Umbra Fisk

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Umbra Fisk is Grist Research Associate II, Hardcover and Periodicals Unit, floors 2B-4B.

Clean on me

What’s the most eco-friendly dishwasher cycle?

Advice columnist Umbra Fisk tells you how to green up your kitchen cleanup.

Quaff the beaten track

What’s the greenest kind of drink container?

Glass bottles, plastic bottles, or aluminum cans? Advice columnist Umbra Fisk pours forth wisdom.

Flower power

Love fresh cut flowers? Here’s how to find greener ones

Bouquets don't have to be an environmental scourge. Advice columnist Umbra Fisk tells you how to track down better blooms.

Toy division

Your guide to buying nontoxic, kid-friendly toys

Advice columnist Umbra Fisk offers six tips for avoiding the worst playthings and finding the best.

Open-and-shut case

Is it terrible to crack open a window during winter nights?

A reader likes to get a little fresh air. Her husband says it's a waste of energy. Advice columnist Umbra Fisk settles this heated dispute.

Wipe out

Are those magic sponges terrible for the environment?

A reader wonders about the impact of melamine sponges like the Mr. Clean Magic Eraser. Advice columnist Umbra Fisk investigates.

Think outside the box

Is boxed water actually eco-friendly?

Water packaged in cartons instead of bottles is being marketed as "better" for the environment. Is it? Advice maven Umbra Fisk investigates.

Just say no to faux fir

What’s the greenest kind of Christmas tree?

Is it eco-friendly to cut down a tree from the woods? How about buying a fake tree? Advice columnist Umbra Fisk unwraps the answers.

Getting warmer

What’s a greener way to heat my home?

A reader wonders which is better -- a heat pump or a high-efficiency gas furnace. Advice columnist Umbra Fisk warms to the topic.