Dear Dot is here to answer all your sustainable living questions from her perch on the porch. Got a question for Dot? Send her a note for a chance to be featured in an upcoming post.
Dear Dot,
I’m a Harvard alum and a recent article in the Gazette indicated that organic food is no better than conventionally grown. What say you, Dot?
–David
The Short Answer: There are many factors that determine if organic...
Dear Dot,
I recently received a card that’s printed on “seed” paper — that paper that has wildflower seeds embedded in it that we, presumably, should plant. But with all the talk about planting native species,...
Dear Dot, I saw the most amazing sunset last night. Someone told me the beautiful red color is because of pollution? Is there any truth to that?
—Whitney
The Short Answer: Those vibrant colors we see at...
Dear Dot,
While there are things I love about the holidays, the rampant consumerism depresses me. But friends and family still expect me to give them something. Any suggestions?
—Steph
The Short Answer: There are many ways to...
I’m a realtor curious about how climate change is going to impact where people will want to live. What are some climate change concerns people should be considering before committing to a next home/next location?
–Karen
Dear...
Dear Dot,
Does Dot know anything about responsible investing for 401(k) plans? I was looking at mine last night and realized I have an aggressive portfolio and know nothing about the companies.
—Ali
Dear Ali,
While Dot tends to...
Dear Dot,
I’ve heard that bike transit could really help fight climate change but New York City sometimes feels very anti-bike (and dangerous!). Why aren’t cities embracing bicycle infrastructure?
–Kyle, Brooklyn
The short answer: While more cities are...
Dear Dot,
If I'm in a public bathroom and I have a choice between paper towels and an electric hand dryer, which should I choose? I imagine it depends a lot on whether those towels are...
Dear Dot,
I’m moving and downsizing. It seems I can’t even give away my family’s 1880s square piano. No one I’ve contacted even wants it to repurpose the exquisite wood. I contacted Big Reuse and they...
Professional bird photographer Heather Wolf, author of “Birding at the Bridge,” has taken many great bird photos featured in “Brooklyn Bird Watch.” These birds are not necessarily...
Many climate-friendly projects, like solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, pay for themselves pretty quickly over time. Yet despite this good rate of return, getting...
If you’ve ever needed a reason to do something good for the Earth, let Earth Month be your reason. Here is a list of good ways to celebrate and care for our blue dot.
As farmers begin to plant their crops, we begin CSA signup season. CSAs or Community-Supported Agriculture, are essentially produce subscription boxes directly from your...
