Another Green Idea

While it is possible to make a difference on your own, it’s true what they say—there is power in numbers. As environmental problems are becoming more apparent, thousands of ‘Green’ groups are springing up all over the world. These organizations range from small grassroots groups to full scale government organizations. Each group is equally important, so it’s tough to choose which ones are ‘better’ than others. However, these three environmental organizations stand out among the crowd in terms of their membership and efforts worldwide.

UNEP

The United Nations Environment Program is in charge of coordinating United Nations environmental activities and assisting developing countries in implementing environmentally sound policies and practices.  Headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, UNEP keeps the global environment under review by bringing emerging issues to government attention for action. Since its creation in 1972, UNEP has covered a wide range of issues that help protect the atmosphere as well as marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Read the rest of this entry »

Did you know that lighting is said to account for between 10-15% of a households energy use? In fact, traditional incandescent bulbs convert only 5% of the energy they receive into light. This is not only a waste of your money; it’s a big waste of valuable energy. Thankfully, experts have created an eco-friendly alternative to the old inefficient bulbs.

If you haven’t already, do yourself and the environment a favor by switching to CFL lighting. CFL stands for compact fluorescent lamp. These bulbs work just as well as traditional light bulbs, plus they last longer and use way less energy.  We recommend Energy Star qualified CFL bulbs—they use 75% less energy and last up to 10 times longer. Did we mention you save $30 over the course of every light bulbs life?

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As cliché as it may sound, you really CAN make a difference.  The first step: try some of these cool eco-friendly products.

SOLIO Solar Powered Battery Charger: SOLIO products make it easy to go green in style. Their solar chargers work with over 3200 devices and can hold a charge for up to one year (it can be used in the day OR night).

Tide Coldwater: Save up to 80% of the energy used in each load with this future friendly laundry detergent. It fights stains AND energy consumption.

Clorox Green Works: These top of the line cleaning products are made from plant-based ingredients. They help cut back on the dangerous chemicals often found in cleaners, are biodegradable, and are packaged in recyclable bottles. Go green and go clean.

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The highly anticipated iPhone 4 hasn’t even hit the shelves yet and already, Apple is upping their game. This time, their newest technology is beyond revolutionary.

Recently, Apple filed a patent for solar powered media players. If successful, the production of solar powered Apple products (ranging from iPods to iPads), could change the face of handheld technology forever.

How is this even possible? Apple is working on various techniques that include integrating solar cell panels beneath the multi-touch surfaces of their products.  This means that the sleek designs of the iPhone and other iProducts would not be compromised for function. Your iPhone would still look like an iPhone, but it would be powered by the sun. It appears traditional charging options would still be available, but really, who’d want to use a plug in the wall when you can harness all the energy the sun has to offer?

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These days, it seems every car is advertising ‘environmentally safe’ features.  Of course, in a perfect world people would give up their fancy cars and start walking, but we all know that’s never going to happen. Fortunately, breakthroughs in environmentally safe transportation technology provide realistic alternatives to help reduce pollution.

Hybrid Cars

All the best automotive manufacturers have latched on to this green motor option. Hybrid vehicles combine two or more power sources (usually an internal combustion engine and an electric motor) to power the vehicle. Because of this, hybrids typically produce lower emissions and use far less fuel than conventional ICEVs (internal combustion engine vehicles). In addition to the obvious benefits, Hybrids also typically shut down the engine at traffic stops or while coasting, have improved aerodynamics which reduces engine stress, use special tires that help reduce fuel consumption, and use electrical power for the AC, power steering, and other auxiliary pumps to reduce mechanical losses. The three most popular Hybrids—Honda Civic, Honda Insight, and Toyota Prius—have managed to reduce emissions to 3.5 tons, that’s 2 tons less than the set recommended level by the EPA. These vehicles can reduce smog-forming pollutants by 90% and cut CO2 emissions in half. The only problem—the hybrid car battery is not yet recyclable and has negative environmental implications.

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In case you haven’t noticed, the world is buzzing with talk of a ‘Green Revolution’. People everywhere are realizing the negative effects our lifestyle has on our environment. Our goal is to gain awareness and make a change. While many simply nod in agreement, a select few actually fulfill their potential to make a difference. It is important to be educated on the reasons behind the Green Revolution to know what you’re fighting for—and to spread the word.

First and foremost on the list of reasons to go green is the obvious and inevitable onset of global warming. Global warming, or the increase in the average temperature of the Earth, is causing numerous problems worldwide. The worst part: evidence suggests it’s our fault. How can we stop the rising sea levels before it results in extreme weather events, species extinction, and changes in agricultural yields? Quite simply, it’s up to you. To all of us. It’s safe to say the majority of Americans are unwilling to give up their technology dependent lifestyles, even if it means saving the earth. But it is possible to make a difference by simply cutting down on fossil fuel burning. If you want to track your progress, calculate your carbon footprint and see what a difference you can make.

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