Issue Nº 503

Friday

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

• Go green on vacation with these easy tips

• The secret history of our natural world

• How to avoid those steep vet bills

• Explore U.S. national parks for free in 2025

• How you can get 2 months of free running training

Did You Know

One tree can absorb as much carbon in a year as a car produces in ____ miles of driving.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Go Green on Vacation With These Easy Tips

Traveling is an amazing way to experience new places, but it can take a toll on the environment. The good news? You don’t have to give up adventure to make a difference. A few simple swaps can make your trips more eco-friendly without extra effort.

Start by choosing eco-friendly places to stay. Many hotels and lodges now use solar power, ban single-use plastics, and support local communities. Look for certifications like Green Key or EarthCheck if you want to be sure your stay is sustainable.

For transportation, try trains or buses when possible—they create way less pollution than flying. If flying is your only option, book direct flights (they use less fuel!) and consider offsetting your carbon footprint through programs that support reforestation or clean energy.

Once you arrive, explore like a local—walk, rent a bike, or use public transit. Not only is this better for the planet, but it’s also a great way to experience a new city.

Finally, support local businesses. Eating at locally-owned restaurants, shopping from artisans, and booking tours led by locals all help keep money in the community while reducing the impact of imported goods.

Sustainable travel isn’t about big changes—it’s just about making small, thoughtful choices. And the best part? Those choices often lead to even more memorable, meaningful adventures.

The Secret History of Our Natural World

Nature leaves behind clues, even when forests and wetlands have disappeared. From plant life to place names, these hidden signs can help us understand what once thrived in an area—and how we can restore it.

In many places, certain plants signal that forests once stood there. For example, bluebells are often a sign of ancient woodlands. Even when trees are gone, their seeds may still be buried in the soil, waiting for the right conditions to grow again.

Place names also hold valuable hints. In many English-speaking areas, names like “Oakley” or “Birchwood” suggest that oak and birch forests once covered the land. These names offer a glimpse into the past and can help conservationists decide where to replant trees or protect wild spaces.

By learning to read the landscape, we can better understand nature’s past and find ways to bring it back. Whether through rewilding efforts or simply appreciating the history beneath our feet, reconnecting with lost habitats can shape a more sustainable future.

Every 6 Seconds, A Pet Owner Faces A Steep Vet Bill

We all hope our pets stay healthy and safe, but unexpected accidents or illnesses can be pretty budget-breaking. In fact, every six seconds, a pet owner is faced with a vet bill of $1,000 or more.

Pet insurance offers a proactive solution, covering up to 90% of these unforeseen costs. And with plans starting as low as $10 per month, it's a small price to pay for peace of mind. Explore Money's top pet insurance list to find the right plan for you and your fur baby.

View list.

Thank you to Money.com for sponsoring The Canopy.

Explore U.S. National Parks for Free in 2025

There’s nothing better than exploring a national park—except doing it for free! Every year, the National Park Service (NPS) offers fee-free days so everyone can enjoy the country’s most beautiful landscapes without an entrance fee.

In 2025, there will be six free days, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Jan. 20), the First Day of National Park Week (April 19), Juneteenth (June 19), and Veterans Day (Nov. 11). These days are great opportunities to visit parks that normally charge entry fees, like Yellowstone, Grand Canyon, or Acadia.

If you want free access year-round, there are options! Fourth graders, military members, and families of veterans can get free passes. Plus, annual passes for seniors, students, and volunteers offer major discounts.

With over 420 national parks in the U.S.—and more than 300 always free—there’s never a bad time to explore. So grab your hiking shoes, pack a lunch, and enjoy America’s natural wonders without spending a dime!

Want 2 Free Months of Running Training? Join The RunDot Project.

The RunDot Project is a yearly research initiative that helps runners reach their true performance potential with optimized run training.

RunDot athletes improve running speed an average of 3.2x more than non-users and experience performance improvements in 30% less training time.

Do you qualify for FREE training?

If you check these boxes, you’re a good fit:

• Train using a device with GPS

• Have not used RunDot (or TriDot) in the last year

• Not a professional runner

• Enthusiastic and motivated to achieve your running goals! 

Be part of the 2025 RunDot Project. Learn more and apply here (it only takes 3 minutes).

Thank you to RunDot for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks

From soothing teas to stunning nature moments, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🍵 Make Your Own Herbal Tea—Easy recipes to brew fresh, natural teas at home.

• 🐶 How to save big on vet expenses- Every 6 seconds a pet owner faces a steep bill, learn how to avoid these.

• 🌌 What the Northern Lights Reveal—How these glowing skies help explain life on Earth.

• 🏃‍♀️ Get 2 months of free running training- This yearly initiative helps runners reach peak performance

• 📸 Nature Photos to Bring You Joy—Breathtaking images that capture the beauty of the wild.

Reflections:

🌎 Did You Know: One tree can absorb as much carbon in a year as a car produces in 10,000 miles of driving.

🌅 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!