Try to imagine a journey with no rigid itinerary, no photos you've already seen a hundred times online, no urge to capture the exact same shot everyone else is queuing up for. 

It may be difficult.

Somewhere along the way, we have lost the instinctive, emotional connection to the places we visit, leaving travelers with nothing but the memory of something they'd already seen on a screen, and a landscape stripped of the authenticity it once had. Local traditions get reshaped, or hollowed out entirely, to meet visitor expectations, turning entire neighborhoods into stage sets for strangers hungry for a cliché. 

Even food doesn't escape this flattening: menus get translated, spice gets dialed down, and centuries-old recipes are simplified into whatever version is easiest for an unfamiliar palate to swallow, a quiet flavor homogenization that erases the very identity travelers came looking for.

Have we ever stopped to ask what these mass-travel habits, shaped by the social media era, actually cost? The damage is real, and it rarely announces itself all at once, it builds quietly, in three directions at once: the communities who call these places home, the ecosystems that sustain them, and the very idea of what travel was supposed to feel like.

**Effects on Communities**

Unchecked mass tourism erodes the character of the cities it descends upon, and the pattern is remarkably consistent everywhere it happens. Rising demand inflates real estate prices until residents in central neighborhoods can no longer keep up. Housing is converted into short-term rentals, and the nearby shops, pulled into the same current, grow pricier and reshape themselves around what visitors expect rather than what locals actually need. Small, independent businesses get swallowed by international chains chasing the same foot traffic, accelerating gentrification block by block. An overabundance of visitors can make even the simplest daily errands difficult, and nights grow loud with behavior residents never signed up for, until people stop recognizing their own neighborhood and stop feeling at home in it. 

Examples include:

- **Barcelona, Paris, Rome**: City centers are steadily depopulating as apartments convert into short-term rentals.
- **Bali**: Once known as a place to disconnect, immerse in ritual, and surf in peace, the island is now grappling with unchecked development that has filled it with chain hotels and shopping malls. Denpasar, the capital, sits under near-constant traffic and pollution, while beaches like Kuta struggle with waste management systems that were never built to keep pace with the crowds.

**Effects on Ecosystems**

Unregulated tourism growth is pushing some of the planet's most fragile ecosystems past their limit. Overconsumption of resources sits at the center of it, water and energy demand in tourist hubs regularly outpacing what the land can regenerate, leaving popular destinations under genuine water stress. Protected natural spaces degrade under the weight of waste that exceeds local disposal capacity, illegal activity that thrives wherever oversight is thin. Resort construction is pushed through in areas rich in biodiversity, with little regard for what's being paved over. Left unmanaged, none of this is temporary; the damage accumulates long after the last guest checks out.

Examples include:

- **Fragile habitats**: Excessive trampling in protected areas, natural “souvenir” collection (coral, shells), and unchecked construction all put biodiversity directly at risk.
- **Emissions and waste**: Travel and tourism accounted for 7.3% of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2024, while waste volumes in high-density tourist areas routinely exceed what local systems can handle.
- **Resource strain**: The Canary Islands absorbed over 10 million foreign visitors in the first half of 2025 alone, a scale of demand on water and energy that islands were never built to sustain.

**Effects on the Places Themselves**

**S**ome of the most damaging visitor flows aren't even the ones that stay. Hit-and-run tourism, massive crowds arriving for just a few hours before moving on, congests a destination's most fragile points without leaving much behind in return. 

Cruise tourism makes the imbalance obvious: in the Caribbean, ships account for the vast majority of all tourist arrivals, but because meals, shopping, and entertainment are already paid for on board, very little of what passengers spend ever reaches the shore. Thousands of people flood the same streets and monuments for just a few hours, overwhelming narrow historic centers built for a fraction of that traffic, then retreat back to the ship.

**What Can We Do?**

Being a responsible traveler doesn't require grand gestures, just a shift in how we show up:

- **Look with your own eyes, not through a screen: **Seek out the story behind a place instead of chasing the shot everyone else has already taken.
- **Spend where it stays:** Choose local shops, restaurants, and accommodations over the chains built to catch tourist traffic, they're the ones who actually reinvest in the community.
- **Ask, don't assume: **What's genuinely typical of a place often has little to do with the cliché sold to tourists. Locals are the best source.
- **Choose certified, not just labeled, sustainable: **Third-party sustainability certifications, GSTC-accredited ones especially, verify that a hotel or tour operator actually follows through on its claims, rather than just marketing itself as eco-friendly. When in doubt, ask if a property or operator has been certified before booking.
- **Leave the lightest footprint you can: **Dispose of waste responsibly, stick to marked trails, and stay mindful of water and energy use, both are often scarcer than they look from a hotel room.

None of these actions demand much, but they can be the difference between visiting a place, and quietly wearing it down. In the end, being a responsible traveler is really about listening to what draws us to travel in the first place: immersing ourselves in a culture, watching with admiration instead of interference, remembering that we are simply passing through a place whose history and identity existed long before us – and that deserves to go on long after.

What we should be bringing home isn't a checklist; it's stories, knowledge, and discoveries that actually change how we see things. We don't travel to check boxes off a disconnected list. We travel to grow.


Travel Without Harm: Becoming a Conscious Tourist in a Fragile World

The United States is falling behind the rest of the world in production and sales of electric vehicles (EVs), spurred by the Trump administration’s aggressive actions to undo measures intended to curb the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving climate change. But ultimately the transition away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles cannot be stopped, EV advocates say.

Sales of electric vehicles climbed by 20% globally in 2025, including a 33% spike in Europe, _[Inside Climate News ](https://michiganadvance.com/2026/02/15/the-first-casualty-of-trumps-climate-action-repeal-the-u-s-ev-transition/)_[reported in February](https://michiganadvance.com/2026/02/15/the-first-casualty-of-trumps-climate-action-repeal-the-u-s-ev-transition/), citing the research firm Rho Motion. Meanwhile, U.S. sales dropped 4% for the year.

“While it's hard to say how long it will take, I am confident that EV technology will prevail in the U.S. the same way it will prevail worldwide. EVs are a far superior technology,” said Ingrid Malmgren, senior policy director for the nonprofit Plug In America. Beyond their environmental and health benefits, they are more efficient, a better driving experience, and require less maintenance than gas-powered vehicles, she added.

“I do think that the U.S. will get to the point, it might be sometime in the 2030s, where we will start to accelerate like we've seen in Europe and in China,” said John Higham, vice president of communications and public affairs for the nongovernmental Electric Vehicle Association. “But I don't think that time is yet. And it's not because the cars aren't ready. It's not because the infrastructure isn’t ready. It's not even because the people aren't ready. But, unfortunately, it's because EVs have become politicized, and it is difficult for a certain segment of the population to admit that EVs are a good and viable option.”

**Power Politics**

Since President Donald Trump was re-elected to office in 2024, his Cabinet agencies have taken direct aim at EVs and clean energy more broadly.

In February, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency repealed the 2009 “endangerment finding” that formalized greenhouse gas emissions as a public health threat demanding regulation. Among other impacts, this automatically undoes restrictions on emissions from motor vehicles. Transportation is the No. 1 source of greenhouse gases in the United States.

[Trump cut off a program that provided up to $7,500 in federal tax credits for buying a new EV in late 2025](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/clock-ticking-for-ev-clean-energy-tax-credits/), more than seven years before the initiative was originally scheduled to expire. The administration has also sought to freeze the $5 billion National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program, established to deploy EV charging systems across the country, [but a federal judge ruled early this year the funds must be released](https://www.utilitydive.com/news/trump-administration-must-let-ev-charger-funding-flow-court-rules/810631/).

“All of the regulations that incentivize automakers to make more efficient, cleaner cars are being removed by this administration, so automakers are more likely to make high-profit gas guzzlers, essentially increasing short-term profits for automakers and long-term profits for gasoline companies,” Malmgren said. “This is at the expense of health, air quality, climate, and long-term competitiveness of the U.S. auto industry.”

Repeal of the endangerment finding is a “foundational move” against the economic stability of the United States, according to Higham. The best-case scenario for the moment is that automakers simply continue with their existing EV plans, recognizing that they are competing in a global auto market that is rapidly electrifying, he said. But that is not a given. “At its very minimum, it injects uncertainty into economic forecasts and it is difficult to be successful with that uncertainty.”

Domestic automakers are already showing signs of retreat from the EV market, _Inside Climate News_ noted. Late last year, Ford said it would halt production of its F-150 Lightning within a broader rollback on EV efforts. General Motors will also not proceed with anticipated EV production at a facility in Michigan.

**Fighting for EVs**

States, environmental organizations, and EV advocates are contesting the Trump administration’s moves in court. [Multiple lawsuits](https://news.bloomberglaw.com/environment-and-energy/epa-endangerment-finding-rollback-draws-first-legal-challenges) have already been filed against the repeal of the endangerment finding.

Individuals and communities also have key roles in advancing EVs, Malmgren and Higham said. “Certainly how you vote matters,” Malmgren told Earth Hero. “Folks should continue to educate themselves and understand how their members of Congress vote to ensure that their interests are represented.”

Both emphasized the importance of support for local pro-EV policymaking. City council budgets that fund charging infrastructure make it easier for drivers to convert to EVs, Malmgren said. Matters like site permitting for[ DC fast chargers](https://www.power-sonic.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-dc-fast-charging/) and utility access are also handled locally. That extends to revising state or local building codes to require EV charging at new multifamily homes, Higham said, highlighting lack of immediate multifamily residential access to chargers as a financial obstacle for many consumers. “A handful of local voices can change outcomes,” he said.

Personal connections are also important, Malmgren added. Many EV drivers bought their vehicles after learning about the experience from friends and neighbors.

**Beyond the Green**

Political polarization is not the only barrier to increased uptake of electric vehicles. Drivers who don’t care about EVs’ green bona fides must be persuaded that they are simply better rides, Higham said. “The people that need to be converted, they need to be converted because it's a better driving experience. It's fun to drive, and it's more economical, and those are the things that are going to win people over who have yet to be converted.”

Certain myths about electric vehicles also must be dispelled, Malmgren said.[ In a 2025 survey of more than 27,500 EV drivers worldwide,](https://survey.globalevalliance.com/) the Global EV Alliance found that 58% agreed or strongly agreed that myths on EVs made it difficult for them to persuade friends and family to buy a vehicle. Seventy-seven percent of respondents listed myths among the top barriers to EV adoption in their country.

“Disinformation creates and perpetuates fear, uncertainty, and doubt. Drivers in the U.S. are highly reliant on their cars, which can contribute to a general fear of change. False narratives about EV fires, inadequate range, and concerns about a lack of charging feed into this fear,” Malmgren said. “Between these myths and a fear of change, drivers may be influenced to stick with gas despite the many benefits EVs offer.”

Earth Hero offers dozens of actions that energy-minded individuals and communities can take to reduce their greenhouse gas output. You can find them [here](https://www.earthhero.org/act/category/energy/). Please also read [Earth Hero’s article](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/the-sun-is-not-setting-on-solar/) on the future of the U.S. solar industry.


Saving the EV Revolution in the USA

Remote work may be reshaping what your personal “footprint” looks like day to day, mostly by changing _where_ energy gets used and _how much_ you travel. The biggest environmental shift is obvious: fewer commutes. But the full equation is more personal than people expect, because some impacts drop while others simply move from office buildings to your home. So if you work remotely, or are considering working from home, some of the impact will depend on you.

**The Current State of Remote Work** 

While remote work has stabilized since the height of the pandemic, it remains significantly higher than pre-2020 levels. As of late 2025, approximately 22% of the U.S. workforce is remote, a nearly fourfold increase from the 6.5% seen before the pandemic.

The landscape has shifted toward a "hybrid" norm:

- **Hybrid is Dominant:** Roughly 52% of remote-capable employees now work in a hybrid arrangement.
- **Exclusively Remote:** This has declined from a peak of 70% in May 2020 to about 26% today.
- **Employee Preference:** Despite "return-to-office" (RTO) pushes from some CEOs, 98% of employees recommend remote work, and 60% of remote-capable workers prefer a hybrid model.

**The Big Tradeoff: Less Commuting, More “Home-Based” Energy**

When you work from home, you often cut transportation emissions because you’re driving less (or not at all). At the same time, your home may use more energy during the day—heating or cooling a space, running lights, powering devices, and keeping everything comfortable for longer hours.

So the environmental impact depends on your specific situation:
- How far you used to commute
- What [kind of transportation](https://macfoxbike.com/blogs/news/commute-without-car) you used
- How energy-efficient your home is
- How your remote routine affects errands and travel

**What Remote Work Can Reduce for an Individual**

Here are the places many people see a clear environmental upside:
- **Commuting emissions:** [fewer miles driven](https://smartasset.com/mortgage/what-will-my-commute-be) and less daily traffic time
- **Office-related energy (indirectly):** fewer days relying on office lighting, HVAC, and shared building operations for your daily work
- **Business travel:** more meetings handled virtually rather than through higher-impact travel

**What Remote Work Can Increase (If You’re Not Intentional)**

Remote work isn’t automatically “greener.” A few rebound effects can creep in:
- **Higher [home energy use](https://www.arcadia.com/blog/the-hidden-energy-costs-of-working-from-home):** especially in extreme weather seasons
- **More non-work driving:** replacing commute miles with extra trips throughout the day
- **Always-on device use:** more hours with screens, chargers, and equipment running

**Learning for Remote-Friendly Work While Staying Sustainable**

Online learning can help you build skills for remote or hybrid work without the extra commuting and campus time of in-person programs. It’s also a practical fit when you want career momentum with a more efficient routine.
One field that is growing in the remote arena is healthcare. It's important to review [healthcare degree programs](https://www.phoenix.edu/online-healthcare-degrees.html) to determine if this would fit your personal goals. Many roles now include remote or hybrid elements, and the work can directly support individuals and families. 

Online learning:
- Builds remote-friendly skills on a flexible schedule
- Cuts [commute time](https://www.futuretracker.com/whats-your-commuting-carbon-footprint) (and related emissions)
- Supports healthcare paths with meaningful impact

**Key Environmental Levers You Control**

- **Commute Miles**
    - _Why it matters:_ Often the single biggest swing factor in your personal footprint.
    - _Practical move:_ Keep your “no commute” days truly car-light by bundling all your errands into a single trip.
- **Home Heating and Cooling**
    - _Why it matters:_ High energy use at home can erase part of the environmental benefit of not commuting.
    - _Practical move:_ Close off unused rooms, adjust your thermostat slightly, and use fans strategically to stay comfortable.
- **Work Setup**
    - _Why it matters:_ Personal devices and peripherals draw power constantly throughout the day.
    - _Practical move:_ Use energy-saving sleep settings and completely shut down equipment when it’s not in use.
- **Virtual Meetings**
    - _Why it matters:_ Continuous high-definition [video adds an unnecessary load](https://greenspector.com/en/videoconferencing-apps-2022/) to data centers and network energy.
    - _Practical move:_ Switch to audio-only when you don’t strictly need the visuals for the discussion.
- **Daily Errands**
    - _Why it matters:_ Frequent small trips in the car multiply fast and increase local emissions.
    - _Practical move:_ Set 1–2 specific errand days per week instead of making daily "pop-out" trips.

**A Simple “Greener Remote Work” Routine**

If you want the benefits without overthinking it, [start here](https://greenly.earth/en-us/blog/company-guide/work-from-home-10-tips-to-reduce-your-carbon-footprint):

- **Bundle trips:** treat errands like a route, not random pop-outs
- **Right-size comfort:** a small thermostat tweak and closing doors makes a difference
- **Power down:** unplug idle chargers and reduce “always-on” devices
- **Use video intentionally:** save it for calls where it helps
- **Choose walking breaks when possible:** it reduces short car trips and clears your head

**The Bottom Line**

Remote work changes your environmental impact by shifting the “center of gravity” from commuting and office life to home energy and local habits. For many people, the biggest win comes from fewer car miles. If you want the benefits to stick, focus on the basics: keep trips efficient, manage home energy thoughtfully, and build a routine you can maintain without making life feel restrictive.


Remote Work: Making it Work for the Environment

BioGas from municipal solid waste and agricultural residues is becoming a cornerstone of the circular economy revolution. This model, which is based on reducing, reusing, and recycling materials, has gained traction with new technologies and a growing recognition of waste as a valuable resource.

Recent data shows the economic potential of this transformation. In 2024, analysts valued the circular economy market at about [463 billion](https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/circular-economy-global-market-report), and they project it will reach [518 billion](https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/circular-economy-global-market-report) in 2025, growing nearly 12% annually. Optimistic forecasts suggest the sector could hit [$798 billion](https://www.thebusinessresearchcompany.com/report/circular-economy-global-market-report) by 2029. The World Economic Forum estimates that if the global recycling rate reaches 95% (an aspirational target), the circular economy could unlock [5.6 trillion](https://www.anim8co.com/state-of-the-circular-economy) in opportunities between 2030 and 2050.

Urban centers face a significant challenge in managing municipal solid waste, since improper disposal contaminates soil and water. Converting this waste into BioGas offers a sustainable solution. Through anaerobic digestion, the organic fraction of MSW produces methane and carbon dioxide, which serve as renewable energy sources. Companies such as [Waste Management, Inc. (WM)](https://www.wm.com/) lead this effort, operating U.S. facilities that produce millions of cubic meters of BioGas annually. Their initiatives cut greenhouse gas emissions, reduce landfill waste, and supply energy for electricity, heat, or even renewable vehicle fuel. This positions BioGas as a key driver of the low-carbon economy while reducing fossil fuel dependence.

Agriculture also plays a strategic role in this revolution. Farmers can transform cattle, pig, and poultry waste, which is often discarded improperly, into BioGas. Anaerobic digestion not only generates energy but also produces nutrient-rich digestate that farmers can use as organic fertilizer, closing the nutrient cycle. The process reduces odors, lowers health risks linked to poor waste management, and increases rural energy self-sufficiency by providing power directly on farms.

Together, municipal and agricultural BioGas show how the circular economy can turn waste into opportunity. This model promotes environmental sustainability while also driving social and economic development. Yet the Circle Economy Foundation’s _Circularity Gap Report 2025_ reveals that the world is only 6.9% circular - meaning that this fraction of the materials that enter the global economy return to production cycles instead of becoming waste or emissions. The report stresses that real circularity requires more than minimizing the harms of a linear economy—it calls for systemic change that builds resilience, creates business opportunities, and delivers broad social and environmental benefits.

Investing in BioGas production and waste valorization technologies is essential to building a more sustainable and resilient future.
See other [Energy](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/category/energy/) and [Travel and Transport](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/category/travel-and-transport/) coverage in the [Earth Hero Articles](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/) section.


The Role of BioGas in the Circular Economy Revolution

Sustainability has become a central tenet of efforts across numerous industries seeking to reduce their contributions to climate change, from agriculture to construction to food and beverage - to aviation.

Like efforts in those other industries, there are many obstacles to widespread production and use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). To start, even the projected doubling of SAF production in 2025, to 2 million tonnes, would comprise just 0.7% of airline fuel need for the year, the International Air Transport Association said (as reported by[ _Airways_](https://www.airwaysmag.com/new-post/iata-agm-future-sustainable-aviation-fuel)_ _magazine). And even that amount would increase airlines’ fuel bills by $4.4 billion, illustrating the need to grow production and reduce costs if SAF is to be made economically viable.

Sustainable aviation fuel is produced using feedstocks that do not include petroleum in order to lower greenhouse gas emissions from air transportation, according to the [U.S. Department of Energy’s Alternative Fuels Data Center](https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/sustainable-aviation-fuel). While aviation represents just 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, it comprises 12% of those emissions from the transportation sector.

As of mid-2024, 18 companies were producing SAF and another 170 had announced plans for production, [according to Sustainable Aviation Futures](https://www.sustainableaviationfutures.com/saf-spotlight/global-saf-producers). The list of existing production pathways is shorter but extremely technical (for example, terms like “Fischer-Tropsch (FT) Synthetic Paraffinic Kerosene”).

The Biden administration included programs to drive up production of sustainable aviation fuel among a swath of initiatives aimed at reducing emissions and curbing climate change. That included, starting in 2021, an [SAF Grand Challenge](https://www.energy.gov/eere/bioenergy/sustainable-aviation-fuel-grand-challenge) to promote use of the fuel alongside three primary objectives: reducing life-cycle emissions by at least half compared to standard jet fuel; domestically produce three billion gallons of SAF annually by 2030; and increase that to 35 billion gallons by 2050 to meet domestic need.

Following Donald Trump’s re-election as president in November 2024, the Department of Energy is still working on synthetic aviation fuel in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Federal Aviation Administration, a DOE spokesperson said. “These efforts support the President’s Executive Order to Unleash American Energy Dominance, which calls out biofuels as a priority resource. DOE aims to increase the production of affordable, domestically produced fuels, create more export opportunities and fuel choices, support American farmers, and lower energy costs. Although DOE no longer uses the title ‘Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge,’ the Department will continue working with industry, researchers, and other agencies to meet these objectives."

The Biden administration’s landmark Inflation Reduction Act also provided tax credits for production of SAF - currently the Section 45Z program that ramps up from $0.11 per gallon for fuel that cuts life-cycle emissions by half to $1.75 for zero-emission aviation fuel. Section 45Z, the Clean Fuel Production Credit, is scheduled to continue at least through the end of 2027. Surprisingly, given the Trump administration’s dismissal of climate change and clean energy, the version of its “One Big Beautiful” tax bill passed by the House of Representatives in May would extend the credit program to Dec. 31, 2031.

The list of SAF feedstocks is long: corn grain; algae; various fats, oils, and greases; waste from wood mills; manure and other wet wastes; and energy crops. They could be blended at different levels with today’s industry-standard Conventional Jet A fuel. Crops grown specifically as feedstock for sustainable aviation fuel could comprise most of the supply in the next six to 10 years, Adam Klauber, vice president, sustainability and digital supply chain at SAF producer World Energy, said in an [article published in May by the Trellis Group](https://trellis.net/article/sustainable-aviation-fuel-plans-under-fire-over-crop-emissions/).

This trend, though, would undermine the sustainability of sustainable aviation fuel, according to the World Resources Institute (WRI). “Because the amount of the aviation fuel tax credits is based on the life cycle greenhouse gas emissions of the alternative fuel, the method used to calculate life cycle emissions is crucial,” the nongovernmental climate research organization stated in a[ January 2025 expert note](https://www.wri.org/research/united-states-should-not-turn-food-aviation-fuel). “If this calculation underestimates increased emissions and other environmental consequences of land-use change, then the tax credits could be counterproductive. Aviation fuel made from food and feed crops is currently the most technologically mature and least expensive alternative to petroleum jet fuel. The problem is that it raises food prices and does not meaningfully lower carbon emissions from aviation when land use impacts are considered - instead, likely increasing emissions.”

The Department of Energy projects that by 2030 effectively all U.S.-supplied alternative jet fuel will be derived from two crop-intensive sources, WRI said: hydroprocessing of used fats, oils, and greases, along with virgin vegetable oil, and converting corn alcohol or other alcohol types. Using soybeans and corn that would otherwise go to food and feed markets - which the WRI authors, U.S. director Dan Lashof and research associate Audrey Denvir, cited as the leading U.S. approach today - increases the cost of food and promotes deforestation, reduction in biodiversity, and emissions due to changing land uses, the report says.

The Treasury Department’s tax-credit program allows SAF producers to apply models “that include unrealistically low estimates of land-use change emissions from using food and feed crops,” WRI asserts. Specifically, the agency’s “guidance for implementing the credits for Section 45Z allows the use of an alternative model that yields lower estimates for life cycle emissions than the approach adopted by [the International Civil Aviation Organization]. Instead of correcting this problem, the revisions to the 45Z tax credit passed by the House would move in the opposite direction - eliminating any accounting for indirect land use change in estimates of life cycle emissions from alternative aviation fuels.”

Lashof and Denvir urged federal and state governments to focus on SAF feedstocks and technologies that avoid those food and land-use risks. For feedstocks, the report highlights waste biomass, carbon collected from the atmosphere, and clean hydrogen. Preferable technologies include biomass gasification and using clean hydrogen and captured carbon dioxide to produce electrofuels.

In[ a separate working report issued in May](https://www.wri.org/research/biomass-and-land-use-decarbonizing-us-economy), the World Resources Institute said use of biomass - which it defines as “any material of a biogenic origin, including woody crops, perennial herbaceous crops, food crops, forestry residues, certain municipal wastes, and agricultural residues” -  for aviation fuel must be conducted carefully.

“Crop-based biofuels, such as corn ethanol or soybean oil aviation fuel, are not effective uses of biomass for decarbonization,” the report says. “When the land-use cost is considered, it is clear that biofuels do not provide reduced greenhouse gas emissions over fossil fuels.”

The World Resource Institute said its modeling for carbon opportunity cost for using corn and soybeans as feedstock for energy rather than food - based on data from the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory - resulted in figures several multiples higher than the land use to biofuels figures applied by the federal Renewable Fuel Standard and California’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. For corn ethanol, a land-use emissions intensity of 103.6 grams of carbon dioxide equivalent per megajoule, compared to the Renewable Fuel Standard’s indirect land-use change emissions factor of 32 and the Low Carbon Fuel Standard’s 28; for soy bio-based diesel, 180.4, compared respectively to 36 for the federal standard and 29 for the state standard.

Speaking to Trellis, Klauber pushed back forcefully against the WRI position. “Context is everything,” the executive said, saying WRI researchers had applied a carbon intensity figure for soy production that was significantly elevated when compared to the figure employed by separate academic and environmental organizations. The farming approach should also be considered, Klauber added, noting the potential to grow biofuels at the same time or place as food crops, or during seasons when those food crops are not being cultivated.

“That is broadly accepted as a sustainable practice, but it’s not yet at commercial scale,” Klauber said. “We’re working to increase that, because that really will be a way to increase the productivity of land without impacting food.”

Consumers can take many actions to reduce their own transport and travel emissions. Earth Hero offers some recommendations [here](https://www.earthhero.org/act/category/travel-and-transport/).


Making Sustainable Aviation Fuel Sustainable

The world is on the move and increasingly, this movement is driven by clean energy. Electric mobility is not just a technological trend but a concrete step towards a healthier, more resilient, and fairer planet. In a time marked by climate challenges and accelerated urbanization, rethinking how we move around may be one of the most powerful decisions we make as a society.

**A new chapter in the history of transportation**
While for decades mobility was synonymous with burning fossil fuels, today we are witnessing a significant transformation. Electric vehicles (EVs) – from bicycles to trucks – offer a quiet, efficient, and non-polluting alternative, paving the way for cleaner cities and more sustainable lifestyles. The electrification of mobility is also an urgent response to the transportation sector, [responsible for around 25% of global energy-related CO₂ emissions (IEA, 2023)](https://www.iea.org/energy-system/transport/electric-vehicles). Replacing gasoline-powered vehicles with electric options can drastically reduce this impact. As electricity to charge EVs increasingly comes from clean sources, basically meaning not burning oil, gas, and coal, then less pollution ends up in our atmosphere.

**Growth that is already happening**
As most of us can see on the roads and elsewhere every day, the transition is already underway. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), [more than 14 million electric vehicles were sold worldwide in 2023, representing almost 20% of global new car sales](https://www.iea.org/reports/global-ev-outlook-2024/trends-in-electric-cars) – a jump from the 9% recorded in 2021. China is leading this movement, but countries in Europe, the United States, and even regions of the Global South have seen steady growth, driven by public policies, tax incentives, and greater environmental awareness. In addition, the variety of models available makes EVs accessible to different profiles and budgets. In many countries, an EV has already become the most cost-effective and better driving option thanks to technological advancements.

**Benefits that go beyond the environment**
Adopting an electric vehicle is also a choice that has a positive impact on everyday life. With a lower cost per kilometer driven and simplified maintenance, the driver's wallet will thank you. In addition, the lack of noise and smooth driving make the driving experience much more pleasant. Plus, some EVs have auto drive features that literally do 99% of the driving for you, which is a game-changer. Another important point is energy independence: when charged with solar or wind energy, EVs reduce our dependence on imported fuels and bring us closer to the much-desired energy sovereignty.

**Building a sustainable mobility ecosystem**
But electric mobility is not limited to private cars. In many cities, electric buses are replacing old fleets, and electric micromobility initiatives – such as shared bikes and scooters – are making urban transport more democratic and inclusive. Investing in charging infrastructure is also at the heart of this transition. According to the US Department of Energy, charging networks are expanding at a rapid pace: in the US alone, [there were more than 160,000 public charging stations installed by the end of 2024](https://afdc.energy.gov/fuels/electricity-locations#/find/nearest?fuel=ELEC), and with ultra-fast charging technologies, refueling a car could take less time than making a cup of coffee. Plus for many, it is much more convenient and cheaper to charge at home.

**An electric future that depends on all of us**
Electric mobility is a bridge between the present and the future. But its consolidation depends on conscious choices – from consumers as well as governments, companies, and communities. Every decision counts: supporting sustainable public policies, investing in renewable energy, and choosing vehicles with a lower environmental impact. Luckily, that is increasingly the easier choice to make with the technological advancements of EVs.

More than an innovation, electric mobility represents an opportunity. A chance to redesign our cities, reduce inequalities in access to mobility and ensure that the right to come and go is in line with the right to breathe clean air and live on a habitable planet. The engine of the future is already on. And it is electric.


Electric Mobility: Sustainable Paths to a Future in Motion

Ever finish eating while in a vehicle and wondered, "Where do I drop this trash?" This dilemma reflects a broader issue: the absence of simple waste management systems integrated into our vehicles. While vehicle manufacturers have initiated the idea of recycling old vehicles to reduce metallic waste and promote a sustainable environment, not many vehicle manufacturers have considered integrating waste management features into vehicle designs. Sophistication, comfort, and physical attraction often dominate design priorities, leaving practical solutions for everyday waste disposal overlooked.  However, integrating waste management features into vehicle designs can be a low-hanging fruit and a big deal in defining class and innovation.

**The Growing Waste Problem**

According to the United Nations report, municipal solid waste is predicted to rise from 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 to 3.8 billion tonnes by 2050 (See [global-waste management-outlook-2024](https://www.unep.org/resources/global-waste-management-outlook-2024)). Another report by the World Bank reveals that in 2020, an estimated 2.24 billion tonnes of solid waste were generated globally, equating to an average of 0.79 kilograms per person daily. This problem is intensifying, with projections indicating a 73% rise by 2050, resulting in an annual total of 3.88 billion tonnes (See [Solid Waste Management](https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/urbandevelopment/brief/solid-waste-management)). These costs manifest not only as direct waste management expenses but also through hidden costs such as environmental pollution, deteriorating public health, and climate change. Mismanaged waste contributes to pollution, poor public health, and environmental degradation, with oceans bearing the cost of plastic contamination. To address this, innovative solutions are urgently needed and the redesigning of vehicles to accommodate waste disposal can be a part of this answer.

**Rethinking Vehicle Design**

While manufacturers focus on sophistication, class, and comfort, few have considered how vehicles could directly contribute to solving environmental crises. Adding waste management features like waste bags, buckets, or simple hanging spaces could revolutionize how we tackle waste disposal on the go.  Public buses could also have separate compartments for recyclables, biodegradable waste, and general trash, reducing landfill contributions.
Imagine vehicles equipped with waste management systems designed to simplify and encourage proper disposal.

These features could include:

**_Built-In Waste Bins or Bags_**
Small, discreet waste compartments in passenger vehicles could provide convenient places for passengers to dispose of trash without littering. These bins could be removable for easy cleaning and replacement.

**_Hanging Waste Spaces_**
Adding hooks or designated spaces for waste bags inside vehicles whether private cars or public transport would address the "where do I drop this" dilemma. A simple addition like this would go a long way in reducing roadside litter.

**The Environmental Benefits**

In an era where sustainability is critical, incorporating waste management features represents a forward-thinking opportunity. Beyond comfort and performance, vehicles can embody environmental responsibility.** **Adding waste disposal features to vehicles could significantly reduce litter in public spaces, improve recycling rates, and lower the environmental burden of waste mismanagement.

Consumers could also play a role in this transformation by demanding sustainable vehicle features and using them responsibly. Governments and regulatory bodies can also incentivize manufacturers to adopt eco-friendly designs, including waste management systems. Public-private partnerships could pilot waste-friendly vehicle designs in cities, especially in areas grappling with waste crises.

By redesigning vehicles with waste disposal systems, we can shift from viewing vehicles solely as transport tools to seeing them as agents of environmental preservation. We can make vehicles part of the solution, one waste bag or bucket at a time.

For other waste management ideas, see [From Waste to Wealth: Paid Waste Returns Could Be a Double Win for Developing Countries](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/from-waste-to-wealth--paid-waste-returns-could-be-a-double-win-for-developing-countries/). 


Driving Out Waste: Designing Vehicles with Built-In Disposal Features

Hydrogen, the lightest, simplest, and most abundant element in the universe, found in water and air, has been referred to as the “fuel of the future” due to its potential importance in the energy transition, in line with the [Paris Agreement’s 2015](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/?uri=CELEX:22016A1019(01)) goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050.

However, not all hydrogen has environmental benefits. In the context of reducing carbon emissions to curb climate change, green hydrogen, also referred to as H2V, has emerged as one of the most promising alternatives to address global energy challenges.

**Why is Green Hydrogen receiving so much attention?**

Green hydrogen is a type of renewable energy generated from natural resources. Unlike conventional hydrogen, which usually comes from fossil fuels, green hydrogen is produced using electricity from renewable sources, such as solar or wind power, to convert water into hydrogen and oxygen through a process known as electrolysis. The result is an ecological and sustainable fuel that can be used in a variety of applications, from fueling vehicles to providing energy for industrial sectors.

The Ronald Reagan International Trade Center in Washington D.C. is a center of discussions on this new energy matrix, thanks to the [Hydrogen Americas Summit & Exhibition](https://www.hydrogen-americas-summit.com/hydrogen-americas-2024-executive-summary/). This initiative, which involved academia, industry, government, and society, focuses on the theme of green hydrogen and its importance in the global energy landscape.

The meeting, promoted by leading entities in the sector, is intended not only to discuss the opportunities and obstacles of green hydrogen, but also to stimulate trade and inform society about the energy change underway. Several research projects and academic papers related to H2V were presented. These studies addressed a variety of topics, ranging from the manufacture and storage of hydrogen to its distribution, certification, and safety. As part of this effort, the government has implemented initiatives such as the [Hydrogen Shot Initiative](https://www.energy.gov/eere/fuelcells/hydrogen-shot), which aims to significantly reduce spending on green hydrogen production by 2030.

In addition, public-private partnerships are being encouraged to establish regional hydrogen infrastructure and hubs, with an emphasis on regions with high potential for renewable energy, such as Texas and California. These initiatives seek to make green hydrogen a viable alternative for decarbonizing industrial and freight transport sectors, such as steel manufacturing and freight transportation.

**Obstacles and Opportunities**

The United States faces obstacles, however, such as the need to build a solid infrastructure and reduce costs for the production and distribution of green hydrogen. Yet the country has a great chance of leading the global market, especially if it can scale up production effectively. Green hydrogen can play a key role in decarbonizing areas that are difficult to electrify, promoting the energy transition not only in the United States but globally.

Keep in mind that knowledge of climate change is essential to comprehending its consequences on our Earth and helping to reduce those effects via sound decision-making. [Check out various ways to get involved!](https://www.earthhero.org/act)


Green Hydrogen: A Path to the Age of Renewable Energy

As the world races toward a greener future, electric vehicles (EVs) are often hailed as a solution for reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change. With “zero emissions” advertisements plastered on their exteriors, EVs have captured the imagination of governments and environmental advocates alike. But are they truly the climate savior they are marketed to be, or does the hype exceed reality?

The good news is that EVs are better for our environment and health than internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, which run on burning oil. [EVs are roughly half as polluting as ICE vehicles.](https://www.factcheck.org/2024/02/electric-vehicles-contribute-fewer-emissions-than-gasoline-powered-cars-over-their-lifetimes/) However, this does not negate that their production and operation still contribute to carbon emissions and environmental impact. For instance, [a report](https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/how-much-co2-emitted-manufacturing-batteries) by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) revealed that the manufacturing of electric vehicle batteries, particularly the extraction and processing of materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, all of which are significant raw materials used in the production process, produces significant emissions.

According to this report, although EVs create fewer emissions over their lifetime compared to ICE cars, the initial production phase of EVs, especially the battery, results in 80% more emissions than conventional vehicles, which indicates the need for more sustainable battery technologies and cleaner energy sources for both production and charging.

Another critical aspect that should be examined is the environmental impact of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which houses the majority of the world's cobalt reserves (also see [Exploitation in our Phones: How the World Failed Congo](https://www.earthhero.org/articles/exploitation-in-our-phones--how-the-world-failed-congo)). While cobalt is a key component in electric vehicle (EV) batteries, contributing to the global push for renewable energy, the mining process itself raises serious environmental and ethical concerns. 

Reports have highlighted that cobalt extraction often leads to deforestation, soil degradation, and contamination of water sources, severely affecting local ecosystems. Moreover, the improper disposal of mining waste contributes to air and water pollution, which not only harms biodiversity but also poses health risks to nearby communities. This paradox highlights the environmental costs of sourcing materials necessary for green technology, underscoring the need for sustainable mining practices in the transition to clean energy.

A [report](https://globalforestcoalition.org/the-dark-side-of-technology-coltan-mining-in-the-drc-and-its-human-rights-and-environmental-impacts/) by the Global Forest Coalition revealed that extensive research has linked the mining of coltan, or columbite-tantalite, a metallic ore used in many modern electronic devices in the DRC to large-scale environmental degradation, with devastating consequences for the region. Other research by the [Global Forest Watch](https://theconversation.com/what-coltan-mining-in-the-drc-costs-people-and-the-environment-183159) platform revealed that the DRC has lost 8.6% of its tree cover since 2000, and coltan extraction has been identified as a major driver of deforestation. 

Also, the manual process of separating minerals involves washing them in streams and rivers. This is done by using chemicals that pollute water bodies and produce radioactive substances harmful to aquatic life and human health according to [GCF reporting](https://www.globalforestwatch.org/dashboards/country/COD/).

Another important consideration is that the manufacturing process, particularly for the large lithium-ion batteries that power EVs, generates substantial carbon emissions. For instance, producing an 80 kWh lithium-ion battery, like the one used in a Tesla Model 3, can release between 2.5 and 16000 kg of CO2, depending on the energy source used in production. This means that building an EV can result in up to 80% more emissions than manufacturing a conventional gasoline-powered vehicle.

Consequently, the environmental impact of EVs must be assessed not only in terms of their operational emissions but also through the full lifecycle of production, from mining raw materials to battery disposal. In other words, electric vehicles (EVs) may not emit greenhouse gasses from their tailpipes, but their "zero emissions" label is not entirely accurate. This highlights the need for greener energy sources in battery manufacturing to truly realize the benefits of EVs for environmental sustainability.

More research needs to be conducted to discover alternative ways of producing batteries, such as using more sustainable materials like sodium, sulfur, or even solid-state batteries, which are less dependent on scarce and ethically problematic resources like cobalt and lithium. These alternatives could significantly reduce the environmental and human costs associated with current battery production, paving the way for greener and more ethical energy storage solutions for electric vehicles.

In the short term, EVs may not offer the perfect zero-emissions solution. But in the long run, they are a part of the strategy to reduce carbon pollution and mitigate climate change. So, are they the true climate savior? Perhaps not on their own, but they are undoubtedly a step in the right direction.

**What then can we do? **
There are alternatives to driving, in some instances. They include walking more, as trekking can reduce carbon emissions by minimizing the use of vehicles. Walking not only reduces personal carbon footprints but also promotes healthier living. Another option is cycling, which offers similar benefits to walking while being faster and still emission-free. The recycling of EV batteries will also reduce carbon footprints while also generating recycling revenue as revealed by [various research studies](https://trellis.net/article/ev-battery-recycling-is-building-a-circular-economy-from-scratch/).

Additionally, increasing the use of public transportation can significantly lower overall emissions, as buses and trains carry more passengers, reducing the number of individual vehicles on the road. These methods, when adopted on a larger scale, contribute to reducing our environmental impact and easing the strain on our planet.


Electric Vehicles: A Climate Savior or Just Noise?

_This is the first in a series of articles that will provide guidance on how taxpayers in the United States can receive federal tax credits under provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) of 2022 intended to promote clean energy._

The U.S. government is offering a straightforward route for consumers to receive up to $7,500 in federal tax credits for buying an electric vehicle (EV) – file the correct form with your upcoming tax return and claim the benefit. But “straightforward” does not necessarily mean “simple.” Here’s what you need to know when filing Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 8936.

Signed into law on August 16, 2022, the[ Inflation Reduction Act](https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/08/15/by-the-numbers-the-inflation-reduction-act/) (IRA) contains, among a host of provisions, $369 billion for a decade of clean energy and associated incentives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions that are the primary contributor to climate change. The legislation is a central component of past and present activities that [the Department of Energy (DOE) projects](https://www.energy.gov/sites/default/files/2022-08/8.18%20InflationReductionAct_Factsheet_Final.pdf) could by 2030 reduce U.S. emissions by 40 percent from 2005 levels.

The IRA revised the existing Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit, now rechristened the Clean Vehicle Credit. The program in 2023 and going forward provides a maximum of $7,500 in federal income tax credits for purchasing new four-wheel all-electric, fuel cell-electric, and plug-in hybrid vehicles, as well as $4,000 for used EVs, under Internal Revenue Code Section 30D. The authorized amount of nonrefundable credit would be applied to a filer’s tax payment for the year – for example, $7,500 from a $10,000 federal income tax bill, leaving just $2,500 to pay.

As described in [this explainer from the White House](https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy/clean-energy-tax-provisions/), the credits are available to buyers with adjusted gross incomes in the present or prior year of no more than $300,000 for couples, $225,000 for heads of households, or $150,000 for single tax filers, which means most people qualify.

Fortunately there are tools to help you figure out which vehicles qualify for the tax credit. For example, you can check [NerdWallet](https://www.nerdwallet.com/article/taxes/ev-tax-credit-electric-vehicle-tax-credit#:~:text=As%20of%202023%2C%20people%20who,tax%20returns%20filed%20in%202024.), which lists the eligible makes and models. The [Fuel Economy website](https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml) also has a tool to check what qualifies.

To be eligible, a new vehicle’s battery capacity cannot be less than 7 kilowatt hours, and its gross vehicle weight rating must be under 14,000 pounds, according to the [DOE](https://fueleconomy.gov/feg/tax2023.shtml#requirements). Only EVs from “qualified” automakers will be considered, except for fuel-cell vehicles. 

One new requirement is that EVs must undergo final assembly in the United States to be eligible for the credits if they are purchased and put into service after August 16, 2022. The vehicle must also be purchased for one’s use, rather than for resale, and it must be used largely in the United States, [according to the IRS](https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/clean-vehicle-and-energy-credits). The manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) for eligible vehicles also maxes out at $55,000 for vehicles such as passenger cars or sedans and at $80,000 for vans, pickups, and SUVs, as noted by NerdWallet.

Half of the total credits for a new EV -- $3,750 – are available for vehicles with batteries that are built with a certain percentage of critical minerals such as lithium or cobalt that are extracted or processed in the United States or in a country that has a free trade agreement with the United States, or for batteries with a certain percentage of critical minerals recycled in the U.S. The percentage was 40 percent in 2023, which will increase by 10 percentage points annually to 80 percent in 2027 [the Treasury Department says](https://home.treasury.gov/news/press-releases/jy1379#:~:text=Critical%20Mineral%20Requirement&text=For%202023%2C%20the%20applicable%20percentage,applicable%20percentage%20is%2070%20percent.). The other half of the credits are available for vehicles in which a “threshold percentage” of the value of battery components comes from parts built or assembled in North America – 50 percent in 2023, 60 percent for 2024 and 2025, then rising by 10 percentage points annually to 100 percent after 2028.

The tax credit for used vehicles is capped at 30 percent of the sales price, no more than $4,000.

Further updates are expected in 2024. For one, the IRS aims to provide EV buyers with the option of taking the tax credit or passing it on to the vehicle seller to reduce the cost of the vehicle during the transaction.

Tax filers will need to provide some specific information on [Form 8936](https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8936.pdf) when they submit it with their Form 1040 income tax form. Required information includes the EV’s vehicle identification number (VIN); the vehicle’s year, make, and model; the date the vehicle went into service; the percentage of vehicle business or investment use; and more. The IRS provides line-by-line instructions on filing Form 8936 [here](https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i8936) and this is part of online tax filing tools as well.

The tax credit program is currently scheduled to continue to Dec. 31, 2032. The Biden administration hopes it will contribute to the [White House target](https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy/ev-acceleration-challenge/) to have EVs comprise half of all U.S. vehicle sales by 2030, from less than 10 percent today. The program’s future appears stable, though there is always the potential for an antagonistic presidential administration to seek to repeal IRA provisions after the 2024 election with assistance from like-minded lawmakers, [as highlighted by this article](https://medium.com/@PeteAltman/will-the-inflation-reduction-act-survive-the-2024-elections-5c1f94abdfb5) from Pete Altman of the Natural Resources Defense Council.

In the next article, we’ll look at tax credits available under the IRA for residential clean energy and home improvements that increase energy efficiency. In the meantime, Earth Hero has recommendations for improving energy efficiency at [home and work](https://www.earthhero.org/act/category/home-and-work), from [reducing food waste](https://www.earthhero.org/act/46-reduce-food-waste) to [adding rooftop solar to your house](https://www.earthhero.org/act/category/home-and-work).


What You Need to Know About Electric Vehicle Tax Credits

Walking and bicycling are not just means of locomotion – If used in place of gas-powered vehicles at sufficient levels, these approaches for getting from place to place can contribute to global reductions in the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that are driving climate change.

Advocates around the world are working to make their communities more friendly to pedestrians and bicyclists, building on decades of similar efforts. Many of these groups are eager for volunteers to join their campaigns.

“Given that transportation is the leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, reducing emissions from transportation is an essential part of fighting climate change,” said Ted Villaire, communications director for the Chicago-area advocacy group the Active Transportation Alliance. “With more than half of all trips in the US under three miles, there are enormous opportunities for more people to walk or bike for many of those trips. The problem is the lack of good infrastructure for people walking and biking.”

This contribution to reducing greenhouse gasses is small but not negligible [ In a 2013 report](https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy13osti/55635.pdf), the U.S. Department of Energy estimated that improvements to promote “nonmotorized” means of transport, such as walking or biking in urban areas, could cut on-road vehicle GHG emissions by close to 1%. The nongovernmental [Congress for the New Urbanism](https://www.cnu.org/publicsquare/2021/08/31/ten-environmental-benefits-walkable-places) and others have put the concrete impact of a walkable environment at 4 tons of lower greenhouse gas emissions annually, versus a suburb that relies more on vehicles. By comparison, [according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency](https://www.epa.gov/greenvehicles/greenhouse-gas-emissions-typical-passenger-vehicle), just one “typical” passenger vehicle emits 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) each year.

But everything counts in an all-hands-on-deck call in the battle against climate change. And there are many additional benefits to increasing the ease of walking and bicycling to a community, Villaire said. He cited costs savings to individuals who can walk and bike more, along with advancements in environmental justice and improved community health.

Paris-based professor Carlos Moreno developed the concept of the “15-minute city” – a municipality in which most services are no more than a quarter-hour away from any location by walking, biking, or public transit. The idea has caught on, in different forms, in cities ranging from Barcelona, Spain, to Kirkland, Wash.

But this requires a community in which walking or bicycling is safe and accessible, which is not the case in many locations around the United States, particularly spread-out suburbs. So how do we get there?

The [U.S. Surgeon General](https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/reports-and-publications/physical-activity-nutrition/walking-sectors/index.html) points the way: “All Americans use roads, and most people across the country use sidewalks and live in communities that have planned how their land will be used. Transportation, land use, and community design planners have the power to increase opportunities for walking and improve the pedestrian experience by designing and maintaining communities and streets to make them safe and accessible for people of all ages and abilities.”

Along with having high-use locations such as schools and employment sites within walking distance, streets and sidewalks must be designed and managed so that they are safe and easy to use, the Office of the Surgeon General said. Many parts of the community can then promote walking: Schools, for example, can establish routes for students to safely walk from home, while employers can encourage their staff to walk through incentives such as flexible work time.

This work can take many paths, as demonstrated by the long work of the Active Transportation Alliance (ATA) and its partners in the Chicagoland region. “Repeatedly voicing your concerns with elected leaders pays off,” Villaire stated. “When leaders know that people want streets that are safe and welcoming for those who are walking and biking, leaders will listen. When leaders know that community members want public transit that is fast and reliable, leaders tend to support those initiatives.”

Within [a long list of accomplishments](https://activetrans.org/about-us/our-organization/our-accomplishments), the Active Transportation Alliance and other local groups spent decades making the case for separate paths for pedestrians and bicyclists for the Lakefront Trail along Lake Michigan in Chicago. As of 2018, what had been an 18-mile mixed-use trail was divided into an 18-mile bicycle trail and an 18.5-mile pedestrian trail. The update reduced congestion on the trail and created “a better overall park experience,” according to the Chicago Park District.

In 2021, ATA supported state legislation in Illinois that would require the state to pay the full cost of infrastructure for walking or bicycling on state roads. Previous law had forced local municipalities to pay 20% of the cost, a burden that hit low-income areas particularly hard, according to ATA. Following a public campaign in favor of the bill, with support from thousands of individuals, Illinois House Bill 270 was signed into law in August 2021.

The Active Transportation Alliance (among many like-minded groups around the United States) [is seeking volunteers](https://activetrans.org/about-us/get-involved/volunteer) to “join a community of advocates helping promote walking, biking and public transit throughout Chicagoland.”

And as your communities become more walkable and bikeable, Earth Hero can help you reduce your reliance on vehicles. Here are Earth Hero actions you can take for [biking](https://www.earthhero.org/act/8-bike-instead-of-drive) or [walking](https://www.earthhero.org/act/552-within-walking-distancequest-walk!) instead of driving.  


Use Your Feet and Bicycles to Help Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

When you launch the [free Earth Hero app](https://www.earthhero.org/app/) (and we certainly hope that you do this regularly, or will very soon), you’ll be greeted by a rotating selection of salient and thought-provoking quotes from some of the world’s great thinkers. One of these quotes is from global climate leader Greta Thunberg, who said, “You're never too small to make a difference”.

Indeed, small is a very big deal. 

That concept is one of Earth Hero’s [guiding principles](https://www.earthhero.org/principles), namely that, “We support quick, simple, ‘easy’ personal actions, as they may help shift the culture within a household or change a local community, but they also count in motivating people towards further action.”

It’s also a main reason why many people choose to use the Earth Hero app. Alex Young of Nashville, USA, said he regularly launches the app to identify and implement “quick fixes" that help him decrease his carbon footprint. “I can, on a daily basis, while sitting on that couch over there, reduce the number of emails that I'm going to get, or reduce the number of promotional product mailers I get, or just understand what is my time-to-value with each of these things, which has been very good,” he told Earth Hero team member Sabrina Morellato during a recent app-user interview. 

And success in implementing smaller solutions can lead to gratifying, ongoing success, he noted. “Actions become easier as you do them several times. Like talking about climate. Hard at first, but it becomes easier as I learn how to implement and maintain an action.”

Mohamed Assem, of Canada, added that the app’s large selection of small, achievable actions allows users to participate in the effort to combat climate change, without feeling overwhelmed.  “The point of being an environmentalist is not to put too much pressure, but to use it in a positive way, not guilting myself,” he said.

And as a recent reviewer said on the Apple App Store: “[The Earth Hero app] teaches you that one person really can make a massive difference and not even with too much effort!”

When Mohammed and Alex and others all accomplish “quick fixes”, without feeling overwhelmed, it certainly adds up, and helps move the needle. As Vincent Van Gogh said, “Great things are done by a series of small things brought together.”

To help you get started with thinking small, we have compiled the following selection of “quick, simple, ‘easy’ personal actions.” You can use these to begin your journey, or to enhance the efforts that you are already making to decrease your carbon pollution. All of these actions, and more, are available on the Earth Hero app, where you can see how each small action you take contributes to the greater objective of addressing the climate emergency.

## **ADVOCACY & CHOICE**

**_1. Research Investing Jargon_**
Prioritize understanding investment jargon, whether you're an experienced investor or new to the field. Gain financial wisdom to support suitable companies and enhance your investments. Mastery of sustainable investment language empowers better financial decisions, aligning your investments with environmental values.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/280-research-investing-jargon>

**_2. Drawdown Climate Solutions 101_**
Dive into a free, enlightening video course on tackling the climate crisis! Hear from global leaders and expand your toolkit for positive change. Whether you're new or seasoned, explore solutions (and check out the trailer) at the [Drawdown Climate Solutions 101 site](https://drawdown.org/climate-solutions-101). 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/453-drawdown-climate-solutions-101>

**_3. Write YOUR Representatives_**
Our actions matter, but the battle for our future needs everyone! If leaders stay stuck in pollution, we're stuck too. Let's rally! Elected folks shape the rules. Join Earth Heroes, join forces, and ping your reps about our needs.

Learn more here: https://www.earthhero.org/act/180-write-your-representatives

**_4. Watch Top Climate Documentaries_**
Boost decision smarts with fun science docs! Get clued in on climate, talk the talk, and be a change champ. Dive into cool films for a hotter planet.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/308-watch-top-climate-documentaries>

**_5. Research and Vote Accordingly_**
Familiarize yourself with representatives from local to national levels. Look beyond media portrayals, researching their environmental stance, affiliations, and solutions support. This brief effort enlightens you, aids informed voting, and facilitates discussions with peers. Identifying shared interests forges collaborative change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/287-research-and-vote-accordingly>

**_6. Change Search Engine to Ecosia_**
Ecosia's not your typical search engine. They plant trees with every click! Hundreds of million so far, mainly in climate-vulnerable areas. Plus, they rock solar power for eco-friendly browsing. Small step, big win. Join the millions already using it and search with purpose.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/238-change-search-engine-to-ecosia>

**_7. Follow Sustainable Influencers_**
Explore sustainable influencers if you're into social media and visual learning. Sharing their content sparks conversations and introduces sustainability to others. Even subscribing boosts their reach, reaching new audiences unfamiliar with the concept.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/510-follow-sustainable-influencers>

## **FAMILY & COMMUNITY**

**_8. Talk About Climate_**
Speak up! Combat the climate crisis by discussing it openly. Sharing personal emissions and actions highlights the issue's personal relevance, inspiring action. Everyday conversations reach a wider audience, making a bigger impact than formal talks.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/168-talk-about-climate>

**_9. Join a Climate Action Group_**
Join a climate action group to amplify your voice collectively. Together, you'll learn, gain resources, allies, and confidence in your climate activism journey. Forge friendships with fellow passionate climate activists along the way.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/233-join-a-climate-action-group>

**_10. Thank Climate Change Trailblazers_**
Shift social norms by vocally supporting positive actions. Expressing gratitude not only fosters well-being but also impacts givers, receivers, and observers. Thank early green adopters in your community for driving positive change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/260-thank-climate-change-trailblazers>

**_11. Review Eco-Friendly Businesses_**
Online reviews shape decisions for products, restaurants, and experiences. Review eco-friendly places to aid discovery and promote sustainable businesses. Hold non-sustainable ones accountable. Your voice drives positive change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/212-review-eco-friendly-businesses>

**_12. Like, Comment, Share_**
Liking, commenting, or sharing a post sends a powerful signal and triggers positive effects. Social media algorithms favor interactive posts, amplifying positive environmental messages. Each interaction promotes a culture of progress in society.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/214-likecomma-commentcomma-share>

**_13. Be a Better Gift Giver + Receiver_**
Balancing climate actions with loved ones' preferences is complex. Harness gifting as a chance to influence positively. Choose eco-friendly gifts that enhance their lives and consider handling unwanted gifts gracefully. Your choices inspire a broader ripple effect, impacting beyond your circle.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/265-be-a-better-gift-giver-plus-receiver>

**_14. Borrow Library Books_**
By borrowing instead of buying books, each copy is read by multiple people - reducing the number of copies that need to be produced. This saves trees, and reduces the associated transportation fuel usage. 

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/684-borrow-library-books>

**_15. Watch Top Climate Documentaries_**
Boost decision-making with knowledge. Enjoy science documentaries to grasp the climate crisis, enhancing your advocacy for impactful solutions and a brighter future.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/308-watch-top-climate-documentaries>

## **FOOD**

**_16. Eat More Nuts!_**
Nuts are a top choice in terms of nutrition and environmental impact. Efficient production, low carbon emissions, and carbon storage in nut trees make them planet-friendly. Their natural state provides sustained energy and potential health benefits, promoting weight loss and well-being.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/283-eat-more-nuts>!

**_17. Drink Plant Milk_**
Plant-based milk options, like oat, almond, and coconut milk, gain popularity for various reasons: environmental concern, cow treatment, and taste preference. With over a third of some populations already consuming non-dairy milk weekly, the trend is growing. Cow milk's vast production, methane emissions, and land use contribute to climate issues and deforestation. Explore plant-based alternatives for a more sustainable and possibly tastier choice.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/284-drink-plant-milk>

**_18. Reduce Food Waste_**
Cut food waste to save resources and money. Discarded food wastes water, land, and energy from production and transportation. Global per-person food waste is substantial, equating to significant financial loss. Reducing waste could have a massive positive impact on both the environment and economy. Join the movement!

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/46-reduce-food-waste>

**_19. Save Singles at the Supermarket_**
Opt for single bananas and loose produce to save money, cut food waste, and reduce plastic use. The myth of faster banana ripening in bunches means you can choose exact amounts. Combat household food waste, which drains money and resources, while supporting eco-friendly shopping practices.
Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/430-save-singles-at-the-supermarket>

## **HOME & OFFICE**

**_20. Change Light Bulbs to LEDs_**
Boost energy efficiency by switching to LEDs as bulbs burn out. This collective effort slashes energy use and pollution. Longer-lasting LEDs save time, money, and energy costs compared to incandescents, lasting 25,000+ hours versus 1,000.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/80-change-light-bulbs-to-leds>

**_21. Wash Clothes on Cold Cycle_**
Modern detergents with enzymes are more effective in cold water, being gentler on clothes, preventing fading and shrinking. Cold water washing saves money too, as 90% of energy used in laundry is from water heating, while just 10% powers the washer motor.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/92-wash-clothes-on-cold-cycle>

**_22. Turn Down Your Water Heater_**
Lowering your water heater's temperature not only saves money but also prevents scalding accidents. Many heaters are set hotter than needed; adjust the temperature to conserve energy and experience the benefits.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/108-turn-down-your-water-heater>

**_23. Unsubscribe from Email Lists_**
Unwanted spam emails harm the environment by consuming energy, often from non-clean sources. Unsubscribing curbs energy waste from both sender and receiver, saving time and resisting unnecessary purchases. Unsubscribe for a minor personal benefit and a positive environmental impact.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/227-unsubscribe-from-email-lists>

**_24. Use Cloth Napkins and Towels_**
Join the trend: swap paper for cloth napkins and towels, conserving trees and funds. Elevate your home, cut waste, and ditch disposable products for a more convenient, eco-friendly choice.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/135-use-cloth-napkins-and-towels>

**_25. Use Bar Soap, Shampoo, and More_**
Traditional liquid personal care products like hand soap, shampoo, and conditioner come with hidden environmental costs due to plastic packaging and shipping water. Bar options, with lower carbon footprints, offer a greener alternative. Compact, waste-reducing, and efficient, they help cut down on plastic waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/482-use-bar-soapcomma-shampoocomma-and-more>

**_26. Gift Plants and Cuttings to Others_**
Share plants and cuttings as gifts for a generous act with added benefits. Plants enhance aesthetics, air quality, and mental well-being, fostering care for nature. Gifted plants promote mindfulness and positive mental health, while also potentially aiding biodiversity and community connections.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/341-gift-plants-and-cuttings-to-others>

**_27. Manage Your Fridge and Freezer_**
Refrigerators and freezers are major energy consumers at home, especially if aged. Enhance efficiency by setting optimal temperatures, sealing doors, cleaning coils, and maintaining airflow. Properly filling them to about three-quarters capacity boosts cooling and reduces energy usage.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/215-manage-your-fridge-and-freezer>

## **TRAVEL & TRANSPORT**

**_28. Drive More Efficiently_**
Cars, motorcycles, buses, and taxis contribute significantly to global emissions. Regardless of your vehicle's efficiency, driving smarter saves money and cuts pollution. If you are still driving a vehicle that uses gas/petrol/diesal, each drop of saved fuel lessens climate impact, and improved driving habits could enhance fuel efficiency by nearly 40%.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/20-drive-more-efficiently>

**_29. Stop Vehicle Idling_**
Switch off your gas vehicle when idle, even at lights or stops if you are still driving a vehicle that uses gas/petrol/diesal. Improve local air quality, protect health, and combat pollution. Engine idling links to asthma, heart disease, and lung cancer due to emissions. Implementing this easy habit makes a difference.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/28-stop-vehicle-idling>

**_30. Avoid Hotel Toiletries_**
Carry your own toiletries for convenience and reduced plastic consumption. Admire but avoid single-use mini products. Opt for bar soaps and mention bulk dispensers to hotel staff. This small change lessens plastic demand and contributes to fighting climate change.

Learn more here: <https://www.earthhero.org/act/515-avoid-hotel-toiletries>

**BUT THAT’S NOT ALL!** Didn’t find an action that fits your lifestyle? There are plenty more ideas for easy yet impactful actions on the[ Earth Hero website](https://www.earthhero.org/act), and in our[ amazing free app](https://www.earthhero.org/app). Please visit, download, and start doing anything you can to help save the planet.


Travel and Transport

Reduce your carbon footprint through sustainable transportation choices and travel habits.