green is universal

By Pablo Pereira, KNBC

Since we started our Going Green segment here at KNBC TV in Los Angeles - viewer response and input has been tremendous. Our goal was to talk about the little things people could do in their lives to help the environment. Telling everyone to simply and go out and buy a Hybrid vehicle is a nice idea - but for most, out of the price range. So we have focused on the little things.

Our first story on Green Weddings catered to a certain group. But even if you weren't getting married, there were small things you could take away from that story you could practice in your daily lives. Buying local produce for a wedding reception saves on fuel and cuts down on transportation costs, as using local flower growers whenever possible. Should you wrap your gifts? A lot of paper goes to waste - so we suggested if someone has registered for a gift and already knows what they are getting for any occasion - why not simply present it with a nice card?

Another story we did with was Hybrid Taxi's. Not a big part of the business just yet here in Southern California, but we found where there were alternative fuel Taxi Services - people opted for it. We also saw many hybrid limos on the red carpet at this year's Academy Awards. Local amusement parks in Southern California are packed during the summer and we found that many, including Disneyland and Universal, are designing new rides with energy conservation in mind. Our story on how local energy companies are offering cash for old refrigerators was a big hit. Probably got more email about where one can recycle and how to apply for a refund more than any other story we have done. We also followed an energy auditor with a local family and learned very simple ways to save on your energy bill. Replacing air filters often and using low energy light bulbs topped the list.

Southern California has always been a leader in thinking Green and since our series began, we have found a number of people who are transforming their homes into energy efficient models for the rest of the country to follow. From solar power to planting gardens on roofs - people are saving big bucks on their energy cost while creating beautiful, safe environments for their families. Even local colleges are getting into the act. Recently we featured a four-year university that designed new dorms with green in mind. Recycling bins are everywhere and building materials were locally produced whenever possible.

In the future, we are looking at a number of new stories that will provide people with simple ways to help save our planet. From the home, to the office, to your drive and everywhere in between, there are a number of ways to Go Green and we can't wait to show people what we have discovered!

Pablo Pereira
Reporter, NBC 4 Los Angeles
http://knbc.com/goinggreen/