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
-
![]()
![]()
Ask Umbra: Should I buy a refurbished laptop for college?
A reader asks if it does the planet any good to buy a used computer rather than a new one. Umbra takes a byte out of the question.
-
![]()
![]()
Ask Umbra: Is my air conditioner wasting energy?
A reader wonders if her air conditioner's energy saver option really makes a difference. Umbra is cool to the idea.
-
![]()
![]()
Ask Umbra: Who doesn’t celebrate the Fourth of July with rats and dandruff?
Readers launch a volley of questions at our green advice columnist. She responds with a veritable anthem of eco-smarts.
-
![]()
![]()
Ask Umbra: What’s up with those ‘DO NOT EAT’ packets in shoeboxes and pill bottles?
A reader wonders what to do with those silica gel packs that come with vitamins and shoes. Umbra offers her a chill pill.
