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.

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Are solar compactors actually good for the earth?

They're popping up in greener cities everywhere -- those solar-powered public trash cans. But do they actually make a difference? Umbra has the answer.

Ask Umbra® Technology
Should I be drinking local or sustainable beer?

Which to buy -- beer that's made close by or suds brewed with green energy but then shipped cross-country? Umbra cuts through the foam.

Ask Umbra® Culture
Can I eat urban-grown produce without getting poisoned?

A reader wants to know whether fruit grown in public parks and city land ends up contaminated with all the crud in urban soil. Umbra's got the answer.

Ask Umbra® Culture
Is grass-fed beef better in a drought?

How do you sort out the environmental impact of grass-fed vs. grain-fed beef in a drought? Umbra's got your back (and your flank).

Ask Umbra® Culture