Courtesy of Duke Energy:
Close curtains or blinds on the sunny side of your home during the day.
Replace standard light bults with CFL's. They use less energy, last longer, and don't create as much heat.
Inspect, clean, or replace air filters monthly.
Do laundry and run your dishwasher at night.
Raise your thermostat setting and use ceiling fans to keep you cool. Like a light, be sure to turn off the fan when you're out of the room.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Composting is Easy!!!!
Courtesy of EPA.gov:
A compost pile can be set up in a corner of the yard with few supplies. Choose a level spot about 3- to 5-feet square near a water source and preferably out of direct sunlight. Clear the area of sod and grass. When building a composting bin, such as with chicken wire, scrap wood, or cinder blocks, be sure to leave enough space for air to reach the pile. One removable side makes it easier to tend the pile.
Many foods can be composted, including vegetable trimmings, egg shells, coffee grounds with filters, and tea bags. In addition to leaves, grass, and yard clippings, vacuum cleaner lint, wool and cotton rags, sawdust, shredded newspaper, and fireplace ashes can be composted. DO NOT compost meats, dairy foods, or any fats, oil, or grease because they can attract pests.
Start the pile with a 4-inch layer of leaves, loose soil, or other coarse yard trimmings. If you are going to compost food scraps (a slightly more involved process), you should mix them with yard trimmings when adding them to the pile. Alfalfa meal or clean cat litter may be added to the pile to absorb odors. In dry weather, sprinkle water on the pile, but don't get it too soggy. Turn the pile every few weeks with a pitchfork to circulate air and distribute moisture evenly. Don't be surprised by the heat of the pile or if you see worms, both of which are part of the decomposition process. Make sure children do not play in the composting pile or bin.
In most climates, the compost is done in 3 to 6 months when it becomes a dark crumbly material that is uniform in texture. Spread it in the garden or yard beds or under the shrubbery. The compost also can be used as potting soil.
A compost pile can be set up in a corner of the yard with few supplies. Choose a level spot about 3- to 5-feet square near a water source and preferably out of direct sunlight. Clear the area of sod and grass. When building a composting bin, such as with chicken wire, scrap wood, or cinder blocks, be sure to leave enough space for air to reach the pile. One removable side makes it easier to tend the pile.
Many foods can be composted, including vegetable trimmings, egg shells, coffee grounds with filters, and tea bags. In addition to leaves, grass, and yard clippings, vacuum cleaner lint, wool and cotton rags, sawdust, shredded newspaper, and fireplace ashes can be composted. DO NOT compost meats, dairy foods, or any fats, oil, or grease because they can attract pests.
Start the pile with a 4-inch layer of leaves, loose soil, or other coarse yard trimmings. If you are going to compost food scraps (a slightly more involved process), you should mix them with yard trimmings when adding them to the pile. Alfalfa meal or clean cat litter may be added to the pile to absorb odors. In dry weather, sprinkle water on the pile, but don't get it too soggy. Turn the pile every few weeks with a pitchfork to circulate air and distribute moisture evenly. Don't be surprised by the heat of the pile or if you see worms, both of which are part of the decomposition process. Make sure children do not play in the composting pile or bin.
In most climates, the compost is done in 3 to 6 months when it becomes a dark crumbly material that is uniform in texture. Spread it in the garden or yard beds or under the shrubbery. The compost also can be used as potting soil.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Ways to Clean Green!
Courtesy of FamilyFun.com:
· Simple Green (www.simplegreen.com). I use this all-purpose non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner for everything from kitchen countertops to bathroom sinks. Because you add water to get the concentration you need, a little goes a long way.
· Bon Ami (www.bonami.com). I started buying this scouring powder because my mom always did. I kept buying it when I learned that it contained no harmful bleach or ammonia, and is often recommended as an environmentally-friendly cleaner. It's also the only safe product I can find that erases coffee and iron stains from my kitchen sink. Works hard in the bathroom, too.
· Vinegar and water. Sounds old-fashioned, but it sure does windows (try a 1 to 12 ratio of vinegar to water). Every so often I pour a pint or so down the drains, followed by a kettle of boiling water, to help keep them clear.
· Baking soda. Instead of spraying the indoor air or using an air freshener, I stick a box of baking soda in the cabinet where the trash and recycling sit, and another in the fridge. And I crack a couple of windows and let in some fresh air whenever I clean.
· Seventh Generation recycled paper towels (www.seventhgeneration.com). They don't melt when they get wet. When it doesn't make sense to grab an old towel or wash cloth that I can re-use, why not spare a tree?
· Microfiber cleaning cloths. I keep one under the kitchen sink. Dampen, and it quickly wipes fingerprints off chrome with no chemicals. Find them at your grocery store or any store with housewares.
Green cleaning may not take the "work" out of housework, but it sure removes some potentially hazardous chemicals, protecting your kids and the planet. It clears your conscience, too.
· Simple Green (www.simplegreen.com). I use this all-purpose non-toxic, biodegradable cleaner for everything from kitchen countertops to bathroom sinks. Because you add water to get the concentration you need, a little goes a long way.
· Bon Ami (www.bonami.com). I started buying this scouring powder because my mom always did. I kept buying it when I learned that it contained no harmful bleach or ammonia, and is often recommended as an environmentally-friendly cleaner. It's also the only safe product I can find that erases coffee and iron stains from my kitchen sink. Works hard in the bathroom, too.
· Vinegar and water. Sounds old-fashioned, but it sure does windows (try a 1 to 12 ratio of vinegar to water). Every so often I pour a pint or so down the drains, followed by a kettle of boiling water, to help keep them clear.
· Baking soda. Instead of spraying the indoor air or using an air freshener, I stick a box of baking soda in the cabinet where the trash and recycling sit, and another in the fridge. And I crack a couple of windows and let in some fresh air whenever I clean.
· Seventh Generation recycled paper towels (www.seventhgeneration.com). They don't melt when they get wet. When it doesn't make sense to grab an old towel or wash cloth that I can re-use, why not spare a tree?
· Microfiber cleaning cloths. I keep one under the kitchen sink. Dampen, and it quickly wipes fingerprints off chrome with no chemicals. Find them at your grocery store or any store with housewares.
Green cleaning may not take the "work" out of housework, but it sure removes some potentially hazardous chemicals, protecting your kids and the planet. It clears your conscience, too.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Native Plants vs. Non-Native Plants (What to Plant)
Courtesy of Meijer.com/The Nature Conservancy:
What is an invasive plant, and are all plants from other areas invasive?
- An invasive plant is one that has negative effects on our economy, environment, or human health.
- The term "invasive" applies to the most aggressive species that grow and reproduce rapidly, causing major changes to the areas where they become established.
- Almost all invasive plants are non-native, but it's also true that most plants that come from other places are not invasive.
What are some commonly known invasive plants?
- Two well-known examples of invasive plants include - purple loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria) - garlic mustard (Alliaria petiolata)
- Both of these plants are from regions with climates similar to the Midwest, and both produce seeds by the thousands that can spread rapidly over long distances.
- Neither one is vigorously fed upon by native Midwest insects or other animals.
- Many other examples of plants like these were originally introduced as garden flowers or herbs and have now become invasive.
Is a non-native plant always invasive?
- Most non-native plants do not compete well with native plants in the wilds of the Midwest, so they don't become invasive.
- They may find the growing season too short or their seeds may not be able to germinate properly here, or they may not have adequate defense against herbivores in the Midwest.
- Some of these may occasionally escape cultivation, but do not negatively affect Midwest ecosystems.
Why is it important to avoid planting invasive plants?
- Whether introduced intentionally or accidentally, invasive plants can quickly overwhelm native plants by reducing the availability of light,water, nutrients, and space.
- Destructive invasives damage forests, fields, wetlands, and waterways, causing erosion and depriving wildlife of food and habitat.
- The U.S. spends $120 billion annually on the control and impacts of more than 800 invasive species infestations. This does not account for the values of species extinctions and losses in biodiversity, ecosystems, services and aesthetics.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Energy-Saving Ideas
TURN DOWN WATER HEATER
Lowering the temperature on your water heater from 140 to 120 degrees will reduce your water heating costs by 6 to 10%. Give it a try. Many people find that tweaking the dial to save energy and money can become addictive.
UNPLUG UNUSED CHARGERS
Even when they aren't charging anything, plugged-in cell phone, laptop and other chargers continue to draw electricity. Americans throw away about 8% of our annual electric bills this way, wasting billions of dollars.
The solution is simple: just unplug them, or plug them into a surge protector and flip that switch when your device has pulled enough juice.
INSTALL COMPACT FLOURESCENT LIGHTBULBS
The little spiral-shaped bulbs known as compact fluorescents use less than a third of the energy of regular bulbs and last ten times longer, paying for themselves in lower energy bills within months. If every U.S. household replaced just one regular bulb with a CFL, the amount of energy saved could light 2.5 million homes for a year.
The good news is CFLs now come in a variety of colors and styles, including flood lights, candelabra sizes and much more.
INSTALL LOW-FLOW WATER FIXTURES
Decades ago, toilets used 5 gallons per flush, but these days more efficient models are readily available. So-called low-flow models use less than a gallon, and work great. American Standard, Toto and Kohler are leaders in the field.
Also save water and money, and still have ample water pressure, with a low-flow showerhead, which can slash bathing-water consumption 50 to 70 percent. The devices are simple to install and start at around $8. Low-flow faucets are also a great option.
USE ENERGY-STAR COMPLIANT APPLIANCES
Energy Star was designed by the EPA to take the guesswork out of appliance buying. Look for the blue-and-white label, which means the item is at least 10-50% more efficient than standard models (depending on the class of product). That means lower energy bills and less pollution.
More than 18,000 products in 35 different categories are covered in the Energy Star program, and most major manufacturers participate. Energy Star is a fixture in the showrooms of most retailers coast to coast.
LOW-WATER PLANTINGS
'Green carpet' grass lawns take a huge amount of water in dry climates, which leads to both high water bills and a lot of hassle and worry. Plus, the possibility of mandatory water restrictions means the yard may end up looking like a barren wasteland.
Instead, plant drought-tolerant native shrubs, trees and grasses. They won't require nearly as much water and will serve as habitat for local wildlife. Using low-water plantings even has a catchy name: xeriscaping.
In desert climates, cacti and similar plants, especially native ones, can add great beauty. You can also use stones, rocks and other features to add interest.
ADJUST HEATING AND COOLING
Most households shell out 50 to 70% of their energy budgets on heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Install a programmable thermostat will save you approximately $150 a year, according to the EPA -- that means it will pay for itself in just a few months. In warm temperatures, resist the temptation to set the air conditioning too low, and be vigilant with heating when it's chilly.
Aiming for 78 degrees or higher when you're at home while reduce your cooling loads 10-20%. When you're away, make it 85 degrees and save an additional 5-12%. In colder weather, for every degree you lower the thermostat, you'll save between 1 and 3% of your heating bill.
Lowering the temperature on your water heater from 140 to 120 degrees will reduce your water heating costs by 6 to 10%. Give it a try. Many people find that tweaking the dial to save energy and money can become addictive.
UNPLUG UNUSED CHARGERS
Even when they aren't charging anything, plugged-in cell phone, laptop and other chargers continue to draw electricity. Americans throw away about 8% of our annual electric bills this way, wasting billions of dollars.
The solution is simple: just unplug them, or plug them into a surge protector and flip that switch when your device has pulled enough juice.
INSTALL COMPACT FLOURESCENT LIGHTBULBS
The little spiral-shaped bulbs known as compact fluorescents use less than a third of the energy of regular bulbs and last ten times longer, paying for themselves in lower energy bills within months. If every U.S. household replaced just one regular bulb with a CFL, the amount of energy saved could light 2.5 million homes for a year.
The good news is CFLs now come in a variety of colors and styles, including flood lights, candelabra sizes and much more.
INSTALL LOW-FLOW WATER FIXTURES
Decades ago, toilets used 5 gallons per flush, but these days more efficient models are readily available. So-called low-flow models use less than a gallon, and work great. American Standard, Toto and Kohler are leaders in the field.
Also save water and money, and still have ample water pressure, with a low-flow showerhead, which can slash bathing-water consumption 50 to 70 percent. The devices are simple to install and start at around $8. Low-flow faucets are also a great option.
USE ENERGY-STAR COMPLIANT APPLIANCES
Energy Star was designed by the EPA to take the guesswork out of appliance buying. Look for the blue-and-white label, which means the item is at least 10-50% more efficient than standard models (depending on the class of product). That means lower energy bills and less pollution.
More than 18,000 products in 35 different categories are covered in the Energy Star program, and most major manufacturers participate. Energy Star is a fixture in the showrooms of most retailers coast to coast.
LOW-WATER PLANTINGS
'Green carpet' grass lawns take a huge amount of water in dry climates, which leads to both high water bills and a lot of hassle and worry. Plus, the possibility of mandatory water restrictions means the yard may end up looking like a barren wasteland.
Instead, plant drought-tolerant native shrubs, trees and grasses. They won't require nearly as much water and will serve as habitat for local wildlife. Using low-water plantings even has a catchy name: xeriscaping.
In desert climates, cacti and similar plants, especially native ones, can add great beauty. You can also use stones, rocks and other features to add interest.
ADJUST HEATING AND COOLING
Most households shell out 50 to 70% of their energy budgets on heating and cooling, according to the Department of Energy. Install a programmable thermostat will save you approximately $150 a year, according to the EPA -- that means it will pay for itself in just a few months. In warm temperatures, resist the temptation to set the air conditioning too low, and be vigilant with heating when it's chilly.
Aiming for 78 degrees or higher when you're at home while reduce your cooling loads 10-20%. When you're away, make it 85 degrees and save an additional 5-12%. In colder weather, for every degree you lower the thermostat, you'll save between 1 and 3% of your heating bill.
5 Water Saving Ideas
Courtesy of www.thedailygreen.com
LOW FLOW SHOWERHEAD
...Can slash bathing-water consumption 50 to 70%. The devices are simple to install and start at around $8. Many styles and features are available, including flow-adjusting dials and a pause button.
TURN OFF THE WATER
Turn off the water while you brush your teeth. The average bathroom faucet flows at a rate of two gallons a minute, according to the EPA's WaterSense initiative. That means you'll save up to 8 gallons of water a day per person.
WATER YOUR YARD IN THE A.M.
The best time to water outdoors is in the morning, both to reduce water waste and to promote healthy flora. Morning air is cooler, so less water is lost to evaporation than during the middle of the day. If you water in the evening, you run the risk of promoting fungi and bacterial diseases.
USE A CAR WASH
It may surprise you, but commercial car washes use water more efficiently, typically using 45 gallons of water per car. Home washers typically use between 80 and 140 gallons. Commercial car washes must also drain their wastewater into sewers, versus simply running it across your driveway into the land.
FIX DRIPS
One faulty faucet wastes 3 gallons of water per day, reports the U.S. Geological Survey. So get a pipe wrench and tighten those seals, replace old and worn hardware, and call your neighborhood plumber if you need help. Every drop really does add up.
LOW FLOW SHOWERHEAD
...Can slash bathing-water consumption 50 to 70%. The devices are simple to install and start at around $8. Many styles and features are available, including flow-adjusting dials and a pause button.
TURN OFF THE WATER
Turn off the water while you brush your teeth. The average bathroom faucet flows at a rate of two gallons a minute, according to the EPA's WaterSense initiative. That means you'll save up to 8 gallons of water a day per person.
WATER YOUR YARD IN THE A.M.
The best time to water outdoors is in the morning, both to reduce water waste and to promote healthy flora. Morning air is cooler, so less water is lost to evaporation than during the middle of the day. If you water in the evening, you run the risk of promoting fungi and bacterial diseases.
USE A CAR WASH
It may surprise you, but commercial car washes use water more efficiently, typically using 45 gallons of water per car. Home washers typically use between 80 and 140 gallons. Commercial car washes must also drain their wastewater into sewers, versus simply running it across your driveway into the land.
FIX DRIPS
One faulty faucet wastes 3 gallons of water per day, reports the U.S. Geological Survey. So get a pipe wrench and tighten those seals, replace old and worn hardware, and call your neighborhood plumber if you need help. Every drop really does add up.
Bisphenol-A in Plastic Bottles ... What Is It?
Courtesy of www.thedailygreen.com
Glass bottles or plastic bottles?
Bisphenol-A is a chemical used to make clear, hard plastics, including plastic baby bottles. Plastic containers that have bisphenol-A are usually stamped “No. 7.” You may also see a “PC” stamp, which means “polycarbonate.”
Here is what we know about polycarbonate plastics containing bisphenol-A. The National Toxicology Program, a federal chemical research program, has released a draft study stating there is “some concern” that low-level exposure to bisphenol-A leads to neural and behavioral impacts in unborn babies, infants, and small children. Other possible impacts include early onset of puberty in girls, and impacts on the prostate and mammary glands.
“Some concern” is not a casual phrase. Scientists don’t do casual when writing reports. “Some concern” is a carefully defined midpoint of a five-step spectrum ranging from “negligible” to “serious” concern.
Infants and kids ingest more bisphenol-A than adults because, pound for pound, the little ones eat, drink, and breathe more.
“The possibility that bisphenol-A may alter human development cannot be dismissed,” the study said carefully. We need more research, the experts added.
Canada’s federal health agency may go further. The conservative government of PM Stephen Harper has proposed banning polycarbonate baby bottles and to list bisphenol-A as a toxic substance, among other steps. On Saturday, Health Canada opened a 60-day comment period on the proposal.
As often occurs, the market is moving ahead of the bureaucrats. North of the border, the Hudson’s Bay retailing chain has announced it is stocking up on baby products free of the chemical. In the U.S., Wal-Mart will stop selling baby bottles containing bisphenol-A next year. Target has begun offering glass baby bottles. Nalgene Outdoor Products will stop using the chemical for its popular plastic water bottles.
In other words, until you know more, spending a little extra on baby products or other plastic bottles that don’t contain bisphenol-A sounds like the prudent thing to do.
Glass bottles or plastic bottles?
Bisphenol-A is a chemical used to make clear, hard plastics, including plastic baby bottles. Plastic containers that have bisphenol-A are usually stamped “No. 7.” You may also see a “PC” stamp, which means “polycarbonate.”
Here is what we know about polycarbonate plastics containing bisphenol-A. The National Toxicology Program, a federal chemical research program, has released a draft study stating there is “some concern” that low-level exposure to bisphenol-A leads to neural and behavioral impacts in unborn babies, infants, and small children. Other possible impacts include early onset of puberty in girls, and impacts on the prostate and mammary glands.
“Some concern” is not a casual phrase. Scientists don’t do casual when writing reports. “Some concern” is a carefully defined midpoint of a five-step spectrum ranging from “negligible” to “serious” concern.
Infants and kids ingest more bisphenol-A than adults because, pound for pound, the little ones eat, drink, and breathe more.
“The possibility that bisphenol-A may alter human development cannot be dismissed,” the study said carefully. We need more research, the experts added.
Canada’s federal health agency may go further. The conservative government of PM Stephen Harper has proposed banning polycarbonate baby bottles and to list bisphenol-A as a toxic substance, among other steps. On Saturday, Health Canada opened a 60-day comment period on the proposal.
As often occurs, the market is moving ahead of the bureaucrats. North of the border, the Hudson’s Bay retailing chain has announced it is stocking up on baby products free of the chemical. In the U.S., Wal-Mart will stop selling baby bottles containing bisphenol-A next year. Target has begun offering glass baby bottles. Nalgene Outdoor Products will stop using the chemical for its popular plastic water bottles.
In other words, until you know more, spending a little extra on baby products or other plastic bottles that don’t contain bisphenol-A sounds like the prudent thing to do.
Ways to Clean Your Home Toxic-Free!
Courtesy of thedailygreen.com:
BATHROOMS
Baking Soda and Water (with kosher salt): Dust surfaces with baking soda, then scrub with a moist sponge or cloth. If you have tougher grime, sprinkle on some kosher salt, and work up some elbow grease.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Got stains, mildew or grease streaks? Spray or douse with lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit a few minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush.
Disinfectant: Instead of bleach, make your own disinfectant by mixing 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. It's easy!
KITCHENS
Baking Soda and Water: Reclaim counters by sprinkling with baking soda, then scrubbing with a damp cloth or sponge. If you have stains, knead the baking soda and water into a paste and let set for a while before you remove. This method also works great for stainless steel sinks, cutting boards, containers, refrigerators, oven tops and more.
Kosher Salt and Water: If you need a tougher abrasive sprinkle on kosher salt, and scrub with a wet cloth or sponge.
Natural Disinfectant: To knock out germs without strong products, mix 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. Spray or rub on countertops and other kitchen surfaces.
WINDOWS AND MIRRORS
White Vinegar, Water and Newspaper: Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with a gallon of water, and dispense into a used spray bottle. Squirt on, then scrub with newspaper, not paper towels, which cause streaking.
If you're out of vinegar or don't like its smell, you can substitute undiluted lemon juice or club soda.
CARPETS AND RUGS
Beat Those Rugs: Take any removable rugs outside and beat the dust and hair out with a broom. Club Soda:You've probably heard the old adage that club soda works well on carpet stains. But you have to attack the mess right away. Lift off any solids, then liberally pour on club soda. Blot with an old rag. The soda's carbonation brings the spill to the surface, and the salts in the soda thwart staining.
Cornmeal: For big spills, dump cornmeal on the mess, wait 5 to 15 minutes, and vacuum up the gunk.
Spot Cleaner: Make your own by mixing: 1/4 cup liquid soap or detergent in a blender, with 1/3 cup water. Mix until foamy. Spray on, then rinse with vinegar.
To Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the carpet or rug, using about 1 cup per medium-sized room. Vacuum after 30 minutes.
HARDWOOD FLOORS
Vinegar: Whip up a solution of 1/4 cup white vinegar and 30 ounces of warm water. Put in a recycled spray bottle, then spray on a cotton rag or towel until lightly damp. Then mop your floors, scrubbing away any grime.
OVENS
Baking Soda and Water: Coat the inside of your dirty appliance with a paste made from water and baking soda. Let stand overnight. Then, don gloves and scour off that grime. Make spotless with a moist cloth.
CLOGGED DRAINS
Baking Soda and Boiling Water (vinegar if needed): Feeling plugged up? Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the problem drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. If that isn't doing it for you, chase the baking soda with a 1/2 cup of vinegar and cover tightly, allowing the vigorous fizzing of the chemical reaction to break up the gunk. Then flush that with one gallon of boiling water.
ANTIQUE LINENS
Sunlight: What could be easier than sanitizing and removing stains...with sunlight! (Just don't do it too often with fragile pieces, because they can start to breakdown). Simply lay your old lace, curtains and other fine linens on the grass in the sun for a few hours. Dirtier pieces can be dampened first.
Boiling: If that doesn't do the trick, fill a pot with water and bring to a boil on your stovetop. Drop in linens and let steep until stains lift.
Detergent and Borax: Mix dishwasher detergent and borax together until you get a thick rubbing paste. Rub into soiled linens, then rinse clean.
Peroxide: If you have stubborn stains, try spraying them with peroxide, then rinsing with water.
SILVERWARE
Silver -
Aluminum Foil, Boiling Water, Baking Soda and Salt: Keep your sterling shined with this seemingly magic method. Line your sink or a bucket with aluminum foil, and drop in tarnished silver. Pour in boiling water, a cup of baking soda and a dash of salt. Let sit for a few minutes. The tarnish will transfer from the silver to the foil.
Toothpaste: If you can't immerse your items or are otherwise inclined to polish by hand, rub tarnished silver with toothpaste and a soft cloth. Rinse with warm water and dry. Instead of toothpaste you can substitute a concoction made of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
Copper -
Ketchup: To keep your copper pots, pans and accents looking bright and shiny, try rubbing with ketchup.
BATHROOMS
Baking Soda and Water (with kosher salt): Dust surfaces with baking soda, then scrub with a moist sponge or cloth. If you have tougher grime, sprinkle on some kosher salt, and work up some elbow grease.
Lemon Juice or Vinegar: Got stains, mildew or grease streaks? Spray or douse with lemon juice or vinegar. Let sit a few minutes, then scrub with a stiff brush.
Disinfectant: Instead of bleach, make your own disinfectant by mixing 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. It's easy!
KITCHENS
Baking Soda and Water: Reclaim counters by sprinkling with baking soda, then scrubbing with a damp cloth or sponge. If you have stains, knead the baking soda and water into a paste and let set for a while before you remove. This method also works great for stainless steel sinks, cutting boards, containers, refrigerators, oven tops and more.
Kosher Salt and Water: If you need a tougher abrasive sprinkle on kosher salt, and scrub with a wet cloth or sponge.
Natural Disinfectant: To knock out germs without strong products, mix 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20 to 30 drops of tea tree oil. Spray or rub on countertops and other kitchen surfaces.
WINDOWS AND MIRRORS
White Vinegar, Water and Newspaper: Mix 2 tablespoons of white vinegar with a gallon of water, and dispense into a used spray bottle. Squirt on, then scrub with newspaper, not paper towels, which cause streaking.
If you're out of vinegar or don't like its smell, you can substitute undiluted lemon juice or club soda.
CARPETS AND RUGS
Beat Those Rugs: Take any removable rugs outside and beat the dust and hair out with a broom. Club Soda:You've probably heard the old adage that club soda works well on carpet stains. But you have to attack the mess right away. Lift off any solids, then liberally pour on club soda. Blot with an old rag. The soda's carbonation brings the spill to the surface, and the salts in the soda thwart staining.
Cornmeal: For big spills, dump cornmeal on the mess, wait 5 to 15 minutes, and vacuum up the gunk.
Spot Cleaner: Make your own by mixing: 1/4 cup liquid soap or detergent in a blender, with 1/3 cup water. Mix until foamy. Spray on, then rinse with vinegar.
To Deodorize: Sprinkle baking soda or cornstarch on the carpet or rug, using about 1 cup per medium-sized room. Vacuum after 30 minutes.
HARDWOOD FLOORS
Vinegar: Whip up a solution of 1/4 cup white vinegar and 30 ounces of warm water. Put in a recycled spray bottle, then spray on a cotton rag or towel until lightly damp. Then mop your floors, scrubbing away any grime.
OVENS
Baking Soda and Water: Coat the inside of your dirty appliance with a paste made from water and baking soda. Let stand overnight. Then, don gloves and scour off that grime. Make spotless with a moist cloth.
CLOGGED DRAINS
Baking Soda and Boiling Water (vinegar if needed): Feeling plugged up? Pour 1/2 cup of baking soda into the problem drain, followed by 2 cups of boiling water. If that isn't doing it for you, chase the baking soda with a 1/2 cup of vinegar and cover tightly, allowing the vigorous fizzing of the chemical reaction to break up the gunk. Then flush that with one gallon of boiling water.
ANTIQUE LINENS
Sunlight: What could be easier than sanitizing and removing stains...with sunlight! (Just don't do it too often with fragile pieces, because they can start to breakdown). Simply lay your old lace, curtains and other fine linens on the grass in the sun for a few hours. Dirtier pieces can be dampened first.
Boiling: If that doesn't do the trick, fill a pot with water and bring to a boil on your stovetop. Drop in linens and let steep until stains lift.
Detergent and Borax: Mix dishwasher detergent and borax together until you get a thick rubbing paste. Rub into soiled linens, then rinse clean.
Peroxide: If you have stubborn stains, try spraying them with peroxide, then rinsing with water.
SILVERWARE
Silver -
Aluminum Foil, Boiling Water, Baking Soda and Salt: Keep your sterling shined with this seemingly magic method. Line your sink or a bucket with aluminum foil, and drop in tarnished silver. Pour in boiling water, a cup of baking soda and a dash of salt. Let sit for a few minutes. The tarnish will transfer from the silver to the foil.
Toothpaste: If you can't immerse your items or are otherwise inclined to polish by hand, rub tarnished silver with toothpaste and a soft cloth. Rinse with warm water and dry. Instead of toothpaste you can substitute a concoction made of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water.
Copper -
Ketchup: To keep your copper pots, pans and accents looking bright and shiny, try rubbing with ketchup.
10 Ways to Save Gas and Money
Courtesy of thedailygreen.com:
1. CHECK AIR FILTER (A clean air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10%, and nearly one in four cars needs an air filter replacement) = savings of $.28/gal.
2. ALIGN YOUR TIRES (Poor alignment not only causes tires to wear out more quickly, but also forces your engine to work harder, which can reduce fuel economy by as much as 10%) = savings of $.28/gal.
3. TUNE UP (A properly tuned engine can improve mileage by 4%) = savings of $.11/gal.
4. PUMP UP TIRES (More than one-quarter of vehicles have improperly inflated tires. The average under-inflation of 7.5 pounds causes a loss of 2.8% in fuel efficiency) = savings of $.08/gal.
5. CHECK GAS CAP (It is estimated that nearly 17% of cars on the road have broken or missing gas caps, which not only reduces gas mileage but may harm the environment) = savings of $.02/gal.
6. SLOW DOWN (For every 5 mph you reduce highway speed, you can reduce fuel consumption by 7%) = savings of $.19/gal by reducing speed from 70 mph to 65 mph.
7. DRIVE SMOOTHLY (The more smoothly you accelerate and decelerate, the better your gas mileage, with potential gas savings of 33% on the highway and 5% around town) = savings of $.48/gal.
8. DON'T RIDE YOUR BRAKES (Riding with your foot on the brake not only wears out brakes but can also increase gas consumption by as much as 35%) = $.96/gal.
9. LIGHTEN YOUR LOAD (For every 100 extra pounds carried around, your vehicle loses 1 to 2% in fuel efficiency) = savings of $.04/gal for every 100 pounds of weight removed.
10. DON'T IDLE (Besides causing pollution, idling wastes gas. If stopped for more than 30 seconds, turn off the engine, and don't bother to 'warm up' your car before driving -- it is not necessary) = $.01/gal for every two minutes you avoid idling.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Water Bottles - Which To Use
Americans are currently adding 30 million PET water bottles to our nation's landfills – everyday (http://www.mysigg.com/)!
Unlike disposable bottles, reusable bottles really are leak-proof, even after many washes in the top rack of the dishwasher. The wide-mouth lids are easy to find in a kitchen drawer, and they make it easy to add ice cubes, lemon wedges or stir-in drink mixes. What kinds of things do you and your family do to help protect the environment (http://www.familyfun.com/)
Nalgene is removing their hard plastic water bottles from circulation. The maker of the popular Nalgene water bottle is pulling the product from shelves. The world's biggest retailer is phasing out the sale of certain baby bottles. And a manufacturer of infant products is dropping some of its plastic goods. These actions were sparked by a federal report released this week that acknowledged a chemical found in many plastic products may cause health problems, particularly among children. Studies say bisphenol A is harmful to humans, which is something contained in the previous nalgene water bottles (HoustonChronicle.com).
Try using SIGG bottles. They are Swiss Engineered Water Bottles. SIGG has perfected the formula of its proprietary inner liner over decades of scientific research and Swiss engineering. The ingredients (like the formula for Coca-Cola) remain secret and unavailable to 3rd parties so as to ensure SIGG retains its competitive advantage. The key of course is that the SIGG liner is FDA approved and independently tested to be taste and scent inert – and resistant to any leaching (0.0%) so 100% safe (http://www.mysigg.com/).
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Initial Contact with Companies
This past week, I contacted IDEM to ask if they have any ideas on how I can not only get the restaurant I work for to recycle, but how to make it so it is prevelant in other restaurants. Here is my email sent on Monday, April 14, 2008:
I work for a local restaurant as a server. I have been there now for over a year. I honestly believe that as a strong company, they can make a huge difference and impact among other restaurants by taking a stand and recycling. Everyday, we throw away plastic, paper, glass, cardboard, styrofoam, and aluminum. Instead of throwing it all into the dumpsters and causing a larger waste impact on the dumps, I am trying to get them to set up a recycling program with each of the local recycling companies in the areas where every restaurant is located in the United States and begin to do our part to protect the environment. Every evening I work, I leave with empty ketchup bottles, paper, and cardboard. I take what I can gather because I feel that even the smallest part is doing something to help the environment. I found and informed them of companies who sells recycled and environmentally-friendly to-go containers. What a difference it would make (AND WHAT AN IMAGE) if our restaurant took a stand and went green! Please help me in my quest to make this happen. I know the company can model the way to better the environment.
On Wednesday, April 16, 2008, Kristin Wiley from IDEM replied:
Ms. Wilson:
Thank you for your April 14 e-mail regarding recycling. The Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District (SWMD) may be able to help you. You can contact Steve Wood at 317-776-4005. You can also contact Al Melvin in IDEM’s Recycling branch at 317-233-5623 or via e-mail at amelvin@idem.in.gov for some helpful information and ideas on what you can do. Thank you for using IDEM Online and for your interest in recycling!
So, I went onto the Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District website (http://www.hcdoes.org/sw/sba.htm) to look for more answers and to find Mr. Steve Wood so I could contact him directly. I also sent my same initial email to Al Melvin at IDEM's Recycling Branch to see what answers he could provide. I couldn't locate his name. But, I did find an email for Susan Schumacher and sent her the same email I sent the previous two people.
I am hoping this research will lead me somewhere to mandate that restaurants recycle.
I work for a local restaurant as a server. I have been there now for over a year. I honestly believe that as a strong company, they can make a huge difference and impact among other restaurants by taking a stand and recycling. Everyday, we throw away plastic, paper, glass, cardboard, styrofoam, and aluminum. Instead of throwing it all into the dumpsters and causing a larger waste impact on the dumps, I am trying to get them to set up a recycling program with each of the local recycling companies in the areas where every restaurant is located in the United States and begin to do our part to protect the environment. Every evening I work, I leave with empty ketchup bottles, paper, and cardboard. I take what I can gather because I feel that even the smallest part is doing something to help the environment. I found and informed them of companies who sells recycled and environmentally-friendly to-go containers. What a difference it would make (AND WHAT AN IMAGE) if our restaurant took a stand and went green! Please help me in my quest to make this happen. I know the company can model the way to better the environment.
On Wednesday, April 16, 2008, Kristin Wiley from IDEM replied:
Ms. Wilson:
Thank you for your April 14 e-mail regarding recycling. The Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District (SWMD) may be able to help you. You can contact Steve Wood at 317-776-4005. You can also contact Al Melvin in IDEM’s Recycling branch at 317-233-5623 or via e-mail at amelvin@idem.in.gov for some helpful information and ideas on what you can do. Thank you for using IDEM Online and for your interest in recycling!
So, I went onto the Hamilton County Solid Waste Management District website (http://www.hcdoes.org/sw/sba.htm) to look for more answers and to find Mr. Steve Wood so I could contact him directly. I also sent my same initial email to Al Melvin at IDEM's Recycling Branch to see what answers he could provide. I couldn't locate his name. But, I did find an email for Susan Schumacher and sent her the same email I sent the previous two people.
I am hoping this research will lead me somewhere to mandate that restaurants recycle.
Response from IDEM
I just received this response from Al Melvin at IDEM where I also responded letting him know I would love further information!
Ms. Wilson,
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Recycling Branch provides assistance to Indiana communities that are beginning or expanding recycling programs. I would be very happy to share resources, contacts, or provide any other assistance you may need to increase recycling at your restaurant.
I have seen first hand the volume of recyclables that are generated at food services facilities. It could be a tremendous opportunity for significant recycling and waste reduction efforts. Please email or call me at the numbers below.
Thank you for your interest in Recycling!
Al
Ms. Wilson,
The Indiana Department of Environmental Management’s Recycling Branch provides assistance to Indiana communities that are beginning or expanding recycling programs. I would be very happy to share resources, contacts, or provide any other assistance you may need to increase recycling at your restaurant.
I have seen first hand the volume of recyclables that are generated at food services facilities. It could be a tremendous opportunity for significant recycling and waste reduction efforts. Please email or call me at the numbers below.
Thank you for your interest in Recycling!
Al
NRC (National Recycling Coalition)
I just sent the same email to the National Recycling Coalition. Let's see if they have anything to offer.
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