What can one person do about climate change? Part 5: Shop smart

Rachel McDevitt

Recent Stories

I report on energy and the environment for StateImpact Pennsylvania at WITF.

My work focuses on responses and solutions to climate change in the state legislature and communities around the state. I trace my interest in these issues back to my time as a Girl Scout and this episode of Rocko’s Modern Life.

I look forward to winter just for the chance to ski a few times each season. I try to keep myself from doom-scrolling on my phone by keeping my hands busy knitting and learning to play the piano.

I grew up in Cambria County, Pa. and graduated from Temple University. I started at WITF just after Christmas in 2014.

Refillism in York is an eco-friendly store that allows customers to refill their own bottles with a variety of products such as soap, body wash and shampoo. Jeremy Long - WITF News

September 8, 2023 | 5:00 AM

The Union of Concerned Scientists estimates the stuff we buy – from clothes and furniture to haircuts and healthcare – accounts for about a quarter of our personal emissions.

Buying fewer things, shopping second-hand, and repairing what you can all help reduce your impact on the climate.