Saturday, December 26, 2009

Ecocity World Summit



Video of Mr. Steve Pinetti, Senior VP of Sales & Marketing
Kimpton Hotel & Restaurant Group


A year old, but a VERY interesting find. Mr. Pinetti was a guest speaker at the Ecocity World Summit 2008. He spoke about the Kimpton traditions, current initiatives, and future strategies to promote eco-friendly boutique lodging. This year, the Ecocity World Summit 2009 was held in Istanbul, Turkey from December 13-15th. So sorry my invite was lost in the mail!

Friday, December 25, 2009

ROW for CLEAN Water!

Pictured above is Katie Spotz. She will ring in the New Year with a little boat trip across the Atlantic Ocean to raise money for a clean water campaign. Spotz will disembark from Africa sometime as soon as next week. She is very close to exceeding her fundraising goal of $40,000. Learn more about her cause at her website. You can also keep up with her during the journey by following her blog and tweets. From one rower to another, pull hard Katie!

Thursday, December 17, 2009

"The disaster is already in progress, but we have it in our power to end this injustice,"
Desmond Tutu, COP15

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Blog Action Day '09!

I LOVE APPLE DAY!



...And I think that it should be a GLOBAL holiday. FREE (Delicious:) APPLES FOR ALL!!!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

Obese Skunk Battles Bacon Addiction



Awww I feel so bad for this poor guy. Mr. Bumble, the skunk from Scotland, is twice his happy weight. His former humans (I despise the word "owner") routinely fed him unhealthy BACON sandwiches! Currently, Mr. Bumble tips the scale at a whopping 14lbs. However, he is now on a healthy vegetarian diet along with a daily exercise regimen to lose 7lbs. Good Luck Mr. Bumble!

Monday, September 28, 2009



Pictured here: The Yellowstone Grizzly Bear who is back on the endangered species list.

GREEN Apple

Apple and the Environment: Bigger picture, Better products. Smaller impact.


The Apple and the Environment website has been updated with a plethora of info for consumers to read about Apple's environmental impact. This innovative technology company accounts for its greenhouse gas emissions throughout the entire product life cycle. Moreover, Apple encourages product recycling through its retail stores, offering customer discounts. It's definitely worth a look.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Green-over YOUR kitchen!



Green-Over: an eco-friendly recipe makeover. Check out the Big Green Cookbook for a green kitchen checklist, over 200 recipes, and tips for going organic and buying food locally.

Friday, September 18, 2009

Listen Up!



"I’ve found that a person does not need protein from meat to be a successful athlete. In fact, my best year of track competition was the first year I ate a vegan diet."
-Mr. Carl Lewis, 10x Olympic Medalist
From the introduction of Very Vegetarian

Courtesy of OrganicAthlete

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Wacky Wednesday!



Courtesy of Coach B!

Daily Dose of Vegan Soapbox



Watch. Reflect. Take action!

Starbucks Launches a Cup-recycling Pilot Program


I was just thinking to myself, "I wish there was a recycling bin for paper cups," as I was leaving the campus Starbucks last night, blurry-eyed from an unsuccessful attempt to bang out a 500 word essay. The paper was completed this morning, and just as well, I wake to find this great news! Starbucks began the program last week, implementing it in 7 different stores in NYC. I think this program can be highly successful because I realize how much people love to drink Starbucks and do not always remember their reusable mugs and cups. I'm often guilty of this, especially when on the go.

Update on TerraCycle!

TerraCycle Collects Scotch Tape for Reuse, Expands Into London

They just keep growing! TerraCycle will expand its upcycling operations to the U.K. and Europe. They have developed a new project, partnering with 3M. Instead of upcycling recycled tape dispensers, TerraCyle will collect, empty, and send the dispensers back to 3M for reuse! Now that's the power of GREEN!

Friday, September 11, 2009

TerraCycle to UPCYCLE its revenue!


TerraCycle Inc. is just eight years old. It was founded by a Princeton University freshman named Tom Szaky. However, today, this company is growing FAST. According to GreenBiz.com, "Chief Executive Tom Szaky said the firm expected sales of its "up-cycled" bags, pencil cases, and garden products to hit $10 million (£6.1m) this year, before increasing to $50 million during 2010." So how'd he do it? With passion for sustainable living and a cool new word for recycling. The term "upcycle" means to reuse non-recyclable waste materials and create eco-friendly products like a "Drink Pouch Backpack" or "Cookie Wrapper Pencil Case." Watch for this growing GREEN company!

Soy-Based Toner for HP Printers

A BIG step in the right direction. The Soy-based toner is only available is some HP products, but it is on the market!

Where the Wild Things Are. Again.

Today, the US Department of Health and Human Services introduced their new campaign to fight childhood obesity. It will include characters from Maurice Sendak's classic, "Where the Wild things Are." The campaign will promote the benefits of daily activity and play like the main character in the book enjoyed. I think its interesting how the government is using a throwback like the Wild Things to get kids attention rather than some flashy, expensive technology gadget. This program can be very successful with kids, family, and educators participation involved.

Monday, September 7, 2009

Natural Beauty



The Sunflower. Up-close and awesome!

Monday, August 24, 2009

On (mental) Vaca

I've been a little inconsistent with posting because I'm currently in limbo, back in Michigan, and preparing to move back to campus. Since I'm finish with work at my summer job, before I get to campus, I'm home entertaining myself with my old pal Mr. TV. WOW! I've missed so much, but more importantly I've found a new home channel. My first favorite is the Food Network of course, but my new favorite is the HGTV Network. This show called House Hunters is amazing! What a great concept. You can watch people shop for a house, critique every little detail, and then die and anticipation waiting to find out which house they choose! I love it! lol Some of the shows feature domestic searches, but the coolest episodes are in international destinations like Buenos Aires and Nicaragua! Its a dream home (window) shopping spree!

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Vegan Ice Cream Challenge

I sampled the winner. It was just ok to me, not SWEET enough for my taste, but try them all for yourself!

Rooftop Wind Turbines in Portland



The first rooftop wind farm for the city of Portland, OR.

An electric garden!




My first thought, "WoW! How BEAUTIFUL!" These are solar SunFlowers created by Mags Harries and Lajos Héder for Catellus Development Company in Austin, Texas. These creatively designed solar collector panels are public art pieces for the whole city to enjoy, bot visually and as a renewable energy resource. Click here for the complete article and more photos!

Friday, August 14, 2009

Friday. FUNday!


Watch CBS Videos Online

Hey how'd they do that? A map of the US made from Jell-o!

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Where the desert meets the classroom


The term Greenscreen takes on a whole new and more sustainable meaning for students at Arizona State University. A wall was removed and replaced by "wire trellising and greenery." Now, the 1960s building is self-cooling with a more modern design. This is an example of GREEN planning and design at its best!

Back to School

Already?! Is it that time again?! YES! Kids can get on the GREEN foot and start the school year off right with these tips for going GREEN at school.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Nia Long for PETA!


As a fan of actress Nia Long, I was more than excited to see her in the latest PETA "Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" ad. Her animal rights activism was inspired by her children. She supports the PETA campaign and strives to be a role model for her children, fans, and the general public. Check out her interview with the PETA Files.

Green Guide Helps Businesses Prevent Greenwashing


Click Green Guide for more information.

GM wants to hear from YOU

Got an idea for the car of the future?! Want to tell GM exactly what you think about their eco-strategies? Great! GM wants to hear all this and more. Visit The Lab and leave your comments, suggestions, and ideas to help their ECOinitiative. Also, check out what projects they're developing!

A GREEN Collar Economy



URGENT: Please watch and share this moving, hope inspiring video, and BE the change you want to see! Courtesy of GREEN for ALL

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

A step in the WRONG direction!

Turns out, our global efforts are not getting result in the fight to cut total CO2 emissions. In fact, the German Insitiute for Renewable Energy has concluded that we emitted 1.94% more CO2 in 2008 than in 2007. This global pollution problem is a real detriment to our environment. We can and must do better! According to the IWR, "For emissions to be effectively cut, nations need to link the amount invested in renewable energy to their emissions, and track effectiveness on an ongoing basis." (Courtesy of Environmental Leader)

Kimpton, Boutique Hotel Chain, opens first LEED registered hotel in Philly

Last summer I worked for Kimpton, so this news is very exciting to me. At the property that I worked, I felt that management could do a whole lot more to make the property eco-friendly and less wasteful rather than waiting for corporate to enforce their GREEN company policies, but I digress. The Hotel Palomar Philadelphia is the only LEED registered hotel in the city, and it is eco-friendly as well as pet friendly. A few of the GREEN amenities are, an integrated recycling program for cups and clothes hangers, paperless guest check-in/out service, and unused and partially used bath amenities to be donated to community programs. If you noticed, the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia is only LEED registered, applying to be LEED Building certified. "Approximately 60 to 90 days after opening, Kimpton will know the Hotel Palomar Philadelphia’s final LEED status," according to Green Lodging News.

Monday, August 10, 2009

Nevada to lead the next American Revolution

I had the opportunity to attended the National Clean Energy Summit 2.0 today hosted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and US Senator Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV) with guest speakers former President Bill Clinton and Vice President Al Gore. It was a gathering of clean energy advocates, politicians, executive entrepreneurs, press, and exhibitionists. As you may or may not know, Nevada is at the center of America's plan to develop and implement renewable energy due to its abundant natural resources particularly solar and wind energy. Moreover, Senator Reid is the voice of Nevada in the Senate and has worked fearlessly for policy change and federal funding.

Held at the Cox Pavilion center on the campus of UNLV for the second year in a row, the entire day was dedicated to discussing and brainstorming on two key topics of concern, renewable energy (renewables) and energy efficiency. The morning session was a panel discussion of twenty participants including Vice President Al Gore, US Secretary of Energy Steven Chu, White House Council on Environmental Quality Advisor Van Jones, and energy executive T. Boone Pickens, just to name a few guest from various backgrounds. The guest list was completed with several CEOs, entrepreneurs, and politicians of different levels. The round table was moderated by former Senator Timothy E. Worth (D-CO). Each guest was given the opportunity to speak on one or the other theme and add to the conversation from their perspective and expertise.

Former President Bill Clinton spoke during the afternoon session, delivering his ideas on how American policy reform can lead to action and real change in our struggling economy. Clinton explained that our nation's biggest detriment to the environment is CO2 emission, and 40% of all CO2 emissions escape from our homes, offices, and skyscrapers. As Secretary Chu would say, this problem is a "low hanging fruit." CO2 emission is all around us, but because it is odorless, tasteless, "out of sight, and out of mind," we don't move with a sense of urgency to resolve this manageable problem. Simply, America's buildings must be retrofitted with the latest clean technology in order to be updated and restored to emit close to or zero carbon dioxide.

With such abundant solar and wind energy resources and a staggering state unemployment rate of 12.1%, Nevada is looking to the future and ready to develop and produce clean energy for the nation. Here lies the overall goal of today's discussion, that is, to prepare people for the environmental and economical changes that must and will take place in our country, beginning with the region that is most susceptible to the Renewable Revolution making America more energy efficient, independent of foregin oil, and getting our people back to work.

Friday, August 7, 2009

Thursday, August 6, 2009

Wake-up to 101 Vegan breakfasts!

If variety is the spice of life, than a Vegan diet is well seasoned with choices. Check out this extensive list of breakfast ideas.

Coming to a Sprint store near you: a GREEN section

The cellular company Sprint will be adding a special GREEN section in retail stores that will showcase their GREEN products and services, for example, phone cases made from recycled material. Likewise, Sprint announced today the launch of a new "eco-friendly, socially conscious, always networking phone." From the inside out, the Reclaim was designed to minimize waste and be efficiently recycled after use, even its packaging is made of recycled materials. For an added GREEN bonus, for every phone sold, Sprint will donate $2 to the Nature Conservancy's Adopt an Acre program. This phone is definitely worth a second look!

Owens Corning reports big GREEN results for FY 2008

Even if you're not familiar with the name, you encounter Owens Corning products on a daily basis. They are the world leading manufacturer of fiberglass and foam insulation for both the private and public sectors. Better yet, their mascot is The Pink Panther! This year that have proven their commitment to the environment. According to the company's third annual 2008 sustainability report, OC has reduced its energy consumption by 11 percent, water use by 3 percent, and greenhouse gas emissions by 9 percent compared to the previous year. Along with results like these, Owens Corning has managed to continue a healthy economic growth as well. Overall net sales were up in 2008 to $5,847M from $4,978M in 2007. "We have found creative ways to continue our progress in reducing the environmental footprint of our operations-thanks to the commitment of our worldwide employees," writes The Chief Sustainability Officer, Frank O'Brien-Bernini, in the 2008 sustainability report.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

"Greenwashing's More Evil Twin" LOL

This is a serious matter, but I just had to laugh oout loud at this illustrative article title by GreenBiz.com. Greenbashing, the evil twin to greenwashing, is used to undermine progressive environmental projects and GREEN efforts with such jargon about catastrophic costs or unforeseen dangers. Please be aware of these two. You've officially been warned!

Whole Foods now just a "BUNCH OF JUNK?"

The Whole Foods Company CEO, John Mackey, confessed to the WSJ Health Blog that "We sell a bunch of junk." It seems that somehow, the healthy organic food store has made an ugly transformation in to a not-so healthy candy and sweets shop. The proof is in the numbers. Their healthy, bulk foods such as “grains, seeds, nuts and beans” now only account for 1% of sales. Mackey said that this number has dropped from 15-20%. Moreover, today the average Whole Foods Market can be classified as a "food boutique," littered with specialty treats and desserts. From the moment you grab your shopping cart and enter the store to the moment you are greeted by the cashier at checkout, shoppers are overwhelmed by all of the enticing displays of cookies, sugary fruit snacks, and mounds of milk chocolate. Whole Foods even sales a brand of chocolate with BACON infused inside. Yes! I witnessed my cousin try it in the store (simply upon request) then proceed to purchase several packages in different sizes.

I have definitely notice this transformation in WF myself. Now, when I shop there, I have to make a conscious effort not avoid the sweets aisle and bakery corner and stick to my list, or as best as possible. I don't like this WF alter-ego JF, Junk Foods Market. But, it is important to note that the CEO (of all people) is well aware of the chain's character flaw and has a tentative plan of action. He stated, "Customers, we hope, are going to vote them out. You’re just seeing the most tentative efforts at this point because the details are not ready for public release. You need to be fair. I’ve got to plan the revolution." Basically, The Whole Foods Market brand is at the mercy of its shoppers. WE must demand healthy foods at the Whole Foods Market and shop else where for junk!

Tuesday, August 4, 2009

The #1 THREAT to today's youth

This story really hit close to home for me. I, like roughly 17% of American kids, was an obese child and teen, and like 40% of parents of obese children ages 6 to 11, my parents saw that I was gaining weight too quickly for my height and age, but they still did not perceive me as being "obese."

Yet, I was obese and gaining at least 10-15lbs each year. They were not alarmed by my appearance because I was active and out going. But, I was still not healthy. This article exposed a real truth that I think is overlooked by so many parents. Its not just that kids today are eating too much junk food, its that they are eating too much of everything. For example, as a kid, I loved vegetables and fruits as much as I did Skittles and Gummy Bears, and if you put 3 portions of vegetables on my plate, I would finish them all, whether I was satisfied or stuffed and still eat 3 pieces of fruit for dessert. And when it came to candy or junk food, I never grasped the concept of just eating some, and save the rest for later. I just had to finish the bag, box, or package.

I strongly believe that, like me, this is how kids deal with their feelings like loneliness, boredom, and other emotions. Moreover, food is all around them, constantly being pushed on them at home, in school, and in the media. It is easy to get and tastes good. Without the right tools and encouraging role model(s), its no wonder why they can't reason well enough to find more productive ways to express their feelings and not depend on food to cope. I think a big part of leading a GREEN lifestyle is eating in moderation. We are all born with this healthy habit, but due to the stresses of life and our environment, we unknowingly create new, unhealthy eating habits to just deal.

It's important that families work together to repair their eating habits. Learning about portion sizes and calories is the first step. ALL KIDS LOVE TO LEARN, and they deserve the chance to learn about what they put in to their bodies and how these things affect their growth. EVERY CHILD IS DIFFERENT, so weight loss should not be their only measurable goal. Number of new food they try in a week, number of jumping jacks they can do in a minute, these are examples of non-weight-related goals kids should strive for as they master the components of living a healthier lifestyle.

Monday, August 3, 2009

As luck would have it...

...the Universe is in line with me and my goals too. Check out my horoscope for today!

"Your reputation is your top concern right now, but you could afford to lighten up. Don't despair -- you need to deal with something pretty big, but you've got the resources to handle it without too much effort or worry. You do need to keep pressing forward, no matter what."

Get your horoscope for today at Shine by Yahoo!

Shhh! I'll let you in on a little secret...


...I am a new Vegan, and I am still on a diet. In fact, I want to lose 10lbs this month. And I'll let you in on another secret. Being Vegan does NOT equal easy weight loss! Nope. No way Jose! During these last few weeks of summer, I challenge myself to LOSE and be VEGAN! The plan is to eat smaller portions, write down everything that I put into my body, and up the cardio to at least 60 minutes/day. I'm also going to weight myself DAILY. I know this seems a bit obsessive, and yes, many dietians and weight loss programs do not recommend weighting daily, but I really think that facing the scale everyday is just the type of motivation I need. And of course, I'll be sure to keep you updated on my progress.

Gap Inc. Exceeds Expectations

Gap Inc. announced that it has reduced greenhouse gas emmissions (GHG) by 20% from 2003- 2008 and exceeded its five-year U.S. EPA Climate Leaders goal of 11%. The progress report is available to the public on the Gap Inc. Social Responsibilty website. As a global apparel company their GREEN efforts are very admirable. By accepting the challenging of becoming a EPA Climate Leader, Gap Inc. has proven that it is possible to do business and protect the environement. Even better, their accomplishments have gained national attention. It's great to hear about the US companies that claim to use sustainable, environmentally-friendly business practices AND have quantifiable proof of their GREEN efforts. Likewise, this is great publicity for Gap Inc. that can only help to increase sales and highlight the brands that make up this progressive company.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Friday. FUNday!


The Polar Bear is my most favorite animal. Look at 'em go!
Courtesy of Yahoo! News Photo Hightlight

GREEN iPhone apps

I'm not an Apple iPhone user, but I am a fan of their GREEN apps. The names and discriptions of some of the apps like Greenopia and Greenpeace Tissue Guide can be found here. And apparently I'm not alone. Check out this article about the shortcomings of the iPhone in the Washington Post today/

Thursday, July 30, 2009

More US colleges are making the GREEN Honor Roll

See who received top honors by maintaining our nation's greenest campuses.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Timberland cleans up their footprint in the Amazon


The leading manufacturer and retailer of leather boots and shoes announced today that they will work to reduce their ecological footprint in the rain forest and partner with their Brazilian leather suppliers in their efforts. The suppliers must be in agreement with the company by August 15th in order to maintain their working relationship with Timberland. Notably, they are the second major shoe manufacturer, behind Nike, within this year, to reevaluate their supply chain and its effect on the environment. Well I wonder why? For decades these companies did not own up to their influences on their suppliers and the communities and natural environments in which they operated. Now, there is no denying their abuse of natural resources. we will definitely have to stay informed about the company's progress in cleaning up the Amazon Biome. To do so, you can check out their eco-friendly blog or for a more different perspective see GreenBiz.com

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Be aware of GREENWASH

The term greenwashing was coined by an environmentalist from New York, Jay Westerveld. He used this term in an essay to describe the ill will "green" marketing strategies of the local hotels. These establishments would attract guest with what a appeared to be a GREEN campaign against wasting natural resources, yet it was only a ploy to increase profits. They placed green placards in each room and encouraged guests to reuse their towels but past this, no real efforts were made on the part of these hotels. They only greened aspects of the guests stay at the hotel, ones that they could easily recognize, and not the hotel's operations and business practices.

More than ever, GREEN critics and surveyors have learned how to distinguish the genuine GREEN companies and initiatives from the rest. Prime example, in today's news, Johnson & Johnson reported that their company is on track to meet their goal of reducing carbon emissions by 7 percent by 2010, using 1990 as their benchmark. They have all kinds of facts and numbers to prove that they will meet their goal, but even still, somehow, their emissions manage to grow 3.3 percent in the year 2008 compared to teh year before. Now, how do they explain that? In the company's 12 sustainability report, they have acknowledge that their goal is "more aggressive than anticipated." They are working to become more energy efficient across various elements. Though carbon emissions increased in 2008, J&J reduced all waste by 16 percent and water use by 8.7 percent. Not bad at all for a company of their size with an extensive, global product line; however, we as a society must still hold them accountable. They must deliver on their overall carbon emissions goals too. It is not enough to say, "well they did decreased their X, Y, and Z, so its not a big deal if their A increases just a little bit." No! Please do not be deceived. This is yet another form of greenwashing.

Company's like J&J may have good intentions to help save the planet, but that is still no excuse to let them make exaggerated promises to the public, advertise it with their products and services, and manipulate consumers while increasing their profits. It is important that we remain informed and up-to-date on industry leaders and their GREEN promises. Consumer awareness drives corporate social responsibility, which instills accountability and this leads to real change.

Monday, July 27, 2009

WOW. Bravo JT!


Singer, actor Justin Timberlake has set the bar pretty high in green golfing and now owns America's first golf course with a Audubon International Classic Sanctuary distinction. Located in his hometown, Memphis, TN, Mirimichi was his childhood golf course where he first learned to play the game. In 2007 Timberlake and his family bought the property and are now working towards LEED Platinum certification for the building in 2011. Mirimichi means "place of happy retreat." This is an excellent attraction for the city of Memphis. Justin Timberlake and his family have invested they're resources into a local treasure, making it GREEN and sustainable.

Sustainable (and profitable) Tourism

Hotels, Spas Enjoy Big Savings from Green Projects

Shared via AddThis

GREEN Therapy?

I took a three-day weekend and went on a vacation to visit my favorite relatives and just relax. Now, that I'm back, I feel a little lethargic, but maybe its just a case of the Mondays. I know we all can relate. Luckily, I found this article by Bryan Walsh on the Time Magazine website. He found that there is a growing group of psychologists that practice 'Eco-Therapy.' He revealed that more than half of every human on this planet lives in a cities and is cut off from nature. Before now, the human race evolved with and blended with nature for millions of years. However, today, we are all consumed with work, school, technology, and economic downturn. In this article, the Eco-therapists recommend that their patients keep a nature journal in which they record exactly how much time they spend outdoors. Some find that they spend less than 15 minutes outdoors a day! WOW. Try it for yourself. Monitor your time spent outdoors AND your mood. If it is less than 15 minutes per day and you are feeling the office blues, go outside and play!

\'Eco-Therapy\' for Environmental Depression: Go Jump Off a Pier

Thursday, July 23, 2009

Coca-Cola Enterprises' Commitment 2020

Coca-Cola Enterprises To Cut Carbon Footprint 15%

Shared via AddThis

A new record-setting GREEN building feature

PNC Financial Services Group, Inc will be the proud owners of the largest living wall in North America, pending municipal approval, to be intalled in septemebr. My first thought, "Will this be costly to maintain and water?" Not hardly! It is reported that the wall is estimated to require only a 15 mintue watering PER WEEK. Along with its weekly, man-made rain fall, the living wall is sure to have a natural irrigation system being that it will be located at their headquaters in Pittsberg. The 2,380 square-foot, soil based portrait is not just for show. It will also contribute to cooling this GREEN building. "The wall will be a fitting reminder that PNC is the world-leader in green building," commented PNC Director of Corporate Real Estate, Gary Saulson.

Above is a rendering of the living wall design.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

The Top U.S. Green Brands

Clorox Green Works, Burt's Bees, Tom's of Maine Top U.S. Green Brands

(According to the 2009 Global Green Brands study)

Can one's waste become another's hydrogen fuel?


Environmetal researchers from the AENews Network say yes! Hydrogen, as an alternative energy source, is gaining support in the industry because it is efficient and clean. When hydrogen burns, it does not produce carbon dioxide and only emits water vapors in to the atmosphere.

"It’s becoming increasingly necessary for scientists devising new technologies to limit the amount of carbon dioxide they release. This project takes us one step closer to these goals – once we have technologies that enable us to produce hydrogen sustainably, the infrastructure to support its use will grow.”-Dr. Valerie Dupont

GREEN in⋅fra⋅struc⋅ture on the rise

Green Building Projects Thrive Despite Recession

Shared via AddThis

Mmmh this sounds good!


A simple, veggie packed GREEN Summer Soup recipe from the August issue of Self magazine.

Well, it IS a GREEN truck


I don't know if I'm just feeling the spirit of the Tour de France or the fact that I'm a proud new owner, but I am obsessed with everything Trek these days. Check out the 1 World 2 Wheels Go By Bike Challenge Blog. Its a good read, posted by everyday riders and supporters of this GREEN initiative.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

B&N and the new era of digital reading

The world's largest chain of bookstores will be launching a mega e-bookstore at BN.com. Not only will it be competing with Amazon.com by selling books via the Web at competitive prices, but it will also be "contributing to the growth of the whole category of digital reading,” offering more than 700,000 books that can be read on your favorite mobile devices including the iPhone and various BlackBerry models. B&N's future in the e-bookstore industry looks promising in a number of ways. More importantly this is yet another contribution to the GREEN movement. With technology and being knowledge about our environment's limited resources businesses are thinking GREEN and are more inclined today to implement sustainable business practices to improve profits, change with consumer demand, or otherwise.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Good News!

According to the ScienceDaily, we decreased our overall energy consumption in 2008. Likewise, "Americans used more solar, nuclear, biomass and wind energy in 2008 than they did in 2007, according to the most recent energy flow charts."--ScienceDaily (2009-07-20)

Friday, July 17, 2009

Support it any way YOU can


I discovered this magazine while paying for my groceries at the Whole Foods Market yesterday. I was drawn to it by the brightly colored cover and simple yet perfect title. Admittedly, I did not buy it. Yes, I would have loved to support this developing brand, but the price of the magazine was not in my budget. Moreover, in this struggling economy, I have found that it is easier to support the GREEN movement by planning ahead. For example, this magazine is seasonal. I learned that from their simple yet perfect website. It is filled with environmental facts and tips on how to achieve a greener lifestyle. Moral of this story; Whether you purchase the magazine or register with their website, you will be showing your support for this company and their GREEN cause.

Also, checkout this article on going GREEN and finding personal balance.

Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability News: ENN -- Know Your Environment

Looking for a GREEN job? Well check this list out! The Top Ten GREEN Jobs of 2008 with Salaries over 100K:
Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability News: ENN -- Know Your Environment

Posted using ShareThis

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Going Green with Social Media


Is the GO GREEN movement sustainable or fashionable? Will it soon be forgotten like last season's markups? This article suggests that yes, "going green," is currently a hot topic, but it is not the kind of hot topic that will soon become an after thought. Increasingly, we are realizing that this is not a matter that can be resolved through discussion or hope. We must take action NOW. Moreover, we are relying on popular social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, in order to better understand the GREEN movement and the many ways in which we can help SAVE OUR PLANET.

The Bay vs. The Bag



Reason #87 why we ALL need to do our part. Limit the use of disposable shopping bags. REMEMBER to REUSE!

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

If you build it...

Kids will love it! This is just another reason why I am proud to call Mrs. Michelle Obama my First Lady. With the help of her advisors, personal Chef, and the DC community, First Lady Obama is making great strides in her campaign to improve American children's diet and health. Insituting the first White House Garden was a brilliant idea to effectively teach kids about all the benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables.

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Caloric intake and weight loss

Very help tool that is easily accessible through The Post website. Membership not necessary. This calculator really puts things into perspective. Sometimes, I feel discouraged by weight loss and maintenance because I am always hungry because of my level of activity and the fact that I just love to eat. Being able to accurately quantify the calories I eat and use is helpful and encouraging. Its a great way to monitor your intake vs output in order to achieve your weight/fitness/health goals, made as convenient as possible.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Back to Basics


Watch CBS Videos Online

One way to conserve energy is to not use electric dryers but instead dry your clothes using natural resources, wind and the Sun. In order to use wind, clothes must be aired outdoors. What's the problem? Some neighbors in this particular community feel that a simple clothes line, an effort to slow climate change, is a detriment to their property value. They just don't want to be forced to look at their neighbors socks and shirts. This is such a lame excuse. Who complained about seeing their neighbors' underwear before the modern washer and dryer were installed? No one! Some opponents might argue that we have progressed with the times and technology. We have the means to dry our clothes in doors and be civilized. However, due to our inventions and consumption patterns, we are exhausting our limited resources by the second. If a clothes line is too much for us to bear, then how will we ever make any real changes towards limiting our dependency on energy? Impossible. Results can't come without change.

Riding for a Change




This is great initiative to combat global climate change, sponsored by Brita, the water filter company. Last year, over 100 riders biked from NYC to DC to seek climate change legislation and a more advocacy for renewable energy. This year the ride will be held from September 26th-30th.

...on a POSITIVE note!

I've been blogging for over a year now. During this past year, I have moved to the west coast, completed my third year of undergraduate studies, was accepted to graduate school, and visited four European countries. So, I think it is about time that I recognize and show some gratitude for all that I have been blessed with this year. Right? RIGHT! That said, its time to take this blog into a new direction, a more focused, SUSTAINABLE direction.

But first, I'll take a moment to review my exciting year of travel:


Palma de Mallorca, Spain


Madrid, Spain


Barcelona, Spain


Florence, Italy


Copenhagen, Denmark


Malmö, Sweden


Stockholm, Sweden
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