Wednesday

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

• Plant-grown cups might replace plastic

• Sunset of the Day in Turks and Caicos

• Is it time to upgrade your home’s floors?

• How to avoid “forever chemicals”

• How to turn your spending into saving

True or False?

Spending just 20 minutes in nature can lower your stress hormones.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Plant-Grown Cups Might Replace Plastic

A New York design studio is reimagining sustainability from the ground up. The design studio asked a simple but bold question: What if we could grow cups instead of manufacturing them? The result is The Gourd Project, which uses 3D-printed molds to shape gourds into functional, fully compostable drinking vessels.

The gourds grow into cup-like forms inside the molds, then dry into durable, watertight shells. Known as HyO-Cups, these natural containers can be tossed in the compost bin when they’re done. It leads to no plastic, no chemicals, and no landfill waste.

The studio hopes to expand production, aiming to turn this backyard experiment into a global alternative to single-use plastics.

Sunset of the Day in Turks and Caicos

The Canopy reader Andi shared this sweet moment from a recent trip to Turks and Caicos. Her son, Joaquín, decided to try and “catch” the sun, and came pretty close! The soft light, sandy shore, and glowing sky made the perfect backdrop for a playful, golden-hour memory.

Thanks to Andi (and Joaquín!) for sending this in. If you’ve captured a sunset that made you stop and breathe a little deeper, send it in for your chance to be featured!

New Floors Could Boost Your Home’s Resale Value

Did you know that quality replacement floors can offer up to a 70-80% return on investment? It’s one of the smartest home upgrades you can make to improve resale. If you’re ready, Lowe’s Flooring Services will take care of everything — from in-home measurement to professional installation. Financing is available, and every project is backed by Lowe’s commitment to quality service.

Why renovate your floors with Lowe’s:

• Lowe’s certified installers ensure dust-free removal of old flooring and use low-VOC materials that promote cleaner indoor air.

• Choose from hardwood, tile, laminate, or luxury vinyl—all available through Lowe’s with free design consultations.

• Lowe’s offers transparent pricing, seasonal promotions, and financing options, making flooring renovation accessible for any budget.

Schedule Appointment

Thank you to Money.com for sponsoring The Canopy.

How to Avoid “Forever Chemicals”

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals”, are substances used to make products waterproof, nonstick, and stain-resistant. They show up in everything from cookware and carpets to fast-food wrappers and mascara. The problem? These chemicals don’t break down easily and can build up in our bodies and the environment over time.

Avoiding these forever chemicals doesn’t have to be complicated. Start in the kitchen: swap nonstick pans for cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic. Choose glass or stainless containers instead of plastic, and look for food that isn’t packaged in grease-resistant wrappers.

In your home, pick untreated fabrics when buying carpets or furniture, and choose clothing made from natural fibers over waterproof synthetics. You can also use a water filter labeled to reduce PFAS and dust regularly to limit indoor buildup. Small swaps like these go a long way toward keeping your home, and the planet, a little cleaner.

Meet the Debit Card That Does More with Your Money

Cash App Card is a debit card that turns everyday spending into everyday savings. From your grocery list to new sneakers, you’ll get offers that unlock instant discounts at places you already shop—in person and online.

It’s not just about saving. Cash App Card is designed for peace of mind, with 24/7 fraud monitoring and no monthly or hidden fees. Plus, you can pay over time for eligible purchases and split them into 4 interest‑free payments with Cash App Afterpay.*

It’s more than a debit card. It’s a smarter way to spend and take control of your cash every day.

Order Cash App Card

Cash App is a financial platform, not a bank. Banking services provided by Cash App’s bank partner(s). Prepaid debit cards issued by Sutton Bank, Member FDIC. See Terms & Conditions. To view the eligibility requirements for sponsoring a teen, please visit the Sponsored Accounts section of the Cash App Terms of Service.

Thank you to Cash App for sponsoring The Canopy.

Final Thoughts:

From fall flowers to baby dolphins, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🌸 Brighten your porch with native fall flowers

• 🏠 This home upgrade gives you one of the highest returns

• 🐬 Watch tiny baby dolphins learn to jump

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True. Even a walk through a local park has measurable mental health benefits.

🌅 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!