This page offers you monthly tips on how to change your lifestyle to one that protects our planet through Green Living and introduces you to companies who cater to Green Living.

(MS) — The desire to protect the environment has penetrated just about every industry. It makes sense that eventually “going green” would find its way into the fashion and clothing industry. While materials like bamboo and hemp definitely make up a large part of the market, organic cotton is actually the premier choice when it comes to fostering green ideals.

Statistics indicate that the use of organic cotton has grown exponentially. Sales of products containing the material have doubled during the period of 2001 to 2005.

What’s So Great About Organic Cotton?

Cotton — the regular kind — is one of the most widely used fabrics around the world. The trouble with traditional production methods is that they are far from environmentally friendly. Cotton producers frequently rely on synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, and insecticides to ensure the health of the cotton crop. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, seven of the top 15 pesticides used on U.S. cotton crops are potential or known human carcinogens.

Organic cotton is much different. According to the Organic Trade Association (OTA), organic cotton is grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers, and build biologically diverse agriculture. Third-party certification organizations verify that organic producers use only methods and materials allowed in organic production.

Turkey and the United States are the leading producers of organic cotton, followed by India, Peru, Uganda, Tanzania, Egypt, Senegal, Israel, Greece, Benin and Brazil. In the U.S., Texas produces the most organic cotton.

Green Design Overhaul

As the appeal of organic cotton continues to grow, clothing designers have realized the benefit of including the fabric in their designs. Organic cotton has helped to create an offshoot of the fashion industry called “Eco-Fashion.” In fact, in March of this year, members of the eco-fashion community gathered during Portland Fashion Week to discuss environmentally responsible design and manufacturing processes.

Many designers incorporate organic cotton as part of their product line, while others design entirely around organic cotton. Some designers include Stewart+Brown, Armour Sans, Gypsy Rose, and Maggie’s Organic. The singer Bono and his wife Ali Hewson have collaborated on designs using organic cotton and helped start Edun, a socially conscious brand with designer Rogan Gregory.

Aristocrat Denim is a new denim line that uses 100% green cotton denim. The fabrication, dye and dye processes are all carried out via eco-friendly methods, producing completely chemical-free denim that’s as good for the environment as it looks on you. The green wash treatment involves the use of purified water and dry procceses that ensure that all Aristocrat denim is free of harmful ingredients and provides the denim with an unrivaled, cashmere-soft feel. On the heels of a very successful 2007, Owner/Designer Bob Bak has expanded the line to include dresses, shirts and shorts for Spring/Summer 2008. The buzz is building fast — celebrities like Scarlett Johanssen and Kate Hudson are already fans.

While Aristocrat offers an unparalleled variety of options for style and cut, a clean, classic look is constant across the line. Bak’s industry experience has made him particularly sensitive to the complexities of fit—he employs a number of subtle slimming techniques to lengthen and slim the leg while creating clean lines. He also pays extra attention to the front, creating a flat panel and avoiding the bulges most jeans exhibit. Learn more at www.aristocratdenim.com. TF085794

(MS) — Biological control, or the use of beneficial bugs to eat other bugs that typically damage crops is an area of study that continues to grow. The science is not new. Ancient Chinese records describe the construction of bamboo runways to help predatory ants move through citrus groves. Today there are hundreds of mail-order companies that sell predator or parasitic beneficial insects. And researchers all across the country are investigating how some rarely studied predator bugs react with common pests and the eggs they lay.

For example, the Uinversity of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences experiments with tiger beetles showed that the beetle was a voracious eater when it came to devouring worms and grubs that feed on Georgia turfgrass and ornamental plants.

In Southern Texas, farmers are finding out that the cockroach, often considered the bane of society, feasts on insects harmful to crops. The Asian cockroach, a flying variety, which looks almost identical to it’s German cockroach cousin (the cockroach most commonly found scavenging in homes) feeds on bollworm eggs that threaten cotton, soybean, corn, and tomato crops. These Asian cockroaches also dine on other insects that damage crops.

Using natural insect predadors to reduce the numbers of pests that destroy crops can be very beneficial in terms of reducing dependancy on chemical pesticides. More research needs to be conducted into the cost-effectiveness of benefical bugs to the agriculture industry. TF085759

(MS) — When it comes to the environment, it’s easy and understandable to get a feeling of helplessness. Issues such as global warming seem so overwhelming it’s hard to imagine an individual having an impact that can lessen the blow of pollution and other damage and directly benefit the environment.

As daunting as some of these issues can seem, there are things individuals can do on a daily basis that, if practiced on a broad scale, can prove very beneficial to the environment and paint a very different picture of the world we’ll leave for our children and our children’s children.

• Recycle. While it seems hard to believe some communities still don’t have a system of recycling in place, it’s true. Paper, plastics, glass, and other waste can be recycled even in communities where no system is in place. If you must, recycle such items on your own and make a monthly trip to a nearby recycling center to drop them off. In the case of some items, such as glass bottles, you might even be financially rewarded for your good deeds. If your community does have a recycling system, make sure you and all members of your household follow its guidelines.

• Unplug appliances. An average household boasts 25 consumer electronics products. That’s a lot of energy being used on a daily basis. What’s more, many of those products are even using energy when they’re supposedly “off.” That’s because the average consumer electronics product has a standby mode, in which the products aren’t in use but also aren’t turned off.

The United States Department of Energy says standby products typically add $28 to the average annual household power bill. While that’s hardly cause for alarm to most families, when considering the millions of households across the country, these numbers add up significantly, with the environment paying the steepest price of all. To combat standby products wasting so much energy, unplug these products when they’re not in use.

• Get creative. When it comes to helping to the environment, there really is no limit to the ways in which an individual can contribute. Nearly everything we do impacts the environment, be it positively or negatively. Something as simple as mailing a greeting card, for example, can negatively impact the environment. While it seems a simple, friendly gesture, a greeting card is made out of paper, as is the envelope used to mail it. There’s no guarantee such items will be recycled, and even if they are, there are other options for those who don’t want to mail a paper card and envelope. Web sites offering free e-greetings exist. If you do choose paper cards, look for ones with recycled paper content. This will help save the environment by using less paper.

Other creative ways to positively impact the environment include collecting rain water to water flowers; using bird feeders to attract birds that will feed on insects and pests, hence lessening the need for pesticides; and using a walter filter on tap water instead of buying bottled water in plastic bottles.

• Bring your own bags to the grocery store. Paper and plastic bags at the grocery store are very wasteful. Many grocery chains now sell reusable cloth bags to carry groceries. Such bags are inexpensive, and simply require you take them along each time you go to the grocery store.

• Don’t use throw-away items. Paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils, and plastic cups might be convenient, but that doesn’t make them beneficial to the environment. Rather than using paper towels in the kitchen, purchase an extra cloth hand towel or two that can be washed and used time and again instead of discarded after one use like a paper towel. In addition, purchase an inexpensive set of reusable utensils for parties or barbecues rather than using plastic knives, forks and spoons that are good for just one use.

• Turn the faucet off. Gallons upon gallons of water are wasted by the average person on any given day. Toilets are used as garbage cans to flush tissues and towels, wasting an average of 6 gallons of water per flush. In addition, most people leave the faucet running while brushing their teeth or shaving. Keep faucets off while brushing your teeth, and when shaving, heat up water and place the hot water in a bowl to use as you shave instead of keeping the faucet running and wasting more water. TF085789

(PR Newswire/MS) — Green has become glamorous. From high fashion, to luxury travel, eco-friendly has become an entire lifestyle, especially among those with the cash to spend.

A recent study by Synovate, a marketing research company, found 73 percent of those surveyed with an income over $75,000 said they care about purchasing environmentally friendly products. Of those, 92.5 percent said they would be more likely to purchase a luxury wine if it used sustainable techniques in growing the grapes and crafting the wine.

One company taking note of that sentiment is Terlato Wine Group, owner of wineries in Napa, Sonoma and Santa Barbara, Calif., including such labels as Chimney Rock, Rutherford Hill and Sanford. From growing the grapes, to crafting the wine, to creating a healthy environment for their workers, to using recycled shipping materials, Terlato believes small steps can add up to make a genuine difference.

In fact, Doug Fletcher, Terlato’s head winemaker, is interested in looking at the whole. “To me, sustainability means we should look at all the things that we do and how those things affect the eco-system.”

Fletcher warns against assuming organic or biodynamic mean more eco-friendly. He says many vineyards spray grapes with sulfur to protect against mildew because sulfur is naturally occurring and thus adheres to organic guidelines.

However, Fletcher says that when sprayed, sulfur can kill all kinds of beneficial insects. Terlato does not spray with sulfur, but instead uses a targeted compound that works on mildew alone and doesn’t harm insects. It’s man-made, and two times more expensive than sulfur, but in the end, Fletcher believes it’s better for the environment.

Gourmet food is also going green -- the right way. If we consider the environment when buying organic veggies and antibiotic-free chicken, it only makes sense to consider the environment when purchasing luxury items, like caviar. The Little Pearl, a Massachusetts-based caviar purveyor, developed a technology to farm fish on land in greenhouses.

By doing so, it alleviates the pressure on wild fisheries, reduces the amount of feed necessary to farm caviar, and helps protect endangered sturgeon in other parts of the world. When asked if sustainability means sacrificing quality, The Little Pearl’s founder and CEO, Richard Brauman, says quite the contrary.

“To me, fresh and sustainable caviar is more luxurious than traditional caviar because when a customer indulges in the exquisite experience of eating it on blini with creme fraiche and champagne, they no longer have to worry about health or the environment.”
Like Brauman, Joe Whinney, the CEO/founder of an organic and fair trade-certified gourmet chocolate company called Theo Chocolate, believes social responsibility only enhances his product.

“There’s no luxury in products that harm many and harm the environment in order to satisfy an elite few,” he says. “Some cocoa farmers earn less than a dollar a day. How can you enjoy a three or four dollar bonbon knowing others are being harmed?”

All marketing terminology and scientific jargon aside, going green is really very simple. It’s about the environment. “Sustainable, organic or biodynamic, we all want to head to the same spot,” Fletcher says. “The objective is to leave the environment in which we find ourselves in better condition than we found it.” TF085825

(MS) — Artificial lawns are commonplace on sports fields, golf courses, and in some drought-afflicted areas of the country. But could you get used to seeing them popping up on neighborhood landscapes in your area? This may be the case as artificial lawns continue to grow in popularity.

Today’s time-crunched families are continually finding ways to improve time management and work efficiency, and to make things generally easier so they can spend more quality moments together. Just think of how much time the average person would save if watering, weeding, mowing, edging, and reseeding a lawn were out of the picture? Companies such as AstroLawn® promote that low maintenance fake grass as a way for residents to take back their weekends.

Apart from the maintenance-free aspect (most fake lawns remain in top form for 10 or more years and require little upkeep), there are other advantages to going faux over fresh. There’s no worry about dirt or grass stains when kids play outdoors. Dogs and cats won’t be as likely to dig trenches through your lawn, and insects that typically call grass home will be enticed to move to another yard. Most artificial lawn products are soft and feel just as good on bare feet as real grass.

Artificial lawns also have environmental and financial impacts as well. Fake grass does not need to be watered, which means homeowners can save thousands of gallons of water that would normally be put toward lawn watering. And when a drought hits, they won’t have to worry that the time and money they put into the lawn will be wasted. A fake lawn remains green even during drought season.

Other environmental benefits are that artificial lawns do not have to be fertilized or pesticide treated, reducing the amount of chemical runoff in neighborhood water supplies. Plus, with no mowing, carbon dioxide emissions from lawn mowers and other power equipment is greatly reduced.

FieldTurf by M7 says artificial lawn products are ideal for all your landscaping needs, offering an unmatched combination of beauty, durability, and economy. They’re also suitable for many different soil conditions and provide year-round use. GT084694

(MS) — They say that everything is bigger in Texas. It seems that contributing to climate change is one of those big things, too. According to recent findings published by the Associated Press and Time magazine, Texas is the biggest carbon polluter in the United States. The most recent figures from the U.S. Energy Information Administration say that if Texas were its own country it would rank seventh in the world among the biggest polluters. A large part of carbon pollution comes from Texas being the oil-producing hub of America. Texas also has 19 coal-burning power plants, little to no public transportation availability, and Texans often drive gas-guzzling vehicles. One in four registered vehicles is a pick-up truck. Additionally, Texas GOP leaders have not made the reduction of carbon emissions a priory in the state. TF084639

(MS) — Concrete has become the preferred building material in North America, especially for Canadian homeowners who insist on energy efficiency and limiting the use of natural resources. The latest technology developed by Nudura, for example, is said to provide double the insulation by constructing walls, ceilings and floors with pre-assembled, concrete forms. This innovation (consisting of Lego-like blocks of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of polystyrene) is said to make the building project design-friendly, much faster, with less construction waste, and with none of the toxic emissions associated with new buildings. This building system (nudura.com) is now the base for constructing better homes, schools, hospitals, condominiums, hotels, and offices. Money is saved due to durability and energy efficiency — and the resulting structure is reported to be up to nine times stronger, with far more fire protection, far more sound insulation, and with a potential to reduce energy costs of up to 70 percent. TF084708

(MS) — When compared to water pollution, air pollution tends to take a backseat. While each issue is equally important, it’s easy to forget the prevalence of air pollution. After all, unless you live in a city, the air above your head probably looks as healthy as ever. And one doesn’t go jumping into dirty air the same way you might in a dirty ocean or lake, so the issue of air pollution might not resonate as much.

Unfortunately, air pollution is still a prevalent issue, whether you live in a city with millions of other people or reside on a countryside farm where the nearest neighbor is a mile away. Regardless of where you live, what you do can greatly impact the quality of the air you breathe. Here are a few simple steps that will ensure you’re making a positive impact on the air up there.

• Turn the lights off: Believe it or not, most people leave extra lights on throughout their home. This is both bad for the environment and bad for the utility bill. Turn the lights off in rooms you’re not using, and put a dim light bulb in any exterior lights you keep on overnight.

• Properly dispose of household items: Solvents, pesticides and household paints can damage the air thanks to their chemical composition. Whenever disposing of such products, due so in accordance to all local laws. In addition, when storing these products, make sure they’re properly sealed in airtight containers.

• Call the repair man: Leaky air conditioners and refrigeration systems can send harmful gases into the sky. Have all such appliances examined for leaks once a year, and don’t procrastinate in cases where a call to the repair center is necessary.
You can also learn to do your own “repairs” that will help the environment as well. For example, check filters on all air conditioners around the house. A dirty filter will require the air conditioner to work harder to cool a room, causing you to turn the A/C up and, in so doing, increasing your energy bill. By checking and cleaning the filter, you’ll reduce the emissions your A/C is sending out into the air while also reducing your bill.

• Show some tolerance when it’s hot or cold: Turning on the air conditioner or heater doesn’t improve air quality. Unless the temperature absolutely calls for it, avoid turning on the A/C by opening some windows and keep the heater at a lower temperature while throwing on a sweater.

• Recycle: While it’s hard to believe in the 21st century, many households still don’t recycle. During the production of items such as plastics, glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans, harmful emissions are produced and sent into the air. By recycling, fewer of these items need to be produced, and that will lessen the damage done to the air.

• Carpool to work: With the ever-increasing prices of fuel, carpooling to work has never seemed such an attractive option. Not only will you help the pocketbook by sharing the weekly gas tab with at least one other person, but you’ll substantially decrease the amount of harmful emissions vehicles send into the air each day. If you carpool with three other people who are all used to driving to work in their own cars, you’ve cut the amount of emissions the four of you would normally produce by 75 percent.

• Take care of your car: Several things impact how efficiently a vehicle will burn fuel. Tires that aren’t properly inflated, a dirty air filter and even your own driving habits can have a negative impact on the efficiency of a vehicle. Rapidly accelerating burns more fuel, as does a lot of stop- and-go driving. A dirty air filter makes the car work harder and reduces fuel efficiency, as do poorly inflated tires. Keep up with all manufacturer guidelines.

To learn more about reducing air pollution, visit the Environmental Protection Agency Web site at www.epa.gov. TF084640

(MS) — The use of sustainable materials is now one of the Top 5 priorities voiced by Canadians when building their homes. Safety, beauty, energy efficiency and comfort are also included on that list — and these priorities require sound decisions every step of the way.

“Canadians readily ask about building methods that deliver energy efficiency without impacting the environment,” says Todd Blyth at Nudura Corporation, a leading name in concrete home technology. “To meet, and surpass these expectations, builders are discarding the traditional wood-framing method in favour of concrete.” Here, courtesy of Nudura, are the answers to the most frequently asked questions on this subject:

Q: Why do builders prefer concrete?
A: The newest technology for walls, ceilings and floors consists of stay-in-place concrete forms, which are considered vastly superior to construction with wood. These Lego-like blocks allow more freedom in design. The pre-assembled units cut construction time in half, and they produce far less waste than the traditional wood-framing method. Builders are now opting for these Nudura interlocking units (of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of expanded polystyrene foam insulation) to construct better homes, schools, hospitals, condominiums, hotels, offices, and other public buildings
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Q: What do I get?
A: Your energy bills could be reduced up to 70 percent. With this type of concrete structure, you’ll also get a home that stands to be: 1. Twice as energy efficient, since there are no air spaces or studs — and the technology evens out the effect of external temperature swings. 2. Up to three times more sound resistant due to the double-foam, insulated concrete core. 3. Up to four times more fire resistant, since the walls are built with steel reinforced concrete and foam treated with a non-toxic fire retardant. 4. Up to nine times stronger, a superior feature in high-wind, tornado, or hurricane areas. 5. Far more resistance to thermal bridging, where outside cold travels easily through walls to create uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness.
More information on this building method is available online at nudura.com. TF084709

(MS) — Eye-popping beauty for your home does not have to be sacrificed in honor of the environment.

Take a look at the award winning residence, Eagle Rising, a project on 20 wilderness acres near Fort Collins, Colorado. Project managers report that the key challenges on those windy, mountainous foothills were to limit the use of resources while achieving design grandeur, energy efficiency, sound resistance, and comfort.

“The application of concrete, not wood, is the answer to each one of those structural requests,” says Todd Blyth of Nudura Corporation, “Home builders and commercial builders are on the leading edge of this technology.”

The Nudura form system consists of stay-in-place concrete units, which deliver superior insulation, Blyth explained. “The system is vastly superior to the traditional stick framing method. The interlocking units (of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of expanded polystyrene foam insulation) produce a home that is environmentally-friendly, but also with a foundation that is up to nine times stronger, with far more fire protection, far more sound insulation, and with the potential to reduce energy costs up to 70 percent.”

Take a look at Eagle Rising as an illustration:

Eagle Rising Residence

Winner: Best Custom Home and Best Overall Project in 2006, awarded by ICF Builder Magazine.

Project Description: To build a 4,400 square-foot home with a combination stone stucco finish. The owner wanted an energy efficient house, with high ceilings and curving walls. Sound resistance was also top priority in this very windy location.

Energy Efficiency: Superior insulation and sustainable materials were first priority. Concrete, which fills the core of the interlocking units, is ideal on the exposed site where winds can exceed 161 km/hr (100 mi/hr). The Nudura system provides the ideal combination of R-value, mass, and zero air infiltration to maximize the energy efficiency.

Sound Control: Structurally, the house is far more stable than traditional wood framing methods and the concrete foundation provides an excellent thermal sound barrier.
Beauty: The Eagle Rising architect was able to incorporate a house with high ceilings and many curving walls. Unlike conventional building methods of the past, the Nudura forms offer versatility — and therefore walls and ceilings can be made to curve.

Comfort: The interlocking forms are also resistant to thermal bridging, where outside cold travels easily through walls to create uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness. The form system is also resistant to mold.

A full feature story about Eagle Rising, published in Eco-Structure Magazine, is available online at nudura.com. TF084710

(MS) — There is no better opportunity for a long-term contribution to conservation than building your home with “green” choices. By opting for sustainable materials, you and your family will be helping to protect the environment every day, for years and years to come.

Homeowners report that if Canadians do take the time and initiative to be selective about choices in the building materials, fixtures, and decor, we will live with the knowledge that we did the responsible thing, right from the beginning. As a home building guideline, take a look at these ideas:

The walls: Ask for concrete, not wood. Builders are highly supportive of using the Nudura building system, consisting of stay-in-place, interlocking concrete units. With this Lego-like method (of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of expanded polystyrene foam insulation) the total building envelope stands to be up to nine times stronger, far more fire resistant, and far more sound insulated. Better still, it’s a building method that will deliver energy savings of up to 70 percent. This Nudura innovation (nudura.com) is design-friendly for architects, much faster for builders, creates less construction waste, and provides defence against toxicity and mould that is so often a associated with traditional wood framed walls.

Indoor Water Conservation: Ask about grey water irrigation and rainwater harvesting.
Energy Efficiency: In addition to the concrete walls, some of the more popular choices for conservation include: an ‘earth sheltered’ architectural design; installing efficient ducts, lighting and fans; planning for gas or solar hot water, heating and cooling systems.

Materials: Structural choices range from fume-free paints, finishes and adhesives, to sustainable floor coverings, sidings and trim.

Solid Waste Disposal: Plan ahead and design your home for permanent composting, recycling, and waste control. TF084711

(MS) — Building a dream home produces an endless list of priorities. Features that accentuate beauty, comfort, and practicality are of utmost importance to Canadians—and now, so is conservation, and the use of sustainable materials.

“Energy efficiency with windows, doors, and insulation, is high on the priority list,” says Todd Blyth at Nudura Corporation, a leading name in building systems. “But unlike a decade ago, people are also asking for their custom projects to be achieved with far less impact on the environment. With this demand on the rise, building technology has made rapid advances – and the most important one is the use of concrete, not wood.”

For walls, ceilings, and floors, for example, the Nudura system consists of stay-in-place concrete units, which deliver far superior benefits than traditional foundations with wood. These interlocking blocks of varying sizes, allow more freedom in beauty and design — and it’s a method that cuts construction time in half, while producing far less waste. Builders are now opting for the pre-assembled units (of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of expanded polystyrene foam insulation) to construct better homes, schools, hospitals, condominiums, hotels, offices and other public buildings.

“For people with allergies or respiratory conditions, it’s good to know that the walls of your home are not going to make it worse,” Blyth continued. “Imagine finding out that your breathing problems stem from the wood in your walls.”

According to Blyth, the Lego-like units make building less labour intensive.
“Construction teams far prefer the method, and the benefits are even more significant for the homeowner. Nudura units can be ordered in a variety of sizes and shapes so that your walls and ceilings can be built to any design.”

As importantly, concrete walls provide an excellent sound barrier and are resistant to thermal bridging, where outside cold travels easily through walls to create uncomfortable cold spots, drafts, and mustiness. It is also reported that concrete walls like these are up to nine times stronger, far more fire resistant, sound resistant, and will reduce energy costs up to 70 percent. More information is available online at nudura.com. TF084712

(MS) — Organic gardeners know they get a lot more benefits from their style of gardening than safe, pesticide-free flowers and produce. Organic gardeners also enjoy more green by spending less green out of their pockets.

The secret is in the soil. Organic gardening got its name from the magical benefits that happen when organic matter is added to any soil. Examples of organic matter are compost, Canadian sphagnum peat moss and shredded leaves. Whether your soil is hard-pan clay or quick-draining sand, organic matter is the great equalizer, loosening clay soil and acting like a sponge to hold moisture in sandy soils. Organic matter also encourages the billions of tiny soil critters that break down nutrients for plant life and keep soil well aerated to get busy.

Canadian sphagnum peat moss is a sustainable, ready-to-use form of organic matter that is offered in compressed bales that make it easy to use. Compost is a good organic source but few gardeners ever have enough. Savvy organic gardeners know that mixing Canadian sphagnum peat moss half and half with their compost is one way to multiply their supply of valuable organic matter. And the peat reduces compaction of the soil that is often associated with using compost by itself. For the best results, dig a 2- to 3-inch layer of your organic matter into the top 6 to 8 inches of soil.

The water-holding capacity of Canadian sphagnum peat moss and compost is another reason for gardeners to go organic. Water is a valuable resource now protected and restricted in all parts of the country, not just the dry south. The higher a soil’s organic matter the lower the water bills.

Organic gardening applies to shrubs, flowers and lawns not just fruits and vegetables. Improve the soil around all your plants by adding organic matter and they’ll not only need less fertilizer but with less water stress, plants will be better able to resist insects and disease. Organic gardeners accept some insect damage as a trade off for a pesticide-free garden. Eliminating pesticides from your garden is easy when healthy soil supports healthy plants.

So think the Big O when you garden and go Organic. You won’t have to over-water, over-feed, or over-spend on an outstanding landscape and overly abundant garden.

To order free brochures on “How to … with peat moss” and other gardening tips, send a self-addressed, unstamped, business-sized envelope to: Peat Moss, Box 385102, Minneapolis, MN, 55438; e-mail cspma@peatmoss.com; or visit www.peatmoss.com.
The Canadian peat industry is committed to making peat moss a sustainable resource. Only one acre in every 6,000 is harvested and when harvesting stops, the bogs are restored to functioning peatlands. For more information on peat and the environment, visit the Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association’s Web site at www.peatmoss.com. GT084613

(MS) — Going green has never really been an issue for most gardeners. The love of the environment is one of the things that draws them to gardening. But even the most avid gardener can go a little greener by using materials made from recycled products.

Today’s lawn and garden market is filled with many recycled items to help you create a gorgeous, inviting and eco-friendly lawn.

Did you know that Americans discard almost 300 million tires annually? One Texas company, Easy Gardener Products Inc., has come up with a way to put some of those old tires to use in the yard. They have a new line of products all made from 100 percent recycled rubber. You can find these products at your favorite local lawn and garden center or chain retailer or by calling 1-800-327-9462.

Mulch Mat tree ring forms a weed barrier around trees and helps hold in moisture. The pre-cut mats look just like a circle of hardwood mulch, but last much longer. You can create a weed-free zone around the base of trees, mailboxes and yard posts while at the same time eliminating the need for edging, weeding, raking, and re-mulching. They come in a variety of sizes and colors.

Easy Gardener’s Edge Border can help give your garden a clean, mulched-looked edging. The new product creates a 41⁄2-inch weed barrier around landscape beds and gardens. You can lay the border flat or even use it to create curves. Run your mower tires along the top of the Edge Border and eliminate the need for edging!

The Stepping Stones and Pavers look like concrete, stone and brick but their rubber composition makes them 80 percent lighter and nearly unbreakable. They look great and provide a cushioned step along your garden path.

Gardeners can take the recycled theme all the way by using Easy Gardener’s Rubber Mulch. Say goodbye to weeds and hello to handsome landscaping. The mulch is specifically tailored for landscape and playgrounds and it comes in a variety of colors and sizes. Best of all, tests revealed that rubber mulch provides greater soil and water retention than traditional wood mulches.

These items are all attractive, easy-to-use products that will make you think having “old tires” in your yard isn’t such a bad idea after all. GT084670

(MS) — There are millions of acres of manicured lawns in this country. From golf clubs to parks to homeowners' own front yards. Many people believe a perfect, manicured lawn positively reflects back on the person who toiled for it, and evokes a feeling of importance and pride. However, the steps most people take to achieve that pristine, green lawn are often anything but green in the environmental sense.

Chemical Overload

Millions of pounds of chemical fertilizers and pesticides are applied to lawns, trees and shrubs to keep them looking their best. But those "warning" flags the landscaper erects after the lawn has been doused in a chemical bath should seem insidious to everyone around. That's because the chemicals used are harmful to the environment and the people/animals that come in contact with those chemicals.

Studies of professional lawn care workers have shown they face of increased risk of non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (NHL), currently the sixth most common malignant cancer in the U.S., say reports by The Green Guide. Chemical runoff from pesticides and fertilizers can seep into water supplies and other bodies of water in communities.
Phosphates and nitrates found in chemical products help to rob ponds and lakes of oxygen, essentially suffocating the plant and animal life residing there.

Air Pollution

The gasoline-powered equipment used to cut lawns, edge properties and trim shrubbery contributes to air pollution. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 5 percent of air pollution comes from mowers, trimmers, blowers and chainsaws.

Drain on Water

Keeping lawns looking healthy requires thorough watering. But experts estimate that a good deal of fresh water is squandered away keeping lawns and landscapes up to par.

Putting the "Green" Back into the Landscape

By being environmentally conscious and exploring natural alternatives to lawn care, homeowners can have their cake and eat it, too. Essentially they can have a thriving landscape without the environmental side effects of chemical products and other pollutants. Here are a few ideas:

1. Position large collection basins outdoors under the downspouts on your home. These basins can collect rainwater that can be used to water garden plants during dry spells, alleviating the drain on fresh water supplies.

2. Choose plants, trees and grasses that are indigenous to the area in which you live. Essentially this is working with the environment, instead of trying to maintain a landscape of intolerant species. Plants accustomed to the climate and natural predators may require less water and fewer pesticides.

3. Look for organic fertilizers that will be a benefit for the environment rather than destroy it. A great organic fertilizer that is very inexpensive is compost. Create a compost heap in the yard or in a container to which you add grass clippings, vegetable peels, egg shells, and other organic matter. Use the compost to feed the landscape.

4. Look to alternative pest management instead of pesticides. Let "good" bugs stay in place that will eat or destroy the ones that target the landscape. Invite birds that feed on insects to the yard by creating a welcome atmosphere for them.

5. Create a peaceful (and exhaust-free) mowing experience by using a manual mower instead of a gas-powered one. GT084635

(MS) — Recycling is certainly about those blue and green bins parked at your curb. But it is also about how you can put items you would normally toss in the trash or recycling bin to other uses.

Anyone who has shopped at retail giant Target recently may have noticed that their shopping bags list ways to reuse the bag after it’s served its purpose of toting home your low-priced goods. This may have gotten you thinking about other things that can be reincarnated for multiple purposes.

Every time you use an item for an idea beyond its original manufactured intent, you have increased the validity of that product and, in turn, keep people employed. You also discover ways to reduce waste, and that’s a good thing.

Here are just a few items, with five ways to use them in new ways.

Aluminum Foil

It’s more than just for warming food. Rinse them off and use foil scraps for these reasons.

1. Layer about seven pieces of foil and cut through them with scissors that are dull. The foil will sharpen the scissors again.

2. Use a ball of spare foil to clean baked-on pots and pans. It works just as well as steel wool.

3. Foil makes great gift wrapping in a pinch.

4. Think about how many children’s dress-up costumes can be created with foil. From robots to martians to angels.

5. Use a double-thickness of foil as a piping bag when doing cake decorating.

Paper Bags

Sure, it may seem that paper bags have faced extinction, but as more people realize the benefits of going green, paper bags are making a comeback. They can do a heck of a lot more than just carry groceries.

1. Do we even need to mention that paper bags are the primary material of choice for covering textbooks?

2. Kids can cut bags into placemats to bring along to restaurants or other people’s homes. Just pack along crayons and they can color while waiting for food.

3. Durable paper bags can be used as recycling collectors and easily sort recyclable items.

4. From masks to aprons, paper bag costumes are limited only by the imagination.

5. Crumple bags to form a way to add textured paint applications to walls and furniture.

Baby Food Jars

Moms and dads out there know that a hungry baby goes through dozens of jars of baby food a month. That’s a lot of recycling! There are ways to reuse baby food jars, though.

1. Many baby food jars are just the right size for holding a votive candle.

2. Use these cute jars for storing buttons or other small notions that inevitably get misplaced.

3. Use the jars to hold homemade spice blends. You can also transfer store-bought spices to the baby food jars so all spices are in uniformly sized containers for a more organized pantry.

4. Personalize your paint palette by using jars to mix paints. They can also hold paint for young artists.

5. Hardware storage is easy when you keep small nails, screws, bolts, or whatever in sealed jars.

Socks

If the washer and dryer mysteriously consume a sock and you’re left with a spare, or if your socks are past their prime, you can use them for other things.

1. When dusting or cleaning, simply slip the sock over your hand and use it to wipe down anything in the home.

2. Fill a sock with rice or wheat, heat in the microwave for a few seconds, and use it as a heating pad.

3. You can certainly make a sock puppet, or two, or three …

4. Put a ball inside and tie off the end to make a tug toy for a dog. Or fill with catnip for a kitty.

5. Fill with leftover soap pieces and use in the washing machine for washing delicates. TF083428

(MS) — Nutritionists have long touted the health benefits of green tea. It's power-packed with antioxidants, making it a disease fighter and generally healthy brew to enjoy.

But the benefits of green tea do not need to end at tea time. Green tea leaves can be recycled for many other purposes around the home and garden. The "green" in green tea can take on a new connotation when this environmentally friendly product is used in new ways.

The same antioxidant ingredients in green tea are also known for their odor-absorbing abilities. Tea is loaded with catechins — the antioxidant substances. The catechins have antibacterial properties that make tea leaves great for fighting odor. Usually the tea leaves need to be dried before use as a deodorizer. To do so, simply put the wet tea leaves into a strainer and spread out. Press the leaves to remove as much moisture as possible. Then allow to air dry, turning the leaves over several times in the process.

Pet Beds/Litter Boxes: Sprinkle dried tea leaves onto a pet bed, blanket or pillow. The leaves will help dissipate any foul pet odors. The same technique can be applied with litter boxes. The tea leaves help remove odor and can repel fleas from dogs and cats.
Carpeting: Skip the chemical carpet deodorizer and use dried tea leaves instead. Sprinkle over the carpet, let sit 10 to 15 minutes and then vacuum.

Refrigerator/Kitchen: Put used wet tea leaves or bags in a bowl in the refrigerator to help absorb odors from strong-smelling foods. Wet tea leaves can also be used to rid hands of the smell of garlic or onions after preparation.
Garden: Sprinkle the tea leaves into the garden as a form of mulch and nutrition to plants.

Cleaning: In some Eastern cultures, a solution of tea is used to disinfect and cleanse things like yoga and sleeping mats. Use tea for deodorizing and cleaning where applicable. Just note that wet tea leaves can stain, so test in an inconspicuous area before using on a large area. TF083574

(MS) — Did you know the U.S. Congress passed an energy bill in 2007 banning the incandescent light bulb by the year 2014? That's because the incandescent bulb, the one Thomas Edison helped perfect in the 1800s, has been superceded by the compact fluorescent light (CFL) and LEDs because of their benefits to the environment.

But could the CFL really be too good to be true? Less than a month after the U.S. energy bill was passed, research in Britain has led to the UK Environment Agency issuing guidelines about CFLs. They're calling for evacuation of any room where an energy-saving compact fluorescent light bulb is broken, due to the release of toxic mercury.

According to environmental impact studies, CFLs stand to save at least five million tons of carbon dioxide emissions every year. They also are more cost-effective in the long run: CFLs are more expensive than incandescent bulbs up front, but through longer burn times and less energy usage, they save home and business owners money. But each CFL contains 6 to 8 milligrams of toxic mercury. Broken bulbs, where mercury could be released into a home, and even improper disposal of the bulbs present separate environmental problems.

If a CFL bulb is broken, these suggestions are offered:

• Vacate the room for at least 15 minutes.

• The debris should be removed with rubber gloves. Do not use a vacuum, which could push toxic dust into the air.

• Put all broken glass and debris into a sealed bag and bring to a recycling center for proper disposal.

Other Impacts of CFL's
In a side note, mercury poisoning is not the only health implication from CFLs. Early studies indicate that people suffering from certain skin ailments, such as eczema and psoriasis, could experience flare ups. There has been a link to CFLs and migraine headaches. If you suspect your bulbs are causing health problems, see your doctor. TF083575

(MS) — When the topic of conversation inevitably turns toward the state of the environment, the term “carbon footprint” is frequently uttered. While many people nod their heads in comprehension, many do not have a clue what “carbon footprint” actually means.

When the words “carbon footprint” are used, they indicate a measurement of the amount of carbon dioxide or CO2 emitted through the combustion of fossil fuels. The carbon footprint applies in the case of an organization, business or enterprise — as part of their everyday operations or, in the case of an individual or household, as part of their daily lives. Basically it is the impact people have on the environment based on the levels of greenhouse gases produced, measured in units of carbon dioxide.
According to CarbonFootprint.com, a carbon footprint is made up of the sum of two parts, the direct/primary footprint and the indirect/secondary footprint.

1. The primary footprint is a measure of our direct emission of CO2 from the burning of fossil fuels, including domestic energy consumption and transportation (e.g. cars and planes).

2. The secondary footprint is a measure of the indirect CO2 emissions from the whole life cycle of products we use — those associated with their manufacture and eventual breakdown.

A typical person’s carbon footprint features a similar breakdown. Home heating and cooling needs, electricity usage and travel needs make up the largest shares of the carbon footprint pie. Recreation and leisure, as well as use of public services make up other high areas of impact.

Reduction of the Footprint

The goal of being informed about a carbon footprint is to reduce it. Reducing a primary footprint involves finding more environmentally friendly methods of running the household, including energy-efficient heating/cooling systems, conserving electricity and water usage, etc. Reducing a secondary footprint requires a little more thought, especially when it applies to consumer purchases. Think about how items are manufactured and from where they are imported. Avoid goods shipped from far distances or those packaged in a lot of excess wrapping. These things contribute more to a carbon footprint. In the majority of areas in the United States, Canada and Europe the water is safe to drink. So simply eliminating bottled water from your lifestyle can help reduce a carbon footprint as well.

Carbon Offsetting

In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, there are ways to offset the levels of CO2 in the environment. One of the easiest things for a typical family to do so is surround themselves with more “green,” and not the kind stored in a wallet. Trees, shrubs and other plants absorb CO2 for life and expel oxygen. The more trees and plants planted, the better the environment will be. It is estimated that one broad leaf tree will absorb approximately 730kg (1650 pounds) of carbon dioxide during the course of its life (approximately 100 years).

Not only does planting greenery improve the air and environment, it also provides wildlife habitats and makes for a better quality of living. TF083580

(MS) — The efficiency of the home we live in is at the core of environmental responsibility.
When building, or renovating, for example, the right questions and decisions will put you in complete control of the construction materials – and anyone prone to allergies, will have even more incentive to do so.

Paying attention to your home’s structural elements – and eliminating wood – will go a long way to control illness-causing mould for example. Instead, consider the benefits of concrete. Take a look at the innovative, pre-assembled concrete forms supplied by Nudura, for example.

It is reported that this company’s Lego-like system – using foam panels (EPS) held together with polypropylene webs and reinforced concrete – makes construction easier and faster. It delivers double the insulation and for those looking to control allergy-causing mould spores, this concrete alternative eliminates gaps in our walls where moisture collects. Additional data shows that buildings using the EPS system are up to nine times stronger, provide far more fire protection, far more sound insulation and can produce energy savings of up to 70 percent. More information is available online at Nudura.com. SH082591

(MS) — Insist on the total control of construction materials when building your dream home, experts say. There is choice, especially when it comes to environmental responsibility. For example, many more people are insisting on homes built with concrete walls, instead of wood. One popular choice is the Nudura building system. This innovation provides double the insulation by constructing walls, with pre-assembled, concrete forms along with the use of ceiling and floor technology creating an entire building envelope. This innovation is said to make the job design-friendly, much faster, creates less construction waste, and provides defence against mould that is so commonly a problem with traditional building methods. Money is saved because of durability and energy efficiency – and the resulting structure is reported to be up to nine times stronger, provides far more fire protection, far more sound insulation, and can produce energy savings of up to 70 percent. More information is available online at: Nudura.com. SH082594

(MS) — Concrete is the preferred building material in construction these days, especially for homeowners with an eye on energy efficiency and the use of sustainable materials. It is reported that the latest technology of the Nudura building system for example, provides double the insulation by constructing walls with pre-assembled, stay-in-place EPS concrete forms. Along with the use of ceiling and floor technology it creates an entire building envelope.

This innovation – consisting of Lego-like blocks of reinforced concrete sandwiched between two layers of polystyrene – is said to make the job design-friendly, much faster, This innovation is said to make the job design-friendly, much faster, creates less construction waste, and provides defence against mould that is so commonly a problem with traditional building methods. Money is saved because of durability and energy efficiency – and the resulting structure is reported to be up to nine times stronger, provides far more fire protection, far more sound insulation, and can produce energy savings of up to 70 percent in both heating and cooling.

Here, from Nudura, a leading name in building technology, are the answers to the most frequently asked questions on this subject:

Q: Will the concrete walls help to eliminate drafts, cold spots and dampness in the home?
A: Research indicates that building with this type of reinforced concrete form will make your structure up to 9x more resistant to the discomforts of thermal bridging in which outside cold travels easily through walls to create cold spots, drafts, and mustiness inside the home.

Q: Why is the method superior to wood stick framing?
A: In addition to producing a house that is stronger, better insulated, more sound resistant and fire resistant, far greater energy efficiency is achieved because concrete walls transfer heat at a much slower rate- and this newest technology creates an airtight building envelope. Combined with an advanced air filtration system, this construction method, known as Integrated Building Technology, delivers a significant advantage for cost saving and comfort.

Q: How is the indoor environment affected?
A: In addition to eliminating drafts, cold spots and dampness in the home, concrete walls, combined with ceiling and floor technology, create a building envelope that is airtight. Unlike wood walls where moisture gets trapped and mould starts to form, the building envelope eliminates gaps where mould and mildew grow. The Nudura method can be up to three times more sound resistant and by eliminating toxic mould growth allows your family to breathe not only fresh air, but clean air.

More information on this topic is available online at nudura.com or at 866-468-6299. SH082590

(MS) — You can think green when shopping. One of the easiest ways to help the environment while shopping is to buy items in the largest size your household will use. For example, instead of buying individual servings of cereal or yogurt, think about buying larger boxes or containers. Small sizes of items typically use more packaging for each ounce of product than larger sizes. Smaller sizes may also be more expensive when compared side-by-side to the total net weight or quantity of larger packages. So shopping in bulk can actually save money and the environment, to boot. TF081344

(MS) — Indoor air quality is a growing concern for homeowners, and testing has indicated that the air many people breathe indoors may be poorer than outdoor air. With more concern than ever about the pollutants in our environment, that “new carpet smell” might take on a more serious meaning.

The causes are varied, but volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are some of the most common contributors to indoor air pollution. VOCs can be found in many household products including paints and lacquers, plywood, particleboard, adhesives, paint strippers, insulation, paneling, and flooring.
Thanks to misinformation, many people believe that carpeting and rugs are a big contributor to poor indoor air. This actually isn’t the case. “Carpet is a safe, cost-effective and fashionable choice for many indoor settings and may in fact contribute to removing pollutants from the air,” says David Forman, marketing director for Nourison, a leader in today’s floor covering market.

According to the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), carpet is one of the lowest emitters of volatile organic compounds in the home. And companies like Nourison are making strides to make their products ever safer for consumers, reducing indoor air pollution.

A Green Choice
CRI offers in-depth testing programs, called Green Label and Green Label Plus, to identify healthier carpet and rug options. A Green Label indicates that a rug or carpet (plus, cushioning and adhesives) is emitting the lowest level of VOCs possible and indicates that a product is one of the industry’s best for indoor air quality. This year, CRI has certified dozens of broadloom collections from Nourison, Certification by Green Label Plus.

In order to earn and maintain Green Label Plus certifications, carpet and adhesives undergo a three tier testing process (initial, quarterly and annually), to monitor continued compliance with the program’s requirements. Products are tested for emission levels of VOCs and dozens of chemicals and adhesives, and only those that meet stringent test levels are awarded Green Label Plus certification.

Nourison’s Collections identified for the very best indoor air quality include a number of signature collections: Nourison 2000; Ashton House; Ashton 92; Grand Parterre; Grand Textures; Grand Velvet; Heritage Hall; and Grand Chalet; as well as new introductions Harmony, Lineage, Allure, Majesty, Monet, Paradise, Renoir, Melody, Da Vinci, Rembrandt and Madison.

To learn more about Green Label Plus, visit www.carpet-rug.org. To view Nourison rugs that have earned the Green Label Plus certification, visit www.nourison.com. SH082489

(MS) — Making your lawn green — and doing your part to help the Earth become more green, too — just got easier, thanks to a new product offering and environmental stewardship tips from the maker of Sta-Green products, the proprietary lawn and garden supplier for Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse.

The new line of Sta-Green fertilizers eliminates the phosphorus from the product formulas while continuing to provide the great value and performance expected from the Sta-Green brand. Lowe’s will be the first retailer to carry a national product line that is completely phosphorus-free.

“We want to provide the solutions to homeowners that allow them to create beautiful, healthy lawns, but also give them the resources to create a sound environmental stewardship program for their homes,” said Rob Rogan, business director of Sta-Green products. “Together with Lowe’s, we are now offering homeowners an alternative product line that delivers great results and, when combined with smart environmental lawn care practices, helps them to enhance the positive effects of a healthy lawn on the environment.”

Phosphorus is commonly found in soil, and along with nitrogen and potassium, is one of the three major nutrients that make lawn turf healthy, lush and thick. Some surface waters, however, may contain excessive levels of nutrients so that even small sources of phosphorus in runoff can contribute to water quality issues. These nutrient-rich waters can result in a proliferation of blue-green algae and certain water plants.

Sta-Green phosphorus-free products are specially formulated to complement the phosphorus already present in most soils. They will give turf the additional primary nutrients needed for a good turf feeding and excellent results.

What Does Phosphorus-Free Mean for Your Lawn?

Many established lawns can utilize phosphorus that is already present in the soil. In many areas of the country, there is enough phosphorus in the soil to sustain healthy plant growth, allowing the maker of Sta-Green products to eliminate the phosphorus in its fertilizers and still deliver beautiful, lush results to your lawn. Sound lawn care practices, such as returning grass clippings to the lawn, will help promote a gorgeous green lawn and minimize impact to the environment.

“Soils in many regions of the country have enough phosphorus to support healthy grass, providing you take care of it properly,” said Rogan. “Homeowners who aren’t sure about their lawn’s condition can have their soil tested to determine if they have adequate phosphorus. If they have insufficient phosphorus for their existing lawn, they can use Sta-Green Xtended Feed Turf Fertilizer for a five-month feed. Used correctly, it will help build the phosphorus level of the lawn to a healthy standard."

Sta-Green phosphorus-free products are available exclusively at Lowe’s Home Improvement Warehouse. For more information about the Sta-Green product offerings, visit www.Sta-Green.com. SH082475

(MS) — Spring is the season most often associated with a new beginning. After a winter spent braving the winter cold, the spring season is a time to get up and go and enjoy all that nature has to offer.

One of the more common things associated with spring is spring cleaning, a time when people rid themselves of clutter and get around to those projects they’ve been putting off for months. But spring can also be a time for spring “greening,” where homeowners take a new approach to some household chores in an effort to help do their part for the environment. Fortunately, there are many easy ways to help the environment without having to expend too much energy.

• Let nature do your drying: Even the most environmentally-friendly dryers use a significant amount of energy. While some items require using the dryer in order to dry properly, others can dry just as well when hung on a backyard clothesline. Bed linens and even towels will dry effectively on a sunny spring day, and you’ll notice a dip in the energy bill to boot.

• Part ways with paper towels: Disposable items that you use only once and then throw away are very damaging to the environment. Instead of paper towels, use dish towels for spills and keep extras around the kitchen to be ready for potential spills. Also, use china instead of paper plates. Since spring is a time when backyard barbecues begin again, stock up on reusable plastic plates so the next barbecue can be both fun and environmentally friendly.

• Ready yourself for the rain: Spring is a time for rejuvenation, but it’s also a time for rain. While most people aren’t fond of the spring rains, they do present a good opportunity to help the environment. Rather than let rain run out of the gutters and into a nearby drain, consider placing a rain barrel at the bottom spout of your gutters. Rain water will accumulate in the barrel, and that water can then be reused to water plants and flowers on days when it isn’t raining. While it might seem minor, it will save a substantial amount of water in the long run.

• Replace the light bulbs: Understandably, many people prefer brighter bulbs in the winter months, when the sun is not out as long and homes are darker as a result. However, once daylight savings time comes in the spring, consider replacing high wattage bulbs with either lower wattage models or, ideally, energy efficient bulbs. When such bulbs are combined with the increased sunlight, you won’t even notice the difference.

• Organize your errands: Because spring is so commonly used as a time for fixing up around the house, there always seems to be an excess of errands to run. Rather than making several small trips, however, take time to write down the day’s errands and tackle them all at once. This will not only save on gas, but it will save you lots of time, too.

• Ride to work: Now that the weather’s warming up, if you live close to your office consider riding your bike to work rather than driving. Like other environmentally friendly practices, riding your bike to work has dual benefits, helping the environment out while simultaneously providing a good source of exercise. TF082461

(MS) — As the world grows more environmentally conscious, a common question keeps rolling off the tongues of concerned citizens: what can I do? One of the biggest problems is that the headline-grabbing issues, such as global warming and resource depletion, appear too intimidating and much too far along for regular people to make a difference.

While it’s understandable for people to feel a sense of hopelessness, in reality there is much everyone can do to begin turning around the state of the environment. Consider the case of water. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average person uses 60 gallons of water per day. Seem high? That’s because it is. Experts note that the average individual could decrease his daily water use by 15 to 20 percent and barely notice it. In that light, the issue of water conservation doesn’t seem so daunting, does it?
It shouldn’t. In fact, trimming water usage can be done in a number of easy and inexpensive ways — ways that will not only save more water, but end up saving individuals money as well.

• Look for leaks: Leaky faucets and toilets are some of the biggest wasters of water today. And more often than not, these leaks are silent assassins, not even audible to those who are closely listening for them. A leaky toilet, for instance, can silently waste up to 200 gallons of per day. Discovering if a toilet is leaking can be as simple as a food coloring test. Simply add food coloring to the toilet’s tank. If color appears in the bowl without flushing, the toilet is leaking. Another method is to examine the meter while no water is being used. If the dial is moving, there’s a leak. Consult a plumber if either case is true.

• Stop running the water: While this seems simple, many people keep their water running when they really don’t need to, such as when they’re brushing their teeth, shaving or washing their hands and face. According to Denver Water, a family of four that stops running the faucet while brushing their teeth can expect to save 800 gallons of water per month. Should the same family mandate that the washing machine be full in order to do a wash, they’ll save more than 2,000 gallons of water per month. While saying “stop running the water” sounds simple, the results are anything but minimal.

• Flush toilets only when necessary: Many people flush a toilet more than once when using the bathroom. Unfortunately, each flush is six gallons of water. Flush only when necessary and do not use the toilet as a fancy garbage can.

• Install water-friendly products: Thanks to the growing emphasis on conservation, numerous products exist to help conserve water. Low-flow faucet aerators, for example, can reduce water flow by as much as 50 percent, even though it will seem as though the water pressure has gotten stronger. There are also water-saving shower heads that are equipped with on/off valves, allowing the water to be stopped and restarted. Best of all, once restarted, the temperature has not changed and does not need to be readjusted.

Another water-friendly product is a front-loading washing machine. Front-loading washing machines use 40 to 60 percent less water, and use less energy as well (as much as 50 percent less according to some estimates). Much of those energy savings are due to the fact that front-loading washers extract 35 percent more water than top-loading washers, meaning it doesn’t take as much time (and, as a result, energy) to dry your clothes once they’ve been washed. In addition, some state governments offer tax credits and rebates to those who have purchased a front-loading washer.

• Keep a pitcher of cold water in the refrigerator: This, too, can seem too simple to have any significant impact. However, consider the number of times a typical household drinks a glass of water each day. How much water is wasted running the faucet while waiting for the water to get cold? More than you’d likely think. Avoid this waste by simply keeping a pitcher of cold water in the refrigerator. Not only will it conserve water, but it will save time as well. TF081321

(MS) — Over the last 10 to 20 years, many communities have heightened their recycling programs. While this has done much to help the environment, in the United States much more can still be done.
According to the World Resources Institute, Americans generate roughly 4.4 pounds of waste per person, per day. That’s more than double the waste generated by the average person in Spain, and nearly triple that of the average person in Finland. So while the heightened efforts throughout the country are a good start, there’s clearly more that can be done.

Many Americans are beginning to do more by “precycling,” a means of reducing the amount of resources needed to manufacture goods. This helps combat the ever-growing problem of resource depletion that continues to make frightening headlines on a daily basis. By following the tips below, Americans can do their part to slow down resource depletion, and do so in a way that will have little or no impact on their daily lives.

• Bring bags to the grocery store. In an effort to encourage environmentally-conscious behavior, many supermarket chains sell reusable cloth bags that can be used in place of more traditional, environmentally irresponsible choices like paper or plastic. Even if your local store does not offer such a product, a simple cloth bag strong enough to hold groceries will suffice.

• Embrace the scraps. Lots of factory-made products are actually made out of scraps. For example, remnants from paper factories are often used to create stationary that’s just as useful and appealing as traditional stationary. The products, which are growing in number seemingly by the day, are often labeled “precycled,” making it easier to pick them out.

• Dispose of disposable items. The cultural emphasis on convenience that has taken place in the United States over the last several decades has taken its toll on the environment. That emphasis is one reason it’s no great surprise that Americans generate so much waste on a daily basis.

Fortunately, this trend can be stopped. Products such as paper plates, styrofoam cups and other items that are typically used only once before being discarded aren’t necessities. Bring a travel mug to the coffee shop each morning (some shops even offer discounts to those who bring their own, reusable mugs) instead of using the shop-supplied styrofoam cup. If you don’t want to use the good china for your next backyard barbecue, replace paper plates with reusable plastic plates that are more friendly to the environment.

• Part with the packaging. Whether giving gifts or just in your daily shopping, avoid excess packaging. When giving gifts, don’t waste all that wrapping paper if a reusable gift bag will provide the same effect. On a daily basis, when choosing between two similar products, choose the one with less packaging. Companies do market research on just about everything, including how a product is packaged. If enough people steer clear of products with too much packaging, eventually that trend will get back to the marketing department and change the way the product is packaged. TF081336.