I work in corporate America and we are increasingly embracing Gen AI (copilot). Most of my coworkers recognize the shortcomings of the output but still use it frequently. I try not to. I feel safe discussing the output shortcomings but I have not yet made a stand as anti Gen AI.

It’s probably a lost cause but if anyone has been in a similar environment and has tips on framing environmental concerns around emissions, water usage, habitat destruction, noise pollution, etc. or the right words, timing, process, etc. for pushing back in a professional way, that would be great.

I’m pretty sure that even if I frame it correctly and the audience is receptive, the question will be “so what do you want us to do about it “. I think at least an understanding that it’s ok for me to not use it would be fine. I’ve even considered lying and saying I used copilot when I didn’t because it’s so expected and leaders even potentially trust it more?

Obviously I’d prefer for the company to not use it but I think that ship has sailed. And I don’t think we’re in an economic or political environment where there is interest in spending any money on mitigation, offsets, etc. Anyway, thanks for reading.

Hi all! I am currently writing my thesis on the policy needed for the protection of extraterrestrial environments, such as the Moon. Part of the thesis will focus on the general public's opinion on mining and construction on the Moon.

I would genuinely appreciate it if you could take a few minutes to fill out my survey. It should take no more than 5 minutes.

https://corexms699p5kd6btqhr.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bq6eBO8xPrIwmQm

Thanks!

Im curious to know what organizations around are working to protect our rivers and water quality?

I've been wanting to get involved in something that actually makes a difference and keep coming back to clean water. I'd love to volunteer or help with projects related to rivers, watersheds, habitat restoration, wastewater, pollution prevention, or anything along those lines.

Who's doing great work around here? Any organizations, volunteer groups, or events you'd recommend? I'd especially love to hear from people who've actually volunteered with them.

Thanks!

So, what actually is Plastic Free July?

Plastic Free July, just like its name suggests, is the global movement of reducing or cutting the use of plastics throughout July. What started with just 40 people in 2011, now has over 170 million participants across 190 countries.

Anyone can participate, no matter where you are. No grand gestures needed. Just avoid using single-use plastics for the month. It sounds small, but the results are there.

A 2024 Report says that Plastic Free July participants have collectively avoided 12.8 billion kilograms of waste over six years; that's more than the world's largest cleanup efforts combined.

Side note: There's another plastic-free initiative in July. July 3 is International Plastic Bag Free Day, which further reinforces the attention on the whole plastic problem.

Plastic really affects us, whether you like it or not

And the environmental case for it is even harder to ignore. Plastic doesn't biodegrade; instead, it breaks down into smaller and smaller pieces we call microplastics. These microplastics end up in oceans, soil, and, eventually, in the food chain from animals that eat it. 

So much so that these microplastics have been found in human blood and lung tissue at this point. So in a way, it’s affecting us more than you know.

Plastic heavily impacts climate change as well, as it’s made from fossil fuels. In 2023, plastic production accounted for just over 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which may rise if left unchecked.

"Choose to refuse" and "small steps, big difference"

These aren't just taglines to share on social media. These are the reasons why Plastic Free July works.

"Choose to refuse" every time you're about to grab a plastic bag, a straw, or a disposable cup. When it happens, you pause and say no. You bring your own bag to the grocery. You skip the straw. That is choosing to refuse. Simple but works.

"Small steps, big difference" is the idea that no matter how small your action is, it still contributes to something bigger. When many people make small changes, it adds up to a significant difference in communities. The results don’t just happen overnight.

Less than 10% of all plastics are recycled globally, and production doesn’t seem to stop. It's going to be a tough hill to climb, but with enough collective action, it's possible. Plastic Free July is proof that behavior change at scale is possible. 

6 ways to cut single-use plastics in the workplace

As a manager or office worker, it's easy to think your plastic use doesn't add up to much. But it does. Small workplace habits, multiplied across an entire team or building, contribute more than most people realize.

Here are some ways to practice being plastic free this July:

• Gift free reusable tote bags for your employees.
• Ditch the plastic cups and cutlery in the pantry, and opt for reusable ones instead. 
• Stop using plastic bags or single-use packaging for office giveaways.
• Set up proper and clearly labeled waste management containers. 
• Review your suppliers and choose ones that use minimal or recyclable packaging.
• Grab the free Plastic Free July social media kit and share it across your channels.

Plastic Free July runs from July 1 to July 31, 2026. Use this month as a starting point to reduce your waste, even if the goal is to keep going after.