Reducing energy use in the home is an integral part of addressing global climate change, energy security, and green economic growth.  Energy used in the residential sector is a significant contributor to green house gas emissions (GHGs).  In California for example, homes are responsible for 14% of GHGs, 32% of the state’s electricity consumption, and 36% of its natural gas consumption.  In response to this many homeowners are taking action to save both money and energy use through energy efficiency upgrades. 

Unfortunately many people ...

When it came time to buy a new car back in 2006, my choice was clear.  The Toyota Prius was the only car at that time that provided the performance I needed and was as eco-responsible as I could get.  I knew that my top priority was sustainability and so my “green” decision was easy.

Living in California, I thought that other Prius buyers were doing it for the same reasons, but I’ve learned it’s always good to know whether you’re really as similar ...

For many people, our home is our sanctuary.  As our shelter from the storm, nothing is more personal than when we feel our homes under siege.  With dozens of recent examples on how toxic items are entering our homes, how can we remain calm, make informed decisions, and keep our homes and lives free of chemicals?

First and foremost, unless something is known to contain toxic levels of chemicals, please don’t throw it out prematurely. To paraphrase Thomas Friedman ...

With the economic downturn putting pressure on many people’s wallets, we have been analyzing our purchases, and trimming back on many costs we do not view as essential.  Enviromedia recently released a report showing that 82% of consumers are still purchasing eco-products, despite the economic lull.  Given the higher upfront costs of these products, why are people still choosing to buy green?  Do people now view these products as essential items?

For many people, they see the long-term savings associated ...