Our book shows people how to focus on those consumer choices that will make the greatest difference to the environment. The book's findings are drawn from an analysis of the impacts of household spending on present levels of air pollution, water pollution, alteration of natural habitats, and global warming. Because cars cause so much harm, even modest changes matter. Maintaining our present food supply is second only to transportation as a source of consumer-related environmental damage. Replacing beef with grains and produce, or even chicken, can significantly improve the environment.
People can help the environment by buying organic foods, too.
In contrast to the attention given to such highly conspicuous sources of pollution, UCS's research suggests that people can stop worrying about other choices that are relatively insignificant for the environment. The Consumer's Guide to Effective Environmental Choices will help you distinguish the crucial from the trivial and make choices that are congruent with your values.