Articles Written by Julie Hancher

Your old refrigerator or freezer can use as much as four times the energy as newer models, adding up to $150/year on your electricity bill. Looking to upgrade and to get rid of an old, working freezer or fridge? How...

The Streets Department’s 2019 Philly Leaf Recycling Program begins on Tuesday, November 12 and runs through Saturday, December 21.  Here’s the deal to compost those leaves THE RIGHT WAY: USE BROWN BAGS. Bagged leaves will only be accepted in biodegradable paper bags.  These bags can be processed for...

Scientists warn of “untold suffering” 11,000 scientists from 153 countries declared a climate emergency if we don’t make changes to how we live in a BioScience paper. According to the paper, “Scientists have a moral obligation to clearly warn humanity of...

An estimated 1.3 billion pounds of pumpkins are trashed each year instead of being eaten or composted. That’s REAL spooky news. The bottom line: After you’ve carved those pumpkins, don’t trash them! How to Make the Most out of Your...

How the legendary local activist joined the actress in DC For many, getting arrested is something to avoid. But for local entrepreneur and founder of many things sustainable Judy Wicks, it’s joyful in its own kind of way. “It’s kind...

Green Building United Released its 2nd annual 2030 District Report; exceeding previous targets. Philadelphia has a goal to reduce citywide carbon emissions by 80% by 2050 to slow the effects of climate change. Results are showing that they’re more than...

There’s still one more step before the ban becomes law. Yesterday, Philadelphia City Council voted to ban plastic bags during a Licenses and Inspections hearing. The original bill had a ban on plastic and 15 cents for all other bags....

Plant nerds rejoice for swapping opportunities Did you know having plants in your office not only filter the air but can increase happiness and productivity? I’ve had my fair share of houseplants that I’ve had for years (like my baby bonsai and...

Close your eyes (after you read the next sentence.) Now, picture someone holding a reusable bag. What stereotypes come to mind? There’s a good chance that you’re picturing a white, middle class, ‘green’ consumer. Trash Academy, a project of Mural...