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How Do You Know Your Cleaning Products Are Green?
"Green" cleaning products are awash with misleading labels and false claims. Always look for a third-party certification to assure you're buying the healthiest, most environmentally friendly cleaners.
Eco-Laboratory Wins at GreenBuild
Net zero high rise is a self-contained sustainable community.
Greener, Homemade Cleaners
Conventional household cleaners contain toxic chemicals that could have adverse effects on your health. Learn how to mix up your own homemade cleaners with these suggestions from Natural Home magazine editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence.
Green Clean: Method Cleaning Products Receive Cradle to Cradle Certification
If you still want to do everything you can to make your home healthy—for your family and the planet—take a look at how you clean. Like it or not, we have to clean our homes on a regular basis. Natural Home offers lots of great ideas for making your own healthy, natural cleaning solutions—or look to some of the great green solutions now available at your grocery store.
Seeming Green
I first ran into the Green Building Initiative last March at the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association's Building Energy conference in Boston.
What Natural Household Cleaning Products Do You Use?
Share your thoughts. What homemade and natural cleaning products do you find work best in your home?
Groupon for Greenies: A Site to Save You Money
Green America offers savvy shoppers daily discounts--and reassurance that they're buying green--through GreenDeals.
Homemade Cleaners
Save money and have a healthier home with these ideas for assembling your own green cleaning tool kit. Plus, get our recipe for Lemon-Mint Window Wash.
Make Your Own Green Cleaners
Make your own all-purpose cleaners, dishwasher detergent and mildew remover with safe, simple ingredients. Ever think you'd be doing dishes with Kool-Aid?
$25 DIY Greenhouse
You can build a small greenhouse in an afternoon!
Tuesday Video: How to Make Natural Cleaners
Making your own cleaning products using vinegar, baking soda and water is healthy, easy--and cheap. Learn how to whip up your own cleaners using foods you already have in your kitchen cupboard.
Homemade Dishwashing Solutions
MOTHER EARTH NEWS readers recently named dishwashing formula as their most desired DIY cleaner, so we've rounded up some easy and inexpensive dish de-griming recipes for your automatic dishwasher or for washing by hand.
Paint the Town Green
This Friday, Beijing will show off its green improvements when the Olympics begin.
Greendex Study Finds Eco-Friendly Consumer Behavior Increasing Worldwide
Despite the worldwide increase in environmentally friendly lifestyles, the United States still ranks as one of the least eco-friendly consumer societies. Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence shares ways to green your habits.
False Green Claims On the Rise, Study Finds
TerraChoice's annual Sins of Greenwashing study finds that 95 percent of the products claiming to be green have used vague language, unproven claims and false certification labels.
Rare Chicken Breeds at Greenfire Farms
Do you count yourself among the chicken-obsessed? Prepare to be truly impressed. In this blog, Jeannette Beranger of The Livestock Conservancy takes you on a photo tour of just a few of the eye-popping breeds found at Greenfire Farms in Havana, Florida.
Holiday Hoop House Salad Bar
Potted greens are a good complement to greens in the hoop house soil.
New Season of Greensburg Series About to Begin
See green building in action! The third and final season of the Greensburg TV series is scheduled to begin on May 2, 2010.
Moving On Up
Environmental journalist Simran Sethi investigates the greenest way to move to a new house.
Get a Head Start With Chitting Potatoes
To make the best use of potato-growing season, use the technique of greensprouting.
GreenOx Presents Green Shed Technology for Consumers
Vantem Outdoor Living partners with Lowe's Home Improvement to deliver next generation shed and workspace structures.
Trying to tend to kids AND a garden.
The Two Kinds of People
Non-gardeners and gardeners are very, very different creatures.
Natural Spring Cleaning: Simple, Cheap and Healthy
With just three ingredients and two simple steps, you can clear away germs and freshen your home's air to welcome spring.
Whole Foods is First Retailer to Rate Green Cleaning Products
Most Americans believe that cleaning products are required to list ingredients on labels. They're not. But Whole Foods is taking matters into its own hands with a color-coded rating system that holds manufacturers accountable for green claims.
So You Want to Be a Farmer?
In the Spring of 2010, I quit my job as a high school theology teacher, because I wanted to be a farmer. I am now entering my fourth year of full-time farming, even though I had almost no experience farming. Here's how I did it, and some tips to help you on your way.
Natural Products Association Sets Certification Standards
The National Products Association releases its natural standards and certification for household cleaners and laundry detergents.
Are You Growing Anything Outdoors This Time of Year?
Readers share their winter gardening stories.
Backyard Vegetable Gardeners: Go Get a Hoop House for Winter!
It is not difficult to set up a backyard hoop house to extend your growing season. The result is abundant, delicious greens and extra months with your hands in the soil. Share information here on backyard hoop house gardening and cuisine.
Whole Foods Market to Carry Multi-Functional, Eco-Friendly 'GreenBox' from ECOvention
ECOvention, LLC announced today that as of August 2010, more than 30 Whole Foods Market locations in the Rocky Mountain region will use the multi-functional, eco-friendly GreenBox to serve take-away customers at their brick-oven pizza counters.
Make Cleaning Delicious; Just Add Essential Oils
Noxious fumes aren't conducive to happy cleaning. Give all your homemade cleaning solutions an invigorating and healthy boost by adding a few drops of pure plant essential oils such as lavender or lemon. Heavenly!
The Case for Using Sustainable Building Materials
Recently, I had an epiphany in a building supply center. Even though I've been in the building trades for over 35 years and made countless trips to purchase building supplies, this trip was different.
A Visit to Greensburg
Earlier this month I visited Greensburg, Kan., and toured a few of its many green buildings. Here's what I found.
After Seeds Have Sprouted in Indoor Greenhouse Trays, Should I Remove the Clear Plastic Lid? And Do I Need to Move Them to Bigger Containers?
A gardening expert discusses what you should do with your seedlings after they sprout in their indoor greenhouse containers.
Recycled Paper Guide From Greenpeace
Find out what's in your paper products with Greenpeace's Recycled Tissue and Toilet Paper Guide.
Green Gifts (2.0): New tips and ideas
More tips, ideas, and considerations for choosing green gifts. A sequel/supplement to last year's article!
Bedbugs and Small Homes: Top Trends of 2010
This year readers were concerned about bedbugs and greenwashing, and everyone wants to know more about smaller homes.
Driving Toward Sustainability in a Green Airstream
A California couple is hitting the road in a greened-up Airstream to share and gather lessons on living sustainbly.
Whoops! Heavy Snow vs. The Greenhouse
Cam learns the hard way why it's never a good idea to procrastinate about important jobs!
A Greenhouse: Part Two
The greenhouse takes shape with the help of family.
Let It Shine: Solar Heat for Gardening
The invention of clear window glass allowed the ancient Romans to trap solar energy to enhance their gardening techniques to grow vegetables out of season and exotic non-native plants in Rome. A thousand years later, empire builders in Europe rediscovered the trapping of solar heat with clear window glass so they as well could enjoy the foreign plants in their own back yard and grow native vegetables throughout the year.
Winter Challenges in the Country, Part 2
Suggestions for what to have on hand - and handy - when you hear a storm is heading your way.
How to Design a Year-Round Solar Greenhouse
How can you create a lush naturally abundant indoor garden year-round? With these 7 simple principles, you can create a greenhouse that is completely self-sufficient, relying only on the sun to provide all of its heating needs. Moreover, solar greenhouses can grow much more than traditional greenhouses - citrus, avocados, guava - using less energy, water and resources.
End-of-Season in the Greenhouse
As winter descends a three-season hoop house is weeded, compost spread, and a straw mulch applied. Next spring will be here soon.
After Tornado, Greensburg Reimagined by GreenTown
After Greensburg was destroyed in 2007, the citizens of Greensburg, with the help of GreenTown, have invested in green building for a better tomorrow.
Mulch Madness: Environmentally Friendly Mulch Options
A good layer of environmentally friendly mulch such as eucalyptus, pine bark or cocoa hulls will discourage weeds, keep soil up to 10 degrees cooler and help prevent plant disease. What's your favorite green mulch?
Natural Cleaners: Healthier for You and the Planet
You don't need to rely on toxic chemicals to clean your house. Opt for natural homemade cleaners or nontoxic options such as Bon Ami.
New American Solar Energy Society Director Promises to Get Aggressive
Former Boulder, Colorado, mayor Shaun McGrath, the new head of the American Solar Energy Society, has his work cut out for him.
Freezer Pleaser: Launching an Eco-Friendly Way to Keep Ice Cream Cold
Ben & Jerry's teams up with Greenpeace to bring the U.S. a cleaner way of freezing food, especially ice cream.
Freezer Pleaser: Launching an Eco-Friendly Way to Keep Ice Cream Cold
Ben & Jerry's teams up with Greenpeace to bring the U.S. a cleaner way of freezing food, especially ice cream.
Greening the Green Girl
Environmental journalist Simran Sethi talks about buying her first home and discusses what eco-friendly goals she has for her new abode.
LEED Platinum Homes and Buildings: Top-Ranking States and Countries
Find out which states and countries have the greatest number of LEED Platinum certified projects, and where the Platinum projects are located. Plus, a list of some LEED Platinum rated homes and residential buildings, with links to case studies.
What Can I Do With Big Bags of Greens?
An abundance of greens but a shortage of inspiration? Here are some ideas beyond just adding them to salads.
What Are Your Favorite (Unusual) Spring Greens — And What Do You Do With Them?
Readers share information and recipes about their favorite eating and cooking greens.
Grow Sorrel, a Versatile, Lemony Green
Try to grow some sorrel in your garden this season. It has a unique, zesty flavor that adds a zip to many dishes — and it has a long growing season.
Salad Greens to Grow this Summer
If you live in an area with high summer temperatures try growing one of these greens to replace your spinach.
Amazing Cold Weather Greens to Grow
Why and how to grow a variety of cold weather greens in most climates.
Make a Sassier Salad
This spring, try more interesting salads with spicy, crunchy, and colorful greens.
Be Here Now
Environmental journalist Simran Sethi spends her first night in her new home and reflects on the struggles and triumphs of the journey thus far.
Flatulence to Fuel in Brooklyn
A new wastewater treatment plant in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, will use methane gas to produce energy.
How To Build an Earth-Sheltered Greenhouse
Step-by-step building instructions for a passive solar greenhouse.
Simple, Low-Tech Trick That Keeps Your Greenhouse Warm (and Cool)
Keep your greenhouse above freezing during short cold periods without paying for a heater.
And Then There Were Two (Greenhouses)
Cam is trying to extend his growing season with DIY greenhouse structures.
You Don't Need Borax: Simple, Natural Nontoxic Cleaning Ingredients
You can get your whole house fresh and shiny clean with just five ingredients: lemons, vinegar, baking soda, tea tree oil and salt.
A Greenhouse, Chicken Coop Combo
These two structures for creating a sustainable homestead are not often associated, but with the right planning they can be integrated into a single multi-use structure that enhances both environments. A greenhouse/chicken coop becomes a year-round food-producing machine, giving you a bounty of fruits, vegetables and protein all in one.
Mini-Hoop Keeps Seedlings Warm
Baby greenhouse plants are spring babies too, just like the birth of baby animals. Here's a way to keep them warm in the hoophouse.
Cooking Greens for Greens Haters
The right recipe can convert people who think they don't like cooked greens, or energize cooks in need of fresh ideas. Here we offer a roundup of recipe ideas for garden-fresh greens from arugula to turnips.
USA Today's Top Green Homes: Efficient, Affordable and Beautiful
As Passive House Institute standards up the ante, USA Today's "Best Green Homes of 2010" list reflects Americans' desire for affordability, efficiency and style.
Green Homes: Online Case Studies and Project Profiles
One of the best ways to learn about green homes is to explore real-world examples--by touring homes or reading about them online. This article links to free online collections of case studies and in-depth profiles of green homes.
'Grass, Soil, Hope' by Courtney White
"Grass, Soil, Hope" by Courtney White is a new book from Chelsea Green Publishing that discusses combating climate change through land-based carbon sequestration efforts such as composting and increasing biodiversity.
Wifi Light Bulbs: Smart Step or High-Tech Clutter?
NXP's wifi light bulb would allow homeowners to turn LED and compact fluorescent lights on and off from anywhere, using any Internet-enabled device. Some say it's the first step toward building "smart" computer-controlled homes. Do we need this?
Super Spring Greens Smoothie Recipe
Get the most out of spring's cheap-but-healthy greens with this easy, nutrient-dense smoothie.
Pro Sports Leagues Embrace Solar Power
The embrace of environmentalism by professional sports provides us all with a new and large opportunity to educate people worldwide about the need to do something, however small it might seem, to protect our biosphere.
Energy Hogs
I am especially concerned with the electricity hogs that keep us burning coal.
Monsanto's False Advertising
Monsanto, the world's largest producer of genetically modified seeds and the toxic herbicides used to drench them, is calling itself a supporter of sustainability. You're kidding, right?
Greenhouse Made of Recycled Patio Doors Saves Money and Heat
How to build a greenhouse of used sliding-glass patio doors that is warmer and less expensive than plastic, and keeps out burrowing animals.
The $30 Greenhouse
The joy and sustainability of a greenhouse made of salvaged everything (well, almost).
Building a Cheap Greenhouse
HOMEGROWN Life blogger and Bay Area homesteader Rachel shares how she built a cheap greenhouse out of mostly scavenged materials - and how you can, too.
Protest for Clean Energy
Last weekend more than 12,000 people flocked to Washington, D.C., for a three day demonstration to demand the creation of green jobs, cuts in the country's greenhouse gas emissions and less dependence on fossil fuels.
Solar Activity, Greenhouse Gas Levels and Climate Change on Our Earth
An introduction to Richard Hilderbrand's new blog discussing climate change, plus the first installment. Learn how Earth utilizes greenhouse gases to ensure stable temperatures, or thermal equilibrium, as well as how fluctuations in solar activity relate to changes in global temperatures.
Year-Round Food Production: So Much More Than a Greenhouse
Grow food year round with no operating costs and no waste by using integrated closed loop production in a heat retaining enclosure.
The Greenest Ceiling Fan Ever--and How to Install and Maintain It
In my quest for the most energy efficient ceiling fan, one model blows the rest away. Now is the time to install ceiling fans for lower electricity bills this summer--here's how.
Creating Your Own Micro-Climate
Creating a micro-climate is an essential tool for your survival and homesteading skills. Making the right micro-climate for your plants specific needs will not only help them survive, but thrive as well.
Spring Planning
Starting flats of seedlings begins this year's growing season.
Grow Extra-Early Spinach with This Easy Tip
Get an early spinach crop with this easy gardening tip.
Growing Fabulous Lettuce and Greens
If you love salads, lettuce and greens are a great vegetable to grow. They do great in pots or in garden beds. With a few pointers, you can grow salad ingredients for the entire season.
Gingery Pickled Greens that Stay Tasty All Winter Long
Discovering an outsized pickling tub in our shed inspired me to try this tasty local recipe for greens preserved in soy sauce, vinegar, and sugar.
Late October, and the Garden Is Still Going Strong
The Ogden Community Garden winds down, and one gardener marvels at the late October harvest, and on how much the garden has meant to everyone who has helped tend it.
Good News: U.S. Greenhouse Gases See Record-Setting Decline
For the first time since the U.S. Energy Information Administration began collecting data on greenhouse gas emissions in 1990, the United States saw a record-setting 5.8 percent decline.
Historic Home Produces More Energy Than It Consumes
For less than the cost of an SUV, a Michigan couple rehabbed their historic home to include solar panels and a geothermal system. The 110-year-old house now produces more energy than it needs.
Needing Space from my Place
Simran Sethi reflects on her first summer of yard-care and gardening.
Spinach Alternatives: Warm Weather Salad Greens
Is it too hot to grow spinach where you live? Try these fabulous alternatives.
Cool Your House Without AC
Matt and Kelly Grocoff keep cool in Michigan by taking advantage of their 110-year-old home's natural ventilation strategies. It's as easy as opening a couple of strategically placed windows.
Cozy Abode
On the brink of settling into her new home, environmental journalist Simran Sethi shares some tidbits of eco-information, such as how to box and save for the move, and how a few simple changes can make your home cozier and more energy-efficient.
How to Green a McMansion? Tear It Down and Build Two Homes In Its Place
The Reincarnated McMansion Project aims to tear down one inefficient, climate-insensitive suburban house and replace it with two small, green, handcrafted homes.
Attitude of Gratitude
Environmental journalist Simran Sethi stays thankful for what's important in the midst of a big move.
Small Steps Toward Energy Efficiency (and Away From Moving Anxiety)
From switching out light bulbs to bundling up your water heater, environmental journalist, Simran Sethi, shares some simple and stress-free tips on how to save energy in your home.
Quick Tip: Preparing Your Potted Garden for a Hard Freeze
Give your pots the protection they need when freezing temperatures arrive with a portable greenhouse. You can also bring in pepper plants for the winter and have fresh peppers indoors.
An Upcycled Greenhouse
Building a greenhouse out of an old carport destined for the dump.
Resolve to Build a Hoophouse This Year
We've been growing in unheated hoophouses for a decade now, and we can't recommend them highly enough for commercial growers. If you have any dreams of market farming, the first thing you should buy is a hoophouse.
A Hoophouse on the Horizon, Part 4: Learning Curve
Gardening for the first time ever in a hoophouse is a lot like gardening elsewhere. But, it is gardening in a whole different climate!
3 Methods for Heating Greenhouses for Free
Smooth out the temperature range in your greenhouse by adopting one of these strategies for heating greenhouses.
The Greenhouse Dream Fulfilled
Cam has been collecting old windows for years and has finally put them together to make a greenhouse!
The Lowdown on Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
Compact fluorescent bulbs are very energy efficient, but disposing of them can cause complications because of the mercury in them. It is good to be informed about proper recycling and make informed decisions to minimize greenhouse gases.
Succession Vegetable Gardening
Using garden space to the maximum.
Grow a Quick Crop of Lettuce Indoors
Before space beneath your grow light is needed for onions and other early seedlings, fill it with baby lettuce grown in translucent clamshell salad containers.
Try This Technique: Grow Lettuce Under Shade
Many gardeners take lettuce off of their summer planting lists, but shade covers can put garden-grown lettuce on your table more than a month sooner this fall.
Meatless Monday Recipe: Polenta with Leeks, Wilted Greens and Mushrooms
Sauteed spring greens and mushrooms dress up polenta in this nutritious, satisfying main dish.
What to Plant Now: Leafy Greens
Sow leafy greens in late summer to reap abundant crops in the fall.
Simple, Natural 190-Proof Air Freshener
It's easy to make your own air freshener spray. You'll avoid chemicals and delight in the fresh smell.
Wabi-Sabi Wednesday: Simple, Natural Cleaning
Your simply imperfect arsenal for getting the whole house clean--naturally.
Natural Antibacterials: Get Triclosan and Other Nasty Chemicals Out of Your Home for Good!
Let's quash, once and for all, the notion that only harmful chemicals can kill germs and bacteria. Hydrogen peroxide, tea tree oil and grapefruit seed extract are natural antibacterials that keep your home clean--and safeguard your family's health.
Sun-Lite for Solar Greenhouse Application
Sun-Lite HP for greenhouse glazing provides excellent diffused light.
The Carbon Cycle
This blog explains how the carbon cycle regulates atmospheric levels of carbon dioxide. The blog also discusses how the burning of fossil fuels has disrupted the carbon cycle which increases the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
A Hoophouse on the Horizon
Putting up a hoophouse expands the growing opportunity into the barren winter months. A USDA program is helping market growers purchase a hoophouse to find out if local farmers and consumers reap benefits from extending local growing seasons.
Fossil Fuel and Atmospheric Levels of Carbon Dioxide
We discuss the concept that carbon dioxide released from the burning of fossil fuels is partly responsible for the current atmospheric carbon overload. We also briefly discuss other human activities that contribute to the atmospheric carbon overload.
Senate Starts Hearings For Energy Bill
Since the U.S. House of Represenatives passed the American Clean Energy and Security Act, the U.S. Senate started work on its own energy and clilmate change bill.
Thawing Permafrost Could Accelerate Global Warming
A new study finds that warming temperatures will cause up to two-thirds of the earth's permafrost to disappear by 2200, unleashing large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
The Arctic Feedback Factor and Climate Change
In this posting we discuss the role of the positive Arctic Feedback Factor in amplfying climate change. We also discuss how this feedback factor triggers the release of methane from the floor of the Arctic Ocean and from the permafrost.
An Aquaponics Greenhouse Makes a Splash for Homesteading Education Month
Andre Armantrout sent us this wonderful update from a Homesteading Education Month event featuring aquaculture at Snowy Pine Ridge, outside Spokane, Wash.
Nourishing Myself (A First Time Homeowner's Guide to Kitchen Renovations)
Simran Sethi describes the choices she made for her eco-friendly kitchen remodel.
Food is Love
Simran Sethi enjoys the fruits of late summer at a local farm dinner.
Hoop House Transformation
The hoophouse on our farm is filled with greens all winter long. It's almost hard to switch gears for summer tomatoes.
Shrimp and (Really Good) Grits with Greens Recipe
Recipe for Southern-style shrimp and grits, made with superb Floriani Red Flint grain corn.
When Spring Gives You Dandelions, Make Dinner!
Far from being weeds, spring's earliest greens are packed with nutrition and help detox the body.
Looking Ahead
Using cold frames for fall salad greens can extend your season of fresh eating.
Meatless Monday Recipe: Nest of Wilted Greens with Sunnyside Up Eggs
Ann Harvey Yonkers, founder of Washington, D.C.'s FreshFarm Markets co-op, nests eggs in a bed of wilted fresh greens for a delicious meatless summertime brunch or dinner.
Spring Greens and Other Things from the Early Vegetable Garden
The mild winter has led to an earlier than usual spring growing season and plenty of surprises in the way of plants making it through the winter that normally would never survive the cold season. Here's a peek at what's growing in my spring garden.
Good Friday Wild Stir Fry
Gathering weeds from your garden or yard can make a quick, healthy spring meal.
Seed Swaps, Seed Saving and Abundant Winter Veggies
Host a community seed swap in honor of "National Seed Swap Day," plan to save your own seeds from the garden this year, and get inspired to cook creatively with winter vegetables.
Look to the East
We Westerners tend to think we've got it all going on when it comes to green living in general, and green building in particular.
How to Build a Hoop-style Greenhouse
A "how to" for building a hoop-style greenhouse using PVC pipe and plastic sheeting.
Comment Before the EPA Rules on Carbon Dioxide
The Environmental Protection Agency is taking comments until Nov. 28 on how it should rule on global warming pollutants.
Putting the Community in a Community Garden
Describes the process of forming a community garden from the physical and energetic standpoints. The power of teamwork, the joy of accomplishment and the building of a feeling of group unity are described.
FTC Regulates Green Marketing
Green marketing faces new regulations from the FTC for the first time since 1998. Natural Home's Editor-in-Chief, Robyn Griggs Lawrence, tells more in "FTC's New Green Marketing Guidelines Go After Greenwashers."
Tell Everyone About a Great Green Nonprofit
Do you support or work for a nonprofit that helps protect the environment or promotes sustainability? Whether it's a small local group or a national one, this month you have the opportunity to help it get recognized in GreatNonprofits' 2012 Green Awards. Here's how.
How Can I Get an Eco-friendly House on a Low Budget?
MOTHER EARTH NEWS' green homes editor offers remodeling advice for home owners interested in reducing their environmental footprint.
Refugees Find Home on Iowa Farm
Global Greens Farm in West Des Moines, Iowa, helps refugees transition from growing food for their families to operating small businesses that sell produce at farmers markets, local grocery stores and to area restaurants.
Tomato Tastings, Fall Garden Starts, and Getting Ready for Garlic
Come rejoice in the bounty of heirloom tomatoes - experience the flavors and choose your favorites at tomato tastings throughout the Southeast. Plus, it's time to plant fall alliums - garlic and perennial onions - and fall crops for winter storage!
Summer Planting for Fall and Winter Harvest
It may be sweltering hot outside, but we're still busily sowing seeds at the Southern Exposure farms! Learn how to plant your bountiful fall and winter garden, with abundant harvests through Thanksgiving and beyond.
A Greener Economy: Green Jobs, Green for All
The economic stimulus package that President Obama signed last month provides $20 billion for investment in a greener economy.
Already There
I've heard that the moment you plunk down a deposit for a vacation or buy yourself a plane ticket, a good chunk of you is already at the beach (or the mountains or the city . . . or wherever).
Cheeseburgers in Paradise
Editor-in-Chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence gets a great dose of green--and cheeseburgers--in Austin, Texas.
Sweet Carolinas
Robyn finds enthusiasm for and interest in green building during a recent trip to the Carolinas.
Rest in Peace . . . or Get Your Piece?
I'm sitting on the deck of my room at the Northern Queen Inn in Nevada City, California, on a gorgeous spring day.
Good Green Gifts
Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence shares what she's learned about the challenges of mass producing eco-friendly products that meet our own tough criteria.
Does Buying Green Make Us Better People?
A new study shows that people who buy green products are more likely to cheat and steal than people who buy conventional products.
Do One Green Thing: Saving the Earth Through Simple, Everyday Choices
Mindy Pennybacker's new book, Do One Green Thing: Saving the Earth Through Simple, Everyday Choices, and her website, GreenerPenny.com, offer easy tips for daily green living.
Mayors Back Mandatory Green Building Codes
The U.S. Conference of Mayors endorses mandatory green building codes for all new commercial buildings nationwide.
The Year in Natural Homes
Our favorite natural homes of 2010 range in size and grandiosity, from a 280-square-foot mountain cottage to an urban warehouse-cum-artists'-loft. Every one of them can teach us a lot about living green.
2010 Predictions: Simpler, Greener Lifestyles
As a new year unfolds, Natural Home forecasts 2010 predictions—and it's good news—Americans will become smarter, greener consumers.
Blooming Green
This morning in my inbox: Orlando Bloom announced at Wednesday night's Global Green pre-Oscars party that he's building a green, solar-powered home in London. And an RISMedia report stating that despite the downturn in the general housing market, demand for green homes continues to be a hot trend.
2010 Predictions: Smaller, Smarter, Greener Homes
For part three of our 2010 Predictions series, the experts predict that consumers will demand—and create—healthier, more efficient homes. Cool by us.
Phoenix Rising
A Christmas present leads editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence to ponder the benefits of green-building initiatives in Arizona.
The Greenest Band in the Land
The Giving Tree Band has done it again with their latest folk album, "Great Possessions." Read how they created what has been dubbed "the greenest of albums."
Churches Take on the Environment
The green movement is showing up in some unexpected places.
2010 Predictions: Green Building Trends
Expect to see more modular homes, a boom in the green remodeling business and a ton more "green" products when it comes to green building trends in 2010—and be prepared to ask a lot more questions.
Seeing Red
For the past year, I've been chronicling the progress of a green-built home here in Boulder, Colorado, where I live, via this blog and accompanying videos. Watching the project unfold has been enlightening for many reasons, not least of which is the opportunity to see firsthand many of the cool technologies we read about and hear about. Sometimes that entails a little sacrifice.
Vespa USA Celebrates the 50th Anniversary of the Vespa 50cc Motor Scooter
Vespa USA highlights five decades of smart metro mobility, freedom and fun.
Deltec Homes Offers Hurricane Resistant Structures
In 45 years, Deltec Homes have never lost a house to high winds.
A New Way of Looking At the Bailout
Everyone's talking about the economic bailout, but few seem to focus on the bigger issue: we need more jobs, and we need a viable economic stimulus. One study shows those needs could come from green investment.
Arizona Green Chamber of Commerce Opens Local Chapter
The Arizona Green Chamber of Commerce is the only statewide green chamber of commerce in the country, and they're opening their first local chapter in Phoenix next week.
The EPA Recognized 20 Green Power Partnerships
The Environmental Protection Agency announced a list of the top 20 on-site renewable electtricity generators.
Renewable Energy Education
Join the green collar economy by going through a green job training program. Learn the ins and outs of solar photovoltaics, wind power or biomass and save the planet while furthering your career.
Announcing the Launch of Green Jobs Now
Discover Green Jobs Now: National Day of Action to Build the New Economy and learn how you can get in on the action by finding or even organizing events in your area.
The Earth Shelter
The "Earth Shelter" at The Farm Community in Tennessee combines the geothermal properties of the earth with solar design to produce a very energy efficient home.
How Your Business Can Go Green Without Going Bust
Learn about five easy ways for companies to help the environment by implementing a few simple changes to their building and operations.
How to Build a Green Construction Site
A single bulldozer engine can emit as much particulate matter as more than 500 cars. Learn how the construction industry can get green with these tips.
We Have an Old Garage and Need to Rebuild. Any Ideas for Making the Project More Green?
Here are some tips for making a new garage more environmentally friendly.
Uses for Green Tomatoes
Use these green tomato recipes when garden season leaves you with an abundance of green tomatoes on your vines.
Looking for Work? Find a Good Food Job!
A new job-finding website, Good Food Jobs, can help you find meaningful work in the food industry.
Car-Free Week, Dare to Ride!
Bike-Free Day happens all over the world on Sept. 22. Grist is challenging the US to rise to the occasion and celebrate with the global community this Saturday.
Dan Chiras on Net-Zero Home Energy Homes
This two-day, alternative building workshop featuring energy expert Dan Chiras will be held March 13-14, 2010 in St. Louis.
Mayors Form Green School Alliance
Mayors from across the country have created an alliance to facilitate green buildings for K-12 schools.
Chevrolet Announces Carbon Reduction Initiative with Video
In 2010, Chevrolet announced that they were embarking on their Carbon Reduction Initiative, an effort to invest $40 million in carbon offset projects across the country with the goal of reducing up to 8 million metric tonnes of CO2 emissions. The program includes wind, landfill-gas-to-energy, solar, efficiency, and conservation projects.
Chinese Drywall Leaks Sulfur Into Homes
Homeowners beware. Your drywall could be poisoning your home. Officials believe that since 2001, drywall imported from China has contained high levels of sulfur that could be leaking into homes and other buildings.
Natural Home Living: Everything You Need To Know About Going Green
Natural Home magazine editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence introduces her new blog, Natural Home Living, and shares everything you need to know about going green. Natural Home Living focuses on answering your green home questions, following green building news and showing you how to save money by going green.
U.S. Green Building Council Rejects Sustainable Forestry Initiative Wood
The U.S. Green Building Council singles out the Forest Stewardship Council as the only trusted wood certifier.
Do You Work in Food?
Readers share resources and information about their food-related jobs.
Where Can I Buy the Greenest Shower Curtain Liners?
Don't choose vinyl: There is a greener option.
Who Wood Have Thought?
In response to last week's post, we received a letter asking why the forest products industry would be considered a "foe" to green buildings. "I can understand why plastics and vinyl doesn't make sense, but aren't wood products exactly the kind of material that qualifies as green?" this reader asked.
Hot for This Pod: The Sustainsia Work Pod
Sustainsia's compact, green-built work pod could solve my office needs.
Explore the Waters During Blue August
Don't miss Blue August, a month-long event with special programming from Planet Green that will motivate you to become more aware of the world's oceans.
An Affordable Green Roof
Using low-cost — but durable — earthbag construction, you can create a beautiful green roof.
Museum's Smart Home Gets a Green Makeover
Midwest Living designers give the Smart Home at Chicago's Museum of Science and Industry a green makeover that features zero-VOC paint, furniture made from recycled steel and reclaimed wood, and other planet-friendly home decor.
Great Green Living Events
Enjoy visiting green living fairs, shows and workshops from Maine to Texas in every season of the year.
Greener Gadgets Conference: Gadgets to Get Excited About
Energy-monitoring devices won big at the Greener Gadgets Conference in New York City.
BuildSmart Standards Too High?
The Boulder, Colorado, green-building program will get a makeover for its second year.
Seed Savers Exchange Searches for New Executive Director
The Seed Savers Exchange is looking for a new executive director. Just six months after he succeeded George DeVault, Aaron Whaley has resigned.
Are Metal Roofs Better Than Shingles?
Find out more about your best options for a greener roof.
The National Heirloom Exposition: A Gardening Event for the Ages
Come one, come all to The National Heirloom Exposition, the gardening event people are hailing as "The World's Pure Food Fair!" This exhibition will be held in Santa Rosa, California and will host a variety of natural food events, including the largest showcase of heirloom fruits and heirloom vegetables in history.
The Other Gingerbread – a Strawbale House
Enjoy this alternative "green" building strawbale gingerbread-style house made with graham crackers, mini-wheats and pretzels.
Veteran Green Building Editor Wins Hanley Award
BuildingGreen.com founder and Environmental Building News editor Alex Wilson wins Hanley Award for Vision and Leadership in Sustainable Housing.
'Tis the Season: Shop Responsibly—Part 2
Remember to look for these key words when buying good, green gifts.
2011 Predictions: Remodeling Trends: Frugality, Comfort and Warmth
Natural Home is ahead of the most recent trends, highlighted in the National Association of Remodeling Industry's builder poll.
LEED for Homes: Guaranteed Green?
Learn what it means to have LEED-certified home and about the LEED for Homes program that started in 2008.
Consumer or Conservationist?
Natural Home editor in chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence discusses the pros and cons of green consumerism.
Carol Venolia Teaches Austinites to Live Lusciously
This week green building author, architect and Natural Home columnist Carol Venolia dispenses advice on green remodeling during workshops sponsored by Design~Build~Live in Austin, Texas.
Greedy for Green
The past couple of weeks have been heartening for me. First of all, I'm always ridiculously happy to see the month of March end. No matter what's going on in my life, the onset of April's longer days and the sudden burst of plum blossoms in my back yard causes a tectonic shift in my mood. I can't help it. I'm just completely in love with spring.
Home Economics 101: Go Green, Save Green
A recent American Institute of Architects (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey found that demand for luxury products is waning. In contrast, manufacturers are seeing an increased emphasis on both accessibility/universal design and renewable materials. Essentially, homeowners are shying away from expensive (and usually unnecessary) products that add little actual value to their home, concentrating instead on features that promote energy efficiency and sustainability.
Second round of stimulus includes green jobs
President Barack Obama's second wave of stimulus money creates new green jobs.
Why Are People Starving?
The reasons for the inequitable distribution of human nourishment, worldwide, are complex and hotly debated.
Cheaper Homes Cost More to Build
Dan Chiras discusses the long-term benefits of building a green home.
New Cycling App for Bicyclists
The free CycleMap cycling app pinpoints the locations of nearly one million miles of bike paths around the world.
10 Essentials for a Green Kitchen: What Would You Include?
From a little-known sugar substitute to a conversation-starting book, this list of items for the green kitchen contains a few surprises.
Chilipad Mattress Cooler
Wireless temperature control mattresses and pads offer a dream come true for restless sleepers.
Have You Used Low VOC Paint?
Believe it: With patience and pecking around, you can find low-voc paint for little more (maybe even less!) than you'd pay for conventional paint. What's your experience?
BuildingGreen Offers Free Insulation Guide
For one week, BuildingGreen is offering a free download of an insulation guide, available with a 30-day trial of BuildingGreen Suite.
Warren Buffet Backs Affordable Green Prefab Homes
Clayton Homes' first green prefab home project, i-house, will feature a plethora of green technologies and innovative designs.
Guaranteed Green: Top 10 Green Building Products for 2010
BuildingGreen's 2010 Top 10 Green Building Products list includes a low-flow toilet, composite decking, a high-performing wall system and other products that conserve energy and resources.
Study Helps Buildings Slash Energy Use
The DOE and NREL released a study outlining ways to build grocery stories and medium-sized businesses that need 50 percent less energy.
More New Energy From Renewable Power Sources
American and European renewable power sources made up more than half of the countries' new electrical capacity in 2009.
X Prize Finds "Craziest Green Idea" Winner
The X Prize Foundation recently announced the winner of their "What's Your Crazy Green Idea" competition.
Save Money and Go Green With an MPG App
Using an MPG app may help reduce your consumption of gas, and make your commute and road trips more economical and green.
Training Workshops for Solar Installers and other Energy Professionals
Are you looking for professional training as a solar installer or retailer? Check out this list of workshops available at the American Solar Energy Society's 2009 Conference.
Rescued from Landfill, Coffee Bags Become Unique Accessories
JavaCycle has saved more than 40 tons of burlap coffee bag from landfills.
Eco-friendly Weddings Series No. 1: Green Engagement Rings and Green Wedding Rings
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues — starting with rings, and making stops for invitations and food — that are both easy and fun to remedy. After all, it may be your big day, but that doesn't mean you should forget the big picture. This blog is all about green wedding rings and green engagement rings.
Buying, Selling and Marketing Green Homes: The New MLS for a New Generation of Sustainable Building
Marketing green homes has been limited to few websites with outdated listings that cost the seller or agent an arm and a leg to list. As a homeowner who had invested a lot of money in a green remodel of my own, I was perplexed as to how I was going to show off all the features of my home in a normal MLS listing. With years of research and development, I created a very innovative way to buy, sell, and market sustainable homes.
Innovative Environmental Policy to Green America
Branded as smarter capitalism, the Petition for a Green Recovery seeks a new kind of environmental policy to green America. Using financial incentives, this idea plans to create a marketplace that takes into account environmental and social costs while increasing the green jobs sector.
Just How Green is Green Building Anyway?
Some businesses toss around the word "green" to be hip and fit, but the question is just how green are their products and buildings anyways? Let's take a closer look.
What's the Best Type of 'Green' Insulation?
Mother Earth News' green homes editor discusses eco-friendly insulation options, and explains why some are greener than others.
The Beauty of Cordwood Building
A cordwood building consists of short, round pieces of wood (think firewood) held together with mortar, and there are many advantages to choosing this type of construction.
How to Create a Sustainable Workplace
Even progressive cities have work to do, and sometimes the biggest changes come from good people asking the right questions.
Be Smart About "Green" Businesses
Here are a few ways to know if a business is supporting green practices or not. Green practices are increasingly more and more important as companies increase and continue to have a large impact on the environment.
Does a Green Home Make a Difference?
Many people perceive going green as an inconvenience and an unnecessary burden on their daily lives. What they don't realize is that they can take simple steps to help protect the environment without the disruption to their lifestyle, but save money as well.
Looking for Reader Reports on Debt-Free Homes
Did you buy or build a home without going into debt? We're looking for stories on homes built with a small mortgage, or no mortgage at all. Here's what we want to know.
Guilt-Free Holiday Shopping
'Tis the season to shop for green gifts—here's how.
EPA's New Green Homes Website Helps Slash Your Energy Bills
A new Environmental Protection Agency website helps homeowners and renters decrease their energy consumption and cut carbon emissions.
Building Smart with SIPS
Learn more about this building project, which utilizes SIP technology combined with an unusual geometry.
Energy-Efficient Products for Your Home
Information about energy-efficient washing machines and cellular window shades. These energy-efficient appliances and window shades will please environmentally conscious consumers.
Toyota Taps Sun Power Too
Toyota installs a large solar panel system on a California facility, proving its green thumb extends farther than the road.
Paint With a Cause
Offering paint that saves the rain forest and a full list of ingredients, this natural finishes start-up aims to change the industry. Unearthed is making a bold move by providing full ingredient disclosure for all of its products.
Rock the Green: An Innovative Green Music Festival
If you crave great music with an eco-conscious cause, attend Rock the Green, Milwaukee's first green music festival.
'Tis the Season: Shop Responsibly—Part 3
Third-party certifications are extremely helpful. While you're out shopping, look for the following logos.
Buy a Lulan Artisans Bag, Fight Human Trafficking
Target Red Shop offers Lulan Artisans' fair trade clutch bags to help build better lives for weavers in southeast Asia and end human trafficking.
U.S. Green Building Council Promotes Green Schools
The USGBC's "50 for 50" green schools initiative aims to create a green schools caucus in every state legislature.
Beers Not Bombs: Company Makes Cool Stuff Out of Disarmed Nuclear Missile Systems
A company called From War to Peace makes "peace bronze" out of disarmed nuclear missile systems. The bronze is then transformed into cool items such as jewelry and bottle openers.
New Legislation Creates Green Building Opportunities
Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence explains how the new energy and climate legislation that creates opportunities in green building.
Accelerating Nature Through Green-Business Entrepreneurs
Accelerating Appalachia is the world's first nature-based green-business accelerator that connects innovators, investors and mentors that are aligned with people, place and prosperity.
Earthships: The Power of Unconventional Ideas
More than 30 years ago, Michael Reynolds followed his vision of sustainable, energy-efficient homes that would work with nature. Today, his Earthships inspire green designers and architects.
Green New Year's Eve: What Are Your Tips for Hosting an Eco-friendly Party?
Check out these tips and share your ideas for welcoming 2010 with a green New Year's Eve party.
Top 10 States for LEED Green Buildings
Washington, D.C., Nevada and New Mexico see the most LEED-certified green building per capita in 2010.
Lehigh Valley Green Builders Expo
The Lehigh Valley Green Builders is presenting its third annual Green Home and Building Expo.
Green Homes and Green Building Information: An Index
This index links to some recent and popular posts related to green building, design, remodeling, and home improvement. The posts cover a broad range of topics, from green products to projects to practices, as well as sustainable communities.
MOTHER EARTH NEWS Wins 2012 Eddie Award for Guide to Green Cars
MOTHER EARTH NEWS is proud to announce we have won a prestigious publishing award for our Guide to Green Cars.
An Unintended Death
The unintended death of a charming little creature raises the realities of life on a farm homestead.
Simple and Green Building
To me, the most important features of a sustainable building are not its technological wonders but its simple design features: common-sense strategies that should be incorporated whether the building becomes LEED certified, Energy Star certified, or is just trying to be environmentally friendly.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: The Back Story
In this blog, my architect James Plagmann and I begin to tell the story of the construction of Dan's new net zero energy homes. Dan begins by laying the ground, defining a few terms and describing his experience in this field.
Healthy, Natural Green Beer for St. Paddy's Day
Use spirulina or wheat grass instead of iffy chemical dyes to turn your beer green this St. Patrick's Day.
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 6: Do Full Loads of Laundry and Dishes
Heating water is the highest drain that laundry machines and dishwashers have on your bill. Onaverage, water heating accounts for 18 percent of your energy bill.
Bike Score Rates Bikeability of Cities
How does your city rate for bikeability? Check the Bike Score website.
EPA Offers List of Green Apps
The Environmental Protection Agency has compiled a list of more than 100 green apps.
The Responsibility of the Corporate World to the Environment
For decades, corporations have been able to skirt past being held accountable for any environmental irresponsibility, and that has helped propel us into a time where pollution is out of control, and our natural resources are at a constant decline. Raising the standards for these faceless corporations is becoming evermore necessary.
Evergreen Institute Releases 2010 Class Schedule
Check out these renewable-energy courses to see if there's an Evergreen class for you.
Is There an Electric Car in Your Future?
Do you see yourself in an electric car? Dan Chiras lists the benefits of driving an electric vehicle, and predicts the benefits will increase as the technology becomes more sophisticated.
Green Gingerbread Houses: Building with SIPs
Check out this green gingerbread house built by MOTHER EARTH NEWS staff: It includes cookie and candy versions of SIPs construction, a living roof, and a solar electric system.
Natural Toys and Games for a Green Holiday
There's no reason not to "go green" when picking up a game for a young loved one. Despite the abundance of "Made in China" plastic toys and games that line the aisles, some companies have made it their business to create amazingly fun toys and games for children in ways that protect, preserve or restore the planet.
Compare Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Step on the gas with a clear conscience: Use Clean Cities' vehicle comparison site to find the right light-duty model among alternative fuel vehicles, and green up your life in the fast lane.
House Mouse Control
Safely eliminate mice in your home with these house mouse control tips.
Building SIPsmart: Concrete Forms
Michael Morley's SIPs home project is underway. On Tuesday, March 2, the excavator dug trench footings in at the site.
7 Ways Your iPhone Can Help Save the Planet
It's about seven unique way's you can use your iPhone to be more energy efficient.
Seven Lesser Known Devices That Can Help You Conserve Resources in the Home
In our modern society, we are starting to realize how important the environment is and how fragile it really is. Our resources are limited, and if we aren't kept in check, we will ruin any hope we have of preserving it. Using the technology we have available to help us is something everybody can do.
Get Smart About 'Green' Businesses
Here are a few ways to know if a business is supporting green practices or not. Green practices are increasingly more and more important as companies increase and continue to have a large impact on the environment.
Green Technology
New, efficient technology is replacing the old, and it is transforming the way in which we live, and more importantly, our impact on the environment.
Winner of Our Green Tomato Recipe Contest
Readers responded eagerly to our call for recipes to use up green tomatoes. An Ohio woman wowed the judges with her entry.
A College Degree No Longer a Guarantee
We are currently facing a job crisis. Most jobs available today require specific skills and not college diplomas. Congress recently passed the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act which should help train workers but fails to take note of the booming green job market.
'Integrated Forest Gardening' by Wayne Weiseman, Daniel Halsey and Bryce Ruddock
"Integrated Forest Gardening" is the first, and most comprehensive, guide about plant guilds ever written, and it covers in detail both what guilds are and how to design and construct them, complete with extensive color photography and design illustrations.
3 Reasons Why We Haven't Switched to Alternative Energy
Alternative energy has become a hot topic in recent years as we try and work towards more sustainable resources. Whether we'll get there or not remains to be seen.
Moving Toward an Ecology-Based Economy
As the planetary ecology falters, and finite resources are depleted, communities everywhere will be challenged to create vibrant local economies that function within and help to renew local ecosystems.
Passive Solar Homes vs. Passive House Standards: What's the Difference?
Passive House standards incorporate passive solar design principles, but the two labels don't mean the same thing. Learn about the difference between passive solar design and Passive House certification.
Bike and Walk to Work for Better Health
Biking and walking to work have significant health benefits, according to a new study. Pedestrians and cyclists have lower risk of diabetes and high blood pressure, and tend not to be overweight.
Test Driving Ford CMAX Energi Packs a Green Punch
For two weeks, I tested a hybrid vehicle. My family liked the car, I liked the car and without a doubt, the Ford C-MAX Energi is an amazing ride.
Green Building Council Honors Small, Affordable Home
The U.S. Green Building Council's Project of the Year is a small, urban home built for $100 per square foot.
New Electric Bicycle: 40-mile Range, Reasonable Price Tag
The stylish new Sanyo eneloop bike features a partially-self-charging electric motor and can travel up to 40 miles on a single charge.
Fried Green Tomatoes with a Cheesy Crust
Learn how to make fried green tomatoes with a cheesy crust with this twist on a classic Southern recipe.
Morton Buildings Project Applies for LEED Platinum Certification
Morton Buildings is a proud ENERGY STAR® partner and also employs LEED Accredited Professionals to assist customers looking to achieve certification.
Hemp-Lime Building Tested for Energy-Efficiency
Researchers at the University of Bath are all set to test the efficiency of the HemPod, a building made from a hemp-lime composite.
Would You Pay $40,000 for the Chevrolet Volt?
General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz recently discussed the price of the highly anticipated Chevrolet Volt. What do you think?
Building SIPsmart: The Shell Is Complete!
Michael Morley is making progress on the SIPs home he's building in Lawrence, Kan. The roof is in place and the shell is essentially done.
Bank The Farm: Let it Snow!
How packing snow against your house can add R-value to your insulation - and subtract energy costs.
Tiny House Subdivision Planned in Oregon
Small house builder Rich Daniels seeks to cluster 100 homes under 400 square feet in a former sawmill.
Clean With Vodka: Trade the Martini Glass for a Spray Bottle
Clean with vodka for a spic-and-span house and less of a headache in the morning! You can use the alcohol to freshen your laundry, remove mold and mildew, and even repel bugs. Vodka kills bacteria and dries clear and odor-free, making it an ideal addition to your cleaning cupboard.
Giving Green Gifts: Tips and Ideas
When shopping for the holidays, consider these seven strategies for giving greener gifts.
Thai Green Tomatoes with a Coconut Crust
How to make Thai-inspired fried green tomatoes.
Green Tomato Relish Recipe
How to make canned green tomato relish.
Aveda Receives Cradle to Cradle Certification
Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence finds another great reason to indulge herself in Aveda products: Aveda is the world's first beauty company to receive Gold Cradle to Cradle accolades.
Greenest Pizza In Town
Pizza Fusion is one of the 10 finalists in Co-op America's People's Choice Award for green business of the year. The company uses only organic ingredients and delivers its pizza with hybrids.
Earth-Kind Named Green America Top 10 People's Choice Finalist
The 10 People's Choice finalists are great examples of the socially and environmentally responsible business leaders that meet the standards of Green America's Seal of Approval.
Building SIPsmart: Concrete Finish and Risers
Michael Morley's SIPs home project is underway, and despite an unexpected snowstorm, progress has been made on the concrete slab and the risers.
Lots of Green in the Stimulus Package
Yep, some of the money in that stimulus bill is committed to green initiatives, including creating green jobs.
Carrotmob: Get Involved!
Carrotmob, a project of Virgance, a company that organizes activism campaigns, works to create social change by rewarding green businesses through consumer buying. Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence explains more about this innovative activism group.
What's Green?
Canada is helping define "green" products for its advertising industry.
Quick Cook Method Turns Algae Into Biocrude
Researchers from the University of Michigan have developed a way to "pressure cook" algae to produce biocrude. The process shows promise in the development of green fuels.
Radon Testing and Dogs that Sing the Blues
I think testing your home for radon is a good idea, and these dogs agree with me!
FTC's New Green Marketing Guidelines Go After Greenwashers
The Federal Trade Commission's proposed revisions to its environmental marketing guidelines would make it more difficult for marketers to make false green claims for their products.
Priscilla Woolworth Goes Green
PriscillaWoolworth.com makes conscious shopping easier by selling a variety of green household products and fair trade items from around the world.
Hand-Crafted Log Home Course
Learn to build your own Hand-Crafted Log Home
Have a Green Holiday by Focusing Less on the Red
We offer you some helpful tips on how to have a green holiday this year.
MAX Update No. 51: The Rally Green Route
The Rally Green starting flag drops in Knoxville Iowa, Sunday August 15, beginning a cross country fuel economy rally ending in San Francisco the folowing Saturday. MAX will be there and going for the gold.
Invest in Green Vehicle Technology Now or Later?
If you need a new car — and want one that employs green vehicle technology or hybrid vehicle technology to save gas — there's no major reason to wait.
Green Washing and Sustainability: Don't Trust the Label
To what extent are manufacturers able to take advantage of the enigmatic nature of the term 'sustainability' to effectively green wash their products?
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Redefine
In Simran Sethi's final post, she describes her philosophy on sustainability.
Major Corporations Support Green Power
The Environmental Protection Agency releases a list of the top green power purchasers in the United States.
Building SIPsmart: Raising the Dome
Michael Morley has an exciting update on the house he's building in Lawrence, Kan. The dome is starting to go up!
Should the White House go for LEED Certification?
President Obama plans to help earn the White House LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council.
Taking the Sting Out of Tax Day
February's stimulus plan offers tax credits for eco-friendly home improvements, which could keep your money in your wallet this tax season.
Truck Gas Mileage
Today's full-size pickup trucks are more efficient than trucks of just a few years ago, but it's still common for truck gas mileage to be in the mid-teens. The best overall full-size pickup fuel economy can be found on the Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid and GMC Sierra Hybrid.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Series No. 4: Green Wedding Venues
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues — starting with rings, and making stops for invitations and food — that are both easy and fun to remedy. After all, it may be your big day, but that doesn't mean you should forget the big picture. This blog is all about green wedding venues.
U.S. Small Turbine Wind Market Soars
Natural Home editor-in-chief Robyn Griggs Lawrence explains why wind energy is growing in popularity right now.
Combining Cycling and Public Transit Helps Ease Long-Distance Commutes
Integrating cycling and public transit is an inexpensive and efficient way to travel longer distances.
How Long Can You Make Your Green Tomatoes Last?
Readers share tips and tricks for storing green tomatoes and keeping them longer.
Environmentalists Help Obama Create New Green Economy
Twenty-nine environmental groups created a plan for Obama's transition team, explaining what environmental issues need to be addressed in order to create a green economy.
The Potential of Green Charcoal
Pro-Natura International is changing how the world fuels itself by turning renewable biomass and other waste products into green charcoal.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Series No. 6: Eco-Friendly Wedding Decorations
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues — starting with rings, and making stops for invitations and food — that are both easy and fun to remedy. After all, it may be your big day, but that doesn't mean you should forget the big picture. This blog is all about eco-friendly wedding decorations.
Solar Electricity for Homeowners and Aspiring Professionals
Dan Chiras announces a four-day energy workshop he'll be teaching in Kansas City, Mo.
New Boom for Real Estate: Community Gardens
Real estate and land use demands have many people left on a waiting list by their local community gardens. Never fear: There's still plenty of options to get growing!
Habitat for Humanity History
Most people have at least heard of Habitat for Humanity. But when I dug a little deeper and sifted through the ol' letters in the attic of the house (so to speak), I uncovered some interesting details.
Roasted Green Tomatoes
How to roast green tomatoes to be eaten alone or to boost the flavor of other recipes.
2011 Trends: Bamboo, Biomimicry, Green Luxury Cars, Stricter Standards
JWTIntelligence predicts big green changes in the coming year (including tube-free toilet paper).
Dynamic Recycling focuses on Environmental Sustainability and Data Security
Dynamic Recycling is a La Crosse, Wisconsin-based computer and electronics recycler, IT asset management and electronic scrap purchasing company. Since the company's January 1, 2007 inception, Dynamic Recycling has been providing exceptional customer service to the Mid-West and beyond in regards to accountability to the various needs of corporations, scrap yards, municipalities, educational institutions and manufacturers to whom they work with.
Where Do You Find Used Building Materials?
Recycling building materials from other sources is a great way to cut the cost and reduce the environmental impact of your DIY projects. We want to know where readers go to find reclaimed or used building materials, and how they use these materials in home projects.
Current Motor Company Debuts Line of Electric Scooters
Current Motor Company recently introduced a line of electric scooters that could take you where you need to go without using a single drop of gasoline. And with a potential $2,000 discount for new customers, the electric scooters could help your wallet while you help the environment.
Green Builder Gives Airstream Eco-Friendly Makeover
Green builder Jim Gooley gutted an Airstream Trailer and renovated it with cork flooring, clay plaster walls, bamboo countertops and other eco-friendly materials.
'Build It with Bales' Offers Instruction on Building Straw Bale Homes
Learn how to build a straw bale home by downloading this free guide.
Best-Ever Green Enchilada Sauce
What can you do with mounds of green tomatoes? Turn them into the best enchilada sauce you'll ever have.
'Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation' by Tradd Cotter
In 'Organic Mushroom Farming and Mycoremediation,' author Tradd Cotter offers readers an in-depth exploration of best organic mushroom cultivation practices, shares the results of his groundbreaking research, and offers creative ways to apply cultivation skills—whether the goal is to help a community clean up industrial pollution or simply to settle down at the end of the day with a cold Reishi-infused homebrew ale.
Agriculture and the Environment
While productivity is often the name of the game at large farms, local food, minimal environmental impact and healthy conditions for farm workers also are hot topics today. Yet, our agriculture — and our living — have a greater impact on the environment and the life it supports than these issues alone address.
Keynote Kevin Danaher Preaches Golden Rule
Kevin Danaher, the first keynote speaker of the 2010 MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR, proved an appropriate choice to kick off the event. His presentation, Green Jobs are the Future, was an upbeat assessment of what ordinary citizens can do to affect positive economic change. It also reminded everyone gathered that in order "to save the eco-system, we must transcend the ego-system."
Countertop Water Filtration Growing In Popularity
Try to get clean water and wanting simple bottling options with the purity. Most of the experts in water say you need a countertop water filtration system. Which one is the way to go? This story shows you one option but seems to be kicking it up.
Local Investment, Green Business, Corporate Social Responsibility, Sustainable Economies
A list of links to orgs, associations, websites, books, and other resources related to local economies, community resilience, green business, corporate social responsibility, green jobs, environmental and social entrepreneurship, and investment.
How to Choose Less-Toxic, Low-VOC Paints and Coatings
Most conventional paints and coatings emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to poor indoor air quality as well as to smog. This overview includes a link to a product listing of healthier low-VOC, zero-VOC, and natural paints.
Going Solar in Seattle
Getting solar panels in Seattle is becoming more affordable with state incentives and net metering but still doesn't quite compare to other states.
To Compost or not to Compost, That is the Question!
It has become a Christmas ritual for me to clean out my mother's fridge. I find whiskery gnarled morsels, shoved to the back of the fridge many months previously, unseen, and untouched by my mother's arthritic hands. Do I compost all this detritus?
A Beautiful Green Backyard Burial
When my father's health was failing, he requested to be buried on our property. The purpose of this story is to take you through our walk with an ailing parent and to encourage and inform those who may be considering an at home burial.
The End of a Life Journey: Part Two
A Beautiful Green Backyard Burial: This story is written to help inform anyone that may be considering being buried, or burying a loved one, on their own property. It shares some of what one may go through at the end of a life's journey.
Eco Hostels For All
A vast range of eco-hostels are available to book through Hostelbookers, helping you plan a greener trip
Urban Gardens: Green Lifestyle and Design Blog Receives Awards, Launches New Ventures
The success of Urban Gardens is a story about an expansion of one's reach outside of one given discipline.
A Biofuel-Powered Hybrid Home on Wheels by Sunray Kelley
SunRay Kelley's Gypsy Wagon is an exciting, sustainable home on wheels built from a camper vehicle.
Bill Coperthwaite and the Arts of Culture
A Review of "A Man Apart: Bill Coperthwaite's Radical Experiment in Living," by Peter Forbes & Helen Whybrow.
Honey in the Hive, and Hope in the Spring
There's honey in the hive, peaches on the trees, and food on the table, but it's still a long way from self-sufficiency.
My Journey Home From Chemical Sensitivities
An introduction to Paula Baker-Laporte's future readers : about Paula, multiple chemical sensitivities, Building Biology and the role of green building in health.
Builders Should Be Required to Orient New Homes Toward the Sun
Enacting a law requiring builders to orient new homes toward the sun would drastically reduce home energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.
Green Traveling Tip 1: Saving Money, Saving Energy, Saving Resources
Save energy and resources and reduce waste when traveling by dumping all your trash in one receptical.
Survey: Green Homes are Still Too Expensive
Americans continue to believe that green homes make a difference--but they need to be more affordable.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Series No. 8: Green Wedding Gifts and Eco-Friendly Wedding Favors
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues — starting with rings, and making stops for invitations and food — that are both easy and fun to remedy. After all, it may be your big day, but that doesn't mean you should forget the big picture. This blog is all about green wedding gifts and eco-friendly wedding favors.
Green Roofs Growing Quickly in U.S.
The square footage of green roofs--which absorb rainwater, regulate temperatures, save energy and resources and provide valuable habitat--grew by 28.5 percent last year.
Groovy Globe Launches Organic Product Line
Groovy Globe will donate 10 percent of its sales from each product sold to non-profit environmental organizations.
Sustainable Building and Business Conference
Dan Chiras of The Evergreen Institute invites readers to attend a one-day conference on the future of building in Wichita, Kansas.
37 Million Green Jobs Are Possible
ASES released a report that says 37 million green jobs are possible by 2030. Check out the study here!
My Friend Mark Seiden Went Solar on His Business and He's Saving $57,000
I have know Mark for years. Since I have known him (give or take a few years or so) Seiden asked me what were the best ways to go green and save energy at the same time. Then two years ago, we started with CFL bulbs. Now I'm trying to get him to go LED and get really green lighting in effect. In time. In time.
Clever Remodel of a 1920s Cabin: Honoring Location and Legacy
A California architect gives a 1920s cabin more space and better views--without disturbing the riparian area it sits on.
The Joy of Green Cleaning: Teaching People What a Cut Lemon and a Little Salt Can Do
The Joy of Green Cleaning is a fantastic resource with recipes to clean everything from grout to sheepskins.
Vision Houses Showcase Green Living in Orlando
Green Builder Media's Vision and ReVision Houses highlight energy efficiency, water conservation, waste management, indoor air quality and great new green materials.
ACHS Recertified as Gold Certified Business
The American College of Healthcare Sciences and Apothecary Shoppe have been re-certified as Green America Gold-Certified businesses.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Series No. 3: Green Transportation for the Big Day
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues that are both easy and fun to remedy.
A Road Warrior's 800-Square-Foot Condo Renovation (And Check Out His Van)
When he renovated his 816-square-foot condo in Boulder, Colorado, Greg Miller borrowed space-saving and efficiency solutions from his years of living on the road. Check out this video of his van, prepped for adventure.
Renewable Energy Faces Show Benefits of a Green Economy
The Union of Concerned Scientists created a new Web feature to show the success of green-collar jobs.
All-Natural CompoClay: A New Alternative to Gypsum and Resins
Made from natural minerals, sea salt, water, sand, recycled coal byproducts and natural fibers, CompoClay is a promising alternative to gypsum, engineered wood and resins.
Reducing Transportation Emissions
Transportation in the U.S. is responsible for high levels of carbon emissions. Simply by changing habits and adopting more eco-friendly methods of getting from A to B will help both the environment and overall health.
A Sustainable Event: Greening Waste Diversion at the Mother Earth News Fair
The Mother Earth News Fair staff and volunteers work on green initiatives to divert Fair waste from landfills, recycling and composting as much as possible.
The Perfect Kale Shake
The perfect Kale shake
Do the Math Tour 2012
Bill McKibben is doing a national tour to raise awareness about climate change and to build a movement around changing the way we use energy.
Low-Cost, High-Efficiency Home Improvements that Pay Off
Green home improvement and retrofit projects that only require a minimal investment and that have a sure (and often speedy) payback. These relatively low-cost improvements can reap real savings. Plus, a link to info on tax credits and rebates.
Frontier Natural Products Co-op Awarded Prestigious LEED Green Building Certification
Frontier Natural Products Co-op announced today that it has been awarded LEED Silver certification for a major renovation at its manufacturing facility.
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 7: Air Dry Your Clothes and Dishes
Replacing a task that uses electricity with one that does not is a no-brainer when trying to save on your energy bill — and air drying is one of the easiest ways to go.
Wood Foam May Be the Answer to Eco-Friendly Insulation
Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Wood Research in Germany have developed a new type of insulating foam.
Changing the footprint for Passive Solar Gain
To build a net zero energy home, you'll need to design for passive gain. That requires a shallower footprint to ensure that the low-angled winter sun can enter and heat each room.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Preparing the Footer and Foundation
Insulation under the slab -- and lots of it -- is vital for the performance of a net zero energy home. So is the footprint. You can make the most of passive solar by creating a longer, narrower house in which each room is heated by the sun.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Air and Watertight Electrical and Plumbing Penetrations
Be sure to install under-the-footing conduit to run electrical and water pipes, including sewer. I like to run pipes and wire under the foot to prevent penetrating the band joist or the foundation to create a more airtight, water tight home.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Budgeting for Extra Subslab Insulation
Don't forget to budget in the cost of deeper excavation and add $1000 to $2000 as a budget contingecy in case you run into bedrock.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Insulated Concrete Form Basement
Insulating concrete forms are an excellent choice for foundations for passive solar, net zero energy homes. They create a highly insulated, air-tight foundation, so essential for extremely high energy performance.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: The Anatomy of an ICF
ICFs are not the most environmentally friendly green building product, but result in super energy efficient home, and offer many other benefits, that offset their origin from petrochemicals.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Reinforcing ICF Walls
ICF walls must be carefully braced to prevent blowout.
Eliminating Bridging Loss from the Foundation
Creating a net zero energy home requires that we eliminate all thermal bridging loss -- heat movement into and out of a building. All this starts in the basement.
Modular, Prefab, and Compact Green Homes and Structures
A listing of companies that offer green dwellings in the form of modular, prefab, manufactured, compact, or mobile structures. These days, many such options are available that are not only green, but also beautiful, well-made, and often low-cost.
A Perfect Summertime Retreat--Built for $22,500
Swamp Hut is a complex of four 8-by-12-foot huts surrounding a deck with a fireplace. This an off-the-grid, light-on-the-land summer getaway could easily be replicated in your favorite vacation spot.
Think Outside the Box: 3 Suburban Remodels, from Ranch House to McMansion
From the boxy ranch house to the superfluous McMansion, suburban housing has never been particularly inspired. These three homes show what you can do with that raw material, with a little ingenuity and a willingness to work with what's there.
Certified Green Homes Sell for 30% More in Oregon
Existing homes that are certified as "green" sold for 30 percent more than homes without such a designation, according to an analysis of the Portland, Oregon, metropolitan region released today by Earth Advantage Institute, a nonprofit green building resource. Newly constructed homes with a sustainability certification sold for 8 percent more than non-certified homes. This result continues a four-year trend in which new homes with third-party certification for sustainable construction and energy performance have consistently sold for more than newly constructed homes that had not been certified. The term "certified home" includes homes that received an Earth Advantage New Homes, ENERGY STAR, or a LEED for Homes designation, or a combined Earth Advantage/ENERGY STAR certification.
Green Goods: Useful Products and Gifts
An index of previous posts that have referenced green products. These posts have covered building- and home-related products, as well as chocolates, books, and other types of goods. Many of the products mentioned in these posts would make good gifts.
All-New 2011 Honda CR-Z Sport Hybrid Coupe to Start at Less Than $20,000
The all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z sport hybrid coupe will debut Aug. 24, 2010. Developed as a stylish, driver-focused vehicle with an emphasis on efficient performance, the all-new 2011 Honda CR-Z introduces a sleek two-passenger coupe design with quick, sporty handling to the gasoline-electric hybrid segment.
Framing Double 2-by-4 Walls
I decided to build double 2-by-4 walls to achieve 14-inch thick super-insulated walls. This is just one way of achieving the high R-values for net zero energy homes.
Why Not & Why Bother to Build Your Own House?
Everything you need to know about avoiding problems when you build or remodel your own house - learn from the mistakes of others and make fewer of your own.
Bike-Share Programs Across the World
Bike-share programs are now operated in more than 500 cities in 49 countries. Most cities are finding that bike sharing leads to better mobility and safer streets.
Report Shows Cyclists Are Good For Business
Good news for businesses! An Oregon report shows cyclists and walkers spend more than motorists.
Cleaning, Breathing and Drinking Toxicity
Seth Leitman explains toxicity in our products and how green living is about recovering from these products.
Green Jobs in Obama's Stimulus Package
Environmental groups want supporters to write Congress to ensure that the new economic stimulus package includes green jobs.
Motorcycle vs. Car: Which is Best for Commuting?
As gas prices go up, more motorcycles appear on the roads. There's a strong belief among commuters that bikes are cheaper to own and operate. But which machine is really the winner in the battle of motorcycle vs. car?
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Changing the Foot Print for Passive Solar Gain
In this blog, I describe two of the first and most important design considerations -- the length and depth of the home and the layout of rooms for optimum passive solar gain.
Design around the Sun
Dan Chiras talks about the benefits of passive solar design.
Seal It Tight! Save a Bundle on Home Heating Costs
Renewable energy expert Dan Chiras shares tips for saving on energy costs by sealing leaks in your home.
Pedestrian-Detection Technology Is Hitting the Streets
Technology similar to that used for tracking street use may be used to track pedestrians and keep them safe.
Wanted! Top Sustainable Living Reports
We're interested in how our readers have lessened their environmental footprint.
Why Social Media Plus Crowd Funding are Essential Tools For Green Business
Seth Leitman explains why social media, websites and crowd funding are essential tools for green businesses to survive today.
Home Automation: 5 Ways it is Combating Global Warming
How new technologies, such as home automation are making Earth more eco-friendly.
Avoiding Disaster: Why We Need Green Development
But what happens if progress in poverty's eradication far-outpaces green energy solutions? Two of the most important issues of our century — clean energy and poverty eradication - are potentially mutually exclusive, if development efforts do not factor in increased consumption that will occur.
Ecotourism Adventures in Miami and Fort Lauderdale, Part 3
Nested amongst the skyscrapers and tucked between white-powdery beaches and either the buzz of South Beach or nature preserves in Hollywood are some eco-minded hotels and restaurants offering patrons a taste of local and sustainable cuisine.
Green Tomato and Avocado Salsa
Use green tomatoes from your vegetable garden to create a refreshing summer avocado salsa.
New Home Insulation Guide for DIY Home Renovation
A new building insulation guide is available from NAIMA Canada to assist homeowners in choosing the right insulation for new building and DIY home renovation projects.
Passive House vs. Passive Solar: A Continuing Discussion
The ongoing debate between the merits and faults of Passive House design and passive solar design is important for those looking to build an energy-efficient home and for all enthusiasts of energy-efficient building. We've opened up the discussion to our online audience in this blog post. Please share your thoughts!
Amtrak to Celebrate Seventh Annual National Train Day
Learn about riding the rails with Amtrak on National Train Day this May.
What Projects Are You Planning to Make Your Home Greener?
We'd like to hear about projects you have planned that will help you save energy, save water or otherwise make your home greener.
Nerd on Two Wheels - My Solar-Powered Electric Bike
Cam is back riding his solar-powered electric bike and he loves it!
2012 Bicycle Travel Award Winners
Check out the 2012 Bicycle Travel Award winners selected by Adventure Cycling Association.
Get Paper Towels Out of Your Life for Good
Replacing paper towels with rags is a super simple step toward sustainable living. Follow these simple tips to get disposable paper towels out of your house. You'll never miss them.
Celebrate Alternative Transportation on World Car Free Day
World Car Free Day is an annual international event to raise awareness about alternative transportation. Every Sept. 22, cities and towns around the globe recognize the negative impacts of car pollution and encourage walking or biking as ways to save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Green Sheep Shop Specializes in Yarn that Treads Lightly on the Planet
Organic, sustainable, recycled, fair-trade, and naturally dyed yarns are our focus.
Chevrolet Begins Taking Orders Nationwide for 2012 Volt
Chevrolet dealers in all 50 states are now taking orders for the 2012 Chevrolet Volt electric car.
Sauté-Blanched Green Beans
Here is an easier way to blanche vegetables, such as green beans, before freezing them.
Toyota RAV4 EV Coming to Market in 2012
Recent reports have incorrectly stated that the 2012 RAV4 EV will only be marketed to fleet and car sharing programs. We'd like to set the record straight.
Better Living Through Chemistry?
Have you ever wondered why our food has become so industrialized? Where some of those chemicals that are in almost everything, came from?
The Beekeeper's Apprentice Steps Up
Check out the installation process of an urban beehive.
Plop Plop, Fizz Fizz: Clean with Alka-Seltzer
Alka-Seltzer can give your cleaning routine a little extra fizz. Try it for unclogging drains and cleaning toilets.
How to Have a Great Relationship with Your Contractor
Treat your building professional as you would want to be treated--and more great advice from contractors and designers who have seen it all.
Does Your Electric Utility Offer a Green Power Option?
We'd like to hear more about your experiences with green power. Is it available where you live? How does the price compare to what you would otherwise pay for electricity? Why have you — or haven't you — chosen this option?
Defending the Country Stereotype
If you're the first of your friends to move to the country, get some chickens and plant an organic garden there will be some inevitable social fallout.
Rishi Tea Introduces 12 New Teas(2)
Rishi Tea has handcrafted 12 new loose leaf tea blends, including 6 innovative botanical blends, 3 delicious chai teas, 2 energizing green teas and an aromatic oolong – perfect for fall and the holidays.
What's Your Fantasy Green Home?
Having a "green home" means lots of different things. What does it mean to you?
Eco-Funerals Raise Environmental Awareness in China
China's largest green burial ceremony is part of the growing trend of eco-funerals in a country that is trying to conserve land.
A Lookout Tower-Home
A lookout tower home, which features reclaimed materials, connects its homeowner with her past, present and future.
A Growing Trend, Car Sharing Offers a Different Mobility Option
Car sharing is becoming more popular in the United States, and is a greener method of transportation.
2011 Energy Outlook: More Renewables, Fewer Imports
U.S. energy consumers will rely more on natural gas and renewables and less on imports in 2011. Coal remains dominant.
The GO Home Receives 2011 Project of the Year Award From US Green Building Council
GO Home, built by architecture and construction firm G•O Logic LLC, received the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) 2011 LEED for Homes Project of the Year Award.
Office Depot Introduces Cascades Moka Bathroom Tissue
A strong partnership between Cascades and Office Depot to deliver on customer need for softness and strength while significantly reducing total environmental impact.
Rails-to-Trails Could Give Schools and Communities Safe Routes to School
Schools and cities all around the U.S. are using abandoned rail corridors to encourage foot and bike transportation in their communities.
Test Driving the New Honda CR-Z Hybrid!
Managing editor John Rockhold gets a Honda CR-Z hybrid on loan and has a hard time returning to his desk.
Malcolm Wells and Earth Sheltered Homes
Learn more about the life and work of Malcolm Wells, the "Father of Earth Sheltered Design."
Mobile Egg House Breaks New Ground
Made from bamboo, wood and grass seed, this tiny house could be our future.
International Green Construction Code Releases Groundbreaking Green Building Standards
The International Green Construction Code, an International Code Council initiative, released its first set of green building standards today. Standard 189.1 addresses energy efficiency, site sustainability, materials and resources, and more.
Eco-Friendly Wedding Series No. 7: Environmentally-Friendly Wedding Food Ideas
In this blog series, I'll guide you through eight sustainable wedding issues — starting with rings, and making stops for invitations and food — that are both easy and fun to remedy. After all, it may be your big day, but that doesn't mean you should forget the big picture. This blog is all about environmentally-friendly wedding food ideas.
MAX Update No. 55: No Go in Rally Green
Jack missed Rally Green and MAX has a mysterious overheating problem.
Homegrown, Homemade Cutting Board
With resources from Mother Nature, you can make natural and beautiful homegrown holiday gifts.
Get in the Spirit of Supporting a Greener KC
Join Carrotmob in the movement to help local businesses become more green.
Mother-Daughter Team's Southern California Home-Based Business Grows at Phenomenal Rate
Re-Pac reusable bags replace plastic bags and sell like hotcakes
Building SIPsmart: Considering Concrete and Solar Hot Water
Michael Morley will post regular updates about his progress building a unique green home with structural insulated panels (SIPs). Here, he discusses options for installing a colored concrete floor, and considering whether to install a solar hot water system.
Nissan To Launch All-Electric Leaf As Upgraded 2012 Model In New U.S. Markets
Nissan North America Inc. is expanding availability of the all-electric Nissan LEAF to U.S. consumers for the 2012 model year, with upgrades based on feedback thousands of Leaf owners.
Old Fashioned Milk Paint is the First USDA Certified Biobased Paint
According to the USDA, consumers can feel secure in the accuracy of the biobased claim and can make better informed purchasing decisions.
Electric Smart Car Finally Coming to the United States
With the Smart ForTwo electric drive, Smart is underlining its pioneering role on the road to attractive individual mobility with no local emissions in cities and urban areas.
A Year in the Round: From the Ground Up (Pt. 1)
Settling on a flooring option for the tipi was pretty simple after coming across an awesome company that was right under my nose the whole time.
How to Avoid Unsafe Chemicals in Plastic
Learn about Bisphenol A (BPA) and its prevalence in plastic manufacturing, and get tips on how to limit your exposure to BPA, phthalates, and other unsafe chemicals in plastic.
DIY Solar Power Is a Wise Choice
With photovoltaic (PV) panel technology you can tap into the amazing world of free totally renewable energy from the sun. You generally cannot find a better more reliable source of power on the planet that solar. In our book you will find that a DIY on grid/off grid system is very affordable and a wise choice for almost everyone.
Build a Greener Future with Earth-Sheltered Homes
Learn about the different types of earth-sheltered homes and why you should consider digging in the ground to find your next residence.
Getting to Know the Farmers at Winter Green Farm, Part 1
Originally founded as a homestead in 1980 by Jack Gray and Mary Jo Wade, Winter Green Farm has grown to become a successful biodynamic farm in Oregon's southern Willamette Valley. This profile of Winter Green Farm has been excerpted from "Planting A Future: Profiles from Oregon's New Farm Movement."
'An Unlikely Vineyard' by Deirdre Heekin
"An Unlikely Vineyard" by Deirdre Heekin tells her story of growing wine in the unlikely hills of Vermont and her quest to express the essence of place in every bottle. It is about the evolution of her farm from overgrown fields to a fertile, productive, and beautiful landscape that melds with its natural environment. A gentle narrative with lush photography, this book will appeal to anyone who loves food, farms, and living well.
The Next Green Revolution
We need a new "green revolution" to ensure a healthy habitat for humanity's future.
The Poor, Still With Us
The good news: We can grow a lot more food than we could in the old days. The bad news: We can't grow enough
Seven Springs Speaker Spotlight: Andrew Rumbold, Biodiesel Maker
Andrew Rumbold of Bucks County Freedom Fuel will present a workshop on making biodiesel at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, September 24-25, 2011 in Seven Springs, Pa.
Sigi Koko of Down to Earth Design - 2011 MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR
Sigi Koko of Down to Earth Design and some assistants demonstrate her method of constructing strawbale walls with clay at the 2011 Mother Earth News Fair in Seven Springs, Pa.
The Green Fork in the Road
Green living is similar to taking yoga. It is a 'practice' – the more you get into, the more there is to learn. It really comes down to three simple things. Are you ready, willing and able to start living green?
Seven Springs Speaker Spotlight: Nathan Kipnis, Green Architect
Nathan Kipnis of Kipnis Architecture + Planning will present two workshops on green energy and building at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, September 24-25 in Seven Springs, Pa.
Seven Springs Speaker Spotlight: Dan Adams, Electric Car Builder
Dan Adams of Earthineer will present a workshop on building an electric car at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, September 24-25, 2011 in Seven Springs, Pa.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlight: Doug Kennedy, Green Construction Expert
Doug Kennedy of TM4 Group will present a workshop on home owner operation and maintenance at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlight: Molly McCabe, Green Remodeler
Molly McCabe, green remodeler, will present a workshop about sustainable remodeling for kitchens and baths at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlights: Reginald Beck, Gluten-Free Baker and Bruce Glenn, Straw Bale Builder
Reginald Beck, gluten-free baker and Bruce Glenn, straw bale builder will present workshops on gluten-free baking and straw bale building at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlight: Aaron Gould, Eco-Builder
Aaron Gould, green builder, will present a workshop on the economics of ecobuilding at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlights: Kathy Bennett, Shepherd and Scott Bergford, Green Home Builder
Kathy Bennett and Scott Bergford will present workshops on raising sheep and keeping your green home safe at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlights: James Zitting, Beekeeper and Terry Phelan, Straw Bale Builder
James Zitting of Bee Landing and Terry Phelan of Living Shelter Design Architects will present workshops on beekeeping and straw bale building at the Mother Earth News Fair, an annual sustainability festival, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, Wash.
Puyallup Speaker Spotlight: Sukita Reay Crimmel, Earthen Floor Builder and Bryan Welch, Author, Rancher and Publisher of MOTHER EARTH NEWS
Sukita Reay Crimmel of Claylin and From These Hands, and publisher of Mother Earth News Bryan Welch will present workshops on building earthen floors and how to build a sustainable future at the Mother Earth News Fair, June 4-5, 2011 in Puyallup, WA.
Little Green Girl Visits Neighbor Bruce's Chicken Coop
At Green Roof Growers in Chicago, Little Green Girl takes a field trip to the new chicken coop. Holding chickens, meeting the puppy Carl, and visiting the chickens' new home are all part of the fun.
Climate Change - The Opportunity
Climate Change is a real threat to the future of humankind, but within that threat is the seed of opportunity.
Earth Gauge Tip of the Week — The Benefits of Green Roofs
Tips on how green roofs can benefit your wallet and the environment!
Living Offgrid Affordably #15: Power Us Up, Scotty
Our power system begins to take shape.
Living Offgrid Affordably: Before Getting Started
Jeff and wife Kathy have lived off-grid since 2002. They strive to inform the public about ways to live inexpensively, and to further the principle of sustainability. Visit their website to learn more: www.naturalpower.weebly.com
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 10: Check Your HVAC Air Filter
Did you know that a dirty filter in your HVAC equipment can reduce its efficiency by up to 20 percent? Didyou also know that it is recommended to check your filter every month? Don't despair!
MSI Green Lighting Lights Up and Saves Money, Energy and Our Environment
If you missed it, be sure to check out this great informative interview with John Burke of MSi Green Lighting LED Company. They are lighting it green in Macy's and saving them millions!! They use Cree LED diodes in their bulbs and proprietary tech.
Solar Tour Sparks Nationwide Movement
The Solar Energy Tour is coming to communities all over the U.S. the first weekend of October — learn how to attend an event, or create one yourself.
Green Building's 'Bleeding Edge'
The bleeding edge of technology is where the true pioneers of their respective industry reside. Adam D. Bearup has had his own impact in the green building field on several fronts, above and below ground.
Researchers Study Switchgrass Biofuel
A Louisiana State University forestry researcher is looking at a fast-growing plant called switchgrass as a potential biofuel feedstock. Using switchgrass biofuel is practical because the plant requires little fertilizer and can tolerate drought and floods.
Water Catchment on the Suburban Frontier
Catching and storing rainwater is one of the most important tasks on the suburban frontier for "green preparedness." It's a great way to build "home economics" and connect more closely with taking care of basic needs.
6 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Green Home
A list of the 6 most basic questions to ask before a buyer purchases a green home.
'The Wild Wisdom of Weeds' by Katrina Blair
"The Wild Wisdom of Weeds," by wild-foods advocate and author Katrina Blair, is the only book on foraging and wild edibles to focus on thirteen weeds found all over the world, which together comprise a complete food source and extensive medical pharmacy and first-aid kit. Blair's philosophy is sobering, realistic, and ultimately optimistic: If we can open our eyes to see the wisdom found in these weeds right under our feet, instead of trying to eradicate an "invasive," we could potentially achieve true food security and optimal health.
'Farming the Woods' by Ken Mudge and Steve Gabriel
In Farming the Woods, authors Ken Mudge and Steve Gabriel teach readers how to fill forests with food by viewing agriculture from a remarkably different perspective: that a healthy forest can be maintained while growing a wide range of food, medicinal, and other non timber products. Forest farming is an invaluable practice to integrate into any farm or homestead, especially as the need for unique value-added products and supplemental income becomes increasingly important for farmers.
'The Nourishing Homestead' by Ben Hewitt
In The Nourishing Homestead, Ben Hewitt along with his wife Penny tell the story of how we can create truly satisfying, permanent, nourished relationships to the land, nature, and one another. With plenty of practical ways to grow nutrient-dense food, build soil, and develop traditional skills, this book is sure to inspire a new generation of homesteaders.
Free App Keeps Green Fuel Flowing and Clean Cars Rolling
One of the newest apps for green car owners is Cleaner and Greener Fuels, which locates refueling stations for alternative fuel vehicles.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Design Priorities
This blog contains a detailed list of most of my initial design priorities for my net zero energy home so others may benefit from my thinking and experience on creating a passive solar, net zero energy, green home.
Tuesday Video: How to Avoid Disposable Utensils and Paper Products
These money- and waste-saving alternatives to paper and plastic products eliminate the temptation to resort to disposable for your summertime outdoor dining needs.
Simplify the Holidays: 12 Days, 12 Ways
Simplify the Christmas season with these 12 tips for gifts, gift wrapping and decor—as well as steps you can take to make your celebration light on the planet.
Clean Your Entire Home with Baking Soda and Vinegar
Highlights from the "Make Your Own Green Cleaners--for Pennies" workshop at the Mother Earth News Fair: How to use vinegar and baking soda to clean just about everything.
Why is There an Energy Crisis?
A BIG issue in everyone's lives today is increasing fuel costs. The seriousness and scope of our energy problems calls for an all-out effort for sustainable solutions, starting as soon as possible.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: ICF Wall Support
Scaffolding is required to access the walls to pour the concrete. Scaffolding also helps support the walls.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Reinforcing the Garage Door Opening
Additional reinforcement is required around the garage door opening.
About Honeybees and January… and April…
Ordering bees in January doesn't seem to make sense, until you understand that April is the cruelest month. Plus, if you order bees in January, and then you don't need them - that's just a reason to celebrate! Order early!
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Key Early Decisions
In this blog, I highlight the earliest decisions I had to make to create a net zero energy home: how I was going to build the foundation and walls. Thermal bridging, air tightness, insulation, cost, and greeness are all key deciders.
Teaching True Green at Dining by Design
Organic Architect's Eric Corey Freed shows designers what green really means during Dining by Design, a charity event featuring tabletop installations in New York.
Our Water Footprint
Simran Sethi interviews Tom Kostigen about water waste and conservation.
Green Technology Stars at Consumer Electronics Show
Home energy management, electric cars and solar gadgets take starring roles at consumer electronics industry's biggest trade show.
Corporations are Going Green--Slowly but Surely
While corporate progress toward sustainability may seem agonizingly slow, GreenBiz editors found plenty to cheer about in 2010--and believe 2011 will be a banner year for green initiatives.
Weekend Project: Quick Pickles!
Quick pickles--which don't require turning your kitchen into a sauna--are a fast, fun way to preserve abundant cucumbers (or even green beans). Simply soak vegetables in saltwater and vinegar solutions and let the flavors develop in the fridge.
Made from Shipping Containers and Recycled Steel, This Kit Home Has It All
Made from repurposed shipping containers and recycled steel, based on Prius engineering, with a gray water system and a living roof, this Mojave Desert residence and workplace is a prototype for low-cost prefab kit houses everywhere.
Clean Your Home with Food (and Spirits) That You Already Have on Hand
I had such a great time talking with attendees at the Mother Earth News Fair in Puyallup, Washington, this past weekend about how to make green cleaners. As always, I learned a new trick or two, and I promised everyone I'd recap our conversation here for easy access. Today let's talk about some of the unexpected food items—most of which you already have in your kitchen cupboards—that can be used to clean your home. Use tea to remove old furniture polish and prepare wooden furniture for polishing. Simply soak a rag in room-temperature tea, then run it over the wood. The tea's tannic acid makes your wood shine while removing all the dirt. Once that's done, you can use mayonnaise to make the piece shine. Just rub the mayo into the wood, then follow with a damp rag and a few drops of vinegar to remove any residue. Olive oil is also a great natural furniture
Green Faith
Simran Sethi explains how the green faith movement can provide common ground among different groups.
Earth Week Special From Worm's Way
Want to Save on Earth-Friendly Products? Check out Worm's Way's sale by clicking on the Earth Week banner at WormsWay.com and enjoy up to 20 percent off your purchases.
Earth Day 2013: Action Essential to Reduce Environmental Impact
By focusing on environmental change this Earth Day, we can reach our green potential. Green initiatives need to be implemented, both individually and collectively, for us to reduce our environmental impact.
How to Make a Spinach and Cheese Calzone
Once reserved for the pizzeria, the calzone is possible to make in your own home.
The Evergreen Institute Becomes MREA Approved Training Provider
Courses in solar energy taken through The Evergreen Institute now apply toward the Midwest Renewable Energy Association's site assessor certificates.
Energy Star Is Not Just for Refrigerators
Energy Star for Homes is a worthwhile green building certification with demonstrated market value.
May Is National Bike Month
Go out for a spin this May during National Bike Month, and join the growing ranks of people who are discovering the benefits of bike commuting.
Landing a Job in Renewable Energy
More and more people are looking for jobs in the renewable energy field. If you're interested in this type of career, here's how you can get started.
The Secret to Meeting the Dual Desires of Today's Homeowners
"Green," sustainable homes that deliver low cost of ownership.
Edamame Soybean Plants Are Tough
Edamame soybeans are tough,fast-maturing plants that can withstand extreme garden conditions. They have few problems with disease or insect pests. The green pods are delicious and high in protein, and make a good addition to an edible landscape.
Borax Has Issues; You Have Alternatives
Because it could cause eye and skin irritation and harm reproductive systems, the Environmental Working Group recommends avoiding it. Baking soda is a solid, safe alternative.
The Propane Mower in the Off Season
Thoughts, experiences, and tips after a season of mowing with the propane-powered lawnmower.
The New Home in 2015: Smaller, Greener, Smarter
Builders and designers believe that low-e windows, engineered wood products and eat-in kitchens will be key characteristics of new homes in the future.
Bicycle Infrastructure Guide
The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) recently released an updated version of its Guide for the Development of Bicycle Facilities -- the go-to bicycle infrastructure guide for planners, engineers and contractors.
USDA Awards Green Earth Technologies First Certified Bio-based Product Label
Green Earth Technologies is a "totally green" clean tech company that combines sustainable, American sourced, bio-based ingredients with proprietary technologies shaped around the four ideologies of being GREEN: biodegradable, renewable, recyclable and environmentally safe.
Bird-X Changes the Pest Control Industry With Green, Humane, Eco-Friendly Solutions
Bird-X, Inc., a leader in producing humane pest and bird repellent products since 1964, is raising the bar even higher for the pest control industry, offering 'green' solutions for every pest and bird problem.
Building SIPsmart: HVAC and Serious Windows
Michael Morley is posting regular updates about his progress building a unique green home with structural insulated panels (SIPs). Here he talks about HVAC work and installing windows.
Five Green Driving Tips That Will Save Money and Gas
Save money and gas this Earth Day — and every day! — by using these five green driving tips from the Car Care Council.
Casa Neverlandia: Fun With Green Building
A wonderful, whimsical Austin eco-remodel is the playful expression of two highly creative minds.
Bob Marley's Legacy Lives On in Sustainable, Cause-Minded Electronics Line
Marley Audio Electronics collection, which debuted last week, showcases premium, eco-conscious manufacturing and materials, including hemp.
Nine New Indicators that Bicycle Travel and Tourism are Booming
Recent studies and stories from around the world indicate that bicycle travel of all kinds has increased in popularity. The Adventure Cycling Association lists nine new indicators that bike travel and tourism are booming.
Green Travel Options: Tell Us About Your Best and Worst Train and Bus Experiences
Taking a bus or a train can be a great green way to reach your vacation destination. We'd like to hear more about your bus or train travels and what you liked, or didn't like, about the experience. Share your story here!
American Airlines Scores High On Newsweek's Green Rankings List
American Airlines is the greenest U.S. airline for the third consecutive year in Newsweek's Green Rankings List, an annual environmental ranking of the country's 500 largest publicly traded companies.
Landing a Job in Renewable Energy: Degree Programs
Will a degree increase your employment prospects? Absolutely. Here are some programs to look into.
The Race is On for Bike-Share Systems in the Midwest
Bike-share systems are popping up in cities across the Midwest as bike sharing becomes a more popular transportation option.
Green & Black's Takes Brand's Commitment to the Dominican Republic
Green & Black's, an organic chocolate company, takes a two week trip to the Dominican Republic to dig an 11.5 km trench. The trench will supply water to their cocoa farmers, helping product the cocoa which makes Green & Black's chocolate bars.
New Energy-Efficient 'Form-Fitting' Windows
Custom Curve is the first glass window system with a structurally engineered framework that follows the curved wall of the yurt.
At Finca Exotica, Green Building is Only Natural
To build Finca Exotica, a sustainable resort on Costa Rica's Osa Peninsula, the owners took advantage of plentiful native bamboo, kept the footprint small and let buildings unfold organically.
Nuclear Energy: Let's Not Repeat Our Mistakes
Renewable energy expert Dan Chiras warns us that building nuclear power plants is not the solution to our current energy crisis.
Clean Sweep of Earth Day
Here's a chance to transform your home into the greenest one on the block and then pay it forward to your neighbors to help paint your whole town "green."
Energy Star Program Launches New Initiative
The Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program launched its 2011 Change the World, Start with Energy Star Campaign. This campaign encourages and inspires Americans to commit to energy efficiency by highlighting grassroots efforts of individuals all over the United States.
In North Carolina, A Passive Solar Home Gets Active
Chris Larson's Asheville, North Carolina, home--already a superb example of smart, passive solar design--gets even better with the addition of solar hot water collectors.
Video: Craig Vetter on Streamlining and His Latest Fuel Economy Challenge
Renowned motorcycle inventor and longtime aerodynamics expert Craig Vetter stopped by the MOTHER EARTH NEWS office on his way home from his latest fuel economy challenge.
Teleconference Held to Show Realities of Green Economy
Lester Brown from the Earth Policy Institute held a teleconference on Dec. 11 to discuss the advantages of a green economy, for the environment and the U.S. work force.
Tiny House Conference to Take Place in North Carolina
The first Tiny House Conference will take place in Charlotte, North Carolina, on April 16.
Pat Stone: History's First Asset to the Planet
Congratulations to Pat Stone creator and editor of Green Prints Magazine and, now, a recognized Asset to the Planet!
GREEN vs. SUSTAINABLE
Future factors set a high standard for sustainable products and activities
Lively Potato Salad
A very lively potato salad recipe that is always a hit at potlucks.
Photo of the Week: Inside a Dome Home
Live in a dome home in this week's Photo of the Week. Remember to submit your own pictures, and you could be the next Photo of the Week!
Every Day is Earth Day on a Motorcycle
The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) notes the environmental benefits of commuting and traveling on a motorcycle.
Triton College Encourages Sustainable Living by Installing Electric Car Charging Stations on Campus
Triton College has installed electric car charging stations in an effort to promote greener lifestyles in the community.
Gasless Super Welding Machine Aims to Fill Acetylene Shortage
Multiplaz North America announced it continues to woo potential resellers, as it is overwhelmingly winning consumers with its green technology, gasless, based Super New Plasma Welding and Cutting Machine, the Multiplaz 3500.
More Advice for Landing a Job in Renewable Energy
When you're looking for a job, there's just no substitute for getting out and meeting the professionals in the industry.
5 Ways to Get Your Home Ready for Winter
Before winter's chill starts to compromise comfort and elevate home energy bills, there are 5 energy-saving upgrades you can complete.
Wood Powered Cars of Every Kind
Looking at all the wood powered cars
Come for the FAIR, Then Embark on an Ecotourism Adventure
Come early or spend a few days after the three days of the MOTHER EARTH NEWS FAIR, held at the Seven Springs Mountain Resort in Pennsylvania this September 12 – 14, 2014. Less than 30 miles from Seven Springs Mountain Resort, there's an ecotourism adventure to be had.
Ecotourism in Asheville, Day 3
Asheville has a long history of attracting people searching for a tranquil place for personal retreats and wellness. For Day 3, it's time to chill, revitalize ourselves and do some rebalancing of our mind, body and spirit on a health and wellness tour.
Getting Back to Nature: Fantastic for the Mind, Body and Spirit, and the Environment
People are increasingly looking to get back to nature, rejecting the modern world and living off the Earth.
Annie's Green Tomato Salsa Recipe for Water Bath Canning
This year I took several liberties in developing a new version of salsa verde. I don't grow tomatillos so I use green tomatoes. I won't call it salsa verde (except on the lids of my jars), because it isn't authentic. But let me tell you, it is GOOD. Here is Annie's Green Tomato Salsa Recipe good for use when water bath canning.
Test Driving Toyota's 2013 Prius Plug-In and Loving It
For Bryan Welch, a prototype of Toyota's 2013 Prius Plug-In is a real life example of how gasoline electric hybrids have made major gains in efficiency over other conventional cars.
Malthus' Last Laugh
We're probably on our way to a population-related catastrophe, after all.
Report Shows 13 Percent U.S. Solar Industry Job Growth
The Solar Foundation found a 13 percent increase in U.S. solar industry jobs in 2012, which is promising for the overall job market, and shows stability in the solar energy job market.
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 5: Close Your Windows!
Many people don't know that most HVAC systems don't produce more or less heating or cooling based on the room temperature – they simply blow air for longer.
Where does your electricity come from?
It's easy to find out what fuels your power comes from using this nifty tool from the EPA.
Adventures at King Arthur Flour, Part Two
This is part two of my visit to King Arthur Flour, the concluding blog of the four-day event.
The Animal Lover's Dilemma: A Quest for Sustainable Farming Techniques
Elizabeth Van Deventer has been on a quest to find the answer to sustainable farming and an ethical diet most of her life. Follow along as she discovers the impacts of producing tea, palm oil and fruit, and how she eventually settles on a lifestyle that is in tune with the earth and all of its creatures.
Soapstone Masonry Heating Alternative
Tulikivi provides a "green" cost-effective heating solution because it uses less wood to heat the same space than with a traditional wood burner.
It's Easy Being Green
Ford focus electric offers eco-friendly features throughout the vehicle.
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 3: Plug Your Electronics Into Power Strips
Some large electronics can use as much energy as a light bulb while in "stanby" mode, meaning you should unplug them when you leave the house or know you won't use them for awhile. Having a large electronic setup plugged into a power strip makes it much easier to completely power it down, especially if it has a lot of plugs like a home theater system or computer.
30 Steps to Energy Efficiency - Step 4: Turn Down Your Thermostat
There are two situations which do not require you to be heating your home: when it is warm and when you are not at home. Since it is still a bit chilly outside, you may want to consider setting up a routine of turning down the set temperature on your thermostat when you head out in the morning and when you go to bed.
Sweet Sleep
Simran Sethi writes about the importance of eco-friendly mattresses, bed frames, and bedding.
New Photos of Lloyd House's Leaf House
New photos of Lloyd House's Leaf House
You're Gonna Do What?: Committing to a Cross-Country Cycling Tour
Saying 'Yes' to a cross country bicycling trip was easy. After I fully realized what my mouth had done, my brain had second thoughts.
Bring Back the EV1 — Now!
Dan Chiras asks why GM hasn't brought the EV1 back yet.
'The Tao of Vegetable Gardening' by Carol Deppe
The Tao of Vegetable Gardening by groundbreaking garden writer Carol Deppe explores the practical methods as well as the deeper essence of gardening. She focuses on some of the most popular home garden vegetables—tomatoes, green beans, peas, and leafy greens—and through them illustrates the key principles and practices that gardeners need to know to successfully plant and grow just about any food crop.
Key Considerations for Building Affordable Housing
Building housing projects in developing regions is extremely rewarding, but also quite challenging. It's prudent to draw ideas from as many resources as possible to improve the process. The following guidelines have proven effective.
Inspiration for Solar Projects
Scott Davis' "Solar Projects, Big and Small" video offers inspiration for both solar energy enthusiasts and folks who are just curious. Tips and advice pertaining to solar energy can be found at the Yahoo! group Simply Solar, and you can make your dream project a reality with Gary Reysa's instructions.
Reducing Your Waterprint
Simran Sethi discusses easy (and free) ways to reduce your water footprint.
The New Loo
Simran Sethi explains her bathroom-remodel goals to conserve water.
How to Build a Cargo Bike Trailer
Why spend hundreds of dollars on a readymade bicycle cargo trailer when you can build one yourself? Portland Pedalworks keeps the project easy and inexpensive in this how-to video.
LEED Continuing Education Credits through the Evergreen Institute
The Evergreen Institute's application to provide continuing education for LEED accredited professionals has been approved by the U.S. Green Building Council. A variety of workshops meeting required standards are now available for those interested in anything from solar electricity to straw bale construction.
Turn a Clawfoot Tub into a Sofa (Just Like Audrey Hepburn's)
Green is Universal and Etsy's The Art of Reuse Contest is a gold mine for DIY home project ideas. My favorite pays homage to Audrey Hepburn's ahead-of-its-time sofa made from an old clawfoot bathtub in Breakfast at Tiffany's.
USDA Announces Certified Bio-Based Product Label
The U.S. Department of Agriculture says its first certification program for bio-based products will make it easier for consumers to identify biodegradable, renewable, recyclable and environmentally safe products.
Turning Trash Into Affordable Housing
The Phoenix Commotion gives low-income people trade skills and shelter by teaching them to build their own homes--from garbage. You'd be amazed at what can be used to build a house when the desire and commitment exist.
Local Materials, Small Designs and DIY Labor Equals Sustainable and Affordable Housing
What does it take to build truly sustainable houses – the kind people really want and can afford? If you build small and use natural building materials, then most likely you'll be able to build your own home in a reasonable amount of time for cash.
6 Simple Steps to Your Cleanest Windows Ever
Does the huge task of cleaning windows leave you feeling overwhelmed? Follow these six simple steps--using inexpensive materials you already have around the house--to get your windows sparkling and streak-free.
American Vedic: A Pioneering Straw-Clay Home in Iowa
Nearly 20 years ago, Robert Laporte began experimenting with building a house using straw and Iowa's excellent clay. In the process, he discovered what makes a home's soul.
This Valentine's Day, No Kisses for Hershey
Tell America's largest chocolate company that slave labor and Valentine's Day chocolate don't mix.
DIY Electric Car attracts Media Attention
Building my own electric car seems to have caught the attention of the Media. As though getting on the front page of the County paper for a speeding ticket in my electric car wasn't notorious enough, now I'm getting calls from big-shot reporters!
Petroleum Products Preferable to Biodegradable Plastics? Say It Isn't So
A new study has found that biodegradable plastic's rapid rate of decomposition could cause the release of methane, a greenhouse gas. The study's authors suggest that petroleum-based products might be preferable. We need better alternatives than that.
8 Great Micro-Houses
In her new book, Micro-Green: Tiny Houses in Nature, Mimi Zeiger profiles 36 creative, innovative small dwellings that represent a "new, rich architectural typology." Here are eight great examples to start fueling your fantasies.
Book Review: White Bread: A Social History of the Store-Bought Loaf
How many people wonder (pun intended) about industrial white bread? A new book out by Aaron Bobrow-Strain shows that he has. It is a fascinating description of how white bread got to be where it is today politically, economically, and culturally.
Solar Generators: Clean, Portable Power
Conventional generators require gasoline or diesel fuel, which can be expensive -- especially during emergencies. Also, the emissions from gas-powered generators contribute to air pollution. Solar generators are a smart alternative to consider.
Grow and Spin Cotton
Tips for learning to grow and spin cotton.
Australia to Texas - The Land
Our process of buying the land for our homestead had little to do with logic and a lot to do with emotion. For me, it was a chance to return to the plains where I grew up and be close to family.
Campsite Cob Oven Construction
Here is yet another possible building project presented to you which requires no formal training, very little money, and techniques/methods that anyone can use. This blog intends to inspire you to take on a natural building project like this one. Don´t have fear if this is your first time working with these techniques and materials — it often for us also! Swattlesfield Campground is frequented by many kinds of people for various reasons. The owner, Jonathan, wanted to introduce some activity which would draw people together. We had the perfect idea: pizza! Food, especially food that requires waiting, has a tendency to attract people. And once humans have a good reason to be in the same place, the rest (socialization) has a tendency to just work.
Compost: The Trash That Is Really Treasure
Simran Sethi learns how to compost the right way and explores her composting options.
Changing the Context of Transportation
Cuba's bike transformation was the result of a change in context induced by external forces. It was a disruptive event that forced them to adapt. Here in America, a land of such excess, no such sudden disruption looms (nor could it be predicted, I believe). Our transportation context is centered on the car. Our culture and economy are "driven" by the car. So, how do we create a culture of transportation that is dominated by bicycles?
Green Building Materials, Part 1: Shopping at the Habitat for Humanity ReStore
Not all green building materials are fancy, engineered products. One couple explores the saved-from-the-landfill options at local Habitat for Humanity ReStores. Hard to beat preventing waste, supporting Habitat for Humanity's mission, and finding great deals on materials for a new-home construction in one fell swoop.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Window and Door Buck Details
This blog describes some of the details involved in building with insulating concrete forms, notably window and door buck details that you need to take into account
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Foundation Details for Airtight Design
To ensure an airtight design, be sure to level and finish the top of the concrete wall and use sill seal below your bottom plates.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Finishing the Concrete Foundation Walls
The devil is in the details in a net zero energy home. Every single step in the design and construction of a home requires efforts to ensure airtightness. The top of the foundation is one detail that deserves special attention.
A Beautiful Green Backyard Burial
This is a true account of an end of life journey. A beautiful backyard Burial and all the steps that were taken in order to do it. This story is written in two parts, part two will be posted next week.
Living Off the Grid: A Consciousness Extender
When a fire destroyed their home and office near San Luis Obispo, Ken Haggard and Polly Cooper seized the opportunity to build the off-the-grid straw bale home of their dreams. Their comfortable compound now houses two other families as well.
An Energy- and Resource-Efficient Louisiana Home Remodel--For $98 A Square Foot
After a tree crushed the back of their shotgun home (while 40 Hurricane Katrina refugees were camped out there), a Baton Rouge couple rebuilt a green, energy-efficient house that encourages connection with their neighborhood's "front porch" culture.
San Francisco Earthquake Cottage Renovation: Outdoor Rooms and Cozy Spaces
Landscape designer Alma Hecht turned a tiny house into a welcoming home and studio with cozy outdoor "rooms" that extend her living space.
Emancipate Yourself from the Utility
Three-day workshop announcement on net zero energy homes by leading authority on energy efficiency and renewable energy, Dan Chiras. Learn how to reduce your utility bill through conservation, effriciency, & clean, affordable, renewable energy.
Green and Healthy: Shouldn't Our Homes Be Both?
Building homes using dangerous and impactful industrial chemicals--in the name of energy efficiency--is not sustainable or ecological, a green building veteran says. His Health-Based Building model is an important step forward for green design.
Zero-VOC Me
Environmental journalist Simran Sethi goes through the process of rejuvenating her hardwood floors, and describes how to avoid harmful ingredients in cleaning products, such as volatile organic compounds, in the process.
The Dangers of Industrial Farming
As modern farms increase production using monoculture crops, the nutritional value of the harvests diminishes, along with the economic stability and self-reliance of the farmers and their local communities.
Transformation Tuesday: Trash Turned Giftwrap
Forget the time and money that goes into conventional giftwrap. Use these inspirational ideas to wrap lovely gifts with materials otherwise bound for the recycling bin.
Pregnancy Back Pain Reliever: Holy Lamb Organics Body Pillow
An organic cotton and wool body pillow goes a long way to help relieve pregnancy back pain.
Sustainable Neighborhoods and Communities: Initiatives, Certifications, and Developments
An overview of groups, initiatives, planning certifications, and neighborhood developments that promote sustainable communities, including Transition initiatives, ecovillages, One Planet Communities, LEED for Neighborhood Development, and others.
Parallel Chord Pallet Trusses
If you have access to small diameter trees and wood pallets, and live in an area not restricted by building codes, then this truss design is one good low cost roof option. If you do all the work yourself, these trusses are virtually free.
Building My Net Zero Energy Home: Pouring Concrete
Once the ICFs are in place and the walls are very well reinforced, it is time to pour concrete. This blog illustrates the process in words and photos.
Weed & Water Wednesday: 10 Green Gifts for Gardeners — All Under $50
Check out this roundup of 10 favorite sustainable gifts for the gardeners on your list — all under $50!
Toward Perpetual Motion Machines
A 3-part series on sustainable comfort systems for heating and cooling homes using passive solar design, solar electric power, system controllers and newly popular heat pump technology.
The New Loo Part 2
Simran Sethi writes about choosing eco-friendly paints, tiles, and other aspects of her renovated bathroom.
The Final Touches: Bathroom Software
Simran Sethi discusses how to green your bathroom in easy ways: through your choice of toilet paper, shower curtain, and towels.
Dear 2011, This Year I Resolve To. . .
Simran Sethi explores resolutions for healthy eating and offers a resource, The Cleaner Plate Club.
Summer Loving
Simran Sethi looks back at her New Year's resolution: to nourish herself.
Rubble Bag Houses
Concrete rubble from collapsed buildings is a huge problem in Haiti. It is blocking roads and hindering reconstruction. Instead of spending millions of dollars trucking the rubble away and disposing of it, why not use it to build affordable housing?