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🌳 How food waste could help power flights

Friday 5/15: Sponsored by BetterHelp and Cornbread Hemp - Sustainable aviation fuel, sunset of the day, DIY cardboard plant pots

May 15, 2026

Friday

“I’ve found that there is always some beauty left — in nature, sunshine, freedom, in yourself; these can all help you.”

Anne Frank

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

True or False?

Making your bed in the morning is linked to better daily habits.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

How Your Food Scraps Could Help Power Flights

That banana peel, coffee ground, or leftover takeout container tossed in the trash might one day help power an airplane.

Scientists are developing a way to turn everyday waste into jet fuel that produces 80–90% fewer emissions than traditional fuel. Instead of sending organic waste to landfills (where it breaks down and releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas), this approach puts it to work as energy.

Flying is one of the hardest parts of our lives to decarbonize. Planes can’t run on batteries the way cars can, and many alternative fuels rely on crops grown specifically for fuel, which can compete with food or natural habitats. Using waste avoids those tradeoffs entirely. Cities already collect trash year-round, and the supply doesn’t run out.

Researchers estimate that waste-based fuel could cover a meaningful share of aviation’s needs and cut emissions from about one in six flights. The fuel meets current safety standards and can be used in existing planes, no redesign required.

This isn’t a cure-all, but it’s a hopeful reminder that solutions can come from unexpected places. Even our leftovers can help move us toward cleaner skies.

Sunset of the Day at the Makalali Wildlife Reserve

This sunset was taken by The Canopy reader Paul at the Makalali Wildlife Reserve in South Africa, where burnt orange and deep violet clouds stretch across the horizon like a painted canvas.

The jagged ridgeline and silhouetted trees add depth to the scene, reminding us just how grand and grounding nature can be.

Thanks to Paul for sending in this stunning South African sunset. Have a sunset or snapshot you’d love to share? We’d love to see it. Send it our way for a chance to be featured in The Canopy.

Image courtesy of The Canopy reader, Paul.

Taking Care of the Planet Starts With Taking Care of Yourself

You make intentional choices every day — for the planet, for your community, for a better future. But carrying that kind of awareness can quietly take a toll. May is Mental Health Awareness Month — a good reminder that sustainability includes your own well-being too.

Therapy isn't just for crisis moments. It's a space to process eco-anxiety, manage burnout, and recharge so you can keep showing up for what matters most.

BetterHelp makes getting started simple. Complete a short questionnaire and get matched with a licensed therapist who fits your needs — often within 24 hours. Sessions are available by phone, video, or live chat, and you can message your therapist anytime.

Get 25% off your first month of therapy and invest in the person behind the mission.

Thank you to BetterHelp for sponsoring The Canopy.

Why Cardboard Makes Great Plant Pots

If you’ve ever peeked into a shed or greenhouse, you’ve probably seen it: stacks of plastic plant pots piling up faster than anyone can reuse them. While plastic pots are convenient, most eventually crack, break, or end up in the trash, where they can take hundreds of years to break down.

One easy alternative uses something most households already have plenty of: cardboard.

By soaking and shaping old cardboard boxes, gardeners can create sturdy, biodegradable plant pots that work well for starting seeds. Once seedlings are ready, the entire pot can be planted directly into the ground, where the cardboard naturally breaks down. That means no plastic waste and less root disturbance for young plants.

The process is simple: soak the cardboard until flexible, wrap it around a glass jar to form a pot shape, tie it with natural twine, and let it dry. Thicker cardboard makes stronger pots, but even cereal boxes can work for short-term use.

This small swap keeps plastic out of landfills, saves money, and gives new life to everyday packaging. It’s a practical reminder that sustainable gardening doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with what’s already sitting in the recycling bin.

Looking For An Alcohol Alternative?

Cornbread Hemp has you covered with their 10mg THC Edibles. Formulated with a 1:1 ratio of THC to CBD (10mg of each), each gummy provides a balanced feeling of happiness without feeling overwhelmed or couch-locked. Customers have expressed their enjoyment solo or with friends, but either way, they’ll get you through the winter with a smile on your face and no hangovers, ever!

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Thank you to Cornbread Hemp for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From gentle dreaming to cozy baking moments, here are today’s feel-good picks:

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True. Small routines can create positive momentum.

🌅 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!