Honey comes from bees. Bees are tiny creatures who play a huge role in keeping our planet alive and healthy, I’ll explain how.
Bees are born in beehives, where they grow up, work together, and take care of each other. While most people think bees are just busy flying around, they’re not! They actually have specific “jobs”, or tasks if you will. In fact, each bee has a specific role: some clean the hive, some feed the baby bees, and others go out to find food. Basically, they’re like us, except more advanced, because they don’t pollute, fight over nonsense and hate each other for no reason.
Bees are also pollinators.
When bees buzz from one flower to the next, they’re doing something extremely important known as pollination. Here’s how it works: As bees collect nectar for making honey, they carry pollen from flower to flower. This simple act helps plants grow fruits, veggies, seeds, and even more flowers. Without bees doing their thing, a lot of the food we rely on wouldn’t exist.
Let that sink in for a second.
Case in point, 75% of the food we eat depends on pollinators like bees (WEF). 75 freakin’ percent! Apples, strawberries, cucumbers, almonds, and even coffee all need pollination. So, losing bees would mean most of these foods would disappear, or become extremely rare and expensive.
Besides, pollinators also help plants that grow in the wild. These plants give food and shelter to animals and help keep the air clean. So, pollinators help whole ecosystems survive, not just farms and gardens.
While bees are the most famous pollinators, they’re not the only ones. Butterflies, hummingbirds, bats, moths, beetles, and even some types of ants and wasps also help pollinate plants. However, bees are the most effective because they focus their energy on flowers and carry lots of pollen.
This year (2025), we’ve had the worst honeybee loss in recorded history in the US. In fact, 80% of honeybees died suddenly. We still “don’t know” why (pesticides, it’s pesticides).
So, why don’t we eat honey? Simple: bees make honey to feed themselves and keep their hive alive, especially through the winter. When humans harvest honey, they’re taking away the bees’ own food (and heat) source. To make up for it, beekeepers sometimes replace the honey with sugar water, but that doesn’t give bees the nutrients they need to stay healthy. In fact, just like in humans, too much sugar can weaken their immune systems and make them more vulnerable to disease.
Worse still, to harvest honey, beekeepers often use smoke or chemical fumes to force bees out of their hives. This disorients them, causing stress, panic, and confusion, sometimes even leading them to get lost or die as they flee.
Even though it might not seem harmful at first, stealing honey puts a lot of pressure on bee colonies. It is in fact one of the reasons we’ve seen millions of bees die in recent years.
This is why many vegans consider honey as part of animal exploitation. The more we take from bees and damage their homes, the fewer bees we have, which in turn puts entire ecosystems, and our own food systems, at risk. In numbers, honeybees pollinate a worth of 15 billion dollars of crops in the US only, yearly.
If bees disappear, many plants won’t be pollinated. This means fewer fruits, vegetables, and nuts. Animal species that eat these plants will struggle, and so will the animals that eat them. It’s a chain reaction that could cause entire ecosystems to collapse. Eventually, the extermination of bees would entail food shortages even for us, humans, and thus our death as well.
Humans have long seen themselves as sitting at the top of the pyramid, a concept known as speciesism, but in reality, we’re just one part of a vast, interconnected family of living, sentient beings.
Fascinating facts about bees
Here’s where things get interesting: Plants, being rooted in the ground, carry a small negative electric charge. Interestingly, this charge increases the higher up the plant you go, creating an electric field around the flower itself.
Bees, in contrast, acquire a positive charge during flight due to friction with the air, which causes them to lose electrons. So, as a bee approaches a flower, the opposing electric fields of the bee and the plant begin to interact. This interaction subtly changes the flower’s natural vibrations or signals, imperceptible to humans, but detectable to bees.
When the bee lands on the flower, the positive charge from the bee and the negative charge of the flower neutralize each other almost instantly. This leads to two remarkable outcomes:
The negatively charged pollen from the flower is attracted to and effectively “jumps” onto the positively charged bee;
The flower’s electric field is altered, signaling to other approaching bees that it has already been visited. This change communicates that the flower likely has no nectar left, prompting bees to move on and return later. Mindblowing!
So, flowers use electric fields not just to attract pollinators, but also to communicate whether they still have nectar. They have their own language of electricity, completely imperceptible to us.
Other interesting facts about bees: They can also recognize human faces, communicate with each other through a little dance, and even show signs of emotion. Scientists also suggest bees can count and they might even dream.
What can we do to protect the bees and our soils?
Ban pesticides.
Plant flowers that bees love, like lavender, sunflowers and wildflowers.
Replace honey with the million other alternatives in existence: maple syrup, agave nectar, date syrup, molasses, and even fruit-based syrups work great. Why participate in the extinction of a whole species (and many other would follow suite) when you can avoid it?
Bees may be small, but they are mighty. Taking care of them is not just about saving one species, it’s about saving the world we all share.
Thank you for stopping by. This post was inspired by a conversation with my wife ❤
In most Western countries, fundamental commodities such as electricity, running water, well-maintained roads, and a wide range of goods and services are conveniently accessible. However, life is quite different in other parts of the world.
Travel with me
For instance, when my family and I relocated to Mozambique in 1996, basic provisions like sugar and cooking oil were exceptionally scarce. Similarly, when we moved to Ethiopia in 2004, dairy products and sugar were also in short supply.
Not only that, but during our time in Cape Town (South Africa), Maputo (Mozambique), Algiers (Algeria), Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), and (very briefly) Cairo (Egypt), water scarcity was a prevalent issue, particularly during the summer months.
In fact, we used to get up at 4 AM to fill up our water tanks and jugs.
Unfortunately, water shortages are still widely common, and some fierce battles for control over water have already begun.
Take the above-mentioned region of East/North Africa for instance. The Nile River is at the heart of an ongoing battle for water.
Indeed, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Burundi are all entangled in a high-stakes discussion that could reshape their destinies.
Long story short, Ethiopia’s audacious endeavor, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), an engineering marvel rising on the mighty Blue Nile has cause a lot of discussion and anger in that region, rightfully so.
Such an endeavor endangers both Egypt and Burundi, who fear the ripple effects of such a grand project.
Now, in a perplexing paradox, frequent power outages were extremely common in Ethiopia, and I mean several-times-a-week common, even though Ethiopia possesses ample electricity to meet its population’s needs.
Surprisingly, this occurs because the local government chooses to export their energy to neighboring nations, leaving their own citizens in the dark.
I spent over four years (teenage years) in Ethiopia, over four years of persistent power cuts, so I learned a thing or two about adaptability and ingenious hacks to beat the system.
First of all, I hateartificial (street) lights. One of the things I miss the most about Africa is the tranquil stillness of the night. I always found the incessant intrusion of artificial lights aggressive. With that being said, I love candles and oil lamps with all my heart. They embody a charm that captivates me entirely. Indeed, candles and oil lamps are a gentle alternative to artificial light, as they gracefully replace it without imposing their presence. Their warm glow is synonymous with coziness, while their soft illumination remains pleasing and comforting to the eyes. Perfection!
Many of us rely on electric utensils and stoves for cooking, not in Africa (notback then at least). My family always opted for non-electric cooking methods like gas or an outdoor wood-burning stove. Dutch Ovens are also pretty awesome if you want to cook bread and pizzas. No power, no problem.
Food storage: This is a big one. “How did you survive without a fridge?”. First of all, we did have a fridge, it was just turned off most of the time. Since we never had an underground cellar storage (that would’ve saved us the hassle), we had to relearn about ancient cooling techniques, like pot-in-pot coolers (or clay pot coolers). Here’s how they work: First, you’ll need two terra-cotta pots. Place one (the smaller one) inside the other, allowing for an approximate 3 cm (1.2 in) to 4 cm (1.6 in) gap between them. Fill the gap with sand, then saturate it with water. Finally, place your fruits and veggies inside the small pot and cover everything with a wet towel. As the water slowly evaporates from the cooler, heat is taken from the clay pots, keeping the temperature of the food cool inside. But that’s not the only way to store food, you can also learn about preservation techniques like canning, pickling, and drying.
Heating and cooling: Africa isn’t as hot as they say in movies, it actually gets pretty chilly over there, depending on where you are. Fun fact: You can ski in Africa. In fact, there’s so much snow in Algeria, Morocco, and South Africa that they have their own ski resorts, with approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) of ski slopes. Anyway, one of the most efficient techniques to regulate indoor temperatures is known as “passive solar design”. Passive solar homes use natural ventilation and insulation techniques to regulate the temperature indoors. However, in colder climates, wood-burning stoves and passive heating methods like thermal mass and efficient insulation are common. In hotter climates, shading and natural ventilation were our go-to, with evaporative techniques coming in handy (with battery-powered fans).
Water supply: As stated above, we had tankers (or water tanks) in all of our homes. Our water tanks were always placed above the house, allowing for gravity to do the rest. However, in total transparency, we still relied on an electric current (and water pump) to get the water up there. We used it once to twice a week. Other methods we used were conventional water wells, hand pumps, and rainwater collection systems. I used to LUHV elaborating and kidgineering rainwater collection systems around the house!
Communication: Well, most of what I’m telling you here went down between 96 and 2010, so iPhones were pretty much nonexistent (for the most part). However, I did have an MP3, then the first iPod, on which I watched hundreds of movies and my favorite bootlegged series. I used to charge my electronics at school or on our drive home. We also relied on our landline a lot back then.
Speaking of entertainment, the reason I spent so much time kidgineering and playing outside was that I had no other choice. Video games were a big no-no till I was 15 or 16, so reading, playing board games, puzzles, biking, and pursuing outdoor hobbies was all I did. I also read the newspapers. No, this wasn’t the ‘70s ^^
Hygiene: Have you ever washed your clothes by hand? And I mean ALL your clothes, not just a pair of socks? Well, I have, and most people still do. It’s no big deal, it’s pretty fun actually.
Human-powered appliances: My grandma (who obviously didn’t live with us) had the best appliance ever made: A hand-cranked coffee grinder. I loved that thing! I genuinely believe we need more of this stuff today. It makes life so much more fun. On a personal level, I’ll always favor an old-school kettle or manual food mill & grinder over new, electric ones. Also, I never owned a microwave.
Technology is convenient when used properly and I believe electricity is a blessing to humanity.
However, we ought to reduce our reliance on modern tech and learn how to live simply. As you can see, living without one of the most important inventions known to man, electricity, is doable, though it requires careful planning, resourcefulness, and adaptation to alternative methods. Assessing one’s specific needs and resources is paramount for such an endeavor, but it’s manageable and within everyone’s reach.
An Updated Guide to Must-Watch Documentaries on Health, the Environment, and Animal Welfare
A few years ago, I compiled a list of powerful documentaries that opened eyes and sparked conversations about the connections between our diets, personal health, the planet, and animal welfare. Since then, new documentaries have emerged, offering fresh perspectives and deeper insights into these critical topics.
This updated list features 31 must-watch documentaries that will inspire you to rethink your choices, understand the broader impact of what’s on your plate, and consider the powerful role food plays in shaping our world.
Whether you’re passionate about health, sustainability, or ethics, these films are a compelling call to action, and a perfect way to kickstart meaningful change.
You Are What You Eat: The Twin Experiment (2024) A twin-focused dietary experiment exploring the effects of different eating habits on health. Notable Figures: None known.
Earthlings (2005) A groundbreaking documentary examining humanity’s reliance on animals for food, clothing, and entertainment. Notable Figures: Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix.
Dominion (2018) Exposing the darker side of animal agriculture through hidden-camera footage. Notable Figures: Narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, Rooney Mara, and Sia.
Forks Over Knives (2011) A case for adopting a plant-based diet to combat chronic diseases. Notable Figures: Dr. T. Colin Campbell, Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn.
What the Health (2017) Investigating the link between diet, disease, and corporate influence in health organizations. Notable Figures: Kip Andersen, Keegan Kuhn.
Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret (2014) Revealing the environmental impact of animal agriculture. Notable Figures: Directed by Kip Andersen.
Seaspiracy (2022) A critique of the fishing industry’s devastating impact on marine ecosystems. Notable Figures: Directed by Ali Tabrizi and Kip Andersen
Christpiracy (2024) Examining the intersection of religion and ethical food choices. Notable Figures: Directed by Kip Andersen and Kameron Waters.
The Game Changers (2018) Debunking myths about plant-based diets and athletic performance. Notable Figures: Produced by James Cameron, Arnold Schwarzenegger.
I Could Never Go Vegan (2024) Addressing common excuses and challenges against veganism. Notable Figures: None known.
Vegucated (2011) Following three people as they attempt to adopt a vegan lifestyle. Notable Figures: Directed by Marisa Miller Wolfson.
Milked (2021) A deep dive into the dairy industry and its global implications. Notable Figures: Created by Chris Huriwai.
Pignorant (2024) Exploring the psychology behind ignoring the ethics of animal consumption. Notable Figures: Created Joey Carbstrong.
Eating Animals (2018) An exposé of industrial farming and its impact on food systems. Notable Figures: Based on Jonathan Safran Foer’s book, narrated by Natalie Portman
Carnage: Swallowing the Past (2017) A satirical take on a future where veganism is the norm and meat-eating is taboo. Notable Figures: Directed by Simon Amstell.
The Smell of Money (2022) Investigating the environmental racism tied to industrial pig farming. Notable Figures: Guess appearance: Cory Booker
The End of Meat (2017) Imagining a world where meat consumption has ended. Notable Figures: Directed by Marc Pierschel.
The Invisible Vegan (2019) A focus on the often-overlooked contributions of Black communities to veganism. Notable Figures: Directed by Jasmine Leyva, guest appearance by John Salley
Mission Blue (2014) Chronicling Dr. Sylvia Earle’s mission to protect ocean habitats. Notable Figures: Featuring Sylvia Earle.
Eating Our Way to Extinction Exploring how our diets are destroying ecosystems and biodiversity. Notable Figures: Narrated by Kate Winslet.
Eating You Alive (2018) Highlighting the health benefits of a whole-food, plant-based diet. Notable Figures: Featuring Samuel L. Jackson, James Cameron.
H.O.P.E. What You Eat Matters (2018) Demonstrating the health, environmental, and ethical reasons for eating consciously. Notable Figures: Guests; Jane Goodall, Vandana Shiva
Food Choices (2016) A comprehensive look at how dietary choices impact health and the planet. Notable Figures: Directed by Michal Siewierski.
Peaceable Kingdom: The Journey Home (2009) Farmers recount their journeys from animal agriculture to veganism. Notable Figures: Directed by Jenny Stein.
Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days (2009) Following individuals reversing diabetes through a raw vegan diet. Notable Figures: Featuring Gabriel Cousens.
The Cove (2009) Unveiling the horrors of dolphin hunting in Japan. Notable Figures: Featuring Ric O’Barry.
Speciesism: The Movie (2013) Challenging societal norms about animal exploitation. Notable Figures: Directed by Mark Devries.
73 Cows (2018) The journey of a farmer transitioning from cattle farming to sustainable living. Notable Figures: Directed by Alex Lockwood.
Live and Let Live (2013) Examining ethical veganism and its implications. Notable Figures: Directed by Marc Pierschel.
Land of Hope and Glory (2017) An exposé on UK factory farming practices. Notable Figures: Directed by Ed Winters.
Rowdy Girl (2023) A former cattle rancher turns her farm into an animal sanctuary. Notable Figures: Featuring Renee King-Sonnen.
The reason I became a vegan minimalist was mainly to protect it and its inhabitants.
But doing so opened my eyes on a fascinating paradox, especially in the vegan and vanlife communities; a paradox I ponder upon on a daily basis.
Spending more time in the great outdoors allowed me to come to a poignant realization: The very nature that we, avid nature enthusiasts and animal lovers, hold dear to our hearts, is the very same nature we often unwittingly damage with our bad habits.
How can we enjoy something so much while simultaneously participate in its destruction?
Please don’t leave toilet paper in nature (photo by author)
Well, here’s where my thinking is at the moment.
Reasoning
First of all, I want to make something clear: As pragmatic as I can be, my personal belief is that human beings are born good.
However, human beings are also amazing at compartmentalizing.
Screenshot by author
A fitting illustration of my point is that of individuals who profess to be staunch advocates for human rights, yet they contradictorily sport Nike shoes, H&M dresses and Zara pants.
Note: If you don’t know what I’m hinting at, read this.
The same can be said about vegans who consume palm oil, or vanlifers who consume animal products (that destroy the very nature we want to be surrounded by).
Now look, I always say life is all about balance, and I believe it is, but sometimes — often times — rocking something ethically sourced won’t hurt you in any way, shape or form. Perhaps you’ll pay more for it, but you don’t have to if you buy second hand.
This applies to almost all consumables.
So the first takeaway from this piece is to think twice before your next purchases. Always consider the added value of what you buy, its environmental impact and whether there are other alternatives.
That’s one way to tackle this paradox.
Another reason we engage in actions that cause harm to nature is our toxic sense of entitlement, or deservingness.
This manifests itself in different forms: Arrogance, greed, boastfulness or in some cases, negative narcissism.
Some of us behave as if the world owes us. This sense of entitlement emanates from a lack of self-awareness and gratitude, which itself is the result of a Godless, non-religious and non-spiritual society.
Many people believe, wholeheartedly and arrogantly, that everything they have was owed to them.
Hustle culture prescribes “hard work and determination” as the ultimate solution for success, often discarding external factors that also contribute to one’s accomplishments.
Unfortunately, such attitude blinds us from seeing the bigger picture: That none of what we have, none of what we achieve is truly ours, and that it can be taken away from us at any time. It will be when we die.
More humility would do us all a world of good, and without it, we will continue indulging in things that harm us and everything we love.
When the last tree has been cut down, the last fish caught, the last river poisoned, only then will we realize that one cannot eat money. — Native American saying
The third reason behind this great paradox is our lack of concern for the future.
In other words, selfishness.
Social Media may have exasperated this, but many people believe they MUST prioritize their own pleasures and conveniences over the well-being of the environment and future generations.
It’s sickening when you think about it.
But I don’t blame us, not entirely. If anything, we were programmed and brought up this way, but it’s time for a change, a big one.
As a matter of fact, we can’t live like we did 30 years ago, times are changing and so should we, evolution and all.
Indeed, our planet can’t sustain our greed and selfishness for too long, and the time to turn things around is now.
I would never advocate for anything radical, life is all about balance once again.
As such, we don’t have to move to self-built huts, nor do we have to wear banana leaves, but it’s our duty to watch what we consume, how we consume it, and what we want to support.
Your dollars are more potent than your vote and your words. So put your money where your mouth is.
How
You see, I often write about boycotting certain products: Palm oil, white sugar, animal products, single use plastic, brands that pollute our water and source their products in Chinese slave camps and Bengali/Indian sweatshops, brands that support wars, so on and so forth.
To take part of this would make the world significantly better. To do so and to raised our collective awareness is as close to perfection as we can get.
That and reversing consumerism. Remember, minimalism (and essentialism) isn’t just an aesthetic, it’s a philosophy.
In 1927, a Boston-born, Harvard educated son of immigrants went to work for Lehman Brothers. His name was Paul Mazur and his interest in the economics of consumption and retailing made him a rising star in the investment banking establishment for more than 50 years.
Mostly he was responsible for manipulating the psyche of the American consumer. — Sherry Truitt
His philosophy in a nutshell:
“We must shift America from a needs, to a desires culture,” He wrote. “People must be trained to desire, to want new things even before the old had been entirely consumed. We must shape a new mentality in America. Man’s desires must overshadow his needs.”
“Man’s desires must overshadow his needs.” That’s a powerful statement, and a scary one.
So you see, as stated above, human beings are born good, but we were led astray for many decades.
Indeed, our actions are often shaped by cultural and societal norms. Unfortunately, said norms favor efficiency and convenience over wellbeing and ethics. They also favor desires over altruism and consumerism over self-awareness.
We all follow patterns and attitudes considered “normal” in our society, hence why we hardly question anything.
With that being said, let’s not forget that we’re still human, and luckily for us, God bestowed upon us reason and logic.
God gave us free will too, so it’s on us to outgrow our biases and harness original thinking.
Final word
All in all, the paradox of enjoying and destroying nature at the same time is a complex and deeply ingrained issue.
It’s not just about individual behavior, it’s rooted in our cultural, political, and economic systems, making it extremely difficult to shake off.
The one thing I want to leave you with is to question things and at least make sure your actions are aligned with your values, that’s it.
Perhaps some of us have a stronger moral obligation to protect nature, while others don’t. That’s okay, life can’t be perfect and neither can we, but does that mean we should stop trying?
Clarity with Teekay is where I unpack life’s weirdness, one conversation at a time.
Since 2019, I’ve been recording from the cozy space of my home in Bordeaux, digging into culture, society, and whatever else catches my curiosity. Sometimes solo, sometimes with insanely cool guests.
I’ve had all kinds of people on the show: Hollywood execs, international movie stars, doctors, explorers, neuroscientists, microbiologists, pro athletes, writers, marketers, authors, architects, professors, podcasters. They bring their perspectives, I bring my questions, and together, we break things down in ways that (hopefully) make sense.
This podcast is about real, useful ideas, the kind you’d usually pay thousands for in coaching or courses. But I’m putting it out there for free, because why gatekeep good stuff, right? Whether it’s breaking habits, questioning norms, or figuring out how to make life less of a mess, I’m here to help you unlearn, rethink, and build something better.
What to Expect
🔹 [FULL] Episodes – Deep-dive conversations (45 mins), dropping 1-2 times a month. 🔹 [CLIP] Episodes – Short, straight-to-the-point answers (<10 mins), every week. 🔹 [SOLO] Episodes – Just me, rambling about a topic for 7-15 mins, once a month.
You can listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Google Podcasts, and Stitcher.
The podcast has a bunch of accounts on major social media platforms but to be honest, I don’t use Social media anymore, so if you want to reach out to me, do it here.
If you like the show and want bonus content, you can support it here: 🔗 Subscribe here
Press play and let’s get into it. 🎧
(Guest list below! 👇)
Alejandra P. Arenas, Assistant director and production stage manager – Queretaro, MX
Natalie Christensen, Psychotherapist turned published photographer – Santa Fe, USA
Isabella R. Lash, Actress and acting coach – Virginia, USA
Grace Treutel, Manager of culture and content – Alabama, USA
Miruna Dragomir, Head of marketing at Planable – NYC, USA
Fabian Chegoya, Healthcare IT and revenue cycle management consultant, founder of Chaminger and diplomat kid – Denver, Colorado, USA
Fabe Mitchell, Business owner and coach – Florida, USA
Lachlan Parker, Sport and exercise scientist, esports mental health counsellor, head performance coach for @Renegades, Melbourne, AUS
Joseph “Joey” Drolshagen, Founder of IFGT Life Coaching LLC, featured in FOX, NBC, CBS and as Top 20 Business Coaches in America in the NYC Journal 2022 – Greenville, SC, USA
Josh from Pursuit of Infinity podcast, Psychedelics expert – Pennsylvania, USA
Craig Gavigan, CEO of the Unplugged brand and national park ranger, Scotland
Lynne Bowman, Plantbased author of Brownies for Breakfast, California, USA
Tim Fitzpartrick, B2B Revenue Accelerator and Marketing Consultant, Denver, USA
Connie (Lockhart) Ellefson, Professional Organizer, Aurora, Colorado, USA
Phil B. Pelucha, TV Host & Network founder, Gros Islet, Saint Lucia
Vinnie Potestivo, Emmy Award-winning Media Advisor, New York, USA
Kelly L. Olson, Ph.D., Director, Clinical Affairs – Medical Affairs Specialist, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Laurel Foley, Movement Analyst,Indianapolis, Indiana, USA
Kit Huffman, Personal Branding strategist, CEO of Seneca, Jackson WY (now Bariloche, Argentina)
Jen Blanchette
Flobo “Flobito” Boyce, ex US Airforce, Live Entertainment Professional, Standup Comic, California, USA
Yogi Aaron, Yoga teacher and creator ofApplied Yoga Anatomy + Muscle Activation™, New York, USA
Linda King, Travel Agent and Writer, Melbourne, Australia
Amanda Kate, Self-Mastery Facilitator, Melbourne, Australia
Kim Sorelle, Writer and Speaker about love, Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
John Mendez, Marketer & AI Integration Specialist For Real Estate Agents, Stamford, Connecticut, USA
Bastien Siebman, ASANA consultant, Founder and Minimalist,Annecy, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Cora Kessler, Social Media & Marketing Consultant, Richmond, Virginia, USA
Jerome Bethea, Aka JB The Wizard, Web 3.0 Alignment Branding™ Expert. Creator of The World of Futuring, Hollywood actor, Philadelphia, USA
REV Gabriel Castillo, Lead Facilitator at Church Of The Sacred Spore and Psychedelic expert, Titusville, Florida, USA
Dr. Elaine Ingham, Microbiologist and Founder of Soil Food Web Approach (Soil Regeneration), Oregon, USA
Luke Titus, Creator of the Barefoot Challenge, Wisconsin, USA
Geoff Palmer, Natural Bodybuilding and Natural Physique Masters Champion, Owner of Clean Machine Plant-Based Fitness Nutrition, author, national lecturer, vegan patent holder and 2 Time NEXTY Winner for “Best Supplement of the Year” 2016 & 2018, Pompano Beach, Florida, USA
You home wasn’t meant to become a graveyard for your old gadgets and excess stuff.
Home is where we retreat from the outside world, unwind, and recharge ourselves. It’s where we seek solace, relaxation, and tranquility.
Americans spend $1.2 trillion annually on nonessential goods. In other words, items they do not need – The Wall Street Journal.
For most people, home has become the place where they store their stuff.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by the clutter in your living space?
Is it a challenge for you to locate items or decide what to wear?
Are you occasionally faced with a shortage of hangers?
Does the sight of your closet alone make you feel tired?
Does it take an excessive amount of time to tidy up your home?
Would relocating from your current residence require multiple utility trucks?
If you find yourself answering “yes” to any of these questions, here are the likely culprits for this draining situation.
Note: The following examples and numbers paint a jarring picture of excessive consumption and unnecessary accumulation. Clearly, many of us have far too much stuff.
Food storage containers
How many containers does one need ? Research says 6 to 10 containers per person, we’ve got 3 in our home, for 2 persons.
It’s shocking to me that people hoard these things. Some accumulate them to the point of overflowing cupboards!
Wouldn’t it be great if neighborhoods and buildings provided a designated space where people can share their surplus containers, allowing others to utilize them as needed ? This would help curb the unnecessary purchase of food containers and promote a more sustainable approach to storage.
Note: This doesn’t apply if you meal prep, which is awesome by the way.
Pens
There are already enough pens in circulation that many of us could go years without buying another.
Most people don’t use pens anyway.
Auto tools
You don’t need ten wrenches, Bob ! Seriously, you don’t. One is enough, two is MAX, unless you’re a mechanic.
And just like with containers, I wholeheartedly believe neighborhoods and buildings must provide a space where people can share their tools.
I got mine when I was building my Campervan. I’m more than happy to share them with others.
Reusable shopping bags
Reusable shopping bags are the new plastic bags.
A massive scam.
People collect those even more than they did plastic bags, because they paid more for them.
The problem ? Reusable bags require more plastic, energy and fabric to make.
Forgot your bag at home ? It’s okay, just grab what you can carry. You won’t die of hunger, and it’ll train you to think about your bag next time.
Also, always leave a reusable bag in your bike/car or coat.
Better yet, we must promote the introduction of returnable bags. They have those here in France, they cost 15c each (pricey), which is refunded back to you when you return them.
In fact, we don’t have ANY bags at home, reusable or otherwise. We operate with returnable bags only (and my backpack if need be).
Handbags
Why do people even buy those ? When did this trend begin ?
Since around 1500 AD, handbags have been an essential part of everyday life for both men and women.
It wasn’t until the post-war economic period of the 1950s that handbags were propelled into a cult status.
Can we go back in time ?
To those of you who own a thousand and one bag, you only need ONE, two tops.
It kills me to notice people, particularly women, having an extensive collection in their closets and consistently using the same old handbag. Sell them !
Backpacks
Why would anyone purchase a new backpack if they still have the old one? Aesthetics? Boredom? Maybe a size or quality upgrade?
Whatever the case may be, how about you retire the old one (by giving it to charity) before purchasing a new one ? Just an idea.
Coats
What do you need THREE coats for? It’s not like you can wear them simultaneously, right ? Think about it.
Vases (and other decorative objects)
I don’t even know why vases exist, such a waste of energy, materials and space in my opinion. I like my flowers in a garden, but to each their own.
Toys
British research found that the average 10-year-old owns 238 toys but plays with just 12 daily — The Telegraph.
3.1% of the world’s children live in America, but they own 40% of the toys consumed globally — UCLA.
Let your kids play outside, run around, play sports. Some toys help children develop their curiosity and learn about the world, which I’m all for, long as we buy them used. There are enough toys out in the world that’ll never see the light of day ever again, and even more toys in landfills. Enough !
Let’s stop wasting resources and start thinking differently. By the way, gifts don’t always have to be NEW.
Kitchenware
Perhaps I’m a bit extreme but I only have one single plate, and my wife has one too. A couple of bowls and a mug complete our tableware set ^^
If you’re the type to host lots of gatherings and parties, it makes sense that you have more, but we don’t really, so that’s that.
That said, there are billions of used plates and bowls (and other kitchenware) in the world. Stop buying those at IKEA, flea markets are where it’s at !
Note: We only own one mug because I love drinking out of my 34Oz reusable bottle. Easier to keep track of my water intake that way, and less “stuff” to clutter our home.
Furniture
Nightstands, bed frames (unless absolutely necessary, like for people with bad knees), shelves, chairs, TV stands, coat racks and everything in between. We don’t own any of this stuff and we’re extremely happy with our lives.
Don’t clutter your sanctuary with useless furniture. It costs money, it’s heavy to carry, it makes cleaning more annoying and most of it serves no real purpose.
Empty spaces don’t always need to be filled.
Hangers
If you don’t have enough hangers for your clothes, you have too many clothes.
It’s time to stop buying new and to get rid of all that excess.
By the same token, this logic also applies to closet space: If you don’t have enough space in your closet, you have too much of whatever you’re trying to store in there. Declutter.
Clothes
Speaking of which, we all have too many clothes. I don’t even have to know you to say this.
The average American woman owns 30 outfits — one for every day of the month. In 1930, that figure was nine — Forbes.
Also:
The average American throws away 65 pounds of clothing per year — Huffington Post.
Need I say more ? Sort that stuff out, have just what you need.
Each year, we produce as many clothes as humans have ever existed on Earth. Over 100 billion, for 8 billion people living.
TVs
Why would anyone need an iPad, an iPhone, a MacBook AND a TV ?
Some homes have more television sets than people, it’s crazy ! For me it’s a sign of civilizational decline. It hurts to think nowadays.
Americans spend more on shoes, jewelry, and watches ($100 billion) than on higher education — Psychology Today.
Besides, it’s also time to refocus our attention on how energy consuming TVs are to make and to use.
That aside, we must also find new solutions to FIX them. It makes no sense that fixing an appliance costs as much as buying a new one, it really doesn’t.
Also, we’ve reached a point where TVs are slim enough and smart enough that we hardly need more quality, so why are we pushing for more ? What’s the point ? Most TVs today offer 4K quality, which is already too much.
Want to enjoy a GREAT movie ? Go watch it in a movie theatre. Otherwise, your laptop is more than enough for your late night lullaby.
Offsite storage units
If you live in an apartment, a house or anywhere in between and feel the NEED to have an offsite storage unit, you have a problem.
Your stuff isn’t supposed to take up that much space. If you can’t contain it, get rid of it.
Grooming and hygiene products
People have dozens of shampoos, body lotions, shower gels, and an array of other “beauty” products in their bathrooms.
The multitude of these items cluttering up drawers creates a sense of disorder, disarray and mental fatigue.
But I get it. The “latest and greatest” always looks better. Packaging is always evolving, and marketers work hard to make us buy more.
However, we’ve all been blessed with a sense of logic and reason. Often times, these shiny new objects don’t live up to our expectations. Instead, they end up abandoned in drawers, collecting dust.
They’re also a waste of money and resources, and are likely to end up in landfills or worse, the Great Pacific Garbage Patch.
Think before you buy.
Note: I personally use a single natural, organic, vegan and local bar of soap to wash my hair, my face and the rest of my body. My wife and I also share a natural Shea butter bar to keep our skin healthy and hydrated.
Aloe Vera is another great option for the skin but is often sold in plastic, so we don’t buy it.
As for oral hygiene, I use my Miswak during the day and baking soda to brush my teeth after meals. My wife often uses solid toothpaste (sono plastic in our home).
Non-refillable toiletries
Plastic bottles (of all sorts) must be illegal by now. Plastic shampoos and shower gels must be the first ones to go.
I strongly believe that refillable toiletries are the way to a more sustainable future, and I advocate for a higher initial cost when purchasing them.
A higher price point would discourage people from disposing of these items after use, encouraging greater reusability and reducing waste.
Travel size toiletries
People don’t even travel that much, the fact they steal (or borrow permanently) travel size toiletries to keep them in their bathrooms is beyond me.
The greater the usage, the higher the production rate of any particular item. Supply and demand. If we want to eradicate plastic, we must stop financing and promoting the plastic industry.
For those who already have travel size toiletries, don’t toss them. Instead, put them in your shower and use them.
Better yet, give your toiletries to a local homeless shelter or women’s shelter that accepts them. It’ll lighten your load and help someone in need at the same time.
Humans
Yeah, there are way too many humans on this planet.
Final Word
Presently, North America and Western Europe, comprising merely 12% of the global population, contribute to 60% of private consumption spending.
In contrast, the combined population of South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for one-third of the world’s pop, represents a mere 3.2% of private consumption spending. (Worldwatch Institute).
Do you see the problems here ?
It’s not just that we overconsume in the West, because that’s a given. But what will happen when South Asia and sub-Saharan Africa starts consuming as much as we do ?
Because they’re coming, and they want everything we have. After all, why would they not ? Many people look up to this absurdity and want the same for themselves.
Consumerism, fashion and flex culture will be the death of us. They are a sign of the dumbing of our current generation. After all, there are more shopping malls than high schools in America, and 93% of teenage girls rank shopping as their favorite pastime (Affluenza).
An article is about a NeuroScientific and neuromarketing concept you never knew existed!
Our brains have this exceptional ability to act as a mirror. This ability is made possible thanks to what we call “mirror neurons”.
Mirror neurons are a type of brain cell responsible for mirroring or simulating the actions of others.
The knowledge of these neurons is relatively recent. In fact, it wasn’t until the 90s that researchers first identified mirror neurons in macaque monkeys.
And what they found was fascinating !
Mirror neurons were found to activate when a monkey performed a specific action, such as grasping a piece of food.
However, the same neurons also activated when the monkey watched another monkey (or a human) perform the same action.
It was unexpected.
The Point
These incredibly cool neurons are said to play an important role in our ability to imitate and learn from others, as well as in our ability to empathize with and understand the intentions of others.
And to be honest, it makes perfect sense.
For instance, I realized very early on that my proficiency in learning new languages was attributed (in part) to my habit of mimicking the language patterns and communication styles of native speakers.
In fact, even when my knowledge of a language is limited, I make a conscious effort to replicate the way words and phrases are pronounced, rather than how they are written and spelled.
By “mirroring” others, I learned 10X faster than before, and I hardly forget anything. I can also sound “native” if I want to, in any language that I speak.
This strategy has been instrumental for me. Becoming fluent in six different languages and comfortable in a couple more didn’t happen overnight, but with the right tactic, language-learning can be a piece of cake.
Check out this little 3-minute clip if you wish to understand how it works.
With that being said, the effect of mirror neurons isn’t just limited to what we see or what we hear, our brain can even experience vicarious touch through others.
Perhaps this explains the boom of ASMR and the porn industry?
New technologies like Virtual Reality are already using the power of our mirror neurons to their advantage, and perhaps ours, as well.
For instance, VR is now used to help us fight certain mental illnesses and cure certain phobias.
VR can obviously never substitute real life, but it could potentially help many of us heal from certain things.
The Dark Side
As an ethical marketer, I must mention this.
In the world of marketing, understanding vicarious touch and mirror neurons has been a game changer.
Instead of designing ads and products blindly, we now purposely target your subconscious mind.
Doing so allows us to create more engaging and memorable experiences for our audience, thus driving up sales and clicks.
Marketers increasingly design experiences that engage our senses and make products feel more tangible, even through a screen.
So instead of making commercials that focus on the product alone, big corporations and marketers now hire actors and tap into all your senses to deliberately activate mirror neurons in you, the viewer.
There are numerous other tactics to trigger buying, here are a couple I’ve used in the past:
Product packaging: Mirror neurons can even be triggered through packaging. In fact, the texture and feel of product packaging evoke more tactile sensations in consumers than they know. For example, a package with a soft, velvety texture creates the impression of luxury and comfort, while a clear, matte packaging evokes warmth and superior quality.
Audio-visual experiences: Videos, music, podcasts and other types of media can evoke sensations of touch through sound and image. These techniques have long been used in the entertainment industry and in adverts to shape culture as a whole.
Scented products: Products that smell cut grass or mint create the sensation of coolness, while the the smell of lavender provides us with a sense of warmth and reminds us of our childhood (and possibly grandparents). Yes, smell is also used to drive up sales, but can only be used in physical businesses (for now).
Understanding human behavior allows us to look at ourselves with more depth.
Understanding ourselves doesn’t just make us wiser, it actually improves our decision making, hence this piece.
By reading this, I hope you’ve gained a bit more self-awareness and understanding of human behavior.
Minimalism didn’t begin with Netflix documentaries, Scandinavian furniture or YouTube creators.
Humanity has been rediscovering the same idea for thousands of years.
I’ve noticed a genuine interest from my readers in the “HOWs” of minimalism, but how about the “WHYs” and the “WHEREs” ?
Well, that’s what we’re here for today. What you’re about to read will bring things full circle.
After reading and writing about minimalism for 5+ years, I realized that this philosophy is nothing new. In fact, throughout history, most cultures and religions have emphasized the importance of living a simple and minimalist life.
Minimalism in ancient European Civilizations
In ancient Greece, Socrates famously espoused the idea that “the secret of happiness is not found in seeking more, but in developing the capacity to enjoy less.”
Socrates believed that living a simple life was key to achieving contentment and stressed the importance of focusing on the essentials. His philosophy also focused on avoiding excess and materialism.
Similarly, in ancient Rome, Seneca wrote extensively about the virtues of minimalism.
In fact, Seneca believed that focusing on the basics and refraining from excess granted human beings a sure sense of inner peace and tranquility, and he couldn’t be more right.
Not only that, Seneca also emphasized the importance of mindfulness, advocating for individuals to live in the present moment and appreciate the simple pleasures in life.
Minimalism in Eastern religions
The concept of minimalism is central to many teachings in Buddhism and Hinduism.
In fact, Buddhism teaches that “desire is the root of all suffering” and that inner peace can only be achieved by letting go of our attachment to material possessions.
Indeed, the Buddha himself renounced his belongings and lived as a monk, teaching his followers to let go of desires and attachments in order to achieve enlightenment.
The Buddhist practice of meditation is the perfect illustration of that. While Seneca didn’t insist on one particular practice to promote mindfulness and presence, his ideas perfectly match Buddhist philosophy on this point.
Similarly, in Hinduism, the concept of “Sannyasa” or “renunciation”, is a central theme.
Sannyasa involves renouncing material possessions and living simply and in pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.
But Sannyasa isn’t the only Hindu concept that highlights a certain form of minimalism.
“Aparigraha” or “non-possessiveness” also points up the importance of avoiding excess and materialism in favor of simplicity and contentment, which ultimately shows that minimalism is nothing new, and that it took center stage in century long beliefs and religious practices in the East as much as in the West.
Minimalism in Monotheistic religions
In Judaism, the concept of “Tzedakah” or charity, is an essential part of the religion.
Tzedakah involves giving to those in need and promoting social justice.
By giving to others, we learn to reduce our attachment to stuff. Not only that, giving means we learn to prioritize the needs of others over our own desires.
The world needs more of this practice.
How about in Christianity?
Well, one of Jesus’ (AS) most famous teachings says “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”
This idea highlights the importance of avoiding excess and materialism, and promotes selflessness and spiritual values.
Last but certainly not least, Islam.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) lived a humble and simple life. He owned the bare minimum, despite his influence, status and the wealth of his wife hazrat Khadija (RA).
Many of Prophet Muhammad’s (PUBH) teachings revolved around the above-mentionedvalues of charity, avoiding excess and emphasizing spiritual and ethical values over material possessions.
Case in point, the Islamic concept of “Zakat” involves giving a fixed and predetermined percentage of one’s wealth (once a year) to the less fortunate, promoting empathy and compassion for others.
The universality of minimalism is evident in its presence across different cultures and regions worldwide, and there’s more !
Minimalism in ancient South American culture
Often forgotten when talking about minimalism and anti-consumerism, South American cultures and civilizations had some equally impressive values to the ones mentioned above.
“When the rivers are all dried up, and the trees cut down, man will then realise that he will not be able to eat money.” Native American proverb
For instance, if you look at the Inca civilization (present-day Peru, 13th to 16th century), living simply and in harmony with nature was paramount.
The Incas prioritized the concept of “Ayni,” which involved the reciprocal exchange of goods and services among members of the community, encouraging mutual aid and support.
Similarly, the Maya civilization (present-day Mexico and Central America, 2000 BC to the 16th century) practiced a simple and sustainable way of life as well.
The Maya were famous for their beliefs in the conservation of natural resources and living in harmony with the surrounding nature.
This was reflected in their agricultural practices, namely terrace farming and irrigation systems, which were brilliantly designed to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
Quite the opposite of what we do today.
While the Incas and the Mayas are quite well-known, there’s another lesser-known civilization in the Nazca civilization.
Nazcas lived in a desert region (in modern day Peru) and relied on sustainable practices to survive.
For instance, they built underground aqueducts and water management systems to make sure they survived in their harsh environment.
The Nazcas also produced simple but elegant pottery, textiles, and other crafts, demonstrating their appreciation for the beauty in simplicity.
Last but not least, Asian ancient cultures also provide numerous examples of minimalism and simplicity being valued and practiced way back.
For instance, in ancient China, one of the oldest civilizations in the world, Taoism highlights the importance of living a simple and natural life,in harmony with the flow of the universe this time.
This is commonly known as the concept of “Wu Wei.”
“He who knows he has enough is rich.” Lao Tzu
But besides ancient China and India (through Buddhism and Hinduism), another gigantic civilization from the East has its own form of minimalism: Japan.
Indeed, the Japanese aesthetic of “wabi-sabi” is a great example of minimalism and simplicity.
Wabi-sabi celebrates the beauty of imperfection and transience, emphasizing the importance of finding joy and contentment in the simple things in life.
Final word
What has been will be again, what has been done will be done again; there is nothing new under the sun.
That’s what fascinates me most about minimalism.
Across continents, religions and civilizations, people repeatedly arrived at the same conclusion, that a meaningful life is rarely built on excess. Time and again, humanity discovered that simplicity, generosity and moderation lead to a greater sense of peace and contentment.
Minimalism isn’t a Western trend or a passing lifestyle. It’s one of humanity’s oldest ideas.
Perhaps that’s because our deepest needs have never really changed.
We all seek purpose, inner peace and a sense of belonging. Throughout history, countless people found that owning less often helped them appreciate more.
I hope minimalism helps you live a life that is not only simpler, but also more ethical, more intentional and more fulfilling.
Climate change has become one of the most polarizing topics of our time.
Depending on who you ask, it’s either the greatest challenge humanity has ever faced or a problem that’s been exaggerated beyond recognition. Politicians argue about it. Television debates it. Social media turns it into another battleground.
But what if we stepped away from all of that for a moment?
What if, instead of asking what politicians, journalists or commentators think, we simply looked around us?
Sometimes, reality speaks for itself.
Over the past few years, I’ve watched rivers shrink, forests burn and heatwaves become increasingly common in places where they once felt exceptional. Friends living in different parts of the world tell similar stories. Farmers talk about unpredictable seasons. Water restrictions have become more frequent. Wildfires have intensified across multiple continents.
You don’t have to agree with every headline to notice that something is changing.
You don’t have to trust every report to observe what’s happening around you.
Talk to older relatives.
Talk to people who work the land.
Talk to fishermen, hikers or anyone who spends significant time outdoors.
Ask them whether the seasons still feel the same as they did twenty or thirty years ago.
Whether you trust politicians, journalists or climate scientists isn’t actually the point I’m making.
Reality exists independently of who reports it.
Climate change doesn’t care whether we’re conservative or progressive, religious or secular, rich or poor.
The atmosphere doesn’t vote.
Nature doesn’t negotiate.
The real question isn’t whether the climate is changing.
It’s how we choose to respond.
For me, the answer has less to do with waiting for revolutionary technologies than with rethinking the way we live.
We consume far more than we need.
We replace products that still work.
We normalize waste.
We chase convenience even when it comes at a tremendous environmental cost.
Modern consumerism has taught us that happiness comes from buying more.
The planet is telling us otherwise.
That doesn’t mean giving up comfort or returning to life centuries ago.
It means consuming more intentionally.
Buying fewer but better things.
Repairing instead of replacing.
Walking when we can.
Using public transportation more often.
Supporting companies that take sustainability seriously.
Reducing food waste.
Sharing resources instead of duplicating them.
Holding companies like banks accountable.
Many of these habits don’t just reduce our environmental impact.
They also save money, reduce stress and improve our quality of life.
That’s one of the reasons I was drawn to minimalism in the first place.
The same choices that help us live with less clutter often happen to be the same choices that place less strain on the planet.
Perhaps that isn’t a coincidence.
Maybe we’ve spent so long looking for complicated solutions that we’ve overlooked the simple ones.
Throughout history, humanity has repeatedly adapted to new challenges.
The first question I wondered about was financial cost, and the answer was unsurprisingly straight forward: ICE cars are way cheaper than ECs.
The second question I asked myself, quite obviously, was about environmental cost (or impact), ’cause money ain’t the sole reason we do what we do and consume what we consume.
Things like biodiversity, social justice, air quality, disease prevention and health are far more important than money, which makes this topic well worth the debate.
Here are 3 questions worth considering when discussing the environmental impact of car-making:
What are the emissions from production (materials and lining) for both types of vehicle ?
What are the GHG emissions to be expected from both types of vehicle ?
What are the end of life/end of cycle GHG emissions for both types of vehicles ?
Before we get any further, there was a study by Yale in 2019 that concluded that emissions for both types of cars are similar and very small to be worth looking further into.
Subsequently, Jarod Cory Kelly, principal energy systems analyst at Argonne National Lab, said making EVs generates more carbon than combustion engine cars, mainly due to the extraction and processing of minerals in EV batteries and the production of power cells.
Electric VS Internal Combustion Engine cars: emissions
A dozen studies show that conventional vehicle production emissions range between 2 to 17 metric tons of GHG (10 metric tons being the most common average I found)
They also show that a typical, medium-sized, conventional family car will create around 24 tons of CO2 during its life cycle.
The same studies indicate that average EC production emissions sit at around 10 metric tons per car as well, without the battery.
They also show that a typical EV will create around 18 tons of CO2 during its life cycle.
For EVs, 46% of their total carbon footprint is generated at the factory, before they’ve traveled a single mile.
For instance, and because of battery production, this whitepaper claims that we emit 15 to 70% more GHG to produce electric cars.
Battery size matters
Now, there’s also a huge difference when it comes to battery size: a Nissan leaf battery (and car) will only cause 15%more emissions to produce than a classic combustion engine (conventional car), whereas a Tesla battery could cost up to 70% more, according to Net Zero Watch.
In numbers
ICE cars produce 10 tons of CO2 to make, and emit 5.2 metric tons of CO2 per year (on the road).
ECs without the battery also produce 10 tons to make, but only emit 2.2 metric tons of CO2 per year.
Now, to make a 30 kWh lithium battery (Nissan Leaf), companies emit from 1 to 5 tons of CO2 into the atmosphere. To produce a 100 kWh (Tesla) battery, that number ranges between 6 and 17 tons of GHG.
If we base our reasoning on these numbers only, it takes roughly 2 years on the road before a small electric car starts producing less carbon than an ICE car.
If you change the battery in the meantime, you’re looking at around 3.2 years to offset your carbon emissions.
That only applies when talking about small ECs.
For a Tesla, however, you’re looking at roughly 5.53 years of driving before you break-even.
Note: estimates as to how big that carbon gap is when a car is first sold and where the “break-even” point comes can vary widely, depending on the assumptions, driving style, distances covered and the country in question.
For instance, if said electric car is being driven in a country like Norway, which generates almost all its electricity from renewable hydropower, the break-even point would come much sooner.
University of Liege researcher Damien Ernst said in 2019 that the typical EV would have to travel nearly 700,000 km before it emitted less CO2 than a comparable gasoline vehicle. He later revised his figures down.
Now, he estimates the break-even point could be between 67,000 km and 151,000 km.
Lithium, cobalt, nickeland aluminum
Lithium makes up for 5 to 7% of an EC battery, which isn’t as much as most people think.
Cobalt and nickel make up a bigger chunk, up to 20% for cobalt and up to 10% for nickel.
Lithium mining
One of the main problems with Lithium mining is that it’s a very water intensive process, which makes it environmentally consequential.
Lithium extraction uses a lot of water and is the cause for droughts in regions where it’s extracted.
“Lithium mining requires large volumes of groundwater to pump out brines from drilled wells. Mining activities in the Atacama are estimated to consume 65 percent of the area’s water, and they have in some cases contaminated streams and caused significant fall in groundwater”
The main difference between pollution caused by Lithium mining and CO2 pollution is that we, and our planet, can capture CO2 through forests, soils and oceans. The same can’t be said about the loss of water, a scarce element on earth.
Besides water consumption and pollution, evaporation and contamination, Lithium mining is also a cause for high GHG emissions, which comes as no surprise.
Large ECs with long range batteries (which you’d want in a car) could be responsible for up to 17 metric tons of CO2 emissions, so while governments may want to subsidize EC and EV manufacturers, I’m still unsure of the effectivity of this tactic for the environment.
Download this Fact Sheet (PDF) if you want to learn about Lithium, Lithium mining, regulations and laws.
Cobalt-producing nations like the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia and Cuba are discovering that cobalt mining is trickier than they first thought.
Lung disease and heart failure have been linked to high levels of this element, while the mines that produce it are blamed for devastated landscapes, water pollution, contaminated crops and a loss of soil fertility.
The environmental impact extends through the life-cycle of the product from refineries, battery plants, consumers goods manufacturers, electronic recycling facilities and waste dumps.
Among the most affected are workers at poorly-regulated mines, as always.
Concerns in the Congo, which produces more than 60% of the world’s cobalt and where the mineral is often mined in tandem with nickel, copper or silver, are rising when it comes to child mining and child labor.
Obviously, ECs and EVs aren’t the only ones to blame, as most electronic devices use cobalt as well.
Nickel mining
Did you know that Nickel (Ni) is the most expensive material in EVs after Cobalt ?
Did you also know that Indonesia accounts for the largest supply of Nickel in the world ? As if Palm Oil wasn’t destructive enough for the island country.. (Indonesia counts for more than half of global palm oil supply btw)
Reports by IDTechEx state that the demand for nickel from EV batteries is expected to increase ten-fold by 2030 compared to 2019.
One of the main problems surrounding nickel mining is that ores normally contain only a very small percentage of useful Ni, resulting in a large amount of waste material.
“Recently it has been announced that two nickel mining companies in Indonesia are planning to use deep-sea disposal for the raw material waste into the Coral Triangle as they ramp up operations,” the report states.
On the other side of the spectrum, back in 2017, the Philippines government suspended nearly half of its nickel mines citing environmental concerns.
So Nickel, like Cobalt and Lithium, is also highly destructive to the environment in ways that we can’t easily bypass, unlike CO2 emissions..
Recycling of batteries
The recycling of batteries is another issue, an important one, especially in the water scarcity debate.
In the EU, as few as 5% of lithium-ion batteries are recycled. This has an environmental cost.
Not only do the batteries carry a risk of giving off toxic gases if damaged, but core ingredients such as lithium and cobalt are finite and extraction can lead to water pollution and depletion, among other environmental consequences.
Francisco Carranza, former managing director at Nissan and current VP of sales and marketing at Automotive Cells Company, says the fundamental problem is that while the cost of fully recycling a battery is falling toward €1 per kilo, the value of the raw materials that can be reclaimed is only a third of that.
That said, Nissan, like many other car manufacturers, has partnered with power management firm Eaton for its car batteries to be re-used for home energy storage, rather than be recycled.
Perhaps there’s reason to be optimistic, after all.
For instance, the Johan Cruyff Arena, Ajax Amsterdam’s home field, is home to the equivalent of 148 used Nissan Leaf batteries, which found a second life in this stadium.
The JCA is one of the most sustainable spots in Europe. Solar panels, super-green energy storage and onsite vehicle-to-grid charging can all be found in this beautiful piece of engineering.
The arena is a prime example of sustainability at scale. It’s currently the largest energy storage bank in a commercial building in Europe.
Where do electric vehicles get their electricity ?
Let’s put all of this to the side and discuss something that’s equally as important as battery components: energy.
Where do EVs get their energy from ?
It turns out that many regions in the world are still getting their electricity from COAL-powered plants.
In fact, 23% of electricity comes from coal-fired plants in the United States alone. Studies estimate that number to be around 22.9 percent in Europe.
How much of Europe’s energy comes from fossil fuels?
For the structure of gross available energy in 2020, 68.4 % of all energy in the EU was produced from coal, crude oil and natural gas.
Not so green huh ?
The verdict ?
I don’t have one.
But one thing is for sure, I’ll definitely stick to my beautiful 2005 Corolla for now.
Besides, I will always prefer higher CO2 emissions to water pollution, leading to water shortages and scarcity. Child labor and the massive environmental impacts mentioned above are also reasons why EVs aren’t my thing, now more than ever. I don’t see them as a solution but just a massive greenwashing campaign to make us switch our old functional cars with newer, shinier and more expensive ones.
That said, by no means am I saying conventional cars don’t pollute. All I’m saying is, there’s no need to push for newer technologies just for the sake of newness. That’s the whole premise around consumerism, which is the core ideology of capitalism.
Our oceans, with around 38,000 gigatons of carbon, contain 16 times as much carbon as the terrestrial biosphere.
On the other hand, our CO2 emissions today sit at around 36.4 gigatons of CO2.
Our oceans are one of the most promising places to sequester carbon. They currently take up a third of the carbon emitted by human activity, roughly 2.9 billion metric tons each year, according to new estimates.
Now, let me ask you this: can you imagine how much CO2 we would intrap if our oceans were healthy ?
Imagine a world where industrial fishing is banned for good?
People often say that we need to “Save The Earth”. I personally don’t think the Earth needs saving, I think the Earth will be just fine without us. Instead, we need to save ourselves by abolishing all unnecessary exploitations.
The earth is a magical place, a gift that’ll keep on giving, but we need to start looking at things differently.
The solution to the current environmental crisis doesn’t necessarily lie in switching out ICE cars for EVs, not everywhere. We must reintroduce trains, rely on cleaner energy to run them, perhaps focus on industrial EVs, but not necessarily swtich from personal ICE cars to personal EVs.
We have to start looking at all industries, and go through them one by one.
The impacts of certain industries are often dismissed, it’s dangerous.
To save ourselves, we need to abolish unnecessary exploitations and consumerism. Simultaneously, we need to keep pushing research towards truly cleaner options.
Our beautiful planet can easily deal with GHG emissions, but it can hardly “regenerate” polluted water, water being the scarcest element on earth.
Last but not least, if you thought Russia controlling 5% of oil exports was a threat to global stability, wait until you find out who controls 90% of the critical rare earth elements needed for EVs and solar panels.
In sum
ICE Cars are here to stay and that’s okay, for now.
Perhaps newer technologies will come into place and replace the old ones, but let’s give credit where credit is due.
Cars are a blessing.
The demonization of ICE cars has risen sharply, it’s baffling and quite unwarranted. People who can’t afford EVs (or don’t want to switch) have been heavily criticized by mainstream media, so this piece is essentially here to establish some sort of balance.
It’s important to remember that cars, just like railroads, boats and airplanes have played a huge part in how humanity has developed in the past century.
Cars make our lives safer and more comfortable. They allow us to access places and resources that are viable and necessary to evolve as a species.
The debate around EVs vs ICE cars is a matter of choosing the lesser of two necessary evils, it’s sterile and borderline absurd.
As things stand economically, socially and historically, there is no clear winner. Besides, as I mentioned before, I reckon we’re barking at the wrong tree in the sustainability debate.
How about we tackle unnecessary industries like fast fashion, industrial fishing, factory farming, food retail first ?
Worth considering.
Watch this if you want to know more about the innovation of the engine.
Teekay Rezeau-Merah 