Archive for May, 2009

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Cargo Bins Are Not Just For Cargo Anymore Friday, May 8th, 2009 Recycled cargo containers, container homes, repurposed bulk-containers, steel shipping container architecture—no matter what lingo is used, this is the moderately new green alternative for an affordable and nearly indestructible home or office.  The skyrocketing cost of constructing/designing residential and office spaces has forced architects to think differently.  They need to not only alter their thinking about the design process, but the technique by which the project is constructed. Actually, cargo container dwellings are not a relatively new concept around ports in developing countries.  After much research on these zero-waste modular livable spaces, I realized that many people have been using these containers, supposedly for temporary housing, for over 20 years.  People from Gyumri, Armenia were provided with these steel shipping containers as short-term housing after the devastating earthquake in 1988.  Container housing could prove to be ideal for emergency shelters after natural disasters, such as Katrina. Vacant steel shipping containers sit taking up ample space at ports. Believe it or not, it is more expensive to ship these empty containers back to their country of origin.  Instead, new ones are purchased from Asia; thus there is an excess supply of cargo containers.  There is no financial incentive to ship the containers back.  With the recycling initiative in mind, reusing our resources puts these idle pieces to use. According to the Web Urbanist, Whether it’s a single-family home, small or large apartment, school or community center or even an office complex, cargo containers allow for fast construction and long term sustainable use.  There are many advantages: they are plentiful, they are easily transported, they’re stackable, relatively inexpensive (as little as $900 for a used container), they can be prefabricated, and they’re extremely durable. Here are some educational cargo container sites: In 2001, Container City was born.  Urban Space Management, a design company based in England, came up with a cost effective and environmentally friendly architectural model using unused steel cargo containers. Architect Peter DeMaria, is one of the renowned Americans involved in re-designing the cargo containers.  To view some of his projects, click here to see his freight container based projects. To view some examples of cargo architectural designs based in Zurich, Asia and London, visit the Web Urbanist site The Daily Green  has a great slideshow of shipping containers transformed into ultra-hip livable spaces. Container Homes Info provides a detailed history of the cargo shipping container and elaborates on the correct terminology of these containers: inter-modal steel building units (ISBUs). Container4Home  is a site that promotes their book that includes “everything you need to design and bulid a very cool home.”  Be sure to watch this video clip from History Channel’s “Modern Marvels” about London’s Container City – a project which uses shipping containers into livable architecture. Check out other areas areas of Earth Promise to help the environment. Tags: biodegradable, carbon footprint, cargo, change, changes, climate change, conservation, container city, container homes, containers, earth, earth promise, earthpromise, eco-friendly, education, emergency shelter, energy, energy efficient, environment, environmental, environmental issues, environmentally friendly, freight, freight containers, global warming, green, green changes, green future, green living, green practice, green practices, green revolution, green tips, grocery manufacturers association, inter-modual steel building units, ISBU, organic, peter demaria, recycled cargo containers, recycling, repurposed bulk containers, reuse, reusing, save money, short-term housing, steel shipping container, waste Posted in Uncategorized | 6 Comments »

Earth Promise Interview – Ed Begley Jr. Wednesday, May 6th, 2009   Ed Begley Jr. – Actor and Environmental Advocate Ed Begley Jr., an actor on the stage, television and on the screen has been nominated for awards numerous times.  Begley is perhaps best known for his role on the television series St Elsewhere, for which he received six consecutive Emmy Award nominations. He currently has a reality show about green living called Living With Ed on Planet Green with his wife, actress Rachelle Carson. In addition to acting, Ed has been considered an environmental leader in the Hollywood community for many years. He has served as chairman of the Environmental Media Association, and the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy. He still serves on those boards, as well as the Thoreau Institute, the Earth Communications Office, Tree People and Friends of the Earth, among many others. His work in the environmental community has earned him a number of awards from some of the most prestigious environmental groups in the nation, including the California League of Conservation Voters, the Natural Resources Defense Council, The Coalition for Clean Air, Heal the Bay and the Santa Monica Baykeeper.  He currently lives near Los Angeles in a self-sufficient home powered by solar energy.  Some other key sites Mr. Begley is involved in are Fixing the Planet, and Begley’s Best.  For a full list of sites and organizations he is involved in go to his website for more details.    Earth Promise: Your care for the environment and steps to protect it are well known and you are one of the main faces of the green movement.  What was your inspiration for this?  Were you “green” as a child?  What was your first, ah ha! Green moment? Ed Begley Jr.: It was the first Earth Day in 1970. I had lived through 20 years of horrible choking smog in Los Angeles, and I had had enough, and decided to take action. EP: Are you seeing an uptick in the number of eco-conscious people and also in the level they are taking their changes to help the environment?  EB: Yes. I speak all around the country, and I see folks from both sides of the aisle eager to take action to protect our environment. EP: How would you classify being green?  Is it a lifestyle or philosophy?  Or put a different way, is it a way of living as part of your normal everyday routine, or is it a central belief that should guide all decision you make in your everyday world? EB: It is both an everyday routine and a central belief that guides that everyday behavior. I try to live simply so that others may simply live. EP: You have a lot of shows, sites, and projects that you are involved in with the environment in mind.  Can you tell me about some of them? EB: I have a show in reruns on Planet Green called “Living With Ed” that shows that has been quite successful since its original airing on HGTV. I go around the country and speak regularly, as well as serving on many environmental boards. EP: What are your top five recommendations for the people who want to do a self-green audit of their home? EB: I would say these are the top five: Energy saving light bulbs Energy Saving Thermostat Weather Stripping around the doors & windows Public transportation, if available near you Bike riding, if weather & fitness permit EP: What are some of the things that anger you or drive you crazy that you see people do that hurts the environment?  I guess your eco pet peeves.  EB: Throwing trash in the street. Pouring liquid waste down a storm drain. It’s hard to believe that some folks don’t know that that goes straight out to the ocean. EP: One misperception I hear about a lot is that going green is expensive.  Can you provide some examples for the average person on how taking steps to help the environment can also help your wallet? EB: See the answers I gave a few questions ago.  All that stuff is super cheap. EP: In what ways will green awareness and green initiatives help us, both as a country as well as individually, during these tough economic times? EB: We need to do the cheap and easy stuff right away. It will give us instant relief environmentally and financially. EP: How much of an environmental crisis are we really in? What are the consequences of non-action or limited change? EB: There are thousands of scientists who feel the situation is dire. Global Climate Change, overfishing, deforestation, water shortages to name but a few. The sad thing is that there are economically feasible solutions to ALL of these problems. EP: Overall, are we on the right path for “Fixing the Planet”, given the problems of the world economy, world poverty and other global issues such as terrorism? EB: We have the right path laid out before is. We all just have to take it and pick up the pace. EP: Do you think the lack of green innovation is somewhat to blame for today’s economic crisis?  For example, if the major auto makers had been focus on making more environmental friendly cars as opposed to SUVs, they would have been in better shape (and we would too), especially given all the strides made in California to improve air quality via emission control? EB: There’s been plenty of green innovation. The auto industry is partly to blame for promoting the SUV over all else, and so are we for responding to that pitch. EP: We hear a lot about how to green one’s home whether online or on TV.  However, most people spend 40+ hours at work whether an office, home business, office business, outdoor business (construction, landscaping, etc) and any others. What are some of the best steps people can take in their workplace when it comes to benefiting the environment?  EB: There’s much we can do at work. From recycling to car-pooling to get there to buying recycled paper, our environmental ethic should not stay cooped up at home. EP: What causes the most climate damage in the business world and how can we fix it? EB: Power plant emissions are huge, so any way that we can become more energy efficient at work, we accomplish a great deal. Transportation to get to work, and transportation on the job are the other big ones. EP: The average person views the Hollywood lifestyle as being very lavish, materialistic and one filled with excess like big homes, expensive cars and clothes, etc.  This of course does not apply to you!!  When people think this or see this, can they take Hollywood serious when it comes to a green message? EB: Hollywood has been a Mecca for excess for a hundred years. That has begun to change, but the entertainment industry needs to do much more. EP: Do you think your audits that you conduct inspire the average citizen to know that a Hollywood celebrity is changing their lifestyle to be greener? EB: I sure hope so. EP: How much of an impact can celebrities have on leading or driving the green movement?   EB: Anyone famous in Sports, Politics or entertainment can have a very loud voice that the public often responds to. But, with that voice comes great responsibility. It must be used wisely. EP: What is the one Earth Promise you are going to make in the future that you have not done yet? EB: I’m going to put in an underground Greywater and rainwater collection system. EP: Thank you very much.  Your input is greatly appreciated. Tags: 21 in 21, California League of Conservation Voters, carbon footprint, change, changes, climate change, conservation, earth, Earth Communications Office, earth day, Earth hour, earth promise, earthpromise, eco-friendly, ed begley, ed begley jr, education, energy, energy efficient, environment, environmental, environmental issues, Environmental Media Association, environmental movement, Friends of the Earth, global warming, green, green changes, green interviews, green living, green practice, green practices, green revolution, green tips, Heal the Bay, living with ed, Rachelle Carson, Santa Monica Baykeeper, Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy, The Coalition for Clean Air, the Natural Resources Defense Council, Thoreau Institute, Tree People Posted in interviews | 2 Comments »

Green Your Mama Tuesday, May 5th, 2009 Environmentally friendly gifts are all the rage these days, but with the economy still dipping, you can still show Mom how thankful you are.  Here are a few ideas that will let Mom know you not only adore her, but Mother Earth as well. First and foremost, keep in mind what Mom’s hobbies are.  Does she like to curl up with a good book?  Purchasing books from a second-hand book store is not only a financially great idea, but applies the reusing thought process.  Like Netflix’s movie rental offer of free shipping both ways, sign your mom up for a membership at Book Swim.  This is an online rental library service that stocks the latest bestsellers and new releases.  If mom is a slow reader, no worries; Book Swim has no late fees. Does Mom enjoy gardening?  Purchasing a rose bush in lieu of a dozen roses is a longer lasting gift.  If she adores flowers but doesn’t have a green thumb, Organic Bouquet  offers an array of sustainable floral options to fit any budget.  You can let Mom know that 5% of your purchase went toward a charitable organization “dedicated to supporting social and environmental causes.”  Then there is the eco-alternative of an artificial bouquet…made from elephant poop!  Don’t worry–these handmade Thai paper roses crafted from elephant dung are odorless. For that open-minded green mama of yours, these Elephant Poo Paper Roses are sure to be a hit. And how about movies?  If she is not a member of Netflix  already, a gift subscription is sure to warm her heart.  Otherwise, prepare a special evening with (or for) your mom (or wife) by renting a movie you know that SHE will enjoy.  Create a home theater atmosphere: turn off all the lights, make her favorite snack, etc.  Remember, it‘s all about MOM! A truly unique gift from Uncommon Goods are the Recycled Kimono Bra Straps . Do you ever see Mom’s bra straps hanging out from her tank top?  Those clear plastic or beaded bra straps can dig into her shoulders.  With the Kimono Bra Straps, each print is exclusive and made from overstocked kimono fabric. Try visiting these sites for other Mother-worthy gift ideas: Well Fed Network Crafting a Green World Kate’s caring Gifts Just spending quality time with Mom is sure to make her feel loved.  Together, you can visit Earth Promise and create promises  to help make a world of difference. Our Green interviews start again tomorrow,  First Interview…Ed Begley Jr. Tags: carbon footprint, change, changes, climate change, compost, compost bin, composting, conservation, earth, earth promise, earthpromise, eco-friendly, eco-gifts, education, energy, energy efficient, environment, environmental, environmental issues, gifts, global warming, green, green changes, green future, green living, green practice, green practices, green revolution, green tips, Mom, mother earth, mother's day, organic, recycling, reusing, save money, second-hand, waste Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

How Green is Your Grocery Purchasing Thought Process? Monday, May 4th, 2009 Think about it: you are grocery shopping and are deciding between your conventional-brand detergent and an environmentally friendly brand. The eco-product’s packaging reveals that its contents are biodegradable or petroleum-free and is kind to our waterways.  How many of you will opt for the sustainability produced product?   According to a recent study conducted by Grocery Manufacturers Association and Deloitte, Even as shoppers continue to hold back on spending, the evidence that they’re thinking greener than ever continues to pile up. The latest is a study which reports that 54% of grocery shoppers say they “actively consider” a brand’s sustainability characteristics before tossing them in the basket. To read this article in its entirety click here. Don’t forget to visit Earth Promise  and begin creating your own personalized Earth Promise list. Earth Promise Interviews: Starting Next Week, Our Green Interviews Return!  First Interview…Ed Begley Jr. Tags: biodegradable, carbon footprint, change, changes, climate change, conservation, earth, earth promise, earthpromise, eco-friendly, education, energy, energy efficient, environment, environmental, environmental issues, environmentally friendly, global warming, green, green changes, green future, green living, green practice, green practices, green revolution, green tips, grocery, grocery manufacturers association, organic, recycling, save money, waste Posted in Uncategorized | No Comments »

Composting 101 Friday, May 1st, 2009 Composting.  I have to admit, it frightens me: the thought of our food scraps rotting in the scorching Florida sun just seems to be asking for a family of raccoons and other nocturnal rodents to invade and feast.  The more I research and people I talk with, I’ve discovered that your plants, flowers and shrubs are only as healthy as the soil that sustains them.   Organic materials ( i.e. leaves, grass clippings, coffee grinds, eggshells, banana peels, vegetables) that decompose over time transform into a richly, organic fertilizer.  Aggie-Horticulture explains, “Tiny living things do much of the work of breaking down organic materials to form compost. These tiny workers are called microorganisms and include such things as bacteria and fungi. Animals living in the soil help microorganisms break down organic materials. Worms and pill bugs are examples of soil animals that help change organic waste into compost. As microorganisms and soil animals turn organic materials into compost, they use the organic materials as food. The organic materials provide many of the nutrients that plants need for growth and activity. Eventually, these nutrients are turned to the soil, to be used again by trees, grass, and other plants. This is nature’s way of composting and recycling!!!” Many composting sites impart this crucial warning: don’t just throw anything and everything into your compost bin– meat, bones, fish, dairy products, grease, and oil all cause a dreadful odor and attract rodents.  I’m sure neophyte composters go through an experimental phase; but from what I’ve read, the benefits are so worth it. Here are some blogs and sites that give first-hand accounts of composting adventures along with information to start your own compost.  If you are a bit squeamish, keep in mind that compost is proven to be the best mulch and soil enrichment; it’s a fantastic way of reducing the amount of waste going to the landfills and it saves you money by reducing your fertilizer and landscaping bills. • My blogging comrade, Stefani Newman, founder of Teensygreen and blogger for Filter For Good  writes a candid view of her composting trials and tribulations.  Stefani also offers some great links to get you started. (For the additional installments of Stefani’s composting journey, click #2, #3, #4) • ComposTumbler boasts that you can “make a complete batch of compost, from start to finish, in just 14 days.” • Alison Ferguson, from Ezine Articles writes a play by play account of her experience with a compost • Clean Air Gardening  offers an impressive selection of compost bins. If composting is either a new undertaking or an everyday ritual for you, we’d love to hear your stories and input!  Also, be sure to add composting  to your list of Earth Promises. Tags: carbon footprint, change, changes, climate change, compost, compost bin, composting, conservation, Dino Tales, Dinosaurs, Dinosaurs Go Green, earth, earth promise, earthpromise, eco-friendly, education, energy, energy efficient, environment, environmental, environmental issues, global warming, green, green changes, green future, green living, green practice, green practices, green revolution, green tips, organic, recycling, save money, waste Posted in Uncategorized | 1 Comment »

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