The PlayGreen Pages

Orcas frolicking in Puget Sound

2012-02-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

SkyKING at King5 News shot this video Friday of orcas swimming between Bainbridge Island and Seattle.

The Lawn Habit That's Killing Your Dog

2012-02-10T13:46:00.000-08:00

A lush lawn creates a sense of pride for many American homeowners, but a new study finds that utilizing a chemical lawn service to achieve those results is likely causing malignant cancer in many pet dogs.

In the study, researchers identified 263 dogs with biopsy-confirmed canine malignant lymphoma (CML), 240 dogs with benign tumors, and 230 dogs undergoing surgeries unrelated to cancer. Then, they asked the pet owners to complete a 10-page questionnaire. Scientists found that dogs with malignant lymphoma were 70 percent more likely to live in a home where professionally applied lawn pesticides had been used. Dogs with the serious malignancy were also 170-more likely to come from homes where owners used chemical insecticides to combat pests inside of the home.

Interesting, this study found that use of flea and tick control products did not appear to cause an increased risk of canine lymphoma.

Humans should take this study as a warning, too. The methods researchers used to determine risk in the dog study are part of a trusted model for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma risk in humans. Other studies have linked lawn chemicals to melanoma and childhood leukemia.

Source:

Abstract of Environmental Health 112(1): 171-6 (Jan. 2012).

From Farm to Table, Via the Web

2012-02-03T14:12:00.000-08:00

Source: Rodale.com

There's a reason farmer's markets are so popular: They provide local food direct from the grower, along with ample opportunity to talk to that grower about how the food was grown, whether any pesticides were used, and how his or her animals are treated. The downside? They shut down when it gets cold—unless you live in an area where winter farmer's markets have taken root.

So where are you supposed to get your local honey or grass-fed beef in winter? According to a recent piece in the Wall Street Journal, just hop online. The past few years have seen the launch of a number of start-ups hoping either to supply local food directly to you or to help you find stores and restaurants in your area that sell it.

Farmigo.com launched late last year and already has 500,000 subscribers who log on and find local farmers and meat producers. Customers can buy food on the site, which is then delivered to a nearby pick-up location, similar to the way a community-supported agriculture (CSA) membership delivery works.

RealTimeFarms.com is another site that maps out farms across the country, as well as shops, farmer's markets, and restaurants that sell those farms' goods. Dig a little deeper, right to the farm level, and you'll find out whether those farms are organic and can learn a little more about their growing practices. It's a slightly slicker version of LocalHarvest.org, a great website that has existed for years, providing people with the same detailed information about local farms, CSAs, farmer's markets, and sustainable restaurants.

Both of these sites launched with the help of monied private investors and were developed by former employees of successful companies like Google and Microsoft, and with the likes of Google behind the local food movement, what more could you ask for? But the idea of virtual farmer's markets is nothing new. Though they might not operate during the winter months, virtual farmer's markets are cropping up nearly as fast as community markets are, and even individual farmers are launching websites where customers can order their produce online and pick it up at the farm or at a local store.

LocallyGrown.net was launched in 2009 by a man in Athens, Georgia, as a way to provide people with all the selection of farmer's markets without the minor inconveniences—having to make it there for the few hours a market is open during the week, provided it fits in with your schedule, and making sure to get there as soon as the market opens in order to get the best selection. Farmers can buy a domain (yourfarm.locallygrown.net) and on their page, provide virtual farm-tour videos and a way for customers to order local goods.

Eggzy.net, another great local-food start-up, launched around the same time. If you have a backyard chicken flock, register with the site, and you can sell your eggs to people in your community on their "virtual egg stand."

Reuse Hangers: DIY Tips For Wire Coat Hangers

2012-02-02T10:23:00.000-08:00

Source: The Huffington Post

If you dry clean your clothes on a regular basis, you know that those ubiquitous wire hangers can really start to stack up.

But rather than haul the hangers to the trash, you can put them to use around the house.

A straightened wire hanger can be used to dislodge hairballs and gunk from a plugged drain. Sure, it's not going to be as effective as a professional tool like a plumber's snake, but it might just do the trick in a pinch and spare you an expensive visit from your local plumber.

Who doesn't love a good campfire? Next time you're gathered around the fire pit or hosting a barbecue, have a few unwound wire hangers on hand to roast marshmallows, kabobs and hot dogs.

Making a room cable-ready usually involves snaking yards of black cord across the floor, creating a tripping hazard that's also downright ugly. A much better, more professional solution is to drill a series of small holes in the wall and snake the cable behind the drywall. Create a small loop on the end of a hanger to hold the cable and use the stiff wire to guide the cable to its destination.

Extend your reach by bending a hook on the end of a straightened out hanger. Next time you lose a set of keys behind a sofa, or something goes skidding beneath the stove, you're all set to reclaim it.

Weak-steamed plants like tomatoes need to be trellised to reach their full height. Weave together a few straightened hangers in a crosshatch pattern to give your plants a boost, or simply affix a few unadulterated hangers to a wooden frame for an even easier option (via veryirie.blogspot.com).

Use the pointed end of a wire hanger to scrape out the wax at the bottom of a candle holder.

Both thieves and klutzes who lock their keys in the car have long relied on hangers to pop the locks and gain entry. While this technique no longer works on most newer model cars, with older autos you can fashion a hook to grab hold of the lock arm and lift to open the door.

Bend the hanger into a loop and use it as the base for a festive holiday wreath.

Running a drawstring through a pair of swim trunks or shorts is slow, frustrating work. But you can speed up the process with a coat hanger. Straighten the hanger out, create a small loop to hold the knotted end of the string, and feed the string and hanger through the waist band together.

Import tariffs drove up the price of wire hangers a few years ago, causing many dry cleaners to ask customers to bring them back. If you'd like to do your part for the planet, while helping out your neighborhood cleaner, offer to return the hangers the next time you visit.

Plant for Pearl Jam!!!!

2012-02-01T11:11:00.000-08:00

Just in case you missed the email last week :)

Pearl Jam is working with a company called Forterra to mitigate 7,000 metric tons of carbon emitted during their 2009 World Tour. There have been 3 clean-ups/restoration projects scheduled and there is one coming up in Redmond on Saturday, 2/25 from 10am-2pm. The area has been previously cleared of invasive species and we will be putting native plants and trees back in the ground. Here are the details from Forterra:

· No experience necessary!
· They’ll provide the gloves, tools and other materials, as well as water and snacks!
· Please bring your own water bottle to re-fill and/or a mug for coffee.
· Wear sturdy shoes, long pants and a long sleeve shirt.
· Ages 7 and up may attend with a parent, otherwise you need to be at least 18 to attend on your own.

Space is limited with this opportunity….there are only 20 spots available! LET’S FILL THEM UP! Please use the voting buttons at the top to let us know you're in!

We’re going to register our team by Friday, 2/3, so please get back to us sooner rather than later.

BRING IT!

http://www.pearljam.com/news/join-forterras-seattle-area-pj-carbon-mitigation-events

NASA Visualization Shows Global Temperature Changes

2012-01-31T10:06:00.000-08:00

source: The Huffington Post

Where did 2011 stand in comparison to global temperatures from past years?

NASA recently released a visualization that depicts global temperature changes since 1880. Although nine of the 10 warmest years on record have occurred since 2000, 2011 was only the ninth warmest year on record, according to NASA.

The world's average temperature in 2011 was 0.92 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than the mid-20th century baseline period of 1951 to 1980, NASA's press release explained.

James E. Hansen, director of NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies in New York, said, "We know the planet is absorbing more energy than it is emitting. So we are continuing to see a trend toward higher temperatures. Even with the cooling effects of a strong La Niña influence and low solar activity for the past several years, 2011 was one of the 10 warmest years on record."

There is some disagreement over 2011's ranking, however. NOAA scientists arrived at the same temperature data, but have ranked 2011 as the 11th warmest year on record.

According to the Associated Press, 2011, which was slightly cooler because of La Niña, was still "hotter than every year last century except 1998."

Tom Karl, director of NOAA's National Climatic Data Center, explained that a cooler year did not mean overall trends of rising temperatures would necessarily change. "It would be premature to make any conclusion that we would see any hiatus of the longer-term warming trend," he said. "Global temperatures are continuing to increase."

Earlier this month, the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists moved the symbolic "Doomsday Clock" one minute closer to midnight. The decision to move the clock to five minutes to midnight reflects, among other things, growing global disruptions due to climate change.

Below, see NASA's visualizations of global temperature differences since 1880. Scroll down for video. Image and video courtesy of NASA.

Interested in Volunteering?

2012-01-26T14:00:00.000-08:00

Sign up for Team Works and you could be spending one Saturday a month making a real difference.

Team Works
Volunteer projects: Sats 2/11, 3/10, 4/14 & 5/12, 10am - 2pm (unless noted)
Kick-off party: Tues 2/7, 7pm
$35 (includes t-shirt, kick-off and thank you events)
A perfect fit if you're looking to volunteer, meet some cool people and have fun all at once! Sign up for Team Works and you'll volunteer once a month with the same group of 15 peers - giving you a chance to get to know each other. Often times, Team Captains plan outside social events for the team too.
Projects are held at four different community organizations, to give you a variety of tasks and issue areas to impact with your volunteer service.
Teams and their volunteer projects:http://www.seattleworks.org/SW_TeamWorks_Teams
Sign up! http://seattleworks.ejoinme.org/teamworks
Can't commit to four projects?
We get it - you're busy! Start out with a Hot Project instead. These are one-time volunteer opportunities that can fit into your busy schedule.
Check out the calendar and sign up when you can:http://www.seattleworks.org/HOC__Volunteer_Opportunity_Calendar_Page

Endangered Animals Caught on Camera!

2012-01-25T15:42:00.000-08:00

From The Huffington Post

With so many endangered animals in the world, one man is using his trade to educate people and make an impact.

Joel Sartore, a National Geographic photographer, has been traveling around the country with his son, Cole, photographing endangered zoo animals.

Joel explained to NPR, "The goal of this project is to get people to look these things in the eye before they go extinct. Not everything I shoot is rare, but a lot is." He estimates that there are 6,000 animal species in zoos and aquarium and he has already photographed almost one third of them.

This month, Joel is visiting several zoos with the hope that he can add at least 25 more species to his project. He explained on his National Geographic blog that photographing animals in front of black or white backgrounds is important to his project. He writes, "This black-and-white background technique gives all species equal weight and importance."

Joel also sees the human connection to endangered species. He writes, "It would be a crime to doom even one of these species to extinction. It may also threaten our very existence. It is folly to think that we can doom everything else to extinction but that we'll be just fine."

Although Joel's work has been titled the "Biodiversity Project," he is looking for help to rename it.According to his blog, the current title "is a mouthful, and he's looking for a catchier name that better conveys what he's trying to do."

Check out National Geographic's Field Test blog to help Joel think of a new name for his project. For more information about the Biodiversity Project and to see more of Joel's photos, visit his website.

Below, check out photos from Joel's project. Scroll down for video.

Damaraland mole rat at the Houston Zoo. This species is one of only two eusocial mammals, with members of colonies all serving specific roles, much like bees.

West Usambara two-horned chameleon (Kinyongia multituberculata) at the Houston Zoo

A Prevost's squirrel (Callosciurus prevostii) named 'Walnut' at the Houston Zoo.

A giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla) at the Sunset Zoo.

Coquerel's sifaka (Propithecus coquereli) at the Houston Zoo.

Blue spiny lizard (Sceloporus serrifer) at the Houston Zoo.

University of Washington Named Greenest College In America

2012-01-23T15:46:00.000-08:00

Thank you Nadine for sending this over!!!

Written by Melissa Hincha-Ownby

Sierra magazine’s fifth annual Cool Schools list is out, and the University of Washington takes the top spot with a score of 81.2. The University of Washington climbed up from number four last year to oust Green Mountain College from the first-place spot.

Sierra magazine recognized several different eco-conscious programs in place at the school including the University of Washington’s green building program. Every new building completed since 2006 has earned a LEED Gold certification from the U.S. Green Building Council. Other green features recognized by Sierra magazine include the use of EnergyStar appliances, the school’s use of renewable energy and a comprehensive campus recycling program.

Poultney, Vermont-based Green Mountain College, last year’s greenest college, came in just behind the University of Washington with a score of 81.1 out of 100. Green programs in place at the school include a renewable energy program courtesy of Central Vermont Cow Power — yes, cow power. The company captures the biogas from cow manure and converts it into usable energy.

The University of California at San Diego (UCSD) earned the number three spot this year, climbing up from number 15 on the Cool Schools 2010 list. UCSD’s generous use of solar energy helped the school snag a top three ranking this year.

While these three colleges should be commended for their eco-friendly commitments, the entire top 10 list deserves recognition.

Sierra’s 2011 Top 10 Coolest Schools:

University of Washington (Seattle, Wash.)
Green Mountain College (Poultney, Vt.)
University of California, San Diego (San Diego, Calif.)
Warren Wilson College (Asheville, N.C.)
Stanford University (Stanford, Calif.)
University of California, Irvine (Irvine, Calif.)
University of California, Santa Cruz (Santa Cruz, Calif.)
University of California, Davis (Davis, Calif.)
Evergreen State College (Olympia, Wash.)
Middlebury College (Middlebury, Vt.)

The 2011 Cool Schools list was created after 118 different schools responded to Sierra magazine’s 12-page eco questionnaire. The survey included questions in 10 different categories, with a maximum of 10 points available in each category: energy supply, efficiency, food, academics, purchasing, transportation, waste management, administration, financial investments and other initiatives.

For more information on the top 10 schools or to see how your alma mater ranked, visit Sierra’s 2011 Coolest Schools information page.

Free Green Friday Deals!

2012-01-13T13:19:00.000-08:00

Choose between a Green Irene Kitchen Cleaner or Lotus Moon Sunscreen

Green Coupon | Green Tip | Green Blog | More Deals | Weekly Deals

Free Friday! Choose a Green Irene Kitchen Cleaner or Lotus Moon Sunscreen
61% off January GreenBox - Over $70 worth of Green Products and Coupons
$52 for $80 Coupon for Organic Skin and Body Care Products from Eve Organics
31% off Case of Organic Chocolate Bars from Angell Candy Bars (Shipping Included)
48% off Keep Calm and Carry-on 2012 Calendar/Planner and Journal Set from ByLeeDesign ($5 Shipping)
Get a Green Valentines Gift from the Green America Gift Guide
Top 10 Green Tips for 2012 - Submitted by GreenDeals Members
Win a 1-Year Worth of Dairy Products from Stonyfield or Organic Valley
Screening of The Happiness Prescription from Deepak Chopra - Sponsored by GaiamTV
2012 Green New Year Resolutions from Mother Jones
12 recommended Green Living books for 2012 from SimpleOrganic.com
Find more coupons from Green Businesses at the National Green Pages
More GreenDeals

30 Story Hotel Completely Built and Finished in Fifteen Days, on New Years Eve (Amazing Video)

2012-01-13T11:11:00.000-08:00

from TreeHugger.com article copied straight from website.

If you do nothing else, watch this video--it really is amazing!! Built Green and super safe!

As an architect, I find this completely amazing. Before the Olympics we showed the Ark Hotel erected in six days, but it had nothing on this 170,000 square foot, 30 story hotel that was turnkeyed in 360 hours. It completely changes the way buildings are constructed and, I believe, is about to change the entire industry.

Broad Sustainable Construction/Video screen capture

I have followed the Broad Corporation for years at TreeHugger, as they became the world's largest producer of air conditioning equipment. This prefabricated building system works much like the Kenner Girder and panel building set of my childhood; completely wired, plumbed, tiled and drywalled prefabricated sections are dropped on top of the columns that come complete with diagonal bracing, and then another column is stuck on top.

Broad Sustainable Construction/Video Screen Capture

Even the floor tiles are put on in the factory.

Broad Sustainable Construction/Video Screen Capture

All of the other components they need for that particular slab, the walls, the interior finishes, are lifted together with the slab, so there is no separate shipping of drywall or studs, everything you need is right there. What a difference this would make in work flow on a construction site.

Broad Sustainable Construction/Video Screen Capture

It really is incredibly clever; because that column stub is built into the slab panel they can just pile panels on top of column instead of trying to fit them in between a structural frame, the more conventional approach. Those diagonal braces give it the strength and rigidity it needs when building with so many shorter pieces.

Broad Sustainable Construction/Video Screen Capture

Wrap the whole thing in a six inch thick prefab skin and you have a building that claimed to be five times more energy efficient. (than what, they don't say). A heat recovery ventilation system delivers what is claimed to be 20 times purer air.

Kenner girder and panel set/Promo image

When I was a kid I used to play with systems like this, but never thought that they would actually become real some day. The implications of this are significant; construction is just about the only industry that has not been exported. But now the Broad Sustainable Building Corporation has designed a system that will let them build anywhere, to construction tolerances of +/- 0.2 mm. The architectural and construction world just changed.

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Your 2nd Fridge is Costing You

2012-01-12T11:30:00.000-08:00

If saving electricity and cleaning out your garage are on your new year's resolutions list, Seattle City Light can help you check off two with our Refrigerator Recycling program.

They'll haul away your old, working refrigerator or freezer for free, and give you $30! Plus you'll have an annual savings of about $150 in electricity costs. Make an appt. today for FREE haul away by calling 206-233-COLD or visiting www.seattle.gov/refrigerator.

You can get info on all of Seattle City Light's residential rebates here.

Thank You Facilities for the New Lighting!!!

2012-01-11T16:35:00.000-08:00

As many of you may have noticed building B and D recently were retro-fitted with all new lighting. This involved removing the T-12 linear fluorescent lamps and magnetic ballasts and installing low wattage 25 Watt T-8 lamps with electronic ballasts.

We are now saving 37,530 KWH and $3,386.00 PER YEAR!

Thank you Lisa for heading this up, greeening up our offices and giving us excellent lighting to work under!

20 Plastic Things You Didn’t Know You Can Recycle

2012-01-10T09:14:00.000-08:00

Thank you Zoe for sending this over!!! Got a great article to share? Send it to playgreen@playnetwork.com!

1) Bottle and jar caps: Weisenbach Recycled Products accepts clean plastic bottlecaps, plastic jar caps, flip-top caps from personal care products, and flexible snap-on lids (e.g. butter tub lids) to turn into funnels and other items. CapsCando.com.

2) Brita pitcher filters: Preserve’s Gimme 5 program accepts Brita-brand pitcher filters for recycling.See #11 below.

3) Compostable bioplastics: Find a municipal composter at FindaComposter.com.

4) Computers and other electronics: Find the most responsible recyclers near you at e-stewards.org/find-a-recycler. Your local Best Buy store will also accept many types of electronics, large and small—from televisions and gaming systems to fans and alarm clocks. Best Buy partners with responsible recyclers that do not ship items overseas, including Green Business Network™ member Electronic Recyclers International. You can bring three small items per day to Best Buy for free. The company charges a fee to recycle large electronics. BestBuy.com/recycling. or you can bring them to work and we'll recycle them for you for FREE!!!

5) Eyeglasses: Your local Lions Club collects them for people in need.

6) Fishing line: Mail to Berkley Recycling, which turns it into fish habitat structures: 1900 18th Street; Spirit Lake, IA 51360.

7) Gift cards and customer loyalty cards: Fill out the form at www.earthworks system.com/Consumers/ to recycle them. (Accepts conventional cards only, not bioplastic/ compostable cards.)

8) Ink Cartridges: RecyclePlace.com pays $1 each and will recycle them. (Also see
#12, “Technotrash.”)

9) Pantyhose/tights: No Nonsense collects all brands of hose, tights, and kneehighs to be recycled into other products. NoNonsense.com/PantyhoseRecycling.aspx.

10) Plastic packaging: Many pack-and-ship stores will take packing peanuts and bubble wrap. For drop-off locations for foam blocks, contact the Alliance of Foam Packaging Recyclers.

11) Polypropylene (#5) plastics (all types): Preserve’s Gimme 5 program accepts all types of clean #5 plastics, which are turned into Preserve personal care and kitchen products. Drop them off in the “Gimme 5” container available at select Whole Foods and food co-ops. Visitpreserveproducts.com/recycling to find a location or learn how to mail them in.

12) “Technotrash”: Organizations and schools can earn money for recycling ink cartridges and small electronics like cell phones and iPods through ProjectKOPEG.com. Recycle a large box of CDs, DVDs, jewel cases, audio and video tapes, small electronics, and ink cartridges for $30 (includes postage) through Green Disk, 800/305-GREENDISK, GreenDisk.com.or you can bring them to work and we'll recycle them for you for FREE!!!

13) Telephones: Call to Protect (donateaphone.com/calltoprotect) refurbishes cell phones for domestic violence victims (see also “Technotrash,” above). Take corded and cordless phones to a local Best Buy for recycling.

14) Sports equipment: Resell or trade it at your local Play It Again Sports outlet, 800/476-9249,www.playitagainsports.com.

15) Tennis balls: reBounces restores old tennis balls that have lost their bounce.
ReBounces.com/recycle.

16) Tennis shoes: NikeReuseAShoe.com turns them into athletic flooring. Souls4Souls.org andOneWorldRunning.com sends still-wearable shoes to runners in need in developing countries.

17) Toys: Domestic Metals and Plastics accepts plastic toys of all types for recycling.Dmpgreen.com.

18) Trophies: Lamb Awards will break your trophies down and remake them into
new ones. E-mail internet at lambawards dot com, and put “recycling” in the subject line.

19) Tyvek envelopes: Quantities less than 25: Send to Tyvek Recycle, Attn. Shirley B. Wright, 8401 Fort Darling Road, Richmond, VA 23237. More than 25: call 866/33-TYVEK.

20) Yoga mats: RecycleYourMat.com accepts yoga mats for recycling.

Welcome BACK Heather Ponder!!!

2012-01-09T11:11:00.000-08:00

Oh I'm so excited to announce Heather Ponder will be returning to PlayGreen! Super exciting! Heather has previously brought lots of fresh new fun ideas to our little team and I'm sure this time around will be no different!

WELCOME HEATHER!!!

Welcome Erica Tawney!!!

2012-01-06T11:39:00.000-08:00

Erica first approached PlayGreen a few months ago with this crazy composting idea and we loved it and her so we asked her to step in and join us!

She did and we are so excited to have her on the team! Big plans are brewing....

WELCOME ERICA!!!!

2012 Green Goals: 12 Things You Must Do In The New Year

2012-01-05T14:52:00.000-08:00

Article submitted by: Juan Rosales
Copied from Huffington Post

Year after year, losing weight and quitting smoking top most New Year's resolution lists.
But as we leave 2011 behind, a year that was filled with extreme weather and further disturbing evidence of human-induced climate change, why not add some green goals to your resolution list this January? Earth911.com offers a list of 12 green things that must be done in 2012. Check out what you can do this year to reduce your environmental impact, and click here to offer your own green resolution.
Tips and captions courtesy of Amanda Wills from Earth 911.

1. Replace single-use batteries in your camera with rechargeables

Over the holidays, you may have noticed that your camera eats up battery life faster than Takeru Kobayashi chows down 10 hot dogs. You can save a lot of energy (and money) by making the switch to rechargeable batteries. Sure, the upfront cost will be higher, but it will pay for itself in just three photo-worthy events.
READ: Single-use vs. Rechargeable Batteries
Photo courtesy of Flickr: poppydean

2. Make the switch to CFLs or LEDs already

While the actual details of the "light bulb ban" are still up in the air, there's no question that switching out your incandescent light bulb for a CFL (compact fluorescent lamp) or the even more efficient LED (light-emitting diode) will save energy and a ton of money for you in the long run. Incandescents turn just 2-10 percent of the energy they use into useful light, releasing the rest as waste heat. However, a CFL will save about $30 over its lifetime; pays for itself in about 6 months and lasts about 10 times longer than an incandescent. Seventy-four percent of Americans have already made the switch, so go ahead and jump on the bandwagon.
READ: Yes, You Pay More for CFLs, But Are They Worth It?

3. Replace one grocery item with a local or organic option

With the sagging economy, we know most people won't be starting 2012 with extra cash in the checking account. Don't get us wrong, eating all organic and local is ideal, but it's simply not feasible for a lot of us. Instead, chose one staple food that you purchase weekly and replace it with a local or organic option. Not sure where to start? Check out the list of the dirty dozen food items that you should buy organic. SEE: Your Guide to Local Winter Produce
Photo courtesy of Flickr:Wonderlane

4. Install a programmable thermostat

This is a great time to take advantage of the after-Christmas deals at that big-box chain retailer. Buying a programmable thermostat can save you some serious cash on your energy bills because it's a smarter way to heat your home. If used properly, programmable thermostats can save you up to $180 per year in energy costs, according to the EPA. Set the temperature to about 60 degrees during the work day and program the thermostat to reach your desired temperature about an hour before you get home.
READ: Home Weatherizing Tips for Renters and Owners

5. Go vegetarian for just one meal this week

Vegetarian Weeks were all the rage in 2011, but you don't have to cut out meat for seven days to make a difference. The average American consumes around 250 pounds of meat a year. Eating one vegetarian meal per week will save about 35 pounds of meat a year - that's 84,000 gallons of water, 245 pounds of grain and 15.5 gallons of gasoline.
SEE: 5 Low-Waste, Skinny Waste Vegetarian Recipes
Photo courtesy of Flickr:Hanataro

6. Download Earth911′s iRecycle app for iPhone or Android

Yes, we're tooting our own horn a bit, but the iRecycle app is a must-have for 2012. iRecycle can tell you how, where and when to recycle just about anything. Using your current location, ZIP code, address or city, get access to vital details for collection points, such as website, phone number, directions, hours of operation and other materials collected. It's also great for reading the latest news on living a green, healthy life. The best part is that it is completely free!
DOWNLOAD: iRecycle for iPhone and Android
Photo courtesy of Flickr:kennymatic

7. Clean out your garage of hazardous waste

Now that you have the iRecycle app (yes, we know you stopped reading this just to download it), put it to good use! Clear out some space in the garage or basement by finally getting rid of old paint cans, motor oil containers and other household hazardous waste (HHW). Hey, you actually can fit two cars in your two-car garage.
READ: Tips for Cleaning Out Your Garage
Photo courtesy of Flickr:Audin

8. Start just one DIY reuse project

If you're a regular reader of Earth911, you know we love cool reuse projects for the novice DIYer. From magazines and board games, to sports jerseys and food packaging, there is surely an activity to whet your appetite for some final creative exercise for the end of the year.
SEE: Reuse Ideas for Leftover Holiday Cards, Gift Wrap
Photo courtesy of Flickr:faungg

9. Shop for the materials to start your compost

2012 is your year. Stop procrastinating and make composting your New Year's resolution. Lucky for you, we're not asking that you get the whole thing started before Sunday. Instead, take it one step at a time and gather the items that you will need to get it going in January. The most important purchase you'll make for this project is your bin. Figure out where you want to place your compost first, then plan your bin accordingly. Use a covered or automatic bin for a compost in the garage or kitchen. For piles in the yard, an outdoor bin is your best bet. You'll also need a tarp to keep it covered in the winter. After that, start collecting your scraps! Here's what you can throw in the pile.
SEE: Guide to Composting in the Winter
Photo courtesy of Flickr:SuperFantastic

10. Learn how to hypermile for your commute to work

In 2009, we learned all about the concept of hypermiling, and it does make a difference even if you don't own a hybrid car. Hypermiling is simply making skillful changes in the way you drive so as to conserve fuel. You can get 35 percent better fuel mileage out of your current vehicle, no new purchase necessary. (Psst, if you don't own a car, see Tip #11.)
READ: Tips on Hypermiling
Photo courtesy of Flickr:dennis

11. Learn the public transportation routes in your city

For urbanites, owning a car (or driving your car everywhere) isn't really necessary. Take your weekend to study the bus or subway routes in your city. Getting to work without using your car or hopping in a cab may be easier than you think. Even better, learn the route to your New Year's Eve party - no designated driver necessary! If you live in one of the major cities in the U.S., HopStop is a handy tool to get you started.
READ: How to Carpool Anywhere for the Holidays
Photo courtesy of Flickr:Cem K. (iyiinsan)

12. Make a green resolution for the new year

Quitting cigarettes, losing weight and eating healthier should top your list of resolutions, but set some time aside to think about how you can make a difference for the environment in 2012. Over the past 12 months, we've written about some incredible people who have done great things for their local communities. So, browse our archives for inspiration and copy some of their genius ideas. Have a Happy New Year!

Last Minute Shopper?

2011-12-20T11:35:00.000-08:00

Are you facing the holiday shopping crunch? Searching high and low for great gift ideas?

There are several environmental groups offering amazing deals on their products and services. The Environmental Working Group is one of them and they have a special link to Amazon, that will allow you to do all the shopping you want, buy whatever you want, and a portion of your purchase is donated back to EWG from Amazon. Click the picture to the right (or HERE) to get that great deal!

Defenders of Wildlife are offering a Wolf Adoption (or 28 other endangered animals of your choice!) for $15! Each adoption comes with a cozy stuffed animal, a personalized certificate, and a photo & fact sheet. The link is HERE. There are many good reasons to adopt an animal: it keeps them protected, it's a great gift and it teaches us all more about the animal kingdom.

The WWF also has animal adoptions available HERE.

All that said...the greenest gift you could ever give, and probably the most caring, is your time. If that's volunteering at a local shelter of any kind or just giving time to your family it is always the gift that keeps giving.

Are You Storing Paint Properly?

2011-12-19T13:56:00.000-08:00

Thank you Julie Simms for sharing this with us!

VOCs can emanate from cans of partially used paint. That doesn't mean that you have to throw the paint away though. Use this simple procedure to store paint and not only will it not give off VOCs, it will last for years:

When you're done with the paint, put the lid on tightly and then turn the can upside down on a several layers of newspaper. The newspaper is necessary just in case the lid leaks. Then, after several days, turn the can right side up and store it in a cool place. By doing this, the paint will seal the lid. By the way, don't forget to turn the can back over or you will really have a mess the next time you open it.

Physical Book vs E-Book: Where do you weigh in?

2011-12-16T10:10:00.000-08:00

Having a room like this in my house would be a dream come true!

For a few years now I have known people with Kindle's and now the Barnes and Noble Nook Book. And I keep saying "it's just not the same, and not even close." I came across this article and find that I relate to it in many ways. First I am the crazy aunt that always buys books for my nieces and nephew (and I'm okay with that!) and second: I think real books are King. I love the weight of the book, the feel and smell of the pages, the comfort of the way it fits in my hands or on my lap while I'm snuggled up in a blanket and a cup of warm coffee.

I know e-books are greener and better for the environment; but I can't make the transition. I do love the idea that you can hold dozens or even hundreds of books in one little piece of equipment (as I am also a major collector of books). Equally I love the way my books look all lined up on my bookshelves. Many of those books carry amazing memories with them as well. Seeing them sitting there watching me reminds me of those great times.

I have tried reading books on my ipad a few times and just couldn't get into it. I purposely tried reading books I already loved and could read over and over again so I couldn't blame the "bad experience" on the possibility of a bad book. I want to love it because it is in line with so many of my values (green, holds lots, etc), but I just can't make it work.

Where do you weigh in on this issue? and why?

Recycling rate reaches 49 percent in Washington

2011-12-15T10:04:00.000-08:00

The Washington Ecology Department says the recycling rate reached 49 percent in 2010 in the state, up from 45 percent in 2009.

About 4.3 million tons of the 8.9 million tons of municipal waste was recycled.

The department's Gretchen Newman says while recycling is up, the overall amount of waste disposal was down about 1 percent.

She says part of the reason may be a slow economy making people more thrifty and less wasteful.

Way to Go PlayNetwork Employees! We all contribute to this awesome statistic!

2011-12-14T11:08:00.000-08:00

From the Solid Waste Division at King County Some quick and easy tips to get you through your Holiday Shopping!

Draw names for family giving so everyone just gives one person a gift instead of buying for everyone. Nearly every family who switches to this method loves it!

Pick a friend who you know will be receptive, and agree not to exchange gifts. Go out for dinner or drinks instead.

If your spouse or partner agrees (very important!), give each other practical gifts you would have bought anyway, such as tools, kitchen stuff or a laptop computer.

“Experience gifts” cut waste. If you can find businesses and organizations that offer gift certificates or tickets at a discount – for restaurant meals, massages, plays, concerts, sports events and more – you can also save money. It never hurts to ask – maybe they will give you a 10 or 20 percent discount. One great example of a discounted experience gift: A three-day pass to the annual Bumbershoot festival in Seattle is $60 purchased far in advance, instead of $150 to purchase tickets each day.

When a friend or family member says they “don’t want any more stuff,” take them seriously.

If you're not sure what to give someone, gift cards can be a greener gift rather than just taking a wild guess at what they want. The recipient gets exactly what they desire, which usually reduces waste.

If you know the recipient is okay with it, shop thrift stores (external) or consignment shops. You can often find more distinctive gifts and get more for your money.

Offer your time or skills. Make your own gift certificates for a special dinner, or to help around the house or in the garden.

Volunteer (external) in someone’s name, instead of giving a material gift.

Donate (external) in someone’s name.

Consider the long-term environmental effects of gifts, such as appliances or electronics. When you do give those items, choose energy-efficient Energy Star-certified products (external).

Do the recipient and the planet a favor and choose well-made, durable gifts.

Plants make green, low-waste gifts, but choose sturdy plants that you know the recipient will be able to care for.

Make a family history by recording interviews of elderly family members or putting together a scrap book of old pictures.

Before giving cookies or candy as gifts or treats, make sure the recipients want them. Research shows that 20 percent of all candy gets tossed out uneaten.

Use reusable storage containers or tins for your homemade items.

Food gifts are great for reducing waste, since people need to eat anyway. Pick foods the recipient will like; avoid the items that are so exotic they will just sit in the cupboard for years.

Local farmers markets are great places to find food gifts. Several markets are open through December, including Ballard, Broadway, University District, Vashon and West Seattle.

Green Get Away to Long Beach, WA (for $96/night!)

2011-12-13T11:17:00.000-08:00

Groupon sent over this amazing deal!!! It expires in 6 Days so HURRY!!!! As many of you know I make a yearly trek to Long Beach and once upon a time this hotel was a scary uber cheap place to stay! It has since been totally remodeled and I cant wait to head back to the beach and stay here!

Modern Oceanfront Hotel with Local, Sustainable Ethic

Masses of gnarled driftwood typically wash up along the shore of the Long Beach Peninsula, each hunk bleached by salt and smoothed by waves. Nearby, Adrift Hotel and Spa rises from the southern tip of the oceanfront boardwalk, appearing as if it might’ve just lazily washed up on the beach before deciding to stop and permanently admire the view. But when viewed up close, to the attention to detail can clearly be seen at the hotel, with recently renovated, eco-friendly décor that highlights the beauty of natural and reclaimed objects. In the lobby, rough-hewn wooden crates reassemble into shelves and coffee tables, and dangling energy-efficient light bulbs lend an industrial-chic vibe.

Sustainability is more than just a design concept here: the hotel stocks complimentary beach cruiser bikes and relies on various green and local products, including the goodies in the included welcome package. Among the locavore offerings inside are vegan truffles in varieties such as espresso and salted caramel as well as regional beverages such as an 8.8% ABV black stout or a full-bodied red wine. In accommodations such as the basic single queen room, unpolished wood furnishings and black-and-white landscape prints continue the modern, minimalist aesthetic.

In the evening, a four-course prix fixe dinner at The Depot Restaurant (included in some deal packages) lays out a sampling of award-winning fare, such as chowder made from prized local razor clams, and is set amid a repurposed former train station. The next morning, instead of flossing with celery strings, cultivate a healthy regimen with the breakfast basket, which arranges scones, fresh fruit, and organic yogurt in a convenient package so it can be toted along to nearby sand dunes for a sunrise picnic.

Long Beach, Washington: Historical, Family-Friendly Pacific Coast

The winter months form the quiet season of Long Beach Peninsula. Although it's chilly—average temperatures are in the 40s—crowds gather for a number of government-approved recreational clamming dates, taking to slick seaside sands to dig for fresh razor clams. Outside of clamming season, gallivanters can trawl the shoreline for gleaming oyster shells and pearl necklaces from a retired mermaid’s estate sale. Come spring, warmer weather brings out swarms of colorful kites, a favorite local pastime documented at the nearbyWorld Kite Museum.

In 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition came to the area at the end of a transcontinental adventure; with the sight of the ocean, Clark noted in his journal that there was a "Great joy in camp." Today, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center overlooks the same vista from a 200-foot cliff, accompanied by interpretive panels, films, and reprinted sketches from the expedition itself.

This Starbucks cafe is made from shipping containers

2011-12-12T12:34:00.000-08:00

Thank you to Nadine for sharing!!! From the Seattle PI

We already suspected the Starbucks of the future might be serving a whole lot of juice. Now, it looks like tomorrow’s Starbucks cafes might be rectangular and metal — and look suspiciously like shipping containers.

Did someone say “juice box”?

Earlier this week, a construction crew on East Marginal Way in Tukwila was assembling what look like several cargo-style containers stacked on top of each other. The containers are painted shades of brown and feature a drive-thru window on one side.

A font familiar to Starbucks customers covers the side of one container: “Regenerate, Reuse, Recycle, Renew, Reclaim.” (You get the idea. Lots of environmentally friendly “R” words.)

The construction crew working at the site Monday told seattlepi.com photographer Joshua Trujillo they were building an eco-friendly drive-thru for Starbucks. See what it looks like below.

A Starbucks made from shipping containers on East Marginal Way in Tukwila. (Joshua Trujillo/seattlepi.com)

Shipping containers have made a splash on the sustainable design scene lately, with one developer launching a 7,200-square-foot cargo-based project in Georgetown just miles away from the drive-thru Starbucks.

Calls to Starbucks seeking confirmation of the project were not returned this week. But the city of Tukwila issued a building permit to the Seattle company on Nov. 4 for the same piece of property, citing an address on a side street just off East Marginal Way South.

The intended development purpose: A “new drive thru/walk-up building for Starbucks Coffee Company.”

The company also posted a job listing for a shift supervisor at the new drive-thru.

Starbucks recently detailed an initiative to make greener buildings, including eco-friendly staples such as incorporating discarded and post-industrial materials into design. It’s not clear if other shipping-container Starbucks have debuted quietly in other locations, or if the company plans to replicate the design.

want more pictures of the new Starbucks?? CLICK HERE!

It’s official: Tolling on SR 520 bridge starts Dec. 29

2011-12-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

From our friends at Commute Seattle:

Set up a Good To Go! account to get the best toll rate

The countdown is on for drivers who use State Route 520. Starting Dec. 29, drivers will pay an electronic toll to cross the bridge and the Washington State Department of Transportation is urging travelers to get ready by setting up a Good To Go! account.

The toll system’s components have been tested and retested since summer to ensure they can collect data at highway speeds and create transactions for the more than 100,000 vehicles that cross the bridge daily. WSDOT also brought in national tolling experts to review the system, and expanded its customer service support.

To prepare for the anticipated high volumes of customers registering and activating accounts this month, WSDOT has extended call center hours and hired extra customer service staff. Customers can purchase the popular sticker passes at Costco, Safeway, Fred Meyer and QFC and activate them online.

How to get ready:

Get your pass, install and activate it before tolling starts
Make sure all account information is up to date, including credit card or bank information
Make sure license plate(s) are correctly listed on your account

Where to get a pass and open an account:

Buy any of the five pass options online at www.wsdot.wa.gov/goodtogo

Purchase the popular $5 sticker pass at participating stores: Costco, Safeway, Fred Meyer and QFC. Visit http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/goodtogo/retail for a list of retail locations

Visit a full service customer service center or a mobile customer service station. Find locations and hours online at http://wsdot.wa.gov/GoodToGo/contacts.htm

About Tolling on the SR 520 bridge

Tolling on SR 520 is expected to raise $1 billion overall toward the $4.65 billion SR 520 bridge replacement and HOV program, which builds 12.8 miles of safety and mobility improvements from Interstate 5 in Seattle to SR 202 in Redmond. The existing SR 520 floating bridge opened to traffic in 1963, and is vulnerable to sinking during a severe storm after weathering decades of wind and waves. The new bridge will better withstand storms and move more people across the lake with a new transit/HOV lane for buses and carpools in each direction. The target date to open the new bridge to traffic is December 2014.