Ask Umbra
Grist’s destination for advice on life during climate change. Est. 2002
Past Umbra
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Is my long-distance relationship worth the gas mileage?
Leading a climate-conscious life often means choosing among lackluster options. Dating doesn't have to be the same.
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![An illustration of (from left to right) a cotton bud, a sewing machine sewing jeans, a stack of jeans with a price tag, a pair of hands holding up jeans, and a garbage can with jeans hanging out of them.]()
![An illustration of (from left to right) a cotton bud, a sewing machine sewing jeans, a stack of jeans with a price tag, a pair of hands holding up jeans, and a garbage can with jeans hanging out of them.]()
Should wasteful purchases cost more?
Whoever made the mess should pay to clean it up. But who is actually responsible?
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What is a billionaire’s role in saving the planet?
Does all this money represent pure generosity, or compensation for wrongs done?
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![An illustration representing a]()
![An illustration representing a]()
How can I make sure my used stuff goes to those who need it most?
It can be tricky to navigate the free-for-all chaos of a Buy Nothing group.
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What can I do to bring the Green New Deal to life?
Where do I send the check, for starters?
