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 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 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.

Fighting Phthalates

April 20, 2022 How-ToUnited StatesShelia Hu, Olivia Koski

These harmful chemicals are lurking in countless products, but companies don’t have to tell us which ones. Follow these tips to reduce your exposure.

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.

How to Combat Weeds . . . Gently

June 25, 2019 How-ToUnited StatesJillian Mackenzie

Natural solutions like mulch, cover crops, vinegar, and a little elbow grease will help keep the chemicals out of your garden—and your body.

Green Your Halloween

October 9, 2018 How-ToUnited StatesClara Chaisson

Five ways to indulge your sweet tooth and your spooky side without a whole lot of waste or frightful chemicals.

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.

Green Your School

August 28, 2018 How-ToUnited StatesCorey Binns

Eight ways to help your district’s students and parents be better environmental citizens.

Stocking a Kid-Friendly, Nontoxic Kitchen

January 2, 2018 How-ToMolly M. Ginty

Avoid harmful pesticides, preservatives, and other unhealthy additives—especially when you’re feeding growing bodies.

Climate Change Is In the Air

July 11, 2017 How-ToUnited States, JacksonMolly M. Ginty

As rising carbon emissions boost smog and pollen production, even breathing can be a challenge. Here’s what you can do to help clear the air.

Get the Dirt on Nontoxic Spring Cleaning

March 9, 2017 How-ToUnited StatesClara Chaisson

Your vacuum and a damp rag can get you pretty far. All those bottles under the sink are another story.

How to Be an Eco-Friendly Pet Owner

November 28, 2016 How-ToUnited StatesLiz Krieger

Caring for your pet while caring for the planet is about more than buying recycled toys and organic dog food.

Building a Healthy Home

November 22, 2016 How-ToUnited StatesMelissa Denchak

Questionable chemicals lurk in many common home-renovation materials. But safer alternatives do exist.

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.