Environment

Soil, like water and other natural resources, isn’t forever. Get insight into why it’s so important to preserve soil biodiversity, what’s currently threatening soil health, and what’s being done to increase biodiversity and regenerate soil.

Eczema is a common skin disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, the causes and effective treatments for eczema remain elusive. So why do people develop the condition in the first place? What triggers symptoms? How can flares be prevented? And might a plant-based diet provide relief for eczema sufferers?

Juicing fruits and vegetables involves separating the stuff you consume — the juice — from everything else — the pulp. That can make it easy to get lots of plant-based nutrients into your body, but it also involves a lot of food waste and can keep you from getting enough fiber in your diet. So are there ways to reuse juicer pulp that can solve both problems?

Papaya is a tropical fruit with significant culinary versatility and nutritional benefits — and considerable global popularity. But is it good for you? And if so, which varieties are best for your health and the environment? And are there people who should avoid papayas entirely? Let’s take a deep dive into one of the world’s favorite tropical fruits.

Scientists created polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to make our lives easier. But in the process, they’ve created “forever chemicals” that are contaminating our soil, water, and bodies. Find out how scientists at Michigan State University are working on removing PFAS from our environment and food supply.

Food scraps often end up in the compost pile. But what if you could regrow fruits and vegetables using leftover scraps? See how you can reduce food waste and save money while also providing your family with fresh produce.

This article explores the ways in which farms can combat climate change while also supporting pollinators. By restoring natural habitats and encouraging biodiversity, farmers are conserving valuable resources and helping to protect the world’s pollinators, which are essential for the future of agriculture and food production.

Avocados are a popular food loved by many. In fact, avocado consumption in the US has risen more than fourfold in the last 20 years. But how much do you know about this creamy green fruit (yes, it’s a fruit!)? Sure, it tastes good. But is it good for you? What are the health benefits of avocados? And are there any downsides you should know about?

Passover is one of the most important Jewish festivals. Traditionally, it’s celebrated with animal-based ingredients and dishes. But are there ways to have a “kosher” vegan Passover? And might a plant-based Seder actually convey the spiritual and ethical significance of Passover in an even deeper way?

Despite the dangers many pesticides pose, the US is still using pesticides that other countries have banned, sometimes for over a decade. See data from the Midwest Center for Investigative Reporting on which banned pesticides the US continues to use, as well as how much of each, separated by hazard level.

At one time, small family farms provided most of the food eaten in the United States — and many of the livelihoods in communities across the nation. People knew where their food came from and how it was produced, and the profits mostly remained and circulated locally. These days, small family farms are in trouble. In this first article on family farms, we’ll take a look at the forces that threaten their existence and why their increasing loss is such a calamity for the food system.

As the earth’s human population tops eight billion, we need to figure out how to feed all those people without destroying the planet itself. In recent years, pea protein has emerged as a promising alternative to animal sources of protein, like meat and dairy. But is pea protein, a processed food, really better for us and the environment?