Blog Archives

Avoid sunscreens that harm the environment

5/30/2019

A 2008 study published in Environmental Health Perspectives demonstrated that the ingredients in sunscreen cause coral bleaching, even at low concentrations. However, there are sunscreen products that are considered safe for the environment. Earth911.com created a list of eco-friendly sunscreens.* Some examples of their recommended sunscreens includes: Thinksport Sunscreen SPF 50, True Natural SPF 30 Caribbean Coconut Sunscreen, Kiss My Face Sport Hot Spots Stick Sunscreen SPF 30, Suntegrity SPF 30 Natural Mineral Sunscreen for Body, All Terrain AquaSport Sunscreen Lotion SPF 30, COOLA Organic Suncare SPF 50, Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Moisturizer.

*Mary Mazzoni June 17, 2016, Eco-Friendly Sunscreens for Summer. https://earth911.com/living-well-being/health/eco-friendly-sunscreens/

Non-toxic cleaning: Use vinegar for cleaning your bathroom

5/23/2019

Most mass-market cleaning products contain toxic chemicals that contaminate your air and can threaten your health. (See Green Tip on vinegar and water as a cleaning solution, February 8, 2019). To protect the environment and save money, here is another use for vinegar as a non-toxic cleaner for your bathroom from Greatist.com:

"Tubs and showers can produce some of the toughest grime, but it’s no match for the cleaning power of vinegar. To get rid of mildew, spray pure white vinegar on the offending area, let it sit for at least 30 minutes, and then rinse with warm water (don’t be afraid to use a sponge if rinsing doesn’t clear away the grossness on its own). Alternatively, try mixing together baking soda with a bit of liquid castile soap, then scrub and rinse."

*Laura Newcomer, March 19, 2015. 27 Chemical-Free Recipes for DIY Spring Cleaning. https://greatist.com/health/27-chemical-free-products-diy-spring-cleaning

Fight climate change by planting trees

5/18/2019

Consider planting more trees on your property. Trees and other vegetation currently absorb around a quarter of the CO2 humans are adding to the atmosphere, softening the potential impact of climate change.(1) In addition, trees add color to spring (dogwood, magnolia) and fall (maple), year-round green (pine, spruce, hemlock), and food and shelter for wildlife (holly, oak, beech).

To this end, cities like Philadelphia are working to increase their tree canopy. “Trees take the edge off the searing heat of summer. They soak up rainwater. And, recent academic studies have shown that greenery reduces crime and helps people battle depression.”(2) Swarthmore offers its own street tree planting program, selling trees at a discounted price which includes planting and mulching. (Be sure to choose a location that avoids the tree growing up into overhead wires). See Swathmore Borough web page for information about ordering a tree.

Sources:
(1) Oliver Milman, “Scientists say halting deforestation 'just as urgent' as reducing emissions,” theguardian.com, 4 Oct 2018
(2) “More city trees can help with climate change,” Editorial, The Inquirer, Philly.com, October 3, 2018

Photo by Susan O'Donnell

Plant pollinator-friendly flowers this spring

5/10/2019

Bee-friendly When Planting Your Flowerbed. Consider all of our hard-working pollinators when choosing plants for your yard this spring. As wildlife habitats are disappearing, we can help reverse this trend by planting native plants that help out our bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. We need them to pollinate our fruits and vegetables, so let’s help support them throughout the season! We have lots of wonderful options for Pennsylvania that will attract the pollinators and beautify our landscaping!

Avoid sunscreens that harm the environment

Non-toxic cleaning: Use vinegar for cleaning your bathroom

Fight climate change by planting trees

Plant pollinator-friendly flowers this spring

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