Balancing Earth IRL explores the environmental impact of consumer habits, leveraging design, technology, and education to promote a more balanced, mindful connection with our planet. The guide was shaped by visits to Freshkills Park, feedback from educational experts, and a 2019–2020 partnership with Gaynor McCown Expeditionary Learning School, where team members facilitated workshops for over 240 9th-grade students. The goal is to connect people to Freshkills’ transformation from landfill to park and inspire meaningful actions for ecological health and renewal. It is part of Sound the Mound, a multidisciplinary initiative by John Roach and Andrew Shea of Parsons School of Design, in collaboration with Freshkills Park, Arable Labs, and Gaynor McCown.