Food and the Environment

Lawns may look pretty, and they can impress the neighbors. But are their benefits really worth their costs? They can be bad for the environment, and the pesticides sprayed on them can be bad for your health, too. Have you ever wondered what would happen if we turned all our lawns into edible gardens, filled with fruits, vegetables, and herbs?

Compost is nature’s ultimate closed-loop system, turning one generation of waste into the next generation of food. It’s good for the planet, it’s good for your conscience, and it can be a great way to replenish your soil, too! But if you don’t know what you’re doing, home composting can also turn into a great big pile of stinky mess. It can offend the neighbors, attract pests, and smell up your yard. What to do? Ask master gardener, Stacey Murphy, of course!

Pesticides are so widely used in our food system that it’s easy to assume that they must be safe. Unfortunately, that’s not always true. So what’s the truth about pesticides in food? Are any safe for you? Which ones are most dangerous to you and the environment? And what can you do to reduce your exposure?

What you store your food in matters. Most food storage containers are made of plastic. But research has suggested plastic is harmful to your health and the environment. Instead, try one of these food storage options that are healthier and more sustainable choices.

Is your cookware safe? Or is it off-gassing toxic chemicals that get into your food and body? This article examines the options out there so that you can make the best purchases for your health, the environment, and your cooking needs.

Sustainable travel is a popular buzzword in the tourism industry, but what does it actually mean? And how can you take steps to travel and eat more sustainably?

Inspired by health, ethical, and environmental concerns, more and more people are eating plant-based foods and plant-based meat alternatives. And the range of options is growing rapidly. But how do veggie burgers and fake meats stack up? We know they can be better for the environment and the animals, but what about your health? This article evaluates the pros and cons of popular plant-based meat options.

Bee populations continue to decline, threatening the global food supply. But by choosing bee-friendly plants for your garden, you can help bring back the bees and enjoy the (literal) fruits of your labor.

Having a BBQ or cookout this 4th of July or summer? Before you do, consider these tips to make your outdoor celebration healthier and more sustainable.

Farmers market veteran, or perhaps a newbie? Whatever your experience, check out our farmers market guide to get the lowdown on how to make the most of this healthy and sustainable food tradition.

Corn is one of the most widely eaten foods in the world. It’s also incredibly versatile. You’ll find it in baked goods and breads, popped as a snack, grilled on the cob, fed to cows, used to fuel cars, and as the base ingredient for a huge range of processed foods and additives. But is corn good for you? And how do you choose the healthiest corn to eat?

Pesticides on food are being monitored — but see why some pesticide risks are being missed.