Green Week

The popular television network NBC has declared the week of November 15th “Green Week.” From environmental themed shows to public service announcements on how to be more sustainable, NBC spent last week trying to inform the public and make a difference. PSAs “The more you know” has long been the catchphrase for NBC’s public service announcements, but last week’s programming was peppered with many more announcements than usual. These announcements are in place to educate people on sustainable tips, ranging from using reusable shopping bags to conserving water. These announcements are made by actors from many of the different NBC shows. One interesting tactic that NBC has taken is to post the PSAs from this year’s Green Week online, as well as those from Green Weeks in 2008 and 2007. Check out their website to see all of these sustainable messages. Green Tips In addition to their on-air sustainability tips, NBC.com offers a variety of insight on green living. While some of the information they offer overlaps with topics that The Green Connoisseur has already discussed, they have a very convenient short list of important green tips, such as shopping at a farmer’s market, which is always a great thing to review. Programming The commitment to a green theme was taken so seriously this year that most of the shows airing on NBC has sustainability related messages. The late-night commentary made green jokes while some sitcoms included their own “Green Week” within the show. Al Gore was involved and there was even a green wedding featured on a soap opera! This week is to be coupled with NBC’s commitment to green programming during Earth Week in April to offer two weeks worth of environmental commitment a year. While for us green connoisseurs, every week might be green week, NBC has used their great power to educate and encourage sustainable behavior for their viewers. Image credit: recycled PeRspective, NBC, GLiving

Greening Your Spring Cleaning

Spring is just around the corner.  It's time to start pulling out the tee shirts and putting away the sweaters, which means - it's time for spring cleaning!  Before contributing to the mass of junk destined for landfill eternity or increasing the chemicals and toxins in your home, plan to go green with your spring cleaning and improve the health of your family as well as the planet's.

From scrubbing to decluttering, the methods you use to clean can have a big impact on the earth.  These green cleaning tips will benefit you, your family, and the planet - and will probably save some time, as well as money!

• Recycled rags - Trade in paper towels and disposable cleaning wipes for old tees, retired sheets, and other items that would otherwise head for the curb as garbage.  Not only will you reduce your waste, you'll save a few trees as well.
• Natural cleaners - Instead of taking a chance on the latest green cleaning solution, take advantage of the things you already have at home.  Oranges and lemons have a variety of cleaning uses and smell great; vinegar is even more useful; and baking soda delivers its share of cleaning power as well - all with no toxins, chemicals, or harmful fumes.
• Reduce, reuse, and recycle - Before throwing out your clutter, take the time to separate anything that could have a better ending.  Spring cleaning is the perfect time to start a household recycling program if you haven't already.  It's also a great opportunity to look at ways you can reduce waste in the future.  Donate anything still in usable condition to save it from the landfill.
• Deep clean and save energy - Filters, drains, pipes, and electrical components accumulate dust and dirt that can hinder their performance.  Pull out the fridge and clean off the coils, check dryer and heating vents, and pay special attention to appliances and electronics that could use a bit of extra cleaning to optimize their performance.
• Breathe - Finish your green spring cleaning ritual by adopting a few new houseplants.  Peace lilies and rubber plants are easy to care for and help to naturally clean the air within your home. 

Tell us about your favorite natural cleaners and share your best green spring cleaning tips in the comments!  

Recycled art 'Miss No Housework' image by urbanwoodswalker via Flickr.

Green Resolutions for 2009

Happy New Year; it's time to break out the organic champagne!  Looking for a way to go greener in the coming months?  Here are a few resolutions to consider:

1. Eat local.  Join the movement popularized by books such as The Omnivore's Dilemma and Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, and do what you can to buy and eat local foods.  Eating locally also means eating seasonally, since the produce of any region varies throughout the year.  For some help planning menus, check out the cookbook Simply in Season, (although even better resources are probably available in your own area). 

2. Offset your carbon emissions.  Use a carbon emission calculator like this one to calculate the yearly emissions of your family or business, then purchase offsets from a reputable seller such as Native Energy.  Offset companies should use your funds to clean up environmental problems or create alternative sources of energy.

 

3. Replace your light bulbs with LEDs.  These super-efficient bulbs fit in normal fixtures, consume a negligible amount of electricity, and should last over a decade with normal use.

4. Freecycle.  When you do your spring cleaning, what happens to things you don't need anymore?  If you don't donate them already, consider using Freecycle to find them new homes.  Freecycle helps connect people with used items they need, reducing the demand for new products.  

5. Go for a year (or more) of zero waste.  It sounds almost impossible, but pioneers like No Impact Man have shown us that it can be done, even if you have a family and live in New York City!  If that's a little too extreme, do what you can to reduce, recycle, reuse, and compost your way through the new year.

creative commons image by Gaetan Lee