tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-50381623048708751762024-03-12T20:37:39.774-07:00Friends For A Green WorldFriends For A Green World educates and inspires each one of us to do what we can to make the transformation to sustainable living. How can we be more eco friendly? What is an eco friendly life? Are there great green products to make this simpler? Friends For A Green World will highlight stories and advice on how to be more environmentally friendly.
Remember: Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-35571825716816932532013-02-04T15:13:00.000-08:002013-02-11T21:23:40.953-08:00Change Your Margins<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Want to live an eco-fr<span style="font-size: large;">iendly life?</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Here's another terrific and terrifically simple way to make a contribution to the sustainable living movement</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Best part - <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">it doesn't cost anything</span>!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Here's an excerpt<span style="font-size: large;">,</span> <a href="http://www.changethemargins.com/">Changethemargins.com</a> -</span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">"As I was doing my usual margin-changin' thang while printing out a document for my boss, a light bulb went off in my brain. What if you could get people to adopt changing paper margins on a large scale? What if you could get companies to adopt narrower margins as their printing standard? It would result in a lot less paper consumption. Which of course means saving a lot of trees and cutting down on a lot of waste...but only if a massive amount of people changed their margins.</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span></i>
<i><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's not a new idea. It's not complicated. But if we all did it, it just might work."</span></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">--Tamara Krinsky</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">There's more information at the EPA site <span style="font-size: large;">entitled, <a href="http://www.epa.gov/fec/" target="_blank">Federal Electronics Challenge</a>. "</span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"></span></span>The Federal Electronics Challenge (FEC) is a partnership program that encourages federal facilities and agencies to:</span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Purchase greener electronics</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Reduce impacts of electronics during use</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Manage used electronics in an environmentally safe way"</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Another great site<span style="font-size: large;"> I've discovered is the <a href="http://c.environmentalpaper.org/home" target="_blank">En</a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://c.environmentalpaper.org/home" target="_blank">viron</a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://c.environmentalpaper.org/home" target="_blank">mental Paper Network</a>. It offers loads of great information about paper, <span style="font-size: large;">and <span style="font-size: large;">features a Paper Cal<span style="font-size: large;">culator<span style="font-size: large;"> to transla<span style="font-size: large;">te sustainable choices into <span style="font-size: large;">tangi<span style="font-size: large;">ble benefits.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWdGwL95NaUbHlRkpSZCAHorzHF4t0g4WKDn2EMBEAz_FVOm-sjG1PWAXYWCe7JsTbe6kOCqtSVcD3RVqgjl2lYG9BEMwU7FpEDLnyoDseuTg9jwCjIuKisa1o4QTjKGGCh85AwZqaPs/s1600/Paper_Calculator_400.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="71" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTWdGwL95NaUbHlRkpSZCAHorzHF4t0g4WKDn2EMBEAz_FVOm-sjG1PWAXYWCe7JsTbe6kOCqtSVcD3RVqgjl2lYG9BEMwU7FpEDLnyoDseuTg9jwCjIuKisa1o4QTjKGGCh85AwZqaPs/s320/Paper_Calculator_400.png" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Kudos to Tamara for living by the idea that <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter</span>. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Won<span style="font-size: large;">'t</span> you join her? Post your comm<span style="font-size: large;">ent and share that you've changed your margins and <span style="font-size: large;">taken one small<span style="font-size: large;">, but might<span style="font-size: large;">y step toward being <span style="font-size: large;">environmentally sustainab<span style="font-size: large;">le</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><br /></span></span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-23951118598993951902013-01-14T11:45:00.000-08:002013-01-25T21:48:05.789-08:00Air Filters and Flame Retardants<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHs0a7KasPLP07cAnzNRNXisRY5rfdbP-5stICSdRhYQ6WDv-EMZ9UrgvRAJ92s_f-ipYvNc7bg_-zELYAlcABbsIAgrJXaov6LSZ1h3bNvSlJQ7LzAH50L-60I8PIqxDmFw01y-yqI9U/s1600/harbour+logo+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHs0a7KasPLP07cAnzNRNXisRY5rfdbP-5stICSdRhYQ6WDv-EMZ9UrgvRAJ92s_f-ipYvNc7bg_-zELYAlcABbsIAgrJXaov6LSZ1h3bNvSlJQ7LzAH50L-60I8PIqxDmFw01y-yqI9U/s320/harbour+logo+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Have you wondered how the chemicals around you are affecting you?<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> There are so many synthetic chemicals in use that it can be dizzying to try sorting through the information. </span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">How can you live a more eco friendly life in the presence of these toxins? </span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">It helps to understand what you're dealing with. One ex<span style="font-size: large;">am<span style="font-size: large;">ple of these chemicals <span style="font-size: large;">can be found in our fu<span style="font-size: large;">rniture, clothing, bedding, carpet padding and more.<span style="font-size: large;">..</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">like flame retardants. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There's important<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> </span></span>information on the effects of common flame retardant chemicals and fertility<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> and according to <a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=flame-retardants-on-the-r" target="_blank">S</a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=flame-retardants-on-the-r" target="_blank">ci</a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=flame-retardants-on-the-r" target="_blank">entific American</a>, the use of these chemicals is on the rise.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Here's an excerpt<span style="font-size: large;"> from </span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">an article at </span><a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/028074_flame_retardants_infertility.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">NaturalNews.com</span></a></span>: "for every ten-fold increase in blood levels of four PBDE chemicals tested, there was a 30 percent decrease in the odds a woman would conceive a child during a month." This is a serious concern and illustrates the importance of choosing green products for your family and home.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">You can visit the </span><a href="http://ehp03.niehs.nih.gov/article/fetchArticle.action;jsessionid=1FE650D5C7D321A57B9D05840B5B7418?articleURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1289%2Fehp.0901450"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> for the abstract of the study. "Conclusions: We found significant decreases in fecundability associated with PBDE exposure in women. Future studies are needed to replicate and confirm this finding</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">In the meantime there are more reasons</span> than ever to </span><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=256163&m=29389&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Egreenlivingeveryday%2Ecom%2FAir%2DPurifiers%2Ds%2F95%2Ehtm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">detoxify y</span></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=256163&m=29389&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Egreenlivingeveryday%2Ecom%2FAir%2DPurifiers%2Ds%2F95%2Ehtm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">o</span></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=256163&m=29389&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Egreenlivingeveryday%2Ecom%2FAir%2DPurifiers%2Ds%2F95%2Ehtm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">ur ho</span></a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=256163&m=29389&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Egreenlivingeveryday%2Ecom%2FAir%2DPurifiers%2Ds%2F95%2Ehtm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">me</span></a><span style="font-size: large;">, your bedroom and your childrens' rooms. We can't eliminate everything, but we can create a healing environment where we sleep.</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrnM7cdrSZC-NIbmk0VvLHDyi5BDRERov6-tl18mafjxWTirdZF7atds4aELVsELrOsxDmg6l2NLy0iT7UwP244R7EihoSdm0fvMYWYdCmR0eY7SV_zhUwMEUocuN9frInurTcA8w4Ww/s1600/2299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdrnM7cdrSZC-NIbmk0VvLHDyi5BDRERov6-tl18mafjxWTirdZF7atds4aELVsELrOsxDmg6l2NLy0iT7UwP244R7EihoSdm0fvMYWYdCmR0eY7SV_zhUwMEUocuN9frInurTcA8w4Ww/s1600/2299.jpg" /></a></div>
<ol>
<li><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: x-large;"><b>Install a <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=158958&m=20018&afftrack=&urllink=theultimategreenstore%2Ecom%2Fp%2D2299%2Dbedroom%2Dmachine%2Dair%2Dpurification%2Dsystem%2D76499%2Easpx" target="_blank">quality air filter</a>. It should be capable of removing volatile organic compounds, as well as mold spores. </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: x-large;"><b>Use <a href="http://theultimategreenstore.com/p-1330-organic-cotton-300-tc-percale-sheets-bedding-40-323.aspx" target="_blank">organic bedding</a>.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: x-large;"><b>Use toxin-free flooring.</b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: x-large;"><b>Use low voc paint.</b></span></li>
<li><b><span style="font-family: Times; font-size: x-large;">Keep computers & tv's out of bedrooms.</span></b></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-family: Times; font-size: large;">The Environmental Working Group offers more excellent information in this article: <span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><a href="http://www.ewg.org/pbdefree" target="_blank">Reducing Your Exposure to PBDEs in Your Home</a>.</span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><b>Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than </b></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><b>thinking that a little won't matter.</b></i></span></div>
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-38252931428126357882013-01-11T11:07:00.000-08:002013-01-25T22:02:12.098-08:00Live Simply, And Greenly, That Others May Live<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgETRldM0Wa7LZyv4tow0eHOLbEvKpyuMLr_rCjwe6ry0vFY-QeO0vQAjsevtwWvCuZtOCUVKqnC0_EKpl2JCm8xNU_4mXJHr9hpY-mHyznUUvT3bWKzYhiLpTOdasIrb_sexr1ip4_8vk/s1600/iStock_000003704088Medium.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgETRldM0Wa7LZyv4tow0eHOLbEvKpyuMLr_rCjwe6ry0vFY-QeO0vQAjsevtwWvCuZtOCUVKqnC0_EKpl2JCm8xNU_4mXJHr9hpY-mHyznUUvT3bWKzYhiLpTOdasIrb_sexr1ip4_8vk/s320/iStock_000003704088Medium.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">How to go <span style="font-size: large;">green is pretty</span> cha<span style="font-size: large;">llenging if you try to <span style="font-size: large;">do everyt<span style="font-size: large;">hing at once</span></span>. You may find it easier to start with <span style="font-size: large;">small <span style="font-size: large;">steps, literally.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.naturallifemagazine.com/0902/staying_green_while_going_lean.htm">Natural Life Magazine</a> offers ease - y, baby steps anyone of us can try that combine the concepts of sustainability and economy. Take for example, the suggestion to make one of those "2 mile or less" trips on foot or bike. Most people have access to at least one of those modes of transportation. The added benefit being that the exercise, itself, can increase one's sense of wellbeing and contribute to a healthy body.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another powerful<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> environmental<span style="font-size: large;">ly friendly</span></span>, yet simple, </span>choice each one of us can make is to embrace a <a href="http://www.naturallifemagazine.com/0812/grass-fed_beef_green_humane_healthful.htm">beef-free diet</a> - as writer, professor, Gene Sager notes, <span style="font-style: italic;">"I am afraid the bottom line is this: Beef production is a complex, messy and inefficient business. Compared to producing vegetables and grains, beef production involves much more energy<span style="font-size: large;">...</span>"</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Beginning a path to sustainability by eliminating beef can be painless, and impactful, as it is the commercial, feedlot beef industry that creates such a treme<span style="font-size: large;">n</span>dous amount of greenhouse gases, as well as water and ground pollution. Recently, there's also been a<span style="font-size: large;"> lot of attention on<span style="font-size: large;"> the heavy use <span style="font-size: large;">of antibiotic<span style="font-size: large;">s for the <span style="font-size: large;">steer and <span style="font-size: large;">the im<span style="font-size: large;">pac<span style="font-size: large;">t this is having on <span style="font-size: large;">our health.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>The Protein Qu<span style="font-size: large;">estion</span></b></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">While creating a vegetarian diet is a worthy goal, for so many of us it's like contemplating moving to a third-world country - disorienting and a little scary. I have found a few protein sources that are non-animal products th<span style="font-size: large;">at</span> offer a healthy dose of those amino acids - proteins - that we all need to be healthy. They also, interestingly, offer a variety of the essential fatty acids.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">One item I recommend is <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fcatalogsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fcat%3D5%26order%3Drelevance%26dir%3Ddesc%26q%3Dhemp%2Bseeds%26search%2D" target="_blank">Hemp Seeds</a> - they are tasty, light and very satisfying. They provide all the amino acids needed by humans as well as those <a href="http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-kitchen-11/omega-fatty-acids" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Omega fatty acids</span></b></a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Another item is Barley Grass extract. It contains 19 of the 22 known amino acids, including the 8 essential amino acids the body does not produce itself. The facts on this wonder food are amazing - email friendsforagreenworld@gmail.com for a booklet; it costs $3.95 plus shipping.</span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The A<span style="font-size: large;">lpha & The Omega</span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">And what about those </span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-kitchen-11/omega-fatty-acids" target="_blank"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Omega fatty acids</span></b></a></span> - fish sources are tricky, both from an environmental and purity perspective - what about a combination of <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fcatalogsearch%2Fresult%2F%3Fcat%3D5%26dir%3Ddesc%26order%3Drelevance%26q%3Domega%26quality%5Fmade%5Fsustainably%3D382" target="_blank">non-animal sources</a> like flax, red algae and cranberry seed oils?<span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">How Simple <span style="font-size: large;">Is <span style="font-size: large;">Sustainability?</span></span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">It can be as simple as walking one time this week. It can be as simple and money-saving as not buying any beef this week. It can be as simple as finding safe, organic sources of protein and omegas.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Make a choice to incorporate one of these actions today. You will educate and inspire the rest of us as you help us move toward a sustainable world. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Every change is valuable; every story powerful. It is our stories and the sharing of them that create connnect<span style="font-size: large;">ion</span>. </span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">You may be the story that changes someone's perspective, perhaps, even a life.</span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Send us <span style="font-style: italic;">your</span> story - tell us what choice, big or small, you made today to move us toward sustainability. Let us post your choice, a pic, a video - to inspire all of us and affirm our choices.</span><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large; font-weight: bold;">thinking that a little won't matter.</span></i></div>
Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-91547944306491075352013-01-10T10:27:00.000-08:002013-01-11T13:53:17.714-08:00Isn't It Disappointing?<span style="font-size: x-large;">Isn't <span style="font-size: x-large;">it di<span style="font-size: x-large;">sappointing when someone you trust turns out to be <span style="font-size: x-large;">dishonest?</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">A few months ago, I saw a list of companies that spent large amounts of money to defeat Prop. 37, here in California. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Too many of these companies are ones that I have trusted.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">I'm disappointed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Now, I'm informed and have changed <span style="font-size: x-large;">my shop<span style="font-size: x-large;">ping list to <span style="font-size: x-large;">eliminate the pretenders. Be empowered and choose what's best for you. </span></span></span>In case you don't know who owns some of your favorite "organic" food brands, here's the list from <a href="http://www.cornucopia.org/2012/08/prop37/" target="_blank">Cornucopia</a>:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s05zUvY7peSSRyx5nlAIU4KzZtZ8Qnx4b0GdeTu2NwgCZ-vNjsBLRLNU2z8wLG17cqbhS6Vdsl_7kx5eFHqO1Uvt4dUgpGKkVc86pZvYWdj0BWx6YKkDnD0P_GuGHa_XVNp1r_wH1vQ/s1600/prop37-poster+jpg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5s05zUvY7peSSRyx5nlAIU4KzZtZ8Qnx4b0GdeTu2NwgCZ-vNjsBLRLNU2z8wLG17cqbhS6Vdsl_7kx5eFHqO1Uvt4dUgpGKkVc86pZvYWdj0BWx6YKkDnD0P_GuGHa_XVNp1r_wH1vQ/s640/prop37-poster+jpg.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/038112_prop_37_boycott_brands.html" target="_blank">Natural News</a> has provided a handy boycott list:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLADersNb1YZTHXk97fQlqC-UtMdTSfBSndYFAW7QXwFNd2Kgm-YiJwcQs4E1L-9-MqttpGuhGMSAXRXP88Eln3EwSWlsejJXUzFfT3ztv2iqW8H_l9d_yfXDw1um-gZt4eC5ph4y_6GM/s1600/Boycott+for+Prop+37.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="626" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLADersNb1YZTHXk97fQlqC-UtMdTSfBSndYFAW7QXwFNd2Kgm-YiJwcQs4E1L-9-MqttpGuhGMSAXRXP88Eln3EwSWlsejJXUzFfT3ztv2iqW8H_l9d_yfXDw1um-gZt4eC5ph4y_6GM/s640/Boycott+for+Prop+37.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Both of these are printable and you can take them with you when you shop. I know I am going to.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"> <span style="font-size: x-large;">Another handy chart comes from <a href="http://www.cornucopia.org/who-owns-organic/" target="_blank">Co</a><span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.cornucopia.org/who-owns-organic/" target="_blank">rnucopia</a>:</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Who Owns Organic?</span></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzZEX4NurkNX0sy-K72aLSOMkdF1z64BX96eT18f0zj_ivFFPtbsIH2_ob8WJRXITZYSrHc6AlK1ixh1z413ggadGyWhIP-B_b_k7f5tlDd5HIgNSKNXMjemJgSxOIWCnMBrOGguZM7o/s1600/OrganicT30J09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHzZEX4NurkNX0sy-K72aLSOMkdF1z64BX96eT18f0zj_ivFFPtbsIH2_ob8WJRXITZYSrHc6AlK1ixh1z413ggadGyWhIP-B_b_k7f5tlDd5HIgNSKNXMjemJgSxOIWCnMBrOGguZM7o/s640/OrganicT30J09.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"> </span></span> </span><br />
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<br />Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-91349965147212870302013-01-05T15:45:00.001-08:002013-01-06T18:32:19.784-08:00What You Don't Know About Your Water Bottle<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid13Y5ygpOaqBRYHnWzh3UwNPFTtP2Wf5yBTyS0iYLheBk0FE40HJZR70QxHqjvgBZSv5WdeOmDkpkxf0RjvQhGbqdF2AfxZ0pRtpfgaTRXZniUrubx8Xu7Akp4Dvjk-1UZwJrF8ehMGI/s1600/world+in+hand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid13Y5ygpOaqBRYHnWzh3UwNPFTtP2Wf5yBTyS0iYLheBk0FE40HJZR70QxHqjvgBZSv5WdeOmDkpkxf0RjvQhGbqdF2AfxZ0pRtpfgaTRXZniUrubx8Xu7Akp4Dvjk-1UZwJrF8ehMGI/s320/world+in+hand.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">FriendsForAGreenWorld</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> wants to spotlight your choices which move us toward a 100% sustainable energy future. Let us know what </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">YOU</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> choose, today and everyday, that brings us closer to this goal. Large or small - your choice makes a difference.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">One important choice we each make everyday<span style="font-size: large;">: drin<span style="font-size: large;">king water.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Buying dispo<span style="font-size: large;">sable water bottles is harmful to you and to the envir<span style="font-size: large;">on<span style="font-size: large;">ment. The solu<span style="font-size: large;">tion is to use green products and <span style="font-size: large;">make eco friendly choices.<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">According to the American Water Works Association bottled water </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">costs up to 1,000 times more</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> than municipal drinking water. Even if it were only 100 times more it would still be an extremely expensive water delivery system. In fact, it's shown to be as high as $10 per gallon - making even our current gas prices look downright affordable.</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The global consumption of bottled water reached 154 billion liters (41 billion gallons) in 2004 and making the bottles to meet Americans' demand requires more than </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">1.5 million barrels of oil</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> annually. The Earth Policy Institute reports that this is equivalent to the fuel used by 100,000 cars for a year. A YEAR.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It's been estimated that we currently use up to 2.7 million tons of plastic globally each year to make the disposable water bottles. The types of plastic varies and with each one our environment's toxic burden increases. As an example, PET generates more than 100 times the toxic emissions compared to the same amount of glass. It weighs less, so transporting it generates less emissions, but it's </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">damage to the environment overall is greater</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> due to it's higher emissions and disposable nature.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">What are the options? All have an energy price tag. Stainless steel, glass, LDPE - all require energy, oil, e<span style="font-size: large;">tc., but they have one big plus<span style="font-size: large;">.</span></span> </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpDpsAaLFuNGOLEJaI-AtlQe5qvUOAqOuiEyihDowWJ_Uc3oPEL0BuEdcjhBLhPpYzcmFkun-tMUsWAnWMDNKdQotheWZNQMKFvc3SFcDgvgBJ4S1CUD3ZndyI3Tw6pOg9urLyP_KZ44/s1600/products_category_composite_insulated2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="276" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmpDpsAaLFuNGOLEJaI-AtlQe5qvUOAqOuiEyihDowWJ_Uc3oPEL0BuEdcjhBLhPpYzcmFkun-tMUsWAnWMDNKdQotheWZNQMKFvc3SFcDgvgBJ4S1CUD3ZndyI3Tw6pOg9urLyP_KZ44/s320/products_category_composite_insulated2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.kleankanteen.com/products/insulated/klean-kanteen-insulated.php" target="_blank">Kleen Kanteen</a></td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">The major benefits of the three listed above is that they </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">last so very much longer</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> than any disposable water bottle available. By the very nature of their shelf-lives they limit the cost to our environment. The Nalgene LDPE bottles I recently purchased from <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=60589&U=295284&M=9823&urllink=" target="_blank">ReusableBags.com</a><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=60589&U=295284&M=9823&urllink=" target="_blank"> </a><span style="font-size: large;">have lasted 4 </span>years, our<a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=60589&U=295284&M=9823&urllink=" target="_blank"> Kleen Kanteens</a> - even longer.<span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Take a moment to </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">make this small choice</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> - we'll all be so glad you did. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Then let us know, so we can share it with everyone. When others read about your <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?B=60589&U=295284&M=9823&urllink=" target="_blank"><span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><span style="font-size: large;">action</span></u></span>,</a> they will be </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">inspired</span></span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> and your personal choice will be made more powerful.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><i><span style="font-size: large;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than <br />thinking that a little won't matter.</span></i></span><br />
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-89225762783039450142013-01-05T13:17:00.000-08:002013-01-11T14:40:02.285-08:00To Bag Or Not To Bag - Your Trash<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xdTLKBYlI6eVFukjerTj_for8gnMJlspPCk_mgiU5ri3SRu8t0Xg85P40wRTsMeZuIYiw33CLCTmPOr30KnX5P-E8krPCW5fdfqftiuq1S5AdOkZRcL6J5a_AmmcM5sxOuIBLVG8a7I/s1600/no+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9xdTLKBYlI6eVFukjerTj_for8gnMJlspPCk_mgiU5ri3SRu8t0Xg85P40wRTsMeZuIYiw33CLCTmPOr30KnX5P-E8krPCW5fdfqftiuq1S5AdOkZRcL6J5a_AmmcM5sxOuIBLVG8a7I/s400/no+bags.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Have you ever been confused about <span style="font-size: large;">using<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> plastic trash bags<span style="font-size: large;"> just to send your trash to the landfill? <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Isn't the<span style="font-size: large;">re an alternative? </span></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">How 'bout</span> <span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> a <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fculinary%2Daccessories%2Dcleaning%2Dsolutions%2D6%2Dliter%2Dbio%2Dbags%2Dcompost%2Dpail%2Dliners%2D50%2Dcount%2Ehtml" target="_blank">compostable tras</a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fculinary%2Daccessories%2Dcleaning%2Dsolutions%2D6%2Dliter%2Dbio%2Dbags%2Dcompost%2Dpail%2Dliners%2D50%2Dcount%2Ehtml" target="_blank">h bag</a>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Great!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Or so I thought.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Then I </span>learned that <span style="font-size: large;">co<span style="font-size: large;">mpostable trash bag<span style="font-size: large;">s,</span></span></span> when used as a bag for <b><u>landfill waste</u></b>, add to the problem of methane generation<span style="font-size: large;">.</span> They are designed to be <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fculinary%2Daccessories%2Dcleaning%2Dsolutions%2D6%2Dliter%2Dbio%2Dbags%2Dcompost%2Dpail%2Dliners%2D50%2Dcount%2Ehtml" target="_blank">composted</a> and w<span style="font-size: large;">ork really well for th<span style="font-size: large;">at.</span></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Methane <span style="font-size: large;">v</span> C<span style="font-size: large;">O<span style="font-size: x-small;">2</span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">This is an important issue for us because methane has a more potent effect on the warming of the earth's atmosphere<span style="font-size: large;"><b> </b>than C<span style="font-size: large;">O<span style="font-size: x-small;">2</span></span></span>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"<i>Methane is the second largest contributor to global warming. It is a very effective greenhouse gas, 20 to 60 times more potent than carbon dioxide over the next 100 years. Emissions of methane have grown dramatically; methane emissions from human-related activities now represent about 70% of total emissions, as opposed to less than 10% some 200 years ago.</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>The effect of reduced methane emissions on mitigating global warming is powerful. Because methane has a fairly short atmospheric lifetime, and because it is so effective in trapping heat, efforts to reduce methane emissions will have a rapid impact on mitigating global warming.</i>" Gina Rodri<span style="font-size: large;">guez</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">So, what are <span style="font-size: large;">our</span> choices? W<span style="font-size: large;">e</span> can't use plastic bags because they photodegrade and leach toxic chemicals into the ground, which very well may one day leach into our water or our food. We can't use brown paper bags - they don't degrade in landfills due to the lack of oxygen. <span style="font-size: large;">B</span>io-compostable bags don't work as an environmentally sustainable choice either.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">What is the solution to<span style="font-size: large;"> our</span> personal waste management plan<span style="font-size: large;">s</span> - we recycle and we compost; what about the stuff going to the landfill?</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">The best advice I've seen so far is - NO BAG AT ALL for the landfill-destined trash. Use a small <span style="font-size: large;">trash can that can be easily rinsed out in the sink and because it fills up quickly, you'll be motivated to take it out and empty it often.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">It seems like a st<span style="font-size: large;">range conc<span style="font-size: large;">ept. Are you willing to give it a try?</span></span> </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPFBy0ajZEvHtO3X_Yy5gGSbznpcLOMDcaailAyPajXI1GyXt0h0u6gPBLc1ooSiux36SnXcr_9QaovIdMHxt8tJJMIiKh8QvKxsfv6Cla0KB06aDcQpwTW6bYTP93KmlAX7MLTPE_WU/s1600/earth+border+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="55" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPFBy0ajZEvHtO3X_Yy5gGSbznpcLOMDcaailAyPajXI1GyXt0h0u6gPBLc1ooSiux36SnXcr_9QaovIdMHxt8tJJMIiKh8QvKxsfv6Cla0KB06aDcQpwTW6bYTP93KmlAX7MLTPE_WU/s400/earth+border+crop.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span><b><span style="font-size: large;">Send us YOUR story - tell us the sustainable choice you made today. We need to hear about everyone making sustainable choices - you will educate and empower us to follow your example. Thank you for all that you do.</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><i>Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than <br />thinking that a little won't matter.</i> </span></b></div>
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-32205975655725881642013-01-03T13:59:00.000-08:002013-01-05T15:36:28.026-08:003 Keys To Clean Indoor Air<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfDcBKb5EinahMPuSFGwkQohu4r2GFr7v4HTf17wAsokCbZuYeQYjSt3ctReFarOq6uh_hRFHub82wkyN0-uJVnW3RzayOrhH4olXjhh7jWbGtK6eXOh5NGfArE_2eis4fQ_VASVaCc8/s1600/Hazard+guy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzfDcBKb5EinahMPuSFGwkQohu4r2GFr7v4HTf17wAsokCbZuYeQYjSt3ctReFarOq6uh_hRFHub82wkyN0-uJVnW3RzayOrhH4olXjhh7jWbGtK6eXOh5NGfArE_2eis4fQ_VASVaCc8/s320/Hazard+guy.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">WHY DON'T I WANT COMMERCIAL CLEANING PRODUCTS?</span></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">In a word: VOC's; in 3 words: Volatile Organic Compounds</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br />From M</span><a href="http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/494503_6"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">edscape.com</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><br /><i><span style="font-size: small;">"</span>These chemical compounds vaporize at room temperature into gases from multiple liquid or solid sources. The individual chemical compounds may differ in level present in any one location; however, the combination of multiple VOC's is of serious concern. These gases emanate from a vast number of items in the home and school and are suspected of causing "sick building syndrome." A few of the common sources are </i></span><i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">pesticides, solvents, cleaning materials, air fresheners, bleach, household cleaners, spray product propellants such as furniture wax or hair spray, and nail polish and remover</span></b></i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>. These products contain an array of chemicals such as benzene, chloroform, vinylidene chloride, and formaldehyde, many of which are known carcinogens. VOC's will likely be higher in new construction and indoor air. <span style="font-size: large;">"</span></i></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">(bold italics are mine)</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">For most of us removing the actual building materials that release harmful gases is unrealistic, but there are three actions we can take today to effectively reduce the amount of poison we and our children are exposed to.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">One: DO NOT USE toxic cleaning products.</span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Two: Install an excellent multi-stage air filter that ionizes without producing any ozone. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">T<span style="font-size: large;">hree: Make your own safe <span style="font-size: large;">cleaning produ<span style="font-size: large;">cts:</span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://www.care2.com/greenliving/make-your-own-non-toxic-cleaning-kit.html"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>How to make a non-toxic cleaning kit</span></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> - Follow the link to find 8 easy and economical recipes for creating a green housecleaning kit. At the end of the article you'll find an easy to read pdf and shopping list. These recipes will cost significantly less in dollars and in health.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPFBy0ajZEvHtO3X_Yy5gGSbznpcLOMDcaailAyPajXI1GyXt0h0u6gPBLc1ooSiux36SnXcr_9QaovIdMHxt8tJJMIiKh8QvKxsfv6Cla0KB06aDcQpwTW6bYTP93KmlAX7MLTPE_WU/s1600/earth+border+crop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="46" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLPFBy0ajZEvHtO3X_Yy5gGSbznpcLOMDcaailAyPajXI1GyXt0h0u6gPBLc1ooSiux36SnXcr_9QaovIdMHxt8tJJMIiKh8QvKxsfv6Cla0KB06aDcQpwTW6bYTP93KmlAX7MLTPE_WU/s320/earth+border+crop.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">thinking that a little won't matter.</span></i><br />
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-44644088676453118892013-01-03T09:03:00.000-08:002013-01-05T16:02:20.048-08:00What Procter & Gamble Don't Want YOU To Know<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">C<span style="font-size: large;">hoosing</span> an eco friendly life creates a win<span style="font-size: large;">/win. A win for your family, and a win for our green earth. The <span style="font-size: large;">products we b<span style="font-size: large;">uy make a big difference in our heal<span style="font-size: large;">th and the heal<span style="font-size: large;">th of the <span style="font-size: large;">planet.<span style="font-size: large;"> Have you thought about the difference using green products will make?</span>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There are many toxins in <span style="font-size: large;">ever<span style="font-size: large;">y<span style="font-size: large;">day products. <span style="font-size: large;">Becom<span style="font-size: large;">e info<span style="font-size: large;">rmed, make good choices and learn how to live <span style="font-size: large;">a more <span style="font-size: large;">environmentally friendly li<span style="font-size: large;">fe.</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Che<span style="font-size: large;">ck</span> what you need to know to protect your family<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">by<span style="font-size: large;"><i> </i></span>visiting the <a href="http://www.ewg.org/bodyburden/consumerproducts" target="_blank">Environmental Working Group</a>.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than </span></i></center>
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</span></span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-74197317901355730842013-01-02T22:24:00.000-08:002013-01-05T16:05:04.643-08:00MusicWood - Love Your Wood, Use It Responsibly<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">There's a wonderful campaign created by <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/">GreenPeace</a> called <a href="http://www.musicwood.org/index.htm">MusicWood</a>. When all the trees that guitars, violins, violas, basses and cellos are made from are cut down - what will the world sound like?</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">It reminds me of the Lorax and the Onceler. There are more business people in the world today who realize that the resource they make their money from must be sheperded, stewarded and husbanded - if those are actually words.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Fortunately, for us and for them.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Remember <a href="http://www.imdb.com/media/rm2940704768/nm0105186">Mr. GreenJeans</a>? If he were alive today he'd probably be sporting real green jeans, although after reading a number of recent articles I'm not sure there is such a thing.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Non-Organic Cotton</b> - bad, very bad. More insecticides than any other single crop! The spraying contributes to greenhouse gases, poor air quality, and since you and your children may be breathing that air in, sickness and even death. The runoff poisons our groundwater. Frogs, fish and flora all suffer for the "comfort of cotton".</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Organic Cotton</b> - not so great. Yup, you read it, organic cotton jeans aren't compatible with sustainable living. Precisely because they don't use pesticides, the yields are up to (or down to) 50% lower and that creates the need for even more land to be used to grow the cotton. Another unsustainable feature: all cotton requires about 1,500 gallons of water to the grow 1 1/2 pounds - the amount used for a single pair of jeans. That's enough drinking water for a family of 4 for nearly 2 years. Don't even get me started about the dyeing - the conventional dying alone makes jeans a poor eco-choice.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">I don't have any personal experience with hemp or bamboo fabric jeans - I'm going to have to go to our local Hemp Shak and take a look. As with organic cotton, the processing and dyeing can still be uneco-friendly, so the label must say "certified organic" in order to ensure the fabric as earth safe and human safe. This involves a substantial cost to the manufacturer, so we probably won't be seeing these at a big box anytime soon.</span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ruj4Duqlktw42ff8XEDe-g297CfOfWSCdmxxMdNt56yYU5znXQWHmlp_35fTlf-e8piDI6ORoOokyEfo2cRIWeSPAl1iyI4LfOGeI_FzJ4TddJLVaTkI9FDCPgraysJjAG4uSIMC6ds/s1600/bamb4.gif" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7Ruj4Duqlktw42ff8XEDe-g297CfOfWSCdmxxMdNt56yYU5znXQWHmlp_35fTlf-e8piDI6ORoOokyEfo2cRIWeSPAl1iyI4LfOGeI_FzJ4TddJLVaTkI9FDCPgraysJjAG4uSIMC6ds/s200/bamb4.gif" width="133" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.bamboofabricstore.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bamboo</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.bamboofabricstore.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Fabric Store</span></a></span></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><b>Bamboo </b>fabric is superior in that, like Hemp, it won't deplete the soil even after decades of planting with proper management. Bamboo also doesn't require replanting - the stalks are left in the ground and the shoots ..... they shoot right back up. No tractors and whatnot to put exhaust into the air and therefore a more sustainable choice.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">It's a complicated issue with lots to learn about - my suggestions are to begin with <a href="http://www.onearth.org/article/how-green-are-your-jeans">OnEarth's</a> article and also visit <a href="http://www.naturallifemagazine.com/0812/organic_fabrics.htm">Natural Life Magazine's</a> article. There's plenty of information out there - maybe start with something as simple as <a href="http://www.shareasale.com/r.cfm?u=295284&b=378539&m=40174&afftrack=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fnatural%2Dproducts%2Fhome%2Dand%2Dgarden%2Fnatural%2Dorganic%2Dbedding%2Ehtml%3Fp%3D2&urllink=www%2Eabesmarket%2Ecom%2Fnatural%2Dproducts%2Fhome%2Dand%2Dgarden%2Fnatural%2Dorganic%2Dbedding%2Ehtml" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">organic bedding.</span> </a> The great benefit to you and your family is that the 1/3 of your day spent sleeping will have fewer toxins near your skin. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than </span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">thinking that a little won't matter. </span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Share your story with us - what choice, big or small, were you able to make this week that brought all of us one step closer to a sustainable lifestyle. </span></span></span></span></div>
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-87960836043671841102013-01-01T10:52:00.000-08:002013-01-05T15:29:53.353-08:005 Tips For Choosing A Water Filter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yBKotQGni9DTKp0LaFNRkgd15OtQRNZHPpWQN9NBWY6xZZscyHcW8CWt-lI1FvPE44uqj5GpjiwWkz6yybxlzyDeGkni3KUa7mRWo4CLA6XG6XbwMI8xgDQwcMR6xUy35B0DuHI0cGs/s1600/waterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9yBKotQGni9DTKp0LaFNRkgd15OtQRNZHPpWQN9NBWY6xZZscyHcW8CWt-lI1FvPE44uqj5GpjiwWkz6yybxlzyDeGkni3KUa7mRWo4CLA6XG6XbwMI8xgDQwcMR6xUy35B0DuHI0cGs/s320/waterfall.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">We are fortunate to live in a country where water is piped directly to our homes. The days of hauling water from an outside source are over for Americans. However, there is a price we pay for this convenient and somewhat safe system. Somewhat safe because we make a trade - our water is disinfected and much disease is prevented, but what we disinfect with has its own dangers.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chlorine is universally used to chemically disinfect water. It kills germs, bacteria and other living organisms. Chlorine readily passes through the cell wall and attaches to the fatty acids of the cell, disrupting the life sustaining functions. Chlorine doesn't distinguish between a bacteria cell in the water or pipe and a human cell in your body. We know chlorine kills, that's why we use it; that it doesn't stop killing cells just because it enters our body is an important piece of information.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Chlorine also transforms into some very dangerous carcinogenic substances, like, <a href="http://www.ewg.org/chemindex/term/599">trihalomethanes</a>. These form when the chlorine interacts with organic material in the water that is being disinfected. Nearly all municipal water sources have been tested and shown to have trihalomethanes. The removal of these is recommended before drinking, washing or bathing in water.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">One half of our daily chlorine (and trihalomethane) exposure is from showering. Chlorine is not only absorbed through the skin, but also re-vaporized in the shower, inhaled into the lungs, and transferred directly into the blood system. In fact, the chlorine exposure from one shower is equal to an entire day's amount of drinking the same water, according to some estimates. Add to this the fact that vaporized chlorine forms toxic compounds, such as chloroform that remains in the air in your home long after the shower is over.</span></span><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></i>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><i>"Almost two decades have passed since known or suspected human carcinogens were first found in municipal water supplies. One of them, chloroform, produced by the chlorination process, exposes millions of Americans. The potential for a major public health problem is unquestionably there, and yet, progress has been slow."</i> -<a href="http://www.bidness.com/esd/showering.htm">Dr. Peter Isacson, M.D.</a>, Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1I0CrayFSVLlFlxu8-TNBxu9ZTJE2oAmlr1hMTZU0y_8EoMtcxjp81xsqCfHASylurxJ_w3UXZC82kmRPh_ClmLQ3nOPQ6zr4B5gwsKaTxaKSUcqxZbArpBULdMtRCQhiLWcrdIrFhX8/s1600/Harbour+ad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1I0CrayFSVLlFlxu8-TNBxu9ZTJE2oAmlr1hMTZU0y_8EoMtcxjp81xsqCfHASylurxJ_w3UXZC82kmRPh_ClmLQ3nOPQ6zr4B5gwsKaTxaKSUcqxZbArpBULdMtRCQhiLWcrdIrFhX8/s320/Harbour+ad.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Families with young children, people with compromised immune function and the elderly are particularly at risk when exposed to toxic chemicals. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">There are many point-of-use filtration devices which reliably remove harmful substances from household tap water. The <a href="http://epa.gov/">EPA</a> has a pamphlet available online and further information can be found at the <a href="http://www.nrdc.org/">National Resource Defense Council</a>'s website.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">The ability to control your family's water quality is priceless, but the cost of the tools to do the job doesn't have to be astronomical.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Use these 5 Tips For Choosing A Water Filter</span> </span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Research a variety of providers and technologies. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make sure the system doesn't waste water while cleaning it. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make sure the filtration system doesn't strip the water of all minerals and energy. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Choose a system that provides water of the proper pH for the body. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">Confirm the manufacturer's claims with the Water Quality Association and the National Sanitation Foundation.</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than </span></i></span></center>
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<i><span class="Apple-style-span">thinking that a little won't matter.</span></i></center>
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Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-13104383222139037582012-10-07T15:24:00.001-07:002013-01-11T13:55:56.147-08:00Best Way To Reduce Arsenic in Your Rice<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7qaZtjrVq-mVvec5z7xxkP-Z1tXwmHAqNyQ4YZrPzLtiEKWkBA4OzMpI87y1rYyide7q2CcfxJzTkuhtTfPi7nz99sCdmLcOXk0I3yrBbP8MqsIc76PQ4g1xKalezmJ5u3ULb_CnMY2d/s1600/ucm319871.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjL7qaZtjrVq-mVvec5z7xxkP-Z1tXwmHAqNyQ4YZrPzLtiEKWkBA4OzMpI87y1rYyide7q2CcfxJzTkuhtTfPi7nz99sCdmLcOXk0I3yrBbP8MqsIc76PQ4g1xKalezmJ5u3ULb_CnMY2d/s320/ucm319871.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Courtesy <a href="http://www.fda.gov/ForConsumers/ConsumerUpdates/ucm319827.htm" target="_blank">FDA</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Recently
the FDA and Consumer Reports have shown dangerous levels of arsenic in
our rice. It doesn't appear to matter very much if the rice is grown
organically or by synthetic-farming methods. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.enviroblog.org/2012/09/getting-arsenic-out-of-your-and-your-kids-diet.html?utm_source=2012arsenicsubb&utm_medium=email&utm_content=first-link&utm_campaign=toxic">The
source of the arsenic is in the water used to irrigate the rice, and
that was contaminated when arsenic-based pesticides were used in the
past, and that overall, many drinking water sources contain arsenic.</a> </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">There is a proven method for reducing your family's risk:</span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2009/EM/b816906c" target="_blank">"High volume water : rice cooking did effectively remove both total and inorganic arsenic for the long</a><a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=3438480730859620177">-grain
and basmati rice (parboiled was not investigated in high volume cooking
water experiment), by 35% and 45% for total and inorganic arsenic
content, respectively, compared to uncooked (raw) rice."</a></span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Based on this research, enjoy this recipe from Saveur.com: </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.saveur.com/article/Recipes/Perfect-Brown-Rice">Perfect Brown Rice</a> </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Cooking
brown rice, or at least cooking it well, is tricky. The goal is to
soften the texture of each grain's fibrous bran coating—a process that
takes longer than that called for in the cooking of white rice—without
causing the rice to become mushy. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">Unfortunately,
the labels on most packaged brown rice recommend an ineffective method
that suggests boiling water and rice in a two-to-one ratio, then
allowing the mixture to simmer for 40 minutes or more, until all the
liquid is absorbed. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">We
followed those directions and ended up throwing away more than a few
pots of unsatisfying rice. What we ultimately found is that brown rice
looks and tastes the best when it has been boiled and drained like pasta
and then steamed in the small amount of moisture that remains in the
pot. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">The
boiling cooks the rice, while the subsequent steaming allows the grains
to retain their integrity and come out light and fluffy. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">MAKES 2 CUPS
INGREDIENTS
1 cup short, medium, or long-grain brown rice
Kosher salt, to taste </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"> INSTRUCTIONS </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">1.
Rinse rice in a strainer under cold running water for 30 seconds. Bring
12 cups water to a boil in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid over
high heat. Add the rice, stir it once, and boil, uncovered, for 30
minutes. Pour the rice into a strainer over the sink. </span></span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">2.
Let the rice drain for 10 seconds, then return it to the pot, off the
heat. Cover the pot and set it aside to allow the rice to steam for 10
minutes. Uncover the rice, fluff with a fork, and season with salt.</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8ocmwtXIke-vswjV2UyOopngnSnoW5DM_SXxAmAcSuWNa01O9I1HLfTt68-w_1xA-LVIdPMfpRfLKz-hun9XOVTSrff69WY5ZYLbXZAoLrjfafBec0SxWpVG7-R7imdDKRA6zNIsFv6S/s1600/lil+chef.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs8ocmwtXIke-vswjV2UyOopngnSnoW5DM_SXxAmAcSuWNa01O9I1HLfTt68-w_1xA-LVIdPMfpRfLKz-hun9XOVTSrff69WY5ZYLbXZAoLrjfafBec0SxWpVG7-R7imdDKRA6zNIsFv6S/s320/lil+chef.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-9958821506337074322009-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:002009-01-24T18:40:52.430-08:00Naked Polar Bear<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">Even when the realities of climate change are scary- I find I must keep my sense of humor. In Taoism, to rise up in anger or fear against an enemy is to give that enemy power. To fight something is to give it existence. The antidote is to laugh, make friends, stand beside and point to the moon together - and then - GET TO WORK!!</span><br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/jDA0nBz02w8&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/jDA0nBz02w8&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-79350299525055151192008-12-29T11:45:00.000-08:002008-12-29T20:12:42.578-08:00Slow Down Sammy Hagar!"I can't drive 65!" is my new motto. I've been slowing down ever since I read that 55 saves more than lives; it saves on carbon dioxide emissions!<br /><br />It isn't easy to slow down - and yet, it feels strangely pleasant, like visiting an old hometown in the Midwest, where the people are peaceful and friendly, and the air is clean, and the sky is........<br /><br />Yes, it's downright pastoral to be the lone, unrushed driver on the freeway.<br /><br />It's helpful to use my cruise control on the long stretches, because otherwise there is a certain anxiety about tootling along at a speed 20 miles per hour slower than everyone else. It's made me really think about the importance of where I'm going and how long it takes me to get there. It lets me remember that my personal schedule isn't reason enough to contribute extra emissions to our environment.<br /><br />Dropping down to 55 mph isn't a big thing - it's a small thing, really, but it's one of many small things anyone can do to be a <a href="http://friendsforagreenworld.blogspot.com/2008/08/why-friends-for-green-world.html">friend for a green world</a>. It won't even cost you anything - except a little time.<br /><br />Join me, experience the nostalgia of the '80's and make this small, but thoughtful contribution to sustainable living.<br /><br />Here's some more info that will hopefully inspire you too.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.green-energy-news.com/arch/nrgs2008/20080056.html">Green Energy News</a>, July 4, 2008 – Vol.13 No.15<br />SLOW TO SAVE: RETURN TO A 55 MPH SPEED LIMIT?<br /><br />Finally, someone in Congress is considering a bold step to cut the cost of gas. Senator John Warner (R) of Virginia is suggesting that Congress might consider bringing back a national speed limit.<br /><br />Warner has sent a letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Samuel Bodman asking the department to look into what speed limit would provide optimum gasoline efficiency given current automotive technology. Warner also wants to know if the administration might support efforts in Congress to require a lower speed limit.<br /><br />In 1974Congress set a national speed limit of 55 mph because of shortages caused by the Arab oil embargo. The speed limit was repealed in 1995 when crude oil was $17 a barrel and gasoline was $1.10 a gallon.<br /><br />The Senator noted in his letter that studies had shown that the <span style="font-weight: bold;">55 mph speed limit </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">saved 167,000 barrels of oil a day</span>, or 2 percent of the country's highway fuel consumption. Up to 4,000 traffic deaths a year were avoided as well, with the lower maximum speed.<br /><br />From the <a href="http://www.greendaily.com/2008/07/31/spain-slashes-speed-limit-in-global-warming-overhaul/">Green Daily</a>:<br /><br />In an effort to cut Spain's dependency on foreign oil, the government has decided to enact a speed limit of 80km nationwide -- that's just below 50mph. According to a statement from Spain's industry minister Miguel Sebastián: ""Every time we lift our feet off the accelerator, we are improving GDP and employment."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little and doing it slower is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-15455011957698770082008-12-26T13:42:00.000-08:002009-01-08T22:36:10.522-08:00The Joy of Skoy!<span style="font-style: italic;">From our friends at </span><a style="font-style: italic;" href="http://www.recycledproducts.org/">recycledproducts.org</a><br /><br />A paper towel replacement for the holidays and beyond.<br /><br /> This new product is an economical and environmental alternative to disposable paper towels. The use you get out of one SKOY cloth is equivalent to 15 rolls of paper towels! The SKOY cloth is made from cotton and wood pulp, is non-toxic, produced chlorine free and is made using only water based colors and inks.<br /><br />You can use it as you would a paper towel or sponge and when it gets dirty it is durable enough to throw in the dishwasher or the washing machine. In between washings to keep it germ free you can immerse your SKOY cloth in water and microwave it for 1-2 minutes - no more germs! When your SKOY cloth has met its end it can be safely composted either in your back yard compost bin or in a commercial compost facility.<br /><br />The RPC proudly gives SKOY cloths two thumbs up as a new, innovative, resource saving, waste stream reducing product!<br /><img style="width: 163px; height: 127px;" src="http://recycledproducts.org/images/Products/Standard/skoy.jpg" /><br /><br />Thank you <a href="http://www.recycledproducts.org/">Recycled Products Cooperative</a> for all the work you do. Readers, don't forget to order all your sustainable office and home products from this worthy group. Just browsing the catalogue is an education.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-45244633291512636592008-12-23T08:10:00.001-08:002008-12-23T08:31:41.728-08:00Even Gamers Can Be More GreenIf you or someone you love is a gamer - <a href="http://www.nintendo.com/wii">Wii</a>, Playstation, XBox - the <a href="http://www.nrdc.org/energy/consoles/files/consoles.pdf">NRDC</a> has published a study on the impact gaming is having on our nation's energy consumption and the accompanying greenhouse emissions that results from it.<div>Why is this important? Well, it turns out that current energy usage for gaming is "roughly equal to the annual electricity use of the city of San Diego." (page 4)</div><div>Having recently become one of the '4 out of 10' households with a gaming console, I was relieved to see that by mere chance we had chosen the most energy efficient console, the <a href="http://www.nintendo.com/wii">Wii</a>. It hadn't occurred to me prior to our purchase that I should even check to see what the efficiency was. We'd do it if it was a frig, a tv, a car, but the energy conscious part of my brain was, until now, disconnected from my playing brain. No excuse, but enlightening. It is making me wonder what my other 'green blindspots' might be.</div><div>For owners of the less efficient consoles the <a href="http://www.nrdc.org/energy/consoles/contents.asp">NRDC</a> has recommendations for reducing energy consumption (page 24) - and this will save you money - while you lessen your carbon footprint.</div><div>This very helpful section of the <a href="http://www.nrdc.org/greenliving/guides/holiday.asp">NRDC</a> website is a wonderful place to begin or continue your education - who knows what I'll learn next.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter - make one small change, learn one new thing about sustainable lifestyle and you will educate and inspire those around you.</span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-56902839976411337752008-12-20T16:39:00.000-08:002008-12-20T17:05:13.087-08:00Eco My BrainI've learned about an interesting website, <a href="http://ecobrain.com/">Ecobrain.com</a>. I've found far too many interesting titles in just the first few minutes of looking. Here's their story from their site:<br /><br />"EcoBrain: Our Story<br />EcoBrain was started by two families living across the continent from each other - one in Canada and one in the US - who were both passionate about learning to live green and setting an earth-friendly example for their children.<br /><br />Both families also have publishing backgrounds. They love books, but they are also familiar with the environmental costs as well as the actual production costs absorbed by the publisher. So how can people learn more about the environment from the experts while helping reduce waste and costs? By selling books and other media in a digital format!<br /><br />EcoBrain knows it isn't always easy to get published. And the costs can be staggering. But by publishing in an eBook format, new publishers can produce and publish their material much more quickly, cheaply and profitably. Publishers who are going green can and should be rewarded for their efforts by earning more, while reducing both their own costs and environmental costs as well. EcoBrain makes it possible for publishers to get the green word out in a cost effective and environmentally friendly manner!<br /><br />The two families are proud of how EcoBrain has come together and how its conception has helped their children learn about new ways to help the environment. EcoBrain is becoming the green community destination and resource and continues to be a great success not only for publishers and authors, but for the environment. And that is how it should be.<br /><br />Best wishes from EcoBrain."<br /><br />I've wishlisted quite a few titles already, but this is the one I want to start with, since healthy homes are my passion as well as my business: <a href="http://www.ecobrain.com/product_info.php?products_id=1021%7B1%7D1&it=1">Homes That Heal (and those that don't): How Your Home May Be Harming Your Family's Health</a>.<br /><br />You can find more information about the why's and how's of creating a healthy home - a company called <a href="http://nikken.com/otherpage.cfm?templateid=169&themeID=2">Nikken</a> offers a Wellness Home - I encourage you to view the videos and learn how simple the tools can be. Every illness you prevent for you and your family translates directly into a healthier environment.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't make a difference.</span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-82733986340785023102008-12-02T18:56:00.000-08:002008-12-02T19:10:48.056-08:00Burning Questions, Hot AnswersThe December issue of <a href="http://www.motherjones.com/">Mother Jones</a> is titled "<span style="font-style: italic;">how to RESCUE THE ECONOMY and SAVE THE PLANET</span>" and offers alot of interesting news on the climate change/sustainable living front. One particularly useful segment offers answers to <a href="http://www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2008/11/burning-questions.html">"20 econundrums"</a>. Here are a few for your consideration and implementation. Painless, simple, effective - small actions that are bricks to begin building an entire sustainable living home. Go to the link above for the entire article.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Laptop or Desktop? </span> Laptops remain more energy efficient than desktop systems, but they're harder to upgrade, and it's usually better to replace individual parts than to buy a brand-new computer. Smaller desktops get better energy performance: Apple's Mac Mini has been estimated to draw about a fifth as much power as a Mac Pro when both are in idle mode.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Netflix or Video Store? </span> The mail carrier takes the same route every day, so a few dvd envelopes add little to his carbon footprint. Online rentals' computer use and packaging create a small amount of carbon, but the video store—and the schlep there—generates about 65 percent more emissions.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wash Your Car or Keep It Dirty?</span> It's true that a wash 'n' wax can reduce your wind resistance and boost your fuel economy. On the other hand, a layer of filth might even mimic a golf ball's dimples, encouraging air to follow a car's contours and minimizing the energy-sapping zone in the wake.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Disposal or Trash Can? </span> Disposals use less water all day than a single toilet flush and increase electricity usage by only 0.1 percent—and that's more than offset by the savings from flushing waste instead of trucking and dumping it. New York's Department of Environmental Protection found that ground-up kitchen scraps didn't clog sewers or treatment plants; another study suggests that trash collection produces four times as much greenhouse gas as disposals. Composting is best, but if your backyard pile isn't aerated—by a fistful of worms, for example—noxious bacteria will churn out more greenhouse gases per pound of waste than filthy city dumps.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Death: Buried or Burned?</span> When a conservationist croaks, what's the greenest way to say goodbye? The average cremation releases more than 35 pounds of carbon (burials generate fewer than 9), and high temperatures can vaporize dental fillings—in the UK, cremations create up to a sixth of the country's annual mercury emissions. Mowed and fertilized graveyards are hardly carbon neutral, so some cemeteries now recycle old plots; others are considering vertical burials. Swedish researchers have figured out how to freeze-dry bodies in liquid nitrogen; the resultant corpsicle can be ground into ecofriendly dust. But for now, best to splurge on a biodegradable coffin and plan on pushing up daisies.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-34917067832206569162008-11-25T10:53:00.000-08:002008-11-25T12:41:39.644-08:00Rock, Paper, ...... Dioxin?According to an article from <a href="http://www.emagazine.com/view/?1735&src">Emagazine.com</a>, loss of forests isn't just about the trees. What I mean by that is, the absence of the resource isn't the only bad news when it comes to America's paper habit. Those trees we just ran through our printers now can't filter out carbon dioxide, CO2, the most prevalent global warming gas.<div><br /></div><div>As I read over a variety of websites: <a href="http://ucsusa.wsm.ga3.org/publications/greentips/1102-tree-free-paper.html">Union of Concerned Scientists</a>, <a href="http://www.arbokem.com/">Arbokem</a>, <a href="http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=1240730">Environmental Health Perspectives</a> and others I was struck by the idea that paper, one of the tools civilization has been made wildly prolific by, has become one of the greatest sources of environmental threat. You see, once the trees are cut, the greenhouse gases increase and the pulp for the paper is processed in a highly toxic manner. According to <a href="http://www.emagazine.com/view/?1735&src">Jim Motavalli</a>, "the pulp and paper industry is the third largest industrial polluter in both Canada and the US, releasing more than 220 million pounds of toxic pollution into the air, ground and water each year."</div><div><br /></div><div>The chlorine used to bleach conventional paper creates a deadly waste called dioxin. This highly cancerous chemical is now found in humans the world over. It is found in breastmilk - this means every new born is given the gift of this poison all in the name of bleaching paper products. There are alternatives - whenever you buy any kind of paper product make sure it says its been produced with a chlorine-free bleaching process. This isn't just good for those babies out there - the <a href="http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs225/en/index.html">dioxin</a> created is ending up in your groundwater and fish.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:large;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">What can you do?</span></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div>Join the <a href="http://www.recycledproducts.org/">Recycled Products Cooperative</a>. Order your paper, school and office products from them. This can include tissues, copy paper and more. Tell your school, church and local government offices that you want them to buy recycled paper goods. Tell them you want them to <a href="http://www.changethemargins.com/">change the margins</a> on their documents. Then <a href="http://www.changethemargins.com/">change the margins</a> on your documents. Make a commitment to using only recycled paper goods - this will make an impact. You will make a difference. Tell others your story - let them see that change doesn't always have to be difficult and making changes now may mean less difficult changes later.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span></span></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-88099309664869969862008-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:002008-11-18T08:08:01.284-08:00Words of Wisdom"It is a curious situation that the sea, from which life first arose should now be threatened by the activities of one form of that life. But the sea, though changed in a sinister way, will continue to exist; the threat is rather to life itself." – Rachel Carson<div><br /></div><div>There are a number of ways our oceans are currently threatened - by pollution, climate change and human plundering. For two of these three outcomes we cannot argue our culpability. Some still argue our influence on climate change. Regardless of that argument, we can agree that sentient, evolved beings are ones who see the consequences of their actions and make choices accordingly.</div><div><br /></div><div>I read a book a number of years ago, <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ishmael_(novel)">Ishmael</a>. The author, Daniel Quinn, has come up with a unique viewpoint about how and why the human community, as we know it, has rationalized the taking of nature for our species' benefit. It's a viewpoint that is worth taking a look at because it raises questions that each one of us would benefit from answering. It's viewpoints like this that inform our character and subsequently shape the way we live our lives.</div><div><br /></div>"The world today will either be stepping forward into an era where conservation and the environment really matter, or it will be stepping back into the Dark Ages, where the people of the world think that the slaughter of whales using grenades, electric lances and shooting them with rifles is something that we should accept."<br />Ian Campbell, Australian Environment Minister - 57th IWC AGM, Monday, June 20, 2005<br />from<a href="http://www.whales.org.au/"> http://www.whales.org.au/</a><div><br /></div><div>Take an action this week - read a book, question the status quo, send a letter, fund a group that works to heal our environmental sores.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span></span></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-43265421823307193692008-11-17T12:27:00.000-08:002008-11-17T12:36:10.018-08:00Healthy Home CandlesIf you love the ambiance of candles and you are interested in a healthy home environment you will want to check these out: <a href="http://www.sparxcandles.com">SparxCandles.com</a>.<div><br /></div><div>I met the founder, Ally, and learned that she developed pretty serious asthma from her exposure to unhealthy candles. This personal experience led her to develop a product that is healthy, beautiful and environmentally friendly.</div><div><br /></div><div>Burning unhealthy candles puts poisons into your home or office air - things like lead, petroleum, zinc. It may seem like a small thing, but if you are concerned about a green world, even the small things matter and each time everyone makes a small difference, it adds up. These seem like excellent holiday gifts - pretty, aromatic, useful and clean for your home.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't make a difference.</span></span></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-78578923669993549982008-11-11T07:07:00.000-08:002008-11-11T07:07:00.349-08:00What happens when Dr. Who meets Captain Kirk meets Greenpeace?<br /><br />This video<br /><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/R5l8iUNbLrI&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/R5l8iUNbLrI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-79480489295771407832008-11-02T11:02:00.000-08:002008-11-03T11:02:12.842-08:00Wikia GreenAnother great resource for making sustainable lifestyle choices and a place to share what you know - <a href="http://green.wikia.com/wiki/Wikia_Green">Wikia Green</a>.<div><br /></div><div>Here's an article on <a href="http://green.wikia.com/wiki/Sustainable_storytelling">Sustainable Storytelling</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div>Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-64558710732109931192008-10-27T12:14:00.000-07:002008-10-27T12:34:44.848-07:00Greenpeace Green Piece<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JniWdP0MO7s&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JniWdP0MO7s&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />This past Friday as my daughter and I left our downtown bookstore I spotted a young volunteer with a clipboard. Now, I'm involved, I believe in walking my talk, and yet when I saw that clipboard I veered off to the right (how Freudian) in order to not be spotted.<br /><br />Luckily for me, Brenna hailed me down. Turns out she was visiting our sleepy burg on behalf of <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/">Greenpeace</a>. Wow, haven't thought about them for awhile - I'm all <a href="http://nrdc.org/">NRD</a>C, <a href="http://wecansolveit.org/">WeCanSolveIt.or</a>g, solar, geothermal.........<br /><br />After we spoke, I happily pledged my $15 and signed on as a sticker sporting Greenpeace Rainbow Warrior and then came home. This morning while cleaning out my bag I came across the pamphlet I'd received and decided, yeah, I'll write about Greenpeace, see what they're up to now.<br /><br />There's plenty of material on <a href="http://youtube.com/">YouTube</a> and the video above is a great trip into history - remember when those people put their lives in danger to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">protect whales, seals, oceans, forests, you and me?</span></span> I do. <div><br /></div><div>I just haven't thought about them because today's activism happens more in a courtroom than jumping from a dinghy onto the harpooned body of a whale out in the deep international waters of our oceans. Today, I sign up online, blog online, join in the petitions online. All good things to do. It's given me a pipeline to activism that lets me keep my day job (or would, if I had one).<br /><br />So, while you and I are making our uncomfortable and inconvenient sustainable lifestyle choices, let's remember two things:<br /><br />The early pioneers of <a href="http://www.greenpeace.org/usa/">Greenpeace</a> and<br /><br /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family:'trebuchet ms';">Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span></span><br /><br /></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5038162304870875176.post-43961859286959130072008-10-22T17:48:00.000-07:002008-10-22T18:02:52.133-07:00Thank you, Kris in Indiana<div><br /></div>Check out this very good <a href="http://www.care2.com/c2c/share/detail/910497">blog by Kris</a> in Indiana about CFL's. We've heard about 'em, we've read about 'em - they make alot of sense, economically and environmentally. In San Luis Obispo County the Integrated Waste Management Authority has a unique <a href="http://iwma.com/directory-aj/fluorescent%20tubes%20and%20bulbs.html">"SLO Take Back Program"</a>. If your local waste management agency doesn't offer this, forward this on to them and inspire them to get started.<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.</span><br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/7IBG2V98IBY&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/7IBG2V98IBY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object></div>Zettehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13116141940101575877noreply@blogger.com0