Friends For A Green World

Hysterical bubbles! (original) - laughing baby

2011-11-27T19:43:00.000-08:00

The story of SIP

2011-08-13T12:58:00.000-07:00

Certified Sustainable Vineyards & Sustainable Wines

The SIP™ logo reflects care for people, farms, and the environment. Certified grape growers preserve and protect nature while treating their employees and communities with care.

Our award-winning program, developed over 15 years, continues to expand. It operates state-wide in California where we are considered industry innovators.

See SIP™ here.

What Procter & Gamble Don't Want YOU To Know

2010-05-11T21:03:00.000-07:00

Please visit Earthjustice and make your voice heard. You buy them, your family breathes them in, you don't even realize the impact these products are having on your life. Learn what you need to know to protect your family and hold this corporation accountable.

Here's a weirdly funny video

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

The Clean Water Question

2010-05-08T22:52:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

Chlorine also transforms into some very dangerous carcinogenic substances, like, trihalomethanes. 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.

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.

"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."  -Dr. Peter Isacson, M.D., Professor of Epidemiology, Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Iowa College of Medicine.
Families with young children, people with compromised immune function and the elderly are particularly at risk when exposed to toxic chemicals. There are many point-of-source filtration devices which reliably remove harmful substances from household tap water. The EPA has a pamphlet available online and further information can be found at the National Resource Defense Council's website.

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.

Research a variety of providers and technologies. Make sure the system doesn't waste water while cleaning it. Make sure the filtration system doesn't strip the water of all minerals and energy. Choose a system that provides water of the proper pH for the body. Confirm the manufacturer's claims with the Water Quality Association and the National Sanitation Foundation. It's possible to achieve excellent, healthy, quality water for less than 20 cents per gallon.

Then, eat, drink and bathe merrily, knowing you've given your family one of the most fundamental sources of life - clean, living, healthy water.

Toxins, Flame Retardants Latest Study Released

2010-02-02T11:45:00.001-08:00

There's important, new information on the effects of common flame retardant chemicals and fertility.

Here's an excerpt: "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." You can read the full article at NaturalNews.com

You can also visit the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences 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."

There is an action you can take to lower your risks. Learn about a Wellness Home - clean, energized air, clean, balanced water, restorative, safe sleep, whole-food, organic nutrition - give your body the tools it needs to combat the environmental stresses of your world. Visit this site to learn more.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Begin 2010 With Measuring...Your Energy Use

2009-12-28T22:16:00.000-08:00

For more helpful information visit the Energy Circle website.

Going Green with Clean Saves Green

2009-11-23T13:59:00.000-08:00

WHY DON'T I WANT COMMERCIAL CLEANING PRODUCTS?

In a word: VOC's; in 3 words: Volatile Organic Compounds

From Medscape.com
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 pesticides, solvents, cleaning materials, air fresheners, bleach, household cleaners, spray product propellants such as furniture wax or hair spray, and nail polish and remover. 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. (bold italics are mine)

For most of us removing the actual building materials that release harmful gases is unrealistic, but there are two actions we can take today to effectively reduce the amount of poison we and our children are exposed to.

One: DO NOT USE toxic cleaning products.

Two: Install an excellent multi-stage air filter that ionizes without producing any ozone. For information on one, visit my site: www.nikken.com/harbour, you can also view two videos here.

How to make a non-toxic cleaning kit - 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Recycled Products Cooperative News

2009-11-08T13:52:00.000-08:00

Recycled Products Cooperative has announced a partnership with Trees for the Future.

They are launching a project committed to restoring trees to the world's most degraded lands.

Recycled Products Cooperative is now planting 1 tree for every 30 cases of 30% PCW paper and 1 tree for every 10 cases of 100% PCW paper that we sell.

Each tree removes 50 pounds of CO2 from the atmosphere every year for the life of the tree (average life of trees planted is 40 years or more!)

That means 2000 pounds of CO2 in 40 years !!!

What can you do to become a part of this program? It's painless and simple, really. Visit their site: www.recycledproducts.org, then order your next supply of office paper and you will enjoy a more sustainable paper while contributing to the restoration of trees. Oh, and your kids will enjoy better air one day.

What Procter &

2009-05-11T21:03:00.001-07:00

I am the Lorax, I speak for the trees......

2009-04-19T15:45:00.000-07:00

100% recycled content paper products are a simple, painless, economical choice we each can make to live more sustainably. GreenPeace has a great new video - share it with everyone you know.

Climb Every Mountain, Ford Every Stream.....

2009-04-09T17:33:00.000-07:00

Watch this bag climb a mountain in Hawaii - when it comes to plastic bags, just say NO!
Courtesy of ReusableBags.com

Green Does Not Compute

2009-03-31T16:16:00.000-07:00

We're shopping for a laptop these days and of course my preference would be a Mac - we love the desktop and all the Mac features. The temptation to downgrade to an inexpensive PC is definitely there, though, with the sticker shock being so much less in many cases.

However, when I looked at Greenpeace's list of computer manufacturers that make the Earth-friendly grade I found the Guide To Greener Electronics.

It's put me back on track - a couple hundred dollars now - less toxicity later - sounds like a good deal to me.

Send us your stories about sustainable choices you're making today and every day. Sharing your story will educate and inspire those who need the help of your momentum to move toward a sustainable planet and a Green World.

A Water Word to the Wise

2009-03-15T09:38:00.000-07:00

FriendsForAGreenWorld want to spotlight your choices which move us toward a 100% sustainable energy future. Let us know what YOU choose, today and everyday, that brings us closer to this goal. Large or small - your choice makes a difference.

Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking a little doesn't make a difference.

If you drink water you may be interested in this. According to the American Water Works Association bottled water costs up to 1,000 times more 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.

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 1.5 million barrels of oil annually. The Earth Policy Institute reports that this is equivalent to the fuel used by 100,000 cars for a year. A YEAR.

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 damage to the environment overall is greater due to it's higher emissions and disposable nature.

What are the options? All have an energy price tag. Stainless steel, glass, LDPE - all require energy, oil, etc. I've found an interesting comparison on this website, www.sustainablebuildingcentre.com/forum-topic/environmental_properties_of_plastics

The major benefits of the three listed above is that they last so very much longer 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 ReusableBags.com I imagine will last at least a year, maybe more; our Kleen Kanteens - even longer.

Take a moment to make this small choice - we'll all be so glad you did. Now, take a look at a water filtration system that saves the environment, saves money and supports the Earth Day Alliance of San Luis Obispo. Visit our site and order your PiMag water system - the profits from these purchases will go directly to funding this worthy organization and their educational outreach.

Then let us know, so we can share it with everyone. When others read about your pioneering act, they will be inspired and your personal choice will be made more powerful.

"We are here!"

The Princess and The Pea Was Not Green

2009-02-24T11:55:00.000-08:00

In the story of the princess and the pea, as we all remember, she sleeps on 20 mattresses. Now, back then they were probably filled with straw or goose down and were not the landfill nightmare that most mattresses are today.

The facts are enough to lose sleep over.

Tom Watson, who writes a column called the EcoConsumer and is project manager for King County's Recycling and Environmental Services, states that "landfill equipment operators hate mattresses." Conventional, bulky mattresses don't compact well - that's one of their big selling points to us, the consumers. They contain metal springs that pop out and become tangled in the heavy equipment. The materials don't biodegrade easily, if at all. They are tough to recycle and horrible to dispose of.

When you consider that 23 cubic feet of landfill space is saved each time a mattress is recycled - it's a pretty important puzzle to figure out.

A great source of what the afterlife of a mattress can look like can be found here, at the Natural Resources Research Institute, University of Minnesota Duluth. The article details an innovative look at what materials in the mattress can actually be reused, resulting in less landfill waste and more efficient use of post consumer materials like cotton and steel. It's inspiring to see the creative thinking of this group benefitting so many.

What Now?

Here's a visual to keep in mind next time you're in the market for a new bed: "In just one day at a local landfill, more than 300 old mattresses and box springs arrive for burial. If you laid them out end-to end, they would stretch more than a third of a mile. And that's just from one day. Local governments have to spend more money to deal with mattresses than other types of garbage; we all pay for those extra costs." Courtesy of the Mattress Lady.

When shopping for a mattress really research organic mattresses or look into the type of mattress that uses air chambers, like the KenkoAire, by Nikken. Sleep systems that don't use the steel coils and that incorporate healthier materials like rubber, bamboo fabric and organic cotton will be better overall. Your home environment is improved, your sleep will be better and the afterlife of these products is like a dream come true for waste management agencies.

A good sleep system is an investment - you spend a third of your life in it - let your bed be one of your best friends and all your friends be - for a green world.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Eco Shopping Bags 101

2009-02-10T11:50:00.000-08:00

Friendsforagreenworld was created to educate and inspire everyday people about the ways in which our friends and neighbors are moving toward sustainable living. Telling your story is a powerful way to amplify the small and large choices you make each day to move toward our goal of 100% renewable energy sources in 10 years. Send your story, your pic, your video telling our friends what you did today to make a difference. Large or small, your actions matter and you can inspire those around you by showing yourself to be a Friend For A Green World.

Here is some information that can help you take one small step - if you've already mastered this one, share it with your community - email contacts, Facebook, Twitter, chat room, etc.

ReusableBags.com has the lowdown on the vast array of environmentally sustainable choices. I found this article particularly helpful. The word "biodegradable" is not a reliable indicator of a products true environmental safety.

"What About Biodegradable Bags?

Biodegradable shopping bags are made of polymers that degrade, or decompose, when exposed to air, water or sunlight. There are two main types:

1) The original biodegradable bags, introduced about ten years ago, are made from resins containing polyethylene, starches and heavy metals such as cadmium, lead, and beryllium. They are still on the market today.

2) About five years ago, a second type was invented using starches combined with biodegradable polymers or polylactic acid. Some of these claim to be fully compostable, meaning that they would break down to organic material suitable for plant growth.

At first glance, they may seem like a good idea, but a closer look reveals significant downsides such as:

Does nothing to address the consumption part of this problem which lies at the heart of this issue. Both biodegradable and regular disposable plastic bags require a similar amount of energy, natural resources and costs to produce.

Mixing of biodegradable bags in recycling systems for conventional plastic bags creates a sorting nightmare and can render entire batches of recyclable plastic useless.

Bag littering could easily increase as people start to believe that biodegradable bags are less harmful to the environment and will disappear quickly it takes at least 18 months for most to breakdown.

The breakdown of starch-based films in water consumes oxygen, resulting in oxygen depletion that contributes to algae blooms and the death of marine life.

Water, soil, and crop contamination could result from the use of compost with chemical residues from biodegraded bags. For more click here.

We're hoping too that someone will develop a magical plastic shopping bag that doesn't consume vast quantities of natural resources to make, and disappears immediately without a trace. In the meantime, do the right thing and BYOB - bring your own bag!"

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

MusicWood - Love Your Wood, Use It Responsibly

2009-02-05T22:24:00.000-08:00

There's a wonderful campaign created by GreenPeace called MusicWood. When all the trees that guitars, violins, violas, basses and cellos are made from are cut down - what will the world sound like?

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.

Fortunately, for us and for them.

Naked Polar Bear

2009-01-24T21:36:00.000-08:00

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!!

Where Are The Green Jeans?

2009-01-20T07:27:00.000-08:00

Remember Mr. GreenJeans? 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.

Non-Organic Cotton - 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".

Organic Cotton - 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.

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.

Bamboo 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.

It's a complicated issue with lots to learn about - my suggestions are to begin with OnEarth's article and also visit Natural Life Magazine's article. There's plenty of information out there - maybe start with something as simple as organic bamboo bed sheets - they are as soft as silk, naturally antimicrobial, enviro-friendly and actually affordable. 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter. 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.

STOP BUYING Kleenex! Yes, You CAN!

2009-01-15T21:26:00.001-08:00

Remember, doing a little - something as small as buying only the tissues made with recycled materials - is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

You matter.

Live Simply, And Greenly, That Others May Live

2009-01-11T11:07:00.000-08:00

It's a challenge - this living greenly, living sustainably.

Integrating the concept of Simplicity can, well, .... simplify things. GettingALife.org has a succinct description of these two, compatible life philosophies. Although, today, with Federal bailouts, massive layoffs, a financially draining military operation in Iraq and global warming on our front door step, I think it's difficult to find a place within ourselves free enough of anxiety to sort it all out.

Natural Life Magazine 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. Invest in a pair of CardioStrides from Nikken and you can cancel your gym membership along with all the guilt you feel for never getting there.

Another powerful choice each one of us can make is to embrace a beef-free diet - as writer, professor, Gene Sager notes, "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 and other resources, including the power for refrigeration of the product; and if grass-fed production grows, we face a global problem of grazing space, as it replaces other land uses. Finally, we have to consider a range of issues about humane treatment, issues that arise only in relation to animal products."

Beginning a path to a sustainable diet by eliminating beef can be painless, and impactful, as it is the commercial, feedlot beef industry that creates such a tremedous amount of greenhouse gases, as well as water and ground pollution.

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. Nonetheless, it is my personal goal to steer myself and my family in that direction. I have found a few protein sources that are non-animal products and I've had no problem finding certified organic versions - they offer a healthy dose of those amino acids - proteins - we all need to be healthy. They also, interestingly, offer a variety of the essential fatty acids.

One item I recommend is Hemp Seeds - they are tasty, light and very satisfying. They provide all the amino acids needed by humans as well as those omegas. 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.

And what about those omega's - fish sources are tricky, both from an environmental and purity perspective - what about a combination of non-animal sources like flax, red algae and cranberry seed oils? Check out Kenzen Omega Green & DHA for a great choice.

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 wearing shoes that 'work you out' while you walk - saving you money on a gym membership and increasing your strength and stamina. It can be as simple as finding safe, organic sources of protein and omegas.

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. Every change is valuable; every story powerful. It is our stories and the sharing of them that create connnectedness. You may be the story that changes someone's perspective, perhaps, even a life.

Send us your 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Pizza Fusion - The Green Pizza

2009-01-05T18:52:00.001-08:00

I was only paying half attention when a friend told me that there was a new, organic pizza joint in town. I'm a diehard organics person - our whole family is - but somehow I just didn't tune in. Luckily, I happened to be shopping nearby and was reminded of my friend's recommendation by the sign outside the restaurant, so I went in to order a couple of personal pizza's to go.

Wow! What a terrific place! The manager was friendly and welcoming, and when I told him I wrote this blog, he gave me the full story on Pizza Fusion and some of the unique features of our local one.

This is one terrific company. The two founders have made such a genuine commitment to a healthy menu and a sustainable business - I'm very impressed. I'm also thrilled to have a local food place that I can feel 100% good about. The commitment to sustainability is beyond any that I've seen in other restaurants in our area. Some others do commit to local and organic produce, which is wonderful.

What is outstanding is that Pizza Fusion has invested in the buildings being constructed according to sustainable guidelines, the delivery vehicles are hybrids, the employee shirts are organic cotton! The list of details they've considered and implemented are impressive and exhilarating. Yes, you can!

Visit their website - find your local venue or open one yourself - what a great business!

As the local manager, Mike, said "what could be more green than calling to order your organic pizza and having it delivered in a hybrid car?"

Oh, and the food is fantastic. You really can have your 'pie' and eat it too.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter. Send us your story about a sustainable choice you've made to move America closer to 100% renewable energy sources within 10 years - it might be as simple as ordering from Pizza Fusion.

Slow Down Sammy Hagar!

2008-12-29T11:45:00.000-08:00

"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!

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........

Yes, it's downright pastoral to be the lone, unrushed driver on the freeway.

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.

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 friend for a green world. It won't even cost you anything - except a little time.

Join me, experience the nostalgia of the '80's and make this small, but thoughtful contribution to sustainable living.

Here's some more info that will hopefully inspire you too.

Green Energy News, July 4, 2008 – Vol.13 No.15
SLOW TO SAVE: RETURN TO A 55 MPH SPEED LIMIT?

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.

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.

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.

The Senator noted in his letter that studies had shown that the 55 mph speed limit saved 167,000 barrels of oil a day, 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.

From the Green Daily:

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."

Remember, doing a little and doing it slower is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

The Joy of Skoy!

2008-12-26T13:42:00.000-08:00

From our friends at recycledproducts.org

A paper towel replacement for the holidays and beyond.

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.

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.

The RPC proudly gives SKOY cloths two thumbs up as a new, innovative, resource saving, waste stream reducing product!

Thank you Recycled Products Cooperative 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Even Gamers Can Be More Green

2008-12-23T08:10:00.001-08:00

If you or someone you love is a gamer - Wii, Playstation, XBox - the NRDC 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.

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)

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 Wii. 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.

For owners of the less efficient consoles the NRDC has recommendations for reducing energy consumption (page 24) - and this will save you money - while you lessen your carbon footprint.

This very helpful section of the NRDC website is a wonderful place to begin or continue your education - who knows what I'll learn next.

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.

Eco My Brain

2008-12-20T16:39:00.000-08:00

I've learned about an interesting website, Ecobrain.com. I've found far too many interesting titles in just the first few minutes of looking. Here's their story from their site:

"EcoBrain: Our Story
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.

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!

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!

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.

Best wishes from EcoBrain."

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: Homes That Heal (and those that don't): How Your Home May Be Harming Your Family's Health.

You can find more information about the why's and how's of creating a healthy home - a company called Nikken 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't make a difference.

Burning Questions, Hot Answers

2008-12-02T18:56:00.000-08:00

The December issue of Mother Jones is titled "how to RESCUE THE ECONOMY and SAVE THE PLANET" and offers alot of interesting news on the climate change/sustainable living front. One particularly useful segment offers answers to "20 econundrums". 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.

Laptop or Desktop? 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.
Netflix or Video Store? 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.
Wash Your Car or Keep It Dirty? 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.
Disposal or Trash Can? 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.
Death: Buried or Burned? 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.

Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Rock, Paper, ...... Dioxin?

2008-11-25T10:53:00.000-08:00

According to an article from Emagazine.com, 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.

As I read over a variety of websites: Union of Concerned Scientists, Arbokem, Environmental Health Perspectives 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 Jim Motavalli, "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."

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 dioxin created is ending up in your groundwater and fish.

What can you do?

Join the Recycled Products Cooperative. 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 change the margins on their documents. Then change the margins 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.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Words of Wisdom

2008-11-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

"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

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.

I read a book a number of years ago, Ishmael. 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.

"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."
Ian Campbell, Australian Environment Minister - 57th IWC AGM, Monday, June 20, 2005
from http://www.whales.org.au/

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.

Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Healthy Home Candles

2008-11-17T12:27:00.000-08:00

If you love the ambiance of candles and you are interested in a healthy home environment you will want to check these out: SparxCandles.com.

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.

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.

Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't make a difference.

2008-11-11T07:07:00.000-08:00

What happens when Dr. Who meets Captain Kirk meets Greenpeace?

This video

Change Your Margins

2008-11-09T15:13:00.000-08:00

Here's another terrific and terrifically simple way to make a contribution to the Sustainable Living Movement.........best part - it doesn't cost anything!

Here's an excerpt from Changethemargins.com -
"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.

It's not a new idea. It's not complicated. But if we all did it, it just might work."

--Tamara Krinsky

Kudos to Tamara for living by the idea that doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Wikia Green

2008-11-02T11:02:00.000-08:00

Another great resource for making sustainable lifestyle choices and a place to share what you know - Wikia Green.

Here's an article on Sustainable Storytelling.

Always remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Greenpeace Green Piece

2008-10-27T12:14:00.000-07:00

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.

Luckily for me, Brenna hailed me down. Turns out she was visiting our sleepy burg on behalf of Greenpeace. Wow, haven't thought about them for awhile - I'm all NRDC, WeCanSolveIt.org, solar, geothermal.........

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.

There's plenty of material on YouTube and the video above is a great trip into history - remember when those people put their lives in danger to protect whales, seals, oceans, forests, you and me? I do.

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).

So, while you and I are making our uncomfortable and inconvenient sustainable lifestyle choices, let's remember two things:

The early pioneers of Greenpeace and

Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Thank you, Kris in Indiana

2008-10-22T17:48:00.000-07:00

Check out this very good blog by Kris 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 "SLO Take Back Program". If your local waste management agency doesn't offer this, forward this on to them and inspire them to get started.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Correction on BioBags for Trash

2008-10-16T13:17:00.000-07:00

I recently learned that BioBags when used as a bag for landfill waste add to the problem of methane generation. This is an important issue for us because methane has a more potent effect on the warming of the earth's atmosphere.

As stated in The Greenhouse Effect And Methane, by Gina Rodriquez:
"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. Methane is a large contributor to global warming, second only to carbon dioxide. Its atmospheric concentration is 1.7 ppmv, much less than carbon dioxide; but each molecule of methane is twenty times more effective than each molecule of carbon dioxide at trapping infrared radiation (Mackenzie and Mackenzie, 1995). Its large contribution to global warming is due in part to its potency in trapping heat in the earth's atmosphere. It is 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.

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. Since methane is a large contributor to global warming, it is a very effective greenhouse gas. Moreover, the partial pressure of methane has been increasing much more rapidly than carbon dioxide (IGBP, 1990)."

So, what are my choices? I can't use plastic bags because they photodegrade and leach toxic chemicals into the ground, which very well may one day leach into my water or my food. I can't use brown paper bags - they don't degrade in landfills due to the lack of oxygen. Now, I've learned that bio-compostable bags don't work as an environmentally sustainable choice either.

I want a solution to my personal waste management plan - I compost, I recycle, I even put my plate and cooking scraps under our bushes when possible (not so good for meat scraps - another good reason for me to limit my meat consumption). The best advice I've gotten so far is - NO BAG AT ALL for my landfill-destined trash.

It does seem silly to me to be putting the little (hopefully) amount of plastic wrappers, unrecyclable containers, etc. into a larger plastic bag to be buried in the landfill. We have not achieved Zero Waste in our home, but it's a worthwhile ideal to keep in mind.

I'm thinking of starting an experiment. For one month I will collect my landfill-destined trash in a box in my garage. I feel like this will be an opportunity to get personal with my trash - not something many people would like to do - I totally understand. We don't all have time to get down and dirty with the reality of where our trash goes.

What can you do?

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.

PS - it can be this simple. According to Better Bags Colorado's website: The Sierra Club did a study showing that if every New York resident reduced their bag use by just one bag per year, this would reduce waste by 5 million pounds!

FOLLOW THE YELLOW BRICK ROAD

2008-10-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

I'm contacting our local waste management agency to see what headway I can make in our local government agencies converting to sustainable water for their offices and sustainable trash bags.

Meanwhile, I read that San Francisco, a miracle of sustainability-minded government, announced a challenge on September 30, 2008. According to sfenvironment.org, Mayor Newsom challenged SF businesses to go solar by this time next year!

If you thought Al Gore's challenge was, well, challenging, take a look at SF's plan to make it not only possible, but attractive for businesses to get on board.

According to the release, the 1,500 businesses who have been invited to join the Solar Founders' Circle "have the potential to install 170 megawatts of solar on their roofs - more than 30x's the amount of solar currently installed in SF, and enough to power 42,ooo local households."

It sounds like an exciting initiative and I'll be checking in to see what's become of this. This is exactly the kind of sustainability leadership that will make Al Gore's 10 year goal achievable.

What can YOU do? Send us YOUR story. What choice did you make today to live a more sustainable life? Send your first name, last initial, general locale, and what the greentech was. You will educate and inspire others to make the changes they can and more that they may have thought they couldn't.

ALWAYS REMEMER DOING A LITTLE IS MORE FULFILLING THAN THINKING THAT A LITTLE WON'T MATTER.

Renewable Energy and Efficiency Tax Incentives Renewed

2008-10-10T10:59:00.000-07:00

It wasn't perfect and it wasn't pretty, but the renewable energy industry got the boost from Congress we all need it to have. The tax incentives for installing renewable energy technologies were extended as part of the $700 Billion bailout.

Greg Wetstone, senior director of governmental and public affairs at the American Wind Energy Association, said in a statement, "We salute Members of Congress in both parties who fought under difficult conditions to keep the renewable energy production tax credit and small turbine investment tax credit on the agenda until the very end, and then pushed them across the finish line." "These tax credits are essential to the continued growth of wind energy, to the economic and energy security of the United States, and to a successful beginning in the fight against global warming," said Wetstone, as reported by the Environment News Service on October 3.

I also spoke with a representative from Solarponics who felt this was definitely a cause for celebration. The tax incentives for the consumer will boost the ability of the middle class American to invest in renewable energy technologies. I was told it would increase what had been a maximum of $2000 tax credit to approximately $9000. This is a sizeable chunk of the low estimated cost for a 3 bedroom residence at $25,000.

Al Gore has lain a bold challenge before us in his speech, Repowering America, A Generational Challenge. Our elected officials are slowly and surely moving toward making it possible. We can all do our part to answer this challenge with a strong, loud - YES, WE CAN!

What can YOU do? Send us YOUR story. What choice did you make today to live a more sustainable life? Send your first name, last initial, general locale, and what the greentech was. You will educate and inspire others to make the changes they can and more that they may have thought they couldn't.

Always remember: doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Greendimes.com

2008-10-04T08:40:00.000-07:00

An easy, free way to reduce your consumption that's sure to feel good is to take your name off of mailing lists you don't want to be on.

Don't use the grocery store circulars because they don't feature organic and non-toxic products?
Catalogs you instantly recycle?

Go to Greendimes.com and you can remove your name and mailing address from each specific type of junkmail provider.

The results take awhile, about 90 days, and Greendimes says to check weekly to confirm the removals. There are trees that will be planted in addition to the trees you'll preserve by not letting unwanted junkmail to come to your mail box.

Another free and fun way to plant trees - go to JogoGreen.com. The crew at Jogogreen have created a fun way for anyone to help them in their mission to plant trees. Answer 10 environmental questions and a tree is planted. You can also contribute questions. Watching the tree icons grow at the bottom is rewarding and motivating. Have fun!

The History of Hemp

2008-10-02T17:50:00.000-07:00

Okay, not to belabor the point, but here is a brief history of hemp in the US. This crop has the power to help our country make the transformation to sustainable energy with the 10 years set out by scientists and called for by Al Gore in his speech, Repowering America.

Hemp, hemp, hemp - Nature's miracle

2008-10-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting video that gives insight into the benefits of hemp - economically and nutritionally. Why hemp in an environmental sustainability blog?
Besides offering a complete, healthy alternative to animal products, legal hemp farming and processing in the US would create thousands, possibly more, green jobs. Hemp is also a fantastic source for plastic and materials used in the construction of automobiles. It is non-toxic and biodegradable (not while you're driving around, mind you).

A Sustainable Diet

2008-09-27T13:14:00.000-07:00

At first blush this title sounds like it might be the holy grail of dieting - you know, sustaining that diet that made you drop 30 pounds in 2 months.

It also sounds like the latest nutritional best seller - The Sustainable Diet. I checked Amazon, nothing yet. Maybe I can write it.

Although I'm not a nutritionist, dietician, chef or even a 'foodie', I've had an awareness of my diet since childhood. My mom was the only one I knew who gave her kids Royal Bee Gelly and Ginseng Tea (no sweeteners!). We were the only ones without white bread and Hostess was completely absent from our home. We still had occasional treats like cheesecake, but candy bars and nutritionally empty snack foods laden with preservatives were never available. Sodas and junky breakfast cereals? No way!

I don't think my mom thought of herself as progressive, but lucky for me, she had the right instincts about nutrition. It gave me the ability to think outside the mainstream when it came to food.

Earlier I talked about the amount of oil used in the production of beef. Letting go of eating beef seemed very doable for me, and all the findings suggest that it's actually more healthy. Will I ever eat beef? Sure, if my host or Hostess has graciously prepared it, or if the restaurant I'm patronizing has free range, organic, psychologically happy, humanely slaughtered beef.

But what about all the other animal food products? The hardest core environmentalists (in my opinion) assert that to be a true one you must be vegetarian, vegan, even. This is such an extreme concept to most people and even with my awareness about it, to me, that at first I rejected it utterly.

Deep breath.

Didn't I just read that Hemp Seeds provide all the proteins necessary for human nutritional needs? Yup, but how can a bunch of little seeds possibly be as satisfying as chicken? I decided to give them a try and have been pleasantly surprised. They taste good and I actually feel satisfied after eating them on my salad or yogurt. I've also experimented with the Organic Hemp Milk, how crazy does that sound?

So, that takes care of the poultry, now what about those morning eggs I had grown to love and count on. I've always believed eggs were a terrific food, even when everyone wanted me to give up the yolk. However, in my experiment with a sustainable diet I had to try a vegetarian alternative. I chose OPTIMUM POWER BREAKFAST cereal. The box is impressive and empowers me just by looking at it. It also does a fantastic job of keeping my energy level up until lunchtime.

I encourage each of you to try to substitute one thing this week - be bold, you never know what you might like. Just like Mikey.

Kermit The Frog Isn't The Only Green Celebrity

2008-09-26T20:17:00.000-07:00

Installing a home solar system is pretty pricey. The estimates for an average 2,500 square foot home which probably requires a 3 to 4 kW system are $25,000 to $36,000. It isn't something many average home owners can upgrade to. Industry wisdom says it's always better to include it in the original design. That's if you can invest in designing and building your own home.

What about someone living in low-income housing? There is a fantastic partnership between the Enterprise Foundation, BP Solar Neighbors and the Environmental Media Association that is worth checking out. It's the brainchild of actor, Edward Norton who, when installing his own system proposed an idea to BP Solar. For every celebrity who joins the BP Solar Neighbors program and purchases a system (every 6kW qualifies) a matching system is donated to a low-income family. The Environmental Media Association's purpose is to link "the power of celebrity to environmental awareness, EMA believes that through television, film and music, the entertainment community can affect change in a positive way. EMA’s work is widespread, from subtle messaging on the screen to promoting sustainable lifestyle choices and educating influential people on the power of “green,” our goal is inspiring the path to a healthier planet."

Here's an excerpt from an interview with Slate.

"Edward Norton: I can't give you a total number of panels. We're getting close to having donated over 100 kW worth of free systems to low-income families. About 50 families have received systems and we've done two large systems on affordable housing rental buildings or homeless SRO projects. This doesn't count the celebrity participation which is probably another 100-200 kW worth."

This is an example any community or any high profile group of people can follow - it isn't just actors and musicians who can create this kind of positive change. What if each community negotiated with a local or national solar company to work out some form of donated system to benefit everyone? What if government buildings, schools, or large chain retailers invested in solar with the promise that their purchase would ensure the installation for a low-income family?

Things to think about.

In the meantime, send us your story. Include your first name, last initial, general locale and what YOUR sustainable choice was today. Make your voice heard; educate and inspire. The effects of your choice will be magnified and made more powerful when you share it with us.

The Future of Greentech

2008-09-25T19:15:00.000-07:00

Now, greening our world is about more than, well, being green. It's about a thriving economy; it's about 2 or more million new jobs in greentech. There are challenges, to be sure. Those who lose jobs in obsolete fields won't necessarily be the ones getting the new jobs. The new greentech jobs may not all be the highest quality. Fortunately, these aren't issues that need to stand in the way of this multibillion-dollar growth industry. These are concerns to be monitored and addressed with foresight and forward thinking.

There are serious issues at stake and as ILO Director-General Juan Somavia says, "As the report makes clear, building a low-carbon economy is not only about technology or finances, it's about peoples and societies. It's about a cultural change to a greater environmental consciousness and opportunities for decent work." Read more at Environment News Service's website.

Even more exciting is a recently released report discussed at the Center for American Progress. The findings give one a great deal of hope, and, motivation to be involved in whatever way one can to bring about this greentech revolution.

Here is an excerpt:
The $100 billion fiscal expansion that we examined in this study provides the infrastructure to jumpstart a comprehensive clean energy transformation for our nation, such as the strategy described in CAP’s 2007 report, “Capturing the Energy Opportunity: Creating a Low-Carbon Economy.” This paper shows the impact of a swift initial investment in climate solutions that would direct funding toward six energy efficiency and renewable energy strategies:

* Retrofitting buildings to increase energy efficiency
* Expanding mass transit and freight rail
* Constructing “smart” electrical grid transmission systems
* Wind power
* Solar power
* Advanced biofuels

This green recovery and infrastructure investment program would:

* Create 2 million new jobs nationwide over two years
* Create nearly four times more jobs than spending the same amount of money within the oil industry and 300,000 more jobs than a similar amount of spending directed toward household consumption.
* Create roughly triple the number of good jobs—paying at least $16 dollars an hour—as spending the same amount of money within the oil industry.
* Reduce the unemployment rate to 4.4 percent from 5.7 percent (calculated within the framework of U.S. labor market conditions in July 2008).
* Bolster employment especially in construction and manufacturing. Construction employment has fallen from 8 million to 7.2 million over the past two years due to the housing bubble collapse. The Green Recovery program can, at the least, bring back these lost 800,000 construction jobs.
* Provide opportunities to rebuild career ladders through training and workforce development that if properly implemented can provide pathways out of poverty to those who need jobs most. (Because green investment not only creates more good jobs with higher wages, but more jobs overall, distributed broadly across the economy, this program can bring more people into good jobs over time.)
* Help lower oil prices. Moderating domestic energy demand will have greater price effects than modest new domestic supply increases.
* Begin the reconstruction of local communities and public infrastructure all across America, setting us on a course for a long-term transition to a low-carbon economy that increases our energy independence and helps fight global warming. Currently, about 22 percent of total household expenditures go to imports. With a green infrastructure investment program, only about 9 percent of purchases flow to imports since so much of the investment is rooted in communities and the built environment, keeping more of the resources within the domestic economy.

For the full article visit the Center for American Progress's website.

What can YOU do? Send us YOUR story. What choice did you make today to live a more sustainable life? Send your first name, last initial, general locale, and what the greentech was.

Always remember: doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Power To and From the People

2008-09-23T12:47:00.000-07:00

I hear far too many people argue that solar power is too expensive, impossible to store for any length of time without toxic batteries and unreliable. I really want someone to tell me HOW it can be done, not argue for our current situation's limitations.

This is why I was so grateful to read an article in the most recent issue of Ode Magazine, entitled, 'Talkin' 'Bout My Generation". The lights have come on! This isn't your grandpa's centralized power system - it's a power grid remade in the image of the internet.

"Can you imagine the generation that grew up on file-sharing, Wikipedia and MySpace surrounded by coal-fired or nuclear power plants?" asks Jeremy Rifkin, alternative energy activist and advisor to the EU and many European governments, in this article.

This future includes what are known as energy positive buildings - good guess - it means that these buildings make enough power to cover their own needs plus give back energy to the system. These building are being constructed now!

This future also includes energy distribution that mimics the internet - a smart grid that senses where the energy is needed or not needed, where it is in surplus at any given time and how to shift it to places with a deficit. Rifkin notes, "We can take IT to the power grid, too, and it will exceed anything you could produce with centralized coal-fired or nuclear power plants."

There's alot more good stuff in this article, more than I can quote here, so I recommend you visit the Ode Magazine page and read the entire thing. Then I highly recommend subscribing - the magazine's tagline is 'for intelligent optimists'. Wouldn't you like to be one of those?

Then, send us YOUR story about your sustainable choice today! Include your first name, last initial, general locale and what your choice was. We list you among our Friends For A Green World and believe that by joining together we can educate, model and inspire others to join us in Repowering America.

Join us.

Recycling Does Make A Difference

2008-09-22T09:38:00.000-07:00

In my search for information about recycled paper products I came across a great website. This group has terrific products and the prices are excellent. I will be recommending this co-op to my school, local government offices, local non-profits and others. I encourage you to check them out, too. In just a few months they have made a tremendous difference - join them.

Recycled Products Cooperative

As of 6/30/08, RPC members have purchased over 415,068 cases of 30% and 100% post-consumer recycled paper, saving:
* 91,655 trees
* 26,754,371 gallons of water
* 15,661,122 kilowatt hours of electricity
* And preventing 228,546 pounds of air pollution!

copied from the Recycled Products Cooperative homepage

Additionally, the NRDC has a useful, easy to read and take shopping list. It gives brand names, recycled content info and bleaching info. Recycled paper products are equal in quality to those created with virgin materials.....wait.......I'm wrong......they are superior due to the low environmental costs associated with their production. You can find them at most mainstream stores now and if you're into online ordering you can buy any quantity you need at places like Recylcled Products Cooperative.

If you have a site that you currently use for this type of product - send us the address. We'd love to highlight them, too.

Remember, doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't matter.

Send your first name, last initial, general locale and what YOUR sustainable choice was today!

Join us.

The GREEEEENNEST Oil Source Around

2008-09-17T15:17:00.000-07:00

http://www.5min.com/Video/ALGAE--THE-HOLY-GRAIL-OF-BIOFUEL-9736

ALGAE â€“ THE HOLY GRAIL OF BIOFUEL?

Beef -It's What's Using Oil

2008-09-14T11:24:00.000-07:00

In learning about sustainability and ways to achieve the energy independence described by Al Gore, I've come to understand that my food cannot be left out of the equation. I've been reading Michael Pollan's, The Ominvore's Dilemma and have learned some very interesting facts. A young steer who follows the conventional range to feedlot life path will, upon reaching a weight of 1200 pounds, have consumed in its lifetime the equivalent of 35 gallons of oil - a barrel of oil holds 42 gallons.

This page, http://www.gravmag.com/oil3.html, has an interesting graph 3/4's of the way down, called, What's In a Barrel of Oil, that shows where each part of the barrel goes.

I already had made a decision to leave beef and pork out of my diet (unless I was at a social gathering and it was the only choice available). Then I read the latest issue of E, The Environmental Magazine. I also visited farmsanctuary.org, whose ads are in this issue and the latest issue of OnEarth, the NRDC publication.

Needless to say, my decision just became more weighty and difficult. Am I really ready to convert my entire eating style to one that matches my sustainability desires? As Pollan writes, "Eating industrial meat takes an almost heroic act of not knowing or, now, forgetting."

Stay tuned.

JogoGreen

2008-09-06T07:53:00.000-07:00

This blog is dedicated to spotlighting the green pioneers who are making a difference - one car, one bag, one water bottle, one solar install at a time - whatever it is YOU do let us know. The choice you make today to create a green world benefits us all - letting people know about it gives us all a chance to be empowered and inspired by your example.

Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little doesn't make a difference.

Here is a fantastic website to help you do a little! You and yours can learn more about sustainability and the environment while raising money for Jogo's tree planting programs. Answer 10 questions correctly and a tree is planted. The growing icons at the bottom are rewarding and inspiring. Children love being part of helping Nature, while having a great time playing a game. We all share in your gift; so let us know how many trees you've helped plant.

Bravo JogoGreen.com!

ps - the story of this organization is inspiring and affirming, too - check it out under "Trees".

What's Good for Coral Reefs is Good for Us

2008-08-30T17:25:00.000-07:00

What do National Geographic, Environmental Working Group and CosmeticsDesign.com have in common?

They all reported on the ill-effects of certain types of suncreen on our coral reefs back in January and February of '08. This is information that we all need and it should be highlighted again.

Live in a sunny part of the world and swim in the waters that support coral reefs? You need to choose a sunscreen that won't poison the coral reefs. Live in a part of the world where a winter vacation to a sunny part of the world is a welcome relief? You need to choose a sunscreen that won't poison the coral reefs.

Oh, do you wear sunscreen, ever? You need to choose a sunscreen that won't poison the coral reefs.......or you.

According to the Nat Geo site:

"..researchers estimate that 4,000 to 6,000 metric tons of sunscreen wash off swimmers annually in oceans worldwide, and that up to 10 percent of coral reefs are threatened by sunscreen-induced bleaching."

Fortunately, EWG reports:

The good news? "We don't need to choose between protecting our skin and protecting coral reefs," says Celia Ferreira, Ph.D., formulator of Caribbean Solutions sunscreen products in Orlando, Fla. "In my experience, sun products without petroleum derivatives actually protect the skin better."

The harmful ingredients to avoid include octinoxate, oxybenzone and 4-methylbenzylidene camphor, and the preservative butylparaben. These also happen to be linked to cancer, allergic reactions, endocrine disruption, neurotoxicity and reproductive harm in humans, according to the EWG.

Once again, what's good for our environment is really most good for ourselves. Preserve and restore the habitat in which we thrive - this is the deepest essence of sustainable choices.

And always remember...... doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking that a little won't make a difference.

Share your story with us..... send your first name, last initial, general locale and what YOUR sustainable choice was today. Your choice will be magnified and made more powerful, you will educate and inspire, and others will join you.

Reusable Bags and more

2008-08-30T09:38:00.001-07:00

Here are two of my favorite websites for learning about and purchasing sustainable household technologies. Even if you can't afford the hybrid or the solar system, you can start with the small things. Doing a little is more fulfilling than thinking a little won't make a difference.

Each time you make a small change, let us know. We want to share in your gift to us all. Your choice will inspire someone else to make a difference.

ReusableBags.com is a fantastic resource for anyone looking for environmentally sustainable water bottles, bags, packs and lots more.

My new favorite is the BioBags - Kitchen Trash Bags! I am so happy that I now have the perfect partner in my waste reduction trio: compost, recycling and biocompostable trash bags. This product meets the ASTM D6400 requirements, which is the gold standard for compostable plastic.

Another great source, with a mission, is WorldCentric.org - I order my bio-compostable plates and cups from them. This is an excellent alternative for school events, birthday parties, trade shows, etc. Last spring at our school's walkathon we set up an educational station for all the waste to educate the parents and children about waste reduction which included these bio-compostables.

WorldCentric is located in Palo Alto, California and is a nonprofit who's mission is to reduce economic injustice and environmental degradation through education, community networks, and sustainable enterprises.

Send information on other sites - we love to learn!

Why Friends For A Green World?

2008-08-27T22:40:00.000-07:00

A short while ago I watched Al Gore's speech - A Generational Challenge to Repower America. It changed me. It moved me to take action - many small actions - to begin to be a part of this transforming of America.

It occurred to me that many people have already taken actions to begin this transformation. We don't hear about them, unless we know them personally, and even among our circles of friends it may not be brought up.

I want to hear about everyone in this country making choices to live a sustainable lifestyle. I want to host this honor roll of courageous pioneers who make these choices, sometimes against economic good sense, but for the good of the whole. I want to laud each and everyone who chooses non-toxic cleaners for their homes, who buys biocompostable trash bags, who gives their child water for school in a reusable bottle, who buys a hybrid, rides a bike to work, installs geothermal or solar.

There are a thousand ways to be a part of this revolution - tell us who you are and what your choice was today. Send an email, send a pic or a link to your video about how you are part of the change we all wish to see.

When others see your example, they, too, will be changed - it is a seed that may bear fruit tomorrow or next year, but they will be changed.

Wayne Dyer talks about a study in which the serotonin levels and immune function were monitored in subjects performing acts of kindness. When that person performed the act of kindness his/her levels went up - giving them greater health and wellbeing. Then it was observed that the recipient experienced an increase in both as well. The best part for me was that the study revealed that those who simply observed the acts of kindness received the same benefits to immune function and serotonin levels as the two people directly involved.

Choosing environmentally sustainable technologies is a communal act of kindness - please share it with all of us - your gift will be magnified and your choice made even more powerful.

Join us.