by Lauren Dixon Hyperconsumerism is the excessive and relentless consumption of products and services beyond our basic needs. This phenomenon is driven by various factors, such as social pressure, a desire for status and identity, the urge to keep up with the latest trends, and the belief that material possessions bring happiness and fulfillment. The […]
Hyperconsumerism, fast fashion and the climate crisis Read More »
by Richard Rollins Over the years, it’s become clear that local actions often provide the incentives that government officials need to take critical actions designed to help us step back from the brink of climate disaster. “Public will, especially as expressed through citizen activism, is an important influence on the policymaker process,” noted Yale University’s School
Community Climate Action Awards lay the foundation for transformative change Read More »
by Roberto A. Chia-Balmaceda It comes as no surprise to see that companies such as Dominion Energy, with an ingrained stake in the future of the fossil fuel industry, would want to market energy sources such as natural gas (aka methane, its primary component) in a way that makes it as palatable as possible, even
The myth of the methane transition fuel Read More »
by Abby Simpson Increased water temperatures, decreased ice cover, droughts, wildfires, floods, and stronger weather patterns caused by climate change are having a detrimental effect on the United States’ freshwater lakes and reservoirs. We must take urgent action now before the negative effects become irreversible. The U.S. is home to about 250 massive freshwater lakes
How climate change is affecting freshwater lakes Read More »
by Haley Morrison It’s time for the United States, the largest historical contributor to global climate change, to take a leading role in climate action and accountability, especially by reducing its use of natural resources. According to the World Bank the U.S. made up only about 4% of the global population as of 2020.1 When we
by Ellie Crone Flash floods have become just one example of the countless catastrophes exacerbated by climate change. These floods, caused by record-breaking rains, have led to widespread destruction and loss of lives. Such was the case with the floods that swept across Kentucky1 in July 2022, killing at least 38 people, and those that hit
Fossil fuel divestment – The role of universities in combating climate change Read More »
by Abby Simpson It is apparent that to prevent the worst effects from climate change, the Earth’s temperature must stay below 1.5 degrees Celsius.1 But even at current rates we are witnessing increased ocean temperatures, rising ocean levels, species extinction, more record hot days, and harsher weather patterns. Swift, urgent action is necessary to avoid
How colleges can reduce their greenhouse gas emissions Read More »
by Jill Poskanzer As an avid zoogoer and lifelong cat lover, the highlight of a visit to any new Association of Zoos & Aquariums-accredited institution, for me, is the big cats. I love to watch jewel-bright tigers stalking along the edge of their enclosure, mouths open, hungry for their eager fans just beyond their reach;
The missing lynx – One species’ survival story Read More »
by Jill Poskanzer When my friend’s parents came to visit her in Los Angeles a few months ago, I was invited to tag along with them to the zoo, an opportunity I never turn down, no matter where I am in the world. “I told them you’re very good at spotting animals,” my friend told
We can do something about climate-caused extinctions. Our animal friends can’t. Read More »
by Christine Carlton Ford, Porsche, Nissan, Chevrolet, Jaguar, Hyundai, Tesla, Kia, Mercedes, Audi, Mazda, Volvo, Mini Cooper, Polestar, Rivian, GMC, Volkswagen. The common factor in that list of vehicle brands? Each currently offers at least one all-electric model, with three – Tesla, Rivian, and Polestar – only producing electric vehicles (EVs). That’s not an exhaustive
Electric vehicles are great but they can – and will – be even better Read More »
