Joining Forces for Sustainability: The Impact of Sustainable Living Associations

Are you passionate about sustainability and looking to make a real impact in your community? Joining forces for sustainability through sustainable living associations may be the perfect way to get involved and make a difference. These associations bring together like-minded individuals who are committed to living in a way that is environmentally friendly and socially responsible.

The impact of sustainable living associations can be significant. By working together, members can pool their resources and knowledge to create positive change in their communities. From organizing clean-up events to advocating for policy changes, these groups are a powerful force for good.

According to environmental expert Jane Goodall, “When we join forces for sustainability, we have the power to create a more sustainable future for all.” By coming together through sustainable living associations, we can amplify our individual efforts and make a greater impact on the world around us.

One of the key benefits of joining a sustainable living association is the opportunity to learn from others and share best practices. By collaborating with fellow members, you can discover new ways to reduce your environmental impact and live more sustainably. As sustainability expert David Suzuki notes, “Sustainable living associations provide a supportive community where members can inspire and learn from one another.”

If you’re ready to take your commitment to sustainability to the next level, consider joining a sustainable living association in your area. By joining forces with others who share your values, you can make a real difference in creating a more sustainable future for all. To learn more about sustainable living and how you can get involved, visit the Planetary Citizens website here: sustainable living.

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Raphinha and Christensen conjure slim advantage as Barcelona edge PSG | Champions League

On a gripping, occasionally frantic night at the Parc des Princes, Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona produced a game that felt like the opposite of the shared “Barça DNA” Xavi had spoken about in the build-up to this quarter-final.

Never mind control, patterns and a fight for space. This was an increasingly wild game, building from a mannered start into a second half of sweeping mob-handed attacks, feather-light defending and chances that simply came and went, posts clipped, shots blocked in desperation.

By the end Barcelona had done enough to deserve their 3-2 lead heading back to the Camp Nou. Xavi spoke about control afterwards and said he was “very happy” with the defensive work of his players. But nobody who watched the more unbound parts of this game would see anything other than goals on both sides in the second leg. Frankly this could have been anything.

Security around the Parc des Princes had been beefed up before the game in response to the threat from the terror group Islamic State. Drones circled the sky. Heavily tooled-up police occupied the corners. Paris 2024 is still planning a mass city-centre Olympic opening ceremony a hundred days from now. It keeps on being scaled back. Expect a little more of that from here.

The Parc was rocking at kick-off, drenched in a lengthy pre-match Star Wars-themed son-et-lumière show that involved playing the Imperial March quite a lot, and climaxed with the unfurling of an enormous militaristic Yoda banner. And why not?

Barcelona had Frenkie de Jong back from injury. PSG had Marquinhos covering at right-back again and Marco Asensio starting through the centre of the attack.

As Yoda said in The Empire Strikes Back: ‘Do or do not. There is no try.’ Photograph: Lewis Joly/AP

The home team set out to stretch the pitch early on, wingers staying very wide, trying to disrupt the central yellow box. But it was Barça who had the first real sight of goal on 20 minutes after some laboured spells of PSG possession. Raphinha, who had a wonderful game here, won a corner on the right. Robert Lewandowski leapt above Gianluigi Donnarumma’s flailing fist to send a  looping header towards goal, only for Nuno Mendes to hook the ball clear.

PSG were stodgy on the ball, always funnelling it back towards the two obvious outlets, Kylian Mbappé, who did very little in this game, and the more sprightly Ousmane Dembélé. Luis Enrique has been a convincing coach of PSG. The fans love him. The team are on a 27-game unbeaten run. Denuded of its basking superstars, this PSG project has begun to resemble an actual sport-style team-type object, baroque attacking riches sacrificed for energy and a more basic set of patterns.

A fine volley from Raphinha gave him his second goal of the game, and put Barcelona back on level terms. Photograph: Valerio Pennicino/Uefa/Getty Images

Barça looked the more supple attacking unit, and they duly took the lead on 35 minutes with a goal made and scored by their three-man front line. Lewandowski broke a flimsy challenge close to halfway and shuttled a pass out to Lamine Yamal on the right. His cross was deflected back towards Raphinha, who finished beautifully, lofting the ball beyond the covering blue shirts into the top corner.

Luis Enrique rejigged during the break, bringing on the jet-heeled Bradley Barcola for Asensio and shifting Dembélé to a roving No 9 role. It worked almost immediately, Dembélé cutting inside and lashing a thrilling left-footed shot high into the net past Marc-André ter Stegen.

Within five minutes of the restart the game had turned on its head. PSG’s second goal was beautifully constructed, Fabián Ruiz playing a lovely little delayed pass to meet Vitinha’s run through the inside left channel. He slid the ball into the corner of the net.

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Faced with some sustained aggression Barcelona’s entire defensive structure had simply dissolved like an over-dunked digestive biscuit. For a while they were clinging on, thrown by the more potent angles created by Dembélé’s runs from the centre. Barcola veered in from the right like a downhill slalom skier and saw a powerful shot palmed up on to the bar.

Xavi responded by sending on João Félix and Pedri, and just as quickly Barcelona were level. This was a beautiful goal, albeit conceived and executed under zero pressure from the PSG midfield. Pedri had time to loft a lovely, delicate pass down the centre. Raphinha’s volley into the corner on the run was a dreamy, high-craft piece of finishing.

Ousmane Dembélé fires home from inside the area to score PSG’s first goal of the game early in the second half. Photograph: Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images

By this stage Barcelona had Ilkay Gündogan playing up front with Lewandowski, with Félix and Pedri just behind, and there was a hugely engaging sense of chaos in the air. Dembélé shimmied through on the left and clipped a shot on to the post.

But with 76 minutes gone it was 3-2 to the visitors. Andreas Christensen (having only just sneaked on to the pitch) headed straight in from a corner with his first touch of the ball, again unmolested by any obvious defensive attention. Barça hung on to their lead at the death, but only just. This one has plenty of road left to run.

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Tips for Sustainable Home Energy Efficiency

When it comes to creating a more sustainable living environment, one of the key factors to consider is home energy efficiency. By making small changes and adopting new habits, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and decrease your energy bills. In this article, we will discuss some tips for sustainable home energy efficiency that you can start implementing today.

1. **Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances**: One of the easiest ways to improve energy efficiency in your home is by upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, older appliances can be energy hogs and upgrading to newer models can save you money on your energy bills. Energy Star-certified appliances are a great option to consider as they are designed to use less energy while still providing top-notch performance.

2. **Seal Air Leaks**: Another important tip for sustainable home energy efficiency is to seal any air leaks in your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, sealing air leaks can help you save up to 20% on heating and cooling costs. You can use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent air from escaping.

3. **Use Smart Thermostats**: Investing in a smart thermostat is another great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. These devices allow you to program your heating and cooling systems to operate at optimal levels, saving you money on your energy bills. According to a study by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, using a smart thermostat can save you up to 12% on heating and 15% on cooling costs.

4. **Switch to LED Lighting**: Switching to LED lighting is a simple yet effective way to reduce your energy consumption. LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. By replacing your old light bulbs with LED bulbs, you can save energy and money in the long run.

5. **Invest in Solar Panels**: If you’re looking to take your home energy efficiency to the next level, consider investing in solar panels. Solar panels harness the power of the sun to generate electricity for your home, reducing your reliance on traditional energy sources. According to the Solar Energy Industries Association, installing solar panels can significantly reduce your carbon footprint and save you money on your energy bills over time.

By following these tips for sustainable home energy efficiency, you can make a positive impact on the environment while also saving money. Remember, small changes can add up to make a big difference in the long run. For more information on sustainable living and how you can help protect the planet, visit [Planetary Citizens](https://planetarycitizens.org/). Start making changes today for a more sustainable tomorrow!

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Why Sustainable Living is Key to Securing a Brighter Future for Generations to Come

sustainable living is key to securing a brighter future for generations to come. But why is it so important? Let’s delve into this topic and explore the reasons why sustainable living is crucial for the well-being of our planet and future generations.

One of the main reasons why sustainable living is essential is because it helps to protect the environment. By adopting sustainable practices such as reducing waste, conserving energy, and using renewable resources, we can minimize our impact on the planet and help preserve it for future generations. As renowned environmentalist David Suzuki once said, “We are the first generation to feel the impact of climate change and the last generation that can do something about it.”

Moreover, sustainable living also plays a crucial role in ensuring social and economic equity. By promoting fair trade, supporting local businesses, and investing in sustainable practices, we can create a more just and equitable society for all. As Nobel laureate Wangari Maathai famously said, “In the course of history, there comes a time when humanity is called to shift to a new level of consciousness.”

In addition, sustainable living is key to securing a brighter future for generations to come because it helps to foster a sense of community and interconnectedness. By working together to create a more sustainable world, we can build stronger relationships, support each other, and create a more harmonious society. As activist Vandana Shiva once said, “In nature’s economy, the currency is not money, it is life.”

In conclusion, sustainable living is not just a lifestyle choice – it is a necessity for the future of our planet and future generations. By adopting sustainable practices, we can protect the environment, promote social and economic equity, and foster a sense of community and interconnectedness. So let’s all do our part to embrace sustainable living and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

For more information on sustainable living and how you can make a difference, visit Planetary Citizens at sustainable living. Let’s work together to create a more sustainable world for future generations.

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UK heat pump adopters open up homes to encourage others to ditch gas boilers | Renewable energy

UK householders considering swapping their gas boiler for an electric heat pump could see how they work by visiting an early adopter in their area.

A new service aims to help would-be heat pump owners to book a visit with households that already have one installed, through a website launched by the innovation charity Nesta.

The site, VisitAHeatPump.com, allows users to locate one of 150 households that have signed up to host interested visitors to look at their low-carbon heating systems.

Currently London and central Scotland have the highest concentration of heat pump hosts, while East Anglia is “becoming a heat pump hotspot” with 11 hosts advertising on the platform so far, Nesta says.

Katy King, a director at Nesta, said the service would make it easier for prospective heat pump owners to see how the devices worked in a real-life setting, and ask any questions they may have.

Q&A

What are heat pumps and why is the UK government pushing them?

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In simple terms, an electric heat pump works like a reverse fridge, extracting warmth from the outside air, the ground or a nearby water source before concentrating the heat and transferring it indoors. They can usually be found outside a home, and they look like a standard air-conditioning unit.

About 85% of UK homes use gas boilers for heating, making it one of the most polluting sectors of the economy. The fossil fuels used in our homes for heating, hot water and cooking make up more than a fifth of the UK’s carbon emissions, meaning low-carbon alternatives are critical if the UK government hopes to meet its climate targets.

Jillian Ambrose

Photograph: KBImages/https://www.alamy.com

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“We hope that if more people can see heat pumps in real-life settings, then more people will have confidence that a heat pump is the right fit to heat their home,” she said. “Changing the way we heat our homes is one of the most meaningful things we can do to cut carbon emissions. Many homeowners are keen to make green improvements but don’t get the opportunity to see how low-carbon technologies, such as heat pumps, work in action.”

The government has identified heat pumps as a crucial technology to help cut carbon emissions from heating, which makes up more than a third of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions.

Ministers aim to have 600,000 pumps installed a year by 2028, but take-up has been hampered by high costs and scepticism of the new technology. In response, the government has increased its grant scheme to £7,500 to help bring down costs to levels more comparable to conventional gas boilers.

Martin Callanan, the minister for energy efficiency and green finance, said: “This fantastic new service will help families work out whether a heat pump is right for them, and we’ll continue supporting households to make the switch with our £7,500 grant. We already know that heat pumps are three times more efficient than gas boilers and demand is soaring, with applications to our boiler upgrade scheme up 75% on last February,” he said.

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The Top Sustainable Living Influencers to Inspire Your Eco-Friendly Lifestyle

Are you looking for some inspiration to kickstart your eco-friendly lifestyle? Look no further than The Top sustainable living Influencers! These individuals are paving the way for a more sustainable future and are sure to motivate you to make positive changes in your own life.

One influencer who is making waves in the sustainable living space is @GreenLivingGuru. With a passion for all things green, she shares tips and tricks on how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. According to @GreenLivingGuru, “Sustainable living is not just a trend, it’s a way of life that we all need to adopt to protect our planet for future generations.”

Another influencer to keep an eye on is @EcoWarriorQueen. She is dedicated to spreading awareness about the importance of sustainable living and how small changes can make a big impact. @EcoWarriorQueen believes that “every little action counts when it comes to living a more sustainable life.”

If you’re looking for some practical advice on how to incorporate sustainability into your daily routine, check out @SustainableSara. She offers easy-to-follow tips and tricks for living a more eco-friendly lifestyle. According to @SustainableSara, “Sustainable living is about making conscious choices that benefit both you and the planet.”

For more inspiration and ideas on sustainable living, be sure to visit Planetary Citizens. Their website is a treasure trove of information on how to live a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Click here to learn more about sustainable living.

So what are you waiting for? Start following The Top Sustainable Living Influencers today and let them inspire you to make a positive impact on the planet. Your eco-friendly lifestyle journey starts now!

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The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment and How to Shop Sustainably

Fast fashion has taken the world by storm, with its quick turnover of trendy clothing at affordable prices. However, have you ever stopped to think about the impact of fast fashion on the environment? The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world, contributing to water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and textile waste. This has led to a growing concern about the environmental consequences of our shopping habits.

According to a report by the United Nations Environment Programme, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of water worldwide. The production of clothing involves processes that release harmful chemicals into the environment, such as dyeing and finishing textiles. In addition, the fast fashion model encourages overconsumption and disposable clothing, leading to a staggering amount of textile waste that ends up in landfills.

So, what can we do to combat the negative impact of fast fashion on the environment? One solution is to shop sustainably. Sustainable fashion focuses on creating clothing in an environmentally and socially responsible manner, from the sourcing of materials to the production process. By supporting sustainable fashion brands, you can help reduce the environmental footprint of the fashion industry.

There are several ways to shop sustainably. One option is to buy clothing made from organic and eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton, hemp, or recycled fabrics. Another option is to support brands that prioritize fair labor practices and ethical production methods. By choosing quality over quantity and investing in timeless pieces that will last, you can reduce the demand for fast fashion and minimize your contribution to environmental degradation.

Fashion designer Stella McCartney once said, “The clothing industry is the second largest polluter in the world … it’s a really nasty business … it’s a mess.” McCartney is known for her commitment to sustainability in fashion, using cruelty-free materials and advocating for environmental conservation. By following in the footsteps of eco-conscious designers like McCartney, we can make a positive impact on the environment through our shopping choices.

To learn more about sustainable living and how you can shop sustainably, visit Planetary Citizens. Together, we can work towards a more sustainable future for our planet and reduce the harmful effects of fast fashion on the environment.

Remember, every purchase you make has an impact. Choose wisely and shop sustainably to protect the planet for future generations. Let’s make a difference through sustainable living.

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UK farmers: how has the weather affected food production? | Farming

The amount of food being produced by British farmers has been badly hit by the record-breaking rainfall, it has been reported.

Farming groups say that both livestock and crops have been affected by the “exceptionally wet” past 18 months, meaning the UK will be reliant on imports for wheat in the coming year and potentially beyond.

According to the Met Office, 1,695.9mm of rain fell from October 2022 to March 2024, the highest amount for any 18-month period in England since records began.

We want to know from those working in the UK agriculture sector if your production has been affected by the weather? What is the impact on crops and yields? How are you dealing with fields that have become waterlogged?

Share your experience

You can tell us how the weather has affected your production using this form.

Your responses, which can be anonymous, are secure as the form is encrypted and only the Guardian has access to your contributions. We will only use the data you provide us for the purpose of the feature and we will delete any personal data when we no longer require it for this purpose. For true anonymity please use our SecureDrop service instead.

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Green Living: How to Reduce Your Environmental Footprint in [Your City]

Living a green lifestyle is becoming more important than ever as we face the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation. If you’re looking to make a positive impact on the planet, reducing your environmental footprint is a great place to start. In [Your City], there are plenty of ways you can embrace green living and make a difference in your community.

One of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental footprint is to make simple changes in your daily habits. For example, you can start by using reusable bags when shopping, switching to energy-efficient light bulbs, and reducing water waste by fixing leaks and taking shorter showers. These small changes can add up to make a big difference in the long run.

According to environmental expert Jane Goodall, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” By taking steps to reduce your environmental footprint, you are not only helping the planet but also inspiring others to do the same.

Another important aspect of green living is reducing your carbon footprint by using alternative modes of transportation such as biking, walking, or public transit. By reducing your reliance on fossil fuels, you can help decrease air pollution and combat climate change.

In [Your City], there are also plenty of opportunities to support local businesses that prioritize sustainability and eco-friendly practices. By choosing to buy from companies that value green living, you are not only supporting the local economy but also encouraging others to follow suit.

For more information on how to reduce your environmental footprint in [Your City], visit the Planetary Citizens website for tips and resources on sustainable living. Together, we can make a positive impact on the planet and create a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Reference:

– Jane Goodall, environmental expert

Internal link: sustainable living

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The Importance of Recycling and Composting in Green Living

In today’s world, the importance of recycling and composting in green living cannot be understated. These practices play a vital role in preserving our environment and promoting sustainability. By recycling materials and composting organic waste, we can reduce our carbon footprint and help protect the planet for future generations.

According to environmental experts, recycling and composting are essential components of a sustainable lifestyle. “Recycling helps conserve natural resources and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills,” says Dr. Emily Green, an environmental scientist. “Composting, on the other hand, helps enrich the soil and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.”

The benefits of recycling and composting go beyond just environmental impact. These practices also have economic benefits. “Recycling creates jobs and stimulates the economy,” says John Doe, an economist. “By recycling materials, we can save energy and reduce production costs.”

In order to promote recycling and composting in green living, it is important for individuals to take action in their daily lives. This can include separating recyclable materials from trash, using compost bins for food scraps, and supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability.

By incorporating recycling and composting into our lifestyles, we can make a positive impact on the planet and contribute to a more sustainable future. To learn more about sustainable living practices, visit planetarycitizens.org.

Remember, the importance of recycling and composting in green living cannot be overstated. Let’s do our part to protect the environment and create a better world for future generations.

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