Practical Ways You Can Spark Change

Learn how to become a savvier consumer and an effective environmental and public health advocate with these toolkits and how-tos.

A construction crew working around a ditch dug during replacement of a lead service line outside a Chicago home

How to Find Out If Your Home Has Lead Service Lines

October 23, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

A step-by-step guide to help you check for lead pipes—and the questions to ask of your local water utility.

Gabrielle Habeeb speaking at a public hearing in Chicago, Illinois

How to Make an Effective Public Comment

September 21, 2023 ToolkitUnited StatesJenny Shalant

Whether you’re ready to submit a written comment or state your case at a hearing, these talking points, scripting guidelines, and other tips will help you make the most of your airtime.

The Best and Worst Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and Facial Tissue Brands

September 19, 2023 How-ToUnited States, CanadaCourtney Lindwall

Tissue paper production is taking a devastating toll on forests. NRDC’s newest Issue with Tissue report can help you find earth-friendly brands.

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The Smart Seafood and Sustainable Fish Buying Guide

January 22, 2024 How-ToUnited States, InternationalNicole Greenfield

Five ways to keep the environment in mind when you shop for fish and shellfish.

How to Survive a Flood

September 13, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesShelia Hu

Be prepared for the next major storm by planning ahead and staying vigilant when floodwaters arrive.

How to Ditch the Biggest Fossil Fuel Offenders in Your Life

August 8, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Here are some high-impact ways to reduce your personal use of oil and gas and gain a little energy independence.

How You Can Stop Global Warming

August 7, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesMelissa Denchak

Healing the planet starts in your garage, in your kitchen, and at your dining room table.

A Consumer Guide to the Inflation Reduction Act

July 20, 2023 How-ToCourtney Lindwall

Here’s how to save on electric vehicles, solar panels, heat pumps, and more via tax credits and rebates.

How to Become a Community Scientist

June 30, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Six steps to get you started in the world of participatory environmental research

How to Stay Safe From Wildfire Smoke

June 7, 2023 How-ToUnited States, WestAlisa Opar

Breathe more easily with these tips on choosing the right protective mask, maintaining your indoor air quality, recognizing when to avoid the outdoors, and knowing who is most at risk.

Learn to Spot Greenwashing

February 9, 2023 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

It’s tricky to separate flimsy promises from what’s actually environmentally friendly. We can help.

How to Set Up a Social Media Fundraiser

June 16, 2022 How-ToUnited States

Ask your friends on Facebook or Instagram to donate to NRDC by following these easy steps.

How to Cast Your Ballot Safely on Election Day

June 14, 2022 How-ToStephanie Valera

If you’re voting in person, go prepared, take the usual COVID-19 precautions—and have patience.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy an Electric Car?

May 12, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Electric vehicles offer plenty of benefits. Here’s how to decide if you’re ready for yours.

Protect Your Community from “Bomb Trains”

May 11, 2022 How-ToUnited States, Gibbstown, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, PhiladelphiaNicole Greenfield, Amanda MacMillan

Trains carrying highly explosive fossil fuels barrel through unsuspecting communities every day. Is yours one of them?

How to Shop for Energy-Efficient Light Bulbs

April 29, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesLauren Evans

Old incandescent bulbs can cost you more than $100 per year in wasted energy—which costs the planet as well. Do the earth a favor and invest in new, energy saving light bulbs.

How to Spot—and Help Stop—Climate Misinformation

April 26, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

The online spread of false claims about climate change is an existential threat.

5 Ways City Dwellers Can Spur Climate Action

April 7, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesDanna Walker

Because of their massive environmental footprints, urban areas can play a huge role in curbing climate change. Ask these five questions of local leaders to see if your city is up to snuff.

5 Ways to Make This Earth Day Really Count

April 5, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Organize a park cleanup, support our national parks, or join a local group of fellow environmentalists.

How to Argue with People You Know and Love—IRL

September 21, 2021 How-ToUnited StatesMarie Beecham

Disagreements these days can escalate quickly, but with the wisdom to know what to say and how to say it—and the courage to nurture meaningful dialogue—your efforts will be worthwhile. Here are a few tips.