Dear EarthTalk: I’m “pro-solar” all the way for the sake of the environment, but solar power has not historically been very cost-effective. What innovations are coming down the pike that will bring costs down to make solar competitive with other energy sources?
EarthTalk (From the Editors of E/The Environmental Magazine)
Dear EarthTalk: What exactly does “not tested on animals” mean on a product, like a shampoo? Where can I find products that are completely not tested on animals and are also eco-friendly?
- James Masarech, via e-mail
Many consumer products go through precise testing to make sure they are safe and healthy for people and the environment before they are made available in the marketplace. The downside is that many of these tests make use of live animals.
EARTH TALK (From the Editors of E/The Environmental Magazine)
Dear EarthTalk: Is it true that driving with soft tires wastes energy and results in more pollution?
- Nanci Graham, via e-mail
When tires are not inflated to the pounds per square inch (PSI) rating recommended by manufacturers, they are less “round” and require more energy to begin moving and to maintain speed. As such, under-inflated tires do indeed contribute to pollution and increase fuel costs.
The Voice features a Q & A column called Earth Talk, from E/The Environmental Magazine. Here's a recent submission.
There are many examples of climate change’s real and present impact. For one, the 20 hottest years since record keeping began in the 1880s have all occurred since 1983, and until this year 2005 was the hottest year ever. Now, according to a new U.S. climate report, 2006 is well on its way to taking the top spot.
Dear EarthTalk: Is it true that nothing really “biodegrades” in a landfill?
— Laura, via e-mail
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