Shows
Greening Up My ActTips for the Best Thanksgiving Meal Ever*! (*No Promises)**Ruby was Tiffany’s wonderful dog who went over the rainbow bridge this season. This Thanksgiving episode goes out to her. **Want to have a less expensive and less wasteful Thanksgiving meal this year? Ok, we can’t promise it’ll be the best Thanksgiving ever, but we can give you tips to reduce how much food you waste and the overall cost of the meal. Plus, get some of our favorite recipes for day-of and leftovers in the last episode of this season. Bonus: ASMR pretzel eating!Sources:University of Minnesota: https...
2025-11-2541 minGreening Up My ActHow Meal Planning Will Save Your Sanity“What do you want for dinner?” is the worst question ever. Meal planning to the rescue! We know, we know — it's one of those things everyone tells you you should do. But find out why this little tweak is actually worth it, and how it will save you money, time, and sanity. Get tips on how to do it right, plus a free downloadable planner that Tiffany actively uses and swears by.SourcesRutgers: https://dep.nj.gov/wp-content/uploads/sustainability/fs1332_-reducing-food-waste-at-home_-easy-every-day-tips-rutgers-njaes.pdf EPA: https://www.epa.gov/land-research/estimating-cost-food-waste-american-consumers Our downloadable meal pla...
2025-11-1157 minGreening Up My ActAre Backyard Chickens a Better Egg Option?Eggs have been expensive for a long time! So are backyard chickens the way to reduce your egg costs at the grocery store? And are backyard chicken eggs any good? Find out if raising chickens is worth it, from chicken coop plans to how they get along with kids. Plus, get the scoop on how to decipher between pasture-raised, cage-free, or certified humane eggs when you're at the grocery store.SourcesRedditbackyardchickens.comDatabase of ordinances: https://www.backyardchickens.com/articles/categories/chicken-laws-ordinances.13/ Certified Humane: https://certifiedhumane.org/cage-free-vs-free-range/ Free-Range Chicken Gardens: How to Create a...
2025-09-3059 minGreening Up My ActIs Organic Food a Scam?Is organic food a scam? Americans (especially parents!) are pressured to buy organic groceries for supposed health benefits, fear of pesticides, or because they think organic farming practices are better for the environment. But are these claims true? Dig deeper into organic fruits and vegetables, including whether there's any proof to the supposed benefits of organic food. SourcesMayo Clinic - Organic foods: Are they safer? More nutritious? - https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/organic-food/art-20043880Organic 101: What the USDA Organic Label Means - https://www.usda.gov/about-usda/news/blog/organic-101...
2025-09-2353 minGreening Up My ActWhy Are People Avoiding Red 40?Say "artificial food dyes" and someone will inevitably start screaming about Red 40 (or FD&C Red 40 if they're really obsessive). Are these dyes really poisoning our children? Is natural food coloring better, or might there be unintended environmental consequences? Join us as we look at everything from MAHA to McGill University to get to the bottom of artificial colors. SourcesThe Atlantic: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2025/08/white-food-dye-titanium-dioxide-maha/683806/?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-usInternational Dairy Foods Assoc: https://www.idfa.org/idfa-ice-cream-commitmentMake America Healthy Again report: https://www.whitehouse.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/MAHA-Report-The-White-House.pdf FDA: https://w...
2025-09-161h 03Greening Up My ActIs Growing Your Own Vegetables Worth It?The average American is spending 25% more on groceries than they were before the COVID-19 pandemic, so folks are looking for ways to save money. Growing your own vegetables is rewarding, but is it worth the cost? What's the cheapest vegetable to grow? Get tips on deciding what to plant and whether growing your own veg will save you some dough in your favorite sustainability podcast. NOTE: Some of the links below contain affiliate links, which we make a little cash from. Sources:LA Food Bank - https://www.lafoodbank.org/stories/u...
2025-09-0950 minGreening Up My ActHow to Build Community When You Feel Completely AloneFeeling isolated? You're not alone (ironically). Community is probably the solution, but how do you find it or build it today? Let's talk about what community means, how to build it, and why it's not your fault if you feel like it's harder today than it should be. Plus: can community be dangerous? Find out this week on your favorite sustainability and joy podcast!SourcesPsychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/what-the-wild-things-are/202307/the-importance-of-communityIkeda Center: https://www.ikedacenter.org/resources/what-community-and-why-it-important Motherly: https://www.mother.ly/relationships/community-friendship/making-mom-friends-viral-reel/ The Guardian: https://www.theguardian.com/we...
2025-07-291h 08Greening Up My ActHow to Be A Tourist in Your Own CityTraveling is great, but in this economy?! As anti-tourist sentiments heat up abroad, finding ways to enjoy your local area as a tourist destination is a better idea than ever. Get ideas and tips from Tiff and Kat on how to play tourist in your town to increase your local pride and hey, be a more conscientious tourist wherever you go!Sources:NY Times - https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/16/arts/design/louvre-staff-strikes-tourism.htmlABC News - https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Travel/us-travelers-amid-anti-tourism-protests-europe/story?id=122771547Global Rescue - https://www.globalrescue.com/common/blog/detail/us-policy-shifts-impact-american-travelers-negative-perception/The...
2025-07-221h 09Greening Up My ActHow to Actually Shop Local (for Your Daily Dose of Joy)Trying to buy less shite from Amazon but feel a little... intimidated by mom-and-pops (like, do you have to talk to people)? Tiff and Kat are here to teach you the basics, like what does shop local mean. Buying local is one way to get the stuff you need — and build community along the way. Learn how they managed to cut through the awkwardness, so you can get started in your hometown. SourcesLatinoFreeze: https://www.latinofreeze.com/Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/dougmelville/2025/03/17/do-boycotts-work-as-targets-traffic-declines-tesla--others-see-shifts-with-consumers/ Newsweek: https://www.newsweek.com/target-facing-permanent-boycott-june-2079736Forbes again: https://www.forb...
2025-07-151h 07Greening Up My ActThe Joy of Coffee: Will It Be Around in 50 Years?People around the world are obsessed with coffee. But with climate change threatening coffee-growing ecosystems, will mushroom coffee soon be our only option? Pour yourself a cup of Joe and settle in for a cozy chat about why we love coffee, why it's (probably) good for us, and how to choose your brew a little more sustainably. SourcesDrive Research - Coffee Statistics - https://www.driveresearch.com/market-research-company-blog/coffee-survey/Daily Coffee News - https://dailycoffeenews.com/2023/10/23/nca-economic-impact-report-us-consumers-spend-301-million-per-day-on-coffeeJohn Hopkins Medicine - https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/9-reasons-why-the-right-amount-of-coffee-is-good-for-youClive Coffee – How Climate Change is Affecting Coffee - ht...
2025-07-011h 06Greening Up My ActThrift Shopping Is Pure Joy — But the Hauls Gotta GoThrifting is on trend again, which is mostly awesome in terms of sustainability. But before you Google "thrift stores near me" to go pop some tags, listen as hosts Tiff and Kat chat about how to thrift responsibly — mostly by avoiding those dang ole thrift hauls. Whether you're headed to a Salvation Army thrift store or a more local second hand store, you'll also want their top tips on how to nab the best finds.SourcesMartha Stewart: https://www.marthastewart.com/shopping-tips-thrift-stores-8765480The Cut: https://www.thecut.com/2023/04/the-ultimate-guide-to-thrifting-ethically.html Seattle Times: https://www...
2025-06-2458 minGreening Up My ActThe Joy of Long (or Not So Long) WalksTake a stroll with us — or a fart walk, if you will — to learn more about why walking is so great. Can walking actually improve your digestion (the fart walk question)? Is running better for you than walking? And is it better to walk in nature or on city streets? We highly recommend listening to this on an actual walk, so grab your headphones and get moving (just be safe). Sources:Harvard - Five Surprising Benefits of Walking - https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/5-surprising-benefits-of-walkingHealthline - Fart Walking May Promote Digestive Health, Lower Diabe...
2025-06-1744 minGreening Up My ActThe Joy of Demolishing Invasive PlantsWhat makes a plant invasive? Join as hosts Tiff and Kat take you through the strange, un-wonderful world of invasive plants. Learn how to tell if a plant is invasive — and how to get rid of them, or at the very least stop them from spreading in your neighborhood (and farther). Start demolishing with your favorite sustainability podcast!As Amazon affiliates, the hosts may get a small commission from some of these links.Maryland DNR: https://dnr.maryland.gov/wildlife/documents/invasive_plants_cards.pdfNature Conservancy: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/in...
2025-06-1053 minGreening Up My ActThe Joy of Books & How to Get Back to ReadingWhen was the last time you burrowed into a really great book? Kat and Tiff burrow deep into why reading books (not screens) is good for you and how to get back into it without breaking the bank or destroying the environment. Sources:ELA Brave and True - High School Students Can’t Focus and Here’s Why - https://elabraveandtrue.com/2022/12/08/why-students-cant-focus-to-read-booksEducation from Seattle PI - The Advantages of Sustained Silent Reading - https://education.seattlepi.com/advantages-sustained-silent-reading-1638.htmlNIH - How Does Fiction Readng Influence Empathy? - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3559433/JCFS...
2025-06-0357 minGreening Up My ActThe Joy of Sloppy HabitsAtomic Habits not quite click with you? Same. In this episode, Tiff and Kat analyze the James Clear book, Atomic Habits -- and figure out a few reasons why the advice seems so unrelatable. In a brief step away from sustainability topics, the two hosts explore embracing your sloppiness and taking the pressure off yourself, away from this need to constantly achieve, strive, and produce. As Amazon affiliates, the podcast hosts may get a small commission on some of the links below.SourcesJames Clear, Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to B...
2025-05-2754 minGreening Up My ActThe Joy of Spring CleaningIt's spring cleaning time! Explore eco-friendly ways to clean out your closets and really get into those crevices based on Tiff & Kat's favorite methods.Sources:www.ridwell.comPatreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram: @greeningupmyactFacebook: Greening Up My ActEmail us with questions: greeningupmyact@gmail.comYouTube: Greening Up My Act
2025-05-2053 minGreening Up My ActWhat Are the Rules for Bird Feeders?In this episode, Tiffany and Kat discuss the joy of birdwatching. They explore the benefits and concerns of bird feeding, like potential health risks for birds and the sustainability of feeding practices. Some questions include: Should we feed birds? Can we feed them all year? How much of my paycheck do I have to spend on bird food? and more in this upbeat sustainability podcast.Sourceshttps://www.audubon.org/news/to-feed-or-not-feed\https://www.audubon.org/magazine/11-tips-feeding-backyard-birds PDF: Six feeders every bird should have: https://media.audubon.org/audubon_guide_to_bird_feeders.p...
2025-05-1359 minGreening Up My ActWe Don't Deserve DogsWelcome back to Season 7 -- JOY! This season, we're focusing on what brings us joy with a little sprinkle of GUMA research plus tips on how to green it all up.This week: DOGS. Get a little history about why they are the way they are, science on why we love them, and ideas on being a better guardian for your good boy or girl today. Sources:Earth.org - The Environmental Impact of Pets: Working Towards Sustainable Pet Ownership - https://earth.org/environmental-impact-of-pets/CNN – Pets could boost wellbeing as...
2025-05-061h 00Greening Up My ActIs Climate Education Our Best Hope?Did you know educating kids about climate change can have a serious impact on carbon output? This week, Tiffany and Kat explore the role of climate education in U.S. schools, discussing the barriers to effective teaching and how certain (ahem) industries (ahem) influence educational materials. Dig deeper into how to empower teachers and students, the impact of youth activism, and the need for parental involvement in climate education. We also give a sneak preview of next season -- Joy! (Coming May 6!)SourcesNature Conservancy: https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/who-we-are/h...
2025-04-0850 min
Greening Up My ActIntroducing Cleaning Up My Yard by Greening Up My ActTimes are tough and the economy is uncertain, which is why we've decided to diversify by offering you, our listeners, a new all-natural, green, eco-friendly, organic, sustainable product:Cleaning Up My Yard by Greening Up My Act: Cat Poo Flavored Dog Treats!For only $15.99/month you can get these locally-sourced treats delivered to your door. Check out our Patreon to subscribe!www.patreon.com/GreeningUpMyActPatreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram: @greeningupmyact
2025-04-0105 minGreening Up My ActWhat Green Policies Have We Lost?This week we look at the green policies and protections President Trump has already or is working to dismantle in his second term. Stay informed and maybe feel a little better about buying an electric vehicle or getting solar panels. SourcesWashington Post - Trump Has Rolled Back 125 Environmental Safeguards - https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/climate-environment/trump-climate-environment-protections/Climate Action News - What Trump’s second term means for climate action in the US and beyond - https://www.climatechangenews.com/2025/01/15/what-trump-second-term-means-for-climate-action-in-the-us-and-beyond/Texas Tribune - Trump’s promise to unravel Biden's climate policies could take...
2025-03-2547 minGreening Up My ActClimate Change Needs New Marketing — How to Fix ItNeed tips for talking climate change with your Trump-supporting uncle? Tiff and Kat chat about climate polarization — and how we need to rebrand these initiatives to reach across the political aisle. The two hosts use their marketing experience in this sustainability podcast to figure out exactly how we can get more people to fight for change.Sourceshttps://www.theclimatechangereview.com/post/the-polarization-of-climate-change https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/farmers-federal-funding-freeze-trump-administration-scramble-respond-rcna191544https://civileats.com/2025/02/11/trumps-funding-freeze-creates-chaos-and-financial-distress-for-farmers/ https://www.bupipedream.com/news/state-agriculture-program-experiences-funding-cuts/162769/ https://www.climate.gov/news-features/climate-qa/does-it-matter-how-much-united-states-reduces-its-carbon-dioxide-emissions https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/08/09/what-the-data-says-about-americans-views-of-climate-change/ https://www.pewr...
2025-03-181h 01Greening Up My ActEasy Ways to Take Action Against Polluting CompaniesWe've talked at length about how large corporations influence federal policy and how you can try to do the same. Let's take a look at how YOU can influence large corporations, especially the ones doing the most damage to the environment.Sources:UMass Amherst Political Economy Research Institute - Greenhouse 100 Polluters, 2024 - https://peri.umass.edu/greenhouse-100-polluters-index-currentMcCune Law Group - Corporate Accountability for Environmental Damages - https://mccunewright.com/blog/2023/11/holding-corporations-responsible-for-environmental-damagesVistra Energy - https://hub.vistracorp.com/our-companies/Columbia Climate School - Climate Lawsuits are on the Rise - https://news.climate.columbia.edu/2023/08/09/climate-lawsuits-are-on-the-rise-this-is-what-theyre-based-on...
2025-03-111h 04Greening Up My ActCitizens United 101: What It Means for the Climate (Part 2)"Climate denial and Citizens United are two sides of the same coin." That was U.S. Senator Whitehouse basically summing up this episode. Discover why the fight against climate change practically stopped in its tracks following the 2010 Citizens United ruling -- and why it feels so infuriating -- and what we can do about it today.Sourceshttps://www.whitehouse.senate.gov/news/speeches/how-citizens-united-altered-the-climate-debate/https://www.commoncause.org/articles/inextricably-linked-how-citizens-united-halted-climate-action/ https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/15-years-later-citizens-united-allows-corporate-greed-to-fuel-climate-disasters/ https://e360.yale.edu/features/how-big-money-in-politics-blocked-u-s-action-on-climate-changePlutocrats United: Campaign Money, the Supreme Court, and the Distortion of American Elections: https://am...
2025-03-041h 02Greening Up My ActCitizens United 101: What It Means for the Climate (Part 1)In this two-part episode, hosts Tiff and Kat break down Citizens United, the Supreme Court case that unleashed unlimited corporate spending in politics — and how that money fuels climate inaction. With fossil fuel giants pouring millions into elections and lobbying, we explore how this decision came about in the first place. Join us as we uncover the link between big money, political gridlock, and the fight for a sustainable future.As Amazon Associates, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you click and bu...
2025-02-2551 minGreening Up My ActHow to Lobby Your State GovernmentFederal government got you down? Explore how to lobby your state government and influence local climate policy to help get your feelings in a better place. SourcesNetwork for Business Sustainability: How Business Leaders Can Lobby for Climate Action - https://nbs.net/how-business-leaders-can-lobby-for-climate-action/Inside Climate News: What to Expect from State Governments on Renewable Energy Policy in 2025 - https://insideclimatenews.org/news/09012025/inside-clean-energy-state-government-policy-2025/Greenpeace: Lobbying 101 - https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/lobbying-101/American College of Radiology: 10 Tips for Lobbying State Legislatures - https://www.acr.org/Advocacy-and-Economics/State-Issues/Advocacy-Resources/Lobbying-State-LegislaturesPBS: Here’s What to Know Abo...
2025-02-1850 minGreening Up My ActStart Local: 5 Ways to Get Involved in Your CommunityWe get it: It's easy to want to hide in your hidey hole right now. But sadly, we don't got time for that. Instead, it's time to cobble together as many safe, sustainable local communities as we can manage. If you're pissed or scared (or both) and want to make an impact on local politics, join Tiff and Kat to get your hopes back up in these crazy f*cking times.Sourceshttps://www.americanprogress.org/article/fighting-climate-change-from-capitol-hill-to-city-hall/ https://www.sheshouldrun.org/resources/3-ways-to-get-involved-in-local-government/https://www.lcv.org/programs/climate-action-program/ Patreon: patreon.com/gr...
2025-02-111h 01Greening Up My ActCan Your Vote Impact Green Policies?Does voting really matter to U.S. policy? A lot of people in our country feel like voting is pointless. Join Tiff & Kat in exploring if that's really true.Sources:U.S. News & World Report: How Many People Didn’t Vote in the 2024 Election? https://www.usnews.com/news/national-news/articles/2024-11-15/how-many-people-didnt-vote-in-the-2024-electionThe Guardian: Why Eligible Voters Did Not Vote https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2024/dec/13/why-eligible-voters-did-not-votePrinceton Quarterly Journal of Economics: Do Voters Affect or Elect Policies? https://www.princeton.edu/~davidlee/wp/voterspolicies.pdfNonprofitVOTE: The Benefits of Voting https://www.nonprofitvote.or...
2025-02-0456 minGreening Up My ActHandling Eco-Anxiety: Staying Hopeful While Fighting for ChangeStruggling with eco-anxiety, like any person with eyes? Hosts Tiff and Kat explore how to stay hopeful and motivated while tackling unprecedented environmental challenges, offering practical tips to turn worry into action. Join them as they share stories, insights, and strategies to cultivate resilience and make a positive impact in a world that needs it in your favorite sustainability podcast.As Amazon Associates, some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you click and buy.SourcesNOAA climate.gov: https://www...
2025-01-2858 minGreening Up My ActPut Your Money Where Your Mouth IsIf you want your money to impact ecological matters, where should you put it? Billionaires aren't the only people who can make the world change with their money.Get tips on how to find the right charitable organization to donate your money to where they'll actually do something with it, and get a few suggestions to start you off. SourcesNational Philanthropic Trust - Charitable Giving Statistics - https://www.nptrust.org/philanthropic-resources/charitable-giving-statistics/Earth Easy - 10 high-impact environmental charities with integrity - https://learn.eartheasy.com/articles/where-to-donate-10-high-impact-environmental-charities-with-integrity/Indigenous Environmental Ne...
2025-01-2141 minGreening Up My ActWhat the Heck is a Sustainable Community, Anyway?Welcome to season 6 -- we're talking activism for non-activists! To kick things off, Tiff looks into sustainable communities. What are they? Are they real? Do Bigfoot and the Jersey Devil hang out there, or human folk? Turns out they are real, but complicated. Even if these communities can be a little... out there... they're ripe with inspiration to make your own neighborhood more sustainable one step at a time.SourcesInstitute for Sustainable Communities: https://sustain.org/about/what-is-a-sustainable-community/Dancing Rabbit Ecovillage: https://www.dancingrabbit.org/Patreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram
2025-01-1440 minGreening Up My ActAnti-Black Friday 2024: How to Survive the Holidays When Your Brain is a Mashed PotatoReady or not, the holidays are upon us. Get tips on how to make it through this season without going into debt (emotional or economic) in our annual anti-Black Friday gift guide. We wish you a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season full of light, warmth, and love. Season 6 starts early January 2025!Sources:CNBC - What Not to Buy This Year- https://www.cnbc.com/2024/11/26/black-friday-and-cyber-monday-are-here-what-not-to-buy-this-year.htmlABC - Black Friday's History - https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/black-fridays-history-tells-us-holiday-shopping-2024-116228668 Charles Schwab - Three Ways to Avoid Doom S...
2024-11-2855 minGreening Up My ActPolitical Action is Coming (Season 6 Preview)Your favorite green living podcast is back with a preview of our sixth (!!!) season. It's been a rough couple of months for a number of reasons (check out our Patreon for a full run-through) but we are coming back in January 2025 with Season 6: Political Action! We'll be talking about: how voting affects green policies how to lobby your U.S. government from the city to the state to the fedswhat green plans the U.S. government has in place (or what they'll be tearing down)how to take action against cor...
2024-11-1935 minGreening Up My ActWhy You Should Be Asking About Eco-Friendly HotelsDid you know there are over 400,000 eco-friendly hotels around the world? Join Tiff and Kat in exploring how to identify these hidden gems in the wild and what they're doing to combat overtourism.We're going through a lot right now so we need to take a break until early 2025!Sources:NatGeo - https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/what-sustainable-tourism-meansProven Partners - What Makes a Hotel Eco-Friendly? https://www.proven.partners/blog/eco-friendly-hotelThe Conversation - Why Australia Might Be at Risk of Overtourism - https://theconversation.com/why-australia-might-be-at-risk-of-overtourism-99213NatGeo - https://www.nationalgeographic...
2024-09-031h 03Greening Up My ActIs Paravel Actually Sustainable? Unzipping Eco-Friendly LuggageRockefeller-founded brand Paravel claims to make the "world's first carbon-neutral suitcases." The company's mission is also to make the world a better place. Are either of these things realistic? Join marketing writers Tiff and Kat as they explore the highfalutin world of luxury sustainable travel in your favorite sustainability podcast.SourcesParavel: https://tourparavel.com/collections/luggage Nat Geo: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/what-sustainable-tourism-means CNN: https://www.cnn.com/cnn-underscored/reviews/paravel-travel-luggage Harvard Business Review: https://hbr.org/2021/09/the-net-positive-manifesto Travel & Leisure: https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/how-to-recycle-an-old-suitcase Terracycle: https://shop.terra...
2024-08-2747 minGreening Up My ActWhat's Up with Air Travel?Airplanes and passenger jets get a lot of flak for emissions and pollution. But just how much does your flight overseas affect climate change? And what are scientists and the government doing to try and fix it? Find out in this week's episode of your favorite green living podcast.Sources:Kat’s rocket scientist sisterOur World in Data - Sector by sector: where do global greenhouse emissions come from? - https://ourworldindata.org/ghg-emissions-by-sectorThe Commons - How to Fly Sustainably: 6 Tips to Cut Your Carbon “Flight” Print - https://www.thecommons.earth/blog/simple-steps-to-make-flying-more-sustainableAscent, the av...
2024-08-2045 minGreening Up My Act15-Minute Cities: A Conspiracy Theory Paradise?15-minute cities are a bit of a head-scratcher. On the one hand, hosts Tiff and Kat talk through beautiful examples of real cities becoming more walkable and bikeable. But on the other hand, there are some truly wild 15-minute city conspiracy theories around the topic. Let's get into it!SourcesDeloitte: https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/Industries/government-public/perspectives/urban-future-with-a-purpose/15-minute-city.htmlFast Company: https://www.fastcompany.com/91119919/how-paris-became-a-15-minute-city Bureau of Investigative Journalism: https://www.thebureauinvestigates.com/stories/2023-10-04/what-is-the-15-minute-cities-conspiracy-theory/ Wired: https://www.wired.com/story/15-minute-city-conspiracy-uk-politics/ Patreon: pat...
2024-08-1351 minGreening Up My ActAre E-Scooters the Greenest Way to Get Around?Find out if an electric scooter (e-scooter) is the green transportation choice of your dreams or if it's all just a green hooey fantasy in the lastest episode of your favorite sustainability podcast.Sources:Reddit post - https://www.reddit.com/r/ElectricScooters/comments/cnhox6/escooters_are_worse_for_the_environment_than_many/ - Are e-scooters polluters? The environmental impacts of shared dockless electric scooters - https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1748-9326/ab2da8Nought (Scooter company) - Are e-scooters good for the environment? https://nought.tech/blogs/journal/are-e-scooters-good-for-the-environmentCenex - Maximizing t...
2024-08-0646 minGreening Up My ActRidesharing: Can We Vroom Vroom to Sustainability?Is ridesharing more sustainable than owning a car? Let's find out together on this episode of your favorite sustainability podcast. Hosts Tiff and Kat explain the (slightly shocking) study results, Uber's "road to zero emissions," and more. Vroom vroom!SourcesHyreCar sustainability claims: https://www.hyrecar.com/environmental-benefits-ridesharing/#how-does-ridesharing-contribute-to-the-improvement-of-the-environment Union of Concerned Scientists: https://www.ucsusa.org/resources/ride-hailing-problem-climate Yale Environment Review: https://environment-review.yale.edu/ridesharing-part-sustainable-future NRDC: https://www.nrdc.org/bio/rabi-abonour/report-role-uber-and-lyft-sustainable-cities Uber's road to zero emissions: https://www.uber.com/us/en/about/sustainability/ Rideshare Guy: https://therideshareguy.com/u...
2024-07-3052 minGreening Up My ActAmerica's Bus ProblemWe're back from summer break and ready to talk about public transit -- specifically, buses. Are they a better option for sustainable transportation? And why can't America get its act together when it comes to public bus systems?SourcesMIT Climate Portal Explainer - Public Transportation - https://climate.mit.edu/explainers/public-transportationWorld Resources Institute - Post-pandemic, public transport needs to get back on track to meet global climate goals - https://www.wri.org/insights/current-state-of-public-transport-climate-goalsCNBC - Here’s why public transit keeps running out of money - https://www.cnbc.com/2023/07/25/heres-why-public-transit-keeps-running-out-of-money.htmlTransit for Am...
2024-07-231h 09Greening Up My ActWe're taking a break -- we'll be back July 23!It's been a rough few weeks so we're taking a little time off. Thanks for your understanding.In the meantime, catch up on our past episodes or check out our Patreon!Patreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram: @greeningupmyactFacebook: Greening Up My ActEmail us with questions: greeningupmyact@gmail.comYouTube: Greening Up My Act
2024-07-0200 minGreening Up My ActAre Trains Greener Than Cars? All Aboard to Find Out!Ever wonder if passenger trains are actually a sustainable form of transport? Learn all about that in the newest episode of this fun sustainability podcast! Tiffany also covers her disaster of a cross-country Amtrak train trip in 2018 (and how to do it right if you're considering buying your own Amtrak tickets). SourcesBoston Consulting Group: https://www.bcg.com/publications/2022/riding-the-rails-to-the-future-of-sustainability European Environment Agency: https://www.eea.europa.eu/highlights/motorised-transport-train-plane-road Train company Brightline’s press release: https://www.gobrightline.com/press-room/2023/brightline-130-mph-milestone Popular Science on U.S. high speed rail: https://www.popsc...
2024-06-2540 minGreening Up My ActIs It Better to Bike?How much of an impact can you make on carbon emissions by choosing to ride your bicycle instead of driving? And is it always the best choice? Kat and Tiff put their bike helmets back on to discuss the pros and cons of being a bike commuter (or casual rider) in America. SourcesUCLA Transportation - How Riding a Bike Benefits the Environment - https://transportation.ucla.edu/blog/how-bike-riding-benefits-environmentBicycling for Beginners - REI - https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/getting-into-biking.htmlIs cycling safe? - Harvard News - https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2023/01/is-cycling-safe-in-many-cases-the-answer-is-noHow M...
2024-06-1849 minGreening Up My ActIs There Such a Thing as "Clean Diesel"?In our 50th (!!!) episode, Tiffany teaches Kat about the idea of "clean diesel" and how the U.S. government has been pushing it. Does it exist? Is it something you can use to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle? Or is it just a bunch of green hooey?Sources EPA on NOx: https://www.epa.gov/no2-pollution/basic-information-about-no2 US Department of Energy: https://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/di_diesels.shtml Scientific American on “clean diesel”: https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/can-diesel-finally-come-clean/ International Council on Clean Transportation: https://theicct.org/sites/default/files/Gas%20_v%20_Diesel_%20CO2_emissions_%20EN_%20Fa...
2024-06-1143 minGreening Up My ActAre Electric Vehicles Worth It?We're starting off season 5 with a controversial chat about electric vehicles and whether they're worth the switch. Subscribe to our new Patreon to get exclusive content and support the podcast! www.patreon.com/greeningupmyactSources: NPR - EV Batteries Hurt the Environment, but Gas Cars are Still Worse - https://www.npr.org/2024/05/09/1250212212/ev-batteries-environmental-impactThe Atlantic - The Best Hope for Electric Cars Could Be the GOP Districts Where They’re Made - https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/05/electric-cars-republicans-democrats-biden-infrastructure/678341/Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy - The U.S. National Blueprint for Transportation Dec...
2024-06-0451 minGreening Up My ActAnnouncement: Our Patreon Is Live!Hooray! Kat and Tiff are so excited to announce they launched a Patreon. If you're looking to support an independent podcast and you get value from their show, they'd love the support. The cost of one cup of coffee a month gives you a bonus episode every month (even between seasons)!Head here to sign up: patreon.com/GreeningUpMyActPatreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram: @greeningupmyactFacebook: Greening Up My ActEmail us with questions: greeningupmyact@gmail.comYouTube: Greening Up My...
2024-06-0301 minGreening Up My ActLies Your Childhood Told You About Tree Planting ProgramsIn the final episode of season 4, Kat and Tiff may break your heart a little as we discuss the truth about large-scale tree planting programs. But don't worry -- there's some hope for the forests.Season 5: Travel and Transportation starts June 4!Sources:U.S. Forest Service Plant-a-Tree Program - https://plantatree.fs.usda.gov/Yale Environment 360 - Are Huge Tree Planting Programs More Hype Than a Solution? - https://e360.yale.edu/features/are-huge-tree-planting-projects-more-hype-than-solutionCarbon Brief, Analysis:How some of the world’s largest companies rely on carbon offsets to ‘reach net-zero’ - https...
2024-05-0741 minGreening Up My ActWhat Are You Supposed to Do With Compost?Where exactly do you put compost? If you're as lost as Tiffany and Kat were, learn 9 easy ways to use compost. Whether you buy compost or make it, your favorite sustainability podcast is here to bring you all the tips on adding it to your indoor and outdoor plants.SourcesNYC Compost Project: https://earthmatter.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/tip-sheet-how-to-use-compost-cpts-htuc-f.pdfOregon State Uni. Extension: https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pub/em-9308-how-use-compost-gardens-landscapes Better Homes and Gardens: https://www.bhg.com/how-to-use-compost-7372129 Patreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactI...
2024-04-3048 minGreening Up My ActXeriscaping: The Landscaping of the FutureXeriscaping literally means "dry-scaping", and it's been popular in desert towns in the U.S. since the 80s and 90s. But it's got a lot of promise for fixing the issues you may have with making an eco-friendly lawn even if cactus isn't your aesthetic. Get some tips for xeriscaping on a budget in this episode of your favorite greenliving podcast. BONUS CONTENT: A bit about rain barrels!As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.PBS Newshour - What is xeriscaping? How you can turn your...
2024-04-2350 minGreening Up My ActAre Bee Hotels Worth the Space in Your Garden?This week on your favorite sustainability podcast, Tiffany teaches Kat about bee hotels and whether they're really saving the right bees. Watch out for tarantula hawks and the Wasp Surprise!Sources:UC Davis on ‘beewashing’: https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=30929Scientific journal PLOS One study on bee hotels: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0122126 Xerces Society: We should focus on habitat, not honey bees: https://www.xerces.org/blog/want-to-save-bees-focus-on-habitat-not-honey-bees “Honey bees are not in p...
2024-04-1649 minGreening Up My ActCanning: Is It Just for Trad Wives and Doomsday Preppers?What do you do when you've grown too many tomatoes? Other than pawning them off on coworkers, you can try canning. But is this home method something anyone can do? Or is it just the realm of doomsday preppers and stay-at-home trad wives? Explore the eco-friendliness of home canning with Kat and Tiff in the latest episode of your favorite sustainability podcast. Bonus: count how many times Kat mentions asparagus.Sources:Clemson College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences - Canning Foods at Home - https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/canning-foods-at-home/All Recipes - I Was...
2024-04-0938 minGreening Up My ActAre Biodegradable Pots Any Good?Are biodegradable flower pots full of greenwashing? It depends. Listen as hosts Tiff and Kat jump over the moon for CowPots (and trip and fall over others). Find out what biodegradable plant pots are made of, how they work, and which ones studies say work best in this episode of your favorite sustainability podcast.SourcesCowPots website: https://cowpots.com/Biodegradable pot trial: https://img1.wsimg.com/blobby/go/b802d35a-acf9-4af8-ac90-86d48343570f/downloads/2016%20Poster%20from%20MSU.pdf?ver=1705439455031EPA review of CowPots: https://www...
2024-04-0242 minGreening Up My ActVegetable Gardening: Wasteful or Worth It?Spring has sprung and gardeners across the U.S. are planting their vegetable gardens. Find out if growing your own tomatoes will reduce your carbon impact and save you money in the latest episode of your favorite green living podcast. Sources:The Garden Continuum - 6 environmental and health benefits of growing your own food - https://www.thegardencontinuum.com/blog/the-6-environmental-and-health-benefits-of-growing-your-own-foodInvestopedia - The Cost Effetiveness of Growing a Garden - https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0312/the-true-cost-of-growing-a-garden.aspxTreehugger - How to prevent food waste in your garden - https://www.treehugger.com/how-prevent-food-waste-garden-5201349Empress of Dirt...
2024-03-2647 minGreening Up My ActLeave the Leaves: Three Cheers for Lazy Gardening!Word on the street is that leaving your leaves on your lawn -- rather than keeping up with perfect lawn care -- is better for the environment. But is it? Marketing writers Tiff and Kat explore potential greenwashing behind the popular hashtag in this fun episode of your favorite sustainability podcast. SourcesTreehugger: https://www.treehugger.com/is-it-better-to-rake-or-leave-leaves-4864213 National Wildlife Federation: https://blog.nwf.org/2014/11/what-to-do-with-fallen-leaves/ Canadian Press: https://www.cbc.ca/news/science/don-t-rake-leaves-ncc-1.4887187 EPA Environmental Fact Sheet: Yard Waste Composting: https://shorturl.at/cdfIXYouTuber E Fleming: https://www.you...
2024-03-1938 minGreening Up My ActHardscaping: Part of a Balanced Landscaping BreakfastHardscaping isn't one of those flashy lawn replacement movements that you hear about on Instagram, but it's got some pretty interesting benefits. Listen as Kat and Tiff walk you through this underrated aspect of sustainable landscaping.Sources:The Spruce - What is Hardscape? https://www.thespruce.com/what-is-hardscape-2131060Ernest Maier - 7 Benefits of Adding Hardscaping to Your Outdoor Living - https://ernestmaier.com/7-benefits-of-adding-hardscaping-to-your-outdoor-living/Unit Paving - A Beginner’s Guide to Sustainable Hardscape Design - https://unitpaving.com/a-beginners-guide-to-sustainable-hardscape-designEPA - Greenscaping Brochure - https://archive.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/tools/greenscapes/web/html/brochure.htmlWater Co...
2024-03-1237 minGreening Up My ActWildflower Lawns for Everyone!Tiff and Kat take you through the pros and cons of the wildflower lawn movement -- the kinder, gentler alternative to turf lawns that could be a gateway drug to overthrowing your HOA. Explore how to spot greenwashing in the world of wildflower and meadow lawns with your two favorite marketing writers in this upbeat sustainability podcast.Sources:American Meadows - Plant a Wildflower Lawn & Transform Your Yard to a Pollinator Paradise - https://www.americanmeadows.com/content/wildflowers/inspiration/get-this-look-pollinator-yardNational Wildlife Federation - Greening Your Homeowners Association - https://www.nwf...
2024-03-0550 minGreening Up My ActCan I Replace My Lawn With Clover?Clover lawns are all the rage — but should they be? Hosts Tiff and Kat answer:What eco-friendly claims do folks make about clover yards? Are they true?Why is Reddit so uncomfy?What are the disadvantages of clover lawns?Explore how to spot greenwashing in the world of clover lawns with your two favorite marketing writers in this upbeat sustainability podcast.SourcesMartha Stewart: https://www.marthastewart.com/8322420/clover-lawns Gardenia Creative Gardens: https://www.gardenia.net/guide/native-plant-alternatives-to-trifolium-repens Podcast: Backyard Ecology episode on clover: https://www.backyardecology.net/clovers-native-clover-conservation-clover-yards-and-more/ Reddit - No...
2024-02-2745 minGreening Up My ActAre Lawns Evil? Exploring the No Mow MovementIs your turf grass destroying the planet — or is it more complicated than that? Welcome to season 4 of your favorite sustainability podcast, where hosts Tiff and Kat head to the Great Outdoors. In this episode, learn about potential greenwashing behind the no mow movement, whether not cutting grass for bees makes a real difference, and if you should nix your lawn altogether.Discover Magazine on lawns: https://www.discovermagazine.com/environment/your-perfect-lawn-is-bad-for-the-environment-heres-what-to-do-insteadNational Resources Defense Council on lawns: https://www.nrdc.org/stories/more-sustainable-and-beautiful-alternatives-grass-lawnThe Guardian on lawns: https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2022/jul/31/this-heatwave-is-a-reminder-that-grass-lawns-are-terrible-for-the-environmentScientific American on...
2024-02-201h 04Greening Up My ActUPDATE: Season 4 Coming February 20Good news and bad news, friends of Greening Up My Act!The bad news: We had to delay season 4 until February 20.The good news: We have a whole new format which will be easier for us and more fun for you!Tune in Tuesday, February 20 wherever you get podcast. And thank you
2024-02-0500 minGreening Up My ActIs Dry Shampoo the Devil?Have you heard that dry shampoo causes cancer? In our last episode of season 3 (and first of 2024!), Kat and Tiff dig deeper into the savior of every harried working woman to find out if dry shampoo is as bad as you may have heard for your health or the environment and come up with more hope than you might expect. What we used:Batiste Dry ShampooSources:The Earthling Co., What’s Wrong with Aerosol Dry Shampoo?- https://theearthlingco.com/blogs/news/what-s-wrong-with-aerosol-dry-shampooAllure, Is It Time to Quit Dry Shampoo? https://www.allure.com...
2024-01-0237 minGreening Up My ActBonus Ep: Green New Year's ResolutionsIn this bonus episode of your favorite sustainability podcast, Kat and Tiff look back at the past year — and forward to the next year. Learn to set realistic green New Year's resolutions that you both care about and you can accomplish. And just remember: Progress wasn't built in a day. Or Rome. But also progress.Patreon: patreon.com/greeningupmyactInstagram: @greeningupmyactFacebook: Greening Up My ActEmail us with questions: greeningupmyact@gmail.comYouTube: Greening Up My Act
2023-12-2832 minGreening Up My ActAre Reusable Q Tips As Weird As They Sound?There are an estimated 550 billion cotton swabs thrown out every year. Now that's a statistic! So what's the alternative? In this greenwashing podcast, marketing writers Tiff and Kat examine the company LastObject's LastSwab and LastRound. The hosts say "swab" far too many times while determining if LastObject is full of it — or legit.As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.What We AnalyzedLastSwab from LastObject: https://amzn.to/3tvBUVJLastRound from LastObject: https://amzn.to/4avYwG3SourcesLastObject’s website: http...
2023-12-2649 minGreening Up My ActClean Hands and Clean Waterways: Bar Soap vs. Liquid SoapWashing your hands is probably second nature since the onset of the Plague 2.0, but the big question is: Which soap to use? And if you're interested in living as sustainably as possible, which soap has the least impact on the environment? Join marketing writers Tiff and Kat in this week's deep dive into potential greenwashing behind bar soap vs. liquid soap to learn which type of soap reigns supreme for washing germs down the drain without taking the Earth down the drain with it. What we usedDr. Bronner’s Castile Soap - https://am...
2023-12-1946 minGreening Up My ActShampoo Bars vs. "No Poo:" Why You Don't Have to Stop Washing Your HairThe horribly named "no poo" movement may need marketing help, but solid shampoo companies are making big claims. It's supposed to be "more sustainable shampoo," "plastic-free shampoo," "naked," "clean," or "vegetarian" choices. Are these claims just greenwashing (a.k.a. green hoey)? Or not? Find out from marketing writer hosts Tiff and Kat, along with one free trick that may be an even better use of your time in this funky sustainability podcast.What We AnalyzedLush Shampoo Bar's website: https://www.lush.com/us/en_us/c/shampoo-barsSourcesT...
2023-12-1243 minGreening Up My ActBeautycounter: Can Makeup Be Sustainable?If you find it hard to draw a line between "sustainable" and "non-toxic" products in the greenwashed landscape, marketing writers Tiff and Kat are right there with you. Join them this week as they explore the sustainability of makeup brand Beautycounter and see if it passes muster. What we usedBeautycounter makeup - Beautycounter.com SourcesAbsestos.com - https://www.asbestos.com/featured-stories/makeup-toxicity-survey/Sustainable Earth, Cosmetic Ingredients - https://sustainable-earth.org/cosmetic-ingredientsKite Nest, How Do Cosmetics Impact the Environment? - https://kitenest.co.uk/blogs/news/how-do-cosmetics-impact-the-environmentTree Hugger, E...
2023-12-0540 minGreening Up My ActIs Switching to Natural Deodorant Worth It?Stinky stories abound about natural deodorant: "It doesn't work. I still smelled like sh*t. My family started to avoid me." You get the picture. Marketing writers Tiffany and Kat cut through the greenwashing so you don't have to wonder if it actually helps the earth. Learn this and much more in this fun sustainability podcast. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.What we coveredPurelygreat Cream Deodorant: https://amzn.to/3uqMYU4Native Deodorant: https://amzn.to/46vPE03SourcesFast Company o...
2023-11-2852 minGreening Up My ActThe Anti-Black Friday Gift GuideIt's Thanksgiving, which means the consumer season is upon us! Skip Black Friday's buying frenzy this year and be grateful for what you have with our first Anti-Black Friday Gift Guide. Whether you make your own gifts, give digital gifts, buy local, or choose to opt out and maybe just give your time and affection this year, Tiff & Kat have a few ideas to help you make sustainable holiday choices. Happy holidays from your friends at Greening Up My Act!As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links....
2023-11-2146 minGreening Up My ActNo Gift Horses Here: Greener Holiday Wrapping Paper & CardsIs there such a thing as green wrapping paper or eco-friendly holiday cards? Join hosts Tiff and Kat on this sleigh ride of an episode to learn the answer, and how to avoid becoming 25% more wasteful during the holiday season. They discuss DIY wrapping paper and holiday cards, or if you ain't got time for that, more eco-friendly options from the store. And learn how to lumberjack it up by cutting down your holiday tree from a U.S. national forest in this zany sustainability podcast!Products we coveredWrappilyShiki WrapPlantable gift cardsSources...
2023-11-1441 minGreening Up My ActToilet Paper vs Bidets: Our Crappiest Episode YetFind out if toilet papers or bidets are more sustainable and count how many times Kat can say "butthole" in this week's episode of your favorite sustainability podcast.As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.What we used:Who Gives a Crap Bamboo Toilet Paper Tushy BidetSources:Cottonelle - How Much Toilet Paper Should You Use? Vox - America has never embraced bidets. The toilet paper shortage could change that. Ecoy - Toilet paper vs bidets: Which is greener? Brightly - Are Bidets Bett...
2023-11-0737 minGreening Up My ActBite Toothpaste Bits: A Toothpaste You Can Chew?What the heck are toothpaste tabs? Do they work? And are they more sustainable? Your hosts Tiff and Kat walk you through the marketing behind the company Bite, what Tiffany's dentist has to say about these Bits, and whether they're actually less wasteful in this fun and funky sustainability podcast. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.What we talked about:Bite Toothpaste BitsBite vegan flossSources:Tiffany's dentistBite Toothpaste website + blogBite Impact StudyEWG rating of BiteJournal of Odontostomatologic Sciences (Annali di...
2023-10-3152 minGreening Up My ActTampons, Pads, and "Blood Money," Oh My!: Reusable Period ProductsIn their bloodiest episode yet, marketing writers Kat and Tiff dive into reusable period products. (Freddy Kreuger ain't got nothing on them!) Get over your squeamishness and explore the impact tampons and pads have on the environment plus whether or not reusable products like menstrual cups and period panties are worth it. Join your favorite sustainability podcast for all the deets.As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are paid links.What we talked about:Keeper CupDiva CupThinx Period UnderwearKnix Period UnderwearSustainable Jungle's 9 Sustainable Period Underwear for a More...
2023-10-2447 min