Every year, up to 40% of food produced in the U.S. is thrown away into landfills. Think of it this way, of every $100 you spend on food at the grocery store or market, $40 of it will end up in a landfill. At 22%, food waste is the single largest source of material in U.S. landfills, followed by paper at 19%.

The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted all our lives in ways we could hardly imagine. During these stressful and confusing times, we brought a weekly Coronavirus update to our newsletter readers. We sought to provide heavily researched, trustworthy information on the impact of the pandemic in public health, air quality, tobacco control, the environment and more.

Since the COVID-19 pandemic has placed many of us in social isolation, it has left some of us looking for comfort and safety in front of our favorite TV shows. For some, streaming and binge-watching movies and TV has become a necessary lifeline during stressful times. Films and TV shows are being released earlier due to public demand for streaming content.

It’s May during a pandemic, are we still riding?

In two words, HECK YES! There have been many articles related to the benefits of exercise and getting outside even while we shelter-in-place. (See some of my favorites here and here.)

Breathe California’s 100-year history has been filled with great achievements realized because of our incredible staff members, our volunteers, and our funders. ‘Clean air and healthy lungs’ is more than a tagline at Breathe, it is our mission.

April 22nd marked the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. This year, we were not be able to celebrate in large gatherings, but we can still represent the Earth while practicing safe social distancing protocols. We can still focus on reflection everyday, and remember why we need to make the Earth a priority.

For more information on how to ride solo outdoors safely and confidently, Read Part one, “Stay Safe While Cycling Solo: Plan Ahead” here.

WHAT IF I’M NOT COMFORTABLE RIDING SOLO?

IS IT OK TO RIDE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC?

Are you ready to go nuts, yet? I was there just yesterday. The Social Distancing Quarantine had left me feeling sunken and depressed. Trapped. “Hollowed-out”, might sum it up.