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Best choice meat - Grazed free range on Gippsland farms; Healthy, well fed livestock managed to minimise stress; Grown without artificial hormones or antibiotics; actively protecting biodiversity and water quality; management and protection of soil health and organic matter, EMS certified farm.

Large-scale deforestation to make way for the mining threatens to leave up to half of Bangka's forests arid, and previously fertile ground and water aquifers have acidified. Purchase electronics goods from companies that are open about where they source tin from, acknowledge the damage tin extraction has caused in Indonesia, and support the introduction of sustainable mining practices. Friends of the Earth Netherlands has assessed major electronics companies based on their transparency and support for sustainable mining See Friends of the Earth's three part documentary: Mining for Smartphones

These include mineral oil, DEA/TEA/MEA, D&C colours, aluminium, talc, and synthetic fragrances. Avoid known toxins. Decode the chemical nasties with the Chemical Maze app and book. Check out the Skin Deep cosmetics database with over 71,000 different products and a safety assessment of ingredients (US).

Further, Fairtrade ensures a minimum price for farmer's crops and distributes money to farmer organisations to improve their infrastructure. This means that farmers have more income to spend on adult workers instead of employing children. Look for the Fairtrade symbol when shopping for chocolate. The issues with cocoa production also go beyond child exploitation. Adult farmers consistently earn below a living wage. Old-growth forests are often cut down to make way for cocoa plantations, and farmers will illegally grow on national parks to increase their yield in any way. Cocoa production is also known to involve slavery. What you can do: Buy Fairtrade chocolate Purchase chocolate from countries of origin where these issues are less prevalent. Educate yourself on the extent and impacts of child exploitation in Ghana and the Ivory Coast Learn more about the various issues with cocoa production

This allows armed groups to control or extort the mines and their workers, with mining income directly funding the violence of many armed groups in the region. The situation also causes suffering as these groups fight each other for control over these mining sites. Beyond the violence perpetrated by militants, the working conditions in the mines are frequently deplorable. The workers, including children, are regularly coerced into work. Conditions are often dangerous, with the lack of government regulation and domination by armed groups preventing workers from fighting for sufficient labour rights. Choose to buy from companies that have taken steps to trace their supply chains and are attempting to avoid sourcing conflict minerals. As You Sow has ranked the largest electronic companies on their commitment to tracing their supply chains and using legitimately-sourced minerals What you can do: Avoid purchasing products made with conflict minerals and buy from companies committed to equitable and conflict-free supply chains. As You Sow's Mining the Disclosures' report offers comprehensive rankings in many industries. Buy jewellery and electronics second-hand. This avoids supporting conflict minerals while also being less wasteful. Contact your local member of parliament and express your desire for greater regulation of conflict minerals and further effort in addressing the underlying problems in these regions.

The current minimum space allocation for caged birds is 450cm2 floor space per bird (less than the size of a piece of A4 paper). With on average 3- 5 birds per cage, this equals about 18 hens per square metre. The small size of cages means that birds are unable to turn around easily, stretch out, flap their wings or exercise. Cages do not satisfy the hen's behavioural need to perch, dust bathe, forage, and lay their eggs in a secluded nest. Beaks are trimmed to prevent cannibalism. In 2008, the European Union announced a ban on conventional battery cages to come into effect from 2012 (Directive 1999/74/EC). This will mean 'Enriched' cages must allow at least 750 cm2 per hen, and contain a nest, litter, perch and clawing-board. This is equal to 9 hens per square metre. BARN-LAID EGGS Hens are housed in a large barn or shed, which contains perching facilities, litter, nest boxes, feeders and drinkers. Most barns have around one-third of the floor space covered with litter that allows for scratching and dust bathing. Flocks may be small (500 birds) or large (5000 birds or more). Conventional barns house 12-15 hens per square metre. The RSPCA-accredited barn-housed hens ('Choose Wisely' branding) house up to 9 hens per square metre. FREE-RANGE EGGS In May 2016 a new national standard for free-range egg production was introduced, requiring the density of chickens outdoors must be no more than one hen per square metre (10,000 hens per hectare) and hens are to have "meaningful and regular" access to the outdoors. It also requires the disclosure of outdoor stocking densities. This legislation is significantly less strict than the 1,500 birds per hectare standard, recommended by the CSIRO and preferred by the RSPCA, a standard previously in place in the Australian Capital Territory. Consumer advocacy group CHOICE responded to the new standards by calling for a consumer boycott of eggs from companies with high stocking densities. Three voluntary certifications that have documented standards are: (1) FREPA (Free Range Egg & Poultry Australia). 7 hens per square metre. Farms are inspected annually, hens have access to pasture and water, do not lay under lights, and are not debeaked. (2) Organic certification. ACO (Australian Certified Organic) guarantee birds are fed organic grain, are free from pesticides, chemical fertilisers and antibiotics, with a maximum of 5 hens per square metre. (3) RSPCA Approved Farming Scheme includes standards for barn or free-range production where farms are assessed by the RSPCA at least twice per year. The standards are focussed on animal welfare where hens can perch, dust bathe, scratch and forage, and lay their eggs in a nest. (4) Australian Egg Corporation 'Egg Corp Assured', which represents 90% of producers, code of practice for animal welfare as part of their quality assurance scheme has 14 hens per square, and 'access' to outside. Allows beak trimming. Recipients of Choice's 2008 "Shonky Awards". If you want to buy free-range eggs with hen welfare in mind, look for independent certification such as FREPA, RSPCA or Certified Organic. Or use the Choice free-range eggs buying guide to see which brands meet the recommended model code of 1500 hens per hectare. Learn more

However, there is a lot you can do to minimise the harm for you and your family. Some of the biggest negative impacts of these technologies are on physical and mental health. In 2018, the World Health Organisation (WHO) added gaming addiction to the International Classification of Diseases. Too much screen use takes people away from work, education, socialising, exercise, and other activities necessary for their wellbeing. In addition, social media sites like Instagram and TikTok can often distort people's views on how their lives and bodies should look. This can lead to body image issues and shame over one's lifestyle. Particularly for young people, social media and online video games expose users to cyberbullying, which is highly damaging to mental health. Another issue with these technologies is how the algorithms on many social media sites have been shown to push people towards extremist and harmful content. Examples include neo-nazi groups, extreme sexism, or conspiracies that encourage violence. Many of these issues are not inherent to these devices and services but depend on how they are used. As difficult as it can be, you get to choose how often and in what ways you engage with these technologies. It can help to reflect on what you genuinely enjoy doing on these devices and then limit yourself to these activities in healthy doses. Generally, activities which connect you with others and require your active input will be more fulfilling than those which are passive and solitary. It can also help to reflect on what things trigger unhealthy technology use and take extra care in these moments. If you know you overuse your phone before bed, for example, place it in a different room and read a book instead. One of the best things you can do is train yourself to stop and consider "is this what I really want to do right now?", every time you engage with these devices. What you can do: Limit your engagement with these devices to a healthy level. Set reminders to keep you aware of how long you are spending with these technologies, create "device-free" times throughout the day, and even delete the app or sell the product if necessary. Use these devices in ways you know will improve your wellbeing rather than damage it. For example, replace solitary and passive activities (scrolling your Instagram feed) with active and social actions (messaging friends and family). Write to politicians, sign petitions, and use your vote, to encourage greater regulation for these tech companies. To learn more, watch The Social Dilemma on Netflix and check out the Center for Humane Technology

Factory farming is a system of animal agriculture that involves an extreme level of control over animals' lives to maximise meat production while minimising cost. Unfortunately, the approaches taken in factory farming significantly reduce the quality of life for the animals involved. It also causes a number of environmental, social, and health-related issues. Despite this, there has been little effort from governments or businesses to reduce its prevalence or negative impacts. Exactly what factory farming involves will vary for different kinds of animals. There are a few overarching themes, however. The biggest one is the treatment of animals as commodities rather than living beings. This leads to money being valued more highly than the animals' welfare and basic needs. Related to this is a focus on large-scale production and efficiency. This often leads to a large number of animals being confined to small living spaces, including indoor sheds, cages, crates, or pens. Hormones and breeding practices are often used to distort these animals' bodies in the name of greater meat production at the expense of their welfare. One example is selective breeding to make chickens reach slaughter weight three times faster, causing several skeletal and cardiovascular issues. Unfortunately, these cruel, overcrowded conditions create the perfect environment for diseases to cultivate. Because giving animals a more ethical environment would reduce profit, however, these farms pump the animals full of antibiotics instead of addressing the underlying issue. When these seep into the environment, they allow microbes to become resistant, making it harder for us to fight certain illnesses. Factory farming places a significant toll on the environment. The amount of water, fossil fuels, and land used in these farms is significant and unsustainable. Animal waste and the pesticides used in the animal feed contaminate waterways to the point that some become dead zones unable to support life! Due to long hours, exposure to disease, and simply the nature of the work itself, workers at factory farms are more likely to suffer from physical and psychological problems. Further, these environmental and health impacts more greatly affect the rural communities surrounding these farms compared to other populations. This list of problems is only scratching the surface. Still, I'm sure you are already wondering how to avoid contributing to this cruel practice. What you can do: Learn more at Voiceless You can stop the problem at its source by reducing or eliminating animal products from your diet. This isn't always easy, so try to remember it is a gradual process. Animals Australia is a great place to go for more tips. If you continue to eat animal products, look for those which are independently certified by organisations like the RSPCA. The ethical standards for these items are higher, although far from perfect. If buying meat, Sustainable Table's Ethical Meat Suppliers Directory will help you find butchers offering free range and organic meat. Find cafes and restaurants serving higher welfare food near you at RSPCA's Choose Wisely website.

Farmers who are certified get a minimum price for their beans, protecting against unpredictability. They also receive a premium to invest in their business or local community. Another plus is the audits which aim to prevent child and forced labour, discrimination, and other poor work conditions. A more ideal solution is to buy from companies that both grow and roast the beans themselves. This cuts out the multinationals taking the profits and ensures equitable pay for growers. What you can do: Buy coffee that is sustainably grown and roasted here in Australia. Look for products with the certified Fairtrade symbol, preferable from from small, independent, Australian-owned roasters.

Artisanal and Small-scale Mining (ASM) refers to mining conducted with low-tech machinery and physical labour. Independent reports have consistently recorded the poor working conditions in supplier companies. In 2012 a report of ten electronics manufacturers in China found the average overtime of employees was between 100-130 hours per month - well in excess of the maximum 36 hours allowed under Chinese law. 11 hour days with very few days off are common. See 'Who Pays the Price? The Human Cost of Electronics' See 'The Truth of the Apple iPad Behind Foxconn's Lies' See RankaBrand's Sustainable Electronics Report 2014

They also need to put in place practices that: maintain or improve soil health, equitably manage water, are appropriate for the local ecosystem, minimise water and ground pollution, preserve native species, prioritise animal welfare, and more. Organic products have many benefits for the environment, health, and animal welfare. Organic farms result in greater biodiversity, better soil and water quality, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and an overall more sustainable agricultural system. A certain level of animal welfare is also required for certified organic products. Studies show that those who eat organic have significantly lower exposure to pesticides. Organic produce also tends to have more vitamins, antioxidants, and good fats. While the evidence is still developing on whether these lead to a significant health difference, they are certainly a solid indicator. However, it is important to take care when buying organic products. Just because something is labelled as organic does not necessarily mean it is. Australian products sold locally do not need to be certified or meet the national standard to be labelled organic. Instead, companies simply need to be able to "substantiate their claims". To ensure your product is organic, you should look for certification. Examples are Australian Certified Organic, Biological Farmers of Australia, and NAASA. It should also be noted that organic foods tend to have a lower yield. This means that more land needs to be cleared to meet the same demand, bringing its own environmental issues.  Buy directly from farmers who use organic methods, or subscribe to an organic box service that delivers organic food to your door at regular intervals. You can find farmers' markets and other organic retailers in your area with Local Harvest. Choose products that are certified organic or biodynamic under one of the following labels: ACO, BFA, NAASA, Demeter. Find out which fruits and vegetables expose you to the most and least pesticides so you'll know which ones to buy organic, and which conventionally grown ones are okay when organic isn't available.

Political donations also provide donors with direct access to ministers. An example is getting plenty of time to speak to them over a fundraiser dinner. This lets donors influence the government in ways not available to regular Australians. The vast majority of donation money comes from large companies, and in the case of the Labor Party, unions too. Aside from Clive Palmer, who donated $84 million to his own party, top donors for the 2019 election include Sugolena Pty Ltd, who donated $4 million to the Liberal Party; Pratt Holdings, who gave around $1.5 million across both major parties; and the Australian Hotel Association, who have previously lobbied against poker machine reform and gave $500,000 to the Coalition and $800,000 to Labor. With so many large donations, many experts are concerned about the influence these companies hold over our politicians. Donations under a specific monetary value do not need to be publicly disclosed. In 2021-22 this value was $14,500. However, this is per branch of the party, not the overall amount donated. Suppose one were to donate $14,500 to the national and eight state/territory branches of a political party. In that case, contributions of up to $130,500 could be given without it needing to be disclosed. The high threshold and potential for loopholes mean that around half of the private funding for the major political parties remains a secret. There have been calls to change the system, including a 2020 bill introduced by Senator Jacqui Lambie, however reform is yet to embaced by the major parties.  What you can do: Avoid buying from companies that take advantage of the system with large political donations. You can check this by searching the Australian Greens website Democracy For Sale. Check out Open Secrets to learn about political donations in the USA Support minor parties and independents trying to make the system more transparent and place a cap on political donations.

China imposed a limit to the export of rare earth minerals in 2009, citing the need to conserve a dwindling resource and limit environmental damage from mining. The United States and others challenged the quotas in 2012 in a WTO complaint, which was upheld in January 2015 with export restrictions dropped. Australia, the third largest producer of rare earth minerals, is responsible for 2.0% of world production and has 3.9% of the world's reserves. Further information on rare earth resources in Australia, including interactive map See 'Why We Need Rare Earth Elements' (a great introduction) See 'The Global Race for Rare Earths' See 'National Security, Rare Earth Elements'

Finally, minimise the need for repairs in the first place by spending your money on goods which have long lives and can more easily be repaired. Find your closest repair cafe, where volunteers show you how to fix your own stuff. Australian Repair Network has a helpful map of repair cafes around Australia (at the bottom of the linked webpage). Find repair guides for everything from electronics and appliances to clothing and cars at iFixit. If you can't repair something yourself, hire an independent repairer. Support companies that are committed to making long lasting durable products which facilitate self-service repairs or repairs from independent repairers. You can use repairability ratings provided by websites like iFixit to help.