Is Soy Production a More Sustainable Energy Source Than Beef Production?

A digital illustration comparing soy and beef production as energy sources, featuring a cow, soybeans, and industrial elements.

As an agricultural sustainability researcher who’s spent the last decade studying both soy and beef production systems, I’ve seen firsthand how complex this comparison really is. Last year, I visited farms across Brazil and the American Midwest to understand these systems better, and what I found might surprise you. The Energy Equation: Breaking Down the … Read more

Why Is Open Pit Mining So Devastating to the Environment?

Walking along the edge of the Bingham Canyon Mine in Utah last summer, I couldn’t help but feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of human intervention in the natural landscape. The mine, visible from space, serves as a stark reminder of how open pit mining literally moves mountains in our quest for minerals. After spending … Read more

Is Dawn Dish Soap Eco-Friendly?

As someone who’s spent years researching household products and their environmental impact, I’ve noticed how Dawn dish soap has become a staple in American households. But with growing environmental consciousness, many of us are questioning whether our trusted blue bottle is truly eco-friendly. Let’s dive deep into what makes Dawn tick – and what might … Read more

How Can Human Intervention Negatively Affect the Environment?

Picture this: You’re walking through a forest that stood tall for centuries, only to find it replaced by a sprawling shopping mall the next year. As someone who grew up near the rapidly developing suburbs of Seattle, I’ve witnessed firsthand how human activities can transform landscapes overnight. While progress is inevitable, understanding our environmental impact … Read more

Is Aluminum Good for the Environment?

Picture this: You’re standing in your kitchen, holding an aluminum can. Maybe it’s your morning energy drink or that sparkling water you love. Ever wondered about the environmental journey of that simple can in your hand? As someone who’s spent years researching sustainable materials, I can tell you that aluminum’s environmental story is anything but … Read more