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 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.

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 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.

Colony Collapse Disorder: Why Are Bees Dying?

April 29, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesAlexandra Zissu

Bees keep dying at record rates, putting our food supply at serious risk. Here’s how you can help take the sting out.

So You Want to Be a Beekeeper...Or Just Be There for the Bees

May 20, 2021 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Grow a pollinator garden, help your hive thrive and, if you’re lucky, land yourself some honey with these tips.

How to Find Joy in Nature When You Need It Most

July 29, 2020 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

These six tips will help you fend off feelings of isolation by finding safe ways to play, explore, and connect with the wild world outside.

How to Find Relief During Summer Heat Waves in the City

July 13, 2020 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Extreme heat is already a public health threat—now, COVID-19 may make that impact worse. Here are some quick tips and long-term strategies to help keep you and your neighbors cool.

24 Green Projects to Tackle Now

April 27, 2020 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Commune with nature, get productive in the kitchen, occupy cooped-up kids, or connect with other environmentalists—all while staying home.

How to Turn Your Patch of Earth From Barren to Bountiful

May 28, 2019 How-ToUnited States, CaliforniaCourtney Lindwall

For a healthier backyard garden, you need to invite nature in. Try a few strategies featured in the documentary "The Biggest Little Farm."

How to Protect Your Property—and Our Planet—from Harmful Wildfire

September 25, 2018 How-ToUnited States, WestJillian Mackenzie

Fire-wise tips for your home, your garden beds, the fence line, and that marshmallow roast you’re planning.

The Hiker’s Guide to Leaving No Trace . . . and in One Piece

June 26, 2018 How-ToUnited StatesJillian Mackenzie

How to be responsible, pee responsibly, and handle animal encounters when you’re out in the wild, communing with nature.

Go Green in Margaritaville: Eco-Friendly Beach Vacation Tips

March 28, 2017 How-ToUnited States, InternationalMelissa Denchak

Make long-lasting memories but a minimal environmental impact during your spring break getaway.

7 Ways to Flood-Proof Your House

September 28, 2016 How-ToUnited States, Texas, South Carolina, West VirginiaMary Talbot

As floods become more frequent and severe with climate change, protecting your home becomes even more crucial. Here’s how to assess your risk—and make sure you’re prepared for the worst.

How to Buy Good Wood

March 15, 2016 How-ToUnited StatesAmanda MacMillan

Your guide to purchasing sustainably sourced lumber and furniture.

9 Places to See Before They're Gone

January 17, 2016 How-ToUnited States, Montana, Hawaii, Florida, Maryland, Virginia, Massachusetts, Alaska, Louisiana, Nevada, ArizonaStarre Vartan

Due to climate change, these iconic American vacation spots will soon become unrecognizable—or worse, vanish. Pack your bags, quick!

9 Tricks That Save Tons of Water

January 5, 2016 How-ToUnited States

So you’ve stopped doing half loads of laundry and running the faucet when you brush your teeth. Great! Did you know about all these other ways you can avoid wasting hundreds of gallons of water a day?