If I told you that most of the world’s food supply is grown on just 3-6 inches of dirt, you’d probably think that I was crazy. But that’s exactly why our top soil is so important. Top soil is the rich, fertile upper 3-6 inches of soil, and it’s where you can find most of the essential nutrients, microorganisms, and moisture that plants need to thrive. 

Throughout history, topsoil has been a key factor in the development of human civilizations. That’s why you have probably heard of “the Fertile Crescent.” This region in the Middle East was a hotspot for early civilizations because access to water and rich topsoil provided a perfect recipe for settled agriculture. 

However, our topsoil is disappearing. In 2024, the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), issued a press release raising concern that, without action, 90% of soils could be degraded by 2050. Degraded soils have a loose texture, lack vital nutrients, and fail to perform important ecosystem services, like growing our food. In other words, soil degradation causes less plants and crops to grow, which in turn means there is less for us all to eat.

Making our soils healthy again is a goal we all need to rally around. But how exactly can we fix our top soil problem and still meet the intense demand for commercial agriculture? 

In the United States, one emerging solution is growing cover crops. Cover crops are grown in the off-season between cash crop harvests, but they aren’t meant to be harvested, they’re grown to support soil health. Planting them helps to improve soil organic matter, cycle nutrients, limit weeds, prevent compaction, and maintain the soil’s microbial ecosystem. 

The United States is the second largest agricultural exporter after the European Union, accounting for a staggering $176 billion in trade in 2024 alone. But this extensive production has led to 1.7 billion tons of soil eroded annually in the U.S. Now farmers are trying to identify low-cost, effective ways to reverse the damage and improve soil health. Cover crops are increasingly part of the solution. From 2017 to 2022, the land used to grow them has expanded by 17% across the U.S. In some states, it’s double that; in Texas, cover crop acreage grew by 50%.  Cover crops can help heal our soils and boost agricultural yields however, not all cover crops are created equal. Meet the heroes of the cover crop movement!

“Peas” Help Me!

There’s no denying the impact that these little green guys have on soil. As a member of the legume family, peas are nitrogen-fixers. They house special bacteria (rhizobia) in nodules on their roots that can take nitrogen gas from the air and “fix” it into a plant-available form in the soil. 

This natural process reduces the need for synthetic nitrogen fertilizer when growing a commercial crop, which both saves farmers money and helps to minimize the environmental impact of fertilizer runoff, which can cause harmful algal blooms in lakes and rivers.  As a cool-season annual, peas also help to keep the soil covered and protected from erosion during colder months.

“Rye” Not Improve Your Soil?

Cereal rye is a common choice for cover crops, especially in cooler climates; that’s probably why rye is the most widely used cover crop in Pennsylvania. Rye is also an excellent crop for suppressing weeds and preventing soil erosion during the winter. 

Rye’s extensive, fibrous root system helps preserve soil structure since it physically holds the soil in place, protecting it against erosion by wind and water. Rye also feeds soil microbes, which are tiny living organisms like bacteria and fungi that are vital for plant growth. 

When cereal rye dies off in the spring, the large amount of biomass (organic matter) left behind on the surface forms a thick “mulch.” This mulch reduces water evaporation and increases soil organic matter.

“Radish”-ally Effective!

Don’t let their small size fool you… tillage radishes (a member of the Diakon family) are champions of soil improvement. Their distinctive large taproot acts as a natural “bio-drill.” As the root reaches into the soil, it breaks up compacted layers, naturally improving the soil’s aeration and water infiltration. During the colder months, the plant dies and the taproot decomposes, leaving behind a deep channel. These channels create pathways for the roots of the next cash crop to be grown and help rainwater soak into the ground instead of running off.

“Bean” There, Done That

Faba beans are another excellent cool-season cover crop. Like peas, they “fix” atmospheric nitrogen, adding crucial natural fertilizer to the soil. If you prefer a late spring or summer cover crop, planting warm-season beans, like mung beans, quickly produces a massive amount of biomass. This high biomass increases soil organic matter, which enhances the soil’s water-holding capacity. 

“Oat”-side the Box

Like cereal rye, oats are a cool-season cover crop that are popular for their ability to suppress weeds, scavenge nitrogen, and limit erosion. Unlike beans, oats do not “fix” atmospheric nitrogen in the soil. Instead, this crop stores excess soil nitrogen until it decomposes, preventing nitrogen losses from the soil. With careful management to avoid soil compaction, an oat cover crop can also be used for livestock grazing, killing two birds (weeds?) with one stone! 

A Global Benefit

Looking beyond the United States, cover crops are being adopted across the world, including the European Union (EU) which has kept cover crops as a component of their 2023 – 2027 Common Agricultural Policy. This has led some EU nations, like France, to adopt compulsory cover crops with rules that mandate growing cover crops after summer harvests, a time when land would usually be left fallow, or unplanted. 

In China, cover crops are being promoted as a technique to improve main crop yield. This aligns with overall Chinese agricultural goals which prioritize high agricultural production due to growing population and limited arable land per capita. In 2015, the Chinese government enforced the “Zero-Growth Action on Fertilizer” which greatly reduced use of synthetic fertilizers. 

As a result, producers are turning to cover crops to improve soil health. So far, the shift seems to be working; despite being below the global average, a 2023 study found a 6.2% yield benefit in China after using legume cover crops. A 2021 study, found yield benefits around 12% when winter cover crops were added to subtropical rice systems. 

Even though cover crops are usually used by commercial farmers, the same benefits apply when you plant cover crops in your garden. So as you prepare for the next planting season, consider saving yourself a trip to buy potting soil or weed killer, and try out some of these cover crops. I promise your soil will thank you. 

If you’re looking for other ways to preserve our shared soil, consider supporting EARTHDAY’s Canopy Tree Project to reforest our planet; like some cover crops, tree roots improve soil stability and act as natural carbon sinks.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is cleared for use with attribution. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

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Delegates are currently gathering in Belém, Brazil, for COP30, the 30th annual Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These annual meetings are intended to allow countries, non-governmental organizations, and other parties to review progress on climate change mitigation and negotiating agreements on how to address climate change.   

It is estimated that Brazil hosts 15-20% of the world’s biodiversity, making it the most biodiverse country in the world. Called the “gateway to the Amazon,” hosting COP30 in Belém underscores the urgency of forest and biodiversity protection, but it also serves as a focal point for climate activists movements. Youth have a deep stake in these talks, as their generation will bear the most severe impacts of delayed climate action.

Around the world, people under 30 make up a majority of the population in many developing nations. These countries are often the most vulnerable to climate change impacts like extreme weather, drought, and resource scarcity. Young people are leading grassroots action, demanding accountability from governments and corporations, and developing innovative solutions that are critical for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement.  

The global youth climate movement, energized by figures like Greta Thunberg and movements like Fridays for Future, has transformed from street protests into a powerful political presence. 

Our own Climate Education Coalition, has seen youth activists from all over the world band together and work tirelessly to get climate education into every school curriculum. Their campaigning is working. There are now 152 nations, 60 using similar EDO model language, who have embraced some form of climate education in their Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submissions for COP30.

As climate change continues to accelerate and human activities further contribute to rising temperatures, including youth voices in annual climate conferences is essential for securing long-term, equitable climate commitments.

COP30 and Youth Voices

Youth participation at COPs has grown significantly since the first meeting in 1995. While initially limited to side events and protests, young people now form dedicated delegations like the European Youth Forum. These youth groups also have a formalized constituency within the UNFCCC known as YOUNGO (Youth Non-Governmental Organizations).   

COP30 is expected to feature an unprecedented level of youth involvement. Brazilian civil society, which has strong youth engagement, is working to ensure young activists are integrated into the processes.

The COP30 Presidency has also signaled a commitment to intergenerational dialogue. The conference is set to include dedicated youth programs intended to bring their perspectives directly into policy discussions. This shifts from viewing youth as observers to recognizing them as essential contributors to policy.   

Key Agendas and Demands

With this year’s COP anticipated to have record youth participation, how will these youths contribute to negotiations surrounding climate change adaptation and mitigation?

Youth groups at COP30 are uniting around several critical demands. A recent youth protest at COP30 focused on securing robust financing for the Loss and Damage Fund, which helps climate-vulnerable nations recover from disasters, and ensuring that climate policies do not burden the world’s most vulnerable populations.   

Youth movements are also supporting Indigenous leaders at COP30, recognizing that the protection of the Amazon, a key focus of COP30, requires traditional knowledge and the defense of Indigenous land rights. 

Increasingly the protection of forests is becoming a hot button issue for both youth and Indigenous communities. If you want to learn more about why forests matter, please watch our brand new series UNDERREPORTED EARTH – “TREE TALES”– IG TRAIL. 

In this series, Tracy McVeigh from The Guardian speaks with three top investigative journalists about their groundbreaking reporting: Elisangela Mendonça uncovers how the Amazon rainforest is being threatened by the collagen industry. Josephine Moulds takes us into the Congo Basin, where fossil fuel auctions are endangering one of the world’s most vital forest ecosystems. Ana Bottallo travels deep into the Amazonian mangroves to witness how local communities fought to have their voices heard. The episodes went live on November 17/18th/19th across EARTHDAY.ORG social media, including on Facebook: Ep.1, Ep.2, Ep.3  and YouTube:  Ep.1, Ep.2, Ep.3.

Youth activists are also pushing for all long-term national and international commitments to be assessed by their impact on future generations. Youth groups are also advocating for investments in education and vocational training, to better prepare them for the shift to a rapidly growing green economy.

What’s Next for COP30? 

The increased presence of youth movements at COP30 will be essential to maintain pressure on negotiators to deliver ambitious outcomes. The energy and moral clarity of the youth movement are vital for bridging the gap between current government commitments and the action required by climate science.

As COP30 negotiations unfold over the coming week, consider supporting youth-focused initiatives like EARTHDAY.ORG’s Climate Education Coalition to help amplify the demands of the next generation of climate leaders.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is cleared for use with attribution. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

The post Listen Up! Youth Demands at COP30 appeared first on Earth Day.

Our favorite group of illusionists is reuniting for a diamond heist movie, but bunnies in hats and precious jewels aren’t the only things disappearing. 

Delegates are currently gathering in Belém, Brazil, for COP30, the 30th annual Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It is estimated that Brazil hosts 15-20% of the world’s biodiversity, making it the most biodiverse country in the world, largely because the nation is home to a vast quantity of endemic species; species that only live in defined geographical regions. 

Unfortunately, the environments that make Brazil, the world’s biodiversity hotspot, is rapidly disappearing, and it’s not because of magic… it’s because of mining. 

Over the past 300 years, Brazil’s mining industry has evolved from a volatile, boom-and-bust gold rush economy to a global powerhouse in minerals, including iron ore, bauxite, nickel, rare earth minerals and diamonds. In 2023, Brazilian mineral exports reached a staggering $42.98 billion, and output continues to climb. Unfortunately, government regulation has lagged behind, failing to keep up with the industry’s explosive growth and its negative environmental impact.

Although existing legislation encourages some degree of formalization of some mining activities, through mining permits, worker cooperatives, and new monitoring mechanisms (including the use of satellite data), “garimpo” mines which are small, artisanal, and often occur on land where mining is illegal, remain unregulated. 

As the Brazilian mining industry expands its global reach (mining exploration investments in Brazil increased by 51.6% from 2019 to 2024), persistent underregulation casts a long shadow, posing severe threats to Brazil’s forests, the nation’s biodiversity, its waterways, and the indigenous communities who call the land home.

A Vanishing Act: Brazilian Forests

Even as the world celebrates an 11-year deforestation low in Brazil, the impact mining has on forests is undeniable. In 2015, a comprehensive study  attributed 9% of total deforestation between 2005 and 2015 in the Brazilian Amazon to activities associated with mining. 

Mining is a particular menace for the Amazon because it causes direct deforestation, the complete clearing of vegetation for open-pit mines (like those for iron-ore and bauxite), and indirect deforestation which refers to the clearing of forests for mining associated activities, like building extensive networks of access roads. 

This double burden means more trees get cut down, more habitats get destroyed, and more species are lost. A search of the IUCN Redlist for species in Brazil reveals that 1,810 species in the country are currently classified as “endangered” or “critically endangered,” and habitat loss is a key factor.  

On top of these threats, illegal garimpo mining has been pervasive in Brazil. A 2024 study exploring garimpo mining operations found that  91% of the garimpo mining operations studied from 1985 to 2022 occurred on protected land in the Amazon rainforest.

Smoke, Mirrors, and Poisoned Rivers 

Brazil’s intricate river systems allow contamination to travel far beyond the mining site. The process of gold extraction, uses mercury to create mercury-gold amalgam which can have far reaching impacts.

Mercury waste products seep or get dumped into rivers, where they contaminate aquatic environments. This toxin can bioaccumulate, or build up over time in different levels of the food chain, leading to dangerous mercury levels in fish, which are a staple protein for rural villages. Research is ongoing, but some river communities are noticing an increase in birth defects and neurological disorders that could be related to mercury consumption.  

Even large river systems like the Madeira and Tapajós rivers have seen contamination, with river studies from 1992 to 2022 showing the persistent presence of mercury in aquatic ecosystems. Additionally, illegal garimpo mining can result in mining by-products, or tailings, getting dumped directly into streams and tributaries, causing severe pollution and sometimes visibly altering the color and life within the waterways, something the world witnessed in 2015, when a dam break allowed disgustingly yellow sludge from the Doce River to reach the Atlantic Ocean.

Cut in Half: Invasion of Indigenous Land 

The 1988 Brazilian Constitution restricts illegal mining on Indigenous lands, but high demand for minerals has driven miners to Indigenous lands anyway. In 2022, garimpo mining extraction areas covered 2630 km^2, 12 times larger than the area in 1985. On these lands, lack of regulation isn’t the problem; in 2022, at least 15% (390 km^2) of garimpo mining occurred in regions that ALREADY restrict mining activity, including indigenous lands. 

Beyond the loss of land, mining on and near indigenous communities has been attributed to a host of health issues, including malnutrition and food insecurity as hunting and planting areas are contaminated. In 2023, the condition of the Yanomami people of the Amazon, who have been greatly impacted by mining, was described as a humanitarian crisis and “genocidal neglect.” The Brazilian government has made significant strides since then, expanding health services and discouraging mining in the area, but a long road remains ahead. 

Poof! Catastrophe

In 2019, the world watched in horror as scenes from Brumadinho Dam collapse in Minas Gerais, Brazil gained international coverage. The dam was used to store the sludge-like by-product of a nearby iron ore mine. During its collapse, that sludge spread to the Doce River and the Atlantic Ocean, contaminating aquatic environments and ecosystems and killing wildlife. An estimated 270 people died. 

The collapse sparked a national and international outcry for justice, stricter mining regulations, and greater corporate accountability. Vale, the corporate owner of the dam, agreed to pay around $7 billion in restitution to communities and families affected by the dam collapse. The company also announced its intent to decommission its other tailings dams in the country, a strong step in the right direction for industrial mining in Brazil. 

Beyond the “Magic” Trick

The great illusion of unchecked mining is costing us one of the planet’s most vital ecosystems. While the delegates at COP30 debate policy in Belém, the Amazon rainforest — the ground beneath their feet — is being sacrificed for gold, diamonds and rare earth minerals. 

The loss of trees, the poisoning of the Tapajós and Madeira rivers, and the threat to Indigenous ways of life are not a clever magician’s trick; they are a direct and documented consequence of unregulated mining. 

Just as illusionists need an audience to complete their act, the fight for the Amazon needs your voice. Don’t let the Brazilian rainforest and its people disappear in this “vanishing act” of corporate and regulatory neglect. Support EARTHDAY.ORG’s Canopy Tree Project to preserve the world’s forests.

If you want to learn more about why forests matter – please watch our brand new series UNDERREPORTED EARTH – “TREE TALES”– IG TRAIL. 

Tracy McVeigh from The Guardian speaks with three top investigative journalists about their groundbreaking reporting: Elisangela Mendonça uncovers how the Amazon rainforest is being threatened by the collagen industry. Josephine Moulds takes us into the Congo Basin, where fossil fuel auctions are endangering one of the world’s most vital forest ecosystems. Ana Bottallo travels deep into the Amazonian mangroves to witness how local communities fought —  to have their voices heard.

The episodes go live November 17/18th/19th across EARTHDAY.ORG social media  on Facebook: Ep.1, Ep.2, Ep.3   and YouTube:  Ep.1, Ep.2, Ep.3.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is cleared for use with attribution. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

The post Mining, Mismanagement, and Magic Tricks appeared first on Earth Day.

Every year, thousands of climate experts, activists, and policymakers gather for an annual conference on climate change. Called the Conference of Parties, or COP, this annual meeting  for all 198 parties included in the United Nations Framework on Climate Change brings together a diverse group of world leaders, institutions, climate experts and a whole army of fossil fuel lobbyists to discuss climate and national commitments. 

This year, COP30 is hosted in the heart of the Amazon: Belém, Brazil. As global emissions remain high, it’s a critical moment of international reckoning. In 2024, global CO2 emissions rose by 0.8% to a record high of 37.4 billion tonnes, pushing atmospheric CO2 concentrations to 422.5 parts per million — about 50% higher than pre-industrial levels. 

So just who will be in ‘the room’ at COP30 where decisions to tackle these issues get made?  Special envoys will be key; these are volunteers selected by the COP Presidency to represent key sectors and regions. 

These envoys are tasked with facilitating the flow of information between stakeholders and COP leadership and they act as key points of contact. This year, there are 7 international envoys for strategic regions who each bring years of governing experience and unique regional perspectives to COP30. Let’s meet them….

1. Adan Amin (Middle East) 

Adan Amin, the Chair of the World Energy Council, is the special envoy for the Middle East at COP 30. A sustainable development economist by trade, Mr. Amin stepped onto the world stage in 2011 as the first director-general of the International Renewable Energy Agency, which rapidly became an authoritative voice for the renewable energy transition. 

Amin was selected as the Chief Executive Officer for COP28, leading the negotiations that launched the UAE consensus. We’re excited to see how Mr. Amin leverages his wealth of international negotiation experience in Brazil this November! 

2. Jacinda Ardern (Oceania)

Dame Jacinda Ardern, who served as the Prime Minister of New Zealand from 2017 to 2023, is a special envoy for Oceania at COP 30. 

Having achieved international acclaim for her self-described “empathetic approach” to leadership, Dame Ardern chose to resign as PM in 2023. Since stepping down, she has continued to work on the issues that defined her premiership: making space for new styles of leadership, combatting extremism, and defending the environment. 

Today, her extensive involvement includes being a fellow at Harvard University, a trustee for Prince William’s innovative environmental competition: the Earthshot Prize, a patron of Christchurch Call to Action which is dedicated to eliminating terrorist and violent extremism online content, and founder of the Field Fellowship on empathetic leadership. It will be interesting to see how Dame Ardern leverages this diverse experience to build crucial dialogue across priority sectors in COP 30. 

3. Patricia Espinosa (Latin America)

Patricia Espinosa is a distinguished Mexican diplomat and global climate leader who currently serves as the CEO and co-founder of onepoint5, a climate and ESG (environment, social, governance) consulting group. 

During her tenure as Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) from 2016 to 2022, Ambassador Espinosa shaped the implementation of the Paris Agreement Rulebook. 

Prior to this role, she served as Secretary of Foreign Affairs of Mexico (2006–2012). With more than 35 years of experience in diplomacy and international relations, we look forward to seeing how Ambassador Espinosa guides action items at COP30. 

4. Arunabha Ghosh (South Asia) 

The founder and CEO of the Council on Energy, Environment, and Water (CEEW), a prominent climate think tank, Arunabha Ghosh has more than two decades of experience across 54 countries as a climate leader. 

In 2022, the UN Secretary-General appointed him to the High-level Expert Group on the Credibility and Accountability of Net-Zero Announcements by Non-State Actors. 

In Oct 2024, the Government of India appointed him to the Commission for Air Quality Management. Dr.Ghosh also serves as a co-chair of the World Economic Forum’s Global Future Council on the Energy Nexus. Over the past few months, Dr. Ghosh has gone on a “listening tour” of South Asia to prepare for his role as special envoy and will bring those concerns, perspectives, and innovative ideas to COP 30. 

5. Carlos Lopes (Africa) 

A development economist, chair of the African Climate Foundation, and honorary professor at the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town, Carlos Lopes intends to bring a distinctly African perspective to COP30. 

Dr. Lopes has previously served as the eighth Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa from 2012 to 2016, and as High Representative of the African Union for partnerships with Europe. 

For this COP, he’ll be returning to a familiar environment having previously served as the United Nations Development Program Resident Representative in Brazil, overseeing one of the largest UNDP programs globally. In his recent articles for Project-Syndicate, Dr. Lopes has emphasized the importance of building value-chains and expanding the carbon market regulations. We look forward to seeing how he advocates for these action items for COP 30. 

6. Jonathan Pershing (North America)

Dr. Jonathan Pershing is a globally recognized expert in climate diplomacy, currently serving as the Program director of Environment at the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation. He brings decades of experience in governance and international engagement. 

A veteran of the UN climate process since 1990, he served as the lead U.S. negotiator for the U.N. Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and was part of the IPCC team awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2007 for their landmark report on climate change. 

His distinguished career includes high-level roles as Deputy to Presidential Envoy John Kerry and Special Envoy for Climate Change at the U.S. Department of State, alongside senior positions at the U.S. Department of Energy, the International Energy Agency, and the World Resources Institute.

7. Laurence Tubiana (Europe)

Laurence Tubiana is a leading international climate diplomat and CEO of the European Climate Foundation (ECF). Her pivotal role as France’s Climate Change Ambassador and Special Representative for COP21 meant she was a key architect of the successful Paris Agreement. 

She founded the prestigious think tank, the Institut du Développement Durable et des Relations Internationales (IDDRI), and continues to shape policy as co-chair of the Global Solidarity Levies Task Force, a professor at the École Normale Supérieure in Paris, and chair of the Paris Climate School at Sciences Po. 

In recognition of her contributions to diplomacy and environmental policy, she was awarded the prestigious Légion d’Honneur in 2024. Tubiana has been outspoken on deepening European and Brazil cooperation at COP30, and we’re excited to see how updated NDCs reflect this desire. 

What’s Next? 

The conversations and negotiations at COP 30 will help shape a global roadmap, but the true change starts at home. While world leaders debate policy, we must shift from being observers to participants.
Do not let the headlines pass by without action. Commit to implementing one change in your daily habits to support the environment — whether it’s switching to public transport, embracing meatless meals, or supporting vital initiatives like Earthday’s Canopy Tree Project. We must hold ourselves accountable to our planet. Your daily decisions are the most powerful climate policy we have.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is cleared for use with attribution. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

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On October 31st we revel in all things spooky, scary, supernatural, AND everything to do with lemurs! That’s right, it’s World Lemur Day! 

At EARTHDAY.ORG, lemurs hold a special place in our hearts. Since starting the Canopy Tree Project in 2010, EARTHDAY.ORG has worked to reforest communities across the world, including in Ambatobe, Madagascar where 60,000 trees were planted to restore the forest. This regrowth benefits all species, but particularly lemurs, since 98% of lemurs in Madagascar face extinction, and habitat loss is a key factor. 

However, lemurs aren’t the only species at risk; from cheetahs, to rhinos, to panthers, to manatees, to owls, thousands of species are reaching a critical point. Here are five nature documentaries that will help you better understand the threats facing endangered species and inspire you to take action to support their right to life.

Wild Connection (Kenya)

The cheetah, the world’s fastest land animal, is racing toward extinction. Its global population has plummeted from around 100,000 in the 1900s to 7,100 in 2016. Today, it’s estimated that less than 7,000 exist in the wild. Habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and the illegal exotic pet trade are the primary threats to these cats. 

The short documentary “Wild Connection,” directed by Jack Zakrajsek, offers a hopeful glimpse into cheetah conservation efforts. The film follows Nick Kleer, a corporate worker turned conservationist, and his wife, Kristina, as they develop deep, personal bonds with cheetahs at Tiger Canyon Private Game Reserve in South Africa. 

Though the focus is on South Africa, the film’s message about conservation is universal, connecting to the cheetah’s plight across Africa. In the documentary, viewers see Kleer’s unique rewilding approach as cheetahs acclimated to  human presence are prepared for release into the wild. By showcasing the power of an empathetic connection between humans and wildlife, the film makes a compelling argument that we can be a positive force in species survival, reminding viewers that, like Kleer says, “If you can’t love it, you can’t save it.”

Path of the Panther (United States)

Having once roamed the entire South East, Florida Panthers are now confined to a tiny stretch along the Gulf of Mexico. It’s estimated that only about 200 panthers remain in the wild. “Path of the Panther,” directed by Eric Bendick, catalogues the efforts by photographers, veterinarians, ranchers, indigenous people, and conservationists to track and protect the endangered Florida Panther. Stunning images of panthers lightly springing over streams, recovering after hurricanes, and finally crossing the Caloosatche River (no female panther had been seen in this territory since 1973) captured by Carlton Ward Jr., a National Geographic Photographer, make a compelling argument to preserve the land. 

The film also highlights tensions surrounding development in southern Florida. In 2020, a proposal for three new toll roads threatened to fragment wildlife habitat, ranches, farms, and spur residential development in previously wild areas. 

One proposed road, the Southwest-Central Florida Connector, would have passed directly through Florida Panther habitat. Community opposition was swift, and while it might be a spoiler to say more, the film’s story of resilience, survival, and community is certainly worth a watch. 

Saving the World’s Rarest Lemurs | In Her Nature Special (Madagascar) 

Thought to be extinct in the 1970s, there are still fewer than 1,000 greater bamboo lemurs living in the wild. Considered critically endangered after their latest assessment for the IUCN Red List in 2018, these lemurs’ diets are 95% bamboo. As slash and burn agriculture, a farming technique that involves deforesting sections of a forest and burning undergrowth, continues to destroy lemur habitat, many bamboo lemurs are struggling to find enough bamboo to eat. 

“Saving the World’s Rarest Lemurs,” an episode of the “In Her Nature” series on PBS, highlights the work of Maholy Ravaloharimanitra, a Malagasy conservationist. She works with communities in Madagascar to survey, protect, and preserve greater bamboo lemur populations and habitat. 

A brief 22 minute feature, the documentary opens with picturesque images of lemurs peering out from trees in the Ambalafary Forest before focusing on Ravaloharimanitra’s community-centered approach to conservation. By helping Malagasy farmers learn principles of agroforestry, develop finance plans, and plan ahead for sufficient yields, Ravaloharimintara hopes to change community narratives around slash and burn agriculture. If you need an adorable lemur fix and an uplifting story to get you through a long week, this documentary is the perfect option for you. 

The Last Rhinos: A New Hope (Kenya)

Devastated by poaching and habitat loss, the last male white rhino died in 2018. Today, only two female Northern White Rhinos remain in the world. With the females functionally extinct and unable to carry a pregnancy to term, preservation efforts for the species relies on a team of scientists who are trying to use in vitro fertilization to preserve northern white rhinos via surrogacy. 

“The Last Rhinos: A New Hope,” directed by Katie Cleary, follows photographer Ami Vitale and a team of scientists and conservationists who work with the two surviving female rhinos at the Olj Pejeta conservancy in Kenya. This moving documentary chronicles the effort of the international BioRescue team to adapt cutting-edge reproductive technologies to the Northern White Rhino. 

The film offers a hopeful, and urgent, look at how far science and humans are willing to go to correct a conservation catastrophe before it’s too late. 

Burrowing Owls: A Love Story (North America)

The burrowing owl, a charismatic, long-legged bird that lives underground in abandoned prairie dog or ground squirrel burrows, is endangered in Canada and declining in the western United States, primarily due to habitat loss from development and agriculture. The number of breeding pairs continues to fall in Canada, where it’s estimated that only 270 breeding pairs remain. 

“Burrowing Owls: A Love Story,” directed by Alan Lacy, follows the remarkable work of owl biologist David H. Johnson, whose groundbreaking efforts (quite literally!) have helped restore this endangered bird to parts of its historic range, particularly in Oregon. At one site in Oregon, Johnson has dug over 182 artificial burrows to help preserve the owl’s breeding grounds. Interspersed with touching images of an owl family fighting to survive the loss of their grassland habitat, this short film will have any viewer ready to fight for our changing planet. 

Acting for All Species

These five documentaries reveal a powerful truth: the conservation challenges that species face are interconnected. Habitat loss, fragmentation, and human encroachment are global threats, but the solutions are often local, driven by community involvement, scientific innovation, and individual passion.

As EARTHDAY.ORG continues our mission to restore forests in Madagascar, for lemurs and other species, we are reminded that celebrating World Lemur Day on October 31st is about more than just a single animal; it’s a celebration of global biodiversity and the people fighting to protect it. 

The stories of resilience and hope captured in these films can inspire us all. Whether it’s through supporting organizations on the ground, advocating for sensible land policies, or educating ourselves and others, every action helps. 

Today, as extinction rates climb, consider supporting lemurs and other species by donating to the Canopy Tree Project and helping preserve the world’s forests. 

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Happy World Coffee Day! As an avid coffee drinker, my go-to coffee order is unfortunately pretty basic: just a large iced hazelnut latte. I try to carry my own reusable straws when I can, but I often forget. That means I’m usually reaching for a straw to accompany my drink. 

Globally, the straw market is still unfortunately dominated by plastic. In the United States, it’s estimated that 390 million straws are used every day. The global market for plastic straws is valued in the tens of billions of USD, with continued demand despite growing environmental awareness and regulatory bans in many regions. 

Plastic straws still dominate a large share of the straw market, but there is rapid growth in alternative sustainable materials like paper, bamboo, and bioplastic options. The latter option looks like a regular plastic straw, but closer inspection before you place it in your drink will reveal a different symbol on the wrapper. 

The new fall coffee shop trend is increasingly bioplastics. So what exactly are bioplastics? And what should you do with your plastic straws and cups after you have finished your delicious (autumnal) drink? 

What are Bioplastics? 

Unlike regular petroleum-based plastics, bioplastics describe an assortment of plastics that are either derived from renewable sources (biobased), are biodegradable, or both. Some (not all!) bioplastics are also compostable. Although all compostable products are *technically* biodegradable, there are some key differences between either classification. 

Biobased plastics have been around for a long time. The first human-made polymer, Parkesine, was invented by Alexander Parks in 1856 out of a mixture of chloroform and castor oil (ew). In 1941, Henry Ford presented the “soybean car” which used soy-based plastic body panels. Today, more industries are exploring bioplastics, and they are increasingly becoming an option for consumers. Whether it’s biodegradable packaging, mulching films for agriculture, or bioplastic straws, there’s a good chance that a bioplastic alternative to a popular oil-based plastic commodity exists. 

Are Bioplastics Better? 

The need for a plastic alternative is undeniable. According to Our World in Data, plastic production globally is estimated at over 450 million tons. Of that, 350 million tons are disposed of as plastic waste. This waste ends up in different places; the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) estimated in 2019 that only 9% of plastic waste is recycled, 19% is incinerated and about 50% goes to sanitary landfills. The remaining 22% is disposed of in unregulated dumps, burn-pits, or leached into the environment, often the ocean. This influx of plastics and their related additive chemicals causes not only significant environmental degradation and kills wildlife; it’s also associated with serious negative human health impacts. 

Compared to this, bioplastics have to be a better alternative, right? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t completely clear. It’s true that bioplastics (particularly biobased plastics) are less reliant on fossil fuels than traditional petroleum-based plastics, and bioplastics can result in smaller greenhouse gas emissions. However, bioplastics possess a range of different properties compared to petroleum plastics, which means a one-to-one switch isn’t always easy or even feasible. 

Additionally, bioplastic production can be costly and, depending on the industry, still result in greenhouse gas emissions. Finally, as Recycle Right NY notes, bioplastics advance a mentality that supports the erroneous belief that the convenience of single-use plastics can somehow be mitigated. This undermines the transformational change we need when it comes to plastic production and in how our world sees waste. If we want to end plastic pollution, we need to eradicate all single-use plastic products.

The Bioplastic Disposal Problem 

Bioplastic disposal is challenging since, depending on the type of bioplastic, existing recycling plants and waste infrastructure are often unable to process it. 

Only bioplastics that are made from chemically identical bio-based versions of regular plastic, specifically polyethylene terephthalate(PET), polyethylene (PE), and Polypropylene (PPP), can go into regular plastic recycling because their identical chemistry does not impact the recycling process. As of 2025, bio-based PET, PE, and PP plastics represent roughly 10-15% of the global bioplastics production volume. Other bioplastics with different chemical compositions, like polylactide (PLA) or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA), cannot be recycled with regular plastics because they contaminate the recycling stream. These bioplastics are usually incinerated or placed in a landfill. 

Misleading labels also make disposal confusing. Bioplastics labeled as biodegradable do not always break down in typical environments; many require specific conditions — such as controlled temperature, moisture, and microbial presence — to break down properly.  This means that in home composting or landfill settings, bioplastics may not decompose for a long time… just like conventional plastics.

Some biodegradable products might be certified as BPI compostable. This label comes from the Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI), a third party institute that sets the gold-standard for commercial composting. A BPI compostable certification means that the product has been verified to break down completely in a composting facility without harming the quality of the compost.

So how can you tell what kind of bioplastic you are using? Some manufacturers specify “bio-based PET,” “bio-based PE,” or “bio-based PP,” on their product’s label, which means the item is recyclable with conventional plastics. Similarly, BPI compostable plastics will have a small leaf symbol and should be placed in a dedicated bin for transport to an industrial composting facility. 

If a bioplastic product doesn’t bear these plastic identifiers or a BPI compostable certification, it should be treated as non-recyclable bioplastic and will likely have to go into the conventional trash bin. 

The Future of Bioplastics 

Bioplastics offer a potential alternative to traditional plastics, but only if our composting and recycling infrastructure can meet the disposal challenge. Ultimately, the solution to our plastic problem lies in reducing our consumption of single-use items, whether they are made of traditional plastic or bioplastic. Bioplastics can smooth this transition, but they cannot be a final solution. 

There’s never been a better time to find out more about plastic pollution and how you can help reduce your own waste. Think before you buy, do you really need this item or will you use it a few times and throw it in the trash? Reject fast fashion, give up single-use plastics for good, sign our plastic petition and next time you head to buy your morning brew or refreshing drink, ask yourself — do you really need a straw at all? 

On another pollution issue, you can further support our work by joining us as we try to stop pesticide producers being given free rein to poison the planet by writing to oppose Section 453 of the Interior Appropriations Bill. This would grant pesticide manufacturers broad legal immunity, even when their products cause harm.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is cleared for use. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

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On World Car-Free Day, the world is reminded to take a break from driving and explore their planet as pedestrians, bikers, and users of public transit. Event organizers hope that this will encourage more people to live a car-free lifestyle. 

But is car-free really the right choice for you?

Cars don’t emit that much…? 

In 2023, road transportation was responsible for 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions: a staggering 6.16 gigatons of carbon dioxide equivalent. In 2022, light-duty vehicles like passenger cars and trucks were responsible for an estimated 57% of emissions from the United States’ transportation sector. This means reducing vehicle use and adopting renewable fuel and transit alternatives directly alters emission statistics. 

So what would be the impact if you went car-free? Well, the United Nations estimates that relying on public transportation instead of personal vehicles can reduce up to 2.2 tons of carbon emissions annually per person. 

According to an online emissions calculator, that’s roughly the same amount of carbon that’s released when you burn over 2,000 pounds of coal. 

Obviously, no one wants to think of hopping in their car for a quick trip to the grocery store, restaurant, or favorite museum as equivalent to tossing a chunk of coal into a furnace, however, in terms of emissions, you’re in about the same spot. 

“But!” you cry, “I have to drive! I can’t get anywhere otherwise!” Maybe that’s true. Transit deserts, where the demand for public transportation is greater than supply, are a significant issue. But in areas where public transit is available, let’s explore what alternatives exist. 

Rail Systems: Germany

Roughly 22% of households in Germany do not own a private car, with rates higher among low-income households. This means accessible public transportation is essential. Germany has significantly invested in railway infrastructure, including the Alstom Coradia Ilinit line, the first hydrogen-powered passenger train. The train’s only byproduct is water and it doesn’t require electrified lines, making it an easy addition to existing non-electrified routes. 

Outside of hydrogen advancements, the German trail network succeeds because of the variety of lines available. Whether you need to get between domestic cities, back to your town or region, or commute within a city, the €58 monthly Deutschland-Ticket covers almost all forms of local public transport (including trams, buses, and subways) in Germany. With all of these options, it’s easy to see why 75% of German citizens report using public transport. 

Copenhagen’s Commitment to Bike Infrastructure 

Maybe bikes are more your speed… let’s hop on a high speed train out of Berlin’s Hauptbahnhof Station and check out how Germany’s neighbor to the north has ensured that 62% of trips to work or school occur by bike. Welcome to Copenhagen, Denmark! 

Ranked #1 in the world for cycling in 2019 by the Copenhagenize Index, a commute in Copenhagen likely looks different than what you’re used to. With an overwhelming number of commuters on two wheels instead of four, bike lines are a key part of the city’s infrastructure. Copenhagen boasts 546 kilometers (339 miles) of bike lanes and paths, including “cycle superhighways” or “supercykelstier” which connect suburban communities to the city center. 

Copenhagen’s commitment to bike infrastructure extends to traffic regulation. Starting in 2007, the city implemented green waves, a system of timed traffic lights that allows a continuous flow of cyclists, as well as an extensive bike-sharing program. These initiatives make cycling not just a viable alternative, but often more convenient than a personal vehicle. The success of Copenhagen’s model lies in its holistic approach; it’s not just about discouraging cars, but actively making other modes of transport more appealing, efficient, and safe.

Building a car-free or car-lite community isn’t about restriction and punishment; it’s about creating livable spaces. When communities prioritize pedestrians and cyclists, they become more connected. Streets once dominated by traffic become spaces for art, recreation, and community gatherings, as seen at the JFK Promenade in San Francisco or 34th Avenue in New York City.

Not Ready to Go Fully Car-Free? Consider an EV

Perhaps a completely car-free life is a step too far for your current circumstances. Maybe you live in a transit desert, or your commute just isn’t possible to do on a bike. In these cases, moving toward a car-free lifestyle might not be feasible, but reducing your carbon emissions through your vehicle choices is still possible. How? Electric vehicles (EVs) are a powerful way to mitigate the environmental impact of driving.

While the production of EVs does have  its own environmental costs, their lifecycle emissions are significantly lower than those of traditional gasoline-powered cars.The shift to EVs also reduces our reliance on fossil fuels, a critical step in the fight against climate change. 

Cities are increasingly supporting this transition with investments in charging infrastructure and incentives for EV ownership. New technologies and a growing market mean that EVs are becoming an increasingly affordable option for many. 

The Future of Transportation is Now

Ultimately, whether you choose to go completely car-free, adopt an EV, or simply use public transit more often, every decision matters. Germany and Denmark, with their robust rail networks and cycling cultures, show us that large-scale change is possible when it is supported by thoughtful policy, infrastructure investment, and a collective vision.The journey to a sustainable future begins with a single step… or perhaps a single pedal. If you back dumping fossil fuels and supporting the growth of clean energy in transport and every other conceivable way, please sign our petition –  to call on world leaders to commit to renewable energy. It’s never been needed more.

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In these trying times for the environmental movement, it can sometimes feel impossible to find the (solar-powered) light. However, on September 16th for International Day of Preservation of the Ozone Layer (or World Ozone Day), we remember one of the world’s greatest environmental victories — the Montreal Protocol, 

Adopted 38 years ago today, this landmark agreement regulates the production and use of man-made chemicals known as ozone depleting substances (ODS), such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), after scientists found a correlation between their release into the atmosphere and ozone layer decay. The ozone layer is the Earth’s natural protective shield against intense ultraviolet radiation from the sun. 

This global response stands as a testament to genuine international cooperation, one that was driven by science, guided by a willingness to set aside national interests for the greater good, and grounded in a shared commitment to a brighter future. In honor of this spirit of scientific discovery and global collaboration, here are three times we’ve joined together for much needed environmental action. 

#1 The Montreal Protocol (1987)

In 1985, scientists released a report detailing a significant hole in the stratospheric ozone layer that allowed dangerous ultraviolet radiation (UVB) to reach the Earth’s surface. The depletion of the ozone layer would lead to serious consequences for both the environment and human health. UVB rays are considered to cause non-melanoma skin cancers and are associated with the development of malignant melanoma. UVB radiation also reduces agricultural yields and disrupts marine life. Repairing the hole required global action.

After two years of debate, negotiation, and compromise, the international community came together, proving that humanity can — despite political and cultural divisions — unite to solve pressing environmental problems. The result was the 1987 Montreal Protocol, a landmark international agreement where parties agreed to regulate nearly 100 ozone-depleting substances. 

The ozone repair process was gradual but decisive, driven by a universal recognition of the ozone hole as an existential threat. Phase-out of ozone-depleting substances happened progressively, with different targets for developed and developing countries. As new scientific data on ODS emerged, nations came together to adjust targets, agreeing to accelerate the phase-out of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) which have a global warming potential 2000 times greater than carbon dioxide. 

The protocol has been astonishingly successful. The 2022 UN Scientific Assessment Report on Ozone found that ozone levels are estimated to return to 1980 levels at around 2066 in the Antarctic, around 2045 in the Arctic, and around 2040 globally. Additionally, the report found that measures taken to reduce ozone-depleting substances have simultaneously helped prevent an extreme global warming scenario of an estimated 0.5 – 1 °C by mid-century which could have occurred if ODS emission rates increased uncontrollably beyond 1980 levels. 

Today, the healing of the ozone layer serves as a beacon of hope. It demonstrates the potential for collective action to address even the most daunting environmental challenges as long as we maintain a unified front.

#2 Acid Rain (1990-1999)

Acid rain sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, but it was a very real problem for the lakes, streams, forests, and wildlife across the northeastern United States and much of Europe from the 1950s through the 1980s. 

When power plants, vehicles, and factories release sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides into the air, these pollutants react with water vapor to form acidic compounds which make acid rain. This acid rain lowers the pH of lakes, rivers, and soils, creating highly acidic conditions that are harmful to aquatic life: fish eggs often fail to hatch below pH 5 aquatic insects can die from acid exposure, and plants essential to food chains may decline . 

In soils, acid rain leaches important nutrients, like calcium and magnesium, and releases toxic aluminum, harming trees and plants. Trees at higher altitudes may also be damaged by acidic clouds and fog which strip nutrients from leaves and needles, weakening them against disease, pests, and cold weather. 

In the United States, acid rain gained national attention after a senior research associate in the Department of Natural Resources, Carl Schofield, reported the presence of acidic cold water lakes making them uninhabitable in the Adirondack region of northeastern New York State, in the U.S. 

Scientists quickly realized that emissions from fossil-fuel-burning power plants in the midwestern United States and regional wind currents were responsible for the phenomenon. In response to growing concerns, the United States’ government passed amendments to the Clean Air Act in 1990, establishing the Acid Rain Program, which created an innovative emissions trading system (cap-and-trade). 

This program set strict limits on sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxide emissions from power plants and allowed them to buy and sell emissions allowances, incentivizing cost-effective reductions. This market-based approach was groundbreaking and led to significant reductions in acid-rain-causing pollutants in the following decades.

The act effectively eliminated the threat of acid rain in the United States, proving that science and policy can go hand-in-hand. In 2022, the EPA Long Term Monitoring program (LTM) examined wet sulfate deposition, a form of acid rain. It is a common indicator of acid rain, and compared deposition from 2021-2022 with data from 1989-1999. Scientists found an encouraging over 70% decrease in sulfate levels. 

In 1999, this can-do attitude went international when the United Nations amended the Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air-Pollution (LRTAP) to include the Gothenburg Protocol, making it the first international agreement to adopt a multi-pollutant approach  and recognize the combined impact of various air pollutants. Today, more than 51 countries have joined the convention and are committed to keeping the air we breathe and the water we drink clean.

# 3 The Convention on Biological Diversity (1992)

Today, it’s easy to go online to visit national government websites or the Red List and see a (slightly terrifying) list of endangered species. But, those resources weren’t always available. It wasn’t until 1964 that the first list of rare and threatened species was published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. The original list included 204 mammals and 312 birds. It created an international base-line for at risk species and helped spark global conservation efforts. 

A cornerstone of those efforts is the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Adopted at the 1992 Rio Earth Summit, the Convention on Biological Diversity, grew from the understanding that biological diversity is an asset for current and future generations. Since then,196 nations have ratified the convention, and parties continue to meet biennially to adjust targets and set new goals. 

One of those goals is the expansion of protected areas worldwide. Target 11 from the  2010 Aichi Biodiversity Targets aimed to protect at least 17% of terrestrial and inland water areas and 10% of coastal and marine areas by 2020. While the marine goal was not fully met, the terrestrial target was, with the 2024 Protected Planet Report sharing that 17.6% of the world’s land is now under some form of protection. 

Building on this progress, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF),  incorporated under the CBD in 2022, set an even more ambitious “30×30″ target to conserve 30% of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. Progress so far has been slow, but financially, the convention is on firm footing for future growth. In June, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) — the financial mechanism for the CBD and other international treaties — committed more than $261 million in funding for various environmental projects. 

How You Can Use Your Voice to Protect the Planet? 

There’s always more work to be done, but these successes show that progress is always possible. When we trust science, look ahead to future generations, and are unafraid to set ambitious targets, change happens. With a strong history of environmental action to stand on, let’s keep moving forward to tackle the climate crisis. 

Sign our Renewable Energy Petition today to demand that global leaders commit to renewable energy investments, phase out fossil fuels, and stick to the goals established by the Paris Climate Agreement. Plus join us at EARTHDAY.ORG in standing up for the Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA faces attacks that could weaken protections for clean air and safe drinking water, putting our communities and future generations at risk. If you are in the U.S., we need your voice. Add your name to our public comments on the EPA’s intentions to gut the agency’s ability to regulate pollution due to climate change, also known as the Endangerment Finding.

This article is available for republishing on your website, newsletter, magazine, newspaper, or blog. The accompanying imagery is also cleared for use. Please ensure that the author’s name and their affiliation with EARTHDAY.ORG are credited. Kindly inform us if you republish so we can acknowledge, tag, or repost your content. You may notify us via email at davies@earthday.org or fielder@earthday.org. Want more articles? Follow us on substack.

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