Eco Friendly - Blog Posts

This, is perfect idea of the future! A world that a cross between Solarpunk & Cyberprep. Where rual america is thriving, plants are as common as people, the farm land is diverse in GMO crops, & the the land shelters local wildlife. I know, it's a bit of a stretch. But, when it comes to the future of Humankind, I'm a major optmist!

I fact this is what my home town dimension I am from!

Single Wall - Home Bar

Mid-sized mid-century modern single-wall, light wood floor, flat-panel cabinets, quartzite countertops, gray backsplash, and stone tile backsplash home bar design.

Transitional Closet - Walk-In Large transitional walk-in closet idea with recessed-panel cabinets and gray cabinets, with a brown floor and a dark wood floor.

Contemporary Patio (Los Angeles)

Brick - Traditional Exterior Large traditional brown two-story brick exterior home idea

Deck - Contemporary Deck Inspiration for a large contemporary backyard deck remodel with no cover

Los Angeles Uncovered An illustration of a sizable, bare-bones rooftop deck with no covering

Luxury Meets Sustainability: AHS Group’s Green Commitment

Absolute Hotel Services Group pledges Green Globe™ certification for all properties by 2025, redefining eco-luxury and sustainable hospitality. Continue reading Luxury Meets Sustainability: AHS Group’s Green Commitment

Luxury Meets Sustainability: AHS Group’s Green Commitment

Top Eco-Friendly Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List

Traveling sustainably doesn’t mean compromising on breathtaking experiences. Around the world, stunning destinations are leading the charge in eco-tourism, offering travelers opportunities to explore responsibly while supporting conservation and local communities. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply looking for guilt-free luxury, these eco-friendly spots deserve a spot on your bucket list.

1. Costa Rica: A Pioneer in Eco-Tourism

Costa Rica has long been a leader in sustainable tourism, protecting over 25% of its land as national parks and reserves. Known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife, it’s the perfect place for adventure and relaxation. Visit eco-lodges, join guided wildlife tours, and zipline through the treetops, all while supporting conservation efforts.

2. Bhutan: The Carbon-Negative Kingdom

Bhutan is the only carbon-negative country in the world, prioritizing environmental protection and sustainable development. The country’s strict tourism policy focuses on low-impact, high-value travel. Visitors can explore breathtaking Himalayan landscapes, vibrant monasteries, and rich traditions while contributing to Bhutan’s commitment to preserving its pristine environment.

3. Finland: Europe’s Greenest Destination

Ranked one of the most sustainable destinations in the world, Finland offers eco-conscious travelers pristine lakes, dense forests, and clean air. Opt for a stay in eco-cabins, immerse yourself in the country’s sauna culture, or visit Lapland to witness the magic of the Northern Lights. Finland’s focus on renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure makes it a green traveler’s paradise.

4. New Zealand: Land of Adventure and Conservation

With its breathtaking fjords, mountains, and unique biodiversity, New Zealand is a dream destination for nature lovers. The country is committed to preserving its landscapes and wildlife, offering eco-tourism activities like guided nature walks, whale watching, and stays in eco-friendly accommodations.

5. Kenya: Safaris with a Purpose

Kenya offers unforgettable wildlife experiences while championing conservation. Many safari lodges operate with sustainability at their core, working to protect endangered species and support local communities. From the Maasai Mara to Amboseli, you can experience the beauty of Africa while ensuring your visit contributes to its future.

6. Slovenia: A Hidden Green Gem

This small European country is making big waves in sustainable tourism. With its abundance of green spaces, eco-certified accommodations, and locally sourced cuisine, Slovenia offers a perfect blend of adventure and sustainability. Visit Lake Bled, hike in Triglav National Park, or explore Ljubljana, one of Europe’s greenest capitals.

7. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador: A Haven for Biodiversity

The Galápagos Islands are a treasure trove of unique wildlife and landscapes. Strict visitor regulations ensure that tourism here remains eco-friendly and doesn’t harm the fragile ecosystem. Snorkeling, kayaking, and guided tours let you witness the islands’ wonders while supporting preservation efforts.

8. Iceland: Where Nature Takes the Lead

Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, from glaciers to geysers, are matched by its commitment to sustainability. Nearly 100% of the country’s energy comes from renewable sources. Visitors can explore geothermal spas, hike on volcanic trails, or watch puffins in their natural habitat, all while supporting Iceland’s eco-friendly initiatives.

9. The Azores, Portugal: An Atlantic Eco-Paradise

This archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean is a haven for sustainable travelers. Known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and vibrant marine life, the Azores offer eco-conscious accommodations and activities like whale watching, hiking, and geothermal bathing.

10. Palau: A Tiny Nation with Big Goals

This Pacific Island nation is a model for marine conservation. Palau has created the world’s first shark sanctuary and enforces strict eco-tourism policies to protect its coral reefs and marine life. Snorkel in crystal-clear waters, explore WWII relics, or relax on pristine beaches while contributing to a sustainable future.

Why Choose Eco-Friendly Destinations?

Traveling to eco-friendly destinations not only allows you to explore the beauty of our planet but also ensures your adventures have a positive impact. These destinations prioritize the environment, support local communities, and offer experiences that are both memorable and meaningful.

Green Packing Tips: How to Travel Light and Eco-Conscious

Packing for a trip can be exciting yet overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to balance convenience with sustainability. The good news? Green packing doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or style. By making thoughtful choices, you can reduce your environmental footprint and travel more mindfully. Here's how to pack light and eco-friendly for your next adventure.

1. Start with a Sustainable Suitcase

Your packing journey begins with the right luggage. Opt for durable suitcases or backpacks made from recycled or sustainable materials. Brands like Samsonite and Patagonia offer eco-friendly options designed to last for years. Choosing quality luggage means less waste and fewer replacements over time.

2. Pack Reusable Travel Essentials

Single-use items create unnecessary waste. Replace them with reusable alternatives like a stainless-steel water bottle, collapsible coffee cup, bamboo cutlery, and silicone food bags. Not only do these items save space, but they also help reduce plastic waste while you’re on the go.

3. Prioritize Multipurpose Clothing

Pack versatile, lightweight clothing that you can mix and match. Opt for neutral tones and items that can be layered. Clothes made from sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, bamboo, or recycled polyester are ideal. Multipurpose clothing reduces the amount you pack and keeps your wardrobe eco-conscious.

4. Go Digital with Travel Documents

Say goodbye to printed tickets, itineraries, and maps. Use your smartphone or tablet to store all travel-related documents. Most airlines and hotels now accept digital check-ins, making it easier to go paperless and reduce waste.

5. Minimize Toiletry Waste

Replace travel-sized plastic toiletries with solid options like shampoo bars, conditioner bars, and toothpaste tablets. Store them in reusable tins or silicone containers. These products are compact, last longer, and eliminate the need for plastic packaging.

6. Pack a Travel Laundry Kit

Carrying a small travel laundry kit can help you pack less. A biodegradable laundry soap and a portable clothesline make it easy to wash and reuse clothes during your trip. This is especially helpful for longer journeys.

7. Use Packing Cubes Made from Recycled Materials

Packing cubes help you stay organized while maximizing space. Look for options made from recycled materials. They’re lightweight, durable, and make packing and unpacking a breeze.

8. Avoid Overpacking

It’s tempting to pack for every possible scenario, but overpacking leads to heavier luggage and increased fuel emissions for flights. Stick to the essentials and remember that you can usually buy or borrow items if needed.

9. Choose Eco-Friendly Accessories

Don’t forget accessories like a reusable shopping bag, travel towel, and solar-powered charger. These items are practical, lightweight, and contribute to sustainable travel practices.

10. Leave No Trace

Finally, aim to leave your destination better than you found it. Pack a small reusable bag for trash and be mindful of the environment wherever you go. Follow the principles of "leave no trace" to ensure your travels have a minimal impact on nature and local communities.

Why Green Packing Matters

Green packing is about more than just reducing waste—it’s a mindset that aligns with sustainable travel. By carefully choosing what to bring, you not only lighten your luggage but also minimize your environmental footprint. Small changes like packing reusable items or opting for sustainable fabrics make a significant difference.

10 Easy Ways to Make Your Next Trip More Sustainable

Traveling is one of life’s greatest joys, but it often comes with an environmental cost. Luckily, sustainable travel isn’t as hard or complicated as it may seem. By making a few mindful choices, you can enjoy your adventures while reducing your impact on the planet. Here are ten easy ways to make your next trip greener and more responsible.

1. Choose Eco-Friendly Accommodations

Look for hotels and resorts that prioritize sustainability. Many accommodations now have green certifications or practices, such as using renewable energy, reducing waste, or supporting local communities. Websites like Green Key or BookDifferent can help you find these eco-friendly stays.

2. Pack Light

Packing light not only makes your trip more convenient but also reduces your carbon footprint. The heavier the plane or vehicle, the more fuel it consumes. Stick to essentials, and choose reusable items like water bottles, tote bags, and travel utensils to minimize waste.

3. Travel Locally

You don’t always have to go far to have an amazing experience. Explore nearby destinations and support local tourism. This reduces the emissions associated with long-haul flights and helps boost local economies.

4. Use Public Transportation or Walk

Once you’ve arrived at your destination, ditch the rental car and opt for public transport, cycling, or walking. Not only are these options greener, but they also allow you to experience the local culture and environment more intimately.

5. Offset Your Carbon Emissions

If you must fly, consider offsetting your carbon footprint through reputable organizations like Gold Standard or Cool Effect. These initiatives support projects like reforestation and renewable energy, balancing out your travel emissions.

6. Support Local Businesses

Instead of dining at big chains or shopping at international stores, choose local restaurants, markets, and craft shops. This helps sustain the local economy and ensures your money benefits the community you’re visiting.

7. Respect Wildlife and Nature

Avoid tourist attractions that exploit animals or damage natural habitats. Choose ethical wildlife tours and respect local regulations, such as staying on designated trails or keeping a safe distance from animals.

8. Reduce Plastic Use

Plastic waste is a global issue, especially in popular tourist areas. Bring your own reusable water bottle, straws, and containers. Many airports and cities now have refill stations to encourage this practice.

9. Embrace Slow Travel

Instead of cramming as many destinations into one trip as possible, focus on exploring one location deeply. Slow travel reduces transportation emissions and allows you to form a stronger connection with the place and its people.

10. Educate Yourself and Others

Sustainability starts with awareness. Learn about the environmental and social challenges in the places you visit and share your knowledge with fellow travelers. The more people adopt eco-friendly practices, the bigger the collective impact.

Why It Matters

Sustainable travel is more than just a trend; it’s a responsibility we all share to protect the planet and its communities. Every small step counts, from packing smarter to supporting local businesses. By incorporating these tips into your next adventure, you can enjoy the beauty of the world while ensuring it remains vibrant and accessible for future generations.

Modern Dining Room in San Francisco

An illustration of a sizable, enclosed dining room with minimalist design and beige walls.

Laundry Laundry Room Houston

Dedicated laundry room - mid-sized transitional galley dark wood floor and brown floor dedicated laundry room idea with an undermount sink, recessed-panel cabinets, black cabinets, black walls, a side-by-side washer/dryer and white countertops

2019 Temperature By the Numbers

The Year

2nd Hottest

2019 was the second-hottest year since modern record keeping began. NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration work together to track temperatures around the world and study how they change from year to year. For decades, the overall global temperature has been increasing.

Over the long term, world temperatures are warming, but each individual year is affected by things like El Niño ocean patterns and specific weather events.

The global temperature is an average, so not every place on Earth had its second-warmest year. For instance, the continental U.S. had a cold October, but Alaska set records for high temperatures. The U.S. was still warmer than average over the year.

Globally, Earth’s temperature in 2019 was more than 2°F warmer than the late 19th Century.

The Record

140 years 

Since 1880, we can put together a consistent record of temperatures around the planet and see that it was much colder in the late-19th century. Before 1880, uncertainties in tracking global temperatures are larger. Temperatures have increased even faster since the 1970s, the result of increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

10 years

The last decade was the hottest decade on record.

20,000 Individual Observations

Scientists from NASA use data from more than 20,000 weather stations and Antarctic research stations, together with ship- and buoy-based observations of sea surface temperatures to track global temperatures.

The Consequences

90%

As Earth warms, polar ice is melting at an accelerated rate. The Arctic is warming even faster than the rest of the planet. This northern summer, 90% of the surface of the Greenland Ice Sheet melted.

8 inches

Melting ice raises sea levels around the world. While ice melts into the ocean, heat also causes the water to expand. Since 1880, sea levels globally have risen approximately 8 inches, although regional rates of sea level rise can be even higher.

100+ fires

As temperatures increase, fire seasons burn hotter and longer. During June and July 2019, more than 100 long-lived and intense wildfires burned north of the Arctic circle. This year also saw intense, record-setting fires in Australia.

46% increase in CO2 levels

This decades-long warming trend is the result of increasing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, released by human activities.

Make sure to follow us on Tumblr for your regular dose of space: http://nasa.tumblr.com

Ways to start becoming zero waste

1. Don’t go out and buy new products. Even though you think going out and buying a bunch of containers or food bags is a good idea. Its not. You have all this already. Start by going through what you have and how you can use it in multiple ways. Use old containers that have no lids to store things in your cupboard or fridge. Use canvas bags you have received from clothing stores for your shopping bags.  You can use a lot of what you already have, you just forgot about them.

2. Always carry a water bottle. This will stop you from buying unnecessary drinks while you’re out and producing more waste. Plus if you have a large enough bottle you can get stores to put their drinks into your bottle instead of using their own takeaway cups.

3. When you start to see your house becoming more zero waste, when you go for your next shop start by making one room in the house zero waste at a time. Maybe work on this per month. Here is a guide i found on pinterest that i think is a great idea. 

13.01.2017 I’m so proud of my little celery! She’s about a month old and grew from a stump leftover from cooking :) Let’s name her Cassia. 

low waste tips: student edition

choosing a low waste lifestyle can seem an impossible extra thing to juggle when you already have friends, assignments, exams etc. to manage. hopefully this post will inspire you to make some eco-friendly swaps and show you how easy it can be to live more mindfully

1. food shop with friends. food waste is one of the biggest ways we can create waste. shopping and cooking with friends is not only really fun but almost always works out cheaper and you’ll use up all your ingredients rather than having food left over. save leftovers for lunch the next day! 

2. go digital. if you have the option to type your notes and submit essays electornically then do so! you’ll save loads of paper. however, some people with learning difficulties find it easier to read with hard copies rather than on a laptop, and that is fine. just make sure you print double sided and recycle those print-outs after

3. ditch the car. travelling to and from uni via train is much better than using a car, if you can’t avoid the car then offer to car share. while at uni try and cycle, walk or use public transport as much as possible rather than driving (or ubering) short journeys. you’ll save money and the planet

4. second hand shopping/clothes swaps. there’s lots of pressure in student environments to wear the coolest clothes and to wear different things all the time. choose second hand rather than fast fashion.

5. sell your old clothes. selling your unused clothes on ebay or depop is a great way to earn a little extra cash. don’t let your old clothes be part of the 98% that are burned or go to landfill

6. borrow. there are always one-off events that you need a fancy dress/suit for. try and borrow or rent those items instead of buying something you’ll only wear once. 

7. choose your stationery wisely. do you really need 5 notebooks? could you use a wooden pencil instead of a plastic pen? can you find recycled paper? little choices added together make a big difference

8. choose your drinks. drinking culture is everywhere at university and what you drink and how much is a personal choice. try and opt for drinks that come in aluminium cans (beer or cider) or glass bottles (spirits or wine). mixers are hard to find without plastic

9. refuse the straw. when you’re out this is a simple way to save the environment. just say no

10. find the university’s eco societies. surrounding yourself with and learning from environmentally-minded people is a great way to make low waste living easy. they will also be able to give you university-specific advice (e.g. where to find plastic-free veg and which cafes give you a discount for bringing your own cup)

and all the usual low/zero waste bits still apply to students too:

have a look at this post for ideas for zero/low waste swaps

low waste living is great for a student budget too! have a look at this post to find out more

Journey to zero waste #23 🌱💚

A good day!! Got coffee with my bud and did a little thriftin!

-the most convenient zero waste swap is a mason jar! Mason jars are perfect for storing things, used for take out, bulk shopping, and my favorite iced coffee

-did a little thrifting! It can be super tempting at times to but from fast fashion stores but a little thrifting and you can find just what you’re looking for and so much cheaper! I wanted woven sandals and if I had bought the ones I wanted they would have been $120 but I got these for $2.99!!!

-also working a lot harder to buy things from thrift stores I’ve either really been wanting if am most definitely going to wear! Just because it’s from a thrift store doesn’t mean you need to buy it!

“we’re ruining the planet” i’m sorry who is this we i don’t recall myself running a billion dollar oil business

When people say that major corporations and industries are responsible for global warming and that we can do very little to make a difference, I totally agree with/understand/ respect that.

But like, that’s not where it ends?

We need to realise that our money and the choices we make in everyday life have massive effects on how industries are run.

Using paper straws wont do shit in the grand scheme of things, but when you go to your local shop and look at the straws on offer, what do you now see?

Less plastic and more paper, because they know that’s what we want and what we will buy.

In the long run, stuff like that does make a difference.

It’s the same with veganism, we see more vegan food/places because demand has been created. Money will be made here, less land is used, no animals die, less waste and less pollution.

And it’s not out of the kindness of some CEOs heart, it because they want you to buy THEIR tofu and not someone else’s.

If we have this “it won’t make a difference” attitude then nothing will ever change.

We have power over companies and we should use it.

So use that paper straw, get the reusable bag, eat less meat, do whatever you want to do to have a positive impact in the world and don’t ever feel like you’re not making a difference because you are

Journey to zero waste #22 🌱💚

-homegrown blueberries!! They tasted so good and we were so excited to pick them (hence my little sisters thumbs up). Our garden is coming along too with peppers, cabbage, beets, and just about every other vegetable we could plant. Growing our own produce makes me so happy it’s so gratifying

-low waste farmers market meal 🌻 made this meal as low waste as possible using pretty much everything from the farmers market except some vegan cheese which I will make myself once I finish up what we have!

If every working-class person in the world decided this afternoon to install solar panels on their roofs and started biking instead of driving, the ice caps would still melt and the human race would still die off. It simply isn’t possible to end climate change while working within a system that sends all your products overseas in massive supertankers wrapped in unrecycled plastic that will be thrown in a landfill the moment it hits land - and practices like that aren’t going to go away because of your purchasing habits.

Nor are we gonna hit some magical point where using clean energy and reducing waste are suddenly the cheapest or most profitable option and so all the world’s big companies fall over each other to switch over. That has never been the case and never will be - the “free market” isn’t going to save us.

The fact of the matter is, this system needs to be torn down if our species is to survive. We don’t have time to delay the revolution anymore. Capitalism is extinction. 

Homemade vegan pesto pizza don’t mind if I do 😍😍😍

Simple guide on how to create less waste

2025 corporate pride month: exxonmobil posts this pic and says oil is pro LGBT

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. 

The three R’s rule includes small changes in daily lifestyle that are really important in saving our mother Earth. It’s worth taking into consideration to reduce your carbon footprint. ⋆

Firstly, a lot of people consider recycling to be problematic and even unnecessary. But recycling is an effect of high level waste which causes serious environment pollution. The most publicized of them are soil pollutions and plastic soup. So if you aren’t a fan of recycling try to produce less garbage, but still it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t recycle your waste. ⋆ There are also a lot of things that are especially difficult to recycle such as styrofoam, silica gel, plastic bottle caps, paper plates, napkins and coffee cups, plastic bags, bubble wrap, jiffy bags, shredded and richy colored paper, toothpaste tubes and toothbrushes,  clingfil, pill packets, disposable razors, fruit netting, tires, electronics… and a lot of more stuff. ⋆

In solution try using material bags for shopping, cloth napkins, material towel instead of paper ones, bamboo toothbrushes, soaps, safety razors with replaceable razors, you can also try to make your own cosmetics and cloth pads etc., reusable is the keyword! You can save the planet and your own money at the same time, isn’t it worth it? ⋆

While on the subject, ask yourself if you need all those things in your house. If so, keep it, use it and use it up, try making something new out of it instead of buying new items, borrow it to your friends or relatives if you can and if it’s broken try to fix it. But if there are things that you don’t use (I’m sure there are) try selling it. I’m selling a lot of things online in low prices so I have more space and money and the items aren’t wasting but also exchanging things with someone is a good idea ⋆ 

Okay it’s all for today, gree(n)tings  ⋆

I’m really scared for my future. I feel like I’m gonna die way too young on this burning planet because 50 yo politicians don’t gaf about the environment.