Articles by Ask Umbra®
The New York Times calls Umbra Fisk "a trailblazer in the field of eco-advice columnists" and "the arch online sage of the new green age." Her latest passion: kale smoothies ... no, sorry, civic engagement, because getting political is the only way we'll get a planet that doesn't burn and a future that doesn't suck. Ask Umbra a question here.
All Articles
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![Hand sanitizer]()
![Hand sanitizer]()
In times of drought, should I use hand sanitizer instead of washing my hands?
Choosing hand sanitizers over the old scrub-and-rinse may conserve water, but it might not banish germs, either. Umbra digs up the dirt.
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![Shirt made of bark]()
![Shirt made of bark]()
Should I feel good about choosing clothes made from wood?
Cloth fiber from trees! Sounds like a good deal for the planet -- and it can be, says Umbra. But there's a few "gotchas" to consider.
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![Electric kettle and a cuppa]()
![Electric kettle and a cuppa]()
What’s the best way to heat things up at home?
We’re talking about water molecules, of course. Umbra gets into hot water.
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![Water]()
![Water]()
I’m off the water grid, so do I still need to take short showers?
If you're living off the water-system grid, do you still need to worry about conservation? Umbra dowses for answers.
