Cable Channel's Eco-Cred a Bit Overcooked

After earning 'moral credits,' subjects more likely to cheat, steal

(NEWSER) - The satisfaction people get from purchasing environmentally friendly products is apt to lead to other selfish, even morally repugnant decisions later, writes Rebecca Tuhus-Dubrow on Slate . It's not just the complacency that comes from thinking you've done your part for the planet, however insignificant. It's something researchers call "moral licensing"—doing something you think is good actually makes you more likely to do something dubious later. More»

Bundchen more than just a supermodel, has long campaigned for environmental issues

(NEWSER) - Gisele Bundchen will have more than a baby with hubby Tom Brady to keep her busy—yesterday she was named a Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations Environment Programme, the Boston Herald reports. “Mother Earth is our fundamental life-support system, and by becoming aware and responsible now, we can assist in preserving the planet,” says the supermodel, who has a Web-based environmental cartoon and has worked on reforestation in her native Brazil. More»

Wine can go bad after less than a year

(NEWSER) - Some are looking to recycled plastic bottles as the future of wine packaging—but though they are more eco-friendly, such bottles are less wine-friendly, Reuters reports. They’re “fine for wine you plan to use under 12 months, but not for wines that are designed to improve in the bottle,” says the managing director of plastic bottle maker Portavin. “Simply put, air travels through plastic but not through glass.” More»

Culinary consciousness 'gives taste to the text we study': advocate

(NEWSER) - A new wave of “eco-kosher” Jews treats environmentalism as law, the Los Angeles Times reports. To strengthen their ties to their faith, culinarily conscious believers are hosting sustainable Sabbath dinners using homemade, locally grown foods. “Jewish tradition should heighten our awareness of the choices we’re making,” said one devotee. Another noted, “It gives taste to the text we study.” More»

(NEWSER) - Being sensitive to the environment doesn't have to cost a fortune. In fact, the green option is often the most cost-effective one. Scientific American spotlights nine ways of cutting your bills as you save the Earth:

• Shrink your living space. Prefab homes and plans for dwellings as small as 65 square feet are widely available.