GM’s Chevy Volt Named ‘Green Car of the Year’

General Motor Co.’s Chevrolet Volt, a plug-in vehicle intended to go as far as 40 miles solely on electricity, was named the 2011 Green Car of the Year at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The rechargeable model was selected over competing electric vehicles including Nissan Motor Co.’s battery-powered Leaf hatchback, said Ron Cogan, publisher of Green Car Journal, which sponsored the award. Volkswagen AG’s Audi diesel A3 TDI luxury car won the award last year.

Go Green: Are Eco Friendly Buildings More Lucrative?

A new study shows sustainable buildings will be more lucrative than traditionally managed properties, reports the Real Deal.

The study, which was run by CB Richard Ellis, McGraw-Hill Construction, and the University of San Diego, found that owners of green buildings nationwide expect a 4% higher return on their property investments and a 5% larger appreciation in their buildings' value than those who handle traditional properties.

Buildings with any level of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design certification or the Energy Protection Agency's Energy Star label were considered green properties, according to CB Richard Ellis. Most of the buildings analyzed also embraced other sustainable practices like recycling, adopting water conservation measures, and using environmentally friendly cleaning methods.

About 79% of the owners surveyed expect their property's green label to lure in enough tenants to bump up their building's occupancy by 5%. The managers also anticipate a 1% increase in rental income.

According to the Real Deal, 10% of green building residents reported improved productivity and 83% of the tenants felt their environment was healthier.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/real_estate/2010/11/18/2010-11-18_study_predicts_green_buildings_will_be_more_lucrative_than_traditional_propertie.html#ixzz15jVpzNRw

Philadelphia Eagles Plan to Go Green

The Eagles are taking their gridiron off the grid.

The team said Thursday it will add wind turbines, solar panels and a cogeneration plant at Lincoln Financial Field over the next year, a combination that will make the stadium self-sufficient and let the Eagles sell some power back to the electric grid.

Eagles owner Jeffrey Lurie said the plan was part of the Eagles' commitment to be a socially responsible organization.

"Owning an NFL team, I think you have an opportunity to lead the way," Lurie said.

Under the plan, approximately 80 spiral-shaped wind turbines will be mounted on the stadium's roof and 2,500 solar panels attached to the stadium's facade. Together, they will contribute an estimated 30 percent to the total energy production.

An onsite "dual-fuel" cogeneration plant, a small power plant that captures its heat for increased efficiency powered by biodiesel and natural gas, will contribute the rest of the energy. The system is designed to produce at least 8.6 megawatts of power, enough to meet the stadium's peak energy use of around 7 megawatts.

Read more: Eagles planning to go green at Lincoln Financial - The Denver Post http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_16653870#ixzz15jUhfEmP
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Go Green By Saving Rainwater

Rainwater barrels are both an old and modern practice. Collecting the runoff from your home’s drainpipe is a simple way to maximize natural resources and go green without straining your region’s water supply. Collecting rainwater is easy and can benefit both wet and arid climates.

What is rainwater used for?

It works best for watering your plants, shrubs and garden. Generally, rainwater must be treated to be drinkable. Rainwater is also free of additives like chlorine and fluoride, making it better for plants.

What’s the environmental benefit?

Harvesting rainwater obviously reduces the demands on your local water supply. But it also keeps runoff water from entering the storm drain system, reducing erosion and the amount of pesticides that wash into water systems. Harvesting can also keep your garden alive during summer months if your area undergoes water restrictions.

Is water from my roof safe?

Most roofs are fine to collect water from, but those made of treated shakes, copper and asphalt may add contaminants.

What are the downsides of collecting rainwater?

Two words: mosquitoes and algae. Avoid mosquitoes by fitting your barrel with a screen, or using Mosquito Dunks tablets. Prevent algae by using an opaque container and keeping it out of direct sunlight.

Can harvesting rainwater save money?

Yes, but do your math carefully. Simple rain barrels cost between $80 and $130 or more, and they hold about 50 gallons of water. You can buy multiple barrels to save more water, or make your own out of a clean plastic barrel to save money.

How much water will I collect?

The Saving Water Partnership at Washington State –– an area that’s no stranger to rainwater –– offers a calculation to find out how much rainwater you can expect to collect. First, multiply your home’s length by its width (in feet) to estimate its ‘footprint.’ Then, estimate the portion of your roof that drains into a single downspout. Researchers say that one inch of rain falling on a single square foot of surface yields about 0.6 gallons of water. So, the equation is:

Inches of rain X 0.6 X home’s footprint = Rainwater caught (in gallons)

Getting started

While harvesting systems can be elaborate, basic ones are simple to construct or purchase. Even the simplest rain barrel should have the following:

• A storage barrel or container (preferably plastic).
• A device or system for diverting water from your downspout into the container.
• A device to direct overflow water into nearby soil, away from the house.
• A valve or spigot for attaching a hose.
• Rot-resistant construction and screens or filters to keep debris out of the water.

Did you know?

Rainwater harvesting dates back to the 9^th and 10^th century in Asian civilizations, where rain dripping off roofs would be captured in small jars or pots.

Bill Clinton Announces Financing for 16 Cities to Go Green

Former President Bill Clinton (speaking at a press conference in New York) announced that 16 cities will receive financing to facilitate the transition to "go green" as part of global plan to reduce carbon emissions and save energy. The sixteen cities are based around the world and include New York, Chicago, Houston, Tokyo, Berlin, London, and Rome, among others.

Bill Clinton's foundation has arranged for four major energy service companies and five global banking institutions, which include Citi, JP Morgan Chase, and Deutsche Bank, to contribute $1 billion each to help finance the cities movement to "go green". The cities will perform widespread renovations of buildings and factories, utilizing new technology to cut carbon emissions and save energy.

Quoted in an Associated Press article on Yahoo News, former President Bill Clinton said, "If all buildings were as efficient as they could be, we'd be saving an enormous amount of energy and significantly reducing carbon emissions. Also, we'd be saving a ton of money."

Bill Clinton made the announcement alongside the mayors of several cities, including Mayor Bloomberg, who was quoted in the Associated Press article on Yahoo News as saying, ""It really is groundbreaking; it really is going to make a difference."

The meeting of Bill Clinton and the mayors is the second such meeting of the C40 Large Cities Climate Summit, which was created for the purpose of devising and sharing strategies to combat climate change and enable cities to become more energy-efficient.

Many cities across the world, including Chicago, have already taken steps to "go green", and have managed to save huge amounts in energy costs over the past several years as a result.

Bill Clinton wants his foundation to expand the number of cities that will receive financing in future months. In an Associated Press article on Yahoo News, Warren Karlenzig, author of "How Green Is Your City?", said, "The technology is there; it's just that the financing has been missing."

Eco Friendly & Organic Clothing Ideas for Men

Going green is an intelligent, wise decision. With this guide, it will be quick and easy to find what you are looking for and you might even be surprised at how reasonably priced going green can be too. Why add update to your closet that are processed with chemicals and grown with pesticides, when you can buy clothing that is eco-friendly, cotton grown without chemical pesticides and processed with natural methods for less?

1. Underwear - going green with your underwear is very smart. Nothing gets closer than underwear to your body.

2. White and Solid Color Shirts - these items of clothing tend to be very close to your skin so organic is definitely better!

3. Jeans - Organic jeans seem like they would be hard to find but they actually aren't. A lot of eco friendly companies make organic cotton jeans for men at great prices.

4. Sunwashed Tees (these look like stonewashed tees), Printed Tees, Socks, and Accessories

5. Dress Shirts and Pants - You can find these in organic cotton, hemp, and lots of other natural fabrics and materials!

6. Outwear and Shoes

Go Green With Eco Friendly Fashion

Paper or plastic? This is the question that we hear almost every time we go shopping, but I'm here to tell you that the best answer is "neither." Reusable tote bags are not only eco friendly and good for the environment, they are also the gift that keeps on giving because they are reusable.

Reusable Tote Bags are the Way to Go

When plastic bags are processed, not only is it incredibly energy inefficient, but it creates a lot of pollution. The pollution is dangerous because when plastic is produced, PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is released into the environment. PVC is a type of plastic which is not biodegradable, it is difficult to recycle, and any attempts to burn it will emit a harmful gas.

When considering the dangers of producing plastic bags, paper bags are just as bad because in fact, it takes four times more energy to manufacture a paper bag than than it does to manufacture a plastic one. Therefore, the paper vs. plastic debate has no clear winner and reusable tote bags are simply the best alternative.

You can even take the conversation one step further by considering the benefits of organic cotton tote bags. Organic cotton is safer for the environment than other fabrics because it is manufactured without the use of harsh chemicals. Organic cotton is also very soft and durable, so it can be trusted not to give in to the weight of a watermelon.

Thanks to celebrities who get photographed leaving Whole Foods with tote bags instead of paper and plastic, companies worldwide have taken notice and began producing chic and stylish bags. This means that you can still go green without having to go grocery shopping with an ugly sack for a tote bag. I've actually seen very high end designers come out with beautiful bags that you would want to use even if you weren't filling them with food.

Go Green With Eco Friendly Toys

People often wonder how they can involve their children in their efforts to go green. The best way to do this is by purchasing eco friendly toys, while explaining the importance of going green to the kids. This way, they can benefit from eco friendly products while learning a thing or two about sustainable living at the same time.

Eco Friendly Materials Make the Difference

When looking for the most environmentally safe toys, the materials used to make the toys can make all of the difference. For example, it is important to look for products that are made with water-based paint because the water base creates considerably fewer CO2 emissions and chemical waste. You should also try to stay away from imported toy products because the delivery process is incredibly inefficient.

I would also recommend using products that are made with rubber wood instead of regular wood. Rubber wood is more environmentally safe because it is sustainable. Along the same lines, it is best to buy dolls and action figures that are dressed with organic wool and cotton clothing. These organic fibers are better because they are harvested from plants that haven't been genetically altered or exposed to pesticides. For this reason, manufacturing organic wool and cotton is better for the environment because organic fibers do not create the type of chemical pollution that leads to global warming and the greenhouse effect.

If you are interested in giving a child an eco friendly birthday present, wrapping paper made from recycled materials would make a real difference. Also, after the present has been opened you can recycle the wrapping paper and continue the eco friendly cycle.

Asbestos and the Environment

The 1940s brought about a change in the way builders insulated schools and homes. Asbestos was a widely accepted means of insulation, because it was affordable, easy to handle and fire retardant. After years of research, scientists have discovered just how dangerous asbestos can be when inhaled, especially in large quantities. Now, when people think of asbestos, they usually think of the harmful effects that it can cause to the lungs and respiratory system. Scientists and doctors now know that asbestos fibers and dust can be inhaled, where they lodge in the mesothelium, the lining surrounding vital internal organs. This is the only know cause of the deadly cancer known as mesothelioma. What people might not realize is that asbestos is not only harmful to the human body, but to the environment as well. While asbestos was banned in the 1970s, older buildings which have not been renovated may still contain asbestos.

Effects of Asbestos on the Environment

Asbestos is usually disposed of in landfills after secure placement in plastic bags. Landfills are used for disposal because there is a reduced atmospheric risk of wind picking up the asbestos and spreading the fibers. Landfills can be considered hazardous to the environment because they pollute the ground and increase the chances of contaminating groundwater. Landfills have been known to release greenhouse gases, which can be a danger to people living near the waste lands. The dumping of asbestos into landfills can contribute to the hazardous effects of landfills.

Today, we find asbestos in products we commonly use, such as brake pads, flooring felt, pipeline wrap, and commercial, corrugate and specialty papers. When these products begin to break down in landfills, asbestos can enter and contaminate the air and the water. If asbestos is released into the air, the small fibers can remain there for a long time. Larger pieces are heavier and will fall to the ground more quickly. The release of asbestos into the air poses potential issues to residents of the areas because the inhalation of asbestos is what causes different types of respiratory issues like mesothelioma. Because asbestos fibers cannot move through soil and dirt, they will not be broken down to other compounds that are found in the environment. This means asbestos stays in the environment for a long time.

Asbestos Found Naturally in the Environment

Widespread use of asbestos over many years, despite a ban on asbestos use in the building industry, continues to harm the environment. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral, usually found in underground rock. More often than not, the contaminated rocks are too far underground to pose a hazard. These underground rocks cannot be easily disturbed, therefore they typically do not release the hazardous fibers.

Some areas of the world have asbestos-bearing rocks so close to the surface that human activity, such as construction work, can disturb the asbestos particles. Places in the United States that have asbestos rocks include parts of California, Virginia, and New Jersey. Other parts of the world, such as Turkey and Corsica, also have rocks that contain asbestos. Australia is particularly rich in asbestos, and it is here we see the highest incidence of mesothelioma cases

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Eco Friendly Travel Ideas

A vacation is an excellent opportunity to go green because eco friendly traveling is better for your budget, and better for the environment. This is especially important to keep in mind if you are interested in visiting a foreign country where tourism can have a negative effect on the town and environment.

How to Go Green While on Vacation

A popular type of green travel is ecotourism, which involves traveling to a natural location where your tourism helps to sustain the local population and protect nature at the same time. For example, visiting a tropical destination such as the Amazon and buying a lot of the local goods in order to fuel their economy would be a good example.

Another type of green travel which is similar to ecotourism is sustainable tourism, which is the act of preserving natural resources and eco friendly cultures while traveling. An excellent example of sustainable tourism would be if you went backpacking through South America and along the way, you stayed at solar powered hotels and supported other types of alternative energy.

Backpacking in general is a really good example of how you can go green while you travel because backpacking doesn't involve using as much fuel as would be used if you either drove or flew. The downside of backpacking is that it is very exhausting. Therefore, if you don't plan on breaking a sweat during your vacation, there are still some eco friendly alternatives available.

One suggestion is to use a train or a ferry boat instead of driving or flying to every destination. You can also reduce your carbon footprint by staying at hotels and motels that practive eco friendly practices such as recycling and using renewable energy resources.

6 Ways to Go Green in Your Bathroom

The first thing you can do to go green in your bathroom is to turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth! Now, no one can argue with this free go green lifestyle tip. There is no need to leave the water running while you scrub away! You will save money on your water bill and not waste water!

Continuing with the water theme try checking out you local home improvement store for a low flow shower head. This affordable go green bathroom idea will coat you less than $20 and save thousands of gallons of water and again lower your water bill. Double whammy for you there.

Now, for a pricier go green bathroom tip try replacing your existing toilet with a low flow toilet. Trust me; they still work. They just use less water to flush the toilet! If replacing your toilet is not in your budget, then please make sure you do not have a toilet that is continually running. This can waste gallons of water per day and raise you water bill drastically! Your low flow toilet will pay for itself over its lifetime, so this is really a great investment, especially if you are already remodeling your bathroom anyway!

Now, for more affordable ways to go green in you bathroom try using recycled toilet paper. I find 100% recycled toilet paper at Trader Joe's for the same cost as the regular stuff at the grocery store. Recycled toilet paper does not have to cost an arm and a leg!

Another way to affordably go green in you bathroom is to clean with eco-friendly cleaners. These are cleaners that do not release toxin into the air, your lings, and your children's lungs. You can find eco-friendly cleaner at you local grocery store or make your own with vinegar!

Finally, the next time you paint your bathroom, use a recycle paint from your local home improvement store. Using recycled paints will keep paints from filling landfills throughout your lifetime!

Green Life-Healthy lifestyle Tips

How can you go green in your daily routine? First, you have to look at the food you eat, so you can be able to enjoy a healthy lifestyle. You have to understand that most foods have certain elements, which are essential in keeping you healthy. Diets rich in fruit and vegetables are excellent for someone who wants to enjoy a green life.

Other than enjoying a healthy diet, you also have to exercise regularly preferably in the mornings. Living a healthy lifestyle starts in the morning with a morning exercise routine.
Living green will be easier when you follow a daily schedule so you know when to exercise and when to sit down for meal. Most people skip breakfast because they lack a system to follow when it comes to healthy meals.

Stay away from bad habits like smoking and consuming too much alcohol since these habits have a negative effect to your health. Instead of smoking and drinking, participate in social activities. You can join a local club or you can volunteer your time and talents especially activities that involve movement so you can stay healthy.

Green Life-Benefits of Vitamin B Complex

What is Vitamin B complex?

Vitamin B complex is a family of essential water-soluble vitamins that include vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin 5(pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin 7(biotin), vitamin B8 (insitol), vitamin B9 (folic acid) and vitamin B12 (cobalamins). Vitamin B complex plays an important role in the function, growth and development of the body.

Vitamin B complex converts food into energy a very good example is converting carbohydrates in to glucose and then the cells convert them into energy. Once you take vitamin B complex, you feel reenergized so it is essential for people who suffer from fatigue.

Vitamin B Complex Deficiency

The main causes of vitamin B complex deficiency are stress, poor diet, poor lifestyle, toxins due to pollution, toxins from personal care products, etc are some of the causes of vitamin B complex deficiency. People who are affected by this deficiency suffer from fatigue, indigestion, restlessness, gray hair etc.
　
Benefits of Vitamin B Complex

-More energy- Vitamin B complex helps in the production of energy in the body by converting carbohydrates into glucose.
-Stress reduction- consuming foods rich in vitamin B complex or taking the supplements will reduce stress levels, depression and irritability.
- Digestion- by producing hydrochloric acid, and inorganic compound that aids in digestion and helps in the breakdown of fats and proteins.
-Memory- Improves brain function and concentration levels
-Healthy skin, hair and nails- Vitamin B complex plays a role in the replacement of cells
-Nervous system- Vitamin B complex contributes to the healthy functioning of the nervous system
　
Learn More About vitamin B complex
　
　

Green Living-Aloe Vera Health Benefits

Aloe Vera is a great herbal supplement that can be used in gel form or juice. You can use Aloe Vera for nutritional or healing purposes as acne, itching skin or a weight loss supplement.
　
Tropical Remedy-Aloe Gel

Aloe Vera has a long history has a topical remedy and is excellent as a first aid soothing gel for burns, wounds or scalds. Aloe leaves have soothing anti-inflammatory effects. Aloe gel is excellent for acne, eczema or other skin condition because of its history of healthy skin and beauty.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a great anti-inflammatory as well as anti viral and anti bacterial great properties for making beauty and topical lotions.

Benefits of drinking Aloe Vera juice will help with the following conditions:
-acne
-ulcers and colitis
-constipation
-bladder and kidney infection
-irritable bowel syndrome
-anti cancer

Using Aloe Vera as a natural supplement is one way of green living since Aloe Vera is free from all the chemicals.

Do you use Aloe Vera as a Supplement?

Top Rated Herbal Supplements

Go Green With Eco Friendly Fashion

The fashion world is consumed with following all of the hottest and newest trends, and it seems like going green is all the rage. Eco friendly style is really beginning to catch on, mostly thanks to the celebrities that have made green fashion statement and encouraged the rest of us to do the same.

Green is the New Black

I remember the days when eco friendly fashion consisted of hemp dresses and frumpy sandals. In other words, going green with your style used to be lame because there weren't many fashion forward options. Thankfully, the fashion world has caught up with our need to save the environment, and green style is hotter than ever.

An easy way to make your wardrobe greener is to start buying clothing made out of natural fabrics. Some examples are cotton, wool, silk, linen, hemp, and jute. These fabrics are considered natural because their fibers come from animal coats, plant seeds, silkworm cocoons, stems, and leaves.

Another suggestion is to wear fabrics that are colored with natural dyes. Natural dyes come from plants, insects, and minerals, and they are recommended because they produce a significantly lower amount of pollution and require less energy to manufacture.

Green Living-The Benefits of Green Living

Green living is starting to be a way of life from food, housing and the demand for green products. More people are changing their lifestyles to encompass a healthier lifestyle.
Protecting the planet is no longer the responsibility of only the government but everyone has to play a role in order to protect out environment and the world we live in.

Benefits associated with living green are numerous the main one being allowing others to benefit from our efforts. Our efforts mean others are able to breath easier and enjoy their surroundings.
　
Green Living At Home

A green home is extremely important for healthy living. Building a sustainable home or renovating one will ensure an environmentally and resource efficient home. The new green building technologies reduce the overall building impact on human health and the environment.

Your green home should be:

- Energy, water efficient
-Free of waste, pollution and environmental degradation.

A green home does allow you to earn tax incentives for energy efficient appliance and green products.

Recycling You Waste

Green living means you have to be responsible especially when it comes to disposing unwanted items. Recycling is the best option for a greener planet. You can start by keeping aluminum cans, bottles, newspapers, empty boxes separate from the rest of the trash so they can be recycled.

You can also start shopping for products, which are biodegradable so they do not pile up in the landfill. Avoid the use of plastic when shopping use only reusable bags.

Green living is a great example to pass down to our children who will in turn conserve the forests and protect the endangered species so that future generations find a place to live on this planet. Slow down greenhouse effects, global warming and carbon emissions for a perfect planet.

Green Products

10 Easy Ways to Make Your Business Go Green

Whether you run a home-based business or a brick-and-mortar retail business an off-site enterprise, there are simple, easy things you can do to go green. And operating a green business is not only good for the environment but good for your business's bottom line because conserving resources and cutting down on waste saves money.

Go green by:

1. Turning off equipment when it's not being used. This can reduce the energy used by 25 percent; turning off the computers at the end of the day can save an additional 50 percent.

2. Encouraging communications by email, and reading email messages onscreen to determine whether it's necessary to print them. If it's not, don't!

3. Reducing fax-related paper waste by using a fax-modem and by using a fax cover sheet only when necessary. Fax-modems allow documents to be sent directly from a computer, without requiring a printed hard copy.

4. Producing double-sided documents whenever possible.

5. Not leaving taps dripping; always close them tightly after use. (One drop wasted per second wastes 10,000 liters per year.)

6. Installing displacement toilet dams in toilet reservoirs. Placing one or two plastic containers filled with stones (not bricks) in the toilet's reservoir will displace about 4 liters of water per flush - a huge reduction of water use over the course of a year.

7. Finding a supply of paper with maximum available recycled content.

8. Choosing suppliers who take back packaging for reuse.

9. Instigating an ongoing search for "greener" products and services in the local community. The further your supplies or service providers have to travel, the more energy will be used to get them to you.

10. Before deciding whether you need to purchase new office furniture, see if your existing office furniture can be refurbished. It's less expensive than buying new and better for the environment.

The Secret to Buying Eco Friendly Lipstick

Lipstick has to be the safest product because you apply on your lips therefore easy to ingest. Lead is one dangerous chemical found in some lipsticks so you have to be careful.

The government does not have a strict regulation on lipsticks so you have to be proactive in taking care of your health. Many people think since there are very low levels in some lipsticks that it is not dangerous to your health. The danger is more profound especially when other toxins are added to the mix. Toxins such as phthalates mixed with biphenyl-A with methyl mercury mixed with dioxins. Looking for an eco friendly option is your best choice.

Shop for lipsticks with ingredients you are familiar with, like natural butters, botanical extracts, flowers or essential oils. They have to be free from paraben, hypoallergenic, dermatologist tested and not tasted on animals.
　
You want to look beautiful then look for products that will enhance your beauty and health. Make sure your lipstick has nutrients so your lips are healthy and beautiful.

Eco Friendly Beauty

Human Activities May Reduce Climate Change -- Why Is This Bad News?

With all the evidence of human-induced global warming, you'd think it would be good news that some of our activities, are also helping to cool the atmosphere. Unfortunately, the opposite is often true. This is starkly illustrated by a new study showing the regional cooling effects of mass irrigation. So why is this such a bad thing?

It turns out that much like cooling off in the sun after a swim, or sweating to release heat, irrigation creates a cooling effect by absorbing some of the sun's radiation and using it to evaporate water instead of heating the soil.

The effect is very regionalized and also very temporary—in fact irrigation has little to no impact on climate change on a global level. But in heavily irrigated areas, the actual effect on climate may be even stronger than warming from CO2 and other greenhouse gases!

The trouble is that many of the most heavily irrigated regions in the world are in danger of depleting the aquifiers which the farmers rely on. If this happens, these major food growing regions could be hit by the double whammy of massively reduced water resources and a sudden increase in average temperatures.

The study's authors argue that future climate models need to pay close attention to the effects of irrigation in order to get an accurate picture of regional climatic changes. Farmers might do well to start exploring more efficient water use if they'd like a more gradual transition from these artificially cooled micro-climates to something more resilient.

How Home Businesses Can Go Green

When it comes to going, green home businesses are no exception. Running a green home business will save you money in the end. What does going green mean to a home business owner?

The good news is going green in your home business does not mean you have to buy new equipment. You just have to learn to use the equipment you have more efficiently. Efficiency in your business will mean more money for your home business.

Since your business is home based you will need to ensure you are not using more energy than is necessary. Reducing your overall energy consumption will translate to huge savings since energy is the most expensive for any home.

Consider this simple ways to go green in your home business:

1. Turn off your light-use natural light as much as possible.
2. Set your computer and printers to go to sleep when not in use
3. Replace your light bulbs with compact fluorescents.
4. Consider a programmable thermostat to reduce energy consumption
5. Unplug all your electronics when not in use for long periods

Green Home Business

Organic Cosmetics

Why organic cosmetics? According to Cancer Prevention Coalition there are over 300,000 injuries related to cosmetics. This something most people are not aware of, you need to know the dangers of chemicals found in regular cosmetics, change to products, which are organic /eco friendly for your beauty.

The chemicals of great concern are Phthalates found in nail polish, lotions, and deodorants, formaldehyde is in baby soap, nail polish, hair dyes, parabens are preservatives in May products, and lead is found in lipsticks and hair dyes.

There is no standard for organic cosmetics yet, so you need to understand the contents of your beauty products.

Consider organic cosmetics with excellent nutrients for your skin, brighten you skin tone, pH balanced and is hypoallergenic. Make sure your skin care products are rich in vitamins E and A for softness and moisture retention.

Organic Products

Vitamin D Supplement

Why Do You Need Vitamin D?

In order to absorb calcium and promote bone growth, your body needs vitamin D. Without it, you can end up with soft, brittle bones which is known as rickets in children, or you can get fragile, misshapen bones as an adult which is referred to as osteomalacia. Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to various other health risks such as cancer, heart disease, depression, and weight gain.

Aside from helping you build strong bones, vitamin D also helps regulate the immune and neuro-muscular systems, while also increasing the vitality of human body cells.

Did you know that the sun can affect your vitamin D intake? Adequate exposure to sunlight allows your body to produce its own vitamin D. As a result, people who live in the northern areas are at risk due to lack of regular sunlight. Furthermore, darker skin does a better job at absorbing sunlight so if your skin is fair, make sure you get enough sun so you can be as healthy as possible!

What Are Eco Friendly Products?

It is becoming clear that lately, more and more companies are starting to support the green movement by either going green themselves, selling eco friendly products, or both. This is a good sign for both the environment, as well as you and me because it means that sustainable and energy efficient products are easier to get now than they used to be. There is also a wider range of eco friendly products that are available.

For example, Energy Star is a company that was created by both the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE) in order to promote energy efficient products. Energy Star sells everything from energy efficient light bulbs, to computers. Their purpose is to offer a product line that helps the environment, and helps you and me save money. In fact, Energy Star users saved $19 billion in utility bills in 2008 alone.

If you're not quite ready to commit to brand new appliances, water filters are a very effective and inexpensive way to increase the energy efficiency of your home. By placing a water filter on your kitchen sink instead of buying water bottles, you will help the environment because it takes a lot of energy to process plastic and deliver the bottles. Water filters are also an excellent money saver because water from the tap is free, whereas bottled water can cost $10 for just one pack.

The main goal of going green is to help the environment by changing wasteful habits. The process doesn't need to be overwhelming because it isn't necessary to completely renovate life as you know it. Trust me, every little change makes a difference.

How to Be Eco Friendly

What Does It Mean to "Go Green"?

The "go green" movement is becoming more and more popular because it's clear that green and sustainable living is the best living for us, and for the environment. The concept of living an eco-friendly lifestyle doesn't necessarily require you to sacrifice the things that you love in life, all you have to do is make a few adjustments that will make a difference.

For example, you don't have to renovate your entire house so it uses solar panels and solar energy. If you can afford to do this, it would be great, but most of us cannot. Therefore, you can still go green in your home by using energy saving light bulbs (ESLs) or using Energy Star appliances instead of standard ones.

What are the Benefits of Going Green?

Going green and living an eco-friendly lifestyle is beneficial to everyone because it is so rewarding. The results of global warming and the greenhouse effect are becoming more and more dire for Earth, as well as the human population.

If everyone could go green and use renewable energy, the environmental improvements alone would be amazing. Also, going green is an excellent money saver because gas and electricity don't exactly come cheap. Therefore, whether your motives are environmental, economical, or both, going green is clearly the best way to live your life in the years to come.

Drink a Glass of Wine and Live Long

Wine is not bad for you after all you can live long only if you do not over indulge. Dutch researchers did a research that showed a half a glass of wine per day would allow you to live long. Excessive drinking is not good for your health so drink in moderation.
　
Those who drink wine may also reduce the risk of inflammation or arthritis. A few years ago, Shaklee introduced Vivix a cellular anti-aging tonic -a dietary supplement. Vivix was developed after years of research. Vivix is rich in resveratol which a very important antioxidant.
　
The benefits of drinking red wine in moderation has been known for ages because red wine is high in flavonoids, which are antioxidant. Resveratrol is the most studied antioxidant from grape seeds and seeds. Red wine may also prevent cancer by limiting tumor growth. Antioxidants are important since they help prevent molecules known as free radicals from damaging cells.
　
Since all studies point to the goodness of drinking wine in moderation, go ahead and enjoy a glass. You also may want to consider getting Vivix from Shaklee because 3000 glasses of red wine: A 30-day supply of Vivix delivers the equivalent amount of resveratrol found in 3,000 glasses of red wine-Enjoy!

Acai Berry Scam

Ever seen those ads that promise you weight loss- Turns out the company marketing these weight loss products has been deceiving people for a long time. They charge you a small fee of $4.95 for shipping then turn around and bill your credit card $68.00.

Acai berry in itself is a great antioxidant and fiber but experts believe people were lied to through some fake testimonials and slick marketing tricks to believe they can actually lose weight.

Listen to the experts-According to the Mayo Clinic website: “…research on acai berries is limited, and claims about the health benefits of acai haven’t been proved.” and And the American Dietetic Association weighs in with this: “…no human studies have yet found special health benefits from consuming acai.”

You are actually safe researching weight loss products before buying them. Companies like Shaklee have a very good weight loss product Cinch that is excellent. The advantage of buying from Shaklee is its outstanding reputation and the money back guarantee attached to every product.
　
Remember most diet fail to work because instead of you losing weight you lose the lean muscle instead. Moreover, that can set you up for future weight regain, because muscle is what burns calories. It’s key to your metabolism. Fat, on the other hand, is just—fat. Many diets also leave you feeling deprived, hungry, and finding time to prepare a healthy, nutritious meal can often be a real chore. When you are rushed, you often make poor choices, reaching for fast food or take-out options that are high in calories and fats and low in nutrition. How can you have a nutritious meal that is easy to prepare, tastes great, and will help you reach your weight loss goal? Learn More about Shaklee’s weigh loss products

Most of the acai berry ads have fine print disclosures so read them before buying otherwise you are better off trying Shaklee’s products since they have been in business for over 50 years with excellent reputation. Shaklee is also a green business so excellent for anyone who wants to enjoy a green lifestyle.

Green Home Products

Green home products are products with no impact to the planet during production and when disposed. Excellent green products always decrease carbon footprints, decrease carbon emission of greenhouse gases and conserve energy. Green home products have zero toxicity or pollution.


Green home products are biodegradable and recyclable. Most eco friendly products are easy to dispose and most are made from recycled materials. Since they are made from green by products that means they have zero toxic levels.


Anyone who wants to go green should start by buying green home products so you can save the planet from all the pollution and toxins brought by using non- eco friendly products. Look at the landfills and you will see the danger we face if we do not change our lifestyle.


Remember that green home products are good for the planet and your family’s health. Why spend years buying products that will make you sick? Going green at home is very easy and valuable thing to do. Buy green products today and create a better tomorrow for everyone else.

Green Life-Drinking Water Might Be Your Solution to Weight Lose

The new study gives hope to middle-aged men and women who want to lose weight the easy way. Those who fall under this category might only need to drink two cups of water before every meal to lose weight.

Well, if you fall under this category you will be much better drinking water than struggling with dieting. Simply drink water before every meal religiously, you will shade at least 15.5 pounds.


The study is good news although it will not apply to me for a while but I will still try the strategy. I quit drinking soda five years ago so water is my drink of choice. I know most people will find drinking water to be difficult but you have to understand dieting is hard and that is why most people fail.


Remember water is harmless and inexpensive compared to diet pills and diet books. You are actually better off drinking diet soda, tea,100% juice or club soda but I suggest water since most of your organs require water to function right.


Water is a valuable nutrient so it does make sense to drink water to lose weight and for good health. Just remember to filter your own water, this will save you money and you will also be earth friendly.

Green Life-Water Important To Your Health

Ever wondered why some people complain about weight issues and yet they still stop at their favorite drive through for a 32 oz coke? Water is the best choice.

Water is the most important supplement you can great for free or for pennies on the dollar unless you are still hooked to the bottled water. Your body consists of at least 55% to 78% depends on your weight you can see the importance of drinking water as part of your green life.

You are better of drinking water than drinking soda because with water you will be able to lose weight and enjoy good health. Remember every cell in your body needs water to function.
Do you want your skin to look young then drink water? Your muscle tone and skin elasticity will be excellent if you can stay hydrated at all times.

Dehydration can make you sick, constipated, backache, headache, pain etc. You can see the importance of water to your health is crucial.

Consider installing a water filtration system in your house since water bottles are not good for you because of the toxins from plastic are being leeched into the water. Best to buy water in glass bottle although filtering your own water will save you money and you will not need the plastic bottle. Plastic bottles increase the risk of cancer due to BPA (Bisphenol A) contamination especially when water in a plastic bottle is left under the sun in the car.

From now on just enjoy a glass of water and your life will be much better that is part of living a green life.

Green Life-Drinking Water Is Good For Your Health

Why is water important to your green life and health?

Your body needs water to regulate body temperature and transports nutrients to all parts of the body. Water transports oxygen to your cells, protects your joints, organs and removes waste. Remember your body is 60 to 70 percent water especially blood which contains more water.

How much water does your body require to stay healthy?

To get the right estimate you have to take your body weight in pounds and divide by two. For example if your weight is 140 pounds that means you, should drink at least drink 70 ounces of water per day? Twenty percent of the water your bodies will come from the foods you eat.

Remember water is the best choice when selecting a beverage. Sodas have a lot of sugar and so when you drink soda you will be taking in more calories than your body requires. Juices are excellent since they contain vitamins and nutrients and herbal teas, which are not diuretic, are good for you. Sports drinks are great because they contain electrolytes and may be beneficial but you have to avoid added sugar and calories.

Leading a green life means, you avoid buying bottle water since it leads to waste and it is expensive in the end. So consider a water filtering system, when looking for a water filter consider how much water you will need to filter. Enjoy a green life with good drinking water.

Pitcher filters are excellent for small households therefore consider a water filter made from sustainable products because you want a cleaner, healthier and cleaner, healthier planet. Learn More

Green Life-Fish Oil a Dietary Supplement

What is fish oil and why is this dietary supplement important to our health and green lifestyle?

First fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids (DHA and EPA) and does reduce inflammation. Fish oil is a dietary supplement, which is from cold-water fish like salmon, tuna, cod, herring, halibut and mackerel.

Fish oil plays an important role in our health because it lowers blood pressure, lowers triglycerides, protects against heart diseases and so many other ailments.

Fish Oil Supplement and Inflammation

Fish oil supplement will be of great value to you especially when struggling with ailments like lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, Reynaud’s phenomenon, psoriasis and may help people battling depression.

You can also get the benefits of fish oil by eating fish especially salmon but you would have to each so much fish for you to attain the therapeutic effect. You can also find fish oil in form of chewable tablets or capsules. The capsules have to contain at least 30% EPA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (Eicosapentaenoic acid).


Remember to get the recommendations from your doctor especially when using other medication because it might cause bleeding. You also have to avoid high doses because of bleeding, so very important to discuss the inclusion of fish oil supplement in your regimen with your doctor.


Always Look For Fish Oil without Mercury

Your choice of fish oil is very important because of mercury. You well know most fish contain mercury and selecting fish oil without mercury is critical to your health. Look for reputable companies when buying fish oil and that is why selecting companies with organic or eco friendly products is essential. Learn More

Green Life-Is Cholesterol Good Or Bad For You

Why is cholesterol good and bad? It is good because it does sustain some functions in our bodies and it is bad because too much of it can lead to deadly diseases. Recently I stopped at my doctors to have a cholesterol check up and it turned out great because by nature I am a vegetarian. I started to wonder why is so much fear put into cholesterol -Are people misinformed or what? Here are my findings:


What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver. It is normally waxy in texture, you can control cholesterol by eating less fatty foods like pizza, pastries, ice cream or you can select the healthier options.

Eating high fatty foods leads to cholesterol being excessive in the body resulting in life threatening diseases such as coronary artery disease, stroke, heart attack or cerebral vascular.

Cholesterol is essential to our health

How is cholesterol essential? First, it does produce hormones, vitamin D and helps with building of cell walls. Cholesterol also helps in creating bile salts, which help in our digestive system.

Foods Important in maintaining good levels of cholesterol

*Eggs
*Meats
*milk
*cheese
*vegetables
*nuts
*olive oil
*etc

Types of cholesterol

Good Cholesterol -High-density lipoproteins…HDL…Good for our health
Bad Cholesterol- Low density lipoproteins…LDL…Create excessive fat in the blood streams



How can you reduce cholesterol?

First you have to watch what you eat especially foods with excessive fat or oily foods.
Here are some steps you can take today to ensure you succeed:

*Start by looking for low cholesterol foods like whole wheat breads, cereals, beans, fruits and fish
*Use olive oil or other healthy oils instead of the fat filled oils for cooking
* If possible, consume vegetarian diet
* Select milk and yogurt, which are low in fat content
* Avoid fried foods instead select steamed, baked, boiled or roasted foods
*For non-vegetarians select lean meats
*Keep you colon healthy and reduce cholesterol by consuming foods, which are high in soluble fiber.


Keep Cholesterol at bay

Stop smoking and chewing tobacco-Tobacco use can lead to lower HDL, which results in blood clots and heart disease. Do what you have to do to kill this habit.

Avoid excessive alcohol consumption: Drink less alcohol and if you do not consume alcohol, it is better if you avoid starting because alcohol leads to obesity, heart problem and stroke.

Exercise- Physical exercise will help increase your HDL level (good cholesterol) Starting walking, gardening, swimming, dancing or any other physical activity because with exercise you will lower the chance of coronary disease.

Avoid Excessive weight-Lose weigh because extra weigh does increase your cholesterol levels.

Consuming a balanced diet will also help in lowering your cholesterol.

Learn more about products related to cholesterol that are good for your green life

Early Puberty In Young Girls May Be Linked To Exposure To Chemicals

What is happening? Now we have young girls maturing before they are even ten. I heard this story yesterday on NBC and read it on several news sites and I am still puzzled. Although the scientists are not 100% blaming exposure to chemicals, toxins and hormones but they are mentioning them in their reports.

I am a cancer survivor, lucky to be alive though disfigured for life. I started investigating chemicals and toxins after my diagnosis and that is how I started writing this blog after discovering that not every cleaning product in my house was good for me. I now read about every product before I ever bring it to my home-A lesson learned the hard way.

You really have to be a cancer patient to understand the agony these terrible disease. Now I am even more alarmed to hear our daughters are in danger of breast cancer because of the early onset of puberty-what a sad situation.

Beside hormones, chemicals, toxins which are dangerous to all children, the report also claims childhood obesity maybe to blame. As parents, we have to start watching what our children eat, make sure they exercise, understand the under lying danger behind our cleaning supplies and the chemicals in our homes.

Going to McDonald for breakfast, lunch and dinner is out of fashion. Cooking for your children is in style. Enjoy dinners out of the home occasionally but not fast food at least some place where your children will be served wholesome meals and not junk.

Those dinners, which are packaged, are not good for your children, they are convenient but they are unhealthy. Start reading the side panel and once you understand the contents maybe you will serve your children some fresh cooked food.

For my lesson came the hard way-Why not save your family from future agony by resorting to eco friendly products. It is not very hard to go green you just have to start-I hope your start day NOW.

Green Life-Choose An Eco Friendly Drain Cleaner

Since you have made a commitment to lead a green life, it is best if you can avoid the conventional drain cleaners like drano because of sodium hydroxide. Sodium hydroxide is an irritant that can burn skin and aggravate your nose, eyes, and throat. The conventional drain cleaners are also danger to your children and pets.

A plunger or a drain snake along with some effort can easily clear your drain without the use of these harmful cleaners. You can also mix a handful of baking soda with a half a cup of vinegar and pour down the drain then follow quickly with boiling water. You can actually use the baking soda and vinegar on weekly basis on all your drains and you will never have any trouble.

Flushing your drains weekly will keep them clear, you can also install a small screen to keep hair, lint and other clogging elements out of your drains. You will be saving if you maintain your pipes and prevent them from clogging.

Always select cleaning products which are eco friendly because they good for you and the planet-Learn More

Green Life-Deadly Danger Under The Sink

Do you know your children face incredible danger from the home cleaning products you store under the sink? Those colorful spray cleaners can be a serious temptation and sometimes deadly especially for toddlers. Remember it always happens in a blink of an eye.


Just look at the number of children treated for injuries related to house cleaning products-from 1990 to 2006 more than 267,000 reported cases of children under the age of five who received treatment for injuries from household cleaners.


Children end up in the emergency room all the time from ingesting dangerous chemicals found in household, cleaners especially bleach which is found in almost every home.


The child’s first reaction to the taste of the yucky household cleaner is taking a deep breath which sends the chemical to their lungs and that is where the chemical becomes dangerous.


Consider those brightly colored household cleaner bottles and sprays dangerous because children will confuse them for juice or something they love to eat. Spray bottles are especially dangerous because most parents forget to lock the nozzles.


The most dangerous household cleaners are those no longer in their original container so it is for the safety of your children if you can keep all cleaners in their original containers or label the spray bottles and lock them up. The brightly colored and the sweet smelling housecleaners are especially dangerous especially those that smell like lemon or any other fruit since children are likely to confuse these deadly solvents for fruit juice. Learn more about the dangers of household cleaners to your children


The toxic levels in most household cleaners is alarming, just read the side panel of your household cleaning product and you will realize you have poison in your home. The best way to avoid all these is to get home cleaning products, which are non-toxic especially if you want to enjoy living green.


Natural cleaners are always safe and incase your child does accidentally ingest them the damage will be minimal although you should always be careful with any type cleaner. Green cleaners are widely available now although you still have to buy them from reputable companies where products are never tasted on animals and are always green-Learn More

Green Life-Ways To Help Your Children Go Green At Home And School

Children pick up information fast especially when they start school where they become increasingly aware of the wider world beyond home and the neighborhood. So teaching your children about the benefits of living green will help your understand more about the environment and the importance of eco friendly habits at home, school or in the community.


Teach your children the basics of a green lifestyle and they will not forget especially when they become responsible adults. Creating a generation, that value good healthy, excellent environment is a step towards saving the planet.


Lessons To Last A lifetime


Recycling


Teach your children from the beginning the importance of recycling by setting up a simple system with bins for glass, newspapers, metal and plastic. They can also learn to recycle for profit or charity. Also, remind your children to donate or sell toys and clothing before buying new ones. The system will help your home stay organized and your children happy.


Turn Off Water


From the beginning, teach your child to turn off the water when brushing teeth. Explain to them the importance of water conservation because wasting water means wasting energy and the natural resources.


Turn off The Lights


Teach your children the importance of turning off the lights when not in use. Also unplugging their games systems, television etc when not in use. Teaching your child these basics will lower your utility bill and you will be instilling a lifetime habit.


Teach your children these green life basics and you will set standards for the future when everyone will be more involved in protecting the environment.

Learn More about the products which are exellent for a green life

Green Life- Steps To Green Living

Are you looking for simple steps to start living a green life? Remember you do not have to ditch your car for hybrid or install a solar system. You can start your green lifestyle by not buying stuff you do not need. Reuse what you already have or sell some stuff before you buy more.



Do not go and buy a new hybrid can to prove you have gone green; you will be missing the point as to why people choose a green living. Why get in debt instead of keeping the same car you have paid off. Just take it for regular tune-up, oil change and other basic car maintenance. Buy a hybrid only if you have extra money or your old car is a clunker.


Now here is an easy way to enjoy a sustainable living, recycle, reuse, remake and you will be doing yourself some good as well as the planet. In most cities, it is mandatory to recycle and some even offer money in exchange for soda cans, bottles, old magazines and newspapers. Remember the landfills are bursting with all the waste from our never-ending consumerism.


Green living becomes even easier when you decide on green energy. The best way to go about this environmentally friendly idea is to change your light bulbs. Consider installing LED lights and changing everything else that uses energy to green technology-Your computer, printer or appliances. Saving energy is a big part of green living.


Another easy way to start living green is to change what you buy in the grocery store. Start shopping for food that is free of chemicals and always stick with eco products.

Buy green and you will lead a healthy life plus you will be saving the planet.

Walking is one simple way to enjoy a green lifestyle without spending money. Why not start walking today; it is good for your health. Walking is one way of appreciating nature and what it offers-beauty.

Always shop green cleaning products, avoid cleaning supplies that contain bleach, ammonia, and other industrial chemicals. You can make your own green products or buy them. You will enjoy good healthy and the beauty of the planet if you can start living green today.

Green Life -Avoid Supplements Containing The Following Ingredients

The consumer report for September lists the different ingredients found in supplements and the reasons why you should avoid them.


What is Aconite?


Aconite is normally used in traditional medicine of India and China. The herb is considered hot and toxic and so it is prepared in small doses.

Aconite also known as aconiti tuber, aconitum and radix aconiti

Normally people use supplement-containing aconite to alleviate inflammation, joint pain, wounds and gout.


Any supplement containing Aconite has possible dangers of toxicity, nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, respiratory-system paralysis, heart rhythm disorders or even death. According to the latest report from the consumer reports published recently for the September edition.


The report goes on to warn about the dangers of using supplements with aconite as one of the ingredients. There are also other ingredients found in supplements that might be dangerous to your health.


Bitter Orange also known as aurantii fructus, citrus, uranium, zhi shi -the ingredients from bitter orange are suppose to help with weight loss, nasal congestion and allergies.


The possible dangers related to bitter orange are fainting, heart-rhythm disorders, heart attack, stroke or death. So if you have bitter orange in any of your supplements please read the consumer report for September.


I was concerned when I saw aconite and bitter orange because I had products with those ingredients and thank God, I never used them. I actually did not like the taste so they were in my medicine cabinet until they expired. I did not know the dangers but something told me they were nasty.

Anyway, here is the rest of the list:

Chaparral, colloidal silver, coltsfoot, comfrey, country mallow, Germanium, Greater Celandine, Kava, Lobelia and Yohimbe.


Check all your supplements for the above ingredients and go to consumerreports.org for more information. You are better of being safe than sorry.


I did switch from the products with aconite, bitter orange to some I actually like the taste, and I am happy to say they have undergone rigorous scientific tests anyway click HERE for a list of some alternatives. I also need to tell you they are natural and green so check them out and let me know what you think, you are free to email me using the form above.

Green Life-Preserve Your Own Food By Canning

Preserving your own food will require some work but the benefits you will rip will surpass any labor required. The best way to make canning fun is to involve family and friends so they too can enjoy the home preserved food too.


Canning your own food is not only a money saving venture but you will also be eating healthy. Fall season is actually the best month to start canning although you can start canning as soon as your tomatoes or carrots are ready.

The satisfaction that comes with home food preservation is far more than the work involved. Looking at a pantry full of your own home canned food is incredible.


I like preserving collards, spinach, carrots and tomatoes from my own garden and the taste I get from my home preserved food is very satisfying. You cannot compare the taste to store preserved options.


You will also save money when you purchase your canning jars during off-season. This will be a major saving for you because they are sometime really very cheap $3.00 for 12 cans, which you can also reuse.


You can also look for canning recipes in cookbooks or you can come up with your own creative mix. I actually came up with my own recipe where I sautéed collards, spinach, broccoli, tomatoes and onions and my kids love it because they do not like broccoli but since it is in the mix.


Eating food that is as natural as possible is the best way to live a healthy and long life. Try canning your own food, you can even get some from the farmers market or the cooperative, either way they are good source for healthy and natural food.

Green Life-Buy Your Foods in Bulk

I figured out something very interesting recently about buying food in bulk. I discovered that when you buy food in bulk, you are buying food without the extra costs for packaging and marketing. The saving are huge especially if you purchase your food from a cooperative store.

I am very lucky to have one in town in it is a treasure. The cooperative store in my city nearly closed last year because few people were purchasing food from them. I wish most families could understand the value of buying natural food products.

I also discovered that when I buy organic pasta, organic wheat floor, organic rice and beans I get a 20% discount and means I actually paying only pennies on the dollar. Do you have a cooperative in your hometown? Consider shopping there for a change and you will see the difference.

Before buying in bulk check your eating habits so you can buy only the food products you consume regularly in bulk which add up to a huge saving.

The best strategy here is to buy in bulk foods you consume regularly. You will also need to prepare a dry area to store your produce away from water and bugs.

The beauty of buying in a cooperative is that they only get organic foods; it is more like a farmers market because they get all their supplies from the local farmers. Natural products are good for your health so you should consider changing to eco friendly products too.

Green Life-Grow This Sugar Substitute-Stevia

What is Stevia?


Stevia is an herb that is much sweeter than sugar and almost calorie free. Stevia was grown in Paraguay and Brazil for centuries. Stevia was first introduced to the market by a Japanese food chemist but it did not gain interest until the late 1980’s.

The advantage of Stevia is that you can actually grow it with your other herbs and you will enjoy pure health because it does reduce blood sugar, blood pressure and good for your immune system. You will also gain benefits and protection from cancer, heart disease and stroke.

The large companies will soon be using Stevia to sweeten beverages and that is good news for those who are seeking healthy alternatives. I do not drink soda and I think when Stevia is finally used to sweeten soda I will go back to drinking soda for right now I am better off without the unhealthy soda.

Stevia is actually 15 times sweater than sugar yet is also healthy. So grow your own Stevia and you will not regret. Actually growing Stevia is not complicated at all as long as you buy the plant from the herb section in your local store. Do not buy the seedlings because they do not germinated well but a Stevia plant will thrive in your backyard especially if you live in Florida or California.

One other advantage you have is that Stevia has the approval of FDA as a supplement and so you should not have trouble growing and using

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Green Life-Money Saving Tips Without A Money Expert

How To Save Money By Living A Simple Life

Saving money, protecting the environment and living a full healthy life go hand in hand especially now with the uncertain economic times. It just makes perfect sense to stretch every dollar you have while enjoying a green lifestyle.

First you have to consider all the things you need to live a happier and healthy life and those you can do away with because sometimes you can burden your live with none essentials which end up taking all you money hence sending you into debt.

Comparison Shopping-Best Way To Save Money

The age of technology has made it a lot easier to do comparison-shopping, which is really a good idea if you are considering saving money and living a green lifestyle. You can do comparison-shopping for groceries, gas, general household products and it is even better when you are shopping for premium products like insurance, cell phone or banking. Therefore, whatever product or service you decide to purchase make sure you are getting the best deal and there by saving more money. However, it is always crucial to stick with essentials and avoid all the extra services that you might not need or want.


Can You DIY-Answer This Question Before Buying And You Will Save More Money


So many items can be made at home with very inexpensive materials. You can easily make your own shampoo, household cleaning products; fix a bike, cut hair, fix plumbing, house repairs and you can do your own yard work. All this and others you can brainstorm do not have to cost you money instead you can be creative and save money in the end.