Issue Nº 503

Wednesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• Uber is going electric

• Tips for starting your own urban garden

• A unique use for bamboo

• Mindfulness tips for city living

Did You Know?

Can you guess how many trips Americans take on public transportation each year?

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Uber's Plan to Go Electric By 2030

Uber is on a mission to go green. By 2030, the ride-sharing giant aims to offer only electric vehicles (EVs) across the US, Canada, and Europe. According to Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi, drivers without EVs won’t be allowed on the platform, marking a significant step towards a sustainable future.

Uber's Comfort Electric service is already making it easier for users to choose an EV. Initially available only in California, this service now spans 24 US cities and Vancouver, Canada. Unlike Uber Green, which includes hybrid vehicles, Comfort Electric features only fully electric cars. While still pricier than standard rides, Uber anticipates prices will drop as more EV drivers join.

Mass transit is undoubtedly more sustainable, but ride-sharing platforms like Uber play a crucial role in reducing individual car ownership. Uber's growing EV network, currently at 25,000 vehicles, aims to double by next year!

Uber has committed $800 million to help drivers transition to EVs by 2025, aligning with California’s mandate for all ride-hailing services to be fully electric by 2030. The company offers incentives like paying drivers extra for EV trips and helping cover charging costs.

Uber’s efforts are a perfect example of companies adapting to the times and responding to what their customers want! Bravo to the team for striding towards a more sustainable future for urban transportation.

3 Tips for Starting Your Own Urban Garden

Starting your own urban garden can transform your living space, providing fresh produce and a therapeutic escape from city life. Whether you have a small balcony or a rooftop area, gardening in the city is a rewarding way to connect with nature and enjoy the fruits (and vegetables) of your labor!

Ready to dig in? Here are three tips to kickstart your urban garden.

1. Start With a Strong Foundation

A strong foundation is essential for gardening success. Ensure your garden beds are well-constructed and strategically placed. Use high-quality soil, enriched with healthy compost, to give your plants the best start. While initial costs might seem high, investing in good soil and compost will pay off with bountiful harvests for seasons to come.

2. Know Your Grow Zone

Understanding your plant hardiness zone is crucial for choosing the right plants. This knowledge helps you understand which plants can thrive in your local climate and save you the heartbreak of unsuccessful blooms. Bringing potted plants indoors can extend your growing options, allowing for more exotic choices.

3. Grow With Purpose

Tailor your garden to your personal preferences and needs. Think about what you enjoy eating or the types of flowers you love. What do I look forward to eating in the summer? Which herbs make regular appearances in your diet? Don’t be afraid to really make your garden your own!

By following these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a flourishing urban garden that brings both sustenance and satisfaction. Happy gardening!

This New Toilet Paper Just Might Save the Planet

Every 24 hours, 27,000 trees are cut down to make toilet paper. To us, that feels like way too many — and Honeycomb agrees. That’s why this small, female-founded brand created luxury, three-ply toilet tissue made from bamboo. It feels just like regular high-end toilet paper but doesn’t harm trees.

So why bamboo? It’s the fastest-growing plant in the world — growing 100 times faster than the average tree — which means thousands of rolls can be produced in the time it takes for a single tree to grow back.

Thank you to Honeycomb for sponsoring The Canopy.

How To Live Mindfully in Big Cities

Living sustainably in a bustling city can seem challenging, but it's easier than you think! Urban life often drowns out nature with traffic and towering buildings, but reconnecting with the environment can boost your mental and physical well-being.

One major urban sustainability challenge is managing waste. The fast-paced city lifestyle often relies on single-use plastics for convenience, but these plastics are incredibly harmful to the environment.

Start by avoiding products that can’t be recycled and choose stores that use paper packaging. Look for bulk sections and produce that aren’t wrapped in plastic. Carry a reusable bag, water bottle, coffee cup, and utensils with you to minimize waste!

Next, let’s rethink your eating habits. You don’t have to give up meat entirely, but eating less meat and dairy is always helpful. Try incorporating vegetarian meals once or twice a week. Planning your meals before shopping is also key to avoiding overbuying and waste. Get creative with leftovers and research local composting options, such as street pickups or farmers’ markets that accept food scraps.

When it comes to curating your city style, thrift stores can be your best friend. You can score quality vintage pieces for a fraction of their original price and stand out with your unique style instead of following the common trends. It’s a win-win for your wardrobe!

Lastly, changing your mindset is key. Sustainable living doesn't mean sacrificing joy or fulfillment. Often, having less can lead to a more enriched and exciting life. Start today, and take each step with mindfulness and intention!

Today’s sunset of the day is truly an extraordinary one. This sunset comes to us all the way from Alaska and is an unbelievable sight.

Thank you so much to The Canopy reader, Monika, for capturing this sight on camera!

Image courtesy of The Canopy reader Monika.

Reflections:

• 🌎 Did You Know: Americans take 9.9 billion trips on public transportation each year!

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured in next Wednesday's newsletter!