General Motor Corp., an American automaker, plans to have an ambitious campaign to give its Chevrolet brand an environmental image. The company seeks to hold this plan to compete with the hybrid-master Toyota.

According to leading environmental activists at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the competition will be a tough sell. The idea has made Dan Becker, environmental consultant and longtime director of the Sierra Club’s global warming project, laugh. He said, “GM’s an environmental pariah… They have zero credibility as an environmental leader.”

Mark LaNeve, GM vice president for sales, service and marketing, is well-versed that the company possesses a bad reputation on the environment. Thus, the new marketing campaign shall be the first step in a long-term attempt to alter the image.

LaNeve mentioned that GM will be focusing on fuel efficiency, alternative fuels, hybrids on vehicles sold now as well as the Volt extended-range electric vehicle expected to go on sale in 2010. The company will also have a fleet of 100 zero-emission hydrogen fuel-cell Chevrolet Equinox SUVs tested by consumers in 2008.

Acknowledging the fact that the attempt will take a breakthrough vehicle like the Volt to change Chevrolet’s image, LaNeve said, “We are going to offer solutions for our company, the consumer, America and the environment.”

Considering that the world’s largest automaker Toyota is the one that dominates the hybrid market with its popular Prius, GM realizes that they are in long-term project. But, they know the challenge can be even tougher.

Becker said, “Most of the campaign’s claims are bunk” knowing that the E85 ethanol-gasoline blend key to GM’s claims is unavailable in California, he said, “They don’t have any credibility on these issues.”

In the campaign, Chevrolet will be touted with “Gas-friendly to gas-free” slogan. Chevrolet general manager Ed Peper said, “It’s critical to our brand that providing fuel solutions be part of our image… This is certainly not business as usual. Chevrolet really is changing at its foundation of how we power America.”

Jim Kliesch, senior engineer in the Union of Concerned Scientists’ clean vehicles program, said that GM needs more than a nifty slogan to change its image with environmental groups. He said, “Evaluating an automaker’s environmental performance based on an ad campaign is like judging how well somebody sings based on what kind of shoes they wear.”

Kliesch has given credit to GM as the American automaker began selling hybrid full-size trucks, including a Chevrolet Silverado pickup, and its development efforts on the Volt and fuel cells. But, he said, the automaker is lacking efforts against high fuel-economy standards.

Kliesch said, “It’s important to support policies to reduce carbon dioxide and raise fuel efficiency… GM and other automakers are lobbying against these standards. That does not jibe with the message they’re trying to send.”

Despite the criticism, GM is eager to pursue the campaign. LaNeve said that Chevrolet will be a leading environmental brand and “We want to be seen as the solution, not part of the problem.”

So from now on, Chevrolet vehicles are expected to be sustained with not just quality Chevy floor mats, but features that will provide benefits for the environment.

By: Evander Klum

About the Author:

The Eco Friendly trend continues to grow….not falling short of entering the home. For the past several years manufacturers of all the different industries and local retail stores have been in search of ways to save the environment - or at least preserve what can be. One can even find reusable grocery bags in local drug stores and supermarkets. It is really no surprise that the home décor industry is following suit. Consumers can purchase stylish lighting, furniture, art sculptures, floor décor, and a variety of other home accessories made from natural fibers and materials that are considered environmentally friendly.

A variety of elegant lighting is available to consumers from hanging fixtures, to desk lamps, wall sconces and floor lamps. All of which are made from economically safe materials. The modern-day rectangular shaped hanging light would be a perfect replacement to the traditional inlayed ceiling light in the kitchen or even above a pool table. The island style is unique in taste and modern. The ideal accent piece for any room would be the Winding Staircase Penshell Lamp. It is comprised of a pastoral iron featuring a winding staircase amidst surrounding pillars that leads up to a Penshell dome. The inlays of the Eggshell Wall Sconce are distinct in nature and add a nice touch to any hall or room.

Economically friendly furniture has also become a demand. Consumers can now fill the rooms of their homes with furnishings made from recycled wood. The quality and style are not discounted in any way. An elegant, traditionally round rosewood table would be a wonderful addition to a dining room. Scraps and strips of wood were collected and reformed to design the top and then completed with an economically friendly oil for protection. Matching recycled rosewood dining chairs are also available. They too are pieced together by hand and formed into a comfortable yet sturdy place to sit and enjoy a family dinner. Other tables such as end tables, coffee tables, and console tables are great additions to the home. Each follow the lead of the dining table being handmade and finished with a safe oil for protection.

Artistically sound sculptures can also be found and enjoyed by a variety of tastes. For the mask lover there are a variety of stone and shell masks. A blue base, turquoise, natural and white onyx are choices that are given. Each mask has been handcrafted and provides a different look and tells a different story. Their history dates back to over one thousand years ago. They are completed with a stone stand making them suitable for placement on a shelf or table. Wall mountable sculptures are also available. A beautifully handmade deer head sculpture would be a wonderful accent piece for a trophy room. The sculpture is made from a recycled teak wood that forms the deer’s head, antlers, and neck. Whether being used as a mount on the wall or on a table, each sculpture is hand formed from components that are collected and then remanufactured.

What room would be complete without floor accents? Truly unique in design, the Reclaimed Monkey Wood Vine Floor Screen can serve as a room divider and accent for any room in the home. Pieces from Monkey Wood Trees are hand formed to create this beauty. Banana Tree Bark and Rubber Wood Leaf inlays make up the Banana Bark Floor Décor Collection. Two vases of various sizes are grouped together into one package for an exotically, tasteful addition.

There is a variety of other accents that can be added to a consumer’s economically favored style: Coconut Shell House Motif Jewelry Box, White Capiz Shell Candlesticks, Turquoise Blue Penshell Vases, Turquoise Blue Penshell Candle Holders, Nautilus décor, the list could go on forever. The World has turned to salvaging itself and relies upon those that reside in it. Eco Friendly items can go as far as decorating a living room. The modern style surely adds to an artistic taste.

By: Kris Bond

About the Author:

It’s getting harder to go on holiday these days without feeling a little bit guilty.  This guilt is drummed into us when we read the news about how airlines are polluting the atmosphere, helping melt the ice caps.  Many of us may feel obliged to go on a camping holiday in the UK as opposed to getting our few weeks away in the Mediterranean sun. 

But going on holiday shouldn’t feel like this as chances are you’ll have worked hard all year to earn yourself the much deserved rest.  Of course you could just carry on regardless and take a plane to your usual destination but you may be in for a nasty shock as airline prices are gradually rising in response to environmentalists and the government urging passengers to use air travel less by increasing prices.

So what are the alternatives?  A wet weekend on a campsite? Well the alternatives include some interesting eco friendly holidays that can not only cut down your contribution to global warming but also contribute to reversing it!

One such destination for this kind of holiday is Sweden, sweden holidays comprise of many activities that fall under the category of ecotourism.  Activities such as Dog mushing are very popular especially since when you come to a stop there is a good chance you’ll have a perfect view of the Northern Lights; For those people who prefer less frozen climates there is still plenty to do such as many adventure holidays activities like horse trekking and hiking which is very popular in the High Coast region of Sweden which is now a world heritage site recognised by UNESCO.

There are many other ecotourism holidays where you can help by planting trees or donating some of your time to help with wildlife and biodiversity projects too.  It all depends on how much you’d want to do; after all it is a holiday! 

If you are interested in any of these activities there are plenty of projects going on worldwide as it is a global problem we face and so if you want to give a little back to the earth then look up these projects and see if you can fit a bit of time towards looking after nature in during your break.

By: Andy Adams

About the Author:

Eco-Friendly Clothing From Bangledox

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS August 30, 2007 Retail News

August 30, 2007, Chicago, Ill –With emerging standards in mind as well as combining cool styles, and the company’s deep concern for the planet , Bangledox Clothing was created.

Introducing Bangledox [ban’gel-dox] Clothing® , a new Latino owned t-shirt company is helping set the standard while incorporating environmentally safe materials such as organic cottons and earth friendly inks and dyes in their clothing line, sustainable and recycled materials.

Organic clothing and green eco friendly clothing in the fashion industry have entered mainstream consumer consciousness with a slew of media attention, and for good reason. Its great for the environment and it helps draw attention to a very important topic.

After a humble start at local flea markets the company is launching its first online store to the public ; the new site which is located at www.BangledoxClothing.com.

The company was determined to roll out a new t-shirt line that they could be proud of and know that they were not harming the planet, as well as help draw attention to a very important topic.

They feel they are achieving this.

The new site will also have helpful tips on saving energy as well as other useful environmental information that its visitors can use to help do their part.

Bangledox is grounded in the concept that the clothing industry and environment can co-exist, all of their clothing is sweat-shop free and produced in U.S.

Bangledoxclothing.com launches new online store!

We’re more than just a Brand. We’re a movement. ®

Thank you.

Contact Information

Marta Soto

bangledoxclothing@hotmail.com

773 759 3815

By: Marta Martines

About the Author:

Most emission testing centers today check four pollutants: carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrocarbons (HC), nitrogen oxide (NOX) and the “evaporative emissions”.

Do you have an old car like a Plymouth Voyager? You are probably concerned with what is emits since your Plymouth exhaust is already quite old and it might emit undesirable colored gasses.

You need to know these emitted dangerous gases to eventually know the right way of maintaining your old exhaust system like the Plymouth exhaust system and avoiding these gases at the same time.

Carbon monoxide is the deadliest among pollutants. You cannot see it nor smell it. A concentration of only half a percent (0.5%) CO in the air can make a person unconscious and kill within 10 to 15 minutes. Even very small amount of concentrations as four hundredths of a percent (0.04%) can cause headaches and be life threatening after several hours of exposure.

Never run an engine inside an enclosed garage. Since this is a gas, it diffuses very fast that you cannot even count the seconds of its diffusion. If engine is run inside an enclosed area, chances are 75 percent of carbon dioxide particles are stocked in that area; so you can easily inhale it. Remember that this gas is invisible and odorless. You cannot really tell when it is around.

It is formed when the fuel mixture is rich and there is insufficient oxygen to completely burn all the fuel. Carbon monoxide and fuel mixture has a direct proportionality, which means the richer the fuel mixture, the greater the quantity of CO produced. So high CO emissions indicate incomplete combustion typically caused by several maladjustments.

When the engine is first started, carbon monoxide production is highest because the fuel mixture is richer than normal during this time and the catalytic converter has not yet reached operating temperature. It is therefore the time when it is most dangerous.

Despite these thrilling facts, emission of carbon monoxide can be minimized. By maintaining a balanced to slightly lean fuel mixture, CO is reduced. This just requires careful adjustments on the carburetor idle mixture screws.

Hydrocarbon emissions are unburned gasoline and oil vapors. Though not directly harmful, they are a major contributor to smog and ozone pollution (which are toxic). Hydrocarbons in the atmosphere react with sunlight and break down to form other chemical compounds that irritate the eyes, nasal passages, throat and lungs.

HC emissions, which are usually measured in parts per million (PPM), can go up as a result of a fouled plug or bad plug wire, incorrect carburetor idle adjustment or vacuum leaks that creates a lean mixture that misfires, loss of compression such as a burned or leaky exhaust valve, or engine wear that causes the engine to burn oil Engine wear include the wearing of valve guides, rings and/or cylinders.

Hydrocarbon emissions are controlled in three different ways. One is by maintaining the fuel mixture so it is neither too lean nor too rich to ignite. The second one is by keeping the combustion chamber tightly sealed, and lastly by maintaining the ignition system or changing the plugs periodically. HC that is produced in the engine is burned again in the catalytic converter and changed into water vapor and carbon dioxide.

Nitrogen comprises the most percentage of the air we breathe; about 78 percent. Though normally inert and not directly involved in the combustion process, combustion temperatures above 2500 degrees F cause nitrogen and oxygen to combine and form various compounds called “nitrogen oxide”. This mostly occurs when the engine is under load and the throttle is open wide.

Nitrogen oxide can cause irritations in the eye, nose and lungs, headaches and irritability. Higher concentrations can cause bronchitis and they oftentimes aggravate other lung disorders leading to death. Once released in the atmosphere, it reacts with oxygen to form ozone (which is also toxic to breathe) and smog.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) is used to reduce the formation of NOX. By circulating again a small amount of exhaust gas back into the intake manifold to dilute the air/fuel mixture, EGR has a “cooling” effect on combustion. This, in turn, puts temperatures below the NOX formation threshold.

High NOX emissions are often times due to a defective EGR valve or some component that controls the operation of the EGR valve. A related sign that usually occurs when EGR is lost is spark knock or detonation while accelerating.

Last of the four pollutants, but still dangerous, are the “evaporative emissions” (EM). EM control system that captures and holds vapors from your fuel tank. The fuel vapors that evaporate from your fuel tank can be another source of smog and ozone pollution. To avoid vapor loss, car manufacturers seal fuel systems for the past twenty years.

The amount of pollution adds up, especially during hot weather, so it is important to make sure the system is functioning properly.

By: Jerick Brooks

About the Author:

Isn’t it about time that caring about what sustains us is part of our daily awareness and lifestyle, and becomes a constant practice like brushing our teeth?

Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Profit before survival seems to be more important. Short-term perspective comes before long-term, and our interaction with the planet that takes care of us every day isn’t something that comes naturally to us.

I’m talking about Mother Earth. Earth Day has come and gone; are we still keeping Her in mind?

How can we take something this essential to our existence for granted? Luckily, going green is the buzz phrase these days. Finally, it’s fashionable to be earth friendly. When our appearance is more important than our values, we lose the aspect of being human and the ability to interact instead of using. The ability to see ourselves as a part of a relationship that is an expression of who we are, rather than what we would like to be perceived as, is lost.

Nine Easy Actions to Keep Mother Earth Healthy

The obvious one is recycling, which seems so basic that it should be second nature, but it isn’t. Please go out of your way to recycle and if possible, compost.

Choose products from recycled materials over those that aren’t. For example, spend a little more money on quality clothes that last longer, then save those items until they come back into fashion. Or give it to those who need it when you don’t. Some companies are also introducing eco-fashion, even big-name brands like Levi.

Carry your own bag instead of getting one from the grocery store. There are a lot of little foldable ones on the market these days that fit nicely into your handbag.

Choose non-toxic products. This is better for your health and the environment.

Eat in a way the helps sustain the earth rather than exploiting it. Consider buying locally or purchasing food from your neighborhood’s farmers market.

Buy produce and food in its whole form so little or no packaging is needed.

Get a water filter and refill a water bottle instead of buying more plastic ones.

Get your newspaper online. And don’t print documents unless you need to.

Save energy. Turn off lights, don’t wash dishes under running water, only use the air conditioner if really needed, and use rechargeable batteries.

Product Tips and Food Choices

Choose Organic Foods

Eating organic food is healthier for you and for the environment as it omits the pesticides and toxic fertilizers. It also helps sustain smaller farmers, instead of factory farms, which leads to less pollution.

Factory farms pollute more and contribute to global warming. Apart from the fact that they treat animals inhumanely, the meat from these animals is harmful to your health. Choose sustainable farmed food, adapt a food-style high in vegetables, and when eating meat and eggs, choose from free-range, non-antibiotic, and non growth-hormone animals.

Choose fish from non-toxic farming resources or from the wild.

Shop and eat in appropriate proportions, cook with care, and don’t waste it. This does not mean eat everything on your plate, that doesn’t help the environment either. Overconsumption causes disease and therefore more waste with the need of medicine and hospitals, not to mention, you suffer. Instead, ask in advance to omit foods from the dish that you already know you are not going to eat anyway. Bring leftovers home with you for lunch, or give it to someone hungry in the street.

Go Wasteless and Choose Natural, Non-Toxic Products

Try to buy non-toxic household cleaners, unbleached toilet-paper, and paper-towels. You don’t have to breathe in the fumes or have toxic products touch your skin. It also causes less pollution to manufacture these products. Products from Seventh Generation, EarthWise, BioKleen, and Ecover are all good options.

Use recycled paper at the office and omit the throw-away pen.

Store your food in glass containers that last longer, especially if you use a microwave (not recommended) to heat your food. Plastic breaks down over time and is also unhealthy for you as it leaks into the food when heated.

Buy microfiber cleaning cloths that are washable, reusable, and trap the dirt and spills better than using tons of paper towels.

Buy larger containers of dish soap and pour into smaller containers as you need it, instead of many small bottles.

Wash and dry out your Ziploc bags. Hang it on a chopstick in a glass to dry.

Buy products that come in glass containers with lids that ***** on so you can use them for storage later.

Take off your shoes indoors means less cleaning, less use of energy, and less toxins in your home.

Choose airlines with the newest fleet when traveling. They use less fuel.

There are many things you can do to green your life, every day of the year, not just on Earth Day. All it takes is a conscious mind and a willingness to take care of our planet with everyday choices.

“Achieving genuine happiness may require bringing about a transformation in your outlook, your way of thinking, and this is not a simple matter.” The 14th Dalai Lama

By: Jeanette Bronee

About the Author:

In the world of engagements and wedding planning, green is the new white. From conflict-free wedding jewelry, to an environmentally-conscientious reception, with an eco-friendly honeymoon to round out the nuptials, couples are throwing out the era of Bridezilla and ushering in the age of green weddings. And it all starts with that oh-so-special wedding jewelry.

Choosing a diamond engagement ring (http://www.danforthdiamond.com) and wedding bands are incredibly personal decisions that are also becoming ethical decisions. Socially aware couples now want to ensure that their wedding jewelry selections are not linked to human rights abuses or have not negatively impacted the environment.

Conflict-free Diamonds

Until recent years, newly engaged couples were blissfully unaware that an untold number of corrupt organizations in African countries were illegally mining diamonds that are directly linked to human rights abuses.

The good news is that more than 40 nations worldwide, including the United States, now voluntarily participate in the Kimberly Process, a system that imposes stringent requirements on imports to certify that diamonds are free from conflict. 99.8% of the global production of rough diamonds is now accounted for through the Kimberly Process.

Reputable engagement and wedding jewelry retailers readily confirm the origin of any stone. Online retailers are particularly sensitive to consumer concerns regarding the genesis of their diamonds. Leading online retailers, such as Danforth Diamond, My Solitaire, and Brilliant Earth actively educate consumers by providing helpful information on their websites to ensure that accurate information is easily accessible.

Green Gold?

For those who truly want guilt-free glitter, there are a number of retailers who offer recycled gold for wedding bands and the like. Concerned about a lackluster green ring? Worry not. Recycled gold, which is melted and re-refined, is the same quality as newly-mined gold.

NoDirtyGold.org publishes an ever-growing and impressive list of retailers who support the responsible production of gold.

Vintage jewelry is also enjoying a resurgence in popularity as brides and grooms opt to purchase estate jewelry or wear wedding rings that have been passed down from a family member.

Eco-friendly weddings aren’t just for the granola crunching crowd nowadays - and conflict-free diamond engagement rings and recycled gold wedding jewelry are just the beginning. As green weddings become more mainstream, the options and price ranges are increasingly abundant.

Earth-friendly Invitations

Wedding invitations printed with soy- or vegetable-based inks on recycled paper are a mainstay for green couples. If that’s not green enough for you, perhaps paperless invitations are the way to go; simply extend electronic invitations for guests who can be contacted via email. Emailed RSVPs offer an added bonus: guests are more likely to respond promptly, allowing you to accurately plan your headcount.

Location, Location, Location

A central wedding location that requires minimal travel for most guests will save on carbon emissions. Booking a venue that can host the wedding ceremony and reception will further reduce carbon emissions. Art galleries, botanical gardens, eco-friendly restaurants, hotels and parks are all excellent choices.

Here Comes the Bride

Something old, something new, something borrowed… something green? You betcha. Green brides can choose lovely, previously-worn gowns from vintage stores or gown consignment and rental shops. Brides can also turn to their family tree for a wonderfully sentimental heirloom gown. A number of designers have also embraced the eco-friendly trend and offer extravagant gowns made of hemp silk.

Wedding Favors as Decorations

Organic, locally grown flowers for bouquets and centerpieces offer a fresh, seasonal touch. Flower arrangements used at the wedding can perform double duty by being moved to the reception. Potted plants also make lovely arrangements and can be transplanted outdoors after the wedding or can serve as gifts that guests can take home.

The Gift that Keeps Giving

Portovert Magazine, the nation’s first and only online publication devoted exclusively to environmentally and socially responsible weddings, and NativeEnergy offer a carbon emissions calculator that can be used to evaluate wedding-related carbon sources, including travel, guest lodging and power used at the wedding venues, which can help in the planning of a carbon-neutral wedding. You can find it here: http://www.nativeenergy.com/Splash/Portovert/portovert_wedding_calc.html.

Couples can also offset the carbon emissions produced as a result of their nuptials by making contributions to an eco organization of their choice or requesting that guests do the same in lieu of a wedding gift.

Paying it Forward

Eco-friendly tours, green hotel resorts, simple outdoor adventures, volunteer work for a preservation project - green honeymoons run the gamut and cater to a variety of preferences and budgets. From relaxing and luxuriant to active and outdoorsy, newlyweds can take their dream green vacation that celebrates the beginning of their new life together and the future of our planet.

And to think that it all began with a diamond engagement ring. Green weddings provide couples the opportunity to make a lifelong commitment to each other and to their world. Every wedding anniversary, from the “small” ones to the milestones years is an opportunity to renew that commitment for now and for years to come.

Perhaps a future generation will honor that same commitment by choosing to wear your “heirloom” wedding jewelry.

By: Jill Renee

About the Author:

Most businesses use promotional products to advertise their businesses, especially at conventions and trade shows. However, it is important for many people to be environmentally friendly. While many promotional products are not, there are choices that you can pick in order to promote your business while still keeping nature in mind. Using environmentally friendly promotional products will help you and your business do your part to save the world.

First, consider the product from which the promotional products are made. Plastics are common, although products can also be made out of paper, wood, ceramic, and a variety of other materials. Before ordering, call the company to find out their policy about using these products. Where the plastics recycled? Can be they recycled easily? Keep in mind that recycling plastics can usually be done, but some communities limit the categories of plastics that can be recycled. 1-5 are usually your best bets. In any case, paper products can also be recycled.

Learn about how the products will be shipped to you as well. Larger products will undoubtedly take more space, and therefore require larger shipping boxes and more packaging material. Of course, you can work with your promotional products company to discuss shipping options in order to cut costs and be more environmentally friendly. Sometimes, smaller boxes are possible. If the order is shipped together, you may also be able to cut back on packaging. You can even discuss the use of recycled newspaper or other environmentally friendly packing options with your promotional products company. It never hurts to ask, right?

Remember, if the product is useful, it is better for the environment. Why? Well, if a product is useful, there is less of a chance that people will throw it away. Unfortunately, many people do not recycle, meaning that your promotional products have a good chance of ending up in a landfill. Instead, useful products will be continually used in the home. Mugs, cups, umbrellas, pens, letter openers, and Frisbees are all good examples of promotional items that are less likely to find their way to the trashcan.

You can also provide promotional that promote not only your business, but also saving the environment. A great example of such a product is the tote bag. Tote bags can be used in place of paper or plastic bags at the grocery store in order to cut down on their consumption. However, you can also attractively print your name or logo on the side of a tote bag in order to advertise your business. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.

Of course, don’t forget that you and your business can do other things to help the environment as well. Use recycled paper to print brochures and business cards. Carpool to conferences, driving when possible instead of flying. Use the same displays and posters wherever your go and for as long as possible. If businesses around the world team up to be more environmentally friend, the earth will be a happier place to live.

By: Tina Rinaudo

About the Author:

Today there are tons of new products derived from recycled and renewable resources that not only help the environment, but can help you save some serious cash. If you want to do more for the planet than just recycle cans and bring reusable grocery bags to the store, consider turning your house into a green project and what better place to start changing to greener alternatives than with the very walls of your own home?

Spray foam insulation is an earth-friendly building material that not only pays for itself but can even produce a healthy profit. It is made from recyclable and renewable materials and is an investment that will make your house more energy efficient and even add value to your property.

Most homes use fiberglass sheets for insulation. These wiry, pink fibers provide minimal climate control and have been known to cause health problems. The sharp material can irritate skin when touched, and loose particles can become caught in the throat, creating scars inside of the esophagus. Although it may seem like a great deal, since fiberglass is cheaper to install than other types of insulation, it comes apart easily, often needing to be partially or fully replaced.

Spray polyurethane foam, commonly referred to as SPF, is a spray-applied insulating foam plastic that is installed as a liquid and then expands many times its original size. It is extremely energy efficient because it easily fills cracks and openings on the surface, making a solid barrier to protect against outside elements.

The tight seal it creates makes it the most energy - efficient insulation available. You won’t have to crank up the heater or air conditioner like you have to with fiberglass. And it stays put. You probably will never have to worry about repairs or replacement.

Spray foam insulation also acts as a pest, moisture, and sound repellant. Because it seals so thoroughly, spray foam insulation makes it nearly impossible for insects and other critters to sneak into your home. You’ll spend next to nothing on pest control and won’t have to fill the air with harmful pesticides.

Likewise moisture doesn’t stand a chance against the armor-like spray foam. You won’t have to worry about mold, which can destroy your house. And the cushioned walls even easily absorb excess noise, ensuring that you can’t hear your neighbors and they can’t hear you.

Polyurethane insulation is not only durable, but very versatile. It can be sprayed onto ceilings and floors to add extra protection and insulation. Due to the messy nature of the product, it is highly recommended to have professionals perform the job.

The best way to get green is to start in with your own home, and spray foam insulation is the ideal, environmentally friendly choice. You’ll not only improve your home, but you’ll help save energy and will contribute to a product that serves to protect the planet. For a small investment, you can save big money over the years with the knowledge that you are contributing to a worthy cause.

By: Andrew Stratton

About the Author:

As concerns about emissions and global warming increase, people are scrambling to make all of their regular activities more environmentally friendly. Travel has been singled out by many as one of the biggest contributors to the climate change problem. Fortunately, there are many ways to make travel greener. By keeping these Earth friendly means of travel in mind, you can take a trip and help the environment at the same time.

1. Walk

Perhaps the most environmentally friendly means of travel is walking. While walking between cities or across oceans is obviously impossible, any trip can be made greener by increasing the amount of time walking. Not only is walking good for the environment, it is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise. It will also put you in close contact with the place you are visiting, potentially increasing your enjoyment of the trip.

2. Ride a Bike

The only downside of walking is that it can be slow. Riding a bike is a faster, zero emission, alternative. Like walking, riding a bike is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air. Bikes can be purchased new or used and sometimes even found for free. If you are visiting a new city, it is worth finding a bike shop that has rentals available. A rented bike is the perfect vehicle for a tour of a new place.

3. Mass Transit

In some places the weather, terrain, or traffic congestion makes walking and riding a bike challenging. If walking or riding a bike is impractical, look for public transport. The city bus or subway is a great way to get around and the overall environmental impact is significantly less than that of driving or taking taxi cabs.

4. Take the Train

If you are traveling greater distances, see if a train is available. Trains are fast and comfortable and give off dramatically fewer emissions than airplanes or even buses. Many people argue that, since the train will be making the trip with or without you, the individual emissions responsibility is zero. Whether you agree with this or not, the train is a one of the most earth friendly means of travel around.

5. Take a Bus

If the train is not available, or is too expensive for your budget, taking the bus is a good alternative. While not as comfortable as flying or taking a train, the bus is reliable and more environmentally friendly than flying. With stations in most towns and the center of many cities, the bus is also often the most convenient option among all public transport.

6. Rent a Hybrid

If you need to drive, try renting a hybrid. Though slightly more expensive than standard car rentals, hybrids offer considerable fuel savings and decreased emissions. Once difficult to find, hybrids are now carried by most major rental agencies and are available from offices across the country.

7. Share a Ride

If you are going to be driving a large distance, consider sharing the ride with someone else. Ask friends and family when you are planning your trip if they know anyone with a similar itinerary. If this fails, visit your local church, library, or community center and see if they have a ride board. Similar services are also set up online. By sharing the trip with someone else, you effectively cut the potential emissions in half.

8. Offset Your Emissions

Whether you drive or fly, consider reducing your emissions by participating in an offset program. When you pay into one of these programs, your money is given to projects that work to reduce carbon emissions, global warming, and climate change. By giving an amount of money proportional to your expected travel emissions, you can make your trip “carbon neutral.”

9. Stay Still

Of course, not traveling at all is the only way to totally eliminate emissions, but many of us are not willing or are not able to give up or travel plans. Still, we can embrace this philosophy on our trips to reduce our overall impact. Instead of traveling to a place and then moving constantly to neighboring areas, try slowing down if possible. Go to one place and stay there. It may mean that you do not see the same number of different places, but each one you visit will be experienced to the fullest.

10. Stay Local

By not traveling as far from your home you can also make the trip more environmentally friendly. While it may not seem as exotic or exciting at first, there are likely neighboring areas that you have not visited, at least not as a tourist. This can be a fun and exciting way to see the area in which you live. Even if you travel far away, consider keeping things local once you get to your destination. Try to eat food that comes from nearby and buy sovereigns and products from that region.

Travel can have a huge impact on the climate and environment, but it does not have to. By keeping some of these tips in mind when making your travel plans you can make your trip much more earth friendly.

By: Art Gib

About the Author: