As I’m taking 10 glorious days to rejuvenate from my normally hectic schedule, I can’t escape my green observations & habits. Being green is a part of my lifestyle, and I have “green guilt” if I knowingly do something un-green… Whether I’m on the beach, in our beachhouse, or going for a run. In the past few days, I’ve learned some lessons from my new-found friends in Avalon, NJ, I’d like to share:
Many of us are gearing up for the long holiday weekend away. So it seems like a good time to review how we can put our best green effort forward when away from home, where it’s often more challenging to do so.
Whether you’re hitting the beach, camping or visiting old friends, it’s easy to let go of your good green habits when you have a change of scenery. Just like our eating & drinking habits change on vacation, so can our eco-friendly intentions.
Here’s some things to keep in mind to lessen your carbon footprint this weekend or whenever you’re away from home:
With labor day coming up soon, many of you will be vacationing on the beach for one last hurrah. Make sure to pick up any trash or recyclables that you may have with you (or from nearby beachgoers) in the proper bin.
When filling up your car with that black gold, don’t keep filling once the pump stops. The gasoline can go right back into the station’s pump , and the more harmful vapors settle at the top of your tank - leaking more pollutants into the air. For a more detailed explanation, check out the EPA’s site. Posted by Julie
Most people are unsure how much energy their household actually uses. Schedule an energy audit to learn more about your energy habits. Chances are you’ll be motivated to make changes to lessen energy consumption & cut costs. Many utility companies perform energy audits at little or no charge. Posted by Beth
The Bush Administration has been deemed the worst environmental cabinet. Lucky for us, we have less than 100 days until Election Day. Bush’s latest proposal (whatever happened to the “Lame Duck” role?) is attempting to weaken the Endangered Species Act (ESA) that protects endangered species and habitats.
The proposed changes include cutting out wildlife experts who protect (often endangered) wildlife during construction or change to natural land & natural habitats. (This proposed step would be similar to the government issuing new drugs on the market, but taking out the pharmacists from testing.)
Like many women (and some dudes), I make a decent amount of hair, cosmetic and skincare purchases. I try to choose products that are made from recycled goods or from natural ingredients.
It can be difficult to make the ‘green choice’ when staring at seemingly endless options at the store. But if you familiarize yourself with some of the greener cosmetic companies, you’ll find there’s a good array of affordable, environmentally conscious selections out there.
Here’s the rundown on a few of my favorite eco-friendly cosmetic lines:
Turn off the water when you lather those tresses or shave in the shower. You may test your roommate’s patience, but you can save 2 gallons per minute. Posted by Julie
Rather than use your company’s disposable coffee cups, plates and utensils, bring in a reusable glass or plastic dishware set from home. You’ll save plastic from being thrown away, use nicer platewares and avoid being the person stuck without a knife! You could even use your own dishware when your company gives out free food in lieu of plastic & paper [...]
Here’s your opportunity to bike through the city with no traffic!
Bicyclists of all skill levels are welcome to participate in the Commerce Bank Bike Philly ride September 14, 2008.
Green Philly Blog
What Readers Are Saying
- Julie on Half-Assed Recipe: “Feef” Stroganoff (aka Fake Beef)
- Gardentina on Half-Assed Recipe: “Feef” Stroganoff (aka Fake Beef)
- Main Line Chamber of Commerce Awards Law Firm Green Makeover : Find out What all The Fuss is About at February 21st Public Event on Friday Quickie: Energy Assessment
- Julie on Shit Green People Say – a Green Philly Blog Film
- thelma on Shit Green People Say – a Green Philly Blog Film
Archives
Sponsors
