Understanding the historic negotiations shaping water’s future in our region If you live in the Desert Southwest, this is a pivotal year for the Colorado River. The river supports approximately 40 million people across seven states and Mexico, including more than half of all Californians. This year, those seven states and Mexico must agree on […]
Author: Sustainable Desert
Joshua Trees are Blooming Way Too Early and That’s a Problem
Something weird is happening in the Mojave Desert. Joshua trees are flowering in late October and November instead of their usual late February timing. It might sound like a minor scheduling hiccup, but for scientists studying these iconic plants, it’s raising some serious red flags. I took this photo of a blooming Joshua tree in […]
Beyond the Recycling Bin: Why Plastic Free July Starts with Avoid, Reduce, Reuse
Picture this: You’ve just finished your morning coffee, dutifully rinsed your plastic K-cup, and tossed it in the recycling bin with a small sense of environmental accomplishment. But here’s the reality check that might surprise you—only 9% of all plastic ever produced has actually been recycled. That K-cup? It’s likely heading to a landfill, not […]
How Climate Change is Intensifying Summer Heat in the Desert
Meteorological summer has arrived in Palm Springs, and with it comes the familiar triple-digit temperatures. However, recent data reveals that these scorching days are not just seasonal norms—they’re part of a concerning trend linked to climate change. Since 1970, summers have warmed in 97% of 242 U.S. cities analyzed, with an average increase of 2.6°F. […]
🌱 Living Lightly: A Real-World Guide to Sustainable Living
What does it mean to live sustainably today—not just in theory, but in the rhythm of your everyday choices? It’s more than remembering to recycle or carrying a reusable tote bag. Sustainable living is about reconnecting with what truly matters: our planet, our communities, and our role in shaping a better future. Here’s an actionable, […]
Take Action: March 7 – Day of Action for NPS
This is from the National Parks Conservation Association: There are two active campaigns right now to take action to save our National Parks. Send an email Here is a link to easily send an email to Congress to urge them to protect our National Park Service staff. Call your Representative Find out who your representative […]
Take Action: Tell Governor Newsom and Attorney General Bonta to protect California water from the Trump Administration!
This call to action comes from the Sierra Club. President Donald Trump has instructed the federal government to exert control over California’s water systems and we need your help in demanding that Governor Gavin Newsom and Attorney General Rob Bonta stand up to him! In his first week as President, Donald Trump issued two executive […]
Take Action: CVAG Emissions Survey
Desert cities residents are encouraged to share input in CVAG’s emissions survey to shape the Regional Comprehensive Climate Action Plan. Desert cities are collaborating with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) to develop a Comprehensive Climate Action Plan with locally driven strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Your input matters! Take this quick survey […]
Take Action: Leave No Trace
7 Principles of Leave No Trace As stewards of nature we have a responsibility to restore and protect our environment and ecosystem. We need to be aware that our presence in nature, a national or state park, wildlands, backcountry, even a local park, has an impact on plants and animals in that area. One of the […]