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Green Your Shopping Trip

A simple way to green your life is by choosing eco-friendly products. When walking down the grocery isle at your local market so many products are labeled “eco-friendly”, “recycled”, and “organic” just to name a few. With so many “green” and eco-friendly products on the market, how do you know which is the real deal? These tips will give you the knowledge on how to choose which eco-friendly products are right for you and your family.

Look for certification.  There are a handful of reliable and trust worthy certifications you can reference. Use these as your guide to choose the best eco-friendly products. These are the seals you are going to want to keep an eye out for “federal government’s Energy Star designation on appliances and electronics; the USDA organic seal on food and cosmetics; Green Seal (and, in Canada, EcoLogo) on household cleaning products; and the Forest Stewardship Council logo on wood and paper products.”

Be Aware. With the current trend of “going green” companies are changing the product packaging to remain part of the trend, when they really aren’t going green! Look for specific words such as “natural,” “green,” “eco,” “nontoxic” and even “biodegradable”. These words make a product look eco-friendly however they aren’t currently regulated however “organic” and “recycled” are!

Buy Local. One of the best ways to be certain your fruits and veggies are fresh and organic is simply purchasing from your local farmers. Produce bought from your local growers do not have to be sprayed with pesticides and other chemicals.  You are also supporting your local economy and local produce tends to be a little bit cheaper than produce from the grocery store.

Trust Your Gut. If it sounds too good to be true, unfortunately most times it is. Make sure to do your research before making any major purchases and check out consumer reports as well as GoodGuide.com. Good Guide rates products from 1-10 on their eco-friendliness. Just because a company is saying they are “green” does not mean that they are.

Sources: NBCNews.com

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Articles Gadgets & Gear Green Building Home Design Home Improvement

Energy Saving Appliances

It seems that every company on the market claims to have energy efficient products that can lower your bills. How many times have you been walking through the store and you see the claims of “lowering your heating bill” or “eco-friendly dishwasher”? Just because an appliance company might claim to be “energy efficient” that does not mean it is necessarily true.

Every appliance is different and every appliance has a different rating scale. The good news is that the United States Department of Energy and the United States Environmental Protection agency have started working with Energy Star to label products when they are energy efficient thus protecting you from .

The Energy Star label states that the products either exceed federal energy consumption standards (normally by at least 15 percent or more) or they have energy saving features built into them. All products that have the Energy Star label are energy efficient products made to save you money and save the environment.

All products have different types of ratings and rates. When shopping for a new energy efficient product make sure you check the labels for the corresponding rating.

Central Air Conditioner:  SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating) is the measure that is used to rate efficiency. The higher the number the more energy efficient the unit is try and look for a unit with a SEER of 12 or more.

Washing Machine:  EF (Energy Factor) indicates the number of complete cycles a washer will operate while using one kilowatt-hour of electricity. The current federal standard for energy efficient washers is an EF of 1.18, while Energy Star washers require an EF of 2.5.

Dishwashers:  EF (Energy Factor) indicates the number of complete cycles a dishwasher will complete while using one-kilowatt hour of electricity. Dishwashers that qualify for the Energy Star label have an EF of 0.52 or greater.

Refrigerators and Freezers:  The labels indicate the number of kilowatt-hours of electricity the appliance will use in one year of operation. The smaller the number, the more efficient the appliance and lower your bills.

In addition to saving you money every month, buying certified Energy Star appliances can also give you a tax credit at the end of the year. To find out if your new appliances make the cut check out Energystar.gov here for a complete list and details and to see if you qualify. Buying energy efficient appliances will help reduce your carbon footprint and will also lower your water bill and electric bill.

Source: housewares.about.com

 

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Articles Eco Eats

Have a Green Thanksgiving

 

iStock_000010991193SmallLooking to make your Thanksgiving more eco-friendly this year? It’s a lot easier than you might think. Every year Americans waste on average 200 millions pounds of turkey this year (Latimes.com). Don’t be apart of that staggering and frightening statistic. Do your part and go green this Thanksgiving.

Use real plates. Although buying paper plates, napkins, and cups might seem easier, it’s actually worse for the environment. It’s far better for the environment if you were to just wash your dishes. Feel free to use the dishwasher! Just make sure to not choose the “high heat” setting because it uses a lot of extra energy.

Use to-go containers. Use reusable to-go containers instead of plastic wrap. According to life.gaiam.com Americans use enough plastic wrap to cover the entire state of Texas. This year do your part and boycott the plastic wrap.

Actually eat your leftovers. I’m not a huge fan of leftovers and I know that I’m just as guilty as the next person for contributing to the 200 million wasted pounds of fowl. Make delicious left over turkey sandwiches or hot turkey gravy sandwiches. After you have finished all the meat, use the carcass and make a turkey stock. You can use the stock later this winter for hearty winter soup.

Buy organic. This year try to buy organic. All the same items you use year after year have an organic alternative. Organic food is free of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers and is not only better for the Earth but better for your body.

Do you have any tips for an eco-friendly Thanksgiving?

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Articles Home Improvement

Give the Gift of Green

Everyone probably has a little box of tools in their garage meant for screwdrivers, hammers, measuring tapes, and other random but helpful items. But did you know you could have “green” tools instead of regular tools? The green tools not only cost about the same as regular tools and power tools but they are also a lot better for our earth and are completely sustainable. A lot of the green tools are made from recyclable materials which helps reduce the amount of  The green tool box is not only a good idea for yourself but makes it the perfect present. Give the green tool box to your favorite handy-man and include a how-to book for ideas and you can pick it up from your local thrift store.

Battery-operated Drill

This one might seem like a no-brainer but you would be surprised by the amount of people that are still using electric drills. Not only is the cord annoying and gets in the way but they use a lot of energy. A rechargeable drill packs a lot of power while using far less energy.

Measuring Tape

An important and basic tool that everyone needs in their toolbox is a measuring tape. Manufacturers offer a greener option when compared to traditional measuring tapes. Green measuring tapes are made from recycled materials and have many features traditional measuring tapes have such as your desired length, a cam-activated lock, etc.)

Screwdriver

Another really important “must-have” tool is a screwdriver. However you don’t have to have your traditional basic screwdriver, they offer rechargeable battery-operated screwdrivers. They also have screwdrivers that are made from corn and other recyclable materials.

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Articles Eco Tips Featured

4 Green Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

With Mother’s Day right around the corner (Sunday, May 12, 2013 — for those of you who might not have remembered), have you been searching for the perfect gift for your environmentally conscious mother? Before going out and spending a lot of money, make sure to know what your mother expects on Mother’s Day. Some moms are just going to want to have breakfast in bed and peace and quiet in the house, while others might prefer a family outing. Nonetheless, we are always looking for new ways to show our mothers just how grateful we are for all that they for us. With more and more mothers becoming environmentally conscious, why not give the mom(s) in your life an eco-friendly gift that also respects Mother Earth.

A Day of Pampering

Moms deserve a nice day of pampering. Give mom a basket with organic bath, hair, or skin care products. Avalon Organics carries a nice line of reasonably priced personal care products packaged in 100 percent recycled materials and made with 100 percent vegetarian ingredients – no parabens, synthetic colors, fragrance, or preservatives. Check out their website www.avalonorganics.com to locate a store near you that carries their line of products.

Tom’s Shoes

Almost everyone has heard about Tom’s Shoes. For every pair of shoes that is purchased, Tom’s donates a pair of shoes to a child in need. They call it their “One for One” campaign. Their shoes are super cute, comfortable and come in various styles and colors. Mom is sure to be pleased with a pair of Tom’s.

Rickshaw Bagworks City Bag

If you do opt for a traditional “gift,” make it a thoughtful sustainable gift. It can still match her personality, like this versatile Rickshaw Bagworks City Bag, made with eco-friendly fibers in the USA. Rickshaw Bagworks offers different colors and styles, so there is bound to be one that Mom will like. Check out their website for more information at rickshawbags.com.

Soy Candles

Give mom an eco-friendly candle. There is a variety of different scents available as well as different size candles. Soy candles are the best alternative to traditional candles because they burn clean and are also toxin-free. Most of the soy candles also feature cotton wicks. Check out Soy Terrific, they have a great variety of candles!

 

 

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Articles Eco Eats Featured

Veggie Pizza for Meatless Monday

Looking for that perfect veggie pizza recipe? Look no further! Here is the perfect veggie pizza!

Ingredients:

2 tbsp. olive oil, plus more for brushing
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ tsp. red pepper flakes
1 ball pizza dough
½ zucchini, thinly sliced*
½ yellow squash, thinly sliced*
1 tsp. kosher salt
6 oz. mozzarella cheese, shredded
1 cup grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced
½ red onion, chopped
2-3 oz. soft garlic herb cheese, such as Boursin
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

Directions:

Heat the oil in a small skillet over medium-low heat.  Stir in the garlic and red pepper flakes.  Let the oil infuse about 5-10 minutes.  Remove from the heat.

Meanwhile, place the zucchini and squash slices in a colander and toss with the salt.  Let stand 15-20 minutes to allow excess water to drain from the vegetables.  Lay the slices out on a clean kitchen towel and blot the surface to remove additional water and the salt.

To make the pizza, heat the oven to 500˚ F and preheat a pizza stone for at least 30 minutes.  Roll out the pizza dough into a 12-14 inch round.  Lightly brush the perimeter of the dough with olive oil.  Brush the center of the dough with the garlic infused oil.  Sprinkle the mozzarella in an even layer over the dough.  Layer the zucchini and squash slices in concentric circles over the cheese covering the pizza.  Top with the tomatoes, red onion, Boursin and basil.  Bake 10-12 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the crust is lightly browned, about 11-12 minutes.  Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing and serving.

Additional Notes:

Instead of using squash and zucchini you can use whatever spring/summer vegetables you like. Try using broccoli, peppers, olives, corn or even mushrooms!

 

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Articles Featured Furnishings

What You Should Know About Green Carpeting

At first glance, eco-friendly carpet may seem too good to be true, saving the Earth and having an eco-friendly home, but it isn’t! Eco-friendly carpeting is a great way to help green your home.

Firstly it is very important to understand the differences between green carpets that are currently on the market. Some carpets are made from post-consumer recycled materials, such as plastic water bottles and soda bottles. This is a good choice because it helps keep those materials out of landfills and it allows the carpeting to be recycled at a much later date. It uses less Volatile Organic Compounds or VOCs, leading to a healthier, happier home.

Another option is natural carpets that are made from natural materials. These materials range from wool, seagrass or bamboo. These materials come from resources around the world. On average they have less toxins, are durable, however their prices can be high.

The Pros of Green Carpeting

  • Recycled carpeting helps the environment by keeping waste out of landfills
  • Later on if you choose to replace your recycled carpeting, it can be further recycled unlike traditional carpeting
  • There are fewer VOCs with recycled carpeting, leading to improved air quality in your home and less risk for respiratory problems
  • Natural carpets have lowered in price and due to popularity there are more options to work with
  • Natural carpets are durable and highly stain resistant

The Cons of Green Carpeting

  • Not all recycled carpeting is made with 100% recyclable materials
  • Depending on your location it may be harder to find recyclable carpeting
  • On average natural and recycled carpeting costs more than traditional carpeting since natural carpeting is dependent on its sources and recycled carpeting is a little harder to produce

There are many pros and cons to choosing green carpeting, although most people agree that eco-friendly carpet for the home is the better choice. You will still have to consider your budget and personal preferences when deciding.

Sources: Greenfloors.com (http://www.greenfloors.com/), hgtvremodels.com, (http://www.hgtvremodels.com/interiors/the-benefits-of-recycled-carpet-tiles/index.html)

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Articles Eco Tips

4 Tell-tale Signs of Greenwashing

You may have heard the term, but wondered how exactly greenwashing is defined. Greenwashing occurs when more time and financial resources are spent on advertising, labeling and marketing green products than is spent actually implementing environmentally sound practices. Unfortunately, the terms “natural”, “non-toxic,” and “eco-friendly” are often misused. Here are four tell-tale signs of product greenwashing to be aware of:

  • Fluffy or Vague Language. Terms like “all natural” or “free of (insert toxic chemical name)” are not regulated by the government and are unverified.
  • Partial or Absent List of Ingredients. All ingredients should be listed to provide 100% transparency.
  • Unverified Health Claims. Sad, but true, many companies do fabricate claims or data. Request to see supporting scientific studies.
  • Questionable Parent Company. If a product is marketed by a company that is known for toxic outputs, the chances are good that the product’s formula has not undergone the proper level of greening.
Source:  These tips were in part provided by actor, author and pioneering environmental activist Ed Begley, Jr. who is a prominent figure in the green movement. Begley’s Earth Responsible Products are plant-based, sustainable, and made from rapidly biodegradable ingredients.
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Articles Eco Tips Featured

6 Ways to Green Your Bath & Body

Bathrooms tend to be one of most wasteful places in our homes. Water runs longer than necessary in the shower or in sinks, paper products are over-used, and many dollars are spent on high-end spa or beauty products that usually aren’t very healthy for our homes or bodies. Get greener in the bathroom and make a few of these easy modifications using eco-friendly products.

Create a Home Spa. Use natural ingredients you already have at home to create your own body scrubs such as sugar and sea salt. Blend with herbs and essential oils.

Watch the Water. Turn off the faucet while you brush your teeth, shave, or lather up your hair.

Go Low Flow. Invest in a low flow shower head and toilet to conserve water.

Use Multi-Purpose Castile Soap. Organic castile soap has many uses. Use it to clean kids, adults, pets and even as a cleaner for the bathroom.

Buy Recycled Toilet Tissue. 100% post-consumer content tissue cuts back on over consumption of trees, water, and energy resources.

Recycle Empty Glass Jars. Reuse empty glass jars to store cotton swabs, toothbrushes or cotton balls instead of spending the money on special containers.

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Articles Featured Furnishings Home Design

Ways to Get Green When Refurnishing

As our world continues to become more heavily populated, we need to be concerned with the amount of resources that are being consumed and wasted. Homeowners who remodel or refurnish frequently tend to add to the problem; however, the good news is that many are now seeking out environmentally conscious refurnishing and remodeling methods. We found five in particular that are easy to implement.

CFL Light Bulbs. Use lighting that requires the least amount of energy. Incandescent light bulbs have set the standard for household lighting. However, these bulbs pollute the earth and give off excess heat. A much more efficient alternative is the use of compact fluorescent light bulbs, or CFLs, in combination with natural light. These newer bulbs use less energy and last up to ten times longer that incandescent light bulbs. And by using natural light during the day you will use even less energy.

Furniture Made From Recycled Materials. Purchase furniture that’s been made of recycled and environmentally friendly materials. Recycled materials have many uses in the home, so it’s really no surprise that furniture manufacturers are now recycling used materials. When furnishing your home, search for furniture made from recycled woods, cork, or bamboo. These materials are readily available and can easily withstand everyday wear and tear. They are also available in neutral colors that will match any home decor.

Earthy Wall Decor. Plain white walls can definitely bring down the energy in a room. Fortunately, there are options available to liven up those walls without hurting the environment. Wall accents made from glass, paper, shells, and even bamboo will add a sense of quirkiness to any room. Not only are these materials fairly easy to get your hands on, they are also able to be used for multiple purposes when you want to change the decor in the home afterwards.

Live Plants. Plants are a good way to accentuate tables and counter spaces. They add a splash of color to your home environment while also cleaning the air. Another way to add a bright splash of color to your home is by purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables to use as a centerpiece on a table.

Reuse Household Items. Many people throw out candles and other items once they are no longer usable. Instead of being wasteful, recycle the candles by melting down the leftover wax into an empty container.