Practical Ways You Can Spark Change

Learn how to become a savvier consumer and an effective environmental and public health advocate with these toolkits and how-tos.

Featured How-Tos & Toolkits

A man and woman in winter clothing sit on a passenger bus

How to Ditch the Biggest Fossil Fuel Offenders in Your Life

May 4, 2026 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Here are some high-impact ways to reduce your personal use of oil and gas and gain a little energy independence.

An illustration of a toilet flushing down trees

The Best and Worst Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and Facial Tissue Brands

December 3, 2025 How-ToCanada, United StatesCourtney Lindwall

Tissue paper production is taking a devastating toll on forests. NRDC’s newest Issue with Tissue report can help you find earth-friendly brands.

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How to Ditch the Biggest Fossil Fuel Offenders in Your Life

May 4, 2026 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Here are some high-impact ways to reduce your personal use of oil and gas and gain a little energy independence.

How to Get More Out of Your Kitchen Stash and Minimize Your Trash

March 10, 2026 How-ToUnited StatesShelia Hu, Molly M. Ginty

With the confusing date labels that are stamped on our foods, here’s how to suss out what’s still okay to actually eat.

The Best and Worst Toilet Paper, Paper Towel, and Facial Tissue Brands

December 3, 2025 How-ToCanada, United StatesCourtney Lindwall

Tissue paper production is taking a devastating toll on forests. NRDC’s newest Issue with Tissue report can help you find earth-friendly brands.

How to Find Out If Your Home Has Lead Service Lines

October 24, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you check for lead pipes—and the questions to ask of your local water utility.

How to Protect Yourself from Lead-Contaminated Water

October 24, 2025 How-ToUnited States, Newark, PittsburghCourtney Lindwall

People across the United States continue to face high levels of this toxic metal in their drinking water. Here’s what to do if you have lead in your plumbing.

How to Make Your Community More Resilient to Climate Disasters

August 28, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesJ. J. Starr

You don’t need to wait for national legislation to protect yourself from extreme weather. Here’s how to start right now—where you live.

Nontoxic Ways to Protect Your Pet

August 21, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesKaren L. Smith-Janssen

How to find family-friendly flea and tick products that will provide effective care without skull and crossbones ingredients.

A Consumer Guide to the Inflation Reduction Act

July 28, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Here’s how to save on electric vehicles, solar panels, heat pumps, and more via tax credits and rebates—before they run out.

How to Find Relief During Summer Heat Waves in the City

June 23, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Extreme heat is a serious public health threat—particularly for city dwellers. Here are some quick tips to help keep you and your neighbors cool.

9 maneras de evitar químicos que interfieren con las hormonas

June 16, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesAlexandra Zissu, Shelia Hu

Los interruptores endocrinos, como el BPA y los ftalatos, se encuentran en todo, desde productos de limpieza hasta fragancias.

9 Ways to Avoid Hormone-Disrupting Chemicals

June 16, 2025 How-ToUnited StatesAlexandra Zissu, Shelia Hu

Endocrine disruptors like PFAS, BPA, and phthalates lurk in everything from cleaning products to dust bunnies.

7 Ways to Flood-Proof Your House

May 29, 2025 How-ToUnited States, Texas, South Carolina, West VirginiaMary Talbot

As floods become more frequent and severe with climate change, protecting your home becomes even more crucial. Here’s how to assess your risk—and make sure you’re prepared for the worst.

8 Things You Can Do to Help NRDC Fight Trump’s Agenda

January 31, 2025 How-ToUnited States

Feeling really angry or scared about the Trump administration's slew of anti-environmental attacks? Here are some actions you can take.

How to Stay Safe From Wildfire Smoke

January 10, 2025 How-ToUnited States, WestAlisa Opar

Breathe more easily with these tips on choosing the right protective mask, maintaining your indoor air quality, recognizing when to avoid the outdoors, and knowing who is most at risk.

Cómo mantenerse a salvo del humo de los incendios forestales

January 10, 2025 How-ToUnited States, WestAlisa Opar

Respira más fácilmente con estos consejos para elegir la máscara protectora adecuada, mantener la calidad del aire interior, reconocer cuándo evitar actividades al aire libre y saber quién está en mayor riesgo.

How to Find Joy in Nature When You Need It Most

December 12, 2024 How-ToUnited StatesCourtney Lindwall

Simple activities—like foraging for edible plants, hopping on a bike, or identifying local birds—can help provide comfort and the inspiration to move forward.