Lifestyle
Going Green in Your Community
Community Efforts
(Family Features) Preserving your community for future generations can take many forms. It might mean volunteering with local organizations and participating in community improvement initiatives. Taking steps to protect the environment is another critical way to ensure your community remains safe and livable for generations to come.
These ideas show that going green can be as simple as making small modifications to everyday actions you already take.
Donating Unwanted Goods
Landfills are overflowing with items that still have plenty of useful life. Often, those discarded items could be repurposed to provide an affordable option to those who can’t afford new, full-price versions. Before loading up your trash can, consider donating things like household goods and clothing that could still serve a purpose. Numerous organizations accept gently used goods that they either distribute directly to those in need or sell to the general public, with proceeds benefiting a specific cause or population. Look into the options in your area to find the best fit for items you have that can be donated.
Rethinking Transportation
Pollution from transportation accounts for 29% of the United States’ emissions, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). That’s a higher percentage than any other category measured by the EPA. Carpooling, public transportation and even carefully planning your route are ways you can take personal accountability to help reduce the problem.
Another way to improve transportation emissions is by talking to your school district about its school bus choices. Diesel school buses are not only expensive to operate, but they are harmful to children’s health, the community and the climate, according to data compiled by the Propane Education & Research Council. Conversely, propane reduces harmful emissions that impact student health and air quality in the community. By advocating for your district to convert to a more environmentally friendly transportation option, such as propane, you can help further reduce harmful emissions in your community.
Find more information about propane-powered buses at BetterOurBuses.com.
Recycling and Composting
Another way to reduce landfill waste is recycling and composting. Many of the items you throw away can be recycled into all-new materials. For example, recycled plastic can be used in a wide range of products, from sleeping bags and backpacks to dishes and reusable water bottles. Food waste represents a large share of landfills, too. Eventually it will biodegrade, but composting what you can at home gives you nutrient-rich material you can use to support your garden or lawn with healthier soil and less need for pesticides.
Cleaning with Natural Products
Keeping your home clean takes more than a little elbow grease, but the harsh chemicals found in many household cleaners are actually quite damaging. The chemicals can be poisonous or contain allergens that negatively impact your home’s air quality. Natural cleaners are often more cost-efficient, so you can enjoy cleaner air and minimize your impact on the environment.
Taking Advantage of Natural Light
If you’re in the habit of flipping on a light switch as you walk in a room, next time pause and consider whether you really need additional light. During daylight hours, many rooms offer more than enough natural light. Sunlight can also help warm spaces naturally when it’s cool outdoors, so throw open the curtains and let those warm, bright rays shine. If you do need additional light, consider relying on task lighting to illuminate your project rather than an overhead light that consumes more electricity.
Benefits of Propane School Buses
Over the last several decades, there have been many advances in student transportation. However, one area that could still use improvement is the number of students who ride to school on diesel buses that pollute the air. Today, there are two meaningful energy choices for clean student transportation: propane and electric. While both can achieve clean transportation, propane buses cost one-third the price of electric, allowing districts to replace their aging diesel fleet faster.
As an affordable, available and clean energy source, propane buses make practical sense. The buses reduce harmful emissions by 96% compared to diesel. They can also meet school districts’ needs with a range of up to 400 miles and the resiliency to continue operating across all terrains and in any weather. In fact, more than 1,000 school districts have already made the switch. Every day, 1.3 million children ride to school in 22,000 propane school buses across the country.
In 2022, the EPA introduced the Clean School Bus Program, which provides $5 billion over five years (2022-26) to replace existing diesel school buses with zero-emission and low-emission models.
Through three rounds of funding, the EPA program has allocated more than $2.8 billion for 8,427 electric school buses and 440 low-emissions propane buses. However, for the same amount of money that was distributed for the electric buses (about $2.77 billion), the program could have helped fund as many as 92,635 propane buses, assuming each propane bus received the $30,000 incentive.
When considering full lifecycle emissions, replacing 92,635 diesel buses with propane buses would have reduced harmful nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by 24,664 metric tons over the three years the program has funded buses. By comparison, replacing just 8,427 diesel buses with electric buses will reduce NOx emissions by just 2,379 metric tons over the three years.
SOURCE:
Propane Education & Research Council
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
pets
Understanding Winter Pet Health Risks
Pet Health: Winter poses health risks to dogs, including frostbite and hypothermia. Pet owners should limit exposure, provide adequate shelter, adjust diets, and ensure safe indoor environments to maintain their pets’ well-being.
Last Updated on February 21, 2026 by Daily News Staff
(Family Features) While some dogs prefer to be outdoors regardless of the weather, the cold and often snowy and icy conditions winter brings can pose serious threats to their health.
Much like the well-publicized challenges of keeping your four-legged family members healthy during the warmer weather, it’s important for pet owners to be aware of the unique threats that can arise during colder conditions.
Recognizing Cold Weather Hazards
Winter weather can pose various hazards to pets, including frostbite and hypothermia. Dogs left outside for extended periods, particularly those with short coats or pre-existing health conditions, are at greater risk. It’s essential to limit exposure to extreme cold, provide adequate shelter and recognize the symptoms of winter-related illnesses.
Signs of hypothermia include shivering, lethargy and pale gums. Frostbite may present as discolored, cold skin, particularly on extremities like ears, paws and tails.
Protecting Your Pet’s Skin and Paws in Winter
Cold, dry air can cause pets’ skin to become dry and flaky. Regular grooming and moisturizing can help maintain their skin’s health. Consider using pet-safe moisturizers and avoid bathing them too frequently, as it can strip natural oils.
Additionally, be cautious of salt and de-icing chemicals, which can irritate dogs’ paws and skin. Protect their paws by using booties or applying a pet-safe balm to help prevent cracks and irritation caused by ice, salt and cold surfaces. If not covering paws, always clean them after walks to check for any signs of injury or discomfort and consider using pet-safe ice melters.
Adjusting Diets for Winter
During the winter months, dogs may require a different diet to maintain their energy levels and body heat. Consult with your veterinarian about adjusting your four-legged friend’s food intake, especially if his or her activity level changes. Monitor your pet’s weight and adjust feeding portions as needed to prevent obesity or malnutrition.
Also ensure your pet has access to fresh water, as dehydration can still occur in cold weather. In fact, warm water may encourage pets to drink more.
Keeping Pets Safe Indoors
If your winter pet safety plan includes keeping your dog indoors more often, ensure you provide him or her a warm and comfortable place to rest. Avoid placing your pet’s bed near drafty windows or doors, cold tile floors or uninsulated areas.
Also be mindful of potential hazards such as space heaters, fireplaces, holiday decorations and chemicals such as antifreeze, which is toxic to dogs. Keep them out of reach to prevent burns or accidental ingestion.
If you notice any unusual behavior or symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately. Early intervention can prevent severe complications and ensure your furry friend remains healthy throughout the winter months. Find more tips to help keep your pets happy and healthy all year long at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
eLivingtoday.com
Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.
Author
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
Lifestyle
How to Practice Thoughtful Grief Etiquette Online
Grief experts advise caution in sharing condolences and loss-related information on social media, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the grieving family’s needs. Thoughtful posting practices include waiting for family approval, reaching out privately first, and avoiding speculation about the cause of death. Compassionate communication is essential in these sensitive situations.
(Feature Impact) News of a death can spread online in seconds – often before families have notified close family members privately. That’s why grief experts urge people to rethink how they share condolences, tributes and loss-related information on social media, particularly during the winter months when grief can feel especially isolating.
“Grief etiquette is about putting the needs of the grieving family first, not our urge to say something publicly,” said Dr. Camelia L. Clarke, National Funeral Directors Association (NFDA) spokesperson, funeral director and grief educator with nearly 30 years of experience. “Just because information can be shared instantly doesn’t mean it should be.”
Social media has become a common place for sharing condolences, tributes and memories. However, grief experts caution that, without thoughtful consideration, online posts can unintentionally cause harm. Knowing when to post, what to say and when to remain silent can make a meaningful difference for families experiencing loss.
Consider this advice from the experts at the NFDA.
Grief Etiquette in the Digital Age
Grief etiquette refers to the unspoken guidelines for how individuals acknowledge death, loss and mourning, particularly online.
According to Clarke, one of the most important principles is restraint.
“When a death is shared online too quickly, families can feel exposed and overwhelmed at a moment when they’re still processing the loss themselves,” she said. “Waiting is an act of compassion.”
Best Practices for Posting About Loss Online
As social media continues to play a role in modern mourning, grief professionals encourage users to pause before posting and consider a few key guidelines:
- Let the family lead. Don’t post about a death until the immediate family has made it public.
- Ask permission. Obtain consent before sharing photos, stories or tributes.
- Reach out privately first. A direct message, call or handwritten note can be more meaningful than a public comment.
- Avoid speculation. Don’t ask about or share details regarding the cause of death.
- Offer ongoing support. Grief extends far beyond the first days or weeks after a loss.
What to Say (and Avoid)
When expressing condolences online, experts recommend simplicity, sincerity and sensitivity. Messages that acknowledge loss without attempting to explain or minimize it are often the most supportive.
Helpful phrases include:
- “I’m sorry for your loss.”
- “Thinking of you and your family.”
- “I’m here if you want to talk or need anything.”
By contrast, well-meaning cliches can unintentionally cause harm. Phrases such as “They’re in a better place” or “Everything happens for a reason” may reflect the speaker’s beliefs, but they can feel dismissive to someone grieving.
“Grieving people don’t need answers – they need presence,” Clarke said. “Listening matters more than saying the perfect thing.”
Resources for Families and Friends
As digital spaces continue to shape how people communicate during life’s most difficult moments, experts agree empathy, patience and respect remain timeless.
“Grief is deeply personal,” Clarke said. “When we slow down and lead with compassion, we honor both the person who has died and those who are left to grieve.”
To learn more about how to support a grieving person and access free, expert-reviewed resources for navigating grief, expressing condolences and supporting loved ones before, during and after a loss, visit RememberingALife.com, an initiative of the NFDA.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
<img src="https://ssl.google-analytics.com/collect?v=1&tid=UA-482330-7&cid=1955551e-1975-5e52-0cdb-8516071094cd&sc=start&t=pageview&dl=http%3A%2F%2Ftrack.familyfeatures.com%2F17832%2F10240&dt=HOW-TO-PRACTICE-THOUGHTFUL-GRIEF-ETIQUETTE-ONLINE" />
<img src="https://erp.featureimpact.com/api/v1/tracking/17832/10240/track.gif" />SOURCE:
National Funeral Directors Association
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
home gardening
A Guide to Growing Thriving Plants Indoors
This guide provides essential tips for successfully growing indoor plants. Key points include selecting plants suited to light conditions, ensuring proper watering and soil quality, using adequate pots, and nurturing plants with appropriate fertilizers during their active growth season. Following these steps can create a thriving indoor garden.
A Guide to Growing Thriving Plants Indoors
(Feature Impact) Lush greenery can add a sense of calm to many homes and bringing it indoors can help transform nearly any room into a relaxing oasis.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just beginning your indoor gardening journey, this guide can help you get started – and succeed in – growing healthy plants indoors.
Choose the Right Plants
Not all houseplants are created equal, and the first step toward a flourishing indoor garden is picking plants that align with your home’s conditions. If your home has several bright and sunny rooms, light-loving varieties will likely thrive. For shadier spots, look for low-light tolerant plants, which are often easier to care for and more forgiving.
Provide Adequate Light
Most houseplants prefer bright, indirect light – that soft glow when positioned just inside a window (and turned regularly for even light). However, some can tolerate lower light levels. If natural sunlight is limited where you live, consider grow lights that mimic the sun’s spectrum and help plants keep their color and strong growth without plenty of daylight.
Avoid Overwatering
Too much water can lead to root rot and is one of the most common mistakes even the most experienced gardeners make. Rather than watering on a strict schedule, check the soil first. If the top inch is dry, it’s usually time to give your plant a drink. Add warm or room-temperature water until you see moisture come out of the pot’s drainage holes then let the soil dry before watering again.
Consider the Soil, Pot and Growth Space
Use a high-quality potting mix designed for indoor plants along with pots featuring proper drainage. If you prefer decorative planters without holes, consider placing your plant in a smaller pot inside the decorative one to ensure proper drainage. As plants grow, they may need repotted to give their roots room to spread and continue healthy growth.
Nourish During the Growing Season
Plants use more nutrients in spring and summer, so feed them with a balanced, diluted fertilizer every 4-6 weeks during active months. In fall and winter, most indoor plants grow more slowly and need less feeding. Also remember to regularly prune dead or yellowing leaves to help plants focus on new growth.
Find more tips and guidance to help your indoor plants thrive at eLivingtoday.com.
Photo courtesy of Shutterstock
SOURCE:
Discover more from Daily News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
