The United Nations Development Program estimates that urban gardens, like the ones springing up all over New York City and Seattle, provide 15 percent of the world’s food supply. They also create sorely needed jobs in neglected neighborhoods and introduce concrete-raised children to the wonders of nature.
What are the pros and cons of juice pasteurization? —Sabrina Coolidge, Portland, OR Some consumers are skeptical of pasteurization because they are concerned that the heat treatment will compromise the nutritional value of juice. According to Odwalla, a natural juice company, there is an approximate 30 percent nutrient loss during pasteurization. But the U.S. Food […]
Is there a connection between practicing yoga and protecting the environment?—Rachelle Gould, Cambridge, MA ©Chris Murphy The modern practice of yoga is rooted in the complex belief systems of ancient India. According to Yoga Journal, hatha yoga emerged in the ninth century and is the foundation of the physical postures called asanas. The term "yoga" […]
How serious is the problem of soil erosion, and what can be done about it? —Brandi, Fort Worth, TX © Chris Murphy The "dirt" beneath our feet plays a variety of supporting roles. It gives plants a foothold so they can root, filters rainwater and provides a record of environmental change. But excessive cultivation, erosion […]
I’ve heard that leaving a light on for a given length of time may use less energy than turning it off and on again. Is this a myth? —Allison Nelson, Glen, NH Leaving a light on to save energy is not a bright idea. This myth arose in the 1940s when energy was cheap and […]
Breathing Silica, Washing Vegetables and Saving Habitat What are the health effects of clumping cat litter on humans? Are there any negative side effects from breathing the actual litter? —Andy and Taeja Klukas, Maple Grove, MN Clay-based cat litters contain crystalline silica, the main component in sand, rock and mineral ores. A possible health threat […]
I understand that there is a ban in place on chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). Where can I purchase a CFC-free refrigerator?
Chris Murphy Do condoms represent a significant portion of beach litter? Are there environmentally friendly condoms? —Wendy M., Olympia, WA Condoms are often found discarded on beaches along with straws, bottles and other trash. About 900 condoms were found on Florida’s beaches during a three-hour litter collection campaign in 1996. That’s five condoms per minute. […]
I love to play golf, but is it bad for the environment? —Jared Pyatt, Springfield, MO The relationship between golf courses and the environment is not a simple one. Many golf courses are public parks that help preserve native habitats and get millions of people outside. But golf courses can also be elitist playgrounds, put […]
Where can I go to find out how much energy my home uses annually?According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Annual Energy Outlook 2000 Report, American residential energy use will increase by more than 22 percent overall between 1998 and 2020.
