leverage points and how can they help save the future of our planet?

Super-leverage points are interventions that create large impacts in one sector but also speed up progress in other areas of the economy (read more here). In terms of sustainability, these super-leverage points are where we can make huge change across entire countries.

The report that identified these points was an international group consisting of the University of Exeter and Systemiq. So what are the tipping points that can create monumental progress?

Legislation for “green ammonia” fertilizer

Green ammonia is created with renewable energy and is less environmentally damaging and resource taxing than traditional fertilizers. In fact, using green ammonia fertilizer can reduce a farm’s carbon footprint by 90% for small grain crops (read more here). Implementing a mandate for green ammonia fertilizers could be groundbreaking for both agriculture and fuel. Green ammonia not only eliminates the need for fossil fuels to be used in fertilizer production, but the mandate would also make green ammonia more accessible, allowing it to be used for fuel and energy storage.

Legislation for electric vehicle sales

If state and federal governments begin to move toward mandates for electric vehicle sales, we could reach the super-leverage point that would allow for huge decarbonization. While this also needs to coincide with increased production and economic incentives for the population, transitioning to electric vehicles is very much in reach. For example, look at California and their new legislation. Not only was the mandate well received, but it was implemented in a way that both encouraged and supported the slow and steady transition to EVs.

Public procurement of plant-based proteins

While most of us know that the switch towards meat alternatives is a necessary one in preserving our planet, expanding these alternatives from personal diet choices to public provided options could help us reach the tipping point. Procuring plant-based proteins for meals in hospitals, schools, and government facilities could be the next step we need. Providing plant-based proteins in these spaces could free up between 400-800 million hectares of agricultural land, which equates to 7-15% of all agricultural land currently in use (read more here). The switch towards plant-based proteins will not only free up land, but it will also reduce greenhouse gas emissions, especially methane from cows.

So, what can we do?

While we encourage and wait for these mandates and practices to be implemented, we can do our personal best to help reach these super-leverage tipping points. On our own we can opt for meat alternatives, choose produce from more sustainable farms that use green ammonia, and look into electric vehicles the next time a new car is needed. We still need to make sure that we support the mandates and practices in public ways, since a large-scale implementation will be what really tips us over the edge.

Solving Climate Crisis Induced Food Insecurity

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Seawater inundation is having a global effect on agriculture due to rising sea levels, monster storms, and flooding. This has caused many acres of farmland worldwide to become almost useless since the saltwater infiltrates the soil, making it almost impossible for plants to absorb the water and grow.

However, there may be a solution on the rise.

ESA EarthObservation on Twitter: "Reliable, accurate and long-term observations of sea-level rise and its impact in the coastal zone are vital to be able to plan and better protect the 10% of

Rice and Salinity

Consumed by over 3.5 billion people per day, rice is without a doubt, the world’s most popular crop. Yet, rice is one of the crops affected most by seawater inundation (read more here).  Even minor changes in the soil water’s salinity can affect growth rate and final yield. Protecting growing conditions for rice and other crops becomes more important by the day.

Global sea levels are projected to rise between 2-5 ft by 2100 (read more here). This would devastate countries, the agricultural industry, and billions of people if we are unable to find a solution.

IPCC Report: Sea Level Rise Is a Present and Future Danger | NRDC

The Solution

With seawater inundation becoming more pressing, researchers at the University of Sheffield are working on a solution for growing rice. The research has concluded that genetically modifying rice plants to reduce the number of stomata could be the solution.

The stomata in rice plants regulate water loss and CO2 intake, so reducing the total number of them would allow for more water to be absorbed despite the salinity of the soil water. Rice with fewer stomata need 60% less water than average rice plants, which is ideal for the salty conditions.

The researchers investigated 72 different species of rice, even dwarf varieties, in order to make their findings. Dwarf rice varieties, as it turns out, create a much higher yield than normal rice varieties.

In a similar vein, the researchers are also attempting to create heat-resistant rice crops, which could be exponentially helpful in the coming decades. Rice with larger stomata work very well in hot climates (read more here).

Free Close-Up Photo Of Rice Plains Stock Photo

The Next Steps

The genetic modification of rice is a forward thinking action that could save lives in coming decades. Being able to rely on the food sources we have now is vital to the global health of the planet. Genetically modifying rice would also allow it to be grown in new parts of the world that its previously not been able to tolerate.

We have to move away from the blanket fear of genetically modified foods and embrace the solutions of our future that will save us from food insecurity.

Earth Win: Hole in the Ozone Layer to Close by 2066

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In a great start to 2023, a United Nations report projects the hole in our ozone layer to close by 2066. Thanks to a global agreement to limit use of ozone depleting substances, 35 years later we are seeing noticeable and healing changes.

Antarctic ozone map for 2023-01-10

Nasa Ozone Watch

The UN report is conducted every four years and helps to track the progress and status of the ozone. While steady progress has been ongoing for the past couple decades, having an estimated timeline in the near future is a huge stride towards replenishing our planet (read more here).

The Highlights 

  • The ozone layer will return to 1980 values as soon as 2040 in some locations.
  • In Antartica, and more heavily affected areas, the ozone layer will return to 1980 values by 2066.
  • China has mostly eliminated additional ODS emissions (read more here)
  • The peak destruction of the ozone layer has passed

 

Why Do We Need the Ozone?

Since the thinning of the ozone was first brought to public attention in the 1970s, there have been huge efforts to fight its decay. The Montreal Protocol, which first regulated Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS), has been in place since 1987 and has reduced global ODS by 98% compared to 1990 levels. This wide scale success is due in part to how essential the ozone layer is to life on Earth.

It’s estimated that the effects of the Montreal Protocol annually save 2 million people from skin cancer. The ozone layer is meant to protect the Earth from UV radiation, while still allowing safe light to pass through. The ozone absorbs about 98% of harmful UV radiation; a process upon which animals, plants, and humans are dependent for survival (read more here).

NASA Viz: A World Without The Montreal Protocol

NASA Visualization Explorer

Successful Action 

The Montreal Protocol and the globe’s commitment to following regulations is a success story we cannot take for granted. While ozone depletion is not directly linked to climate change, they go hand in hand with their solutions. Having a worldwide agreement that countries can commit and follow is impressive in itself, and serves as a great example for what can be done for climate change solutions.

Our progress towards healing the ozone layer is monumental. If we continue at this rate, the possibility for enacting real global action against climate change is almost in our fingertips.

Is Living Sustainably Actually More Expensive?

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Throughout my journey towards sustainability, I have heard dozens of excuses from others about why they couldn’t possibly live a more sustainable life. The most common was: “It’s too expensive”. And don’t get me wrong, I completely understand why, at first glance, it can seem that way, but today we’re going to be busting that myth.

I have been trying to reduce my impact for just over three years now. I was raised fairly sustainably, but it wasn’t until I realized how much of an impact I have on the Earth, that I decided to double down. I realized that I spend less money now than when I was a mindless consumer. I deeply feel that sustainable living is inexpensive and that there is a huge misconception around that lifestyle.

To compare “sustainable living” and “standard living” as objectively as I could, I adopted a very practical approach to budgeting.

Why Do I Believe Sustainable Living is Inexpensive?

My consumption and my spending drastically decreased so I use the extra dollars on products and services that I know are sustainable. To me, sustainability cannot be expensive if learned and applied it correctly. Unfortunately, we understand it wrong due to several factors.

  • Social media and media pressure give a wrong image of sustainability. They push us to over-consume and make us crave what we do not have.

  • Greenwashing convinces us that we need a green alternative (or two!) for every single product we should give up. For instance, you do not need 10 organic, vegan, cruelty-free skincare products daily, even though they come in recycled packaging. The same conclusion for reusable straw: do you need them?

  • Misinformation spreads much faster than scientific peer-reviewed articles. Data and figures around the impact of fashion (read more here) are all over the internet. It often encourages us to take massive actions, such as a total wardrobe makeover, which creates far more waste, than slowly increasing the number of sustainable garments you own. Buying from ethical brands that manufacture their garments in upcycled nylon might seem like a great idea, but we later learn they release microplastic in water which ends up polluting our oceans (read more here). It’s important to take a step back and look at your actions in a holistic sense.

  • Society itself still shares the wrong messages and expects us to look beautiful and successful while being sustainable. Success could be defined by how many green alternatives we own and how many eco-resorts we visited. I encourage you to read Why Women Will Save the Planet by Friends Of The Earth. A few chapters give a very understandable definition of green economies and explain why there are no other suitable alternatives. I believe that if we truly desire to be sustainable, we need to review our fundamental values and define our success based on intrinsic satisfaction. In his book, There Is No Planet B Mike Berners Lee shares a good list of skills we should develop to face challenges, including mindfulness.

If we go past misinformation, greenwashing, media, and societal pressure by educating ourselves and doing some inner work, sustainable living no longer appears to have such a hefty price tag.

Let’s Do the Math!

Although the previous statement makes a lot of sense to me, the proof is necessary! I decided to analyze the spending patterns of a “normal” (unsustainable) lifestyle, a sustainable lifestyle as pictured by the media, and a real sustainable lifestyle.

I included the spending categories as defined by the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics and focused on the categories that I believe are affected by the level of sustainability we adopt.

 

While I wanted to find peer-reviewed research clearly stating the money implications of a sustainable lifestyle, these were impossible to find. Besides, researchers still lack some data and time to conduct proper studies. For instance, we cannot measure the medical treatment savings generated by sustainable living yet as a few generations are necessary to gather a reliable data sample.

So, I used my common sense (and lots of Google searches…) and a color code to analyze the spending variations between the three lifestyles.

The color code is as follows:

  • In dark green: costs that are a lot lower compared to the “normal” lifestyle

  • In light green: costs that are lower than the “normal” lifestyle’s costs

  • In white: costs are the same compared to the “normal” lifestyle

  • In orange: costs that are higher compared to the “normal” lifestyle

  • In red: costs that are a lot higher compared to the “normal” lifestyle

To be able to do the math, I assigned numbers to colors: dark green: -2; light green: -1; white: 0; orange: +1; red: +2 and finally I summed them up.

Here are the results of my work :

Click anywhere on the spreadsheet to view it larger!

After doing the analysis and the math, I found that a sustainable lifestyle as pictured on Instagram is more expensive (+5) than a normal lifestyle while a “real” sustainable lifestyle is a lot cheaper (-12). After doing that research as objectively as I could with the data I could gather, I did find that a sustainable lifestyle is not more expensive than a traditional one. The well-known impression that it must be more expensive is based on misconceptions and misinformation.

I hope that this post will put an end to the ‘sustainable living is expensive’ myth and encourage people to take the leap and join the sustainable revolution.

10 Must-Watch Documentaries on Sustainability

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When I want to do a deep-dive into something new, I often look towards documentaries for digestible, preliminary information. With everyone (supposed to be) staying in right now, I thought it would be a great time to give you my top 10 sustainability documentary recommendations! I have included the trailers so you can get a better idea of what each film is like. With that being said, grab some popcorn and a blanket, and get ready to learn something new!

1. Expedition Happiness (2017)

This endearing and heartfelt documentary will make you fall in love with tiny living. Felix and Selima convert an old school bus into a tiny home and set out for a year of travel with their dog Rudi. This documentary provides a fun and realistic way of life on the road, living a zero-waste life, and the true beauty of nature and the trials of tiny living.

Available on Netflix and YouTube.

2. Minimalism: A Documentary About the Important Things (2015)

I sat down with this film not too long ago.

Much lighter than the former documentary, “Minimalism” explores how our lives might be better with less by taking viewers inside the lives of minimalists from all walks of life. I’ll just be honest here: I instantly started de-cluttering. 

Available on Netflix.

3. The 11th Hour (2007)

Leonardo Dicaprio fans, rejoice! And then cry, because “The 11th Hour” is no joke. This 2007 film explores how humanity has arrived at the 11th hour – the last possible moment that change is possible for our planet and its ecosystems. Featuring ongoing dialogues of experts including former Soviet Prime Minister Mikhail Gorbachev, renowned scientist Stephen Hawking, and sustainable design expert William McDonough, “The 11th Hour” is a dense film that is likely to rattle you.

Available on Amazon Prime Video & DVD.

4. No Impact Man (2009)

This guy… Self-proclaimed “No Impact Man,” Colin Beavan swore off plastic and toxins, turned off his electricity, went organic, and started riding his bicycle exclusively for an entire year. Reviewed as a “sensational, funny, and consciousness-raisin story,” I think “No Impact Man” is a fun way to learn about zero impact living. 

Available on Amazon Prime Video.

5. Forks Over Knives (2011)

As someone who is working her way toward a fully plant-based diet, “Forks Over Knives” has definitely stuck out to me. If you’ve ever struggled with a chronic disease like obesity, cardiovascular disease, or cancer, “Forks Over Knives” says you should blame processed animal-based foods. For anyone interested in nutrition and health sciences, this is a must-watch!

Available on Amazon Prime Video & Netflix.

6. More than Honey (2012)

Did you know that if bees were to disappear from the globe, mankind would have only four years left to live? Not great. In “More Than Honey,” Oscar-nominated director Markus Imhoof tackles the issue of why bees are facing worldwide extinction. I have a feeling it’s our fault. Anyone else curious?

Available on Amazon Prime Video.

7. Happy (2011)

“Happy” is one of those films that has everyone talking! In the film, filmmaker and director Roko Belic sets out to travel the world with the intention of discovering the meaning of happiness. Belic was inspired to make the film after coming across an article in The New York Times entitled, “A New Measure of Well Being From a Happy Little Kingdom.” The article ranked the United States as the 23rd happiest country in the world.

Available on Amazon Prime Video.

8. Cowspiracy (2014)

I firmly believe that watching “Cowspiracy” should be a requirement for every environmentalist. Rather than taking a purely ‘save the animals’ stance on animal agriculture, “Cowspiracy” digs deep into its environmental impact as the leading cause of carbon emissions, global warming, deforestation, and just about everything else. Watched this for the first time as a junior in high school and it truly changed my mindset on what it means to live sustainable. If you watch anything on this list, this has to be it.

Available on Netflix.

9. Planet Earth (2006)

This David Attenborough documentary celebrates the amazing variety and beauty of the natural world. Filmed over four years and across 64 different countries, there are few films that compare in terms of scope. It’s a classic for a reason!

Available on Netflix and (some) on YouTube.

10. The True Cost (2015)

“The True Cost” pulls back the curtain on the fashion industry to give viewers an honest look at the human and environmental costs of producing clothing. I thought this documentary was genuinely eye-opening; I haven’t been able to look at the clothes in my closet the same way since. Highly, highly recommend!

Available on Amazon Prime Video.

We hope you enjoy these sustainable focused documentaries!

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