Tuesday

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

• Simple swaps for a greener laundry routine

• Sunset of the day, featuring a rock pigeon

• A fresh start for spring—and a bonus for you! Enter here. 

• Rescue effort gives Mardi Gras horses hope

True or False?

The air inside your home is often more polluted than the air outside.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Simple Swaps for a Greener Laundry Routine

Laundry is one of those chores we do without thinking, but did you know it has a big impact on the environment? From water and energy use to plastic-packed detergents, our laundry habits add up. Luckily, a few easy changes can make a difference—without making laundry day any harder.

One of the easiest swaps is washing clothes less often. Jeans, sweaters, and jackets don’t need to be washed after every wear. Washing less frequently helps clothes last longer, saves water, and reduces energy use.

When it’s time to do laundry, opt for cold water and shorter cycles. Heating water accounts for most of a washer’s energy use, and cold water is just as effective for everyday loads. Fuller loads also help—fewer washes mean less energy and water wasted.

Traditional detergents often contain harmful chemicals and come in plastic jugs. Instead, try eco-friendly alternatives like detergent sheets, soap nuts, or refillable options from zero-waste stores. If you use a dryer, switch to wool dryer balls instead of disposable dryer sheets.

These small changes make laundry more sustainable, helping both the planet and your wallet. Why not start with just one today?

Sunset of the Day

Today's Sunset of the Day comes from The Canopy reader Evelyn, who captured this breathtaking moment at Black Rock Canal Park in New York. But this sunset came with more than just a stunning view—it also brought a chance to help a fellow creature.

Evelyn, a wildlife rehabilitation specialist, noticed an injured rock pigeon that remained still as she approached. She was able to rescue the bird and bring it to the SPCA for rehabilitation—and later, she successfully released it back into the wild.

This sunset is not just about nature’s beauty but also about compassion and care for the creatures we share our world with. Thank you, Evelyn, for reminding us how small actions can make a big impact!

A Fresh Start for Spring—And a Bonus for You!

Want a cleaner home without the harsh chemicals? We’re giving away $450 in gift cards to 3 lucky winners—enter now for your chance to win one of three $150 gift cards in just seconds!

Meet Force of Nature, your ultimate spring cleaning upgrade. This powerful (but tiny) appliance transforms water, salt, and vinegar into a multi-purpose cleaner, deodorizer, and EPA-registered disinfectant—killing 99.9% of germs without toxic chemicals.

• One cleaner for every surface

• Cuts through grease, grime & odors

• As effective as bleach—without the toxins

• Eco & family-friendly

3 lucky winners will get to experience a cleaner, healthier home—for free! Don’t miss out: Enter here for your chance to win.

Thank you to Force of Nature for sponsoring The Canopy.

Rescue Effort Gives Mardi Gras Horses Hope

Mardi Gras is full of music, beads, and colorful floats, but the horses that help bring the celebrations to life often need a safe place to go once the parades end. In the past, many of these horses faced an uncertain future, but thanks to the Humane Society of Louisiana, over 100 have been rescued and rehomed since 2017.

The Mardi Gras Horse Adoption Program works to find homes for these horses before the festivities even begin. This year, 20 horses—including a gentle quarter horse named Olaf and a shaggy brown mare named Buttercup—are looking for adopters. Each horse gets a full veterinary checkup, and the program carefully matches them with experienced owners who can provide the care they need.

Since their full histories aren’t always known, adopters are encouraged to work with trainers to help the horses adjust. But the reward is huge—giving a hard-working horse a well-earned retirement in a loving home.

For these horses, Mardi Gras is just the beginning of their journey. Thanks to dedicated rescuers and adopters, they’re getting the fresh start they deserve.

Quick Picks:

From easy ways to give back to the planet to a stunning motel-turned-rental, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🌍 6 Ways to Volunteer for the Planet—Simple ways to make a real impact in your community and beyond.

• 🥗 18 Easy Eco-Friendly Recipes—Delicious, sustainable meals you can try at home.

• 🌸 Enter for Your Chance to Win a $150 Gift Card—Start spring off the right way

• 🏨 A Vintage Motel with a Green Makeover—See how this old motel was transformed into a stylish, eco-conscious rental.

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True! Many cleaning products release volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can impact indoor air quality.

🌅 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!

Final Thoughts:

Want a cleaner home without the harsh chemicals? We’re giving away $450 in gift cards to 3 lucky winners—enter now for your chance to win one of three $150 gift cards in just seconds!