Comparing the environmental impact of sugar with various alternative sweeteners is easier said than done. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, it’s nearly impossible to define the most sustainable sweetener…

Photo by nrd on UnsplashTerms like GMO, non-GMO, and organic get bandied about a lot these days, but what do they mean? Do these labels provide assurance or indicate we should be avoiding the food in question? Let’s define these labels and learn…

It’s never too early to start talking to kids about sustainability and respecting the planet. Children instinctively gravitate towards nature and enjoy learning about environmental stewardship, especially when it’s presented through engaging,…

We may have wrapped up the holiday season, but shopping for goods never ends. If you support the ethical treatment of animals and engage in cruelty-free shopping, is it fair to assume this is a sustainable act that also helps the environment?…

We are at peak season for holiday gift-giving. While savvy environmentalists avoid fast fashion, clothing is always a popular choice, and nothing says luxury like cashmere. Unlike synthetic fibers, cashmere is a natural, biodegradable fiber, but it…

Most consumers purchase a combination of fresh, frozen, and canned food to prepare meals, and with the holiday season fast approaching, the purchase of convenience foods is higher than usual. Canned food is affordable and makes cooking quick and…

Photo by Nik on UnsplashFluoride is known for remineralizing tooth enamel; reducing tooth and gum sensitivity; and preventing cavities, gum disease, and the premature loss of teeth. It is a naturally occurring mineral found in water, soil, rocks,…

We’ve been spotlighting microplastics and the ecological consequence of microfiber shedding due to laundering synthetic clothing at home. Is professional dry cleaning any safer for our planet and our health? Are environmental dry cleaners a real…

Silk is associated with luxury and known for its luster, strength and softness. This natural protein fiber originated over 8,500 years ago in ancient China and was traded along the famed Silk Road.
Conventional silk production, known as sericulture,…

Soil vs. Dirt, Biodegradation, and LandfillsLast month, Sustainable Contra Costa hosted a showing of the highly acclaimed documentary Common Ground, which depicts the "Soil Your Undies Challenge." This experiment playfully challenges participants to…

Have you wondered about those multi-colored gel packs for dishwashers? They are pre-measured and convenient to use; just pop one pod into the dishwashing compartment where you normally pour liquid or powder and you’re good to go. This may sound easy…