Issue Nº 503

Wednesday

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

• How can tennis balls save wildlife?

• We found it! The world’s first (actually) affordable eco-store

• Sustainable holiday decor from your own backyard

• A beautiful Boston sunset

Did You Know?

Using ___ and ___ as holiday decorations is 100% zero-waste.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Repurposed Tennis Balls Are Saving Wildlife

What happens to old tennis balls after the match ends? Wimbledon has found a creative, eco-friendly solution: Donating them to become homes for field mice. This simple yet impactful initiative supports wildlife and reduces waste from the tennis tournament.

Each year, Wimbledon donates thousands of used tennis balls, which are modified with small openings to create safe, snug shelters for field mice. These little animals often struggle to find protected nesting spots as urbanization reduces their natural habitats. The tennis balls provide vital protection from predators and harsh weather, giving the mice a chance to thrive.

This program also addresses waste from the tournament. Tennis balls are made of non-biodegradable rubber and felt. These materials can take decades to decompose in landfills. By finding a new purpose for them, Wimbledon demonstrates how innovative ideas can benefit both wildlife and the planet.

Tennis balls have plenty of other uses, too. They can be repurposed around the house as pet toys, furniture protectors, or even stress relievers for DIY massages. Wimbledon's initiative is a great reminder of how everyday items can be repurposed.

How could you repurpose everyday items in your home to make a positive impact on the environment?

The World’s First (Actually) Affordable Eco Store?

What if sustainable living didn’t have to cost a fortune? That’s the idea behind Ecoternatives—a store built to make eco-friendly living affordable for everyone.

Unlike other zero-waste stores, Ecoternatives offers high-quality, plastic-free home products AT COST, without compromising on ethics or sustainability. For example, their “Essentials” bundle—which costs $160 at a top zero-waste retailer—is only $79.95 at Ecoternatives.

And for the next 7 days only, you can save even more: Use code CANOPY for an additional 5% off.

Plus, looking for the perfect holiday gift? Ecoternatives’ thoughtful, eco-friendly bundles make a meaningful present for anyone on your list.

This holiday season, give a gift that’s kind to both loved ones and the planet. Don’t wait—save an additional 5% with code CANOPY before the sale ends in 7 days!

Thank you to Ecoternatives for sponsoring The Canopy.

Backyard Finds for Sustainable Holiday Decor

This holiday season, why not use native plants to decorate your home? They’re beautiful, eco-friendly, and support local ecosystems. Plus, it’s a great way to add a personal, natural touch to your celebrations.

1. Forage in Your Backyard: Look for evergreen branches, pinecones, berries, or seed pods around your yard or nearby local green spaces (with permission!). Just be sure to take only what you need.

2. Create Natural Centerpieces: Bundle branches of cedar, spruce, or other native evergreens to craft stunning wreaths or table centerpieces. Pair them with pinecones, dried flowers, or even native seed pods for added texture.

3. Add Unique Local Touches: Use regionally specific plants to make your decorations truly special. For example, in the Southwest, you might include juniper sprigs or dried yucca pods, while in coastal areas, native grasses or driftwood add a seasonal flair. Be sure to research your area to find out what plants are local to you!

4. Compost When You’re Done: Once the holidays are over, these decorations can go straight into the compost, helping enrich the soil instead of creating waste.

Native plant decor is simple, sustainable, and full of local charm. Which native plants will you try this holiday season?

Sunset of the Day

The Canopy reader Char captured something truly special on October 17—a beautiful sunset reflecting off the cityscape.

It shows us that even in bustling urban settings, nature’s magic has a way of surprising us when we least expect it.

Thank you, Char, for sharing this moment! Have you spotted a sunset that stopped you in your tracks? We’d love to see it!

Final Thoughts

What if sustainable living didn’t have to cost a fortune? That’s the idea behind Ecoternatives—a store built to make eco-friendly living affordable for everyone.

This holiday season, give a gift that’s kind to both loved ones and the planet. Don’t wait—save an additional 5% with code CANOPY before the sale ends in 7 days!

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: Using pinecones and dried leaves as holiday decorations is 100% zero-waste.

🌅 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!