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🌳 How bookstores are helping people navigate climate anxiety

Wednesday 5/7: Sponsored by Beam - Help your trees survive summer's heat, book stores uniting people, and sunset of the day

Wednesday

ā€œLook for the helpers. You’ll always find people helping.ā€

Mister Rogers

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

True or False?

Planting more trees in your yard is always better for the environment.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Bookstores Helping People Navigate Climate Anxiety

If you’ve ever felt unsure where to start with climate action, you’re not alone. Some independent bookstores are stepping in to help, offering more than just reading lists—they’re becoming places where people can learn, reflect, and find direction.

In the U.K., a few small shops are building their shelves—and their missions—around climate awareness. One bookstore in Leeds operates from an old coal barge and only sells cookbooks that support plant-based eating and travel guides that avoid air travel. Another, in a small town in Dorset, focuses on books that help readers connect with nature, from kids’ stories to practical guides on conservation. A third in Edinburgh combines book sales with grassroots organizing, pointing readers to real-world actions they can take.

What these shops have in common is a belief that books can do more than inform—they can empower. Whether it’s a personal change, a community project, or simply learning how climate connects to daily life, the right book can be a first step. And sometimes, that’s all we need to get started.

Sunset of the Day Over the Atlantic Ocean

Captured at Assateague National Seashore (located in Maryland) on the Atlantic Ocean, this glowing sunrise from Elizabeth feels like a deep breath for the soul. The rising sun spills gold across the tide, meeting the sand with a shimmer that looks almost too perfect to be real.

Elizabeth called the moment magical, and we couldn’t agree more. It’s the kind of light that reminds us to pause, look up, and feel grounded in the beauty around us.

Have a sunset (or sunrise!) that stopped you in your tracks? We’d love to see it—send it our way and help us share more moments like this with The Canopy community.

Image courtesy of The Canopy reader Elizabeth.

What to Do When You Struggle to Fall Asleep

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Thank you to Beam for sponsoring The Canopy.

How To Help Your Neighborhood Trees This Summer

Ever noticed those young trees along sidewalks, looking a little wilted in the summer sun? Cities plant them with good intentions, but many don’t make it without help. That’s where nearby neighbors (like us!) come in.

Newly planted trees can take years to build strong root systems, and during that time, they need extra water, especially in hot months. Experts say just 5 gallons twice a week can make all the difference. If you have leftover dishwater, cooled pasta water, or even melted ice from a cooler, pour it at the base (as long as it’s bleach-free).

Long, slow watering helps more than a daily sprinkle. Try poking holes in a bucket, filling it with water, and letting it drip into the soil. Mulch helps, too, by keeping the roots cool and moist.

Caring for a tree might seem small, but over time, your effort can turn a scrawny sapling into a shady, beautiful part of your block. And that’s something every neighbor can enjoy.

Quick Picks:

From animal vision to berry-saving hacks, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

Reflections:

šŸŒŽ True or False: False! Native plants or wildflowers may actually be better for local pollinators and water conservation, depending on your region.

šŸŒ… 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!