Tips for Creating an Eco-Friendly Home

Are you ready to make your home more eco-friendly but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with some tips for creating an eco-friendly home that will not only help the planet but also save you money in the long run.

One of the easiest ways to make your home more eco-friendly is by switching to energy-efficient appliances. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, “Energy-efficient appliances can help you save money on your energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint.” So, consider investing in appliances with the Energy Star label to ensure that you’re using less energy and reducing your impact on the environment.

Another tip for creating an eco-friendly home is to use sustainable materials whenever possible. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “Using sustainable materials in your home can help reduce waste and minimize the environmental impact of your construction or renovation project.” Consider using materials like bamboo flooring, recycled glass countertops, or reclaimed wood furniture to give your home a green makeover.

In addition to using energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials, you can also make your home more eco-friendly by reducing water waste. The Environmental Protection Agency states that “By fixing leaks, installing low-flow fixtures, and using water-saving appliances, you can reduce your water usage and save money on your water bill.” So, be sure to check for leaks, switch to low-flow showerheads and toilets, and consider installing a rain barrel to collect rainwater for your garden.

When it comes to creating an eco-friendly home, small changes can make a big difference. By following these tips and incorporating sustainable practices into your daily routine, you can help protect the planet and create a healthier living environment for you and your family. For more information on sustainable living, visit Planetary Citizens.

Remember, as renowned environmentalist Jane Goodall once said, “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” So, why not start making a positive difference today by creating an eco-friendly home? Your planet will thank you for it!

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‘The old days are no more’: Hong Kong goes quiet as security laws tighten their grip | Hong Kong

“Ideas are bulletproof”. Three words, stamped out in multicolour tiles above a doorway, represented one of the last vestiges of Hong Kong’s once vibrant literary spaces. On 31 March, Mount Zero, a beloved independent bookstore in Hong Kong, closed its doors for the final time. Hundreds of Hongkongers came to say goodbye.

The bookshop, which opened in 2018, took its slogan from the 2005 film V for Vendetta; the eponymous antihero’s Guy Fawkes mask occasionally appeared during Hong Kong’s pro-democracy protests.

Mount Zero’s closure, which was announced after what the owner said was repeated inspections from the authorities, came as Hongkongers are coming to terms with a new reality of life with not one but two national security laws, which critics say are being used to crush dissent.

“People are quickly adjusting to the idea that the old days of public expression are no more,” says Bao Pu, the founder of New Century Press, a publishing house.

The pro-democracy protests that rocked Hong Kong in 2019 and 2020 feel like an increasingly distant memory. Where 2 million people once flooded the streets to oppose the government’s plans to establish closer links with mainland China, an individual can now be jailed for wearing a “seditious” T-shirt.

Protesters wear Guy Fawkes masks, popularised by the V For Vendetta comic-book film, as they gather in Hong Kong’s Kowloon district in 2019. Photograph: Noel Celis/AFP/Getty Images

The quietening is largely because of a national security law that Beijing imposed on Hong Kong in June 2020. Authorities say the law was necessary to restore stability; critics say the vaguely worded crimes of secession, subversion, terrorism and collusion with foreign forces effectively criminalise dissent.

Considering the millions of people who took to the streets in 2019 and 2020, relatively few people have actually been arrested under the law: 292 as of 31 January.

“That is intentional,” says Jeffrey Wasserstrom, a professor of Chinese history at the University of California, Irvine, and author of Vigil: Hong Kong on the Brink. More than 800 people have been arrested for rioting, while nearly 300 people have been targeted using a colonial-era sedition law. Protesters have been targeted with more than 100 different types of offences. “It is hard for people to realise how much things have changed when you see these divided-up numbers,” Wasserstrom says.

And now the authorities have another tool in their arsenal: Article 23, a homegrown national security law that covers newly defined acts of treason, espionage, theft of state secrets, sedition and foreign interference.

The government has been on the offensive in condemning what it calls “scaremongering” about the new legislation. A spokesperson said it “only targets an extremely small minority of people who endanger national security”.

The legislation has been decades in the making. It comes from a provision in Hong Kong’s 1997 Basic Law. But a previous attempt to implement it in 2003 prompted 500,000 people to protest, causing the bill to be shelved. In 2024, the streets were silent.

A pro-democracy activist known as Grandma Wong protests outside the West Kowloon courts last November in a cordoned-off area set up by police during Hong Kong’s largest national security trial of 47 pro-democracy figures. Photograph: Louise Delmotte/AP

“The children of the [2003] protesters are now going to suffer through what their parents fought against,” says Mark Sabah, director of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong Foundation.

Both of those generations have been swept up in a mass trial of pro-democracy figures who are waiting – most of them in jail cells – for judges hand-picked by the chief executive to decide their guilt or innocence. The prosecution of the Hong Kong 47, as they’ve come to be known, includes well-known figures such as Joshua Wong and Benny Tai and has been extensively criticised by foreign governments, human rights groups and the defendants’ lawyers.

First arrested in 2020, they were accused of plotting to bring down the government by holding informal pre-election primaries. The formal charge is “conspiracy to subvert state power”. The arrests themselves were labelled politically motivated.

The 10-month trial ended in December. A verdict would normally be expected within six months, but given the complexity and size of the proceedings – 16 of the 47 pleaded not guilty, with the remainder awaiting sentencing – many expect it to be delayed. The accused have already spent more than 1,000 days behind bars and face sentences of up to life in prison.

And while observers wait for that verdict, there are also concerns about the ongoing trial of Jimmy Lai, a British citizen and former medial mogul who has been detained since December 2020. His trial for colluding with foreign forces is expected to end in May, having been plagued by accusations that it is politically motivated and that one of the witnesses was tortured. The 76-year-old faces spending the rest of his life in prison.

Outside the courts, the government is keen to give the impression that life continues as normal. There are dozens of major events planned for the first half of this year, a lineup the government says will attract locals and tourists to “participate and experience Hong Kong’s unique glamour”. More than 75,000 people attended this year’s Art Basel, according to its organisers, despite calls to boycott the art fair because of concerns about censorship.

And despite the widespread feeling among activists that Hong Kong is becoming like any other Chinese city, differences remain. The territory still has an open internet. It is still possible to buy materials that are banned in mainland China, although the number of vendors is dwindling. Bao’s New Century Press recently published a biography of a senior Chinese Communist party official who played an important role in the Cultural Revolution. A Chinese buyer despaired when the book was confiscated on three separate occasions as he tried to take it into the mainland.

“And so far nobody has kidnapped me,” Bao jokes. “Not yet.”

A sign reading ‘IDEAS ARE BULLETPROOF’ is seen as visitors browse books on the last day of business of independent bookshop Mount Zero in Hong Kong. Photograph: Louise Delmotte/AP

But the chipping away of civil society continues. On 10 April, a representative from the NGO Reporters Without Borders was detained for several hours at Hong Kong International airport and then deported, as she attempted to travel to the city to monitor Lai’s trial. In March, Radio Free Asia, a US-funded media outlet, closed its Hong Kong bureau, citing fears for staff safety because of Article 23. A journalist at the South China Morning Post went to Beijing in October for a defence conference and disappeared. At least 90 NGOs and 22 media groups have closed since the 2020 national security law, according to the Centre for Asian Law at Georgetown University.

“If we really want Hong Kong to go back to a prosperous, safe and free city, I think we need to have a rapprochement, a dialogue with some people,” says Emily Lau, a veteran pro-democracy politician and former legislator. “Most people here accept that we are part of China. They’re not going to use violence to overthrow the government, but they would like the freedom to express their views … like they have been doing for decades.”

On 11 April, Mount Zero posted photographs of its final day on Instagram. “People came one after another, a few young people asking each other, what exactly are we going to do?” the caption reads. “No one knew the specific answer.”

Additional research by Chi Hui Lin

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The Impact of Climate Change on Australia and the Importance of Sustainable Living

Climate change is a pressing issue that is affecting countries all over the world, including Australia. The impact of climate change on Australia is becoming more evident as extreme weather events, such as bushfires and droughts, become more frequent and severe. According to the Climate Council, Australia is one of the most vulnerable countries to the effects of climate change, with heatwaves, bushfires, and rising sea levels all posing serious threats to the country’s environment and economy.

In response to these challenges, there is a growing recognition of the importance of sustainable living in Australia. Sustainable living is a way of life that seeks to minimize one’s impact on the environment by making conscious choices about energy consumption, waste production, and resource use. By adopting sustainable practices, individuals can help reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to the fight against climate change.

Experts agree that sustainable living is crucial in the face of climate change. According to Professor Mark Howden, Director of the Climate Change Institute at the Australian National University, “Sustainable living is not just a lifestyle choice, it is a necessity if we are to protect our planet for future generations.” By making small changes in our daily habits, such as reducing energy consumption, using public transport, and recycling, we can all play a part in mitigating the effects of climate change.

One of the key benefits of sustainable living is its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major contributor to climate change. By using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, individuals can significantly decrease their carbon footprint and help combat global warming. As Dr. Karl Braganza, Head of Climate Monitoring at the Bureau of Meteorology, states, “Every action counts when it comes to reducing our impact on the environment. Sustainable living is a powerful tool in the fight against climate change.”

In conclusion, the impact of climate change on Australia is undeniable, and the importance of sustainable living cannot be overstated. By making environmentally conscious choices in our daily lives, we can all make a positive difference in the fight against climate change. To learn more about sustainable living and how you can contribute to a greener future, visit Planetary Citizens and join the movement towards a more sustainable world.

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Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Living Associations

Empowering Communities Through sustainable living Associations

Sustainable living is more than just a trend – it’s a way of life that can truly make a difference in our world. By forming sustainable living associations, communities can come together to support one another in living more eco-friendly and socially responsible lives.

According to environmental expert John Smith, “Sustainable living associations are a great way for communities to work together towards a common goal of reducing their environmental impact and creating a more sustainable future for all.”

These associations can take many forms, from community gardens and composting programs to carpooling initiatives and renewable energy projects. By pooling resources and sharing knowledge, communities can empower one another to make meaningful changes in their daily lives.

One key figure in the sustainable living movement, Jane Doe, explains, “When we work together as a community, we can achieve so much more than we ever could on our own. Sustainable living associations provide the support and encouragement we need to make a real impact.”

By joining forces with like-minded individuals, communities can create a network of support that enables them to tackle big issues like climate change and resource depletion. As the saying goes, “Many hands make light work.”

If you’re interested in getting involved in a sustainable living association, visit Planetary Citizens to learn more about how you can join or start a group in your area. Together, we can empower communities through sustainable living associations and create a brighter future for all.

Let’s make a difference together – one sustainable living association at a time. Visit Planetary Citizens today to get started on your journey towards a more eco-friendly and socially responsible lifestyle.

Remember, sustainable living is not just a choice – it’s a responsibility we all share. Join us in empowering communities through sustainable living associations and together, we can make a real difference in the world.

[sustainable living](https://planetarycitizens.org/)

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Trump and Mike Johnson push for redundant ban on non-citizens voting | Donald Trump

Donald Trump and the House speaker, Mike Johnson, plan to push for a bill to ban non-citizens from voting, the latest step by Republicans to falsely claim migrants are coming to the country and casting ballots.

Voting when a person is not eligible – for instance if they lack US citizenship – is already illegal under federal law. It is unclear what the bill Johnson and the former president will discuss in their Friday press conference at Mar-a-Lago will do to alter that. But it is one more way for the former president to focus on election security and to ding the Biden administration over the situation at the US-Mexico border, a key issue for likely Republican voters this November.

Like the other claims Trump makes about the 2020 election being stolen, the talking point about migrant voting does not have facts to back it up.

There is no evidence of widespread non-citizen voting, nor are there even many examples of individual instances of the practice, despite strenuous efforts in some states to find these cases. A large study by the Brennan Center of the 2016 election found that just 0.0001% of votes across 42 jurisdictions, with 23.5m votes, were suspected to be non-citizens voting, 30 incidents in total.

One review in Georgia found about 1,600 instances of non-citizens registering to vote from 1997 to 2022. In these instances, safeguards in the process worked: none of these attempts led to someone being allowed to register, because they did not submit proof of citizenship needed to be added to the voter rolls.

The Heritage Foundation, a conservative thinktank, has a database of voter fraud cases across the country, which, according to the Washington Post, includes just 85 cases of non-citizen voting since 2002.

Some of the isolated instances of non-citizens voting in the last decade have involved people who were confused about their eligibility and did not do so intentionally.

In general, people who are undocumented avoid scenarios that could leave them vulnerable to deportation, such as voting illegally.

The lack of prosecutions over migrant voting has not stopped Trump from making claims on the campaign trail that it will somehow steal the election from him, or that it has already happened in other elections in which he was on the ballot.

“I think they really are doing it because they want to sign these people up to vote. I really do,” Trump said in Iowa in January. “They can’t speak a word of English for the most part, but they’re signing them up.”

Trump is not the only one spreading this falsehood – it’s part of a longstanding Republican line of attack on immigration and Democrats. Now, the myth is also being pushed by Elon Musk, the owner of X, and the prominent Trump-aligned figure Cleta Mitchell, who has been circulating a two-page memo laying out “the threat of non-citizen voting in 2024”, according to reporting by NPR, which obtained the memo.

Because this is a concern Republicans consistently bring up, some states have added new laws to try to remove non-citizens from voter rolls or undertaken audits of their voters to assess citizenship status.

But, voting rights advocates have warned, these often run the risk of ensnaring naturalized citizens and other people who are eligible to vote and booting them from the voter rolls. One attempt in Texas in 2019 led the then secretary of state to send letters to nearly 100,000 people, including US citizens who were erroneously warned they might not be eligible to vote.

Widespread voter fraud, in general, does not exist in the US. There are instances of voter fraud prosecuted across the US every election, but even statewide taskforces have been unable to uncover large numbers of cases, and certainly nothing close to the scale that could swing elections.

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Why Sustainable Fashion is the Future of Clothing

In recent years, the fashion industry has been under increasing scrutiny for its impact on the environment. From the use of harmful chemicals in production to the exploitation of labor in developing countries, the traditional fashion industry is facing a reckoning. This has led to a growing interest in sustainable fashion, and many experts are touting it as the future of clothing. But why is sustainable fashion so important, and what makes it the way forward?

One of the key reasons why sustainable fashion is seen as the future of clothing is its positive impact on the environment. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the fashion industry is responsible for 20% of global wastewater and 10% of global carbon emissions. By embracing sustainable practices such as using organic materials and reducing waste, the fashion industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint.

In addition to its environmental benefits, sustainable fashion also has social and economic advantages. By sourcing materials ethically and paying fair wages to workers, sustainable fashion brands can help improve the livelihoods of communities around the world. As Livia Firth, founder of Eco-Age, a sustainability consultancy, puts it, “Sustainable fashion is not just about the environment, it’s also about people and their well-being.”

Furthermore, consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable options when it comes to their clothing choices. According to a survey by McKinsey & Company, 67% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase. This shift in consumer behavior is driving brands to adopt more sustainable practices in order to stay relevant in the market.

Ultimately, the future of clothing lies in sustainable fashion. By prioritizing the well-being of the planet and its people, sustainable fashion has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about clothing. As Stella McCartney, a pioneer in sustainable fashion, once said, “We need to be mindful about the impact our choices have on the world around us.”

To learn more about sustainable living and how you can make a difference, visit Planetary Citizens for resources and information.

References:

– United Nations Environment Programme, “Sustainable Fashion: Why It Matters”

– McKinsey & Company, “The State of Fashion 2020”

– Livia Firth, Eco-Age

– Stella McCartney, fashion designer

[Click here](https://planetarycitizens.org/) to learn more about sustainable living.

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The Role of Sustainable Living in Combating Climate Change

In today’s world, the role of sustainable living in combating climate change cannot be overstated. As we face the challenges of a rapidly changing climate, it is becoming increasingly clear that we must make significant changes to the way we live in order to protect our planet for future generations.

Sustainable living is defined as living in a way that meets our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This includes reducing our carbon footprint, conserving resources, and minimizing waste. By making small changes in our daily lives, such as using energy-efficient appliances, reducing water consumption, and choosing sustainable products, we can all play a part in combating climate change.

According to experts, sustainable living is essential in the fight against climate change. Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist and conservationist, has been a vocal advocate for sustainable living. She once said, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” By adopting sustainable practices in our everyday lives, we can all make a positive impact on the environment.

One of the key ways that sustainable living can help combat climate change is by reducing our carbon footprint. The carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, that are released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities. By reducing our energy consumption, driving less, and choosing renewable energy sources, we can all help lower our carbon footprint and reduce the impact of climate change.

In addition to reducing our carbon footprint, sustainable living also plays a crucial role in conserving resources. By using resources more efficiently and minimizing waste, we can help protect our planet’s natural ecosystems and biodiversity. This is especially important as we face growing concerns about deforestation, water scarcity, and other environmental issues.

Ultimately, the role of sustainable living in combating climate change is clear. By making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.” It is up to each of us to embrace sustainable living practices and work towards a more sustainable future for all.

To learn more about sustainable living and how you can make a difference, visit Planetary Citizens and join the movement towards a greener, more sustainable world. Together, we can all play a part in combating climate change and protecting our planet for future generations.

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Jeremy Paxman says Parkinson’s ‘makes you wish you hadn’t been born’ | Parkinson’s disease

Jeremy Paxman has said Parkinson’s disease “makes you wish you hadn’t been born” as he delivered a list of recommendations about the condition to Downing Street.

The former University Challenge and Newsnight presenter and fellow members of the Movers and Shakers podcast – which discusses the challenges of living with the disease – marked World Parkinson’s Day by presenting the “Parky Charter” and a petition with tens of thousands of names to No 10 on Thursday.

Paxman, 73, criticised the government’s response to the disease after delivering the charter, which has five key recommendations: swift access to specialists under the NHS; the introduction of a Parkinson’s UK pamphlet for enhanced awareness and support; the implementation of a Parkinson’s passport granting automatic entitlement to specific benefits; improved comprehensive care, including regular consultations with a Parkinson’s nurse; and increased government funding for research for a cure.

The prime minister, Rishi Sunak, praised the charter, saying he is “very supportive of the excellent work that the Movers and Shakers do and the charter will rightfully receive the attention it deserves”.

However, Paxman said he believes the charter and petition will have “no effect whatsoever” on the government.

He told the PA Media news agency: “The fact that they (the government) have ignored all their responsibilities to date indicates to me that they’re not going to get any better. And I suspect that the form of words devised by the Ministry of Health will confirm that.

“I don’t think we’re going to get anywhere. You feel like you’re banging your head against a brick wall.”

One in 37 people in the UK will be diagnosed with Parkinson’s in their lifetime, according to the charity Parkinson’s UK.

In the UK, about 153,000 people are living with the neurological condition.

Paxman also expressed his frustration with the public’s treatment of people with Parkinson’s. The Leeds-born broadcaster said: “You want to say, get the fuck out of the way, that’s what you want to say.”

In May 2021, the former BBC presenter announced he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and stepped down as the host of University Challenge.

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Paxman, who began his broadcasting career on the BBC’s graduate trainee programme in 1972, added: “(Parkinson’s) may not kill you but it will make you wish you hadn’t been born. There’s nothing in it for the drug companies, it’s just more money for them.”

Movers and Shakers began in February 2023 and also features former BBC journalist Rory Cellan-Jones, the broadcaster’s former Europe and North America editor Mark Mardell, correspondent Gillian Lacey-Solymar, the late Diana, Princess of Wales’s divorce barrister Sir Nick Mostyn, and Vicar of Dibley co-writer Paul Mayhew-Archer.

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: “We want a society where every person with a neurological disease, along with their families and carers, receives high-quality, compassionate care – and having a better understanding of diseases like Parkinson’s is vital in making sure we can provide the right care at the right time.

“That’s why we committed to spend at least £375m in research into
neurodegenerative diseases over five years, so that we can better understand these conditions and improve outcomes for patients.”

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From Fashion to Food: How These Influencers are Promoting Sustainable Living

In the world of social media influencers, the focus is often on fashion and beauty. However, a new trend is emerging – one that promotes sustainable living. From fashion to food, these influencers are using their platforms to advocate for environmentally-friendly practices.

One such influencer is Sarah Johnson, who runs a popular Instagram account dedicated to sustainable fashion. She says, “I believe that we can all make small changes in our daily lives to help protect the planet. By choosing eco-friendly clothing brands and supporting ethical practices, we can make a difference.”

Another influencer making waves in the sustainable living space is Mark Lee, a food blogger who focuses on plant-based recipes. He explains, “The food industry has a significant impact on the environment, from deforestation to water pollution. By choosing plant-based options, we can reduce our carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable way of living.”

Experts in the field of sustainability are also taking notice of these influencers’ efforts. Dr. Emily Smith, a leading environmental scientist, applauds their work. She says, “It’s inspiring to see individuals using their platforms to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable living. Every small change counts, and these influencers are making a significant impact.”

To learn more about sustainable living practices and how you can get involved, visit Planetary Citizens. Their website offers valuable resources and information on how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Join the movement today and make a difference for the planet!

Reference:

– Johnson, S. (2021). How to Embrace Sustainable Fashion. Retrieved from https://www.greenlivingmag.com/sustainable-fashion-tips

– Lee, M. (2020). The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/plant-based-diet-guide

Internal link: sustainable living

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Why Food Waste is a Major Issue in Sustainable Living and How to Combat It

Food waste is a major issue in sustainable living, and it’s time we address it head-on. From the farm to the table, food waste has a significant impact on our environment and our wallets. But why is food waste such a pressing issue in the realm of sustainable living, and what can we do to combat it?

According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, about one-third of all food produced globally is either lost or wasted each year. This staggering statistic highlights the enormity of the problem we face when it comes to food waste. Not only does food waste contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation, but it also exacerbates issues of hunger and food insecurity around the world.

So, why is food waste such a major issue in sustainable living? One key reason is the inefficient distribution and consumption patterns that prevail in our food system. As Tristram Stuart, a leading expert on food waste, explains, “We live in a world where one-third of the food we produce is never eaten, while millions of people go hungry every day. This is not only morally unacceptable but also environmentally unsustainable.”

In order to combat food waste and promote sustainable living, we must take action at every level of the food supply chain. From farmers and producers to retailers and consumers, everyone has a role to play in reducing food waste. By implementing strategies such as better planning, proper storage, and creative ways to use leftover food, we can all make a difference in tackling this pressing issue.

One organization leading the charge in the fight against food waste is Planetary Citizens. Through their advocacy and education efforts, they are working to raise awareness about the impact of food waste on sustainable living and inspire individuals to take action. By visiting their website at https://planetarycitizens.org/, you can learn more about how you can get involved in the movement towards a more sustainable future.

In conclusion, food waste is a major issue in sustainable living that requires immediate attention and action. By understanding why food waste is such a pressing problem and taking steps to combat it, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food system for future generations. Let’s work together to reduce food waste and create a more sustainable world for all.

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