Go Green Radio

Today’s guest is Lisa Hymas, senior editor at Grist.org, the nation’s leading environmental news site. She coined the acronym GINK, which stands for green inclinations, no kids, to describe a small but growing group of people who are both environmentally conscious and childfree by choice. The childfree choice often raises disapproving eyebrows in our society, even among environmentalists, but the green benefits are clear. According to a 2009 study by statisticians at Oregon State University, having one less child can reduce greenhouse gas emissions almost 20 times more than other eco-practices like driving a high-mileage car or using energy-efficient appliances and light bulbs. Are we seeing the makings of a new cultural revolution – childfree, proud and green?