It takes 713 gallons of water to make one t-shirt. Judith Annicchiarico looks at the true cost of fast fashion, how California’s Responsible Textile Recovery Act of 2024 is starting to help, and where to drop off unwanted clothes locally — including Target’s new Textile Drop Spot bins — while asking whether we really need that next purchase.

SB868 could bring plug-in solar to UH balconies and backyards — but utilities are fighting it, Prop 45 threatens existing protections, and local groups need help.

Tijuana River fumes, freeway emissions, and industrial pollution often degrade the air around University Heights and threaten resident health.

With Zone Zero rules and development reducing UH's tree canopy, planting mature trees now is critical for shade, air quality, and wildlife habitat.

University Heights’ biodiversity garden will be featured on the California Native Plant Society’s 2026 garden tour, highlighting native plants and volunteer work.

San Diego residents should not put compostable green bags in green bins. Here’s what belongs in each bin and why contamination matters.

February’s sustainability column focuses on disaster preparedness, personal readiness, and small steps toward future self-care.

Tips for sustainable holiday shopping, waste reduction, and avoiding microplastics like glitter while navigating University Heights' changing transportation landscape.

Excessive nighttime lighting does more than waste energy—it disrupts nature’s best pest control system. Bright lights deter owls, which can consume over 1,000 rodents a year, and allow rats and mice to thrive. Smart lighting choices like motion sensors, downward fixtures, and warmer bulbs can restore balance, cut costs, and help owls keep UH rodent-free.

UH residents cleared over 40,000 pounds of vegetation and debris from Buchanan Canyon to reduce fire risks and restore native growth.

UH residents are warned against planting tropical milkweed, which can spread pathogens harmful to monarch butterflies, and encouraged to use native varieties.

Learn why pollinators matter to our ecosystem and how UH residents can take action to protect them locally.

Milkweed giveaways, volunteer events, and a call for donations: here’s how UH is growing a greener neighborhood.

From native plants to river cleanups, learn how local groups are helping the environment—and how you can join in.

UH’s favorite yard sale tradition returns — plus electronics recycling and a chance to protest trash fees.

UH cat owners are turning to “catios” to keep pets safe and protect birds, butterflies, and pollinators.