JZ Go Green

Simple, everyday conservation acts to help save the environment

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sat, 2 Apr 2011 09:30:00 -0400

(ARA) - The "going green" trend is going strong as more Americans discover that doing their part for the environment is now simpler than ever. Many small, everyday acts can help the environment - things as simple as using a water purifier instead of buying bottled water or switching to concentrated laundry detergents.

Procter & Gamble's environmental education program, Future Friendly, offers these helpful hints for changes that can benefit the environment and, in many cases, your pocketbook.

Cleaning up your act

Doing a load of laundry seems like an innocent enough chore, right? Actually, our laundry habits can consume a lot of resources, from using more detergent than necessary to using energy to heat the wash water. Fortunately, greening your practices in the laundry room can be simple.

* Follow on-package dosing instructions - A third of Americans simply guess how much detergent to add to their laundry, with many just filling the cap or scoop to the brim, according to a recent Ipsos survey. In fact, 59 percent of those polled said they learned to do laundry from their mother, and 43 percent have never changed their laundry habits because they've never seen a reason to. It's important to follow the recommended dosing instructions which are generally marked on the cap or scoop.

* Use concentrated detergent - Concentrated powder versions of Tide and Gain are now available, enabling you to use less detergent per load with the same great results. This concentrated formula means the detergents' packaging has been reduced, creating less waste to toss in the trash or recycling bin.

* Wash in cold water - Most of the energy consumed in a typical load of laundry is used to heat the water, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Switching to cold water for every load can yield significant energy savings and, when using specially formulated products, you won't have to trade-off product performance to realize the environmental benefits.

Water, water everywhere

Water is a precious commodity that needs to be protected to ensure the health of the planet and our communities. Consider these water conservation tips as you go about your daily activities:

* Use a water purifier - While bottled water is a convenient aspect of modern life, the downside is the disposal of all those empty plastic bottles. When you compare the annual capacity and average price of a faucet-mount water filter to the price of water bottles that would hold the same amount of water, switching your household to a water purifier such as those available from Pur could keep more than 1,000 bottles out of the landfill and save around $600 a year.

* Skip pre-washing your dishes - Pre-washing dishes before placing them in the dishwasher can consume up to 20 gallons of water, according to EnergyStar.gov. If you use a good quality "complete" dishwasher detergent such as Cascade Complete, all you need to do is scrape off large food particles then place the dirty dishes in the washer - and you'll save around 2,600 gallons of water a year (based on 12.5 gallons of water used to pretreat, at four loads per week). EnergyStar also recommends running the dishwasher only when it's full and skipping the heat drying cycle.

Seeing green through new energy efficient windows

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 10:30:00 -0400

(ARA) - Now that spring is here, many homeowners are thinking about remodeling projects that will improve the home this season and year-round. Whether you're planning a few do-it-yourself improvements or a major renovation, it's important to think "green." One way to enhance the beauty and comfort of your home while saving on energy is by installing highly energy efficient windows.

Energy efficient windows with high insulating values, such as R-5, can result in significant savings on energy needed to heat and cool a home. Up until now, such windows have been cost prohibitive to most consumers. But thanks to programs like the Department of Energy (DOE)'s High Performance Windows Volume Program, homeowners can now purchase energy efficient R-5 windows at a more affordable price.

"The ultimate goal of such initiatives is to increase the awareness of R-5 windows and make purchasing more attainable for home and commercial building owners," says Terry Mapes, energy efficiency engineer and principal investigator, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). "R-5 windows are some of the most insulating available on today's market, and with so many manufacturers now producing such windows, it's getting easier to find prices that suit every need and budget."

So, what exactly does R-5 mean and why is it beneficial? An "R" value of a window means greater resistance to weather - making it ideal in winter to keep warm air in the home and cold air out and vice versa in the summer. This compares to common ENERGY STAR windows with an R-value of 3. Increasing the R-value from 3 to 5 reduces average heat loss through the windows by more than 30 percent, according to the DOE.

"We want consumers to know that although window technology has become more advanced through the years, it doesn't mean they have to sacrifice beauty with ordinary-looking windows," says Chris Pickering, vice president, marketing, Ply Gem Windows. "In combination with other energy efficiency upgrades such as insulated siding, these windows can dramatically improve curb appeal and home comfort in both the warm and cold months."

Qualifying windows within the DOE program are available in different colors and styles to match a variety of home decor. Ply Gem Windows, for example, offers R-5 windows and patio doors for both new construction and retrofit projects that come in a choice of two solid interior colors, three wood grain interior options and four exterior colors. Multiple grille, screen and frame styles can be selected for a more personalized look.

If you're looking to make a change this spring that will beautify your home while protecting the environment, consider installing energy efficient windows. For more detailed information, visit websites such as www.plygemwindows.com/R5 and www.windowsvolumepurchase.org, which are geared to help consumers better understand the benefits of R-5 windows and select styles that suit their needs.

Home 'eco'-nomics

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:53:00 -0400

Home 'eco'-nomics
(ARA) - Of the 13 recessions since the Great Depression, none has presented a combination of length, breadth and depth more significant than that of the current economic downturn. However, there is a bit of a bright spot among all of the doom and gloom. But perhaps it should be called a "green" spot.

While many expected American consumers to lose interest in the green movement, what has surfaced is a new pragmatism about the environment that embraces restraint, simplicity and cost-savings. As a result, consumers are re-evaluating what green really means.

"Today's green consumers are really savvy. They're now smarter about what they buy and they're looking for a direct return on investment through energy and utility savings," says Jack Suvak, senior director of research and insights at Moen.

Home is where it all begins
From organic produce to low-phosphate detergents, home is the heart of all things green. Whatever touches the kitchen and bath has become the first place for consumer evaluation and potential adoption.

Kitchen
Fortunately, the kitchen is one area where consumers have the most options for sustainable products that have the most cost saving opportunity. From ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances to green cleaning, homeowners have a virtual eco-wonderland of possibilities.

* Awesome appliances. ENERGY STAR-qualified appliances offer the benefits of efficiency, features and convenience. For example, new models of refrigerators that have earned ENERGY STAR qualifications are 40 percent more energy efficient than conventional refrigerators sold in 2001.

* Green cleaning. If scrubbing pots and pans makes you want to throw in the towel, pick up a natural sponge instead. Scotch-Brite's Greener Clean Natural Fiber Scrub Sponges and Scour Pads are new dish scrubbers, made from the agave plant, that are tough enough to remove dried-on food, but gentle enough to use on delicate surfaces - like non-stick pans - without scratching.

* Sustainable spout. While homeowners are concerned about saving water, the thought of waiting at the kitchen sink to fill a pot or pitcher is not very appealing. Fortunately, the new Lindley Eco-Performance kitchen faucet from Moen is the first in the kitchen category to offer a water-saving faucet that still provides exceptional performance.

Users can easily switch between three unique water flow settings: 1. eco-performance aerated stream (set/default setting); 2. eco-performance spray and 3. full flow.

Bath
You've heard the sustainable tips for the bathroom: take shorter showers, turn off styling items when they're not in use, and so on. But there are some new green items for the bath that will help you be more efficient, without giving it a second thought.

* Let there be light. A little extra light is always needed in the bathroom, but that doesn't mean you need to be wasteful. While compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) cost a bit more than traditional light bulbs, they will save more than $40 in electricity costs over their lifetime, and use about 75 percent less energy than standard incandescent bulbs - all while lasting up to 10 times as long.

* Shower power. It's the place where you waken your senses; or relax and unwind. While "green" and "shower" might not be words typically associated with each other; there are new products that combine exceptional performance with water-saving benefits. The Envi Eco-Performance rainshower from Moen features innovative Immersion technology - a self-pressurizing system that increases the force and flow of water delivery, while offering a flow rate of 2 gallons per minute.

"The green landscape of consumer products can definitely be overwhelming - the volume of green products available to U.S. consumers increased by 73 percent between 2009 and 2010 alone," explains Suvak. "But by making smart choices and selecting products from brands they trust, homeowners today can have it all - cost-effective, no-sacrifice solutions that deliver on their sustainable promises." For more information about sustainable products from Moen, visit moen.com/eco-performance.

Raising children to be environmental heroes

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 09:00:00 -0400

(ARA) - For modern families, being eco-friendly can be a big priority. That's why it's important to plant the recycling seeds in children early so their love for the environment grows as they do. However, because students spend significant hours in the classroom, teachers must partner with parents to develop habits that are relevant at home as well as at school.

The United States generated more than 243 million tons of material waste in 2009, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. However, Americans recycled only 34 percent of that waste. Statistics such as these present ample opportunities for teachers and parents to implement recycling programs through which young children can make real contributions to saving the planet.

Here are a few tips to get started:

Find the right program

Getting your family or children signed up in a recycling program often helps make learning more fun. Elmer's Products has developed the Elmer's Glue Crew Recycling Program as a resource for helping teach children how to show the planet some TLC. The program provides parents and teachers with helpful recycling-related lessons as well as hands-on projects to keep kids excited about recycling in their daily lives. Additionally, it ensures the plastic that glue bottles and sticks are made of is delivered to the type of facility that can recycle them, making sure they stay out of landfills.

Reduce paper use

New information is thrown at children everyday - often times in the form of sheets of paper. While using recycled paper is good, the added communications can pile up. Teach children to print only if absolutely necessary. Instilling selective printing habits in children early will cut back on paper waste and foster environmental awareness for the long-term.

Divide and conquer

The Environmental Protection Agency estimated that more than 30 million tons of plastic waste was generated in 2009 alone. Rather than having one universal trash bin, teach children to separate their waste across various recycling bins. Creating separate bins for materials - such as paper and plastic - will get children in the habit of sorting waste so they can recycle both at home and at school.

To help parents and teachers ensure the recycling message stays relevant and fresh, companies like Elmer's have setup online resources at ElmersGlueCrew.com and Facebook.com/GlueCrew so users can find new activity ideas and share success stories.

Green ways to 'master' the bath

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Fri, 25 Mar 2011 08:20:00 -0400

(ARA) - You can easily turn your master bathroom into a green retreat - without breaking the bank. By making smart, sustainable updates, you can transform your space into one that's both eco-friendly and stylish.

Save where - and what - you can

The ultimate green act when remodeling is to repurpose materials you already have, instead of buying new. Spruce up your existing vanity instead of purchasing a new one by refinishing cabinets and drawers with a fresh coat of stain or paint. If you have a glass shower door, try to save the existing structure and reinstall it once your new tile is in place. By using what's already in the space, you'll help the environment and your wallet, you'll save a lot of money and prevent those materials from winding up in landfills.

The most important type of "savings" in any eco-friendly makeover is reducing the amount of natural resources used. In order to make an impact, replace the standard elements in the space with sustainable ones: Switch incandescent light bulbs to compact fluorescents (CFLs), replace your current toilet with a high-efficiency model and install new eco-performance fixtures in the shower and at the sink.

The new Method bathroom collection from Moen is a stylish, eco-friendly solution. Method lavatory faucets feature clean lines and soft curves and are certified to meet WaterSense criteria. That means the fixtures meet the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) guidelines as environmentally responsible and efficient by reducing water usage by up to 32 percent, without sacrificing performance. An Eco-Performance showerhead that flows at 1.75 gallons per minute - 30 percent less than the industry standard - is also available within the Method collection, allowing you to continue your water savings in the shower.

Take a cue from the outdoors

Before starting your green updates in the master bath, gather some inspiration from the most natural space there is - the great outdoors. Try a rustic-meets-modern style. Neutral colors are the perfect backdrop for graphic, contemporary linens and sleek accents. Look for tiles in shades of brown and taupe, and install them around the entire surround of your shower or tub for an airy and expansive feel.

What's more outdoorsy and natural-looking than rich wood floors? Sustainable wood flooring is just as affordable, more eco-friendly and even easier to install than most tile. If you can, run the flooring through the master bedroom right into the bath. Not only will it visually expand the bathroom, but it also creates the feeling of a unified master suite. Add to your inviting, luxurious space with statement linens - like bold, leaf-patterned towels made from organic cotton and all-natural bathmats. Sleek glass canisters and bamboo accessories are the perfect finishing touches.

With the right environmentally-conscious products, you can "master" a sustainable bath that will easily save you resources - and money. For more information on the latest eco-performance products from Moen, visit moen.com/eco-performance or call (800) BUY-MOEN (800-289-6636).

Spring greening tips for your home

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:45:00 -0400

(ARA) - As the weather warms, are you thinking about spring cleaning? Or, maybe you're planning to spruce up your home with some improvements and upgrades. This year, why not add "spring greening" to your home-freshening routine?

Making your home a "greener" place to live can improve its energy efficiency, reduce waste and make you feel more in harmony with the natural world springing to life around you. Green efforts can be as simple as switching out old incandescent light bulbs for more energy-efficient ones, or as energetic as adding skylights in the house or a vegetable garden in the backyard.

If you're looking for ways to make your home environment more earth-friendly this spring, here are some ideas to consider:

Powering down

No matter how eager you are for warm weather, you're probably not too excited about the electric bills that come with summer heat. Heating and cooling account for the largest portion of a home's energy bill. Fortunately, you can do a lot to reduce electric use - and waste - to trim costs and still keep your home comfortable.

If you're up for some minor improvement work that can pay off big in terms of energy savings, make your home feel more connected to nature, and add decorating flair, consider adding a skylight. The abundant natural light admitted to your home by skylights can help reduce the need to power artificial light sources. Plus, the natural chimney effect of venting skylights is a great way to passively vent moisture, fumes and potentially harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In spring and fall, when it's too warm for comfort, but not hot enough to justify turning on the air conditioning, venting skylights can let in cool breezes and lower cooling costs. And they can close automatically in case of rain. You can learn more about No Leak Skylights and their energy-efficient benefits at www.veluxusa.com.

You can also reduce energy costs in warmer months with some simple maintenance. During summer, when your cooling system works harder, be sure to change the air filter on your home's HVAC system every month. EnergyStar.gov also recommends a yearly tune-up of your system.

Greening up

Some of the most popular home improvements can be accomplished in ways that are environmentally friendly. For example, painting is a common spring spruce-up. Many paints, however, contain VOCs and give off fumes that can irritate allergies and asthma. You can make your redecorating more eco-conscious by opting for low-VOC paints. And always be sure to open plenty of windows before painting, even if you're using a low-VOC selection. The fresh air will help the paint dry faster and ensure that any unpleasant odors vent quickly.

Another common spring activity is lawn care. As warm weather approaches, many homeowners begin applying weed killer and fertilizer to their lawns in the hopes of having a lush, green carpet of grass come summer. Many lawn care products, however, can adversely affect the environment. If it's a priority for you to green your lawn - and not just to have green grass - it's possible to find plenty of eco-friendly lawn care products. Websites like www.OMRI.org, the home page of the Organic Materials Review Institute, can provide information on products that are environmentally friendly.

Finally, as you're undertaking your spring cleaning, keep in mind the need to reduce waste. When you clean out your garage or attic and purge closets, evaluate items before you toss them in the trash. You may find that many of the things you were going to throw away can be donated, sold or recycled - anything to get them out of your house without adding to the waste stream.

Conservation tips for every family member, whatever their age

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 18:08:00 -0400

(ARA) - The "going green" trend may be just a few years old in America, but it's definitely not a movement reserved for only the young. Involving all members of the family in a greener lifestyle, no matter their age, is not only a good thing to do for the environment; it can also be a great way to bond with children, parents and grandparents.

"We see families with multiple generations come into our restaurants and stores, and age is definitely no barrier to their passion for environmental consciousness," says DeAnna Fry of Cracker Barrel Old Country Store. The company emphasizes conservation in its 599 locations, and encourages its stores and their staff to share their environmental knowledge with guests, Fry says. "Young children, senior citizens, teens and tweens, middle-aged couples, young families - they're all eager to embrace greener products, services and practices."

Just as businesses implement conservation steps across all levels of their organizations, you can incorporate environmentally friendly habits into your daily life - and encourage all members of your household to participate. From steps as simple as a team approach to recycling to ones as fun and adventurous as growing your own herbs and vegetables, greening your lifestyle can definitely be a "family affair." Fry and the Green Team at Cracker Barrel offer families some tips:

Lighten your electric load

Reducing the amount of electricity your household uses is good for the environment and it can save you money, too. The average American household spends more than $100 a month for electricity, the U.S. Energy Information Administration reports.

* Turn off lights - Parents and grandparents aren't the only ones who can do this. As soon as they're old enough to reach the switch, children should be taught to turn off lights when they leave a room.

* Look for EnergyStar ratings - When adults buy new household appliances, they can look for the EnergyStar ratings that tell them how energy efficient an item is. As a bonus, you can use the shopping experience to help children improve their math and reading skills by encouraging them to read and discuss the EnergyStar labels on items you're considering for purchase.

* Unplug - Appliances and electronic items drain energy as long as they're plugged in, even if they're not turned on. Whenever practical, unplug any device you're not using. Parents can lead the way by unplugging cell phone chargers when they're not in use. Grandparents can pitch in by unplugging toasters and other appliances.

What to do about water

* Kids can learn to conserve water by turning off the tap while brushing their teeth or washing their hands.

* Get the whole family involved in water conservation by setting up a rain barrel that can be used to water the family vegetable garden, irrigate the lawn or even wash the car.

* Repair leaky faucets and running toilets immediately. A single drip can waste a great deal of water each day.

Playing it cool

Heating and cooling costs account for the largest portion of a home's overall energy use. Even the youngest members of the family can help conserve energy by using heating and cooling wisely.

* Parents, be sure ceiling fans are set properly to help maximize your heating, ventilation and cooling system's efficiency. In the summer, fan blades should rotate left to aid in cooling, and to the right in winter to push down the warm air that collects at the ceiling.

* Adults can help children remember to close doors quickly so that cool air doesn't escape in the summer and warm air stays inside the house in the winter.

* A programmable thermostat can help reduce energy costs by turning your HVAC system on when you need it and off when you don't. Parents can help grandparents learn to program these easy-to-use devices to help lower energy bills.

Preserve the past

Cracker Barrel uses preserved farming implements and household wares to decorate its stores. Each location is adorned with about 1,000 items that the company has purchased and preserved. You can borrow this page in your own home. Tired of the same old wall decor and accessories in your home? Why not consider visiting grandma's attic and asking her to share with you some of the items she treasured as a child or young wife and mother? Identifying, cleaning up and refurbishing memorabilia to incorporate into your household decor can be a great family project.

"The desire to care for our environment really does span all age groups," Fry says. "And caring for the environment is something that the entire family can do together."

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store name is a registered trademark of CBOCS Properties, Inc., Reg. USPTO.

Going green on your next remodel? Add tile to your green product list

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 09:39:00 -0400

(ARA) - Are you planning an upcoming remodel for your home? Going green and using sustainable building materials continues to be a top trend in home improvement. Remodeling green isn't just about using products with recycled content, it's also about using superior products that will stand the test of time and reduce energy costs.

You can choose from a number of options when remodeling green, including modern energy-efficient appliances and low-VOC paints. Traditional products can also be environmentally friendly. For example, many homeowners choosing to go green are selecting ceramic tile for a variety of reasons.

Ceramic tile is inherently a sustainable product. It's a great choice because it lasts up to four times longer than carpet and wood flooring. It never needs to be refinished like wood floors do, contributing to a low lifecycle cost. To clean, all you have to use is hot water which means no harsh chemicals are flushed into the ecosystem.

Tile also doesn't release fumes or fibers into the air like carpet can. Many people dislike carpet because it houses microbes and other germs, and dirt can become deeply embedded, requiring a costly cleaning by a professional. Tile eliminates these issues entirely.

Getting all the great eco-friendly qualities of tile doesn't mean a sacrifice of good design. Tile of Spain manufacturers offer stunning options in any size, format, texture, color and pattern. From modern, sleek designs to ornate, classic patterns, visit www.spaintiles.info to find tile that will perfectly suit your design personality.

Emerging technology has eliminated some of the concerns people tend to have when it comes to tile. Adding new tile used to be a daunting task. Tearing out old layers and disposing of them is messy and time-consuming. New slim tiles are only 3 to 6 millimeters thick and thin enough to be applied over existing tile, offering a new look to walls and floors with less hassle, and saving construction waste from the landfill.

Tile no longer has to be cold. It's an ideal product to use in raised flooring and radiant heating. In fact, technological advances now allow for the tile to work in tandem with a home's HVAC system. High-tech tiles adopt the temperature of the room and once past a certain temperature use nano energy storage cells to absorb thermal energy and then slowly release it back into the room. This technology alone can save the average home more than 16 percent in electricity bills.

Dry setting tile is now an option for home remodelers as well. Tile can be applied without mortar or grout, which means if you move, you can take the tile with you. Or you can change it in a few years without a lot of work.

If you don't like the appearance of grout lines and worry about keeping these areas clean, there are new options in large format tile which can lessen the number of joints. Additionally, rectification of tile, a process where the edges of the tile are shaved off for perfect calibration, makes it possible to get a very tight "credit card" joint that allows a more seamless appearance.

If sustainability is a key consideration when remodeling, make sure the products you select are durable, easy to clean and are good for the health of your home and the environment. Ceramic tile helps you accomplish all of the above on your green check list.

No More Plastic Bags (Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 17:15:00 -0500

LIPA to Help Businesses Save Money by Going Green

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Wed, 9 Mar 2011 10:43:00 -0500

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The Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), NYS Small Business Development (SBDC), NYS Empire State Development, National Grid and Nassau and Suffolk Counties are sponsoring free informational seminars on how to access financial incentives and achieve cost savings through energy efficiency, process efficiency, and technical assistance programs.

Three seminars will be held separately in Uniondale, Melville, and Wading River and will educate business owners on how to obtain incentives for energy & process efficiency improvements to help lower your carbon footprint, energy use and electric bills and to find out what other businesses have done to successfully win incentives, and implement cost-saving measures.

All three events are free, but reservations are required so if you plan on attending you must register immediately.

For all events: Registration, continental breakfast and networking is from 7:30 AM to 8:30 AM. Program will begin promptly at 8:30 AM and end at 10:30 AM. For more information please visit http://www.lipower.org/commercial/rsvp/

Going Green is not only good for the environment, but also for your wallet so try to go to one of these free events !

Source: http://www.lipower.org/newscenter/pr/2011/030711-green.html

Get smart about your living environment: Five trends that will make your home truly your own

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Tue, 8 Mar 2011 16:01:00 -0500

(ARA) - If you're looking to purchase or remodel a home, you likely are building a long list of "must-haves," "must-dos" and "must-includes" for your new space. There's no question the housing market is in a different place than it was as recently as five years ago. Of course, a tough economy has been the prevailing factor, but other things - an aging population and a tough job market - are influencing how people are living today and possibly into the future. If you're like most home seekers and remodelers, you may find that your requirements fall in line with these five growing trends:

Bigger isn't always better: As interest grows in living more efficiently, people are building smaller homes. In fact, new homes are now 7 percent smaller than they were the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Just my style: Homeowners are aiming to make their home fit their personal visions of the best investment on the dollar, and 20 percent of new homes are currently custom-built, according to the American Institute of Architects. This trend to customize is in part made possible by the parallel trend to build a smaller home. Smaller spaces free up dollars to put toward the products that fill it. Color, decor and products that help make a home feel one-of-a-kind versus one-of-many are becoming king.

Multigenerational: Homeowners also are seeking spaces that accommodate residents of all ages. One-third of baby boomers report they have adult children still living at home or likely moving back home at some point, and 8 percent of Americans report their parents already live with them or will in the future, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. With more people living under one roof - some possibly in diminishing health - you may be among the homeowners seeking products that will help ensure a healthier, cleaner environment. This may range from a programmable thermostat to help you bring comfortable temps to all ages, to an air filter to help keep germs and airborne particles at bay.

In for the long haul: As life expectancy increases, Americans are building homes that will allow them to "age in place." Smart technology and system installations that will address future sight, hearing and dexterity-related limitations are becoming increasingly popular as a result.

Energy-efficient: As homeowner concerns about energy costs continue to mount, so too does their attention to home design and products that will help lower their energy bills and decrease their carbon footprint. As a result, homeowners are showing increased attention to factors such as insulation and window quality.

In the end, there are many products and services on the market to help meet these homeowner needs, but there's one you may have not considered, tucked away in your basement. It's your home heating, ventilation and cooling (HVAC) system, and it actually plays a role in meeting each of these growing homeowner trends.

* If it's a smaller home you seek, HVAC manufacturers such as Trane continue to rollout product solutions that offer you the size you need to fit your space.

* Heating and cooling alone accounts for half of the energy used in a home, according the Alliance to Save Energy, so it's important to install a HVAC system that will deliver optimal performance. A product such as the Trane XC95m furnace is among the most energy efficient on the market, and is equipped with technology that allows it to communicate with all other components of a heating and cooling system.

* If smart technology and a customized home experience are what you need, consider remote home energy management systems. With a solution like Schlage LiNK, a remote access solution that provides home control from a cell phone or any computer with Internet access, you can adjust your home's thermostat, even when you are not there.

* Your heating and cooling system can also help keep your home a clean and healthy environment for all ages. Many manufacturers offer whole-house air filtration systems, and some of these systems can filter up to 99.98 percent of particles and allergens from your home's air.

If any of these home trends apply to the "must have" list for your new or remodeled home, your heating and cooling system might be a good place to begin in your planning. Visit www.trane.com to get started. With the right HVAC system, you'll be on your way to creating your picture-perfect home environment, however small, unique, diverse, long-lasting or energy-efficient you need it to be.

King of the 'green' road

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Mon, 7 Mar 2011 09:09:00 -0500

(ARA) - These days, consumers are more aware of the need to protect our fragile planet. They buy products that are environmentally friendly: solar-powered wrist watches, reusable coffee sleeves, designer sunglasses made with renewable materials and even an "eco" beer. What they may not realize is that the commercial trucks that carry the same goods they buy are themselves green.

"Commercial truckers, like everyone else, do care about the environment," says Rick Phillips, director of commercial sales at Yokohama Tire Corporation, which makes "green" truck tires. "I know because they want tires that last longer, perform better, use less fuel and minimize the impact on the environment.

"Truckers can drive more than 100,000 miles a year transporting goods," says Phillips about eco truck tires. "By using the right tires, they can improve fuel economy from 3 to 5 percent in over-the-road applications, and every gallon of gas saved means 20 fewer pounds of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere. So being green can pay off and help the planet."

Phillips says Yokohama is no stranger to manufacturing eco-friendly tires. "We also make passenger car and race car tires that use sustainable materials like orange oil to replace much of the petroleum in the tire. You don't normally put racing and environment in the same sentence, but we do at Yokohama."

So what makes a truck tire green? The way it's designed is a big factor, plus low rolling resistance - features that result in reduced material consumption and pollution, and contribute to a healthy environment.

Low rolling resistance tires improve fuel efficiency because they provide less friction as the tire rolls down the road. Less energy is wasted, and for eco-conscious and budget-conscious truck drivers who want to maximize their mileage, the shift to low rolling resistance tires is a popular upgrade.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is on board with eco-friendly truck tires by way of its SmartWay program, which verifies low rolling resistance tires based on a tough criteria. Seven Yokohama truck tires are on the SmartWay list, including its new 101ZL, which offers truckers even more fuel savings.

"We want truckers to save fuel as well as help the planet," says Phillips. "It's that simple. We recently launched an interactive, online-based Fuel Savings Calculator that enables commercial fleet owners to learn how they can improve their bottom line in terms of fuel savings. It's all about using ultra-high technology to make truck tires that last longer and are more fuel efficient."

While truckers are making their big rigs lean, green driving machines, Phillips says consumers in passenger cars can join the eco revolution by simply checking and maintaining their tires. Here are some of his "green" tips:

* Keep your tires properly inflated. Once a month, when the tires are cold (at least three to four hours after the vehicle has been driven), check tire pressure with a reliable tire gauge. Be sure that the valve stems have a plastic or metal cap to keep dirt out and seal against leakage.

* Tires must be replaced when the tread is worn down to 1/16th of an inch to prevent skidding and hydroplaning. An easy test: place a penny into a tread groove. If part of Lincoln's head is covered by the tread, you're driving with the proper amount of tread. If you can see all of his head, you should buy a new tire.

* Built-in treadwear indicators, or "wear bars," which look like narrow strips of smooth rubber across the tread, will appear on the tire when the tread is worn to 1/16th of an inch. When you see these wear bars, the tire should be replaced.

* Visually check your tires for signs of uneven wear. You may have irregular tread wear if there are high and low areas or unusually smooth areas. Consult your tire dealer as soon as possible.

* Tires should be rotated at least every 6,000 to 8,000 miles and the alignment should be checked once a year. Misaligned tires can cause the car to scrub, which lowers mileage and causes unnecessary tire wear.

* Slow down. For every five miles per hour you go above 60 mph, you're lowering your gas mileage and, ultimately, paying even more for each gallon of gas.

For additional tire care and safety tips, visit www.yokohamatire.com or www.rma.org.

Recycle Around The World 3

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Fri, 4 Mar 2011 09:45:00 -0500

Why green schools benefit your kids - and the environment

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Thu, 3 Mar 2011 15:56:00 -0500

(ARA) - We're becoming increasingly aware of the impact that our actions have on the environment and our quality of life, but sadly while many of our homes and buildings are being built and modernized to be greener, many of our children's schools continue to waste energy and contain materials that are toxic to kids health. In fact most schools spend more on electricity bills than on books and computers.

Schools are beginning to join the charge to use less and be more efficient. But did you know that schools that make strides to become more environmentally friendly are often also providing better learning environments for students?

While helping the environment is definitely a key motivator, green improvements can also improve student performance by creating a healthier, more productive learning environment, providing hands-on lessons for students, and saving schools money that they can use on classroom initiatives.

Pureology has teamed up with Global Green USA to create a "green school" makeover competition where schools can enter to help improve the lives of students while educating parents, teachers, students and the public about the importance of creating healthy green classrooms. Pureology Serious Colour Care are the makers of hair care products that are 100 percent Vegan and contain organic botanicals.

Here are a few examples of how a "green school" makeover can benefit both the earth and students:

* Plant an organic, edible garden

Environmental benefit: By growing food on school grounds, a school can order less food that needs to travel long distances, saving on energy and food costs.

Learning benefit: Students get a hands-on biology lesson. Growing a garden could also encourage them to eat better, positively influencing their physical and mental development.

* Start a recycling program

Environmental benefit: Because hundreds of students and teachers occupy a school throughout the day, a recycling program can greatly reduce the amount of recyclable materials that would otherwise end up in a landfill. Schools could also take this a step further and institute a composting program, which could also provide fertilizer for onsite gardens.

Learning benefit: Children can learn about what items can be recycled and take those lessons home to their families. Composting provides a great platform for a science lesson.

* Use green design elements

Environmental benefit: Plain and simple, schools that use green design techniques don't use nearly as much energy.

Learning benefits: Green buildings use non-toxic compounds that decrease the chances that students will be exposed to something that will make them sick and keep them out of school. Natural lighting and proper ventilation also help students stay healthy and maintain the proper mindset for learning.

While parents and students can encourage their schools to take a look at these eco-friendly improvements, a great way to start is by practicing them in the home. Parents can offer many of the same lessons that can be used in the classroom.

If you are looking for ways to encourage your school to go green, visit GreenSchools.Pureology.com. In addition to providing guidance on different types of green upgrades, visitors can find information about Global Green USA's Green School Makeover Competition Presented by Pureology. The contest allows students and parents to work with school administrators to complete applications that detail what kind of green improvements their schools need. The winning school will receive a comprehensive green makeover, and four finalists will each receive $2,500 for sustainable upgrades. Even for those schools that don't take home prizes, the application provides a great way for schools to begin the conversation about making their schools more sustainable.

In the short run, green schools go a long way toward reducing the amount of energy we use. But in the long run, students who learn how to lead more sustainable lives will help guarantee that subsequent generations have a safe and healthy place to live.

The founder of Recyclebank discusses building a green business (Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Thu, 3 Mar 2011 08:30:00 -0500

Save green with green laundry practices

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 14:24:00 -0500

(ARA) - There's no question that the majority of Americans want to make green purchases and do their part to help preserve the environment. But even as the economy starts to turn around, more than two thirds of U.S. consumers say price is the biggest obstacle preventing them from buying green goods or services this year.

With hundreds of green products coming out every day it's tough to tell what actually works, what's good for the environment and how to go green without spending all the green in your wallet. Plus, if you're like many cash- and time-strapped Americans, going green may seem like a costly and time-consuming addition to your everyday life.

Fortunately, several easy adjustments to your weekly routine can help you do your part to preserve the environment and your paycheck. Take an everyday chore like doing the laundry. Spending more than $2,500 annually on water, electricity, cleaning and laundry supplies combined, the average U.S. household does more than 400 loads of laundry per year.

Such costs can be taxing on the environment and your bottom line, but here are a few simple changes you can make to help you save green by going green.

Cool it: The notion that you can only thoroughly clean fabrics in hot water is a myth. Approximately 90 percent of the energy used to power your washing machine comes from heating the water. Wash your laundry in cold or warm water. This will not only help to save money on your utility bill, but will also minimize greenhouse gas emissions.

Hang 'em up: Don't dry your clothes excessively - doing so is bad for the environment and your fabrics. Try drying laundry the old fashioned way - by hanging it on a clothes line or drying rack. If you are in the market for a new dryer, get one with an electronic sensor that senses when the clothes are dry and automatically shuts off afterward.

Ditch the dryer sheets: They're an unnecessary expense. Plus many of the most popular brands contain ethanol, chloroform and other chemicals on the Environmental Protection Agency's hazardous waste list. These chemicals are released into the air after they're heated in your dryer. If you really need to eliminate static cling, try adding a quarter cup of white vinegar during the rinse cycle. It's cheaper and just as effective.

Find a fiber-friendly fabric softener: Over 95 percent of liquid fabric softeners are oil-based which means they work by coating fibers in oil. Over time this oily residue builds up and decreases the lifespan of fabrics. The average American family spends $2,147 on clothing each year, half of which is spent replacing clothes. Use a fabric softener that's not oil-based like Purex Complete Crystals Softener, which is 92 percent natural and will not turn your clothes yellow or gray.

Fill 'er up: Depending on when your washer was made you could be spending up to $195 each year on electricity alone just to do the wash. Always try to run a full load of laundry in your washer or dryer. Running a partial load uses the same amount of energy as a full load, but accomplishes less. Running full loads will help you use less energy which is better for the environment and your bank account.

There are many ways to protect the environment and it doesn't stop with your cleaning routine. Adopt some of these tips and the environment, your body and your wallet, will thank you in the long run.

JZ Go Green Tips for Reducing Waste

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:39:00 -0500

Being careful about what you buy, consume, and throw away may not seem all that exciting even for the most committed environmental steward. But efficient daily practices and a little old fashioned common sense are good for the environment and your bottom line.

Use this checklist to see how many waste management and recycling practices you’ve implemented. Then make a plan of action to expand your efforts.

Make waste reduction a priority in your home.
Evaluate the waste you generate to identify and reduce your greatest sources of waste.
Measure the volume or weight of the garbage you generate and set measurable reduction targets.
Reject wasteful consumption by carefully considering what you need and buying products that last.
Purchase products with minimal packaging or packaging that can be recycled, or buy in bulk.
Use cloth napkins, cloth lunch bags, sponges/dish rags, reusable plates, and reusable coffee filters instead of paper alternatives.
Repair or donate older or unwanted equipment and household goods to local charitable groups, rather than dispose of them.
Purchase durable furniture and equipment or products made of recycled material to reduce waste from inferior products.
Purchase recycled paper products, such as office paper, bathroom tissue, etc.
Set up an area to collect recyclable of paper, glass, cardboard, aluminum, tin, and plastic.
Compost outdoor wastes such as grass clippings, leaves, and kitchen waste (no meat or onions).

Tips to save money and reduce your environmental footprint

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 17:15:00 -0500

(ARA) - Are you afraid to adjust the temperature in your house because you consider your electric bill - and your carbon footprint - to be big enough? Saving money and reducing your carbon and water footprints are worthy goals you can spend many years striving to achieve. But here are a few ideas to help you get started reducing your energy bill and being eco-friendly.

* In the laundry room, consider using a dryer that steam cleans your laundry, so you don't have to take it to the dry cleaners. The benefits can add up quickly each week. You can save time doing your laundry when you want, and money by not paying for dry cleaning or for the gas used for a trip to the dry cleaners. You'll also benefit the environment by using water to steam clean your clothes, and avoiding some of the chemicals dry cleaning companies often use.

* Start making your own electricity in your utility room. Replace your furnace or boiler with ECR International's freewatt heating system, which uses micro-CHP technology to generate heat and electricity for your home. This system works for natural gas fuel sources, and can generate up to half of your typical home's annual electric needs through the engine generator, according to ECR. It basically burns the same amount of fuel as your current furnace, but generates additional electricity through the process to power other areas of your home.

"We wanted to spend as little money annually as possible on our fuel bills," says Amy O'Connor of Swampscott, Mass., who uses a freewatt natural gas energy system in her colonial home. "We've seen incredible electrical savings, and it's really a joy to turn our heat on every year because once the heat comes on - and it's heat that we would be using anyway - we start to generate our own electricity and we see fantastic electrical savings every year. We knew when we purchased it that we were going to be happy with having a new heating system that was gas, but also having something that would lessen our carbon footprint. But really at the end of the day it was about saving thousands of dollars on an annual basis."

The freewatt plus model, also available in propane, provides you with backup power that keeps your electricity on, even when the grid around you goes black. Additionally, you can add a water heater to the freewatt plus system to produce added electricity. You may be able to sell electricity back to your utility company if it has net metering.

* Keep your runoff clean. Landscape your property so the rain water that lands on it leaves as clean as when it fell from the sky. If your home will support it, you can develop a green roof to reduce your watershed amount. A smaller project you can work on around your home includes installing rain gardens with deep-rooted native plants that will allow the rainwater - and snow melt - to seep naturally into the ground, instead of rushing off into the storm water system. Collecting rainwater in barrels at the bottom of your drain spouts will also help you save on water usage because you can reuse that water for your plants in drier times.

You can accomplish your goals to save money and reduce your environmental footprint at home with just a little effort and energy. And as the temperature drops this winter - set the temperature where you want it, because being green doesn't mean you have to be cold.

Environmental Tips - How to Go Green (Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 17:56:00 -0500

Upgrade Your Bathroom to Save Water, Money and Go Green

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 09:41:00 -0500

Bathroom upgrades that will freshen the room - and save you money

(ARA) - When you sit back to relax in the tub, or take time to preen in front of the bathroom vanity, do you often feel that the setting just isn't giving you the comforting and spa-like experience you wish you could feel at home?

Sure, you take good care of your bathroom - you've scrubbed the faucets to make them as shiny as you can and everything works the way it has for many years. But maybe it's time you gave your bathroom a refreshing change - one that not only gives you the luxurious feeling of comfort and elegance, but also that benefits your wallet and the environment.

You may be surprised to learn that bathroom showers, toilets and sinks account for about 75 percent of the water used in each American home. If you haven't replaced any of your faucets or toilets for many years, you may be not only struggling with keeping these older fixtures looking clean and fresh, you may also be paying a lot of extra money to keep them running.

Consider your toilet. Older toilets can use as much as 5 gallons of water per flush, while stylish modern toilets are designed to cut that amount by more than a third. And some models, like the new high-efficiency Aquia Wall-Hung Dual Flush HET, which uses TOTO's Dual-Max flushing system, can use as little as 0.9 gallons per flush. These qualities earn this toilet the EPA WaterSense label for being water efficient. And being wall hung makes sense aesthetically - by hiding the tank in the wall and lifting the toilet from the floor (making cleaning a breeze), you can save a total of 9 inches of precious room space.

Now take a look at your vanity and see your faucet for what it is. If the faucet has been around for many years, excessive use may have corroded some of the metal finish, or even worn away the hot and cold labels. A new faucet would not only freshen the look of the vanity, but also give your bathroom a beautiful new look. Standard bathroom faucets use 2.2 gallons of water per minute, newer models are available that provide the robust drenching needed to clean your hands while only using a modest 1.5 gallons per minute. One is TOTO's chic Aquia Single Handle High-Efficiency Faucet, available in heights to match your sink selection (undermount, self-rimming, or vessel).

Finally, check out the showerhead in your tub. You may already have upgraded your showerhead once since 1992, when it became a requirement that showerheads use no more than 2.5 gallons per minute. But newer models allow you to save even more water. The average person showers for eight minutes each day, so switching to a high-efficiency showerhead can save a family of four more than 8,700 gallons of water each year and reduce the demand on their water heater, saving them enough energy to power their television for a year. The Nexus High-Efficiency Showerhead from TOTO offers an invigorating showering experience with a responsible 1.75 gallons per minute water volume being consumed - which is a 30 percent savings over the legal limit.

Freshening up your outdated plumbing fixtures is a great step toward creating a spa-like atmosphere in your bathroom. Not only will you be able to enjoy the comfortable and beautiful bath space, but you'll also know that the changes are benefiting your pocketbook and the environment.

CSN Stores Giveaway Winner: Jake Cohen

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Fri, 18 Feb 2011 15:32:00 -0500

It is time to announce the giveaway winner here at JZ Go Green, but first I would like to thank everyone who entered. I also want to thank CSN Stores, because they are the sponsors behind this great giveaway. Congratulations to Jake Cohen from Comax Flavors. You have won a $75 gift certificate to CSN Stores. I have emailed you the details. Enjoy!

Thank You to everyone who entered.

Power Down, Save Money and Go Green

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Thu, 17 Feb 2011 19:17:00 -0500

Looking to save money and go green? Here are 10 quick and easy tips to accomplish both:

Unplug appliances and electronics. TVs, computers and kitchen appliances, as well as cell phone and laptop chargers, all use energy when they are plugged in—even if they are turned off.
Use power strips. “Smart” power strips automatically turn off when electronics are off or when one main unit (like your personal computer) is powered down.
Turn off lights. When you’re not in the room or not in the house, there’s no need for all the lights to be on.
Clean and replace furnace or air conditioner filters. Dirty filters block air flow, increase energy bills and shorten equipment life.
In the warmer months, keep the shades and blinds down on south-, east- and west-facing windows. In the colder months, open them up and let the sun in.
Activate “sleep” features on your computer and office equipment. When they go unused for a long period of time, they power down.
Lower the thermostat. Wear a sweater around the house and put an extra blanket on the bed at night.
Use fans instead of air conditioning when possible or combine their use to turn down the air temperature a bit.
Close vents and doors to unused rooms.
Wash your laundry with cold water. It’s just as effective.

Follow @JZGOGREEN on Twitter for more energy and money saving tips.

JZGoGreen Giveaway - $75 Gift Certificate to CSNStores.com

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 17:15:00 -0500

Today I was going to write about how to go green by installing caulk around your windows to make your home more energy efficient, but instead I have something better for you. A Giveaway! CSN stores contacted me about hosting this giveaway today and I had to do it. They sell everything from furniture, patio and garden supplies, swing sets and games to green and organic products. If you head on over there and do a search for eco-friendly you will find a wide range of green products like green certified kitchen faucets and energy star ceiling fans. They also have a wide selection of eco-friendly furniture as well.

For one lucky commenter on this post I will send you a $75 gift certificate (emailed) to use at any of CSN's 200 online stores, on anything you wish! Seriously just leave a comment and at 9AM tomorrow you could have $75 in your pocket (email) to use as you wish at any CSN online store! Just make sure to leave your email address in your post. Good Luck !

Giveaway Rules:

You need to click on "comments" at the end of this post and leave a comment about any green products they sell.
Only open to US and Canadian citizens
Leave a comment by tomorrow at 9AM in order to be entered in the contest. At that time I will use a random number generator to select a winner and email you of your victory!

Mr. Sunshine's Recycling Arena

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 19:46:00 -0500

University of Arizona Boldly Going Green (Video)

noreply@blogger.com (Zellerman) — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 14:32:00 -0500