April 2025 Issue

Theme: People, Planet & Purpose

Green Profiles - Charlotte Area Eco-Friendly Businesses/Orgs

Discover local businesses/orgs working hard to protect the environment. CLICK HERE for more information. 

Feature Story – Benefits of a Circular Economy

A circular economy keeps materials in use, mimicking nature’s balance. It supports sustainability, jobs, and resource conservation. Consumers and businesses play roles by reducing waste, reusing materials, and making mindful purchases. Recycling alone isn’t enough—refusing, repairing, and repurposing are key. Responsible production, composting, and ethical investments further enhance circularity’s impact.

CE – How To Feed the Good Microbes (+ recipes)

HW – Relief for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia causes widespread pain, fatigue, and cognitive issues, affecting millions. It may stem from an overactive nervous system, inflammation, or infections. Stress management, gut health, and vagus nerve stimulation can help. Low-dose naltrexone shows promise, while new treatments focus on personalized, integrative approaches to improve quality of life and reduce pain.

HK – Cooking with Kids

Cooking with kids builds life skills, strengthens family bonds, and promotes healthy eating. It teaches hygiene, measuring, fine motor skills, and time management. Engaging them early fosters confidence and appreciation for food. Fun, simple recipes like veggie wraps, parfaits, and mini pizzas make learning enjoyable while encouraging lifelong healthy habits.

GL – Clean and Renewable Energy Advances

Renewable energy advancements, including tandem solar cells, floating panels, and transparent photovoltaics, are transforming energy production. Wind innovations, biodegradable turbine blades, and AI-driven optimization further enhance sustainability. Challenges like energy storage, grid modernization, and public acceptance remain, but ongoing progress brings a green, efficient future within reach.

FB – Move More to Greater Health and Energy

April’s Move More Month, promoted by the AHA, encourages daily movement to combat inactivity and heart disease. Exercise options range from dance and yoga to team sports and daily walks. Small steps, like stretching and using fitness trackers, help build consistency. Community support fosters motivation, making movement joyful and sustainable.

NP – Treating Urinary Infections in Cats

A balanced diet is key to preventing feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD), which causes pain and blockages. Moisture-rich homemade food supports hydration and bladder health. Natural remedies like cranberry extract and omega-3s help prevent infections. Proper hydration, stress reduction, and litter box maintenance are essential for urinary health.

WW – Leslie Davenport on Resiliency and Creative Action in the Face of Climate Change

Leslie Davenport, a climate psychology pioneer, helps individuals manage eco-anxiety through emotional resiliency. She advocates acknowledging climate emotions, engaging in solutions, and practicing mindfulness. Her Climate Emotions Wheel fosters awareness, while positivity strategies like nature appreciation and gratitude counteract negativity bias, promoting balance and motivation for climate action.

INSPIRATION – Making Time To Marvel

Nature offers wisdom, awe, and solace, reminding us to pause and reconnect. Amid distractions, we must rediscover humility in its beauty, fostering appreciation in ourselves and future generations.

Eco Tip – Why Native Plants Are Better

Gardening with native plants supports wildlife, conserves water, prevents erosion, and reduces maintenance. These plants thrive in local conditions, enhancing biodiversity and resilience while lowering costs. Native landscaping creates beautiful, eco-friendly spaces, benefiting pollinators and ecosystems. Transforming lawns into native habitats strengthens the environment and promotes sustainable, low-maintenance gardening.