Sustainable Jungle
What Is Going On At Etsy
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Activist Skincare founder Allison Callaway shows how their low-waste system works vs. traditional packaging — all while getting “help” from her four-legged assistant.
One of Sustainable Jungle’s top-rated brands, Activist fuses sustainability with science for better skincare 💚
#RefillableSkincare #SustainableBeauty #LowWasteLiving #SustainableJungle #ActivistSkincare
I’ve never officially taken the challenge before, but this year I decided to give it a go. Spoiler: it wasn’t perfect.
Living in a remote part of the U.S. comes with its own sustainability struggles (hello, online orders wrapped in plastic 👋), but I still found ways to cut down on waste, get creative, and learn a few new lessons along the way.
In this video, I’m sharing my Plastic Free July experience and my reflections on the experience.
Did you do Plastic Free July this year? How did you do? Share your wins and lessons learned in the comments!
#PlasticFreeJuly #ZeroWasteLiving #SustainableJungle #LowWasteLiving #PlasticFreeChallenge
In this video, Amber from Sustainable Jungle dives into how to enjoy hobbies without the waste. We’ll talk about why hobbies matter for your brain and wellbeing, why so many supplies end up in landfills, and most importantly, how to try new hobbies the low-waste way.
You’ll learn practical tips like:
- How to borrow, rent, or thrift gear before buying
- Creative swaps like hobby supply swaps and art reuse stores
- Low-waste and upcycled hobby ideas
- Simple ways to declutter abandoned supplies (and give them a second life)
Because the best hobby isn’t the most expensive—it’s the one you actually stick with.
What’s your favorite low-waste hobby? Share it in the comments below!
Time Stamps
00:00 - Intro – The Hobby Graveyard
01:33 - The Science: Why Hobbies Are Good for Your Brain
04:03 - The Hobby Waste Problem
06:29 - How to Try Hobbies... Low-Waste
07:51 - Start Small & Secondhand
09:50 - Rent or Swap Tools
10:54 - Host a Hobby Swap
11:05 - Choose Natural Material Hobbies
12:04 - Try Recycled & Upcycled Projects
13:14 - Minimalist Hobby Ideas
14:26 - Donate or Sell Unused Supplies
16:30 - Key Questions Before Starting a Hobby
Sustainable Jungle Membership
Become an SJ member here: members.sustainablejungle.com/become-a-member
Sources
alwaystheadventure.com/sustainability/used-gear-stores
geartrade.com/pages/sell-your-gear
mirror.co.uk/news/uk-news/adults-ditch-new-hobbies-after-13860600
wildcatchronicle.org/28694/features/hobbies
amazon.com/Lifting-Depression-Neuroscientists-Hands-Activating/dp/0465018149
psychologytoday.com/us/blog/prescriptions-for-life/201906/working-with-your-hands-does-wonders-for-your-brain
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11830576
makered.substack.com/p/the-effort-driven-rewards-circuit
ibisworld.com/united-states/industry/online-hobby-craft-supplies-sales/5104
washfm.iheart.com/featured/toby-and-chilli-mornings/content/2024-01-17-this-is-how-long-the-average-person-will-stick-with-a-hobby
directlinegroup.co.uk/en/news/brand-news/2021/p300-million-wasted-on-forgotten-subscriptions-and-abandoned-hob.html
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969722025220
#LowWasteLiving #SustainableJungle #EcoFriendlyHobbies
Since launching in 2018, Allison has built Activist Skincare by formulating each product herself, overseeing small-batch production, and prioritizing ethical sourcing and thoughtful packaging. The brand has earned our Top Rated badge for its sustainability impact and skin-loving results.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
💧 Allison’s personal journey into sustainability and skincare
🔁 How Activist Skincare’s refill system works and why it matters
🏆 What earned the brand our Top Rated status
🧪 The importance of actives and ingredient integrity
💬 Reflections on the beauty industry and being a solo founder
Members-only bonus:
In the bonus segment, Allison gets personal about the challenges of running an activist-led beauty brand, balancing motherhood with mission, and thoughts on where we're at as a society right now. She also shares honest advice for other purpose-led founders—and what she’d do differently with unlimited resources. To access this bonus content, you can sign up to become a member here: members.sustainablejungle.com/become-a-member
Key Links:
👇 Shop Activist Skincare: sustainablejungle.com/activist-skincare-rating
🔍 See the brand rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/activist-skincare
💌 Sign up to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-79
💚 Browse other rated brands: sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
How to support the podcast (thank you!):
👍 Like the video
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring brand stories
💬 Comment below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
#RefillableSkincare #CleanBeauty #SustainableSkincare #ActivistSkincare #IngredientTransparency #SustainableJungle
So whether or not you find them disturbingly cute or just plain disturbing—personally I think I fall more toward the latter end of that spectrum—let’s talk about what these weird little creatures are, why EVERYONE is talking about them, and why that’s not a good thing.
00:00 Intro
01:00 The Origins of Labubu
02:23 The Rise Of Labubu
04:54 Types of Labubu
05:58 Blind Box Culture: Why It's Unsustainable
07:51 Scarcity Panic Buying
08:44 Ugly Materials
10:15 The Social Media Spell: Do You Actually Like It?
12:40 Outro
Sources
nbcnews.com/world/china/life-size-labubu-doll-sells-170000-beijing-auction-global-frenzy-rcna212250
npr.org/2025/06/18/g-s1-72939/what-is-labubu-pop-mart-explained
today.com/shop/what-are-labubus-rcna208265
glamour.com/story/what-is-labubu-doll-and-why-is-the-internet-obsessed
nymag.com/strategist/article/labubu-explainer-2025.html
modernretail.co/marketing/the-rise-of-labubunomics-how-merchants-and-marketplaces-are-cashing-in-on-the-viral-pop-mart-toy
news8000.com/news/national-world/big-hype-tiny-plushie-visualizing-the-labubu-craze-in-5-charts/article_91296cde-6f0e-5b58-b9b8-ca1285aa28bd.html
allkpop.com/article/2025/05/blackpink-lisas-influence-fuels-explosive-demand-and-pushes-the-once-niche-labubu-plush-toy-into-pop-culture-spotlight
silive.com/entertainment/2025/06/labubu-what-is-the-new-collectible-craze-these-nyc-pop-mart-stores-sell-them.html
scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3315241/china-warns-blind-box-addiction-among-countrys-youth
fortune.com/asia/2025/06/20/labubu-pop-mart-shares-blind-box-criticism
reuters.com/article/business/china-issues-rules-on-mystery-boxes-regulates-sales-to-children-idUSL1N3870NF
newneuromarketing.com/mastering-scarcity-unveiling-the-psychology-and-impact-of-scarcity-marketing-cues-on-consumer-behavior
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S240584402500338X
https://fs.blog/mental-model-social-proof/
#CircularEconomy #ZeroWaste #PlaineProducts #RefillNotLandfill
After years of nonprofit work and a pivotal move to the Bahamas, Lindsey was inspired to tackle the plastic waste crisis head-on. What followed was the creation of a refillable personal care brand with a mission to eliminate single-use plastic. Plaine Products is now a Top Rated brand in our Brand Rating System, recognized for its leadership in sustainable packaging, ethical sourcing, and high-performing formulas.
In this episode, you’ll hear about:
👩🔬 Lindsey’s personal journey and the origin story of Plaine Products
♻️ How the refill system works and why they chose aluminum
🏆 Why Plaine Products earned our Top Rated status
💚 Real talk about sustainability milestones and industry change
🧴 Thoughts on zero-waste beauty and consumer responsibility
👇 Shop Plaine Products: sustainablejungle.com/plaine-products-brand-rating
🔍 See the brand rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/plaine-products
🌱 Register your interest to become a member: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
💌 Sign up to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-78
💚 Find other rated brands: sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
How to support the podcast (Thank You!):
👍 Like the video
🔔 Subscribe for more stories
💬 Leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you!
#ZeroWaste #SustainableBeauty #PlaineProducts #RefillableSkincare #PlasticFreeLiving #SustainableJungle
But where do you even start!?
Let's narrow down what can seem like a pretty hefty undertaking and focus on the BIG 4 in week 1. Some serious bang for buck changes here can make an enormous difference in your plastic consumption!
Stay tuned for weeks 2, 3 and 4 coming up!
Helpful links & Sources below:
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/zer...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/pla...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/pla...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sus...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/eco...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/pla...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/sus...
https://www.sustainablejungle.com/zer...
plasticfreejuly.org
https://www.plasticfreejuly.org/resou...
https://www.australianoftheyear.org.a...
https://unfoundation.org/blog/post/pr...
https://plasticfreefoundation.net/our...
• Great Pacific Garbage Patch: The Worst Oce...
👍 Like / 💬 Comment / 🔔 Subscribe for more eco-living tips!
#PlasticFreeJuly #SustainableLiving #ZeroWasteTips #EcoFriendly #SustainableJungle
Going plastic-free for a month sounds great… until you realize plastic is everywhere—in your groceries, your bathroom, even your tea bags?! In this video, I share a week-by-week guide to help you participate in Plastic Free July without losing your mind (or your snacks). Whether you're a beginner or already deep into your low-waste journey, this video will give you practical ideas, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way.
From bathroom swaps to kitchen hacks and everyday habits, we’ll cover how to make meaningful changes—no guilt trips, no perfection required.
00:00 Intro
01:06 What Is Plastic Free July?
03:48 Why Plastic Free July Matters
06:02 How to Join (Without Panicking)
07:58 Week 1: The Big Four
09:29 Week 2: Bathroom Detox
13:21 Week 3: Pantry & Kitchen Swap
16:48 Week 4: Lifestyle & Habits
18:50 Outro
💚 Sponsored by Albatross Designs
🧼 Shop their plastic-free shaving kit: https://albatrossdesigns.it/products/zero-waste-shave-kit?bg_ref=J3qG6rAuMT
🔗 Helpful links & Sources below:
sustainablejungle.com/zero-waste-online-stores
sustainablejungle.com/plastic-free-deodorant
sustainablejungle.com/plastic-free-shampoo-conditioner
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-toothpaste
sustainablejungle.com/eco-friendly-floss
sustainablejungle.com/plastic-free-food-storage
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-cotton-rounds
sustainablejungle.com/zero-waste-toilet-paper
plasticfreejuly.org
plasticfreejuly.org/resources/assets
https://www.australianoftheyear.org.au/recipients/rebecca-prince-ruiz
unfoundation.org/blog/post/protect-our-planet-from-plastic-pollution-5-things-to-know
plasticfreefoundation.net/our-impact/impact-2024/#this-year
youtube.com/watch?v=Z0zPaDdLQbQ
👍 Like / 💬 Comment / 🔔 Subscribe for more eco-living tips!
#PlasticFreeJuly #SustainableLiving #ZeroWasteTips #EcoFriendly #SustainableJungle
Amber from our team tested their Herbal Hair Mask + Firming Body Cream—and we’ve got thoughts.
💚 Read the full rating here:
sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/delicate-daisys
More rated brands:
sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
🌱 Register your interest to become a member: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
#CleanBeauty #DelicateDaisys #ProbioticSkincare #SustainableBeauty #BrandRatings #SustainableJungle
In this clip, Katie Schmidt of Passion Lilie shares how the vibrance of New Orleans and the rich traditions of India inspire her designs—and why color is more than aesthetic; it’s emotional.
🌈 Fashion that uplifts, connects, and celebrates heritage.
🎧 Listen to the full podcast: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-77
#PassionLilie #SustainableFashion #FairTradeFashion #ColorfulStyle #EthicalFashion #SlowFashion #SmallBusiness
Katie shares how her experience in costume design and a philanthropic mindset led to founding a brand that empowers Indian artisans through long-term partnerships and heritage techniques like block printing and hand woven ikat. Passion Lilie is also one of our Top Rated brands, earning praise for their fair trade commitments, consistent customer love, and small business integrity.
In this interview, we cover:
👗 Katie’s personal journey and founding story
👗 How Passion Lilie supports and uplifts artisan communities in India
👗 Why slow fashion and timeless style are core to the brand’s mission
👗 Highlights from our brand rating and what makes Passion Lilie a Top Rated brand
👗 Reflections on ethical fashion and industry change
👇 Shop Passion Lilie: sustainablejungle.com/passion-lilie-brand-rating-review
🔍 See the brand rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/passion-lilie
🌱 Register your interest to become a member: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
💌 Sign up to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-77
💚 Find other rated brands: sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Give it a thumbs up
🔔 Subscribe for more brand stories
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
#FairTradeFashion #ArtisanEmpowerment #SlowFashion #EthicalStyle #PassionLilie #SustainableJungle
🎧 Watch the full podcast interview: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-76
See our 8000Kicks Rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/8000kicks
#8000Kicks #SustainableFootwear #HempShoes #StartupStory #EcoFashion #SustainableJungle
Amber from our team tried the products herself—and in this short video, you’ll see exactly why Oway earned a top spot in our brand ratings. We'll be adding a more detailed review to our member's only area (coming soon! Register Interest here: https://forms.gle/yMSSbn34mosuLEHTA)
✨ See our full Oway rating here:
sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/oway
🛍️ Shop Oway products (affiliate link):
sustainablejungle.com/oway-rating-review
💚 Check out more of our rated brands:
sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
🔔 Subscribe for more sustainable brand reviews, zero waste tips, and conscious living inspiration.
#Oway #SustainableBeauty #SustainableJungle #CleanBeauty #ZeroWaste #EcoFriendlyHaircare #RefillableBeauty #OwayReview #BrandRating
#SustainableBuilding #Reforestation #CarbonCapture #EcoMaterials #MasayaCo #SustainableJungle #Shorts
In this episode of the Sustainable Jungle Podcast, Joy talks with Bernardo Carreira, founder and CEO of 8000Kicks—a Portuguese footwear brand that’s redefining what sustainable footwear can look like. From pioneering the use of hemp to leading a mission-driven company with ethics and family values, Bernardo shares how he’s turned a creative vision into a globally loved brand.
Bonus content: In our members-only segment, Bernardo reflects on the challenges of building 8000Kicks and navigating supply chain complexities and sustainability tradeoffs. Members Only Area Coming soon! Stay tuned or register your interest: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
Important Links:
👟 See 8000Kicks' Rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/8000kicks
👟 Visit 8000Kicks (affiliate link): sustainablejungle.com/8000kicks-brand-rating-and-review
📩 Subscribe to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-76
💚 Find other rated brands: sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Give it a thumbs up
🔔 Subscribe for more brand stories
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Obviously I’m kidding. I know I talk about fast fashion ad naseum here (for good reason) but today I want to dive into one specific aspect of it—namely how bad the clothing is for US as wearers thanks to all the toxic chemicals used in it.
00:00 Intro
01:15 Shein
04:43 Temu
05:50 AliExpress
07:41 It’s Not Just The Worst Fast Fashion Offenders Either
10:08 What Are the Health Risks, Really?
14:31 So What Can You Do?
17:21 Outro
Mentioned SJ Resources:
sustainablejungle.com/non-toxic-laundry-detergent
sustainablejungle.com/eco-friendly-fabric-softeners
sustainablejungle.com/fabric-softener-alternatives
sustainablejungle.com/sustainability-certifications
Other Sources:
cbc.ca/news/business/marketplace-fast-fashion-chemicals-1.6193385
https://www.lemonde.fr/en/economy/article/2024/05/28/seoul-government-finds-shein-products-contain-high-levels-of-toxic-chemicals_6672910_19.html
businessinsider.com/shein-temu-shoes-11-229-times-legal-limit-toxic-substances-2024-8
greenpeace.org/international/press-release/56979/taking-the-shine-off-shein-hazardous-chemicals-in-shein-products-break-eu-regulations-new-report-finds
https://www.greenpeace.de/publikationen/S04261_Konsumwende_StudieEN_Mehr%20Schein_v9.pdf
insnet.org/75-hour-weeks-for-shein-fashion-a-chinese-webshop
https://www.lemonde.fr/en/international/article/2024/08/14/shein-and-temu-products-found-to-contain-high-levels-of-toxic-chemicals_6715032_4.html
prnewswire.com/news-releases/shein-conducted-over-two-million-product-safety-tests-in-2024-reinforces-commitment-to-product-safety-and-sustainability-302365234.html
businessinsider.com/shein-temu-shoes-11-229-times-legal-limit-toxic-substances-2024-8
france24.com/en/live-news/20240814-seoul-authorities-find-toxic-substances-in-shein-and-temu-products
businessinsider.com/temu-children-clothes-contained-622-toxic-limit-seoul-2024-11
https://asianews.network/test-finds-kids-accessories-from-aliexpress-shein-to-be-tainted-with-toxic-chemicals/
https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20240828002800315
https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/business/companies/20240408/chinas-aliexpress-leather-bag-contains-cancer-causing-substances-56-times-above-permitted-levels
ajupress.com/view/20240614145858011
emsl.com/PDFDocuments/Marketing/Toxic%20Clothing.pdf
greenpeace.org/usa/hazardous-chemicals-fashion
https://echa.europa.eu/substance-information/-/substanceinfo/100.105.533
scmp.com/economy/china-economy/article/3135781/china-customs-accuses-western-clothing-brands-selling
cnn.com/2022/10/13/business/bpa-sports-bras/index.html
cnn.com/2023/05/17/business/bpa-sports-bras-leggings/index.html
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33313651
jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2769313
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8157593
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7218126
nature.com/articles/s41598-018-24505-w
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412024001910
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3747651
ntp.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/ntp/roc/content/profiles/formaldehyde.pdf
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0048969724057309
acamh.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jcpp.14072
additudemag.com/leaded-gasoline-exposure-adhd-anxiety-depression
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2917196
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10523869
businessinsider.com/forever-chemicals-pfas-drinking-water-pose-health-risks-small-amounts-2022-6
epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas
missouriindependent.com/2024/10/22/more-states-ban-pfas-or-forever-chemicals-in-more-products
saferstates.org/bill-tracker/?status=Adopted&year=2024:2024&safer_solutions=All&states=All&toxic_chemicals=PFAS
nj.gov/health/eoh/rtkweb/documents/fs/0344.pdf
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9698202
epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-09/documents/rin2070-za09_np-npes_action_plan_final_2010-08-09.pdf
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24529398
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23154064
theguardian.com/us-news/2025/apr/21/children-mattresses-toxic-chemicals-research
businessinsider.com/chart-how-long-hazardous-forever-chemicals-pfas-stay-in-blood-2023-3
scribd.com/document/687619597/ZDHC-MRSL-v3-1-Aug-2023
We’ve automated so much of daily life that not outsourcing things feels weirdly rebellious. But as we’ve leaned harder on tech, automation, and outsourcing labor, we’ve lost something vital: the ability to do things for ourselves.
And as our tools get smarter, we’re getting less capable. We’ve traded self-sufficiency for efficiency, and that’s fine to an extent... until the systems we rely on start to fail.
When the power goes out, the Wi-Fi drops, or our “smart” furnace goes on the fritz, we realize—we don’t know how anything works anymore. Knowledge has been replaced by service providers. Skill has been outsourced to apps and corporations, and self-reliance has become obsolete.
Let's talk about the costs of losing these long relied on skills.
00:00 Intro
01:45 The Age of Automation—And the Cost of Convenience
06:03 Lack of Education
07:22 Parenting
08:09 Planned Obsolescence
08:58 Anxiety/Fear
09:55 The Cultural Perspective: Losing Our Heritage
11:05 The Ethical Perspective: Resilience is Responsibility
12:26 Core Traditional Skills Everyone Should Know
12:55 Baking Bread
13:41 Cooking From Scratch
14:18 Preserving Food
14:52 Basic Sewing
15:22 Basic Home Repairs & Tool Use
16:21 Basic Car Maintenance
16:52 Fire Building & Basic Outdoor Skills
18:15 Outro
Sources
yougov.co.uk/society/articles/43386-how-confident-are-britons-kitchen
dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3831752/The-35s-t-boil-egg-change-lightbulb.html
prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-cooking-survey-shows-dinner-table-dinner-time-are-becoming-obsolete-300851396.html
nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-12-45
arabtimesonline.com/news/gen-z-struggles-in-the-kitchen-lacks-basic-cooking-skills
thetimes.com/uk/society/article/anxious-gen-z-call-in-the-experts-to-change-a-lightbulb-wfrppmqqx?region=global
nbcnews.com/business/consumer/draft-60-percent-people-can-t-change-flat-tire-most-n655501
tommyjohn.com/blogs/news/can-americans-do-basic-tasks-study
huffpost.com/entry/home-ec-classes_n_5882830
salon.com/2024/02/04/we-need-home-economics-now-more-than-ever
nytimes.com/2023/10/16/learning/should-schools-teach-students-kitchen-and-household-skills.html
dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1337595/Modern-cars-baffling-DIY-mechanic.html
In the full episode, we cover:
✔ What makes a pet product brand more sustainable
✔ The story behind The Kind Pet and acquiring Boba & Vespa
✔ The challenges of being a small brand in a space dominated by greenwashing
✔ The role of transparency, customer trust, and staying mission-aligned
Thanks for watching! 🐶🌱
#sustainablepet #circularproducts #ethicalbusiness #sustainabilitypodcast #sustainablebrands #thekindpet #bobaandvespa #sustainablejungle
Top Rated through our Brand Rating System, MasayaCo integrates reforestation, vertical supply chains, and traditional craftsmanship into every piece they create. From planting trees to making heirloom-quality furniture in Nicaragua, Aram shares how the Masaya ecosystem—including Masaya Homes and Masaya Teak—is changing the way we think about consumption, design, and impact.
🎧 In this episode:
✔ Why reforestation is central to MasayaCo’s mission
✔ How their approach to vertical integration supports sustainability
✔ Challenges and wins from building a values-led business
✔ What it means to go beyond “less harm” to do more good
🔒 Members-only bonus: Aram shares personal insights on leadership, tough trade-offs, and what it will take for consumers and businesses to move away from overconsumption. Coming soon! Stay tuned or register interest: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
🌱 See MasayaCo's Rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/masayaco
🌳 Visit MasayaCo (affiliate link): sustainablejungle.com/masayaco-brand-rating
✉️ Subscribe to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-75
💚 Find other rated brands: sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
✅ Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Give it a thumbs up
🔔 Subscribe for more brand stories
💬 Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
#sustainablefurniture #regenerativebusiness #masayaco #reforestation #sustainabilitypodcast #sustainablejungle
So let's talk about what’s trending this year, why each one is a hard pass for me, and how you can enjoy summer without destroying your wallet or the planet.
00:00 Intro
01:13 A Brand-New Swimsuit (When You Already Have One)
03:37 Fast Fashion Crochet Tops (No, Really, STOP.)
04:35 Cheap Sunglasses
05:32 Trendy Cups & Water Bottles (When You Already Own One)
07:18 Tenniscore Fashion
08:37 Accessories for Your Accessories
09:27 PVC Summer Products
10:55 Conclusion
To register your interest in our membership site (coming soon), complete this form: https://forms.gle/SSQBYBudJ6Bmqyma8
To find better brands (when you have to buy new): sustainablejungle.com/brand-directory
Sources
https://www.vogue.com.au/fashion/trends/tennis-style/image-gallery/1bba8b435514b956571805e39ecb8ad7
tiktok.com/@ciaraodohertyy/video/7486405165566774550
trashcanbright.com/guide-to-recycling-everything-you-need-to-know
So today, we’re going to talk about the elephant in the backyard and dive into why lawns are one of the most unsustainable status symbols we have.
00:00 Intro
01:45 The Origins of the Lawn Obsession
04:27 Lawns Are a Resource-Sucking Nightmare
09:28 Accelerating the Biodiversity Crisis
12:13 The Mowing Mandate Machine
13:18 Sustainable Lawn Tips
17:28 Sustainable Lawn Alternatives
19:50 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/biodiversity-loss
businessinsider.com/americas-biggest-crop-is-grass-2016-2
link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00267-004-0316-2
earthobservatory.nasa.gov/features/Lawn/lawn2.php
nationalparkobsessed.com/national-parks-by-size
yourgreenpal.com/blog/every-wonder-about-the-history-of-lawns
19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/www3/watersense/pubs/outdoor.html
epa.gov/sites/default/files/2017-02/documents/ws-ourwater-nevada-state-fact-sheet.pdf
nytimes.com/2022/05/03/climate/las-vegas-lawn-grass-ban.html
8newsnow.com/news/local-news/lake-mead-now-down-180-feet-from-its-full-pool
cbsnews.com/news/las-vegas-water-conservation-grass
epa.gov/watersense/sprinkler-spruce-up
nuscimagazine.com/the-american-lawn-is-the-grass-always-greener
usgs.gov/special-topics/water-science-school/science/pesticides-groundwater
https://ag.purdue.edu/department/foodsci/big-project/eutrophication-info.html
research.noaa.gov/nitrous-oxide-emissions-grew-40-percent-from-1980-to-2020-accelerating-climate-change
press-citizen.com/story/opinion/contributors/writers-group/2019/03/20/reconsider-lawn-maintenance-good-planet/3195901002
des.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt341/files/documents/2020-01/ard-22.pdf
www3.epa.gov/ttnchie1/conference/ei21/session10/banks.pdf
epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/yard-trimmings-material-specific-data
iea.org/reports/methane-tracker-2021/methane-and-climate-change
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006320718313636
worldwildlife.org/press-releases/69-average-decline-in-wildlife-populations-since-1970-says-new-wwf-report
audubon.org/magazine/sweeping-new-report-shows-us-birds-declining-sharply-across-range-habitats
science.org/doi/10.1126/science.aaw1313
audubon.org/magazine/north-america-has-lost-more-1-4-birds-last-50-years-new-study-says
Jennifer shares her journey from conscious consumer to purpose-driven business owner, how she’s using her platform to push for better standards in the pet industry, and what it takes to run a business rooted in circularity, transparency, and care for animals.
The Kind Pet stocks sustainable, low-waste products for dogs, cats, and other small pets, while Boba & Vespa is leading the charge in sustainable design—offering plastic-free, vet-approved pet toys made in the USA with end-of-life in mind.
In this episode, we cover:
✔ What makes a pet product brand more sustainable
✔ The story behind The Kind Pet and acquiring Boba & Vespa
✔ The challenges of being a small brand in a space dominated by greenwashing
✔ The role of transparency, customer trust, and staying mission-aligned
We also continue our new direction: telling the stories behind the brands we’ve rated using our independent brand rating system—designed to help conscious consumers make better choices.
🎧 Members-only bonus: Our extended conversation includes a more personal chat with Jennifer about the emotional and practical challenges of building a purpose-driven business. Coming soon! Stay tuned or register interest: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
🐾 See The Kind Pet Rating: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings/the-kind-pet
🐕 Visit The Kind Pet: sustainablejungle.com/the-kind-pet-brand-rating-review
✉️ Subscribe to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-74
💚 Learn more about our ratings: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings
✅ Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Like the video
📩 Share it with a friend
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💬 Leave a comment and tell us your favorite insight from the episode
Thanks for watching! 🐶🌱
#sustainablepet #circularproducts #ethicalbusiness #sustainabilitypodcast #sustainablebrands #thekindpet #bobaandvespa #sustainablejungle
Because sustainable travel is a tricky thing. On one hand, travel broadens your perspective, connects cultures, and, let’s be real, gives us some of the best food experiences of our lives. On the other hand… the environmental cost is steep.
Let's talk...
00:00 Intro
02:42 Background
03:43 Packing
07:30 South Korea
19:45 Post Trip Reflection
22:20 Souvenirs
24:05 Offsetting My Trip
25:55 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/best-carbon-offset-programs
sustainablejungle.com/minimalist-travel-wardrobe
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-travel-tips
sustainablejungle.com/zero-waste-travel
iea.org/energy-system/transport/aviation
ourworldindata.org/global-aviation-emissions
pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/acs.est.9b05608
sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/02/200212121959.htm
co2.myclimate.org/en/flight_calculators/new
theconversation.com/top-1-of-eu-households-have-carbon-footprints-22-times-larger-than-climate-targets-allow-142357
sustainablehospitalityalliance.org/our-work/climate-action
theicct.org/marine-cruising-flying-may22
circularecology.com/news/the-carbon-emissions-of-staying-in-a-hotel
https://www.seoulsolution.kr/en/envi
statista.com/topics/2529/e-commerce-in-south-korea/#topicOverview
Now if you’ve been around here for a while, you probably remember another video I did on AI some number of months back, which looks at it from an environmental and sustainability perspective—if not, definitely go check that out—because today, I want to talk a little more about the human perspective of it.
From the POV of the latest OpenAI rollout of image generation tools. You type in a prompt, and voilà—art that looks like it could be from your favorite animator or artist.
Let's talk
00:00 Intro
00:45 What Is AI Generated Imagery?
03:03 The Greater Implications
05:15 IP Rights
06:42 Miyazaki On AI Art
09:49 An Erosion of the Philosophy Of Art
11:46 Other Consequences
14:15 Use-Case Arguments For AI
14:57 What Can We Do?
19:03 Outro
youtube.com/watch?v=P8DxCcrx13c&t=50s&pp=ygUVc3VzdGFpbmFibGUganVuZ2xlIEFJ
youtube.com/watch?v=mjAWVZq6wlw
newyorker.com/culture/infinite-scroll/is-ai-art-stealing-from-artists
cnn.com/2022/10/21/tech/artists-ai-images/index.html
fandomwire.com/it-took-1-year-and-3-months-to-complete-a-4-second-animation-from-hayao-miyazakis-oscar-nominated-film
futurism.com/lawyer-studio-ghibli-legal-action-openai
financialexpress.com/trending/ghibli-style-ai-trend-fake-cease-and-desist-letter-goes-viral-amid-copyright-concerns-studio-responds/3794007
youtube.com/watch?v=mjAWVZq6wlw
csis.org/blogs/strategic-technologies-blog/ai-regulation-coming-what-likely-outcome
sanative.ai
artshield.io
More importantly, how does it contribute to sustainability, and why should you care?
Let’s talk…
00:00 Intro
01:10 What Is The Farm-To-Table Movement?
04:26 History Of Farm-To-Table
08:32 Seasonality
10:45 Community
11:13 Transparency
11:54 Food Resiliency
13:05 Why Farm-To-Table Matters For Sustainability
18:55 How To Support The Farm-To-Table Movement
25:45 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-food-systems
foodmiles.com/results.php
slowfoodusa.org/network/chapters
attra.ncat.org/publication/food-miles-background-and-marketing
foodwise.org/learn/how-far-does-your-food-travel-to-get-to-your-plate
files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1200341.pdf
businessinsider.com/how-is-chocolate-milk-made-survey-brown-cows-2017-6
forbes.com/sites/ronaldholden/2017/06/15/do-not-underestimate-the-ignorance-of-the-american-eater
ipmnewsroom.org/aging-farmers-and-fewer-farms-in-the-new-agriculture-census-should-be-a-wake-up-call-says-vilsack
nass.usda.gov/Publications/AgCensus/2022/Full_Report/Volume_1,_Chapter_1_US/usv1.pdf
lightspeedhq.com/blog/history-farm-table-movement
slowfoodusa.org
mdpi.com/2304-8158/13/6/877
nationalgeographic.com/magazine/article/fruits-and-vegetables-are-less-nutritious-than-they-used-to-be
rodaleinstitute.org/wp-content/uploads/Rodale-Institute-The-Power-of-the-Plate-The-Case-for-Regenerative-Organic-Agriculture-in-Improving-Human-Health.pdf
https://dr.lib.iastate.edu/entities/publication/51ef6421-3062-487f-af1a-29125328f7a5
iatp.org/documents/a-time-to-act-a-report-of-the-usda-national-commission-on-small-farms
In this clip we cover Sara's top tip for retail brands and we cover a lot more in the main episode!
Find it here: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-73
Other key links:
💚 Learn more about our ratings: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings
🔒 Member content coming soon – stay tuned or register expression of interest here: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
👩💼 Connect with Sara: smallmightycsr.com
✉️ Subscribe to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-73
✅ Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Like the video
📩 Share it with a friend
🔔 Subscribe for more stories from the brands driving real sustainability
💬 And leave a comment to let us know what resonated!
Thanks for watching 🌱
#sustainability #sustainablebrands #csr #ethicalbusiness #sustainablejungle #ecopodcast
Through Small Mighty CSR, Sara offers services such as sustainability strategy development, ESG maturity assessments, coaching for internal teams, and communication support to help avoid greenwashing and build trust. Sara also provides practical free resources including her Quick Start Checklist, CSR Check-up and Sustainability Strategy DIY Guide.
Sara was instrumental in supporting the development of Sustainable Jungle’s brand rating system, offering guidance and critical feedback to ensure our framework reflects the real-world performance of responsible brands.
In this episode, we cover:
✔ What truly defines a sustainable brand
✔ Why sustainability ratings matter now more than ever
✔ The role of values, transparency, and performance in ethical business
✔ How brands can take meaningful steps forward
We also introduce our updated direction: telling the stories behind the brands we’ve rated using our independent brand rating system—designed to help conscious consumers make better choices.
🎧 Members-only bonus: Our extended conversation includes a candid discussion on the emotional toll of sustainability work, eco-overwhelm, and how to stay motivated. Coming soon!
💚 Learn more about our ratings: sustainablejungle.com/brand-ratings
🔒 Member content coming soon – stay tuned or register expression of interest here: https://forms.gle/cJEE2Q1vAxW6yYpdA
👩💼 Connect with Sara: smallmightycsr.com
✉️ Subscribe to our newsletter: sustainablejungle.com/newsletter
📝 Show notes: sustainablejungle.com/podcast/episode-73
✅ Support the podcast
If you found this episode helpful, we’d be so grateful if you could:
👍 Like the video
📩 Share it with a friend
🔔 Subscribe for more stories from the brands driving real sustainability
💬 And leave a comment to let us know what resonated!
Thanks for watching 🌱
#sustainability #sustainablebrands #csr #ethicalbusiness #sustainablejungle #ecopodcast
The good news? You don’t need to be a textile expert to make your clothes last longer. With a few simple habits and repair skills, you can drastically extend your wardrobe’s lifespan, save money, and help combat the wasteful cycle of fast fashion. Let’s talk about some some practical tips to get you started.
00:00 Intro
00:00 Wear Clothes More Than Once Before Washing
00:00 Use Wash Bags for Delicates and Knits
00:00 Skip the Fabric Softener
00:00 Air Dry Your Clothes
00:00 Turn Clothes Inside Out
00:00 Store Your Clothes Properly
00:00 Avoid Dry Cleaning—Opt for Wet Cleaning Instead
00:00 Steam Iron Instead
00:00 Repair to Extend Lifespan
00:00 Use Professional Repair Services
00:00 Outro
Sources:
sustainablejungle.com/fabric-softener-alternatives
sustainablejungle.com/non-toxic-laundry-detergent
sustainablejungle.com/online-clothing-alterations
emf.thirdlight.com/file/24/Om5sTEKOmm-fEeVOm7xNOmq6S2k/Circular%20business%20models.pdf
wri.org/insights/apparel-industrys-environmental-impact-6-graphics
pebblemag.com/wet-cleaning-vs-dry-cleaning
huffpost.com/entry/washing-clothes-often-frequently-laundry_l_6418e2afe4b00c3e60757e6a
vogue.com/article/how-often-should-we-wash-our-clothes
stateofmatterapparel.com/blogs/som-blog/10-scary-statistics-about-fast-fashion-the-environment
mckinsey.com/capabilities/sustainability/our-insights/style-thats-sustainable-a-new-fast-fashion-formula
nvlpubs.nist.gov/nistpubs/SpecialPublications/NIST.SP.1500-207.pdf
ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/fashion-and-the-circular-economy-deep-dive
levistrauss.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/Full-LCA-Results-Deck-FINAL.pdf
vogue.com/article/how-often-should-we-wash-our-clothes
https://environment.upenn.edu/events-insights/news/fast-fashion
oxfam.org.uk/oxfam-in-action/oxfam-blog/new-shocking-facts-about-the-impact-of-fast-fashion-on-our-climate
levi.com/US/en_US/blog/article/the-definitive-guide-to-denim
fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-final-rule-safety-and-effectiveness-antibacterial-soaps
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24595606
aacijournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13223-019-0384-8
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0890623814001920
https://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/quats.html
ewg.org/cleaners/substances/3596-METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE
ewg.org/cleaners/substances/2376
ewg.org/cleaners/substances/152180
ewg.org/news-insights/news/2022/07/what-are-endocrine-disruptors
link.springer.com/content/pdf/10.1007/s11869-019-00699-4.pdf
healthvermont.gov/sites/default/files/documents/pdf/ENV_CDP_127_18_4_PERC.pdf
cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/00001236.htm
edu.rsc.org/download?ac=15087
nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/partner-content-laundry-lightening-the-load
reviewed.com/laundry/features/how-dryers-destroy-your-clothes
businessinsider.com/youre-making-a-big-mistake-with-your-laundry-2016-2
epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/textiles-material-specific-data
But why? Why do we keep spending, even when we know we shouldn’t? Well, it turns out, our brains are kind of wired for it. Marketers and brands understand this really well, and they’ve mastered the art of making us crave more.
So we’re going to dive into some ways you can break that cycle, and look at why we buy in the first place, because I think the key to stopping any kind of behavior is to first understand it.
0:00 Intro
01:30 The Psychology Of Consumption
01:45 Scarcity Marketing
02:38 Herd Mentality
04:31 The Persuasive Power Of Videos
06:16 Changing Attitudes On Marketing
07:23 Fast Fashion & Low Prices
08:49 Psychological Pricing
10:01 Credit Cards
13:21 How To Stop Overconsuming
13:56 Take Stock of Your Consumption
14:18 Try a “Nothing New” Challenge For A Set Period Of Time
15:14 Create a ‘Wish List’ Instead of Impulse Buying
16:28 Unsubscribe & Unfollow
16:45 Set Spending Rules
19:00 Choose New TO YOU
19:58 Find Your ‘Why’
20:12 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/online-thrift-stores
neurotrackerx.com/post/shopping-makes-feel-high
psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brain-wise/201510/shopping-dopamine-and-anticipation
capitaloneshopping.com/research/impulse-buying-statistics
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1470-6431.2011.01000.x
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S096969892300259X
influenceatwork.com/7-principles-of-persuasion
digitalmarketinginstitute.com/blog/20-influencer-marketing-statistics-that-will-surprise-you
thesocialshepherd.com/blog/influencer-marketing-statistics
influencermarketinghub.com/influencer-marketing-statistics
forbes.com/sites/kathleenchaykowski/2017/10/18/digital-video-marketing-is-a-135-billion-industry-in-the-u-s-alone-study-finds
sproutvideo.com/blog/psychology-why-video-makes-people-more-likely-buy.html
lemonlight.com/blog/60-video-marketing-stats-2018
fbj.springeropen.com/articles/10.1186/s43093-024-00370-0
digitalnewsreport.org/essays/2015/attitudes-to-advertising
iab.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/IAB_Edelman_Berland_Study.pdf
mckinsey.com/~/media/mckinsey/industries/retail/our%20insights/state%20of%20fashion/2022/the-state-of-fashion-2022.pdf
researchgate.net/publication/312011520_The_impact_of_psychological_pricing_strategy_on_consumers%27_buying_behaviour_A_qualitative_study
https://www.academia.edu/47646010/Do_Consumers_Perceive_Precise_Prices_to_be_Lower_than_Round_Prices_Evidence_from_Laboratory_and_Market_Data
researchgate.net/publication/247353219_Size_Does_Matter_The_Effects_of_Magnitude_Representation_Congruency_on_Price_Perceptions_and_Purchase_Likelihood
https://mitsloan.mit.edu/experts/how-credit-cards-activate-reward-center-our-brains-and-drive-spending
forbes.com/advisor/business/software/people-twice-likely-spend-using-card-than-cash
apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/xap143213.pdf
Let's talk
00:00 Intro
00:44 The Rise Of Second Hand
03:23 Why Is This Happening?
05:30 Who’s Driving the Secondhand Boom?
08:03 What This Means For Sustainability
10:56 How to Take Part in the Resale Revolution The Right Way
12:20 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/online-thrift-stores
sustainablejungle.com/thrift-flips
thredup.com/resale
cf-assets-tup.thredup.com/resale_report/2024/ThredUp_2024_Resale%20Report.pdf
cf-assets-tup.thredup.com/resale_report/2023/thredUP_2023_Resale%20Report.pdf
recommerce100.com
just-style.com/news/in-data-200-million-garments-given-new-life-by-thredup-since-inception
refinery29.com/en-us/2020/10/10014753/thrifting-gen-z-thrift-shopping-trend
cosresearch.wpengine.com/research/thrifting-statistics
earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste
researchgate.net/publication/340635670_The_environmental_price_of_fast_fashion
retaildive.com/news/secondhand-clothes-sustainable-environmental-impact-resale/647428
The climate crisis is bad yes, and plastic pollution no joke but there’s another interlinked and devastating crisis (for both the planet and humanity): loss of biodiversity.
Let's talk about this issue, why it doesn't get the air time it should and what can we do about it.
00:00 Intro
01:45 What Are Microplastics?
04:09 The Harm of Microplastics
07:03 What To Do About Microplastic Contamination
07:21 Cholestyramine
08:35 Spirulina and Chlorella
10:58 How To Avoid Consuming Microplastics
11:22 Stop Drinking Tea Bags
13:32 Use non-plastic cutting boards
14:30 Filter Your Water—And Don’t Drink Bottled!
15:55 Be Mindful Of Seafood Consumption
17:23 Be Cautious of Nonstick Cookware
18:01 How To Avoid Producing Microplastics (wear more natural fiber clothes and home textiles)
19:03 Use a Wash Bag
20:50 Stop using “dissolvable” plastics
22:25 Reduce Single-Use Plastics and Be Mindful of Consumption
22:57 Outtro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-dishwasher-detergent
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-laundry-detergent
sustainablejungle.com/what-is-pva
statista.com/chart/18299/how-we-eat-drink-and-breathe-microplastics
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31184127
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9920460
https://www.eea.europa.eu/publications/microplastics-from-textiles-towards-a
link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s42398-022-00219-8
fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/microbead-free-waters-act-faqs
portals.iucn.org/library/sites/library/files/documents/2017-002-En.pdf
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5664766
theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/may/20/microplastics-human-testicles-study-sperm-counts
theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/may/20/microplastics-human-testicles-study-sperm-counts
theguardian.com/environment/2020/aug/17/microplastic-particles-discovered-in-human-organs
theguardian.com/environment/article/2024/aug/21/microplastics-brain-pollution-health
theguardian.com/science/2021/sep/22/more-microplastics-in-babies-faeces-than-in-adults-study
theguardian.com/environment/2018/oct/22/microplastics-found-in-human-stools-for-the-first-time
https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/ifascomm/2021/06/30/florida-sea-grant-what-are-microplastics-infographic/
dfo-mpo.gc.ca/about-notre-sujet/publications/infographics-infographies/effects-of-microplastics-effets-des-microplastiques-eng.html
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28440941
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S004896972401101X
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9602632
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412022002008
nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2309822
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969723048830
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9134445
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21605673
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2468227619306969
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7559247
onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15533
newscientist.com/article/dn27849-plankton-snacking-on-plastic-caught-on-camera-for-the-first-time
webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-chlorophyll
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9181093
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0044848621005044
zeroxeno.com/library/activated-charcoal-removes-94-bpa-water
webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-269/activated-charcoal
pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.est.9b02540
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10389239
sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0045653524026377?via%3Dihub
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36848832
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11121293
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37220346
pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31184127
journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0194970#sec023
pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4585829
aquatechwatersystems.com/blog/the-truth-behind-ro-water-filters-and-microplastics
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0025326X20303283?casa_token=7tzs8r5apI8AAAAA:P4Ei7VFf1RXBY56wSiiOEfAqg1eFJNjsc82qSSVlROh1qyER8L51N1BB9h80Tpj9NTCdJ7F5K2ze
ehn.org/great-lakes-plastics-2654006445.html
phys.org/news/2022-10-teflon-coating-hot-microplastics-cooking.html
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S004896972205392X
bbc.com/news/science-environment-16709045
theguardian.com/science/2016/sep/27/washing-clothes-releases-water-polluting-fibres-study-finds
royalsocietypublishing.org/doi/10.1098/rsos.180667
mdpi.com/1660-4601/18/11/6027
But what impact did all that negative news and social backlash actually have on this real time fashion brand? After the damning evidence, the cancelling, the failed PR stunts, the super negative and wide scale press, are they still alive and kicking?
I’ll cover why the recycling system in the U.S. is horrifically broken, what really happens when we send materials overseas, why it’s the weakest of the 5 R’s of zero waste, and what you should actually be doing instead. Oh, and stick around because I’ll also be sharing a list of things you’ve probably been recycling that you absolutely shouldn’t be.
00:00 Intro
01:51 The Ugly Truth About Recycling
05:25 What Happens To This Stuff Instead?
06:35 Why Recycle At All?
07:30 Wishcycling & Contamination
08:45 Common Items You Shouldn’t Be Recycling
19:21 The Great Recycling Lie
21:05 What To Do Instead
24:20 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/are-paper-towels-recyclable
sustainablejungle.com/paper-plates-recyclable
sustainablejungle.com/types-of-plastic
amcsgroup.com/blogs/15-surprising-things-that-cannot-be-recycled
epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/plastics-material-specific-data
science.org/doi/full/10.1126/sciadv.1700782?platform=hootsuite
harmony1.com/the-global-face-of-recycling-infographic
education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/whopping-91-percent-plastic-isnt-recycled
epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/national-overview-facts-and-figures-materials#recycling
static1.squarespace.com/static/5eda91260bbb7e7a4bf528d8/t/62b2238152acae761414d698/1655841666913/The-Real-Truth-about-the-US-Plastic-Recycling-Rate-2021-Facts-and-Figures-_5-4-22.pdf
beyondplastics.org/publications/us-plastics-recycling-rate
science.org/doi/full/10.1126/sciadv.1700782?platform=hootsuite
epa.gov/facts-and-figures-about-materials-waste-and-recycling/aluminum-material-specific-data
aluminum.org/Recycling
epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-09/documents/2012_msw_fs.pdf
npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2019/03/13/702501726/where-will-your-plastic-trash-go-now-that-china-doesnt-want-it
lastbeachcleanup.org/plastic-waste-exports
sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0313592623000826
eco-business.com/news/if-the-philippines-banned-waste-imports-why-is-it-still-the-worlds-dumping-ground
reuters.com/article/us-malaysia-waste/malaysia-to-send-3000-tonnes-of-plastic-waste-back-to-countries-of-origin-idUSKCN1SY0M7
time.com/5598032/southeast-asia-plastic-waste-malaysia-philippines
theguardian.com/environment/2024/sep/26/recycling-rate-falls-in-uk-as-just-44-of-household-waste-is-recycled
rts.com/blog/what-is-recycling-contamination-and-how-you-can-help
recyclops.com/understanding-recycling-contamination
wm.com/us/en/recycle-right/recycling-101#myths
icma.org/blog-posts/take-residents-back-school-recycling
thetech.com/photos/9450
arrellfoodinstitute.ca/plastic-disposal-flow-charts
scjohnson.com/en/stories/sustainable-world/plastic-reuse-and-recycling/2023/july/uh-oh-that-black-plastic-in-your-recycling-bin-probably-isnt-actually-being-recycled
emterrausa.com/blogs/green-factor/are-prescription-pill-bottles-recyclable
cnn.com/2023/02/28/us/crying-indian-ad-campaign-cec/index.html
kpbs.org/news/2020/mar/30/frontline-plastic-wars
dumpsters.com/blog/us-trash-production
epa.gov/ghgemissions/understanding-global-warming-potentials
https://climate.mit.edu/ask-mit/what-makes-methane-more-potent-greenhouse-gas-carbon-dioxide
wastedive.com/news/tracking-the-future-of-us-recycling-policy-in-congress/570778
Planning a garden can feel like a daunting task, but today, I’m inviting you to plan mine with me. We’ll go step by step through my process, from mid-winter seed inventory to planting day in late spring. Along the way, I’ll explain why I take certain steps in the name of sustainability and share tips you can use to plan your own sustainable garden with high eco-friendly yields.
00:00 Intro
01:41 Seeds Or Sprouts
03:43 When Do You Need To Start?
06:08 January: Planning Garden
17:05 February: Taking Stock & Ordering Seeds
18:50 February: Planting Early Plants
21:44 March: The Wait
22:48 May to June: Planting Season
23:16 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-seeds
sustainablejungle.com/what-are-heirloom-seeds
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-gardening
sustainablejungle.com/ecological-gardening
sustainablejungle.com/apartment-gardening
sustainablejungle.com/self-sufficient-homestead
sustainablejungle.com/backyard-homestead
plantmaps.com
planthardiness.ars.usda.gov
transformativeadventures.org/2018/05/15/french-intensive-methods-for-permaculture
johnnyseeds.com/growers-library/methods-tools-supplies/market-gardening/succession-planting-interval-chart-vegetables.html
modernfrontierswoman.com/how-to-make-a-succession-garden-schedule
azurefarmlife.com/farm-blog/what-does-it-mean-to-harden-off-plants
But let's face it, most of that 'decluttering' ends with a mountain of trash bags destined for the landfill. But what if I told you there’s a better way? One that doesn’t involve the dumpster or the guilt? Stick around, and I’ll show you how to declutter sustainably—because your old stuff deserves a second chance, not a one-way ticket to the dump.
00:00 Intro
02:18 The Waste Problem
05:17 Sell
06:51 Trade or Swap
08:13 Donate
10:00 Upcycle
12:00 Compost
13:35 Recycle Responsibly
16:55 Tips To Keep Your Clutter in Control
19:27 Outro
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/what-not-to-compost
sustainablejungle.com/what-is-compostable
sustainablejungle.com/compost-clothes
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/recycle-old-clothes
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/what-to-do-with-old-wedding-dresses
sustainablejungle.com/what-to-do-with-old-jeans
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/what-to-do-with-old-underwear-and-bras
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-living/what-to-do-with-old-tupperware
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/what-to-do-with-old-socks
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/what-to-do-with-old-shoes
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-living/what-to-do-with-old-pillows
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/recycle-old-clothes
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-fashion/what-to-do-with-old-clothes
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-living/what-to-do-with-old-books
sustainablejungle.com/sustainable-living/mattress-recycling
earth.org/statistics-about-fast-fashion-waste
waste360.com/waste-recycling/recycling-with-sole
statista.com/statistics/499891/projection-ewaste-generation-worldwide
statista.com/statistics/1067081/generation-electronic-waste-globally-forecast
ewastemonitor.info/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/GEM_2024_18-03_web_page_per_page_web.pdf
newrepublic.com/article/156208/fast-furniture-environmental-fiasco
prnewswire.com/news-releases/more-than-64-million-americans-have-or-will-discard-large-furniture-when-moving-91459824.html
businessoffashion.com/articles/sustainability/resale-wont-fix-fast-fashions-sustainability-issues
greencitizen.com/services/mail-in-electronics-recycling/%5C
homeboyrecycling.com/mail-in-electronics-recycling-kits
wm.com/us/en/home/recycle-by-mail
https://girlfriend.supercircle.world/account/
shop.terracycle.com/en-US/products?sort_by=most_popular
If you’re wondering why your iPhone feels slower every time a new one comes out, it’s not just in your head! Apple has been accused more than once of pushing people into buying new devices by… well, making the old ones worse. Battery throttling on older models? Check. Software updates that mysteriously make your phone slower? Double check!
In other words, planned obsolescence is when companies deliberately make products with a limited lifespan. Sometimes it’s in the form of tech that ages poorly, or parts that are just impossible to fix, forcing you to buy another one. And another. And another.
Let's deep dive into this unethical practice that needs to be addressed.
00:00 Intro
01:45 What Is Planned Obsolescence?
03:47 Big Tech & the Obsolescence Trap
08:12 Why Planned Obsolescence Is Unsustainable
10:56 Solutions?
14:20 The Consumer Role
15:33 Outro
Sources
investopedia.com/terms/p/planned_obsolescence.asp
dictionary.cambridge.org/us/dictionary/english/built-in-planned-obsolescence
iberdrola.com/sustainability/planned-obsolescence
populationmatters.org/news/2024/04/from-lightbulbs-to-smartphones-the-practice-of-planned-obsolescence
bbc.com/news/technology-51413724
reuters.com/article/us-apple-iphones-settlement/apple-to-pay-up-to-500-million-to-settle-u-s-lawsuit-over-slow-iphones-idUSKBN20P2E7
macrumors.com/2018/01/16/chinese-consumer-group-apple-iphone-slowdowns
macrumors.com/2018/01/19/iphone-battery-slowdowns-probes-italy-south-korea
macrumors.com/2018/01/03/brazil-apple-iphone-battery-replacements
macrumors.com/2018/01/08/apple-french-consumer-fraud-investigation
amp.theguardian.com/technology/2018/oct/24/apple-samsung-fined-for-slowing-down-phones
techradar.com/news/apple-might-be-slowing-down-your-old-iphone-on-purpose
macrumors.com/2017/12/30/apple-29-usd-iphone-battery-replacements-now-avail
support.apple.com/iphone/repair/battery-replacement
support.apple.com/en-us/101575
macrumors.com/2018/03/29/apple-releases-ios-11-3
apple.com/newsroom/2021/11/apple-announces-self-service-repair
selfservicerepair.com/en-US/home
samsung.com/us/support/self-repair
populationmatters.org/news/2024/04/from-lightbulbs-to-smartphones-the-practice-of-planned-obsolescence
https://www.who.int/news-room/photo-story/photo-story-detail/10-chemicals-of-public-health-concern
statista.com/statistics/499891/projection-ewaste-generation-worldwide
statista.com/statistics/1067081/generation-electronic-waste-globally-forecast
theroundup.org/global-e-waste-statistics
earth.org/e-waste-recycling-rates-remain-dangerously-low-as-demand-for-electronic-devices-booms-un-report-reveals
ewastemonitor.info/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/GEM_2024_18-03_web_page_per_page_web.pdf
makeuseof.com/apple-displays-product-repairability-rating
bbc.com/future/article/20210128-right-to-repair-how-the-french-are-fighting-avoidable-waste
insidehook.com/culture/france-repair-law-tech
getenviropass.com/durability-index
longtimelabel.com/en/news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-the-durability-index
https://www.eea.europa.eu/en/circularity/thematic-metrics/business/data-on-products-evaluated-against-the-french-repairability-index-1
1technation.com/right-to-repair-update-a-movement-gaining-momentum
repair.org/stand-up
news.bloomberglaw.com/us-law-week/ny-becomes-first-state-to-pass-electronics-right-to-repair-law
ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2021/05/ftc-report-congress-examines-anti-competitive-repair-restrictions-recommends-ways-expand-consumers’
https://www.evz.de/en/shopping-internet/right-to-repair.html
bbc.com/news/business-49884827
theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/11/eu-brings-in-right-to-repair-rules-for-phones-and-tablets
theconversation.com/if-you-buy-it-why-cant-you-fix-it-heres-why-we-still-dont-have-the-right-to-repair-203236
retail-insider.com/bulletin/2024/11/canada-enacts-bills-advancing-the-right-to-repair
geopoliticaleconomy.com/2024/08/19/us-big-tech-monopolies-neo-feudalism
Meet 'underconsumption core,' the latest anti-consumerist movement to sweep the internet.
But is it actually different from minimalism, or just minimalism rebranded in Gen Z lingo? And is underconsumption core a good thing or just another under-developed trend that’s more about impression than real impact?
00:00 Intro
00:50 What is Underconsumption Core?
02:38 Underconsumption Core’s Goals and Reach
04:23 Underconsumption Core in Practice: What Does It Look Like?
06:08 Criticisms of Underconsumption Core: Aesthetics Over Impact
08:40 Criticisms of Underconsumption Core: Accessibility
11:09 Criticisms of Underconsumption Core: Fake Sustainability?
12:42 Outro
Resources:
youtube.com/watch?v=kDlwmT9WavU
huffpost.com/entry/underconsumption-core-tiktok-trend_l_66b507bee4b044cc5e991b35
theeverygirl.com/underconsumption-core
cnbc.com/2024/04/09/most-of-americans-are-living-paycheck-to-paycheck-heres-why.html
nytimes.com/2024/07/25/style/tiktok-underconsumption-influencers.html
huffpost.com/entry/underconsumption-core-tiktok-trend_l_66b507bee4b044cc5e991b35
cnbc.com/2024/08/19/what-tiktoks-underconsumption-core-trend-means-for-your-money.html
impact.economist.com/sustainability/net-zero-and-energy/fresh-takes-on-climate-change-the-power-of-gen-z-perspectives-in-tech
odessadenby.medium.com/is-minimalism-just-elitism-in-disguise-e486d8cebbd1
theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2017/mar/04/minimalism-conspicuous-consumption-class
Here's the full recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-air-freshener
Here's the full recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-air-freshener
The NFL might know how to score touchdowns, but when it comes to sustainability, it’s time to step up the playbook. With waste stacking higher than a Hail Mary pass and emissions rivaling a full season’s worth of road games, football’s environmental impact can’t be ignored.
00:00 Intro
01:52 Stadium Waste
03:26 Travel Emissions
04:06 Consumption Culture
04:50 Game-Changing Solutions
06:26 Climate Neutral Super Bowl in Phoenix, Arizona
07:15 Philadelphia Eagles’ Go Green Initiative
08:04 Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Falcons)
09:10 Levi’s Stadium (San Francisco 49ers)
09:53 Minneapolis’ US Bank Stadium
11:12 Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena
11:50 How Fans Can Make a Difference
15:42 Outro
Sources
nationalgeographic.com/science/article/super-bowl-54-zero-waste-miami
cleanrobotics.com/the-problem-with-stadium-recycling-and-waste-management
thecounter.org/on-super-bowl-sunday-as-much-as-40000-pounds-of-food-will-be-wasted
innotechtoday.com/game-changing-sustainability-how-nfl-stadiums-can-go-plastic-free
vox.com/ad/352390/how-seattles-climate-pledge-arena-achieved-zero-waste-status
bleacherreport.com/articles/1775983-cowboys-stadium-uses-more-electricity-on-game-day-than-liberial
sustainabilitymag.com/sustainability/how-sustainable-is-the-super-bowl?
phoenix.gov/newsroom/public-works/2666
mercedesbenzstadium.com/sustainability
climatepledgearena.com/sustainability
usbankstadium.com/stadium-info/sustainability
nfl.com/causes/nfl-green
statista.com/statistics/216526/super-bowl-us-tv-viewership
hortonbarbell.com/average-height-weight-of-nfl-players-by-position
https://plastic.education/plastic-waste-in-stadiums/
statista.com/statistics/217134/total-advertisement-revenue-of-super-bowls
epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator
carboncredits.com/beyond-touchdowns-and-trophies-unveiling-the-carbon-footprint-of-superbowl-lviii
us.anteagroup.com/news-events/blog/super-bowl-sustainability
philadelphiaeagles.com/community/go-green
prnewswire.com/news-releases/an-nfl-first-49ers-and-united-airlines-launch-saf-pilot-project-to-reduce-carbon-emissions-from-air-travel-302251222.html
nytimes.com/2023/09/20/sports/stadiums-sustainability-climate-change.html
usbankstadium.com/stadium-info/sustainability
youtube.com/watch?v=uWwV3PqJSYY
mashable.com/archive/super-bowl-food
And that's exactly why we're converts for making our own personal cleaning products where we can.
As for this recipe it uses baking soda which is espeically handy and safe for use on natural stone. But you can also use it on coated tile and laminate. Because grout is typically stone-based, this formula is also ideal as a homemade floor grout cleaner too.
Here's the recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-floor-cleaner
And this recipe using vinegar is perfect as a DIY floor cleaner for tile, laminate, and sealed hardwood floors. The only type you’ll want to avoid using this on is natural stone.
Here's the recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-floor-cleaner
Here's the full recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/diy-carpet-cleaning
Here's the full recipe:
sustainablejungle.com/diy-carpet-cleaning
Pretty much all scouring powders are loaded with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and toxic additives that are mostly just filler. It makes little sense using these overpriced products when you can whip up your own natural homemade scouring powder in just a few minutes.
And this DIY recipe is super simple with just a few natural ingredients:
sustainablejungle.com/homemade-scouring-powder
Well, in this video, I’m diving into potential Etsy alternatives for handmade goods—to help both makers and buyers learn about other options if they, like myself, are tired of Etsy’s policies and Temu-resale garbage.
Some of these online platforms you've definitely heard of but may not appreciate how they compare to Etsy and others are not well known. Watch the whole video to see which online stores would work best for your buying and selling needs.
00:00 Intro
01:45 How to Support Small Makers Anywhere
08:45 Shopify Or Other Direct Web Storefronts
11:35 eBay
13:08 GoImagine
14:54 Michael’s MakerPlace
16:34 Uncommon Goods
18:56 Ko-fi
20:34 Folksy
21:40 Madeit
22:23 Big Cartel
23:11 Gumroad
23:55 Tedooo
24:40 The British Craft House
26:11 Storenvy
28:11 TikTok Shop
30:10 Amazon Handmade
32:53 Local Craft Fairs and Markets
33:38 Conclusion
Sources
sustainablejungle.com/alternatives-to-amazon
goimagine.com
goimagine.com/blog/goimagines-founder-talks-funding-mission-and-future-for-their-philanthropic-handmade-marketplace
michaels.com/makerplace/sell
uncommongoods.com
ko-fi.com
folksy.com
https://madeit.com.au/
bigcartel.com
gumroad.com
tedooo.com
thebritishcrafthouse.co.uk
storenvy.com
tiktok.com/shop
amazon.com/b?ie=UTF8&node=120955898011
sell.amazon.com/programs/handmade
sell.amazon.com/sell


