FILTER
ASK EARTHA: THE PIZZA BOX DEBATE

Dear Eartha, My friend posted an article on Facebook that says greasy pizza boxes can now be recycled, but I was told they belong in the trash. What’s the deal, are greasy pizza boxes recyclable? To start, let’s get one thing straight – in Summit County, greasy pizza boxes belong in the trash. This question […]

ASK EARTHA: EARTH OVERSHOOT DAY

Dear Eartha, Last week, a friend mentioned Earth Overshoot Day. Can you explain what it is? When we hear the word “overshoot” we might associate it with a positive statement – “Wow, you really overshot your goals!” Unfortunately, Earth Overshoot Day is nothing to celebrate. Simply put, Earth Overshoot Day is the date when we […]

ASK EARTHA: Climate & Wildfires

Dear Eartha, I know wildfires are a normal part of our mountain ecosystem, but I can’t help but wonder if climate change is making fires worse. Is it? As I write these words, I am breathing a sigh of relief – for the first time in several days, I can clearly see the mountains outside […]

ASK EARTHA: Environmental Labels

Dear Eartha, I want to be an educated shopper, but I don’t have time to read every label in the grocery store. How do I shop with the environment in mind without wasting time? It’s easy to get overwhelmed in the grocery store. With all the green jargon like, “natural” and “locally-sourced”, how do any of […]

ASK EARTHA: Sustainable Habits After Lock Down

Dear Eartha, during the COVID lock-down, I saw stories about clearer skies, cleaner waterways and our planet getting a break. How do we get back to normal without sacrificing these benefits?  As the pandemic continues, we all have the natural desire for things to get “back to normal”. But, in our rush to recover and […]

ASK EARTHA: How to Reduce Food Waste

Dear Eartha, I recently joined the Food Scrap Program and it made me realize how much food I’m wasting. Is it a big deal since my leftovers end up as compost? Nice work keeping your food scraps out of the landfill! For most people, it is normal to discard old leftovers or that expired cheese […]

ASK EARTHA: Grow to Share

Dear Eartha, my garden is growing like crazy this summer! I don’t think I will be able to eat all of my veggies. Is there something I can do with the extras? There is only so much fresh spinach one person can use and freeze! Now that you’ve realized you won’t be able to eat […]

ASK EARTHA: What to Know About Building Codes

Dear Eartha, I’ve been hearing some rumblings about new construction codes in the county. As a local Realtor, what should I know about these updated codes? Will these changes improve the energy efficiency of new homes? With a new set of codes in effect across the community, sustainable construction has certainly taken a step forward. […]

ASK EARTHA: Plastic-Free July

Dear Eartha, I just learned it’s Plastic-free July. Between COVID guidelines and my takeout addiction, how can I reduce plastic use?    As you’ve heard, Plastic-free July is a global movement inspiring people across the planet to ditch single-use plastics for the entire month. It’s a challenge to consider your daily habits and continue on […]

ASK EARTHA: Environmental & Social Justice

Dear Eartha, I’ve heard recently about the link between environmental issues and social justice. I don’t fully understand the connection, can you explain?  If you’ve ever seen photos of a climate change rally, you might have noticed signs that say things like, “Climate justice is social justice,” or “Environmental justice for all.” Though the connections […]