Clean Living Sunday Newsletter 3.16.25 ✨

Positive Climate News of The Week

The US Installed Record Breaking Numbers of Solar in 2024

The U.S. solar industry had a record-breaking year in 2024, installing an amazing 50 GW of new solar capacity, making it the largest single-year energy addition in over two decades. With solar and storage accounting for 84% of all new electricity generation, the rapid deployment of solar technology is fueling job creation, economic growth, and energy independence. Texas led the charge with 11.6 GW of new installations, while 21 states set new records, demonstrating the nationwide momentum toward clean energy. Utility-scale solar saw a 33% year-over-year increase, while community and commercial solar also reached new highs, proving that solar power remains the fastest-growing energy source in the U.S., despite uncertainty around renewables in the political climate.

Source: Solar Power World

Picture and recipe from @thekitchn

Plant Powered Recipe

Homemade Granola

If you haven't noticed, we are all about quick, easy recipes that are good for you and the planet. By making granola at home, you skip out of the preservatives, additives, and single use plastics. Once you make granola a time or two, you'll have the basics down and be able to toss it together in no time! Play around with different flavor combinations and enjoy!

Serving: 10 Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 20-25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 cup neutral oil, such as sunflower or grapeseed
1/2 cup agave or maple syrup
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
1 cup sliced almonds or other nuts
1 cup raisins or other dried, chopped fruit

Instructions:

1. Heat the oven to 300°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 300°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Whisk together the oil, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Place the oil, honey, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl and whisk to combine.

3. Add the oats and almonds and stir to coat. Go ahead and measure the oats and almonds right into the oil mixture — don’t worry if you add a little more oats or almonds — granola is very forgiving. Stir to coat well.

4. Spread the oats out onto the prepared baking sheet. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking sheet and spread into an even layer. If the granola is clumpy, use a spatula to press it into the pan.

5. Bake for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through. Bake, stirring halfway through, for about 20 minutes total. The granola is ready when golden-brown and the almonds have toasted — it will still feel wet coming out of the oven but will dry as it cools.

6. Remove from the oven, add the fruit, tamp down, and cool. Place the baking sheet on a wire rack and sprinkle on the raisins or fruit. If you want clumps of granola, press and tamp down the granola before it cools, which will help it stick together. Cool completely before storing.

7. Store in an airtight container. Transfer the cooled granola to an airtight container for long-term storage at room temperature.

Skincare Tip of The Week

Switch To a Mineral SPF

You probably know that traditional sunscreens cause environmental harm, like coral bleaching and marine life disruptions, but did you know they are also tough on your skin and bad for your health? There are several reasons to make the switch to mineral based SPF's, here are the top ones.

🌿 Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Mineral sunscreens use zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, two natural minerals that sit on top of the skin and physically block UV rays. Because they don’t penetrate the skin like chemical sunscreens, they are far less likely to cause irritation, breakouts, or allergic reactions. This makes mineral SPF ideal for those with sensitive, acne-prone, or eczema-prone skin.

🌿 Free from Harsh Chemicals

Many chemical sunscreens contain oxybenzone, octinoxate, and avobenzone—ingredients that have been linked to hormone disruption, skin irritation, and even allergic reactions. By choosing mineral SPF, you avoid absorbing these potentially harmful chemicals into your bloodstream. Instead, you get broad-spectrum protection in a clean, non-toxic formula.

🌿 Provides Immediate Protection

Chemical sunscreens need 15-30 minutes to absorb into the skin before they become effective. Mineral SPF, on the other hand, starts working immediately upon application. That means you can step outside with confidence, knowing your skin is already protected.

🌿 Less Risk of Breakouts & Clogged Pores

Many chemical sunscreens contain oils, fragrances, and preservatives that can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Mineral sunscreens, especially those with non-comedogenic formulas, allow your skin to breathe while still offering high-level protection.

🌿 Safe for Long-Term Use

Because mineral sunscreens don’t disrupt hormones or introduce harmful chemicals into the body, they are safe for daily and long-term use—even for pregnant women and children. Plus, they help prevent premature aging, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation without the risks associated with chemical alternatives.

Your skin deserves the best, and that means choosing a sunscreen that offers effective protection without compromising your health. By switching to a mineral SPF, you’re not only safeguarding your skin against UV damage but also embracing a cleaner, safer, and more eco-friendly skincare routine.

Shop clean and sustainable tinted and non-tinted SPF's on our site. (There might be a deal at the end of the newsletter )

Sustainability Challenge

Opt For the Used Option This Week

Utilize resources like your local vintage stores, Facebook marketplace, eBay, or clothing resale apps like ThredUp to see what is out there already before buying something new.

Shopping second-hand is one of the easiest ways to reduce waste, save money, and support a more sustainable future. By choosing pre-loved items, whether it’s clothing, furniture, or electronics, you help keep perfectly good products out of landfills and minimize the demand for new manufacturing, which consumes excessive resources and contributes to pollution.

Plus, it's an easy way to find unique, high-quality pieces at a fraction of the cost, often with better craftsmanship than fast-fashion or mass-produced alternatives. 😊  To top it off buying from thrift stores, consignment shops, or online resale platforms supports local businesses, circular economies, and even charitable organizations that rely on resale profits to fund community initiatives. Whenever possible, opting for second-hand isn’t just good for your wallet, it’s a choice that benefits the planet and people, too!

Deal of the Week

$5 Off SPF's

Now that you know mineral SPF's are good for your skin, health and the environment, why not make the switch?

We have a tinted and un-tinted option, whatever you fancy, use code 'ILOVESPF' to take $5 off your new protective skincare and be on your way to glowing, healthy and protected skin!