April 2008 Archives
blogThe Grass Is Always Greener
By Pablo Pereira, KNBC
First of all - I am not a LAWN Expert. Let me repeat that... I am not a LAWN Expert! But for our Going Green segment, we will take a look at alternatives to the traditional green lawns so many of us have come to expect.
Let me start off with a little history. I am not a LAWN expert. Did I say that already? My history with lawns is not a good one. I have struggled with lawnmowers, chemicals and weed eaters all in search of the perfect green lawn for my home. Despite my best efforts my lawns always seem to look different than the neighbors. My first home was not a problem, at least in the beginning. The house was small and the lawn area even smaller. So in most cases, I was able to keep the lawn somewhat green, but with time the problems would arise. Too much water? Too little fertilizer? I haven't a clue. But brown patches would develop. Weeds would take over the lawn and I was no longer sure what I was mowing. My solution was to always water, water, water. Probably too much. Trying to figure out what fertilizer to use was always an issue for me. This one in the spring, that one in the fall and another for the summer - can't forget winter! Those spreaders you worked by hand always seem inefficient... so my solution was always to just grab a handful and toss it everywhere. No wonder my lawns never looked good.
blogThe Gifts of Earth Day
By Mary Beth Gonzalez, iVillage.com
On Earth Day, I joined over 150 NBCU volunteers to plant trees in Harlem. The Green Is Universal team selected the specific location at Lenox Avenue and Malcolm Boulevard because the neighborhood had a low tree population and a high children's asthma rate. (A few weeks ago, my husband wrote Green Medicine: Solutions to the Children's Asthma Epidemic if you want more information on how trees can lower the incidence of asthma.)
I signed up because I thought planting trees would be fun... I welcomed that chance to get out into the sun (and away from my Blackberry) for a few hours and celebrate Earth Day with my fellow green friends. I pictured us placing small saplings in little holes, cutting a few ribbons and posing for a few photo ops. Let's just say that I learned a lot this Earth Day...
On Earth Day, I joined over 150 NBCU volunteers to plant trees in Harlem. The Green Is Universal team selected the specific location at Lenox Avenue and Malcolm Boulevard because the neighborhood had a low tree population and a high children's asthma rate. (A few weeks ago, my husband wrote Green Medicine: Solutions to the Children's Asthma Epidemic if you want more information on how trees can lower the incidence of asthma.)
I signed up because I thought planting trees would be fun... I welcomed that chance to get out into the sun (and away from my Blackberry) for a few hours and celebrate Earth Day with my fellow green friends. I pictured us placing small saplings in little holes, cutting a few ribbons and posing for a few photo ops. Let's just say that I learned a lot this Earth Day...
blogOff the Grid, Part 5: Cooking Smores with the Solar Spark Lighter
By Steven Leckart, DVICE.com
Welcome to the final installment in DVICE's off-the-grid experiment. Since Earth Week kicked off Monday, I've been blogging from my home office in San Francisco without plugging into the municipal power grid.
Life has been anything but normal, and I'm now officially tallying up the seconds as this week comes to an end (39,600, but who's counting?... oh right, me). To celebrate, I tried cooking low-tech for the first time since I failed to brew a cup of solar joe. Get the smoking-hot details and my reflections on this stressful week after the Continue jump.
Welcome to the final installment in DVICE's off-the-grid experiment. Since Earth Week kicked off Monday, I've been blogging from my home office in San Francisco without plugging into the municipal power grid.
Life has been anything but normal, and I'm now officially tallying up the seconds as this week comes to an end (39,600, but who's counting?... oh right, me). To celebrate, I tried cooking low-tech for the first time since I failed to brew a cup of solar joe. Get the smoking-hot details and my reflections on this stressful week after the Continue jump.
blogMy Eco-Mean Fitness Routine
By Leslie Goldman, iVillage.com
I have recently come to realize that I am the most horrifying monstrosity of non-eco-chicness to ever walk the face of our ailing earth.
Or the floors of my local gym, anyway.
It started to dawn on me when I found myself tossing plastic cup after plastic cup away during my daily workouts. Considering the fact I live in a near-constant state of dehydration - I hate H20, preferring Diet A&W and Starbucks Americanos instead - I've always been grateful to my health club for the water and ice machines dotted throughout. The span of time between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. is pretty much the only time I actually gulp water with pleasure and abandon, during and after a sweaty StepMill session. But all of my cups, along with my co-members', go straight into the garbage. The non-recyclable kind. I've had it in my mind to say something to the owner of the place but haven't gotten around to it.
I have recently come to realize that I am the most horrifying monstrosity of non-eco-chicness to ever walk the face of our ailing earth.
Or the floors of my local gym, anyway.
It started to dawn on me when I found myself tossing plastic cup after plastic cup away during my daily workouts. Considering the fact I live in a near-constant state of dehydration - I hate H20, preferring Diet A&W and Starbucks Americanos instead - I've always been grateful to my health club for the water and ice machines dotted throughout. The span of time between 6 a.m. and 7:30 a.m. is pretty much the only time I actually gulp water with pleasure and abandon, during and after a sweaty StepMill session. But all of my cups, along with my co-members', go straight into the garbage. The non-recyclable kind. I've had it in my mind to say something to the owner of the place but haven't gotten around to it.
blogIt's Not Easy Being "Green"!
By Phil Lempert, iVillage.com
When Kermit first uttered this now famous line, he didn't even imagine the implications for supermarket shopping. But now, as more of us want to do our fair share to protect the planet and ease the impact of products' global footprint by choosing wiser, we need a bit of help to really understand what these labels do (and don't) mean.
USDA Certified Organic - organic foods seem to be everywhere, but did you know there are different designations?
100 percent organic - Organic standards require that the land used to grow organic crops go through a three-year "transition period" to make sure the crops are free of synthetic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. All organic agriculture prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, irradiation, sewage sludge, and growth hormones, and no genetically modified organisms can be contained in anything labeled organic.
When Kermit first uttered this now famous line, he didn't even imagine the implications for supermarket shopping. But now, as more of us want to do our fair share to protect the planet and ease the impact of products' global footprint by choosing wiser, we need a bit of help to really understand what these labels do (and don't) mean.
USDA Certified Organic - organic foods seem to be everywhere, but did you know there are different designations?
100 percent organic - Organic standards require that the land used to grow organic crops go through a three-year "transition period" to make sure the crops are free of synthetic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers. All organic agriculture prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, irradiation, sewage sludge, and growth hormones, and no genetically modified organisms can be contained in anything labeled organic.
blogJunk Mail
If you weren't able to sign-up for greendimes.com service at the NBC Experience Store during Earth Week, you can still sign up for their services at greendimes.com.
$20 seems like a pretty good deal for 5 years worth of mail monitoring, but if you feel like saving all the fun for yourself, here are a few things you can do:
blogSave the Planet
By Anne Chertoff, iVillage.com
If you're looking to do a little more for Mother Earth on your wedding day, and you've already ordered recycled paper invitations and organically and locally grown flowers for your arrangements, here's another item to add to your eco-chic wedding.
Instead of reserving a limo or Rolls Royce for your trip from the church to the reception, put an eco-friendly car on hold. Commonwealth Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation is now offering environmentally friendly hybrid cars to customers in Boston and New York.
If you're looking to do a little more for Mother Earth on your wedding day, and you've already ordered recycled paper invitations and organically and locally grown flowers for your arrangements, here's another item to add to your eco-chic wedding.
Instead of reserving a limo or Rolls Royce for your trip from the church to the reception, put an eco-friendly car on hold. Commonwealth Worldwide Chauffeured Transportation is now offering environmentally friendly hybrid cars to customers in Boston and New York.
blogCollege Café Leftovers Powering Professor's Cars
By Ginger Zee, NBC - Chicago
When I fondly reflect on college, the cafeteria surely doesn't pop as a positive. But
at Loyola University in Chicago, it will be for one group of students changing the world with leftover grease from the café. It's Chicago's own on the cutting edge of bio-fuel technology.
I ran across this story while covering another 'green' event at a new restaurant in the Windy City (The Uncommon Ground). A fully acoustic and dedicated green group of rockers - The Giving Tree Band - were playing as I enjoyed an eco-tini (like s martini - just friendlier - earth-wise). When suddenly a group of seemingly marauding college students rushed the kitchen and said, "We're taking your grease!"
When I fondly reflect on college, the cafeteria surely doesn't pop as a positive. But
at Loyola University in Chicago, it will be for one group of students changing the world with leftover grease from the café. It's Chicago's own on the cutting edge of bio-fuel technology.
I ran across this story while covering another 'green' event at a new restaurant in the Windy City (The Uncommon Ground). A fully acoustic and dedicated green group of rockers - The Giving Tree Band - were playing as I enjoyed an eco-tini (like s martini - just friendlier - earth-wise). When suddenly a group of seemingly marauding college students rushed the kitchen and said, "We're taking your grease!"
blogFeeling 'Green' ...sure hope so!
By Jorge D. Bernal, Al Rojo Vivo -Telemundo
Green. Never has this color been in the spotlight like it has been recently. Sure we know the Hulk, the Grinch, the 'special' green M&M's...but now green is more universal than ever, and for good reason.
I must admit that I had never been 'involved' in the planets affairs...Sure I planted my trees on Earth Day like every other school kids, but that was about it. Maybe it was because Mother Nature wasn't doing so bad back then. But boy have things changed.
According to the U.S Census Bureau, the world population is expanding at a mind-boggling rate. It's expected that by 2050, the world's population will reach 9 billion! That's a whole lot of people sharing the few natural resources we have left...definitely affecting the standard of living for our kids and grand kids. So, what can we do? How can we help preserve our clean air, our fuel resources and soil?...nothing major really. It's actually quite simple to be 'green'.
Green. Never has this color been in the spotlight like it has been recently. Sure we know the Hulk, the Grinch, the 'special' green M&M's...but now green is more universal than ever, and for good reason.
I must admit that I had never been 'involved' in the planets affairs...Sure I planted my trees on Earth Day like every other school kids, but that was about it. Maybe it was because Mother Nature wasn't doing so bad back then. But boy have things changed.
According to the U.S Census Bureau, the world population is expanding at a mind-boggling rate. It's expected that by 2050, the world's population will reach 9 billion! That's a whole lot of people sharing the few natural resources we have left...definitely affecting the standard of living for our kids and grand kids. So, what can we do? How can we help preserve our clean air, our fuel resources and soil?...nothing major really. It's actually quite simple to be 'green'.
blogBiodynamic Wine
By Kris Sanchez, NBC KNTV
I like wine... from the good stuff to the stuff that comes in a box my roommates and I loved in college, I'm not too picky. I'd like to think I have a decent palate, but I have rarely sent a glass back. That being said, tasting biodynamic wine was a whole new experience for me.
First of all, I thought biodynamic wine sounded like something out of the future, engineered and tweaked in a lab. In a visit to the Bonny Doon Vineyard in Santa Cruz, I found out quite the opposite is true.
As I am expecting my second child, I took my husband Chris along for the tasting along with my 20-month old daughter Isabel. Turns out, founder Randall Grahm's own young daughter was part of the impetus for the sale of his more commercial labels which sold 400,000 cases a year to concentrate on making just 35,000 cases of biodynamic wine he says are better for the body and the environment.
Biodynamic growing is about getting back to old world ways of winemaking, letting the vines extract everything they need from the soil they're planted in and the air around them. Okay, up to this point, I think this sounds like the organic movement. Here's where it gets a little out there.
blogGoing Green Goes Mainstream
By Terry Ruggles, WCAU NBC 10 Philadelphia
Like a fog that touches everything "going green" is growing. Once a passion for tree huggers, the environment is now mainstream. You'll find environmentally friendly people from living rooms to corporate boardrooms.
Like a fog that touches everything "going green" is growing. Once a passion for tree huggers, the environment is now mainstream. You'll find environmentally friendly people from living rooms to corporate boardrooms.
blogThe Low Carbon Diet
By Nicole Ohebshalom, Radiant Living Wellness
The global food and agriculture system produces 1/3 of
humanity's contribution to greenhouse gases. The concern is not just paper or plastic anymore. Consumers are turning their attention to their meals and food shopping experience. These conscious consumers who want to tread lightly are becoming more
concerned about their carbon footprint. When choosing food people are shifting from "Will this make me fat?" to "Is it good for the plant?"
The global food and agriculture system produces 1/3 of
humanity's contribution to greenhouse gases. The concern is not just paper or plastic anymore. Consumers are turning their attention to their meals and food shopping experience. These conscious consumers who want to tread lightly are becoming more
concerned about their carbon footprint. When choosing food people are shifting from "Will this make me fat?" to "Is it good for the plant?"
blogEco-Anxiety?
By Perri Peltz, WNBC
Does the sight of carbon dioxide spewing from a tail pipe send you into a frenzy? Do 70 degree days in the middle of winter put you into a panic- do you try and avoid air travel because you don't want to expand your ever growing carbon footprint? Or do you worry that your city will one soon become one with the ocean?
If you answered yes to any of these, unscientific, questions, then you may be suffering from the latest neurosis to hit the city streets- it's called Eco Anxiety, and believe it or not its real.
Does the sight of carbon dioxide spewing from a tail pipe send you into a frenzy? Do 70 degree days in the middle of winter put you into a panic- do you try and avoid air travel because you don't want to expand your ever growing carbon footprint? Or do you worry that your city will one soon become one with the ocean?
If you answered yes to any of these, unscientific, questions, then you may be suffering from the latest neurosis to hit the city streets- it's called Eco Anxiety, and believe it or not its real.
blogGreen Screens End of Week Update
By Susanne Sonderhoff, Marketing Manager, HP Social, Environmental Responsibility
I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone in New York and around the country that has come out during Earth Week 2008 to responsibly dispose of their old electronics. While there are many industries that have a very obvious impact on the environment, technology is not typically the first that comes to mind since the production and use of technology products doesn't directly involve carving holes into the earth, felling trees, or using up excessive amounts of water. So why are tech companies taking environmental issues so seriously?
I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone in New York and around the country that has come out during Earth Week 2008 to responsibly dispose of their old electronics. While there are many industries that have a very obvious impact on the environment, technology is not typically the first that comes to mind since the production and use of technology products doesn't directly involve carving holes into the earth, felling trees, or using up excessive amounts of water. So why are tech companies taking environmental issues so seriously?
ask mr. greenGood (Tree) Fences Make Good Neighbors
Dear Mr. Green,
To my horror, there is a trend running through my neighborhood. The cutting down of trees! One of the houses is being prepped to sell and yet another neighbor's home had just been sold, when - buzz - there went a beautiful old maple and a few ornamental cherry trees. Mr. Green, I ask you, in this day and age, how can the lack of greenery on a property make it more saleable or appealing and how can I get my neighbors to stop this nonsense?
Signed,
Tree Hugger
blogHappy Arbor Day, Now Plant a Tree
By Nicole Walters, GreenisUniversal.com
The kind folks at mokugift.com have even made it easy for you. Just send GreenisUniversal.com an eTree and mokugift will work with Sustainable Harvest International to get a real tree planted.
It only costs a dollar a tree, plus look at how lonely our little bunny is...
The kind folks at mokugift.com have even made it easy for you. Just send GreenisUniversal.com an eTree and mokugift will work with Sustainable Harvest International to get a real tree planted.
It only costs a dollar a tree, plus look at how lonely our little bunny is...
blogGo Amish with the Hand-Crank USB Power Charger
By Kevin Hall, DVICE.com
You've been babied by power outlets for far too long -- if you want charged gadgets, then put a little elbow grease into it! The Hand-Crank USB Power Charger will work on most phones (and the rest, with adapters), cameras... anything with a USB port, really. It may just be your best friend on the road, where outlets are nowhere to be found, or sitting in an airport when you need some extra juice in a pinch.
You've been babied by power outlets for far too long -- if you want charged gadgets, then put a little elbow grease into it! The Hand-Crank USB Power Charger will work on most phones (and the rest, with adapters), cameras... anything with a USB port, really. It may just be your best friend on the road, where outlets are nowhere to be found, or sitting in an airport when you need some extra juice in a pinch.
blogDay 5: Trees and Paper!
Follow the links and clues through ecofabulous.com and greenisuniversal.com archives to find answers to the daily trivia questions!
Submit your entry and, if correct, you will be eligible to win the prize of the day! Winners will be selected at random from the list of eligible entrants. Submissions for each daily trivia question will end when a new day's clue has been posted. All winners and answers will be posted at the end of Earth Week, April 27th.
Good Luck!
Day 5: Trees and Paper!
blog5 Ways the Oceans Could Go Environ-Mental If We Fail to Go Green
By Michael Marano, SCI FI Weekly
1. Godzilla vs. The Smog Monster, aka Gojira tai Hedorâ (1971)
In this demented and very likely LSD-influenced classic, which featured in its English version the insufferably catchy song "Save the Earth!", Hedorâ, a space spore, settles in Tokyo Bay like a kind of invasive algae and starts feeding on the pollution there. Billions of little Hedorâs eating oceanic pollution might sound like a great idea, but the little buggers merge into a series of different, larger forms: a giant sludge tadpole, a kind of humanoid that takes hits off of smokestacks the way Harold and Kumar take hits off of bongs and a stingray-shaped flying thing that mists the city with sulfuric acid and dissolves tens of thousands of people. The big monster also spits out a corrosive, toxic goop like something pulled from a well sunk into Love Canal. It's up to Godzilla to kick some polluted butt in an infamously campy and protracted battle atop Mount Fuji. Noted for playing on a double bill with the also-eco-themed wildlife-run-amok movie Frogs.
1. Godzilla vs. The Smog Monster, aka Gojira tai Hedorâ (1971)
In this demented and very likely LSD-influenced classic, which featured in its English version the insufferably catchy song "Save the Earth!", Hedorâ, a space spore, settles in Tokyo Bay like a kind of invasive algae and starts feeding on the pollution there. Billions of little Hedorâs eating oceanic pollution might sound like a great idea, but the little buggers merge into a series of different, larger forms: a giant sludge tadpole, a kind of humanoid that takes hits off of smokestacks the way Harold and Kumar take hits off of bongs and a stingray-shaped flying thing that mists the city with sulfuric acid and dissolves tens of thousands of people. The big monster also spits out a corrosive, toxic goop like something pulled from a well sunk into Love Canal. It's up to Godzilla to kick some polluted butt in an infamously campy and protracted battle atop Mount Fuji. Noted for playing on a double bill with the also-eco-themed wildlife-run-amok movie Frogs.
blogGreening the NBCU Mailroom with GreenDimes.com
By Dan Estabrook, GreenDimes.com
I spent yesterday beginning the process of "greening" the NBC Universal Corporate Mailroom at 30 Rockefeller Plaza by eliminating the company's junk mail. If you don't know about GreenDimes, we are the trusted leaders in eliminating junk mail for consumers. When you purchase our full service reduction service, we also plant 5 trees to help offset the waste even more. You can find out more at www.greendimes.com.
GreenDimes is working with NBC Universal during Earth Week to promote junk mail elimination. If you visit the NBC Experience Store, you will find a kiosk where you can order our service. The windows at Rockefeller Center are decorated with junk mail exhibits and it was amazing to see the GreenDimes logo in the middle of it all. The whole display is eye-catching and very cool.
I arrived to the mailroom to find 17 boxes filled to the brim with junk sent to NBC over three days last week. I expected volumes, but I was shocked to find over 1,000 pounds of junk mail. Over an average week, that works out to just over 2,100 pounds (assuming not so much comes in on weekends). Per day, it equals 300 pounds (as much as the average household receives in one year, based on our data). That's three entire trees!
I spent yesterday beginning the process of "greening" the NBC Universal Corporate Mailroom at 30 Rockefeller Plaza by eliminating the company's junk mail. If you don't know about GreenDimes, we are the trusted leaders in eliminating junk mail for consumers. When you purchase our full service reduction service, we also plant 5 trees to help offset the waste even more. You can find out more at www.greendimes.com.
GreenDimes is working with NBC Universal during Earth Week to promote junk mail elimination. If you visit the NBC Experience Store, you will find a kiosk where you can order our service. The windows at Rockefeller Center are decorated with junk mail exhibits and it was amazing to see the GreenDimes logo in the middle of it all. The whole display is eye-catching and very cool.
I arrived to the mailroom to find 17 boxes filled to the brim with junk sent to NBC over three days last week. I expected volumes, but I was shocked to find over 1,000 pounds of junk mail. Over an average week, that works out to just over 2,100 pounds (assuming not so much comes in on weekends). Per day, it equals 300 pounds (as much as the average household receives in one year, based on our data). That's three entire trees!
blogSo Hot, We're So Hot!
By Nicole Walters, GreenisUniversal.com
Grab your kids! Or if you are just a big kid at heart, like me, sit down and prepare to be entertained!
When it comes to music, like most people who are not inclined, I say, I know what I like and what I don't like. With this song, as soon as the flowers sung "so hot, we're so hot" under the shade of the tree, I knew "like" was not strong enough a word. The next day I was still humming it. So I reached out to one of the co-creators, Harry Garfield, to see if I could put the video on GreenisUniversal.com. Catchy tune aside, the message, after all, is Green and to add to the Universal, Garfield is Executive Vice President of Music for Universal Pictures.
Grab your kids! Or if you are just a big kid at heart, like me, sit down and prepare to be entertained!
When it comes to music, like most people who are not inclined, I say, I know what I like and what I don't like. With this song, as soon as the flowers sung "so hot, we're so hot" under the shade of the tree, I knew "like" was not strong enough a word. The next day I was still humming it. So I reached out to one of the co-creators, Harry Garfield, to see if I could put the video on GreenisUniversal.com. Catchy tune aside, the message, after all, is Green and to add to the Universal, Garfield is Executive Vice President of Music for Universal Pictures.
blogEcoSneaks
Tires and Milk Jugs and Hemp... Oh My! ECOSNEAKS have arrived.
Shoes are personal. They not only protect your feet to get you to and from, but more importantly they help portray your personal style and at times can make a statement all on their own. I'm not going to lie, I participated in the jelly shoe trend and rocked heels of oh so many inches that at times I questioned my own sanity and love of fashion.
blogWhat's the Hex Code for Green?
By Dana J. Robinson, NBC Universal
If you don't know what a hex code is, don't sweat it - there are plenty of other ways for you to go green online! There are tons of ways to be proactive about saving the environment conveniently located on the web, which means you don't have to leave the house to participate. (Added bonus: you're also reducing your carbon footprint by not driving anywhere...win/win!)
My Baby Tree - http://www.mybabytree.org
The Indonesian rain forests are disappearing at an alarming rate, thanks to factors such as the country's massive rubber and palm oil industries. According to the site, forest the size of 6 football fields is destroyed illegally. People and animals, both in Borneo and around the world, need these forests in order to thrive. For a small donation, you can pay for a new tree to be planted...but it doesn't end there! You get to watch your tree grow up right before your eyes (and from the comfort of that sofa you're probably still on... ahem!)
If you don't know what a hex code is, don't sweat it - there are plenty of other ways for you to go green online! There are tons of ways to be proactive about saving the environment conveniently located on the web, which means you don't have to leave the house to participate. (Added bonus: you're also reducing your carbon footprint by not driving anywhere...win/win!)
My Baby Tree - http://www.mybabytree.org
The Indonesian rain forests are disappearing at an alarming rate, thanks to factors such as the country's massive rubber and palm oil industries. According to the site, forest the size of 6 football fields is destroyed illegally. People and animals, both in Borneo and around the world, need these forests in order to thrive. For a small donation, you can pay for a new tree to be planted...but it doesn't end there! You get to watch your tree grow up right before your eyes (and from the comfort of that sofa you're probably still on... ahem!)
blogBaggage
By Nicole Walters, GreenisUniversal.com
If you went to grade school with a girl who used oral reports as a forum for environmental issues, chances are you went to grade school with me. Since I can remember, I have been an advocate for the environment. So last year when my project launching hulu ended and the Green Is Universal project came across my desk, I jumped at the opportunity. It seemed a natural progression, no? From hand drawn posters of recycling bins and the ozone layer to digital versions of the same... and this way I get to save paper.
Being an advocate and actually being someone who does things to save the environment are two very different things. Launching a website like GreenisUniversal.com shined a light on all of the things that I wasn't doing, and as my knowledge grew, so did my list of personal commitments.
If you went to grade school with a girl who used oral reports as a forum for environmental issues, chances are you went to grade school with me. Since I can remember, I have been an advocate for the environment. So last year when my project launching hulu ended and the Green Is Universal project came across my desk, I jumped at the opportunity. It seemed a natural progression, no? From hand drawn posters of recycling bins and the ozone layer to digital versions of the same... and this way I get to save paper.
Being an advocate and actually being someone who does things to save the environment are two very different things. Launching a website like GreenisUniversal.com shined a light on all of the things that I wasn't doing, and as my knowledge grew, so did my list of personal commitments.
blogSlow Your Flow
By Ludi Hernandez, NBC Universal
A lack of water to meet daily needs is a reality for many people around the world and has serious health consequences. Globally, water scarcity already affects four out of every 10 people. The situation is getting worse due to population growth, urbanization and increased domestic and industrial water use.
The nation consumes about 402 billion gallons of water a year. The average North American consumes 170 gallons per day, more than seven times the per capita average in the rest of the world and nearly triple Europe's level. Wow! That's a lot of water!! While we consume more than we should, there are many people, globally, that face the challenge of getting adequate clean water, one of the most valuable resources essential to the environment and our lives.
Knowing this, I feel it is my responsibility to take action to save water! Here are a few things I do to save water at home (it also helps with reducing the water bill).
At home, there are every day appliances that can be water guzzlers! Following some of these easy steps can help reduce the amount of water we waste:
- Replace your Showerhead with an ultra low-flow version, saving up to 2.5 gallons per minute. This item can save you a couple hundreds of dollars on your water bill.
A lack of water to meet daily needs is a reality for many people around the world and has serious health consequences. Globally, water scarcity already affects four out of every 10 people. The situation is getting worse due to population growth, urbanization and increased domestic and industrial water use.
The nation consumes about 402 billion gallons of water a year. The average North American consumes 170 gallons per day, more than seven times the per capita average in the rest of the world and nearly triple Europe's level. Wow! That's a lot of water!! While we consume more than we should, there are many people, globally, that face the challenge of getting adequate clean water, one of the most valuable resources essential to the environment and our lives.
Knowing this, I feel it is my responsibility to take action to save water! Here are a few things I do to save water at home (it also helps with reducing the water bill).
At home, there are every day appliances that can be water guzzlers! Following some of these easy steps can help reduce the amount of water we waste:
- Replace your Showerhead with an ultra low-flow version, saving up to 2.5 gallons per minute. This item can save you a couple hundreds of dollars on your water bill.
blogDay 4: Green Your Cleaning!
Follow the links and clues through ecofabulous.com and greenisuniversal.com archives to find answers to the daily trivia questions!
Submit your entry and, if correct, you will be eligible to win the prize of the day! Winners will be selected at random from the list of eligible entrants. Submissions for each daily trivia question will end when a new day's clue has been posted. All winners and answers will be posted at the end of Earth Week, April 27th.
Good Luck!
Day 4: Green Your Cleaning
It's Day 4 of the Eco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt! Today's theme is Green Cleaning!
Read the fact and clues to answer the trivia question for a chance to win a set of fantastic, earth-friendly Method cleaning supplies from Spring home store in San Francisco.
blogLittle Things Make a Big Difference
By Carl Eckersley, Manager, Personal System Group Product Stewardship
I consider myself very fortunate and I am proud to work for a company that has valued corporate citizenship for over 50 years, caring for the environment and caring for others is part of who we are at HP. Even if your company doesn't have a history of environmental responsibility, it's never too late to get started. There are lots of simple things that any employee at any company can do to help reduce the impact of their workplace on the environment.
To get started, take a look at power use in the office. As an individual, you can ensure your PC always has power management features enabled, which will put it in "sleep" mode after a short period of inactivity. Some PCs, like those from HP, are built with energy-efficient features and ship with power management enabled, so looking for those types of features is always the energy smart choice when purchasing new equipment.
I consider myself very fortunate and I am proud to work for a company that has valued corporate citizenship for over 50 years, caring for the environment and caring for others is part of who we are at HP. Even if your company doesn't have a history of environmental responsibility, it's never too late to get started. There are lots of simple things that any employee at any company can do to help reduce the impact of their workplace on the environment.
To get started, take a look at power use in the office. As an individual, you can ensure your PC always has power management features enabled, which will put it in "sleep" mode after a short period of inactivity. Some PCs, like those from HP, are built with energy-efficient features and ship with power management enabled, so looking for those types of features is always the energy smart choice when purchasing new equipment.
blogLA Volunteers
By Susan Ballentine, NBC Universal
The NBC Universal volunteers were ready to roll. All of us boarding the big buses, donning our Green is Universal.com t-shirts, gloves in hand, hats and lots of smiles. The excitement on the bus was contagious - like when we were kids heading out for a school field trip. As we arrived at Griffith Park, the sun was warm and the air was crisp. The folks from the LA Conservation Corps, LA City PRec and Parks, LA City Councilmember Tom LaBonge and our company President, Ron Meyer were happy to see us and we were happy to be there.
The NBC Universal volunteers were ready to roll. All of us boarding the big buses, donning our Green is Universal.com t-shirts, gloves in hand, hats and lots of smiles. The excitement on the bus was contagious - like when we were kids heading out for a school field trip. As we arrived at Griffith Park, the sun was warm and the air was crisp. The folks from the LA Conservation Corps, LA City PRec and Parks, LA City Councilmember Tom LaBonge and our company President, Ron Meyer were happy to see us and we were happy to be there.
blogEarth Day 2008
By Rob Morrison, Anchor, WNBC
Here we are (Chris, Otis and me) reporting for duty in East Harlem. We were proud to join about 200 NBCU volunteers and members of the New York Restoration Project to plant trees at the Martin Luther King Jr. Housing Campus. It's all part of our ongoing Green is Universal "Earth Week."
We didn't mean to strike this Three Stooges looking pose, but we needed to fill out some forms and there was very limited table space, so...
Rob Morrison
Anchor, WNBC
Here we are (Chris, Otis and me) reporting for duty in East Harlem. We were proud to join about 200 NBCU volunteers and members of the New York Restoration Project to plant trees at the Martin Luther King Jr. Housing Campus. It's all part of our ongoing Green is Universal "Earth Week."
We didn't mean to strike this Three Stooges looking pose, but we needed to fill out some forms and there was very limited table space, so...
Rob Morrison
Anchor, WNBC
blogHarlem Goes Green on Earth Day
By Sheryl Hausman, NBC Universal
Getting up at the ungodly hour of 5am the morning of April 22nd is not my usual routine but for the day's activities, it was definitely worth it. I was going to be planting trees in East Harlem through NBC Volunteers to beautify the area and help reduce the rate of childhood asthma in that part of New York City.
Getting up at the ungodly hour of 5am the morning of April 22nd is not my usual routine but for the day's activities, it was definitely worth it. I was going to be planting trees in East Harlem through NBC Volunteers to beautify the area and help reduce the rate of childhood asthma in that part of New York City.
blogEarth Day in Dallas
By Nada J. Ruddock, NBC 5/KXAS-TV
We had 74 volunteers work the Earth Day Going Green NBCU/GE Volunteers event. Employees came from NBCU Volunteers as well as GE Volunteers, Groundwork Dallas, and the Jubilee Park neighborhood.
We had 74 volunteers work the Earth Day Going Green NBCU/GE Volunteers event. Employees came from NBCU Volunteers as well as GE Volunteers, Groundwork Dallas, and the Jubilee Park neighborhood.
blogNBC Unveils Eco-friendly Satellite Truck
By Paul J. Gough, HollywoodReporter.com
NBC Universal's push toward green business is sweeping over its newsgathering operation.
During Monday morning's "Today" show, the network is scheduled to take the wraps off what it calls the "mean green streaming machine," a hybrid SUV that leaves less of a footprint as it collects and transmits news from the road.
The white and green Ford Escape hybrid uses not only electric and gasoline power but also solar panels and wind turbines to recharge the batteries for its electronics gear.
NBC Universal's push toward green business is sweeping over its newsgathering operation.
During Monday morning's "Today" show, the network is scheduled to take the wraps off what it calls the "mean green streaming machine," a hybrid SUV that leaves less of a footprint as it collects and transmits news from the road.
The white and green Ford Escape hybrid uses not only electric and gasoline power but also solar panels and wind turbines to recharge the batteries for its electronics gear.
blogNew Yorkers Rally to Recycle
By Scott Rankin, VP of Technology Merchandising, Staples
Staples/HP Earth Week Campaign Has Recycled 6,000 Pounds of Technology Waste (& Counting)
To celebrate Earth Week, Staples & HP have teamed up to give New Yorkers the chance to recycle their outdated electronics for free. The campaign, which kicked off on The Today Show on Mon. April 21, lets anyone drop off their electronics for free recycling at Rockefeller Center Plaza and at Staples 76 stores in the five boroughs and Long Island from April 21-25th.
So far, the campaign has collected 6,000 pounds of electronic waste - including computers, monitors, cell phones and other electronics. By responsibly recycling this waste, we're keeping it out of landfills where it can pollute our air, water and soil.
Staples/HP Earth Week Campaign Has Recycled 6,000 Pounds of Technology Waste (& Counting)
To celebrate Earth Week, Staples & HP have teamed up to give New Yorkers the chance to recycle their outdated electronics for free. The campaign, which kicked off on The Today Show on Mon. April 21, lets anyone drop off their electronics for free recycling at Rockefeller Center Plaza and at Staples 76 stores in the five boroughs and Long Island from April 21-25th.
So far, the campaign has collected 6,000 pounds of electronic waste - including computers, monitors, cell phones and other electronics. By responsibly recycling this waste, we're keeping it out of landfills where it can pollute our air, water and soil.
blogIt's Easy Eating Green!
By Andrea Strong, Top Chef
This week at NBC we're celebrating everything Green, going an extra mile to try help fight the Global Climate Crisis. Eating vegetarian dovetails nicely with this mission. Thankfully, going vegetarian doesn't mean just bowls of sprouts and tofu anymore. New York City is home to some fairly sophisticated vegetarian restaurants that also happen to support local farmers and agriculture, which helps minimize the size of that carbon footprint caused by transporting out-of-season foods from places like California and South America to New York City.
While I am not a vegetarian, my brother and future brother-in-law are (they're both actually vegan), so I am no stranger to the issue of being an omnivore in a veggie-vore world. But honestly, these restaurants are so good, I frequent them even without my vegan crew in tow. Check them out and let me know your favorite Vegetarian restaurants too.
This week at NBC we're celebrating everything Green, going an extra mile to try help fight the Global Climate Crisis. Eating vegetarian dovetails nicely with this mission. Thankfully, going vegetarian doesn't mean just bowls of sprouts and tofu anymore. New York City is home to some fairly sophisticated vegetarian restaurants that also happen to support local farmers and agriculture, which helps minimize the size of that carbon footprint caused by transporting out-of-season foods from places like California and South America to New York City.
While I am not a vegetarian, my brother and future brother-in-law are (they're both actually vegan), so I am no stranger to the issue of being an omnivore in a veggie-vore world. But honestly, these restaurants are so good, I frequent them even without my vegan crew in tow. Check them out and let me know your favorite Vegetarian restaurants too.
blogMurphy's Law
By Kim Jack-Riley, Petside.com
Depending on where you live, Spring means something different to people all over the globe. But no matter what your climate or geographic region, it's generally agreed on that it's a season for new birth and fresh air... or, well how fresh exactly is it? Mosquito repellents, BBQ smoke and pollen mixed with pollution, all add to breathing difficulties... even for your pet.
Over at petside.com we've got a unique take on Earth Week and celebrating Spring with your pet. There are some happy thoughts that come to mind, like bunnies and robin's eggs... there's nothing my Sheltie loves more than sniffing around in a field of daffodils. Check out some pet-friendly ideas for enjoying spring with your pet here.
Depending on where you live, Spring means something different to people all over the globe. But no matter what your climate or geographic region, it's generally agreed on that it's a season for new birth and fresh air... or, well how fresh exactly is it? Mosquito repellents, BBQ smoke and pollen mixed with pollution, all add to breathing difficulties... even for your pet.
Over at petside.com we've got a unique take on Earth Week and celebrating Spring with your pet. There are some happy thoughts that come to mind, like bunnies and robin's eggs... there's nothing my Sheltie loves more than sniffing around in a field of daffodils. Check out some pet-friendly ideas for enjoying spring with your pet here.
blogEco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt: Day 3 - Candles!
Follow the links and clues through ecofabulous.com and greenisuniversal.com archives to find answers to the daily trivia questions!
Submit your entry and you will be eligible to win the prize of the day if your answer is correct! Winners will be selected at random from the list of eligible entrants. Submissions for each daily trivia question will end when a new day's clue has been posted. All winners and answers will be posted at the end of Earth Week, April 27th.
Good Luck!
Day 3: Candles
It's Day 3 of the Eco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt! Today's theme is candles.
Read the fact and clues to answer the trivia question for a chance to win a gorgeous set of clean burning Kobo Candles Spring Home Store in San Francisco.
ask mr. greenComposting For the Neat Freak
Dear Mr. Green,
I'm committed to being green and I want to create my own compost pile this year. Problem is, I don't like messes and a whole bunch of rotting garbage and worms seems like a big one to me. Any ideas on how I can contain the mess to a small area with out being unsightly or smelly?
Signed,
Clean Cut
I'm committed to being green and I want to create my own compost pile this year. Problem is, I don't like messes and a whole bunch of rotting garbage and worms seems like a big one to me. Any ideas on how I can contain the mess to a small area with out being unsightly or smelly?
Signed,
Clean Cut
blogMy Commitment to Green Wednesday
So Green Wednesday, the day after Earth Day, is here. Today
is a day when consumers can vote Green with their dollars and reward those
companies who offer eco-friendly products. I've been saving up my greenbacks and
researching my Green Wednesday purchases for weeks. It hasn't been easy to
think of new green things we can do since our lifestyle is already very green,
but I'm ready to start exercising my purchasing power!
My environmental commitment is focused in three areas: "good for me" green, "good for my family" green and "good for the planet" green. Here's where I'm putting my money today:
My environmental commitment is focused in three areas: "good for me" green, "good for my family" green and "good for the planet" green. Here's where I'm putting my money today:
blogSalvaging Demolished Barns
By Ryan Hanrahan, NBC Hartford
Jeff Bradley knows what it means to "go green." Several months ago I toured his unusual 10,000 square foot workspace in Clinton, CT to get a glimpse at how he works to preserve the past and preserve future.
Bradley is an exceptionally talented woodworker who has merged his love for woodworking with his strong belief in preservation. His company, New England Outbuildings, works tirelessly to rescue antique barns that are slated for demolition. Piece by piece, he takes apart barns that have dotted the landscape of rural New England for the past few centuries. After bringing the salvaged lumber back to his warehouse he begins the painstaking task of reassembling it by hand.
blogVoting Early
By Lesley Chilcott, Unscrewamerica.org
When I walk through any store, a little mantra repeats in my head. "Every dollar is a vote... Every dollar is a vote." Sometimes I hear "Waste equals food" as Bill McDonough says but most of the time it's just, "Every dollar is a vote." Now back in 1970 when Earth Day started I think people were thinking more along the lines of use less, rather than buy more, but let's face it, we DO need to buy things. And when we buy, we need to do so more responsibly. So after you've saved energy all day buy using natural light but you find you actually DO need a bedside table lamp, consider what you put in that lamp. In February we launched a little non-profit called Unscrew America. Basically, unscrew your regular energy-wasting light bulbs and screw in more energy-efficient ones like CFLs and LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). We did this because of radical facts like this one; Switching to LEDs could reduce U.S. energy consumption by 10%. That's a rather astounding fact. Memorize it. We also need people to know that when you use CFLs you must dispose of them properly due to their mercury content. We're peddling facts and safety. And we tell you about how to pick bulbs and make some suggestions on where to get them. And did I mention we have a dancing kangaroo on the site?
When I walk through any store, a little mantra repeats in my head. "Every dollar is a vote... Every dollar is a vote." Sometimes I hear "Waste equals food" as Bill McDonough says but most of the time it's just, "Every dollar is a vote." Now back in 1970 when Earth Day started I think people were thinking more along the lines of use less, rather than buy more, but let's face it, we DO need to buy things. And when we buy, we need to do so more responsibly. So after you've saved energy all day buy using natural light but you find you actually DO need a bedside table lamp, consider what you put in that lamp. In February we launched a little non-profit called Unscrew America. Basically, unscrew your regular energy-wasting light bulbs and screw in more energy-efficient ones like CFLs and LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). We did this because of radical facts like this one; Switching to LEDs could reduce U.S. energy consumption by 10%. That's a rather astounding fact. Memorize it. We also need people to know that when you use CFLs you must dispose of them properly due to their mercury content. We're peddling facts and safety. And we tell you about how to pick bulbs and make some suggestions on where to get them. And did I mention we have a dancing kangaroo on the site?
blogGoing Green Guide to Earth Day 2008
By Mary Beth Gonzalez, iVillage.com
So Green Week is finally here...we kick it off with Earth Day 2008 on Tuesday, April 22nd - a day when being eco-conscious is the norm and in preparation, the media is filled with eco-friendly advice, green product discounts and eco-success stories. I'm soaking it all up like a sea sponge.
And then we celebrate Green Wednesday on April 23rd - a day when you can vote green with your dollars. Let's make eco-conscious choices and vote with our purchasing power. We'll join the "buy-cott" by choosing to buy green products on Green Wednesday.
Since navigating all this greenness can be overwhelming, I thought it might be useful to provide a little "Going Green Guide" of websites where you can get super eco-smart this week. Consider this a cheat sheet for your Green Wednesday commitment on April 23rd!
So Green Week is finally here...we kick it off with Earth Day 2008 on Tuesday, April 22nd - a day when being eco-conscious is the norm and in preparation, the media is filled with eco-friendly advice, green product discounts and eco-success stories. I'm soaking it all up like a sea sponge.
And then we celebrate Green Wednesday on April 23rd - a day when you can vote green with your dollars. Let's make eco-conscious choices and vote with our purchasing power. We'll join the "buy-cott" by choosing to buy green products on Green Wednesday.
Since navigating all this greenness can be overwhelming, I thought it might be useful to provide a little "Going Green Guide" of websites where you can get super eco-smart this week. Consider this a cheat sheet for your Green Wednesday commitment on April 23rd!
blogEco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt: Day 2
Instructions:
Search in ecofabulous.com and GreenisUniversal.com
archives (links and clues will be provided) and answer the daily trivia
question with the information you find! Submit your entry and you will
be eligible to win the prize of the day if your answer is correct!
Winners will be selected at random from the list of eligible entrants.
Submissions for each daily trivia question will end when a new day's
Clue has been posted. All winners and answers will be posted at the end
of Earth Week, April 27th.
Good luck!!!
Day 2: Eco Friendly Fabrics
Welcome to Day 2 of the Eco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt! Today's theme is eco friendly fabrics! Follow the clues and answer the trivia question for a chance to win a gorgeous set of (earth friendly) towels.
Search in ecofabulous.com and GreenisUniversal.com
archives (links and clues will be provided) and answer the daily trivia
question with the information you find! Submit your entry and you will
be eligible to win the prize of the day if your answer is correct!
Winners will be selected at random from the list of eligible entrants.
Submissions for each daily trivia question will end when a new day's
Clue has been posted. All winners and answers will be posted at the end
of Earth Week, April 27th.
Good luck!!!
Day 2: Eco Friendly Fabrics
Welcome to Day 2 of the Eco Fact Finder Treasure Hunt! Today's theme is eco friendly fabrics! Follow the clues and answer the trivia question for a chance to win a gorgeous set of (earth friendly) towels.
blogGreen-Collar Jobs May Save Earth... And The Next President!
By Van Jones, founder, Green For All
The "winner" of this year's presidential contest will inherit the world's toughest job at one of the toughest times in U.S. history. Today's challenges would intimidate even our greatest leaders.
The occupation of Iraq will drag on. Carbon emissions will continue to super-heat the atmosphere leading to ever-unpredictable (and deadlier) weather. Rising energy prices could slow economic growth while inflating the cost of everything.
Fortunately, both Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama are promoting one solution that offers good medicine for the economy... for the Earth... and for U.S. foreign policy.
The "winner" of this year's presidential contest will inherit the world's toughest job at one of the toughest times in U.S. history. Today's challenges would intimidate even our greatest leaders.
The occupation of Iraq will drag on. Carbon emissions will continue to super-heat the atmosphere leading to ever-unpredictable (and deadlier) weather. Rising energy prices could slow economic growth while inflating the cost of everything.
Fortunately, both Sen. Hillary Clinton and Sen. Barack Obama are promoting one solution that offers good medicine for the economy... for the Earth... and for U.S. foreign policy.
blogCelebrate Earth Day
By Anne Chertoff, author of From "I Will" to "I Do"
Can you believe it's April? Where did the time go?
Earth Day is today, and I thought it would be important to highlight eco-friendly wedding sites and products throughout the month. It's quite common for today's bride to look for organic and earth-friendly products for her wedding. From eco-favors and details to organically grown flowers, planning a "green wedding" is not difficult to do.
I think the best places to look for eco-wedding advice and ideas are from eco-bloggers who specialize in wedding content. I've written before about Emily Anderson's useful book and blog, Eco-Chic Weddings, but I've come across another great eco-blog that I wanted to share with you.
Can you believe it's April? Where did the time go?
Earth Day is today, and I thought it would be important to highlight eco-friendly wedding sites and products throughout the month. It's quite common for today's bride to look for organic and earth-friendly products for her wedding. From eco-favors and details to organically grown flowers, planning a "green wedding" is not difficult to do.
I think the best places to look for eco-wedding advice and ideas are from eco-bloggers who specialize in wedding content. I've written before about Emily Anderson's useful book and blog, Eco-Chic Weddings, but I've come across another great eco-blog that I wanted to share with you.
blogWalking the Walk
By Patricia Andreu, WTVJ
When I pitched a "green" series to my News Director nearly two years ago, I had no idea that it would take off the way it has. My initial hope was to produce 4 or 5 stories -- AT MOST -- about eco-friendly ways to save energy and money. I wanted to get the word out to viewers that being "green" could be quite easy and even help trim the household budget. But thanks to the support of my ND -- and great timing in terms of the "green" avalanche of information and initiatives that soon followed -- Going Green has been airing each and every week on NBC 6 since October 2006.
It's been quite a ride! Personally (and I don't mean to sound like I'm bragging) but I've learned a helluva lot from these stories! But, as the "green" reporter (a title I hold with great pride), I've also had to walk the fine line between being a "believer" and a "hypocrite". While I haven't incorporated every single tip into my daily life (I have not gone out and bought all new Energy Star appliances... my current ones are fairly efficient and work just fine), my family and I are a much more eco-friendly than before.
blogRecycling Electronics with HP
By Scott Erickson, HP Environmental Initiatives Manager, PSG Consumer Products
Like a lot of other folks, I seem to be collecting more and more computer "stuff". For a while the old stuff tended to trickle down to the kids and get used, but now the old products truly are at the end of their useful life. As a family, we are
dedicated recyclers, with regular trips to the nearby recycling center and
everyday items in the curbside tub. But the electronic equipment posed a problem, because neither of these recycling facilities accepted them.
Luckily there are a number of convenient options I found that anyone can take advantage of. But before recycling an old computer, it also makes sense to see if it has any value left. Major PC companies like HP offer a variety of programs for products nearing the end of their useful life. Through HP's trade-in program you may qualify for money back on your old equipment, whether or not they are HP branded, that can be used to purchase a new HP PC. Or HP can help you donate your old gear to a worthy organization and qualify for a tax benefit.
Like a lot of other folks, I seem to be collecting more and more computer "stuff". For a while the old stuff tended to trickle down to the kids and get used, but now the old products truly are at the end of their useful life. As a family, we are
dedicated recyclers, with regular trips to the nearby recycling center and
everyday items in the curbside tub. But the electronic equipment posed a problem, because neither of these recycling facilities accepted them.
Luckily there are a number of convenient options I found that anyone can take advantage of. But before recycling an old computer, it also makes sense to see if it has any value left. Major PC companies like HP offer a variety of programs for products nearing the end of their useful life. Through HP's trade-in program you may qualify for money back on your old equipment, whether or not they are HP branded, that can be used to purchase a new HP PC. Or HP can help you donate your old gear to a worthy organization and qualify for a tax benefit.
blogOff the Grid, Part 1: Every watt counts
By Steven Leckart, DVICE.com
Welcome to my first dispatch! Earth Week is off and running here at DVICE, and just like I promised, I'm going off the grid for five days. Yep, all week long I'll be getting my power from green sources like solar panels and hand cranks -- no wall outlets allowed. From my laptop to my phone to my coffee maker, it's all renewable, all the time for me.
It's early here in San Francisco, but the sun's shining and there's not a
cloud in the sky. Comforting, since the bulk of power for my laptop
will come from the slick 56-inch, 110-watt solar panel pictured above.
Sunday, as it turned out, was not a day of rest either for myself or my
dog Gus (dude loves lounging in the sun, so I figure I might as well
put him to work rocking Solio's Hybrid 1000
-- that's that thing dangling from his collar -- which I'll be using to
juice up my cellphone in a few hours). Sometime yesterday, though, it
finally hit me: this experiment is crazy. Find out just how nutty after
the Continue jump.
Welcome to my first dispatch! Earth Week is off and running here at DVICE, and just like I promised, I'm going off the grid for five days. Yep, all week long I'll be getting my power from green sources like solar panels and hand cranks -- no wall outlets allowed. From my laptop to my phone to my coffee maker, it's all renewable, all the time for me.
It's early here in San Francisco, but the sun's shining and there's not a
cloud in the sky. Comforting, since the bulk of power for my laptop
will come from the slick 56-inch, 110-watt solar panel pictured above.
Sunday, as it turned out, was not a day of rest either for myself or my
dog Gus (dude loves lounging in the sun, so I figure I might as well
put him to work rocking Solio's Hybrid 1000
-- that's that thing dangling from his collar -- which I'll be using to
juice up my cellphone in a few hours). Sometime yesterday, though, it
finally hit me: this experiment is crazy. Find out just how nutty after
the Continue jump.
blogGo Green with HP
By Adam Smith, Environmental Marketing Manager,
HP
Earlier this year, I set my self the
challenge of reducing my personal environmental impact at home and at work. I
started with the simple things like replacing the light bulbs at home with
compact flourescent bulbs, bringing a reusable water bottle into the office
rather than using disposable plastic cups and making sure my office printer was
set to duplex mode. Then I began to look further afield and realized that I
spend about 10 hours a day using a particular electric powered device - my HP
notebook.
Earlier this year, I set my self the
challenge of reducing my personal environmental impact at home and at work. I
started with the simple things like replacing the light bulbs at home with
compact flourescent bulbs, bringing a reusable water bottle into the office
rather than using disposable plastic cups and making sure my office printer was
set to duplex mode. Then I began to look further afield and realized that I
spend about 10 hours a day using a particular electric powered device - my HP
notebook.
blogThe Other Gail Green
By Gail Simmons, Top Chef Judge
About a year ago, I made a very conscious choice to Eat Green. I have
always felt strongly about preserving our planet. My father, a chemical
engineer and avid nature lover, has spent most of his life actively
trying to clean up the mess and waste we have created. He taught me
from a young age that this planet is precious. Everyone must take
responsibly for his or her actions especially with regard to the
impact we have on the world around us. But it was only recently that I
decided to reexamine what I personally can do to tread more lightly on
the Earth.
About a year ago, I made a very conscious choice to Eat Green. I have
always felt strongly about preserving our planet. My father, a chemical
engineer and avid nature lover, has spent most of his life actively
trying to clean up the mess and waste we have created. He taught me
from a young age that this planet is precious. Everyone must take
responsibly for his or her actions especially with regard to the
impact we have on the world around us. But it was only recently that I
decided to reexamine what I personally can do to tread more lightly on
the Earth.
blogSMS Green Alerts
If you tuned into the Today Show this morning, you know all about Green Power... but it's just the beginning of their week-long series. If you can't tune in every morning, get some green power from your mobile phone and help protect Mother Earth. Sign up for Green Is Universal's Mobile Green Alerts. It's simple, efficient, and a great way to stay green while on the go! It also helps you stay connected to greenisuniversal.com.