Dear Dot, What is a smart plug? –Julia D. The Short Answer: A smart plug is a device (available on Amazon) that plugs into an outlet and into which you can plug appliances and other devices. You can...

Dear Dot, I’m a Harvard alum and a recent article in the Gazette indicated that organic food is no better than conventionally grown. What say you, Dot?  –David The Short Answer: There are many factors that determine if organic...

Dear Dot, I recently received a card that’s printed on “seed” paper — that paper that has wildflower seeds embedded in it that we, presumably, should plant. But with all the talk about planting native species,...

Dear Dot When I was growing up, I was told that, as long as a food can isn’t bulging, it’s safe to eat. Is that true? —Chris The Short Answer: A bulging can isn’t necessarily indicative of botulism,...

Dear Dot, While there are things I love about the holidays, the rampant consumerism depresses me. But friends and family still expect me to give them something. Any suggestions? —Steph The Short Answer: There are many ways to...

Dear Dot, Does Dot know anything about responsible investing for 401(k) plans? I was looking at mine last night and realized I have an aggressive portfolio and know nothing about the companies. —Ali Dear Ali, While Dot tends to...

Dear Dot, I’ve heard that bike transit could really help fight climate change but New York City sometimes feels very anti-bike (and dangerous!). Why aren’t cities embracing bicycle infrastructure? –Kyle, Brooklyn The short answer: While more cities are...

Dear Dot, I’m looking for bed sheets that are both happy to sleep on, and aren’t bad news for our environment. What should I look for? —Dawn My dear Dawn, Are you the same Dawn who wanted to deter...

Dear Dot, I always see in hotels that they're making a "green" choice by not changing sheets and towels every day unless requested. I know this was not always their policy, so has it actually made...