Talented Colombians and Bolivians turn orange peels (shown left), ordinarily a waste product, into artistic creations. What started out as a hobby has expanded a business, and has engaged many other members of the community. These women help supply orange peels and produce these Christmas decorations and boxes. They're earning a fair wage to help their families, and the money is often spent on the education of their children.It's a cute and clever use of waste items, plus the items look unique too, making them a cool conversation piece at your holiday parties. Some of the items, like the angels, the garland, and the star ornaments, look like they can be used year-round too, not just during Christmas.
I love pasta, and consider myself a one-trick pony in the kitchen because pasta-based dishes are basically the only things I can whip up. I know that cooking pasta can use up a lot of water and energy though. But really, is there another way to cook pasta in an eco-friendly way? Figuring out which plastics you can recycle is often confusing. It's generally well known that most curbside programs only take plastics labeled #1 and #2 on the bottom, but many people are shocked to hear that shape sometimes plays a role. For example, many communities don't accept tubs (mouth wider than base), but will take bottles (base wider than mouth) even if the numbers are the same because these plastics are manufactured differently, says Darby Hoover of the Natural Resources Defense Council.
From Environment New York:
Change is in the air.
After a long election season and months of headlines about our failing economy, I for one am ready for a big change.
As you know, we endorsed President-elect Barack Obama in his run for the White House because his environmental record indicated he could be the change we need to see on energy, global warming and so many other environmental issues.
In a speech to governors earlier this week, he called for more investment and support for clean energy solutions for America. He said:
"When I am President, any governor who's willing to promote clean energy will have a partner in the White House. Any company that's willing to invest in clean energy will have an ally in Washington."
Will you join with us to show President-elect Obama that we support his efforts to repower America?
From the big cities of the coasts to the industrial heartland to our rural communities, the slumping economy is taking its toll.
We need to rebuild our economy on a sound foundation -- one that ends our dependence on oil, puts people back to work, contributes to long-term prosperity, rebuilds our communities and addresses global warming.
Clean energy is the way to do it. Nationwide, we have the technology, the tools, and the know-how to use energy more wisely and to get more of our energy from clean, renewable sources.
What's more, clean energy can be produced right here at home, freeing us from foreign sources of energy and creating new jobs in all sectors of the nation's economy -- after all, installing solar panels on your roof isn't a job that can be shipped overseas.
But in order to see the change we need to repower our country with clean energy, we need to get started now -- even before the president-elect takes office, so that starting on day one of the new administration and new Congress, we can hit the ground running and start seeing the benefits of a clean energy economy.
Tell President-elect Obama that you support his efforts to repower America. And forward this message to friends so that he knows that Americans support him in fixing our economy with clean energy.
To start creating green jobs and new economic opportunities, we need to act boldly -- and fast. With a strong policy commitment to clean energy and the investment to match, we can do it. It starts with you.
Click HERE to sign the petition.
StalkMarket sells eco-friendly disposable, biodegradable and compostable tableware, flatware and food packaging. Those in the food industry, pay attention. Finally, here's a product that will lessen the environmental waste you generate."Q: How long will it take StalkMarket products to break down?
"A: There are several variables that can influence how long it takes for our products to decompose when composted. Heat and moisture are two of the most significant. On average, the StalkMarket sugar cane fiber products break down in 6 or 7 weeks. Our biopolymer products normally break down in 12 to 18 weeks. Tearing or breaking the products before placing them in the composter will speed the process."
"NBC Universal encourages viewers and fans to Go Green with green-themed programming across all of its channels and affiliates aimed at entertaining, informing and empowering Americans to lead greener lives."
If fur coats still seem at odds with an eco-conscious mindset, Imai points out that investment pieces like fur are passed down from generation to generation, and get plenty of use. Throw in a little recycled polyester, and one can now have their cake and eat it, too.
. It is a portable wireless reading device where you can download books, newspapers and magazines. Saturday November 29th 2008 is Buy Nothing Day - it's a day where you challenge yourself, your family and friends to switch off from shopping and tune into life. Celebrated as a holiday by some, a street party by others - anyone can take part provided they spend a day without spending!
The challenge easy - try simple living for a day. Spend time with family and friends, rather than spend money on them. It may sound boring and cliche, but love is one thing money can't buy.
Buy Nothing Day also exposes the environmental and ethical consequences of consumerism. The developed countries - only 20% of the world population are consuming over 80% of the earth's natural resources, causing a disproportionate level of environmental damage and unfair distribution of wealth.
As consumers we need to question the products we buy and challenge the companies who produce them. What are the true risks to the environment and developing countries? It's our responsibility to look for simple solutions and Buy Nothing Day is a good place to start.
We want people to make a commitment to consuming less, recycling more and challenging corporations to clean up and be fair. Modern consumerism might offer great choice, but this shouldn't be at the cost of the environment or developing countries. Buy Nothing Day isn't about changing your lifestyle for just one day - we hope it will be a lasting relationship - maybe a life changing experience.
If you want to leave your comments, share any leafy green news, or want us to review your products, drop us a line at greenunlimited101[at]gmail.com!
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