A graph shows the average annual temperature in Central Park, NY, plotted from 1869 to 2025. A trendline for this data and notations on the graph shows that the typical average temperature has increased by around 4.6°F (from 51.7°F to 56.3°F). In Celsius this corresponds to a jump of 2.6°C (from 10.9°C to 13.5°C).

NYC temperature records: A scientific (not Fox-y) perspective

A meteorologist on the Fox Weather Channel showed a chart of record temperatures in New York’s Central Park. He drew attention to the fact that the record high was set all the way back in 1936 and commented that we need to put all of this talk of climate change in perspective. Let’s do just that! Continue reading NYC temperature records: A scientific (not Fox-y) perspective

A powerpoint-type slide shows three circles containing the words competence, relatedness, and autonomy. Underneath is the message: SDT's three basic psychological needs. (SDT = Self-determination theory). Graphic from a keynote talk by Richard M. Ryan

Self-determination theory and ethical consumption

In this post we’ll take a look at a psychological concept closely linked to eudaimonic happiness: Self-determination theory. Self-determination theory maintains that our three core psychological needs are competence, autonomy, and relatedness. Practicing ethical consumption can help us meet these needs. Continue reading Self-determination theory and ethical consumption

A graph published by researchers at the University of Washington shows various population growth predictions. The graph shows global human population growth from 1990 to 2100, predicted according to how fast we meet UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Meeting SDG targets for education and contraceptives by 2030 could lead to a lower global population of 6.3 billion in 2100. See main text for more detail.

How big is the human population likely to get?

Human population growth drives a lot of fears and misguided decisions. This largely comes down to a scarcity mentality: we have a growing population and limited resources to sustain them. There is a clear win-win scenario but far-right regimes can’t bring themselves to recognize it. The following is an excerpt from my almost-complete book, Climactic: A Consumer’s Guide to Saving the Planet, for which I’m currently seeking a publisher. Continue reading How big is the human population likely to get?

A screenshot of a book title and subtitle. In large font is the word Climactic. This word is in blue except for the letters "act" which are colored green. Underneath is the subtitle, A Consumer's Guide to Saving the Planet. Currently seeking agent and publisher for this book.

Climactic: seeking publisher/agent for ethical consumption guide

I’m seeking a publisher or agent for my book, Climactic: A Consumer’s Guide to Saving the Planet. I’ll share a brief description and chapter list here, followed by an excerpt, next week. If you are interested in publishing or representing this book please contact me to receive a book proposal. Continue reading Climactic: seeking publisher/agent for ethical consumption guide

A graphic of 5 Green Stars is shown, with various protein-rich foods marked in at various points, representing an ethical rating for them. In order from lowest to highest, they are: Beef & Lamb, Chicken & Pork, Cheese, Fish, Eggs, Nuts, Whole Grains, and Lentils.

Sustainable Food: Ethical ratings for different protein sources

What’s the most ethical protein, brah? Last week I published a graphic showing different kinds of butter, dairy and non-dairy, ranked from 0 to 5 Green Stars. Following up on that, here’s a graphic showing ethical scores for various sources of protein in our diets. Continue reading Sustainable Food: Ethical ratings for different protein sources

A graphic shows a range pf ethical ratings for various kinds of butter, ranging from 0 to 5 Green Stars. Butter from dairy cows score between 0 and 2 Green Stars. Butter from intensive dairies scores 0 Green Stars while butter from pasture-raised cows may score up to 2 Green Stars. Good plant-based butters (palm oil free) such as Naturli' and Miyoko's receive high scores of 4.5 and 5 Green Stars, respectively.

Butter: I can’t believe it’s not ethical!

I’m sharing a post from Ethical Bargains that evaluated Ivy’s Reserve carbon-neutral butter. UK-based Wyke Farms launched this butter in 2023, a year after releasing “the world’s first carbon neutral cheddar.” In the end, I scored Ivy’s Reserve butter 2/5 Green Stars for social and environmental impact and at the same time realized that this is close to the maximum score that I’d give a dairy-based butter product. Is this fair? Continue reading Butter: I can’t believe it’s not ethical!