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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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.

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.

To Vote Early, Start Here

June 13, 2022 How-ToUnited States

Your state probably allows early in-person or absentee voting. What are you waiting for?

How to Vote by Mail or with an Absentee Ballot

June 7, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall, Stephanie Valera

Here’s everything you need to know to securely vote from home, from registering to tracking your ballot’s delivery status.

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 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.

Climate Action Starts in Your Own Hometown

April 15, 2021 How-ToUnited StatesJenny Shalant

Turn your city into a climate sanctuary, lobby your elected officials, and try out these other ways to make change globally by acting locally.

How—and Where—to Speak Out for Climate Action

March 31, 2021 How-ToUnited StatesJenny Shalant

By taking a stand at town halls and in public hearings and by submitting public comments, you can play a part in the policy-making process.

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.