24
Feb, 2021

Light Pollution and Its Consequences

Light gives us a sense of security and ensures that when it is already dark, we can continue to work, move around quickly, and so many other things. Nowadays, you will see cities, harbors, oil platforms, and even ships are illuminated. Coastlines are recognizable, and densely populated areas are visible. Unfortunately, lights have adverse effects too. That is why we also talk about light pollution. Let’s see some of the negative effects of light pollution and what we can do to avoid them:

Light Pollution and Its Consequences for Nature

In recent years it has become increasingly clear that artificial light has an impact on nature. Researchers have discovered that artificial light alters animals’ behavior; they become disoriented, do not hibernate, do not hunt, or do not reach their mating grounds. Here are some examples:

  • Migratory birds that fly at night become disoriented by artificial light. These birds often use the stars for orientation, but in cloudy or foggy weather, artificial light can cause birds to fly in the wrong direction, causing them to become exhausted. They fly into large sources of artificial light, such as lighted oil rigs. Or they get “trapped” in so-called skylights, the reflection of artificial light (from cities, roads, industrial estates, etc.) in the clouds.
  • Light pollution is one of the leading causes of the decline of moths in the Netherlands.
    They become disoriented, can be damaged, eat less, reproduction slows down, and their biological clock (spring, summer, autumn, winter) is interrupted.
  • The behavior of bats is disturbed by artificial light. The slow-flying species of bats, in particular, avoid light because they easily fall prey in the light. Faster flying species (such as the Pipistrelle Bat) do come closer.

Paris, France, Tour Eiffel, Nuit, Nuit Paris, Ville

Artificial Light and the Negative Consequences for Humans

  • Artificial light also has an impact on our sleep rhythm. Since the advent of electric lamps, we sleep 1.5 hours less. The hormone that ensures our sleep is less produced by light.
  • Besides, we can enjoy the starry sky less because of all that light. In the darkest places on Earth, you can see many more stars. It is a pity that we miss out on this piece of nature because we have so many lights on.

Tips to Avoid Light Pollution

 

1) Garden Lighting

Do not light the garden or light it as little as possible. The less light we produce (especially outdoors), the less light pollution will be produced. A motion sensor can be a good solution if you still want to illuminate the garden. For example, to feel safe or find your way to the garage when you come home with your bike. Choose a warm orange/red color and a low illuminance. For most species, this seems to cause the least harm.

Consider the direction of your lights. Want to illuminate the front door? Then choose a lamp that shines downward and not in all directions. Avoid lamps shining directly toward the sky.

2) Home Lighting

If you turn on interior lights, close the curtains and/or blinds. In this way, we limit the radiation from homes.

3) Food

Choose local and seasonal vegetables as much as possible. This signifies fewer greenhouses are needed, which means less light pollution.

4) Outdoor Lighting

Pay attention to the office’s lighting, warehouse, or the store where you work or in the school and sports hall. Will the light stay on all afternoon or perhaps all night? Check with your co-workers, security, the building manager, the janitor to see if the canteen people can turn off the lights earlier.

Field hockey fields, soccer fields, tennis courts, athletic fields, and other sports fields or courts are also places where a lot of lighting is applied so that you can keep playing when the sun goes down. Do you or any of your children play such a sport? Then pay attention to the lighting. If you are no longer playing on a field, are the lights turned off? Are there lights on the fields where you are not playing? Talk to the coach, trainer, or canteen people to see if lights can be turned off when the field is not in use.

Adulte, Flou, Bokeh, Ville, Soirée, Lumière, L'Homme

Do you have any other tips to avoid light pollution? Let us know in the comments below!

23
Feb, 2021

COMPOSTING: SIMPLE AND NATURAL WAY TO SAVE OUR PLANET (Part 3)

This post is a continuation of Part 2 on COMPOSTING: SIMPLE AND NATURAL WAY TO SAVE OUR PLANET. Lately, in part 1, we have gone through:

– COMPOSTING IN PRACTICE

– HOW TO COMPOST?

In part 2, we covered the following:

– CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE COMPOSTERS

– WHAT TO COMPOST?

– WHAT IS VERMICOMPOSTING?

In this final part, we will see:

– WHAT IS HERBICYCLING?

– THE COMPOST IS READY!

– TIPS FOR COMPOSTING

WHAT IS HERBICYCLING?

Garden waste can be composted. However, grass clippings are often too much material for a composter. The solution? Grasscycling, which involves leaving the grass in place after mowing, is an environmentally friendly method of fertilizing the lawn. Grass clippings, which consist mainly of water, provide a vital nitrogen supply and affect soil moisture and help protect the lawn from certain diseases.

Many municipalities encourage grasscycling among their citizens through awareness campaigns. Some have even adopted regulations prohibiting the collection of grass with green waste or household garbage.

Some practical advice:

– Mow the lawn regularly, at the height of about 7 cm (3 inches) but never less than 4 cm (1.5 inches), and when the grass is dry.

– Make sure the mower blade is sharp or use a mulching blade to reduce the size of grass clippings, which increases the rate of decomposition.

– If mowing is too late, collect the grass clippings and deposit a 15-centimeter (6-inch) thickness in the compost bin or use it as mulch.

THE COMPOST IS READY!

It is relatively simple to recognize a mature compost: dark brown, it looks like good soil, has a good humus smell, and you can no longer identify the residues used (except for some materials that are difficult to compost, such as eggshells).

How to use the compost?

Compost is not a fertilizer but an excellent amendment for garden soil because it nourishes the soil, improves its structure and aeration, and increases its water retention capacity. You can use it both indoors and outdoors:

– Mix in the first six inches of garden soil and use it around trees, shrubs, vegetables, and flowers.

– Mix into your plant and transplant soil (at about one-third compost by volume).

– Spread the sieved compost on the lawn after aerating it.

To speed up the process

You will quickly learn how to make compost. To improve your practice, you need to know the factors that can influence the maturation time:

– The right proportion of wet and dry matter

– The size of the residues used (the smaller the pieces used, the faster the process)

– The proper ventilation and the right degree of humidity

– The method used and the volume of material composted

TIPS FOR COMPOSTING

You will increase your chances of success if composting is not complicated!

– Keep a re-sealable container in the kitchen in which to put your table scraps. An attractive stainless steel container placed near the sink is convenient.

– If you generate a lot of waste and you have room, use two composters: while the compost matures in one container, you use the other one every day.

– You can place residues in the compost bin all winter long. The decomposition process is slower or stops when the pile is frozen, but it starts again quickly in the spring, after a good turn.

– Empty the compost bin as much as possible in the fall to make room.

– If you don’t have a garden, you’ll be happy to donate your compost to a school or community group for use in their landscaping.

The United States is the only developed country whose waste production exceeds its recycling capacity, underscoring a lack of political will and infrastructure investment. The United States has a better recycling capacity than most countries globally, but the amount of waste produced is not treated in the same way. As responsible citizens, we need to take care of our waste, and composting is a natural and straightforward way to save our planet.

Don’t forget to share and comment on this article. Please, feel free to share your link to related posts that promote the sustainability of our planet.

23
Feb, 2021

COMPOSTING: SIMPLE AND NATURAL WAY TO SAVE OUR PLANET (Part 2)

This post is a continuation of Part 1 on COMPOSTING: SIMPLE AND NATURAL WAY TO SAVE OUR PLANET. Lately, we have gone through

– COMPOSTING IN PRACTICE

– HOW TO COMPOST?

We will now cover:

– CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE COMPOSTERS

– WHAT TO COMPOST?

– WHAT IS VERMICOMPOSTING?

CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE COMPOSTERS

To help you choose the right composter, here are a few useful questions:

– How much space do I have?

– Is the appearance of the composter important?

– What is my budget?

– Are there any municipal bylaws that govern the use or size of composters?

– Does my city or a local organization subsidize the purchase of composters or provide composting training?

There are many models, some very elegant! Most hardware stores and garden centers carry them. But why not have one made of wood by a social economy enterprise or a local craftsman? It’s also not very complicated to make your composter.

If you have a large plot of land, you can compost “in a pile”: in a remote corner, pile the waste. Make piles and turn them regularly to activate fermentation. The natural watering and the large surface area (oxygenation) will be your advantages.

The essential characteristics of the composter

A cover to protect the compost from rain and snow and control the compost’s moisture content.

– Holes or openings to promote air circulation

– A means of removing the final product, usually a hatch at the bottom of the composter

WHAT TO COMPOST?

Two types of residues to be mixed:

– Wet, rich in nitrogen (also called green matter)

– Dry, carbon-rich (also called brown matter)

To obtain an optimal maturation of the compost, mix about 1/3 wet material for 2/3 dry material.

Wet materials

Wet waste contains water, which is very useful in the process, but on its own, it settles and suffocates, generating juice spills and unpleasant odors.

– Fruit and vegetable peelings and leftovers

– Green garden waste: wilted flowers, pruning residues, mowing residues, weeds (without ripe seeds), etc.

Dry matter

Rather carbonaceous waste composts very slowly if left alone.

– Tea, herbal tea, and coffee grounds bags (with filter)

– Leftover bread, rice, pasta, legumes

– Nutshells

– Crushed eggshells (contain mineral elements and facilitate aeration)

– Dried tree leaves (they decompose faster if they are shredded)

– Dry grass

– Old potting soil

– Straw, hay, sawdust, twigs,

– Newsprint paper

– Animal hair and hair

Materials to avoid

– Meat, fish, shellfish, and bones

– Dairy products

– Fats and oils

– Plastic

– Metals

– Animal excrement and litter

– Rhubarb leaves

– Seeded or crawling weeds

– Diseased plants or foliage

– Wood ash

– Lime (lime)

– Barbecue briquettes

– Contents of the vacuum bag

– Dryer Lint

– Materials contaminated with pesticides or hazardous materials (e.g., treated wood)

WHAT IS VERMICOMPOSTING?

Vermicomposting is the solution for people who don’t own land to set up a composter or don’t want to use their composters during the winter. This type of composting is also very popular with children!

This method involves making compost using red worms – a different kind of earthworm from the worms found in the garden – available at various locations. These worms consume and digest a phenomenal amount of waste, quickly producing rich compost.

It’s easy to make a vermicomposter. You can set it up outdoors, but you must provide an indoor space for the cold season as the worms would not survive.

The rest of the topic (below) will continue in part 3:

– WHAT IS HERBICYCLING?

– THE COMPOST IS READY!

– And the final point will cover TIPS FOR COMPOSTING

Stay posted, and don’t forget to comment and share!

23
Feb, 2021

COMPOSTING: SIMPLE AND NATURAL WAY TO SAVE OUR PLANET (Part 1)

 Summary

– COMPOSTING IN PRACTICE

– HOW TO COMPOST?

– CHOOSING THE APPROPRIATE COMPOSTERS

– WHAT TO COMPOST?

– WHAT IS VERMICOMPOSTING?

– WHAT IS HERBICYCLING?

– THE COMPOST IS READY!

– TIPS FOR COMPOSTING

 

The USA alone produced 292.4 million tons of municipal solid waste (MSW) in 2018. This means 4.9 pounds per inhabitant per day. Of the MSW generated, 69 million tons were recycled and 25 million tons composted. (the United States Environmental Protection Agency, National Overview: Facts and Figures on Materials, Wastes, and Recycling).

According to The Guardian (July 2019), the US produces far more waste and recycles far less of it than other developed countries. 

These figures come when the world faces a growing waste crisis in developing countries and oceans. The United States is at a crossroads, with China and other developing countries refusing to continue accepting their waste, the report’s authors say.

 The US has only 4 percent of the world’s population but produces 12 percent of the world’s municipal solid waste. By comparison, China and India account for more than 36% of the world’s population and produce 27% of the world’s municipal solid waste.

 While Americans recycle only 35% of their municipal waste, Germany, the most efficient country, recycles 68%.

Composting is an easy, environmentally friendly way to reduce these materials destined for landfill or incineration.

This practice reduces the many negative impacts of the transportation and disposal of waste: air, soil, and water pollution, not to mention the effects on human health, fauna, and flora.

The return to the earth of waste that is not waste.

Naturally, organic matter decomposes when exposed to air. Over time, it forms a soil that allows nutrients to return to the ground. Composting speeds up this decomposition.

Many organic materials, representing up to 30% of our household waste contents, can be composted: fruit and vegetable peels, coffee grounds, dead leaves, etc. With minimal maintenance, the compost is ripe within a few months and then becomes a high-quality amendment for flower beds, vegetable gardens, flower boxes, lawns, etc.

Don’t forget: many municipalities have waste management programs and offer information and sometimes even composters. Contact your local government to find out about these programs or to suggest their implementation.

COMPOSTING IN PRACTICE

Composting is a process of biological transformation of organic matter in the presence of water and oxygen. Fermentation occurs, and micro-organisms transform the waste into compost after maturation: a stabilized, hygienic and humus-rich product, very useful in the garden.

HOW TO COMPOST?

Composting is not complicated. By respecting a few basic rules and by organizing yourself well, this gesture quickly becomes quite natural.

First of all, organic matter requires adequate humidity, oxygen, and various residues to decompose. It is therefore essential to:

– Mix the different organic wastes

– Aerate and stir the mixture – to promote the micro-organisms’ action and homogenize the resulting mix.

– Ensure that the compost is not soaking wet but moist.

In practice, here are the steps to follow after choosing your composter:

1. Place the bin on a flat, well-drained surface that is easily accessible year-round and preferably in an area that is neither too sunny nor too shady.

2. Turn the soil in the area where you will install the compost bin.

3. After placing the compost bin, cover the bottom with a row of small branches to allow air to circulate and improve drainage.

4. Alternate between wet (kitchen scraps) and dry (dead leaves) waste. It is best to always finish with a layer of dry residue or potting soil to avoid odors.

5. Initially, add mature compost, garden soil, or a starter (available at garden centers) to your waste. This speeds up the composting process. You can repeat this process as needed.

6. At least twice a month, turn the fermenting compost pile over with a fork or shovel to aerate it, speed up decomposition and avoid odors.

7. Your compost bin should allow you to collect mature compost through a door at the bottom of the pile: as the residues are piled up, they decompose at the base and become compost.

This post will now continue in part 2. Stay posted, and remember to leave your comments below. 

23
Feb, 2021

Green and Eco-Friendly Destinations – Part 2

“Responsible travel to natural areas leads to the conservation of the environment and the improvement of the welfare of local people.”

– The International Ecotourism Society

Are you in search of a green vacation? Are you looking for eco-conscious destinations? If so, then scroll down to learn about some of the best green destinations!

Galápagos Islands – Ecuador

Found in the Pacific Ocean, the Galápagos Islands is a UNESCO world heritage site that is made up of a series of volcanic islands. The processes that formed the islands are reflected through the ongoing seismic and volcanic activity that have also led to the development of unusual fauna like the giant tortoise and land iguana. However, the most interesting fact is how the Galápagos Islands inspired Charles Darwin’s Theory of Evolution following his visit there in 1835.

Now let’s discover what makes the Galápagos Islands an environmentally-friendly destination!

Firstly, according to Global Ideas – a multimedia project that aims to report on biodiversity conservation – in the Galápagos Islands, people and organizations work together to protect native species from the effects of climate change.

Moreover, the use of renewable energies is cleaning up electricity production. For example, the Island of Floreana, also known as “Santa Maria Island”, is powered by electricity which is generated from Jatropha seeds. The Jatropha is a flowering plant from the spurge family which can be used for biodiesel production and medicinal uses. Farmers who have been cultivating this plant were rewarded with a significant economic boost.

Another important green aspect of the Galápagos Islands is the Pikaia Lodge, one of the most luxurious and eco-friendly hotels. But what makes this hotel a sustainable one? With its walls covered with lave stone collected from certain areas and sustainable teak doors and furniture, this innovative carbon-neutral hotel aims at protecting the fragile environment. Besides, the lodge has its own reforestation program, where approximately 10 000 endemic plants were grown and rooftop rain harvesting systems were installed.

Terme di Saturnia- Italy

Known as a fascinating attraction in Tuscany, this hot spring was previously a Roman’s preferred bathing spot over 2000 years ago. It has been said that it was created by none other than Jupiter, the god of sky and thunder from Ancient Roman mythology..

The spring water is about 99 degrees Fahrenheit, making it warm enough to swim. The natural water is also noted to have unique elements in reducing acne problems. If you ever find yourself traveling to Tuscany, you need to stop by Terme di Saturnia!

Catalonia – Spain

Situated in Spain’s northeastern corner, Catalonia is one of the country’s most prosperous and most highly industrialized regions. It has a distinct story that originates back to the early middle ages. However, we are more interested in its green and sustainable aspects.

Did you know that Catalonia was the first region to obtain the Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification? What is it exactly? The Biosphere Responsible Tourism certification is scheme set up by both UNESCO and the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GTSC), which provides an internationally recognized sustainability certification, meaning that the awarded city complies with the principles of sustainability. As a result, in Catalonia, you will find many green businesses with an EU Ecolabel, awarded for environmental excellence.

Furthermore, some places in the region like some former coal, lead and salt mines were turned into cultural and environmental areas. Another interesting place is the Fígols-Vallcebre Fumanya, which is considered as one of the most important places in Europe due to its Cretaceous fossil remains. This paleontological area, located in Alt Berguedà, contains several fossilized dinosaur footprints. The Cardona Salt Mountain Cultural Park, found on a hilltop, was previously one of the world’s major potassium chloride mines. However, after closing in the 1990s, it has become a cultural facility that visitors the unique chance to learn about the importance of salt and its exceptional geology.

Among these three locations, which one will you visit first? Please share your comments!

22
Feb, 2021

10 Sustainable Fabrics Made of Plants and Food

We are more and more aware of the polluting nature of current fashion and the need to establish slow and sustainable fashion as the only option for consuming this industry. Often, the label “sustainable” or “recycled” is accompanied by companies’ eco-washing to sell a product that is not green as organic. To know how to distinguish what is “green-washing” from what is truly sustainable, it is essential to keep in mind that sustainability is not only environmental but also social.

As for the more technical part, there are two types of standards that certify that the fabrics are durable. Firstly, the Commission Decision of 5 June 2014 establishes the ecological criteria for the EU Ecolabel award to textile products. Secondly, the rules that certify that garments made with these materials follow sustainable criteria in their manufacturing process. In other words, they regulate aspects such as product traceability, dyes, packaging or transport.

There are many durable and recyclable fabrics of plant and animal origin, which can be natural or artificial. In this article, we have selected ten that come from plants and foods.

1. Hemp

Hemp needs little water for its growth and is relatively resistant to pests, so there is no need to use pesticides or herbicides. It is a resistant fibre that protects against ultraviolet rays. It is also breathable, antibacterial and thermoregulating.

2. Coconut Shell

The coconut shell’s fiber is resistant, dries quickly, repels terrible odors, and protects against ultraviolet rays.

3. Bamboo

Bamboo is a plant that proliferates and does not require large amounts of water or pesticides. The fabric is made from this plant’s pulp; it is biodegradable, antibacterial, and has anti-allergic properties. Also, it protects against ultraviolet rays and is a thermal regulator.

 

4. Bananatex

This fabric is obtained from the stalk of bananas or banana trees and has characteristics similar to bamboo, as it is biodegradable, renewable, anti-allergic, and breathable.

5. Orange Silk

The orange peel becomes a natural fiber once the cellulose is removed. The yarn is very similar to silk and can be mixed with other materials to create twill or poplin.

6. Fish Leather

Its tanning is similar to that performed on mammalian skin, although its healing process is more durable. Its skin is remarkably resistant and of an original aspect, being used for perch, salmon, sea bass.

7. Piñatex

Piñatex is a vegetable leather that is extracted from pineapple leaves that are discarded at harvest time. This material does not require a specific crop field as it is obtained from pineapple waste and helps the communities that cultivate it.

8. Muskin

Nutmeg or mushroom leather is presented as an alternative to animal leather. It was created by an Italian company called Grado Zero Space, and it quickly releases moisture, which is why it is recommended in the manufacture of shoes, straps, or gloves.

9. Matuba Bark

This textile fiber is obtained from the bark of the Matuba tree, native to Uganda. The bark is extracted, boiled, and stretched into cloth. Besides, the tree itself regenerates the bark year after year.

10. Tencel

Tencel is made from the pulp of eucalyptus wood. Its extraction requires little water, and it is biodegradable. In addition, it is breathable, antibacterial, and thermal regulator.

It is sometimes difficult to find clothing governed by these sustainable principles, both environmentally and socially. However, if you look properly, you can find various women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing made with ecologically friendly fabrics that meet sustainable social requirements. It is manufactured in locations that reduce the carbon footprint.

Do you own any piece of cloth made with a sustainable fabric? Where did you find it, and what is your experience with it so far?

19
Feb, 2021

Green and Eco-Friendly Destinations

According to the United Nations Environment Programme, green tourism is an essential element towards a sustainable economy. If you are a traveller in search of green destinations for your next big vacation, then you are in the right place!

#1. Ljubljana – Slovenia

Ljubljana is the capital and largest city of Slovenia and the winner of the European Green Capital Award 2016. Even with 285,000 residents, the city is never crowded or boring. It is a historic but lively city which is known for its picturesque architecture and exquisite nature. It is also a fascinating destination where you will get to see an exciting mix of different cultures and events.

However, this city is more recognised for its exceptional commitment to the environment and green living. It is surrounded by panoramic gardens, green walkways and clean water that flows through fountains found across the whole city. Here, the residents are very conscious about the environment as they keep their surroundings clean and tidy and prefer using bicycles instead of cars. Even the public transport system has implemented a range of green initiatives and sustainable development measures. For example, buses and electric trains run on natural gas and a new electric-powered vehicle called Kavalir was introduced. It is an environmentally-friendly mode of transport which was created for the elderly, mobility-impaired people and visitors.

Furthermore, the city offers certain tourist activities that promote green tourism such as:

  • Hikes through the woods to the top of a hill.
  • River rides with kayaks under picturesque bridges.
  • Observation of the flora and fauna

Let’s not forget the Ljubljana Marshes, which is a fascinating mosaic of meadows, fields and hedges. Known as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ljubljana Marshes is home to some rare animal and plant species.

Despite being one of the smallest European capitals, it is a city with a green soul. So, if you are looking for a genuine green destination, you know where to go!

#2. Blue Lagoon- Iceland

Located in Southwestern Iceland, Blue Lagoon is one of the most famous hot springs in the world. This amazing spa destination offers a unique and picturesque view where white cloud-like steam rises from the milky blue water surrounded by black lava rocks. The sumptuous visual appeal of the blue lagoon forms part of one of the world’s natural wonders.

The water temperature is generally between 98- and 102-degrees Fahrenheit, making it an ideal place for a little warm-up. With a mixture of sea and freshwater, the Blue Lagoon is filled with silica, an essential mineral that strengthens the human body’s tissues. This mineral can also remove dead skin cells and heal skin inflammation. Microorganisms found in the Blue Lagoon contribute to collagen production, which helps in reducing the side effects of exposure to UV rays. As a result, Blue Lagoon is renowned for its healing aspects.

Overall, the hot spring represents a harmony with nature which is sure to win your heart.

#3. Stockholm – Sweden

Stockholm is the capital of Sweden and is the first city to have been awarded with the European Green Capital title. Unlike flashy and sleek cities, Stockholm is a quiet and charming place covered with greenery. It encompasses twelve sprawling gardens with beautiful woodlands and clean canals. Compared to the polluted air present in many urban cities nowadays, in Stockholm, you will be able to breathe fresh and clean air.

Many green and sustainable measures were taken in Stockholm such as:

  • Effective measures to reduce noise pollution was implemented.
  • New standards implemented for cleaner water.
  • All trains and buses run on renewable fuels which have led to a fall in gas emissions and biofuels, generated from sewage are available at petrol stations.
  • A programme called Professional Study Visits Programme was launched in 2010 to raise more awareness about environmental issues.

Stockholm is by far the greenest place in Sweden and will captivate your heart in an instant.

Where will you go first? Will you visit the green city of Slovenia or take a dip in the Blue Lagoon? Please share your comments!

16
Feb, 2021

10 Tips for Sustainable Cooking

We all like good, quality food, but it’s also essential that the food we eat and prepare doesn’t significantly impact the environment. Did you know that about one-third of the environmental impact and greenhouse gas emissions are due to food production and consumption? Fortunately, you can do several things to be sustainable in the kitchen:

1) Use a Lid

One of the minor adjustments you can make is to put a lid on the pan when you want to bring something to boil. The lid prevents too much heat from escaping from the pan. This way, the water in the pan heats up earlier and starts boiling sooner. Besides, you consume two to three times less energy, save on your electricity bill and protect the environment at the same time since fewer greenhouse gases are emitted.

Boulettes De Viande, Boulettes, Boulette, Faire Cuire

2) Waste Less / Don’t Waste Food

Having broccoli tonight? Don’t throw away the florets. Use them the next day to make broccoli rice. An opened bag of potato chips that is no longer tasty? Use it to make tortillas!

3) Turn off the Oven

Often your dish doesn’t need to be in the oven roaring for the entire cooking time. Even when you turn off the oven, it’s still hot enough to keep cooking your quiche, pie, or vegetable dish. You can easily turn off the oven five to ten minutes before the cooking time indicated in the recipe.

4) Pay Attention to the Label

Many labels tell you something about the product. Sustainable products often carry a quality label, which helps us make conscious choices at the supermarket. If you’re not sure, you may visit the Nutrition Center Website of your country to find a summary of these sustainable quality seals.

5) Use Local and Seasonal Products

Choose local and seasonal products as much as possible. You can easily find them in the local market of your area. A bonus: fruits and vegetables from the market are usually much tastier because they are not harvested as ripe as the products we find in the supermarket.

Légumes, Farmers Market, Stand De Légumes, Carottes

6) Create Your Own Herb Garden

Apart from being tastier, growing your own herbs is also better for the environment. It helps lower the use of plastic containers/items and energy for transporting the herbs.

7) Choose the Lowest Possible Setting on Your Gas Stove

When cooking with gas, let the pan heat up slowly and use the lowest possible position. Turning on the fire completely at once wastes a lot of energy.

8) Opt for an Induction Hob

Induction cooking is the most economical way to cook. Gas is also quite economical, but due to current advances, this form of cooking is losing popularity. Electric or ceramic hobs are the big NO: cooking on them consumes twice as much energy.

9) Defrosting Without Microwaves

In the evening, discuss what you will eat the next day, take it immediately out of the freezer, and put it in the fridge. This way you won’t have to use the microwave. This allows food to defrost more healthily and evenly.

Congelés, Saumon, Poissons, La Glace, Alimentaire, Plat

10) Sustainable Dishwashing

Sustainable cooking naturally includes dishwashing. But which is more economical: using the dishwasher or washing them by hand? Opinions remain divided on this issue.

Washing dishes by hand can be more economical under the right conditions. For example, if you use a basin and don’t use electricity to heat the water. Do you wash under the tap, or do you like to rinse the dishes in plenty of hot water? Then a sustainable dishwasher is more economical.

The tips above are just an idea of where you might start to make more sustainable choices. Some options are easier to implement than others. Give yourself time to make changes step by step and see what works best for you. Do you have any other tips regarding sustainable cooking? Share it with us in the comments below!

15
Feb, 2021

Enjoy Green Living on a Disney Trip

There is no place on earth more magical than Disneyland!

Are you a huge Disney fan, as well as an advocate for green living? If so, and if you are interested in a zero-waste Disney trip, do not hesitate to read this article below!

#1. Go Paperless With the Disney App

Have you ever wondered how much paper is wasted printing paper tickets and how many trees are being chopped down to obtain the paper?

Lately, Disney has made some great eco-friendly efforts by eliminating the need to stand in line for paper tickets. Instead, with the Disney App, you simply need to scan a bar code on your phone and you will be granted access to Disneyland.

Moreover, as the app features an interactive and GPS-enabled map, it reduces the need for paper maps. The app can also help you to make food reservations, find attractions and locate your favourite Disney characters.

#2. Green Transportation

Disney takes green living to another level by providing its own eco-friendly transport systems. All the 330 buses that belong to Disney run on a clean and renewable diesel called R50 which is made from cooking oil, non-consumable food waste and 50 per cent diesel fuel.

You can also rent a bike during your stay in Disneyland to enjoy some exercise and the beautiful scenery. And at the same time, you will be contributing to the protection of the environment.

#3. Pack Reusable Items:

  • Reusable Water Bottle

It is essential to stay hydrated during your visit to Disney World and for that, you need to pack your own bottle of water. The use of reusable water bottles is recommended to reduce carbon footprint and decrease the plastic burden on landfills and oceans. Of course, you will be able to fill your bottle as you will find many water fountains and water bottle filling stations in the park. However, it is vital to remember that you won’t be provided with any glasses.

  • Reusable Utensils

In the Disney Parks, you will undoubtedly feel the need to sit on mats and eat some lip-smacking food. So, what Disneyland suggests is instead of using plastic utensils, choose reusable ones. For example, bamboo utensils are recommended since the bamboo is a highly renewable material which benefits the environment.

  • Reusable Straws

As mentioned above, Disneyland is adopting an eco-friendly approach and is thus removing all plastic straws from its parks. However, paper straws will still be readily available.

If you’re planning for a zero-waste trip to Disney, it is better to use reusable straws. Reusable straws are usually made from either bamboo, silicone or glass. However, if you are not comfortable with these, stainless steel straws are non-toxic, unbreakable and free of lead. And, don’t worry, these straws won’t leave a metallic aftertaste in your mouth. However, remember if you are using them for hot drinks, they can burn your mouth as stainless steel transfers heat.

  • Don’t Forget Cloth Napkins

If you are going for a green trip to Disneyland, you must pack some cloth napkins. Why? Simply because it will reduce your use of paper towels.

  • Reusable Shopping Bags

We cannot travel to Disney World and come back without any souvenirs. It is a must! However, make sure that you are bringing some reusable shopping bags along with you. Alternatively, there are some Disney stores which provide these eco-friendly shopping bags.

#4. Recycling

Disney has established an excellent recycling system. Below are some of the different elements of that system:

  • Used soaps, lotions, shampoos and conditioners are collected by Clean the World, an organisation that recycles used hotel amenities, and are reprocessed and distributed to poor and needy people. This activity aims at reducing hygiene-related illnesses. For example, in 2012, 393,000 soap bars were produced from more than 128,000 pounds of hygiene products.
  • Have you ever heard of the Disney Harvest program? This is a scheme created by Disney in 1991 with the aim of ending the hunger problems in Central Florida. As a result, Disney collects unserved prepared food from resort kitchens and distribute it to hungry people. It is noted that through this program, at least 1,000 local children are fed each day.

Adopting eco-friendly measures while visiting Mickey and Minnie is a great way to have a green holiday. Please share your comments and tell us what you think about the green efforts of Disney!

11
Feb, 2021

Creative Ideas To Reuse, Reduce And Recycle Old Clothes (Part 2)

Every season, you want to follow new fashions, and it is good that you shop because you stimulate the economy and business. But you also have to encourage ourselves to recycle clothes since it is another good alternative to preserve the environment. Six million tonnes of clothing are thrown away in Europe every year, of which only 25 percent are recycled, 2700 liters of water are needed to make a 250-gram cotton T-shirt. It’s therefore important to reuse clothes and buy ecological fabrics. But surely the question you ask yourself is how to recycle old clothes. Let’s check out some savvy ways to reuse old clothes!

#1. Spice Up Your T-Shirts

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You are probably just bored with some of your clothes and want to give them a more modern touch. Do you want to know how? It is very simple! You just need scissors and a little imagination. Fold a basic shirt in half but over the longest part of the garment. Then mark the drawing you are going to make and prepare to cut out. The truth is that you can innovate with hundreds of spectacular designs like this one that we show you.

#2. Make Chews For Your Dog By Reusing Old Towels, Socks, And Other Clothes

Even older garments can offer a second utility before being thrown away. Reusing old towels, socks, or jeans to make teethers for your pets is clear proof of this. In this case, you will always try to use cotton garments as raw material. 

#3. Make Baby Bibs From Used Clothing

Bibs are handy to prevent your babies from staining their clothes. They are garments that are designed to get dirty and wash continuously. If you have fabrics prepared for humidity, such as those used to make technical clothing, raincoats, or swimsuits, you can easily recycle them into long-suffering bibs. 

#4. Recycle The Sleeves Of A Sweater To Make Fingerless Gloves

One of the easiest clothing recycling projects is to cut the sleeves from an old sweater or shirt to make fingerless mittens or gloves. An ideal complement to be able to use your mobile phone in winter without your hands freezing. 

#5. Make A Case For Your Mobile Phone Or Sunglasses

Another good idea to recycle a shirt, sweater, or coat sleeves is to use them to make a protective cover for your mobile phone or shades. This way, you will avoid being rub against other objects when you carry them in the bag. 

#6. Use The Fabric Of Clothing That You Do Not Use To Upholster Chairs And Other Furniture

Using the fabric of your old clothes to upholster your furniture, you will be able to extend the life of the fabrics and add a touch of color to your home. 

#7. Using Denim To Make A Tool Holder Apron

If you like to do DIY projects beyond sewing, a tool holder apron may be handy. The back of some old jeans can provide us with a resistant fabric that you can use as raw material. 

#8. Make Some Slippers From An Old Sweater

If you have a thick wool sweater, you can make some warm slippers to walk around the house. Searching the net a bit, you will find many websites that offer us free patterns that you can use as a model to make them. 

#9. Make A Wall Organizer Out Of Pockets From Old Jeans

Our old jeans’ back pockets can help us keep order in your home if you use them to make organizers, which you can hang on the wall or inside your closets. 

#10. Make Cleaning Cloths From Cotton Garments

Perhaps the easiest way to reuse your old clothes is to recycle them as cleaning cloths. You must always use fabrics made with natural fibers such as cotton since synthetic fibers can scratch glass and other materials.

What do you think of this topic? Have you already recycled any garment? Check out the first part of this article to learn more savvy ways to reuse your old clothes!