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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 […]

ASK EARTHA: Rx For Home Energy Efficiency

Dear Eartha, I saw an ad in the paper advertising free home energy assessments. I’ve been thinking of signing up because my energy bills are so high. What can I expect from the process? As dedicated readers know, I’m all about conservation. And I especially love energy efficiency because it’s not only good for the […]

ASK EARTHA: 5 Ways to Reduce Plastic at the Grocery Store

Dear Eartha, I try to avoid plastic when I go grocery shopping, but it seems practically impossible. What can I do? The grocery store can be stressful enough remembering COVID-19 precautions, dodging your chatty neighbor, and managing coupon expiration dates, not to mention reducing plastic waste. Right here in Summit County, for every 100 pounds […]

Ask Eartha: Reducing Indoor Water Use

Dear Eartha, my friends just remodeled their bathroom and upgraded to a low-flow toilet. Does that really have an impact? On average in the United States, water from the tap, toilet, dishwasher, and other appliances adds up to about 138 gallons per household per day. That’s roughly 60 gallons per person per day, and it’s […]

ASK EARTHA: Going Solar

Dear Eartha, my neighbor just installed solar panels on her house. I’ve been thinking about solar too, but don’t know where to start. Do you have any ideas? As John Krasinski – you might know him as Jim from “The Office” – has weekly reminded his YouTube audience, despite the weirdness we’re all living through, […]

ASK EARTHA: Household Hazardous Waste Disposal

Dear Eartha, I’ve been cleaning out my house and I’ve got a bunch of old paint and two computers. There’s usually a recycling event in spring. What’s going on with that? As you know, times are anything but usual right now, and gatherings are not currently allowed. That means the annual spring recycling event is […]