tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23664445296142394012024-03-07T19:01:07.786-05:00Green Tips & ProductsOver the years we have found many ways to live more economically, and ecologically. Here we will share with you what we have learned, and share some of the products we use that make it easier to live more sustainably.KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-51312308812545229742008-02-23T07:11:00.002-05:002008-02-23T07:27:00.355-05:00Eco Friendly Showers<a href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/showerhead-742509.jpg"><img style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/showerhead-742506.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><p>We recently obtained a new shower head. Now I know it's hard to get excited about a shower head, but when you find a good one, a good shower is the only way to start the day. This particular unit saves on water (save more by showering with a friend), yet still provides a wonderful water soaking experience. Good flow, good pressure, and very invigorating. It has 5 water settings, and is direction adjustable. </p><p> </p><p> </p><br /><ul><br /><li>5 Different Spray Patterns </li><br /><li>4" Spray Head with Extra Wide Coverage </li><br /><li>Anti-Clog Nozzles </li><br /><li>Solid Brass Fittings </li></ul><br /><p>Read more about the Monarch Maximum Flow Eco-Friendly Showerhead at <a href="http://www.greenandmore.com/eco-friendly-standard-spray-showerheads.html?itemId=844">http://www.greenandmore.com/eco-friendly-standard-spray-showerheads.html?itemId=844</a></p><br /><p></p><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-63642442506986752612008-01-28T09:06:00.000-05:002008-01-28T09:13:17.608-05:00What is Puffy Stuff?<table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="747"><tbody><tr> <td valign="top" width="100%"><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><table border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" width="100%"> <tbody> <tr> <td height="771"><table align="center" border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="5" height="731" width="579"> <tbody> <tr> <td valign="top" width="254"><div style="text-align: center;"> </div><p style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/PeanutImage-785037.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/PeanutImage-785033.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a></p><p><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">PUFFY STUFF is an all-natural packaging material. Unlike other plant based loosefill, PUFFY STUFF is completely biodegradable by ISO definition (100% consumed by bacteria.)</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >BENEFITS COMPARED TO CORN STARCH AND CONVENTIONAL LOOSEFILL:<br /></span></strong><span style="font-size:85%;">100% Biodegradable<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Zero petrochemicals<br />Unaffected by oil prices<br />Competitive cost<br />Easy disposal<br />Reusable</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >HOW DOES IT BR</span></strong><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >EAK DOWN?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >Upon direct contact with water, the loosefill degrades to inert proteins which are quickly consumed by soil bacteria.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >IS IT ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >Absolutely...as safe as any grain. </span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >IS IT HARMFUL TO WILDLIFE OR PETS?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >No. Although not particularly tasty, PUFFY STUFF is even edible and digests easily. Try it!</span></p><p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >DOES IT ATTRACT PESTS?</span></strong></p> <p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >No. Processing removes all food value from the grain and, in turn, the attraction of mice and other pests.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >DOES IT HAVE AN ODOR?</span></strong></p> <p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >PUFFY STUFF has a faint smell similar to popcorn. This, however will not transfer to your shipment. PUFFY STUFF actually absorbs odors!</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >IS IT STATIC FREE?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >Yes. By retaining a small amount of moisture, it conducts the static charge away resulting in no cling or damage to electrical and other sensitive devices.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >CAN IT BE REUSED?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >Absolutely.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >WHERE IS IT DISPOSED?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >If not reused, PUFFY STUFF can be put in a landfill or even hosed down in your garden as fertilizer.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >WILL IT SHRINK AWAY LIKE CORN STARCH FOAM LOOSEFILL?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >No. PUFFY STUFF is hydrophobic and is not subject to shrinking in humid conditions.</span></p> <p><strong><span style="color: rgb(83, 196, 0);font-size:85%;" >HOW DURABLE IS PUFFY STUFF?<br /></span></strong><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >The product has a high density for rugged durability. It will not shrink to allow product migration and damage during shipping.</span></p><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><a href="http://www.puffystufftn.com/about.html">http://www.puffystufftn.com/about.html</a></span> <p><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/PeanutImage-785037.jpg"><br /></a></p></td> <td valign="top" width="289"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table> </td></tr></tbody></table><!-- #EndEditable --></td> <td valign="top" width="177"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-47758270321355115592007-12-06T09:58:00.000-05:002007-12-06T10:00:18.269-05:00ClickGreener Makes All Your Holiday Shopping GreenerClickGreener Makes All Your Holiday Shopping Greener - For Free<br /><br />TORONTO, ON., December 3, 2007 – ClickGreener Inc., a groundbreaking new company, has launched <a href="http://www.ClickGreener.com">ClickGreener.com</a> just in time for the holiday season. <br /><br />ClickGreener.com is the world’s first online shopping mall that empowers people to make their ordinary purchases greener – and help raise tens of thousands of dollars for the environment – all at no extra cost to the consumer.<br /><br />“Each year, online shopping malls earn millions of dollars in referral fees,” said Owen Ward, President of ClickGreener. “We’ve decided to harness this power and use it to help the environment, by donating just over half of our referral fees to environmental non-profits.”<br /><br />Visitors to ClickGreener.com will find many of North America’s leading online retailers of electronics, books, DVDs, clothing and more. By clicking on their retailer of choice, visitors will be connected to that retailer’s online store, where they can complete their purchase as usual. For every purchase made this way, ClickGreener donates 51% of the referral fee from that purchase to leading non-profit environmental organizations, including Carbonfund.org, WWF-Canada, the Canadian Wildlife Federation and Tree Canada. All of this is done at no additional cost to the shopper.<br /><br />“People are looking for ways to contribute in a positive way to the environment,” continued Mr. Ward. “For every purchase made through ClickGreener, you will make a contribution to organizations working hard to protect and preserve our environment.”<br />“If only 1% of online purchases in North America were made through ClickGreener, approximately $10,000,000 will be raised every year. With the value of online shopping expected to double by 2011, the possibilities are truly inspiring.”<br /><br />In addition, ClickGreener gives visitors access to promotional offers from many of its retailers, including deals that are not available to the general public. ClickGreener also identifies green products from its participating retailers to help people maximize their positive impact on the environment.<br /><br />“Instead of dreaming of a white Christmas this year, we are giving people an easy way to make it a greener holiday season,” Mr. Ward adds. “Moreover, with access to many great deals, visitors to ClickGreener will also save a bit of that green for themselves!”<br /><br />About ClickGreener Inc.<br /><br />ClickGreener Inc. was created to harness the power of business to help make the world a healthier and greener place. Partnered with some of the most prestigious non-profit environmental organizations, including Carbonfund.org, WWF-Canada, the Canadian Wildlife Federation and Tree Canada, ClickGreener provides people with a simple way to make their ordinary shopping greener at no additional cost.<br /><br />CONTACT<br />For additional information or to arrange interviews:<br />Owen Ward, President<br />Tel: 416.855.6373 Email: <a href="mailto:owen@clickgreener.com">owen@clickgreener.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-37933836538343560602007-10-17T14:31:00.000-05:002007-10-17T14:33:35.726-05:00WHERE WE STAND: A Surprising Look at the Real State of Our PlanetWH<a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0814409105/webconx?dev-t=D3E49ECS9E0KO%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2">ERE WE STAND: A Surprising Look at the Real State of Our Planet</a> (AMACOM Books; October 9, 2007) by Seymour Garte, Ph.D.<br /><br />In WHERE WE STAND, Garte makes the case that the environment is in better shape than we have been led believe. He presents evidence that human and environmental welfare have been improving steadily for the past two decades. When crises arise, our urgent efforts to save the planet work. Scientific research, social activism and strong regulatory action have produced changes in the way businesses and people operate and these changes have been largely successful in solving most of the environmental and public health problems that we have faced. Garte combats environmental apathy with illustrations of the environmental movement’s achievements and their goals for the future. Hopeful, balanced, and convincing, WHERE WE STAND will change the way readers view the planet and the future.<br /><br />Publisher’s Weekly Review of WHERE WE STAND: <br /><br /><blockquote>Garte, a professor of public health, presents a well-researched, clearly written summary of the health of our planet, with histories of lead paint, ozone and various chemicals as well as analyses of human health and planetary health; the prognosis is surprisingly optimistic, and prescriptions are encouraging. While the environmental problems hyped daily on the news are real and ongoing, things have improved—air and water are cleaner, more food is available, life spans are up and infant mortality is down, diseases are better understood and treated—and will continue to improve if efforts continue. Garte points out the fallacies in standard right- and left-wing approaches—the planet is not in imminent danger of imploding, he says, but neither will it be saved by the free market—and shows how most improvements over the past 40 years have been the result of government intervention. Garte’s reasoned discussion and compelling, honest tone make this a valuable tool for increasing science literacy with regards to the important environmental issues of the day; Garte’s recommendations, to “continue on the paths we have been traveling and finally acknowledge the great progress that we have already made” should put new wind in discouraged environmentalists’ sails, while plentiful references, data and illustrations will give skeptics material to think over. (Sept.)</blockquote><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-12029085315281138942007-10-17T14:20:00.000-05:002007-10-17T14:27:22.128-05:00“OIL IS A THREAT TO NATIONAL SECURITY”It doesn't matter whether you are Democrat or Republican, it's hard to disagree with this book. We read it and recommend it! - Steve Spence, Director, Green-Trust.org<br /><br />NEW BOOK ON AMERICA’S OIL DEPENDENCE DECLARES<br /><br />“OIL IS A THREAT TO NATIONAL SECURITY”<br /><br />October 17, 2007 - As oil prices reach record highs, it’s not just in the consumer pocketbook where war is being waged.<br /><br />In, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0071489061/webconx?dev-t=D3E49ECS9E0KO%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2">Freedom from Oil: How the Next President Can End the United States’ Oil Addiction</a> (McGraw-Hill, October, 2007), author and Brookings Institution scholar David Sandalow writes that our current reliance on oil poses economic, environmental, and national security threats to the country:<br /><br />1. Oil dependence strengthens Al Queda and other Islamic terrorists;<br /><br />2. Oil dependence strengthens oil-exporting nations that oppose US interests;<br /><br />3. Oil dependence threatens our men and women in uniform;<br /><br />4. Oil dependence undermines democracy and good governance around the world;<br /><br />5. Oil dependence is central to environmental degradation and contributes significantly to global warming;<br /><br />6. Oil supplies are vulnerable to natural disasters, war, and terrorist attacks.<br /><br />Writes Sandalow, America must take steps to counter the deeply entrenched use of oil in our society using a powerful combination of already-present technologies and far-reaching agendas, among them:<br /><br /> <br /><br />· Build millions of plug-in hybrid cars that have traditional engines and connect to the electric grid;<br /><br />· Make competitively-priced biofuels available to every driver;<br /><br />· Transform fuel efficiency standards to make sure the US fleet helps lead the world; and<br /><br />· Transform federal transportation policy to level the playing field for mass transit and promote telecommuting.<br /><br />Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN) calls Freedom from Oil “Required reading for all concerned citizens and elected officials.”<br /><br />Nobel Prize winner Al Gore says of the author, “When David Sandalow writes about energy and the environment, we should all pay close attention.”<br /><br />Sandalow, a scholar at The Brookings Institution, worked for the Clinton/Gore White House, and spent much of 2005 traveling with Gore and working with him on the lecture that is now part of An Inconvenient Truth. <br /><br />The book has a foreword from Senator Richard Lugar, as well as endorsements from General Wesley Clark, James Woolsey, Vice President of Booz Allen Hamilton and former head of the CIA, and Frances Beinecke, President of the Natural Resources Defense Council.<br /><br />Sandalow is based in Washington, DC and is available for interviews. <br /><br />Freedom from Oil<br /><br />Author: David Sandalow<br /><br />October, 2007<br /><br />HC, $26.95<br /><br />For review copies, interviews, and more information, contact:<br /><br />Ann Pryor, Senior Publicity Manager<br /><br />McGraw-Hill Companies<br /><br />2 Penn Plaza, 12th Floor<br /><br />New York, New York 10121<br /><br />212.904.4078 tel<br /><br />212.904.4091 fax<br /><br /><a href="Ann_pryor@mcgraw-hill.com">Ann_pryor@mcgraw-hill.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-31967169774023523962007-07-04T16:58:00.000-05:002007-07-04T17:01:05.081-05:00Worm Poop Fertilizer in Recycled Bottles<span style="font-weight:bold;">GREEN TRUST RECOMMENDED & APPROVED!</span><br /><br />At TerraCycle we manufacture affordable, potent, organic products that are not only made from waste, but are also packaged entirely in waste! TerraCycle Plant Food™ is made by feeding premium organic waste to millions of worms. The worm poop is then liquified into a powerful organic plant food and bottled directly in used soda bottles.<br /><br />There are millions of soda bottles every day which end up in garbage cans and landfills across America. As an eco-friendly, innovator, TerraCycle packages its organic liquefied worm poop in bottles collected from schools and recycling centers from every corner of the country. It's no wonder that Red Herring Magazine named TerraCycle as one of the Top 100 Most Innovative Companies in 2004 and Inc. Magazine featured TerraCycle on its July, 2006 cover as "The Coolest Little Start-up in America"!<br /><br />TerraCycle's Bottle Brigade program allows almost any organization to save 20 oz. plastic soda bottles from getting thrown away. Better yet, TerraCycle will donate $.05 to the charity of your choice. If you don't have a charity currently in mind, you also have the option to select from a list of other charities or save 10 square feet of the rain forest with every bottle! There are no signup fees whatsoever. <br /><a href="http://www.terracycle.net/bb/"><br />http://www.terracycle.net/bb/</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-63657229602275059662007-04-02T14:49:00.000-05:002007-04-02T14:55:41.391-05:00Organic Goji Berries<a href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/goji-797458.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/goji-797445.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br />Today's mail included a new snack we have never tried. Organic Goji Berries, from <a href="http://www.sunfood.com/cgi-bin/order/index.cgi?id=145535967142&d=single&item_id=0572&c=Raw/Organic_Food&sc=Dried_Fruit&tc=">Sunfood Nutrition</a>, is very nutritionally rich, with a interesting flavor that reminds us of dried cranberries and raisins.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-75642212364406716002007-02-16T16:47:00.000-05:002007-02-16T16:54:32.598-05:00Hand Cranked LED Flashlight & Radio<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/et500-705464.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/et500-704231.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>We stopped at our local Kinney Drugs pharmacy today to pickup windshield washer fluid, and saw a much needed gadget on the shelf. It was a crank to charge <a href="http://www.green-trust.org/amazon/B000KIR56O/ILLUMINATOR_WIND_UP_FLASHLIGHT_RADIO.html">AM/FM Radio and LED Flashlight</a>. Not a clockwork mechanism, so no spring to break, no bulbs to burnout, no batteries to replace, just turn the handle. On sale for $15, it was easy to justify.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-87441193294891782922007-02-15T05:29:00.000-05:002007-02-15T07:36:34.662-05:00Organic, rain-forest grown, Yerba MateWe recently received a package of Yerba Mate in the mail. We are big tea drinkers, so this sounded like a very good ecological replacement, that is also good for you.<br /><br /> <br /><br />Yerba mate has been shared daily among friends as a healthy and energizing drink, providing 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids, and abundant antioxidants. Revered for centuries as the "drink of the gods", yerba mate triumphs as nature's most balanced stimulant.<br /><br />In South America, yerba mate has been revered for centuries as the “drink of the gods” and is drunk daily for optimum health, sustained energy and mental clarity. Of the six commonly used stimulants in the world: yerba mate, coffee, tea, kola nut, cocoa, and guarana, yerba mate triumphs as natures most balanced stimulant, delivering both energy and nutrition. The leaves of the rainforest mate tree naturally contain 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids, abundant antioxidants. In fact, The Pasteur Institute and the Paris Scientific society in 1964 concluded "it is difficult to find a plant in any area of the world equal to mate in nutritional value" and that yerba mate contains "practically all of the vitamins necessary to sustain life." <br /><br />About <a href="http://www.guayaki.com/">Guayakí</a><br />Our name Guayaki (Gwy-uh-KEE) honors the Aché Guayakí people. The Ache live in the sub-tropical rainforests of Paraguay, Argentina and Brazil, home of the yerba mate tree. Guayakí Yerba Mate is grown and hand-picked below the shade of its native rainforest canopy, then traditionally wood-aged to complement its natural earthy flavor.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-72626831114196021622007-01-28T20:55:00.000-05:002007-01-28T21:02:10.477-05:00Teach a Man to Fish ....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/GCL_goat-741615.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/GCL_goat-739286.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>You have heard the old adage, "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish and he will eat for a lifetime." <br /><br />Well, World Vision ofter fishing kits, goats, and other bootstrap items to needy folks all over the world, and we can sponsor such a gift through their website at <a href="http://www.worldvisiongifts.org">http://www.worldvisiongifts.org</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-60371291930807847302007-01-18T18:08:00.000-05:002007-01-18T18:19:41.135-05:00The Switch<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/juice_index-733975.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/juice_index-721264.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a>Want a carbonated juice that the kids will think is soda, but has nothing in it but 100% juice and carbonation? At just under a buck for 12 oz., soda is cheaper, but the sugar, caffeine, and color dyes can send the kids off the walls. So switch to the <a href="http://www.switchbev.com/">Switch</a>, it tastes good, and it's good for you. My wife's favorite is the Citrus Blend, mine is the Peach and Apricot blend.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-32845135135275803022007-01-13T12:03:00.000-05:002007-01-15T14:50:22.162-05:00Cornstarch Packing Peanuts<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/cornstarch-741162.gif"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/cornstarch-739632.gif" border="0" alt="" /></a>A Public Radio Commentary by Bill Hammack:<br /><br />My wife and I got a package in the mail that fascinated me. I don't even recall its contents, because I was taken with the the green packing peanuts used to protect whatever it was from damage. As I scooped up the pellets to toss them in the trash, my wife said, with a very knowing voice, "Just toss them on the compost pile." What! Plastic in the compost? No. She showed me a slip of paper that explained: There was no "plastic or polluting gases" used to make these peanuts; they were made of cornstarch. <br /><br />Toss them on your compost pile or spread them on your lawn and with a bit of water they'll dissolve in minutes. These cornstarch packing peanuts are part of a movement called "green engineering." <br /><br />It's a design philosophy where the environment is explicitly considered from the beginning: A goal is to find processes and products which are feasible and economical while minimizing pollution at the very beginning. These cornstarch packing peanuts are the work of food engineer Bill Stoll. <br /><br />Read more at <a href="http://www.engineerguy.com/comm/3294.htm">http://www.engineerguy.com/comm/3294.htm</a> and at <a href="http://itotd.com/articles/540/biodegradable-plastic/">http://itotd.com/articles/540/biodegradable-plastic/</a><br /><br />Available online at $18 to $25 for 12 cu. ft. at a variety of sources including <a href="http://www.uline.com/ProductDetail.asp?model=S-1564">Uline</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-59025180162613267642007-01-13T11:07:00.000-05:002007-01-13T11:15:18.399-05:00Rver's Guide to Solar Battery Charging<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/kirkby-733407-766999.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/kirkby-733407-765864.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>This excellent reference is written for the folks who believe camping doesn't mean hooking up to water, cable, and electric at a mobile version of a trailer park. Off-grid camping doesn't have to mean spoiled food and no lights, or noisy smelly generators. It's also a good start for folks who want to learn more about living off-grid in general in RV's without wheels (camp or primary home). You will learn about solar panels, batteries, chargers and inverters. You'll learn how to hookup and maintain your system. We highly recommend this resource. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/093794808X/webconx?dev-t=D3E49ECS9E0KO%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2">Rver's Guide to Solar Battery Charging</a><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-89107907952530117132007-01-12T17:40:00.000-05:002007-01-12T17:46:57.774-05:00Organic Cleaning Products<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/our-pictures-099-768317.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/our-pictures-099-765016.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a>Hypoallergenic and biodegradable, these are the cleaning products we use at Green Trust. For everything from washing floors to washing clothes, even washing our bodies, <a href="http://www.vermontsoap.com/">Vermont Soap Organics</a> keeps us clean and smelling nice!<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-60512678595532983772007-01-02T19:51:00.000-05:002007-01-02T19:53:59.013-05:00Adjusting Water Pressure to Reduce Energy WasteFrom <a href="http://www.conergy.us/Desktopdefault.aspx/tabid-332/449_read-3918/">Conergy</a>:<br /><br />Water well pumping can be the largest load on a remote home power system. There are several ways to minimize its energy consumption. Here is another technique that applies to any pressurizing system, especially if it uses an AC pump. <br /><br />If you look at the performance curve of any centrifugal-type pump (including all AC submersibles and jet pumps) you will see that as the pressure increases past a certain point, the flow drops drastically. Here is an easy way to detect this situation at the job site. Release some water, just until the pump switches on. Watch the system's pressure gauge and observe its rate of rise (this indicates flow rate). Does it rise to a certain point and then slow way down? If so, then that is the pressure at which the pump "slips" and loses efficiency. <br /><br />We had a customer in Colorado whose cut-out pressure had been set to the typical 50 PSI (pounds per square inch). As the pressure got past 40, the flow rate slowed way down. There seemed to be more than enough pressure at the faucets, so we reduced the cut-out to 36 PSI. In doing so, we cut the energy use of the pump nearly in HALF. The owner couldn't detect a change in the water delivery but, as it was gardening season, she saw an immediate increase in the amount of energy available from her PV power system! <br /><br />Why do most Americans want more than 35 PSI at their home? It's because of undersized plumbing! Most houses in the U.S.A. are plumbed to the legal minimum requirements of the plumbing codes (1/2" and 3/4" pipe). At the end of a long pipe run, the dynamic pressure may be diminished by 30%. Where a house has not yet been plumbed, we recommend using one size larger than minimum, for all cold water lines.<br /><br />Similarly, when using garden hose, 3/4" hose will cause far less pressure drop than 1/2" or 5/8" hose. When these measures are taken, a pressure setting of 25-35 PSI will please anybody. Where a house is already plumbed, observe water delivery at the faucets. If water flow is satisfying without opening faucets all of the way, then a reduction in pressure may be acceptable. <br /><br /><strong>How to reduce water pressure</strong> <br /><br />Pressure adjustments are made at the pressure switch. On a standard switch there are two adjustment nuts, with a spring under each one. Turning counterclockwise will lower the settings. You will see the result by watching the pressure gauge as the pump cycles on and off. First, loosen the nut on the longer screw. This will reduce both cut-in and cut-out pressure. Set it for the CUT-IN that you desire. Second, adjust the nut on the shorter screw. It adjusts the CUT-OUT only. Cut-out pressure should be around 2/3 of the cut-in pressure. <br /><br />Once the pressure is set and everyone is satisfied, reset the precharge air in the pressure tank. This will maximize its storage and minimize on/off cycling. To reset the precharge, first make note of the cut-in pressure. Now shut off the power to the pump. Release water until the pressure gauge drops to zero. Measure the pressure of the tank's air bladder using a tire pressure gauge at the fitting on top of the tank. Set the air pressure to 2 or 3 PSI less than the cut-in pressure. Restart the pump. Finally, write down the running time per cycle. Write it on the wall, so the performance can be checked later to detect pump wear or other problems.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-40127428412368479932006-12-28T08:05:00.000-05:002006-12-28T08:11:54.506-05:00The lighter side of green<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/ed-763352.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/ed-761188.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000893/">Ed Begley Jr</a>, the star of countless quirky movies and the classic TV hit “St. Elsewhere,” stars in “Living with Ed,” which premieres New Year’s Day on HGTV, a show about how his wife, an aspiring Hollywood star, tries to handle his ultra-green lifestyle. The guy’s such a true believer, he’ll ride on a bike just to power his toaster.<br /><br />The premiere is Jan 1, 1pm (EST and PST) – perfect for starting the new year off with a laugh. Then you can catch it Sunday nights at 10.<br /><br />You will enjoy Ed’s 10 Tips for Going Green along with other ideas for green living at <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/green">http://www.hgtv.com/green</a><br /><br /><blockquote>TV and movie actor Ed Begley, perhaps the greenest man in Tinsel Town, rides his electric car to the Academy Awards and powers his home with the sun and his stationary bike. But Living with Ed and his environmentalist passion isn't always a walk in the park for wife, Rachelle. This first-of-its-kind reality green show chronicles life with an earth-friendly fanatic with humor and heart. Check out this fresh unscripted docu-soap about the lifestyle of a diehard activist who puts his money and his time where his mouth is 24/7. Definitely not recycled TV.</blockquote><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-17468140691469244152006-12-24T19:47:00.000-05:002006-12-24T20:01:55.084-05:00Comparing Battery Chargers<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/Christmas-06-759516.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/Christmas-06-756156.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>I have been using a Radio Shack Fast Charger to charge my NiMH AA batteries. Today I received a Energizer Fast Charger (CH15MN), reporting a 15 minute charge time. The Radio Shack unit takes 4 hours and gets the charger and the batteries very hot. The Energizer unit runs cool, has an integral fan, and showed the batteries charged within the 15 minute time frame. It also has a 11-16 vdc (5a) input on the side, so I can charge it in the car, with solar, or from my house batteries, without using ac. My digital camera confirms the battery status. With the 1GB SD card, I'm ready to take 1096 pictures tomorrow with the HP PhotoSmart 320 ;-)<br /><br />The charger and four 2500 mah AA batteries (also charges AAA) was $19.95 at our local P&C grocery store.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-86529803762855667762006-12-15T12:29:00.000-05:002006-12-15T12:30:35.103-05:00Green Gadgets for the HolidaysGreen Gadgets for the Holidays<br />December 2006<br />Read this issue of <a href="http://www.ucsusa.org/publications/greentips/">Greentips online</a><br /><br />Electronic gadgets are popular holiday gifts, but as their popularity and versatility continue to grow, so does their impact on the environment. <br /><br />Devices that plug into wall outlets are responsible for a small but growing portion of a household's total energy consumption (about five to seven percent). This energy is generated primarily by fossil fuel-fired power plants, which are America's single greatest source of heat-trapping carbon dioxide and the air pollutants mercury and sulfur dioxide. <br /><br />Battery-powered devices pose problems as well. More than three billion alkaline batteries are thrown away in the United States each year instead of being recycled; the toxic metals they contain (such as lead, mercury, and cadmium) can leak into groundwater supplies and harm local residents or wildlife.With a few simple strategies, you can give your gadget-loving friends and family members a gift with a smaller environmental footprint:<br /><br />Look for the Energy Star label. These electronics use significantly less energy than conventional models. Energy Star-rated power adapters and battery chargers are also available.<br /><br /><br />(Re)charge it. Look for models that come with a rechargeable battery. If the gadget on your shopping list comes only with conventional alkaline batteries, replace them with rechargeable batteries and include a battery charger with the gift. (Note: both conventional and rechargeable batteries contain toxic metals and should not be thrown away. See the related links for battery recycling locations.)<br /><br /><br />Go solar. Consumers can now power electronic devices such as cell phones, music players, and even laptops with solar-powered battery chargers. Some are small and easily portable (including backpacks covered with flexible solar panels), making them suitable for travel.<br /> <br /><br />Shake it up. A variety of gadgets (including radios, cell phone chargers, and flashlights) can be powered mechanically, either by turning a crank or shaking them. For example, winding a cell phone for two minutes can provide six minutes of talk time (or several hours of standby power), while a 30-second shake can power a flashlight for 5 to 10 minutes. These products are perfect for hikers or campers who might want to bring a bit of civilization with them into the wilderness. <br />If you plan to give someone a new gadget to replace an older model, consider recycling the old gadget as part of the gift. Many companies (see the related links) refurbish older electronic devices, salvage the usable parts, or recycle the toxic components.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-43838655818998154612006-12-14T07:44:00.000-05:002006-12-14T07:51:15.693-05:00More Lighting Alternatives<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/shakelight-766364.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/shakelight-765178.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>You have probably seen them on TV, or even in the stores. The flashlight that doesn't require batteries, just an occasional shake to recharge. Very frugal (no buying batteries), very enviro-friendly (no waste products), and you get a bit of exercise in the end. Usually under $25, these make gifts, and are handy to keep in the kitchen, basement, garage or car. You can always depend on light when and where you need it. We found ours on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B00068RVYE/webconx?dev-t=D3E49ECS9E0KO%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2">Amazon</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-20828328040975900682006-12-09T19:16:00.000-05:002006-12-09T19:20:04.912-05:00What is Harmful in Your Home?You can not assume the conventional household products you buy at the local department store is a healthy and environmentally responsible product because of its availability. Product label information addresses acute (immediate) effects only and no warnings or discussion of long term health impacts of the products, such as cancer, is required. These common household products are also not required to disclose "inert" ingredients which can very hazardous and toxic. <br /><br />When considering the purchase of household products, select products that have less toxic, renewable and natural ingredients and are packaged responsibly. The purchase of these products supports companies that help minimize the impact of using these products on your health and the environment. <br /><br />Household products include cleaners, fresheners, laundry products, drain cleaners, dishwashing detergents, carpet shampoos, polishes and pesticides. Exposure to toxic household hazardous chemicals from ingestion, inhalation or skin contact can produce acute (immediate) or chronic (long term) health effects such as: <br /><br /> - Headaches <br /><br /> - Fatigue <br /><br /> - Allergic Reactions <br /><br /> - Chemical Sensitivity <br /><br /> - Cardiac Damage <br /><br /> - Nervous System Damage <br /><br /> - Burning Eyes <br /><br /> - Skin Rashes <br /><br /> - Runny Nose <br /><br /> - Cancer <br /><br /> - Respiratory Tract Irritant <br /><br /> - Liver and Kidney Damage <br /><br /> Source: <a href="http://www.healthgoods.com">http://www.healthgoods.com</a><br /><br />Thanks again for your continued support in helping the environment "one solution at a time".<br /><a href="http://neutralsolution.com/index.html"><br />Environmentally Sensitive Solutions (ESS) Inc.</a> is one of today’s leading manufactures of neutral cleaning solutions and environmental products. ESS has revolutionized the industry with the power of nature. ESS manufactures and distributes environmentally safe replacement cleaners for parts washers, floor cleaners, and other industrial applications. ESS products are, in some cases, direct replacements for alkaline and solvent cleaning products.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-38446168348469501492006-12-08T22:49:00.000-05:002006-12-08T22:53:35.537-05:00Rhoades Car<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/4w2pcp-d-769494.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/4w2pcp-d-768364.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>This item is pricey, and we don't have one ourselves, but we did get to try one once, and were quite impressed. In some cases, a Rhoades car could replace a engine driven automobile, is healthy for you, and with solar charged electric assist, can be downright practical. From their <a href="http://www.rhoadescar.com/">website</a>:<br /><br />Q. Who is Rhoades Car?<br />A. We are a division of a 27 year old company by the name of Rhoades National Corporation. Our only goal is to manufacture quality U.S. made 4 wheel bikes diverse enough to suit the needs of our customer. We build our bikes like we would like to have them ourselves. Little things like 3/4" axles, disc brakes, sealed bearings, and powder coat paint, do not come cheap, but it makes us proud of our product and we're sure you will be too.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-32544043447461836732006-12-05T18:05:00.000-05:002006-12-05T18:11:17.401-05:00Carbon TradingAn aquaintence of ours told us about this site:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.Celsias.com">Celsias.com</a> - It pays to save the world<br /><br />Welcome to the world's first online community for households and businesses to get paid for reducing the carbon emissions from their everyday energy usage.<br /><br />Global warming is caused by the build up of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. These gases are created by human activity – primarily the burning of fossil fuels to provide our electricity (generated from coal and gas), cars, flights and to create the food, clothes and other things we buy and consume everyday. This climate change crisis is costing billions of dollars right now and we're on a path to an uninhabitable planet.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.celsias.com">Celsias</a> is the first company in the world to enable everyone to benefit financially from taking action to solve this crisis and our patent pending service is your opportunity to get rewarded for playing your part – registration is free.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-91117920914359072902006-12-05T07:34:00.000-05:002006-12-14T07:58:45.349-05:00Film vs. Digital, What's good for the Environment?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/optio-723121.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/optio-722943.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a>We have been using digital cameras for a few years now, and it's our observation that we are saving money in not having to buy film and having it processed, but we are also reducing the chemical load on the environment, as film processing requires chemical that are supposed to be properly disposed of, but <a href="http://www.newstarget.com/001464.html">often are not</a>. Our cameras (a HP Photosmart 320 and a <a href="http://www.pentaximaging.com/products/product_details/digital_camera--Optio_M20/reqID--8689522/subsection--optio">Pentax Optio M20</a>) both use our NiMH rechargeable AA batteries, so we do not have to purchase and dispose of tons of batteries either. Available from <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/B000HDDKT8/webconx?dev-t=D3E49ECS9E0KO%26camp=2025%26link_code=xm2">Amazon</a>.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-88168031626881372562006-12-03T16:21:00.000-05:002006-12-03T16:31:13.948-05:00Solar Battery ChargerEvery house has a myriad of small electronics devices that take batteries. From remotes, to digital cameras, wireless mice and keyboards, to handheld video games. Our landfills are filling up with toxic waste from used batteries. We have switched to NiMH AA and AAA replacements. They last for years, and charge nicely in the car, from our off-grid energy system (or your wall outlet), or even with their own solar panel. Our friends at <a href="http://www.siliconsolar.com/shop/catalog/Travel-Solar-Battery-Charger-p-136.html">Silicon Solar</a> have a compact Sun Powered travel charger that charges AA batteries quite nicely. We think this makes the perfect companion to the LED Headlamp.<div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2366444529614239401.post-27167616821345105702006-12-03T15:57:00.000-05:002006-12-03T16:32:45.099-05:00LED Headlamp<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/zenix-led-headlamp-753098.JPG"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="http://tips.green-trust.org/uploaded_images/zenix-led-headlamp-752440.JPG" border="0" alt="" /></a>Ever need a handsfree headlamp to see what you are working on, or where you are going in the dark. We did, so we found a line of handsfree headlamps from <a href="http://www.bdel.com/gear/lightware_overview.php">Black Diamond</a>. Being LED, they consume minute amounts of power, while being very bright. We use rechargeable NiMH batteries charged with a solar charger, so the electric is clean, and there's no battery disposal issues (they last for many years in this application). Dharam bought us a Zenix IQ as an early Christmas present, based on his happiness with one of their earlier models. The company website has the following specs:<br /><blockquote><br />Smart lighting for the backcountry, the Zenix IQ provides non-fading, constant illumination in two modes: a collimated one-watt LED for a long-range beam, or two SuperBright LEDs for close-range ambient light. A single switch toggles between four settings for each mode—min, mid, max and strobe—and remembers the last setting you used. This lamp also supplies constant illumination and comes with a battery power meter and Find Me light.</blockquote><div class="blogger-post-footer"><a href="https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_xclick&business=sspence%40green%2dtrust%2eorg&item_name=Support%20Green%2dTrust&item_number=Support&no_shipping=2&no_note=1&tax=0¤cy_code=USD&lc=US&bn=PP%2dDonationsBF&charset=UTF%2d8">Donate to Green-Trust</a></div>KK4HFJhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17495516851959991808noreply@blogger.com0