December 2011
Your conscious life
M a g a z i n e
Sustainably
Holiday Decorating
Low Impact Travel ALSO INSIDE:
Why Sustainable Furniture Rules Tips for a Relaxing Holiday: Dr. David Simon Adaptive Reuse Hula’s Chef Christopher Curtiss of NoRTH Green Living magazine is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks.
2011 A Year of
Green Building greenlivingaz.com
departments
December 2011 Live Green 8 12 14
Why Sustainable Furniture Rules Dr. Gordon on Vitamins
4 Editor’s Note
The Chopra Center: Tips for a Relaxing Holiday Season
45 Green Pages 47 Green Directory
16 18 20 22
Green Gifts Under $50 Holiday Table Battle of the Bones Growing Herbs Indoors
48 Q&A with John Neville
Green Gift Guide
ON THE COVER Table Design by Lettie Peterson rustandlace.blogspot.com Photography by Angela Simpson AngelinaRosePhotography.com
16
Work Green Green 2011 and Beyond The Myths of Biodiesel Paradise Repurposed Taking Green to the Next Level
24 28 30 32
38 Play Green
30 2 greenliving | December 2011
Low Impact Travel Travel: Yangtze Dammed? Eco-Artists Chef Christopher Curtiss
36 38 40 41
42 43 44
Cool | Outrageous Stuff He’s Green | She’s Green Recipes
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December 2011
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Editor’s Note
greenlivingazmag greenlivingaz & TishinD company/green-living-az-magazine greenlivingazmag
up on the latest craze and healthier option of sustainable furniture in “Couches Have Carbon Footprints Too” by Aimee Welch. With each holiday season comes a king-size serving of stress. Keep the focus on what is important, commit to less, and meditate—these are some of the tips from Dr. David Simon, co-founder of the Chopra Center, in “7 Tips for a Relaxing Season.” Not done shopping? Check out our “Green Gifts under $50.” A grass skirt, a key lime pie and a million-dollar renovation– what do these things have in common? Hula’s Modern Tiki restaurant. What started out a sandwich joint in the 1960s has turned into an adaptive reuse icon on Central Avenue. Read how owner Dana Mule turned this hexagonal uniqueness into a Polynesian paradise in “Paradise Repurposed,” by Kristin Glocksien.
An honest moment captured with my lab Lilly. A gentle reminder to be grateful for the special moments with those you love, and who love you – unconditionally.
I
can’t believe I’m writing the December issue. Is it just me, or where did this year go? Nonetheless, I’m excited for this month and the holiday season—bring on the baked goods! Our theme this month is REFLECTION, and taking time to look back at 2011 with wisdom and experience. Ask yourself, what have I learned? How have I grown? What am I going to change moving into 2012? We can’t stay stagnant and keep plugging along with the status quo. No, we need to make an effort to change our personal environment—and one thing is for sure, your attitude will be the deciding factor in your quality of life, the environment you occupy, and the amount of happiness you bring to your life, regardless of external factors. I can honestly say that I’m blessed, and every day I make an effort to find joy in that day, and with the people who surround me. I challenge you with a task this month— limit your complaints and speak words of encouragement, for yourself and others. Craigslist and secondhand stores are great places to pick up some used furniture, but if you are heart-set on the new, read
Blown glass, beehives and license plates are just some of the materials used by our local artists to make cool stuff. See their work at local art galleries and in our “Eco-Artist” article in PLAY. Going north? Well, you have two choices–one, the restaurant NoRTH | Arcadia, a FOX Restaurant concept located in Phoenix, featuring Chef Christopher Curtiss, or head up to the northern country for some low-impact travel–a hotel, yurt…whatever your preference, we’ve got all the information for you. As always, we have some scrumptious recipes from local restaurants to excite the taste buds. Call out to our readers–if you have a special recipe to share, send it right away to submissions@greenlivingaz.com and you might be chosen for our FACEBOOK reader highlight. Don’t forget to take a picture! Our original WEB stories this month are about a NET ZERO home, 2011 sustainability initiatives from University of Phoenix, more recipes from local chefs and Luxury Green Gifts–ever seen a $35,000 “green” bed? Yep, we found it. Check out our FACEBOOK and Twitter feed for the release.
Happy holidays, be safe and be well, Tishin Donkersley, M.A., Editor-in-Chief
Photography by Jason Donkersley
4 greenliving | December 2011
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M a g a z i n e Your conscious life
M a g a z i n e
Your conscious life
Publisher John B. Stacy associate Publisher Dorie Morales M a g a z i n e editor-in-chief Tishin Donkersley, M.A.
Th e first L EED Cer tif ie d Volk swagen Dea lers hip in Nor t h A m erica
Your conscious life
creatiVe director Kate Larson kate@greenlivingaz.com M a g a z i n e oPerations ManaGer Angela Sinagoga-Stacy, M.A. angela@greenlivingaz.com
senior adVisor William Janhonen, LEED AP NAHB-CGP
We’ve taken steps to help our environment, now it’s your turn.
coPY editor Aimee Welch Michael Ziffer
THINK BLUE, NOT GREEN
contributors David Brown Stephanie Lough Jennifer Burkhart Jason Mosler John Burkhart Maya E. Nahra, RD, LD Lisa Christian Terri Schlichenmeyer Kristin Glocksein Carrie Simmons Garry Gordon, MD, DO, David Simon, M.D. MD(H) Barbie Walker William Janhonen, LEED AP, Aimee Welch NAHB-CGP Judy Zimola social Media coordinator Amanda Robert adVertisinG sales Jennifer Bals jennifer@greenlivingaz.com Todd Beck todd@greenlivingaz.com Robert Bocchicchio robert@greenlivingaz.com Michael Burton michael@greenlivingaz.com Kathleen Cullop kathleen@greenlivingaz.com Katie Cummings katie@greenlivingaz.com Karen Hewitt karen@greenlivingaz.com Georgia Lavine georgia@greenlivingaz.com sales & MarketinG intern Michelle Ruiz
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Feature
ouches Have Carbon Footprints Too Why sustainable furniture rules BY AIMEE WELCH
W
hen people set out to buy a new couch, bed or kitchen table, the list of criteria probably includes things like price, comfort, style and maybe even brand. In a nutshell, we want our furniture to look and feel good, at a price within our budget. For some people, Pottery Barn or a high-end specialty store is the first stop. For others—who may still live with marker-wielding “toddler-artists” or those just looking for a smokin’ deal—Craig’s List or IKEA are excellent choices. Either way, whether we realize it or not, some choices are “greener” than others when it comes to furniture. Yes, even the chairs you sit on have a carbon “footprint.” For the environmentally conscious, how and where that chair was made should be making its way onto your furniture-buying list of criteria. From the materials and finishes used in manufacturing, to the construction and transportation energy required to get it to market, to that loyal coffee table’s ultimate destination—as a non-biodegradable piece of trash in an overcrowded landfill, an antique in the living room of a great grandchild, or an entirely new product—furniture has a life cycle that impacts the environment and your health. Historically, that life cycle hasn’t made the furniture industry a lot of “green” friends. Associations with illegal logging and rainforest destruction, child labor usage, air and water pollution, and unhealthy VOC-emitting finishes have plagued the industry. And, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), furniture accounted for more than 8.8 million tons of municipal waste (3.6 percent) in 2005—more than any other durable goods. Because the majority of furniture manufacturing has been outsourced to countries where environmental and labor laws are remiss, making positive changes continues to be a challenge. Fortunately, change is on the horizon. New standards, certifications and laws impacting sustainable furniture are cropping up, consumer demand is increasing, and manufacturers and retailers around the world are providing consumers with more education, and more affordable “green” furniture options.
Why buy sustainable furniture? Bottom line, the vast majority of non-green couches (and chairs, beds, armoires, shelves, etc.) are harmful to the environment and your health. Consider this—every year about 32 million acres of timber around the world are lost to legal and illegal logging, according to Smithsonian.com, and approximately 80% of the world’s rainforests have been degraded or destroyed, much of
8 December 2011 | greenliving
This green couch (literally and figuratively) from Cassina can be easily disassembled, and is 80% recyclable.
it within the last 50 years. Many of those trees are being used to make furniture. We’re killing endangered, life-sustaining, global-warming defending forests to make…tables and chairs. Someone’s going on the “Naughty List” this holiday.
90%
Also, approximately of furniture is now made overseas, where there are fewer restrictions regarding air and water pollution, labor and responsible forest management, according to The Economist. The process is high on transportation (which adds to CO2 emissions) and, in many cases, lower in quality, which means it ends up in a landfill sooner rather than later. VOC-emitting finishes, paints, dyes and textiles contribute to indoor air pollution, and are linked with many health problems, especially in children. Even more alarming, there are very few safeguards in place to ensure consumers get the full scoop on that couch before it ends up in the living room—basically you could be sitting on an “endangered” couch that is emitting all kinds of potentially harmful chemicals, but the tag just says “Made in China, Finished in U.S.A.” Huh? It’s not that governments and non-profits aren’t trying to help. An abundance of domestic and international agreements and laws exist to protect the forests—it’s just that not everyone is following them. For example, much of the wood used for mahogany furniture is illegally harvested in the Amazon Rainforest, according to a press release issued by the Sustainable Furnishings Council. The process is deeply rooted in corruption, complete with fraudulent documents that make it all appear legal. That means retailers around the world are unknowingly (or not) selling furniture made from endangered rainforest wood, and consumers are unknowingly buying it. And when it’s reached the end of its useful life, that non-green couch can’t be reused or recycled, because it fell apart, and it will end up in the landfill, with millions of tons of other garbage. greenlivingaz.com
Feature
What makes a green couch “green?” There isn’t one governing body that certifies a piece of furniture “green,” the way the U.S. Department of Agriculture does for organic food, but rather many different shades of green for consumers to decipher. It’s still a work in progress, but in the meantime, here’s a simplified guideline to help you find furniture made with the environment and your health at heart.
Materials: Whether the wood from your couch came from a demolished building, an old orchard, or beams from a historic barn, taking what’s old and making it new again is a very green practice. Green couches are made with materials that are recycled or re-purposed, renewable and safe. For new couches, the greenest are built from FSC-certified or local hardwood, or renewable resources like bamboo or mango; use of glues, sealants and formaldehyde is minimal; its cushions made from 100% natural latex foam wrapped with wool and a fire-barrier cloth; and its fabric from hemp, linen and organic textiles grown with minimal pesticides; and any finishes used are free of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Manufacturing Process: The process by which a product is made also contributes to its “green couch” status. Questions to consider during your research: Does the manufacturing plant use renewable energy sources, is it run efficiently and carefully in terms of conserving natural resources and minimizing pollution, are employees treated well and compensated fairly, and is the ultimate product durable and easily recycled, as to not take up space in a landfill at the end of its life? Is it sourced and made in the U.S. or Europe (which generally adhere to stricter guidelines and safer practices)? The more yeses, the greener the process. Transportation Energy and Packing: Shipping furniture from overseas requires a lot of energy, which equals a lot of extra carbon dioxide in the air, as well as the packing materials required to pack and ship it. The most eco-friendly way to purchase furniture is to buy locally produced furniture built from locally sourced materials. But even if furniture comes from far away, some packing and shipping methods are more efficient and environmentally friendly than others, such as “flat-packing” (shipping furniture in flat boxes to reduce capacity) and using recyclable materials for packing. Longevity and use: The more durable a piece of furniture is, the longer someone will be able to use it in some capacity, keeping it out of a landfill. High-quality furniture can be passed down through generations, resold and refurbished for years and years. Furniture with a short life, on the other hand, has to be replaced more often, which starts the entire process over, increasing pressure on natural resources. Green furniture, when it inevitably reaches the end of its useful life, is recyclable or even biodegradable.
Green steps forward in the furniture industry Since “illegally harvested from an endangered rainforest” isn’t likely to show up on any label, but many other cryptic ecogreenlivingaz.com
friendly claims are, consumers are sometimes left scratching their heads. Is it green or not? Help is on the way, in the form of government mandates and non-profit third-party organizations and certifications that will keep everyone better informed, as well as retailers and manufacturers that are implementing greener practices. Here is a just a handful of key players and steps in the industry’s move toward greener furniture and practices. The Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC) is a North Carolinabased non-profit alliance of furniture-industry professionals established in 2006 to promote sustainable practices among manufacturers, retailers, and consumers. The membership organization is a great resource for industry professionals and consumers dedicated to sustainability, offering an in-store tagging program which identifies retailers and products that exceed their sustainability standards—which consumers can search for on SFC’s website—as well as network of over 400 members sharing a common objective. There are also a growing number of certifications for furniture that declare it green, on some level—U.S. Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), American Tree Farm, and Canadian Standards Associations (CSA) all offer forest certification programs, The GREENGUARD Environmental Institute (GEI) certifies products and materials for low chemical
Illegal logging in is endangering rainforests. Every year about 32 million acres of timber around the world are lost to legal and illegal logging. emissions, to help enhance indoor air quality, and Cradle to Cradle certification assesses a product’s safety to humans and the environment, and design for future life cycles. And as consumer demand for greener furniture increases, so will green furniture options. The environmental and human health stakes of logging are so high that in 2008 the amended Lacey Act became the first law in the world to prohibit trading wood products made from illegally harvested trees. Since then, U.S. imports of illegal timber have been falling steadily, but there is still a long way to go. The effort to control illegal logging is an international one and, as a result, the practice has decreased by more than 20%—which equates to about 1 billion tons of CO2 which didn’t reach the atmosphere, according to the SFC. Currently, the most widely used certification is the FSC-certified label which identifies products “sourced from forests managed to the highest environmental, social, and economic standards,” and makes that furniture eligible for LEED Materials and Resources credits. December 2011 | greenliving 9
Feature GREEN Bamboo, cork, cotton, linseed (linoleum), wheat, natural rubber, straw Wood certified by Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forest Initiative (SFI)
Using reclaimed wood is a growing trend in the sustainable furniture industry. Western Heritage Furniture in Jerome, AZ designs and builds reclaimed wood furniture handcrafted from the salvaged wood of old barns, buildings and other American structures, originally constructed from old growth timber more than a century ago.
Recycled or reclaimed wood Water-based finishes (no or low VOCs) Biodegradable and/or recyclable Made in the U.S. (reduces shipping/ packaging impact) Hand-made Durability and long life span
NOT AS GREEN Tropical hardwoods (like mahogany and teak) and woods like redwood, douglas fir, and some cedars (unless certified by FSC) Artificial leather and vinyl containing phthalate-based PVC Manufactured wood (like plywood) that utilize formaldehyde glues Finishes, dyes, paints with formaldehyde and PBDEs Non-biodegradable or recyclable
ONLINE RESOURCES • Craig’s List (buy and sell used furniture), craigslist.com • Freecycle (buy, sell, donate used furniture, Arizona-based), freecycle.com • Sustainable Furnishings Council (find green retailers/products), sustainablefurnishings.org • World of Good, Ebay (buy sustainable furniture), worldofgood.ebay.com
CERTIFICATIONS TO LOOK FOR
How to go about buying sustainable furniture Before you find yourself on the verge of a kitchen table upgrade or ready to replace the finger-painted, chocolate-milk-stained, trampoline stand-in that is your couch, start by asking yourself whether or not that piece of furniture can be refurbished. If you initially bought a quality piece, chances are it can be sanded and painted (using green finishes), reupholstered or refurbished in some green way. If you can recondition it, do it! If you’re really done with it, consider donating or selling it (someone else may be up for the challenge) or, check with your city’s bulk trash department. Many will pick it up and recycle it if possible. If you are going to shop, consider that the greenest thing to do is check out garage sales, flea markets, secondhand stores and their online equivalents like Freecycle. com and ebay.com to find your furnishing treasures in the rough. People get rid of the darndest things—antiques, heirlooms, and maybe even the sofa table of your dreams— and you’re likely to get what you want at a great price, and with a clear conscience. If you have your heart set on new furniture, look for credible certifications like FSC and GREENGUARD certified products. You can also find green retailers, manufacturers, designers and suppliers on SFC’s website. Review the “What makes a green couch green?” section and find products that meet as much of that criteria as possible. And make sure whatever you buy is built to last. You shouldn’t have to go too far off the beaten path to find what you’re looking for… specialty shops aren’t the only places selling sustainable furniture—Crate & Barrel, IKEA, Home Depot, West Elm and Pottery Barn are just a sampling of big retailers responding to consumer demand, and increasing their green selections for furniture and other products. Many furniture stores now offer at least one or two options which are marketed as sustainable, eco-friendly, or some other phrase that triggers your inner eco-obligation. Remember to do your homework before you shop—be cognizant of the many shades of green out there…a lot of furniture claims to be but, in the end, it’s not easy being green furniture. SOURCES • Architecture 2030, architecture2030.org/hot_topics/2030_challenge_for_products • ASU Global Institute of Sustainability, sustainability.asu.edu/docs/gios/toolbox/sustainability_toolbox_may09.pdf • Building Green, Environmental Building News, “Measuring the environmental impact of furniture,” buildinggreen.com/auth/article.cfm/2011/6/30/Measuring-the-Environmental-Impact-of-Furniture • The Economist, economist.com/node/616834 • Food and Agricultural Organizations of the United Nations, fao.org/forestry/en • Goliath Business Knowledge on Demand, goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-3495217/China-s-furniture-industry-today.html • Greenpeace, greenpeace.org/usa/Global/usa/report/2010/2/partners-in-mahogany-crime.pdf • Green Source, the Magazine of Sustainable Design, greensource.construction.com/news/2011/07/071911-Environmental-Impact.asp • Smithsonian, si.edu • Sustainable Furnishings Council, sustainablefurnishings.org/, http://www.sustainablefurnishings.org/content/general-news/5421-us-lacey-act-wins-2011-futurepolicy-award
Aimee Welch is a freelance writer, marketing consultant, and former advertising executive. She writes advertising copy, magazine and web articles for her company, 17,000 Feet; and for herself, she runs, snowboards, travels and hangs with her husband, two kids and four dogs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from The Ohio State University.
10 December 2011 | greenliving
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Health & Wellness
Why You Should Not Stop Taking Your
BY DR. GARRY F. GORDON, MD, DO, MD(H)
Our vitamins and supplements are again under attack. The Wall Street Journal recently published an article saying that taking vitamins is “a waste of time and money,” and any benefit one might experience is simply a placebo effect. the story followed on the heels of two studies released by the american medical association that reported an increase in mortality among women who regularly took a multi-vitamin, and an increase in prostate cancer among men who regularly ingested vitamin E supplements. the article also claims little to no benefit in taking B12 for heart health, or vitamin C for immune system health and the prevention of colds. How can they twist the data to make it appear that vitamin E causes prostate cancer when gamma tocotrienols found in good vitamin E preparations actually kill prostate cancer stem cells? it is not a coincidence that these articles are coming out at the same time our government and FDa are vying for control over our personal health freedoms. Back in the early 1990s, the FDa tried to make many supplements illegal and consumers rejected this. the result was that Congress passed the Dietary supplement Health and Education act (DsHEa). that law protected supplements from the FDa unless the FDa could prove a supplement wasn’t safe. However, a loophole in the law potentially gives the FDa authority to regulate new ingredients introduced after October 15, 1994. With prescription drug sales falling, and the controversies surrounding vaccines, the FDa is focused on ways to limit our access to more affordable alternatives. the latest power grab is legislation introduced by senator Durbin (r-iL), called the Dietary supplement Labeling act of 2011 (s.1310). On the same day, the FDa introduced its own guidelines called “Guidance for industry: Dietary supplements: new Dietary ingredient notifications and related issues,” designed to give the FDa authority to control and regulate vitamins like they do drugs. The truth is, vitamins and natural supplements have enjoyed a remarkable efficacy and safety record for many decades. a major statistical study in 2004 from the Lewin Group investigated the potential impact dietary supplements could have in reducing healthcare costs. it found that regularly taking supplements such as calcium with vitamin D, folic acid, omega-3s, and lutein with zeaxanthin could save billions of dollars in medical expenses! regarding safety—statistics show that supplements are safer than prescription drugs, cosmetics, medical devices, and even food! according to the Poison Control Centers, there were zero deaths caused by dietary supplements in 2008, and only one in 2009. meanwhile, pathogens like E. coli in food kill at least 2,000
12 greenliving | December 2011
people each year, and acetaminophen in drugs like tylenol kills 450 people every year, and powerful prescription drugs kill many more. according to a previous american medical association medical journal in Jama, prescription and over-the-counter drugs were the fourth leading cause of death. those numbers only included the deaths that occurred in hospitals! Even the FDa now admits vioxx likely killed over 26,000 people before they finally took it off the market! Moving on…let us agree that no one should routinely ingest iron, copper or synthetic folic acid because, over the course of a lifetime, it will cause adverse health effects. When choosing supplements, the source and form of supplement is very important. Dr. mark Hyman, an expert in longevity and recently seen on Dr. Oz show, says synthetic folic acid can cause cancer, but natural folate is protective. the Harvard school of Public Health recommends eating a diet rich in foods containing folate, with a quality multi-vitamin, for optimal protection against heart disease and cancer. Folate has also been shown to protect against cervical dysplasia, a pre-cancerous condition, and thus heed caution against the GarDasiL® vaccine, which is now being encouraged for younger boys. For the Beyond B12 supplement, i’ve included 5’mtHF and Folinic acid, a high-quality sublingual tablet delivering 2000mcg of vitamin B12 as methylcobalamin. B12 is essential for the 30 percent of our population known to have methylation issues that are either genetic or environmentally induced. to fight against toxins in our foods and environment, adding Beyond B12 is a simple and affordable way to support methylation and detoxification. For more information on how to effectively detox and achieve optimal health through diet and natural supplements, see my F.I.G.H.T. For Your Health Program at Gordon Research Institute gordonresearch.com. SOURCES An Evidence Based Study of the Role of Dietary Supplements in Helping Seniors Maintain their Independence. The Lewin Group, Inc. Prepared for:Dietary Supplement Education Alliance. January 20, 2006 http://www.lewin.com/content/publications/3393.pdf Is This the End of Popping Vitamins? Wall Street Journal Online. October 25, 2011. http://online. wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204644504576650980601014152.html Nutrition Tips: Folic Acid: Killer or Cure-All? Dr. Mark Hyman. The Huffington Post Online. June 2010. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/dr-mark-hyman/nutrition-tips-folic-acid_b_601126.html
Garry F. Gordon MD,DO,MD(H), President, Gordon Research Institute. As an internationally recognized expert on chelation therapy, Dr. Gordon is now attempting to establish standards for the proper use of oral and intravenous chelation therapy as an adjunct therapy for all diseases. Currently, Dr. Gordon is a consultant for various supplement companies. He is responsible for the design of many supplements, which are widely used by alternative health practitioners around the world. gordonresearch.com
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Health & Wellness
BY DAVID SIMON, M.D., ChOprA CeNter CO-fOuNDer
The holiday season is often a swirl of nonstop activity that can, if you let it, sweep you into a state of imbalance that leaves you feeling exhausted and susceptible to seasonal colds and flu. If you want to truly enjoy this special time of year, the best gift you can give yourself and your family is caring for yourself. Here are a few ways to nourish your mind-body balance this month—and throughout the coming year.
Do one thing at a time. Rather than cooking with a phone in one hand and the TV blaring in the background, give yourself the gift of focused attention. Let yourself experience the aromas, textures, colors, tastes, and sensory pleasures of preparing and eating your special holiday meals.
Communicate consciously. To prevent emotional strain at family gatherings, try the Buddhist practice of “right speech.” Before you speak, ask yourself these three questions: Is what I am about to say true? Is it necessary? Is it kind? If the answer to any of these questions is no, remain quiet. You may find yourself spending a lot more time in silence it’s OK, give yourself that moment to reflect and be present with those around you.
Commit to less. Don’t succumb to the collective hallucination that would have you scrambling to find thoughtful gifts for everyone from your third cousin to your mail carrier, creating reindeer topiary for the lawn, and making dozens of cookies from scratch—all before arriving at your company party in the perfect holiday
14 greenliving | December 2011
outfit. Choose to participate only in those holiday activities that hold meaning and joy for you.
Rest and meditate. When you feel you are pushing yourself or overdoing any activity, rest. Besides sleep, the best rest is the deep relaxation provided by meditation. When you meditate, your breathing slows, blood pressure decreases, and stress hormone levels fall. You go beyond the mind’s noisy internal dialogue and experience an oasis of inner silence and stillness.
Exhale your stress. In stressful situations, we have an unconscious tendency to breathe shallowly, which only increases anxiety in our mind and body. Kapalabhati or “shining breath” is a yogic breathing technique that releases stress and toxins from the body: – Sit comfortably in an upright posture and rest your hands on your lower belly. – Draw your navel to your spine in a quick motion, forcefully expelling all the air from your lung. The primary movement is from your diaphragm. – Allow your lungs to fill naturally, with no effort. – Perform this cycle 10 times, then allow your breathing to return to normal and observe the sensations in your body. Repeat the cycle three or four times. *Note: Do not practice kapalabhati if you are pregnant.
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Health & Wellness
your healthy alternative
Use soothing aromatherapy and essential oils. Scents such as orange, lavender, neroli, sandalwood, vanilla, basil or clove in your home, workplace, and your car can bring some relaxation to your space.
Take time for reflection. Sit in your favorite spot and take a gratitude inventory of the gifts you’ve been given this year. Consider the people, experiences, lessons, and things you’ve received, and allow your heart to fill with appreciation for the changes you’ve undergone. Let go of your past wounds or perceived trespasses so they are not encumbering you as you enter into the new year.
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GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF MEDITATION The Chopra Center for Wellbeing offers instruction Primordial Sound Meditation, an easy-to-learn mantra-based meditation practice with immediate and long-term benefits. You can receive instruction in Primordial Sound Meditation and your personal mantra at any Chopra Center signature event, or go to choprateachers.com to find a certified teacher near you.
David Simon, M.D. is the co-founder of the Chopra Center for Wellbeing in Carlsbad, California. The Chopra Center offers programs, workshops, and retreats focusing on mind-body health, Ayurveda, meditation, yoga, and other practices for physical health, emotional wellbeing, spiritual awakening, and personal empowerment. For more information, visit chopra.com or call (888) 736-6895.
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December 2011 | greenliving 15
Green Gifts Under $50 Organic Spirits Casa Noble Tequila For the person who appreciates an ultra-premium tequila, Casa Noble has an organic brand. A renowned boutique distillery, founded over 200 years ago in Tequila, Mexico, the Casa Noble selections—Crystal, Reposado, and Anejo—might be that special gift. Casa Noble uses only blue agave grown in the region’s unique volcanic soil and further distinguishes itself with an unusually qualitative triple-distillation process. $39.95-$49.95 Casanoble.com
Mood Lighting Tuscan Fig Fine Fragrance Candle Immerse yourself in the romance of Tuscan Fig as the heady scent of sun-kissed figs and the warm sound of the crackling wood-wick indulges your senses, enhancing feelings of relaxation, luxury, and escape. The organic wood-wicks burn at a higher temperature than cotton wicks, allowing the fragrance to disperse better than conventional scented candles. Using a proprietary soy wax blend and the highest concentration of fine fragrance oils, the candles will burn cleanly for over 50 hours. $46 LisaHoffmanBeauty.com
Care Package Stress Relief Spa-Therapy Kit Give the gift of peace and calm—or keep it for yourself! Release the holiday stress with your own therapy kit. The Stress Relief Spa-Therapy kit contains a 4 oz. bar of Lavender Aromatherapy Herbal Soap, 4 oz. Stress Relief Aromatherapy Massage Oil, 3 oz. Stress Relief Therapeutic Mineral Bath Salt and an Exfoliating Ramie Soap Sack. Don’t forget to add in some candles and your favorite Zen CD for your moment. $20.95 Dwellsmart.com
Holiday Zen Wisdom Print Eco Yoga Mat This Wisdom Yoga Mat features a cooling blue with an elegant floral print. Created from all-natural rubber that’s non-toxic, eco-friendly and biodegradable. $29.99 Gaiam.com
16 greenliving | December 2011
Sweet Lips Sugar Kiss Lip Butter This kissable lip-smacker from LaLicious is sure to be a popular stocking stuffer. This ultra-emollient lip treatment boasts a highly concentrated blend of Shea Butter, Beeswax and Jojoba Seed Oil to lock in moisture and create a long-lasting protective barrier against environmental elements. Lip Butter is all-natural and formulated free of parabens, preservatives and sulfate detergents. The best-selling Sugar Kiss scent is infused with notes of citrus, rose and vanilla for a fresh, tropical scent. $12 Lalicious.com
Pet Donation Phoenix Animal Care Coalition This year, why not give a present in the form of a donation to a local animal shelter, or adopt a friend for the family? PACC 911 brings together over 100 animal welfare organizations throughout Arizona, providing support for animals through fundraising efforts, adoption events, education and an Emergency Medical Fund (EMF). Find an organization through their website at Pacc911.org or donate to their EMF.
Honey Baby Honeycomb Mini Blanket This snuggly, 100% organic cotton Honeycomb baby blanket with a cozy weave is sure to be soothing against baby’s skin—it comes in adult sizes too! $50 Coyuchi.com
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One person’s recyclables is artist Cheryle Marine’s treasure. From light bulb packaging materials and food wrappers to discovered objects like salt and pepper shakers, old documents and gears, Marine finds both inspiration and material for her art in everyday “stuff.” She traces, rubs, and casts various items, turning 3D objects into 2D works of art. Her pieces make a subtle statement about a society consumed by stuff, and often evoke a memory of one’s previous purchases. Her work combines textures as unique as the materials from which they are made. You have to give a recycling nod to an artist who lists tar paper as a favorite supply. “I’m really into roofing materials,” she states. Pieces from $300 to $10,000, available from the artist via email at eyeartthou@aol.com.
Green Gift Guide ecocentricity!
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thrift store plates, salt shaker covers, etc. Come choose your own garden. From our Creative Reuse Gallery!
Luscious, all natural handmade soaps from Strawberry Hedgehog. From our all local and natural skin care section.
necklaces and earrings from cool vintage buttons and coins. Come see what else our artists turn into jewelry!
artisan gift wrap made from newspaper! Come to our class Dec. 5 and make your own.
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137 West McDowell Road, Phoenix | Wed-Sat 11am-6pm facebook.com/ecocentricity greenlivingaz.com
December 2011 | greenliving 17
A -
White vintage table. Craig's list $185.00.
B -
8 Masc. white vintage chairs thr ift stores ($5.00-$25.00 for two head table chairs). All have been painted and recovered by me and now look like a million bucks...easy DIY project. All you need is a staple gun, fabr ic and paint of your choice.
C -
Table runners, white ruffled fabr ic and burlap. Made by Candice Cook $35.00 available on Etsy.
D -
Misc white milk glass vases found at thr ift and antique stores, pr ices var y from $1.00-$25.00 a piece.
E -
Mercur y glass vases and candle holders all DIY projects from Pinterest. Made with glass and looking glass spray paint from Wal-Mar t cost per piece $3.00-$15.00. Mercur y glass can be expensive unless you make it yourself, Def initely look up a diy tutor ial before attempting at home.
F -
Book page holiday wreath DIY project. Cost your time and maybe a $3.00 book.
G -
Chargers metal tin from the dollar store $1.00 each.
H -
Vintage pewter tins $3.00-20.00 per piece from antique and thr ift stores.
F
H
G E
D C
A
B Table Design by Lettie Peterson, rustandlace.blogspot.com Photography by AngelinaRosePhotography.com
18 greenliving | December 2011
greenlivingaz.com
D
A A -
Burlap cur tain backdrop. Made by my fr iend. Cost $1.00$4.00 per yard for burlap at your local fabr ic store.
B -
Vintage table $30.00 local thrift store Salvation Army.
C -
Vintage chairs. Pr ices var y from $5.00$10.00 per chair at your local thr ift store.
D -
Branch hanging over table painted white. Free get the clippings from your own backyard. Candels attached to branch in jars. Jars from WalMar t $5.00-$10.00 per set. tea lights from any craft or retail store $3.00.
D
C
G
F
E
E -
Wood planks made from wood in my backyard cut by my husband. Free. Don’t have a handy husband go to your local craft store.
F -
Vintage china. $1.00-$3.00 per plate from your local thr ift store.
G -
Vintage jars with baby’s breath. Vintage jars available at your local thr ift store or antique store (Merchant Square in Chandler) Baby’s breath available at your local grocer y store or CostCo usually $5.00 per bunch.
B
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December 2011 | greenliving 19
Pets
Battle of the Bones Rawhides MaRRow shanks CoMpRessed BY STEPHANIE LOUGH
No bones about it, there are a lot of options when it comes to giving dogs their signature treat. All types of bones provide stimulating activity and satisfy the innate urge to chew, but are some better than others? That seems to be a controversial question among dog owners. From the dog’s health to the dog’s own enjoyment, pet owners are given a lot of options and are told a lot of information, but not all information is based in fact. So, what type of bones is best? “There isn’t a best bone,” said Dr. William Bracken, D.V.M., of Arcadia Animal Clinic. “At least, there is not a bone that is 100 percent right for every dog.” Dr. Bracken advises that when it comes to picking out the bone, there are a few things an owner needs to be aware of, first being that bones barely have any nutritional value. The purpose of the bone is for chewing, which helps clean the teeth and massage the gums, but that can be achieved after only 20 minutes of chewing a week. Any more than that is for the dog’s enjoyment—nothing else. “Before picking out a bone, you need to watch the characteristic of the dog: his size, if he is a compulsive chewer, his jaw strength. It is more about the big picture, not just ingredients or the bone- making process, to find out what is best for your dog.” For compulsive chewers, Dr. Bracken recommends getting a larger bone. If the bone is too small, they are at risk of quickly gnawing the bone to a piece small enough to be swallowed. That can irritate the esophagus, stomach, and even the intestinal track. However, if a bone is too large, a dog may not chew it simply because he or she is intimidated. As for rawhides, which recently have been gaining a bad rap for being too flimsy for dogs and causing choking and lacerations, Dr. Bracken says it is extremely important to read the labels. “Rawhides can be great for dogs, depending on where you get them. I cannot stress how important it is to get a USA made, natural beef hide. I also recommend that you use compressed rawhides, which are harder than the ones with knots, and harder to break off into smaller pieces.” Dr. Bracken did identify one bone he would never recommend to his patients, and that is a raw bone. Raw bones are typically from beef or buffalo, generally have bits of tendons and meat remaining, and must be stored in a freezer. The tough bones have not been through any softening procedure. “The number one injury I see caused by bones is broken teeth, usually caused by raw bones,” said Dr. Bracken. “That, the way
20 greenliving | December 2011
they splinter, and food poisoning are very common issues I see from raw bones.” It’s a controversial issue, however. Some pet owners swear by the raw bone. Marsha Murdock, co-owner of the Noble Beast, a holistic pet store in Phoenix, says raw bones are among the top sellers, and her store carries no rawhide products at all. “Rawhides are essentially a tanning product made in chemicals. If they are cut too thin, they can cause intestinal blockage. There are thicker ones made, which are better, but we stay away from rawhides here and focus on natural products.” Along with raw bones, Murdock says her most popular sellers are the raw bones and bully sticks, which are dried and twisted bull tendons. Another popular treat is antlers that have been shed naturally. All products at the Noble Beast are cruelty-free and all natural. “When people come in looking for the right bone for their dog, we pay attention to food allergies, weight issues and what they are using them for, like training treats. Teeth-cleaning bones are always popular. We have a lot of products with mint or tea tree oil that help with the bacteria.” Murdock also recognizes the need for stronger materials for dogs with stronger jaws. She recommends giving breeds like Pit Bulls and Rottweilers slow-roasted bones or antlers. Regardless of what bone you are considering, there are some universal rules when it comes to giving your dog a bone: • Observe your dog: learn his chewing style and characteristics. • Consult your vet about what kind of chew treat will work best with your pet. • Always supervise your dog with bones. Dogs are capable of making any kind of bone splinter. • All bones should be taken away once they are small enough to swallow.
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SOURCES Dr. Bracken | Arcadia Animal Clinic noblebeastpets.com
Photography by Stephanie Lough
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December 2011 | greenliving 21
Green Thumb
Growing Herbs Indoors
BY DEBORAH NEIMANN-BOEHLE
I
f you live in a condo, you might think that you are stuck with only indoor gardening and a tomato plant on your balcony. But there are plenty of us with big gardens in the yard who also grow herbs indoors. Growing herbs in the garden is great if you want to freeze pounds and pounds of pesto or make enough spearmint tea to last a year, but once the plants reach maturity and start to flower, many people no longer like the flavor as much. And if you want fresh parsley or cilantro in the middle of winter, especially for those living in the colder climates, there is only one way to do it—by growing it in a pot inside the house. If you think that fresh herbs are cheap enough in the store, consider the fact that you are paying as much as sixteen to fifty dollars a pound for many of them because they are sold by the ounce. Herb seeds, on the other hand, cost pennies. To begin, drop two or three on top of seed-starting mix in a small pot on your windowsill, water, and in a few weeks, you have fresh herbs. As long as you always leave a few leaves on the plant when you harvest, it will continue to grow for months. If you believe that a penny saved is a penny earned, your salary for growing herbs could be more than thirty dollars an hour. It only takes a couple of minutes here and there to grow herbs in containers, and the delicious result is priceless.
In her book, Homegrown and Handmade, author Deborah Niemann discusses the benefits of growing herbs indoors as well as many DIYs and tips for gardening. The above is an adapted excerpt from her book and reprinted with the permission of the author. For more information visit antiquityoaks.blogspot.com
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FIND US ON FACEBOOK AND TWITTER December 5th is our TWITTER chat on de-stressing for the holiday with guest yoga instructors, foodies and wine experts. On FACEBOOK look for original stories on a NET ZERO home, holiday recycling, and recipes from local restaurants. Chat soon! Follow us @greenlivingaz and our Editor @TishinD!
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December 2011 | greenliving 23
Feature
Green 2011 BY JUDY ZIMOLA
“Building green” has continued apace in 2011, quickly changing from a notion to a standard as sustainable practices gain a toehold in our culture. From homeowners conducting energy audits to the building industry seeking cool design (both literally and figuratively), climate change consciousness has become more prevalent. Building with recyclable, local, renewable, and nontoxic materials is becoming a primary consideration for private and commercial projects, from retrofits to new construction. Innovations in green building and design have greatly enhanced our economy, improved our neighborhoods, and quietly, gracefully benefited our health. Green jobs have steadily grown and according to Dodge Reports, by 9.1 percent between 1998 and 2007, and with projected growth going as high as 52 percent between 2000 and 2016. Green roofs and living walls keep the surrounding atmosphere clean and cool and provide a serene outdoor environment, while low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint and carpet inside reduce air pollution and help keep inhabitants breathing easily. Integration into existing surroundings is also a key component of the green movement, and beautiful structures that worked seamlessly into their communities flourished in 2011.
warmth in. Third, it acts as a billboard for the building and draws in the public.” The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) wanted the renovation of their Atlanta, Georgia, headquarters to be a “living laboratory.” For architecture firm Richard Wittschiebe Hand, that meant designing a green building that exceeded ASHRAE’s high air quality standards, and meeting the requirements for a LEED Platinum rating. Strong collaboration between designers, contractors, and client kept the project focused, resulting in a structure that’s brainy as well as beautiful. The benefits of its technically advanced design are seen literally in the numbers— the building features a verification system that monitors and measures electricity, energy consumption, water use, and local weather conditions in real time, accessible to members through an internet database. The design also reveals the building’s inner workings, incorporating glass panels that reveal the systems, pipes, and gauges, giving visitors an inside look into the hidden elements that make a building habitable. Connection was a key concept in the design of the Life Sciences building at Paradise Valley Community College in Phoenix. “It was important to create a new sense of ‘place’ for the campus. As the building came in, we designed with what was going on between [the] buildings in mind,” said Marlene Imirzian, owner and principal of Marlene Imirzian & Associates, Architects, Ltd., The building’s most notable feature is the “Big Porch,” a large roof that shades eight outdoor collaboration pods—meeting areas designed to act as information gathering areas, enhancing student relationships. The porch also shades a bridge that connects the existing campus to the remote athletic fields and to the location of future campus expansion. “We wanted a dynamic feature, and the bridge acts as a connector, tying the building between the old and the new,” said Imirzian. The Life Sciences building also incorporates sustainability features like rainwater collection, xeriscaping, energyefficient design, and use of locally sourced copper.
What was once a dilapidated livery stable—thought to be the oldest surviving structure in Portland, Oregon—is now a gleaming example of design and sustainability. Exemplifying true pioneer spirit, The American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Portland chapter took on the challenge of renovating the historic structure, creating a building that’s been hailed as a model of urban redevelopment. What makes this LEED Platinumcertified building especially notable is not its use of cutting-edge technology, but rather the focus on reuse and demand reduction. It’s been called an “example of a common-sense approach to sustainable design,” said Dave Otte of Holst Architecture, using only “off-the-shelf” components for the renovation. For example, the building itself was adapted for reuse; it utilizes only electricity (rather than oil or gas) for heating and making hot water, and Portland’s legendary rainfall is harvested for toilets and urinals. “The planting wall really serves three purposes,” said Otte. “First, the jasmine star vines that cover it act as a cleanser for the water. Second, it’s a south-facing wall, so the blooming leaves keep the ASHRAE building cool in the summer, cube space and when the vines are bare during winter, it allows
detail
Poised on the edge of the White Tank National Mountain Regional Park and surrounded by desert, the White Tank Library and Nature Center is Arizona’s first LEED Platinum public library. Before the structure was even built, every salvageable bit of desert vegetation was dug up and moved to a nursery until
Photography by Fred Gerlich
24 greenliving | December 2011
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Feature
and Beyond
PVCC life sciences building it could be replanted around the building. Colored and patterned to match its surroundings, the library’s exterior serenely blends with its environment. On the inside, however, the building puts its habitat to work, employing natural resources to provide energy and light. A rooftop-mounted photovoltaic collector system provides 27 percent of the power for the building, and all power is generated entirely from clean energy sources on a netzero pollution basis. Expansive windows bring in natural light and offer amazing views and, if inspiration strikes, there are 25 miles of hiking trails right outside the Nature Center. Stylish, intelligent buildings aren’t the only structures with sensitivity. U.S. 60 Gonzales Pass won a Crescordia Award and the President’s Award for Site Development and Landscape (Public Sector) in Valley Forward’s 31st annual Environmental Excellence Awards program. The ten-mile stretch of scenic road, gateway to Superstition Wilderness and Tonto National
Forest, was widened from two to four lanes while respecting the area’s aesthetic beauty, and keeping environmental impacts to a minimum. Over 35,000 cacti were inventoried and replanted, wildlife crossings were installed at known corridors, and boulder groupings were re-established to keep small reptile habitats intact. 3D models of the landscape’s contours and hills helped teams visualize the driving experience. “To point to two dots on a map and say, ‘There’s where we want a road’ is simple,” declared Berwyn Wilbrink, transportation manager for Jacobs Engineering. “The challenge is to make it look like it blends with the landscape.” Working with landscape architects Logan Simpson Design, Inc., and the Tonto National Forest, the firms formed a strong alliance. “A successful, environmentally sensitive project such as Gonzales Pass requires collaboration,” said Wayne Colebank, principal with Logan Simpson Design. “All parties need to keep the result in mind, and adjust their plans according to what best suits the final product.” The steady to increased demand for green construction projects demonstrates that green building and remodeling is more than a trend—it’s rapidly becoming a standard. According to the latest Green Building Market and Impact Report, LEED certification is expected to reach two billion square feet in 2012. With beautiful, efficient, and hard-working structures becoming more visible, we can anticipate a future that’s easy on the earth as well as the eyes.
SOURCES Arch Innovations, archinnovations.com Ashrae, ashrae.org Green Building Market and Impact Report
U.S. 60 gonzales pass
Green Education Foundation Mcgraw Hill Construction U.S. Green Building Council, usgbc.org Valley Forward
Judy Zimola is a freelance writer whose interests include but are not limited to petrified wood, shoes, art books, and running. She’s written articles for Nebraska Life and No Depression magazines, as well as several anthologies.
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December 2011 | greenliving 25
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BY JASON MOSLER
A
s part of a universal movement toward a greener tomorrow, the jump to alternative fuels dominates dinner table conversations in households across the country. We constantly hear about hybrids and electric vehicles as clean air options, yet a new trend has emerged—biodiesel fuel. Biodiesel is a fuel composed of vegetable oil, soybean oil or other waste products. Blends are becoming more readily available, but some consumers remain skeptical because of common myths that give this fuel source a stigma. Some of those myths include: Myth: Biodiesel uses food to create fuel Fact: Actually, it’s the waste from food or cooking that provides the means to make biofuel (e.g. vegetable oil from the bottom of the french fry pan). It can also be made from recycled plant and animal waste. Myth: Using biodiesel is equivalent to pouring fryer grease into your car’s fuel tank Fact: Fryer grease can be used in the production of biofuel, but it cannot function as biofuel by itself. Myth: Biodiesel is much less powerful than regular fuel Fact: Regular fuel provides approximately 142,000 BTUs (a
measurement of heat energy), whereas biofuel provides about 139,000 BTUs. This means that some people may notice a slightly less powerful acceleration performance, but the difference from petroleum diesel is insignificant. Myth: You must change your fuel system in order to use biodiesel Fact: Biofuel blends currently on the market are suitable for any diesel motor without any modifications. Myth: The cost of biodiesel is more than petroleum diesel Fact: Initially biodiesel can be slightly more expensive; however, that will change once biofuel production can keep up with demand. Essentially, the more biofuel is produced, the cheaper it will become. We have the capacity to control the cost of biodiesel through supply and demand because we can actually grow our own fuel as a nation. Biodiesel is available today at many pumps throughout the U.S. in the form of a blend, because no engine’s fuel system is yet equipped to handle pure biodiesel. Looking ahead, biodiesel blends have the potential to serve as a replacement for petroleum diesel. Anything that can run on diesel fuel—ships, trains, boats, trucks, and generators included—can also run on biofuel, which can have a huge effect on how our country runs in the future. Schools like Universal Technical Institute, which has a campus in Avondale, Arizona, are already training automotive technicians to repair engines that use biofuels. In addition, biofuels help to boost the U.S. economy and significantly reduce tailpipe emissions containing sulfur, which contribute to global warming. The future of biodiesel depends how the public embraces it. If our nation can accept biofuel as an alternative to petroleum diesel, then the future is very bright…not to mention sustainable. The world doesn’t have to choose between clean air and motor vehicles—it is possible to have both.
Jason Mosler is Technical Team Lead at Universal Technical Institute – Avondale Campus
28 greenliving | December 2011
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Adaptive Reuse
Paradise rePurPosed BY KRISTIN GLOCKSIEN
A
drive through the Central Corridor of downtown Phoenix today is a lot different than it was even five years ago. The adaptation of old buildings for new life (adaptive reuse) has recently been flourishing in Phoenix more than in any other Valley city. And for those mid-century minded, the restaurant Hula’s Modern Tiki on Central Avenue, just south of Camelback, is an Atomic Age lover’s paradise. Owner and Phoenix native Dana Mule spent a considerable amount of time looking for the perfect location to open his Hawaiian-inspired restaurant before he finally found the quirky building along Central Avenue. “We [Mule and partners Chris and Craig Delaney] fell in love with the building, and wanted to ensure that we were respectful of the architectural fabric of uptown Phoenix,” Mule said. Conveniently located along the light rail, Hula’s Modern Tiki opened in September 2009 and business has been booming ever since. “Given the current state of the local and national economy, we have been very blessed to see our business slowly grow since we opened,” Mule admits. The building, located at 4700 N. Central Avenue, used to house Heap Big Beef sandwiches in the 1960s and, after that, a flower shop. According to Mule, the building, which has a rather peculiar hexagonal exterior, is much more visibly stimulating than it was in the ‘60s. “The original A-frame structure pays subtle homage to the Polynesian island culture, and the classic tiki bars and restaurants of the ‘40s As part of their and ‘50s,” he said. growth and dedication to With the added touches of sustainability, Polynesian-tropical-islandtwo electric car influenced cuisine and a modern, charging stations mid-century take on design, were just installed... Hula’s Modern Tiki is a restaurant for all ages. “As soon as you step into Hula’s, you feel the renewed spirit and energy we imbued into the original structure by turning it into something relevant and modern without losing the [building’s] original integrity,” Mule said. What makes Hula’s unique to Metro Phoenix is a combination of great food, unique, cool cocktails, and a hip, casual and urban atmosphere. “By taking an iconic, yet ailing mid-century building and turning it into a new, vibrant, urban space, [it provides a
30 greenliving | December 2011
place] for the people of this community to gather and interact,” Mule said. After close to a $1 million renovation, Mule doubled the size of the building to 2,900 square feet and added seating for up to 125 people at the indoor bar and an outdoor patio area. Adaptive reuse is the process of adapting old structures for new purposes. Since many old buildings outlive their original purposes, adaptive reuse allows these buildings to bring new life to the community while maintaining their historic value. Mule believes that an adaptive reuse program allows the city to “generate jobs and revenue by opening new business, while still maintaining the integrity, texture and history of Phoenix’s original architecture.” The city’s Adaptive Reuse Program began as a pilot program in April 2008 and has since become one of the most comprehensive of its kind in the nation. The program “offers development guidance, expedited time frames and reduced costs to customers looking to ‘recycle’ older buildings for new business uses” as stated on the City of Phoenix website. The idea of adaptive reuse “preserves our history, contributes to economic vitality, promotes building effort and creates a more vibrant downtown neighborhood,” it continues. Mule explains that because Hula’s was renovated at the start of the Adaptive Reuse Program, he encountered some difficulties. He says Councilman Tom Simplot is a huge supporter of the program, and “was instrumental in helping us overcome some key issues related to it.” greenlivingaz.com
Adaptive Reuse Since opening Hula’s Modern Tiki, Mule has had firsthand experience watching the revitalization of downtown Phoenix. “This community/area of Phoenix is the only place to be if you want that hip, diverse, urban-cultural vibe,” he said. “The light rail is a boon as well, since it makes uptown accessible in a way that it never was before.” As part of their growth and dedication to sustainability, two electric car charging stations were just installed along the building’s west side - visitors can eat and charge at the same time! Hula’s Modern Tiki is using adaptive reuse to its advantage and has started a trend that could be the catalyst for continued revitalization in Phoenix, making the Central Corridor the envy of the rest of the Valley. “My hope is that new business will continue to open here, perpetuating the process of revitalizing the entire Central Corridor, and bringing so many of these great, old structures back to life,” Mule said.
Interior under construction. The original A-frame structure pays subtle homage to the classic tiki bars and restaurants of the ‘40s and ‘50s.
a recipe shared
HULA’S Classic Key Lime Pie This pie is a variation on the historic dessert of the same name. Limes and eggs are sourced locally and though it’s comprised of fairly simple ingredients, the combination of flavors is distinctly Hula’s. Green Living scored big-time in obtaining this recipe for you, as Hula’s rarely discloses the secrets behind the grass skirt. INGREDIENTS 8 oz. (1 cup) sweetened condensed milk 4 egg yolks 5-6 oz. (10-12 tbsp.) Key lime juice 2 cups ground animal crackers 1/4 cup butter Zest of 4-5 key limes
DIRECTIONS Crust Combine melted butter with crumbs, by hand, until butter is absorbed. Pack into the bottom of a 10” spring form pan (about a 1/4 inch thick). Bake at 300 degrees for 6 minutes, or until lightly golden brown. Cool before using.
Night Photography by Jack London
Pie mix Whisk together egg yolks, condensed milk, lime juice and lime zest. Pour mixture into spring form pan. Bake at 300 degrees for 10 minutes.
Historic Construction, Hula’s Modern Tiki and Key Lime Pie Photography by Tory Garcia
Cool and serve with a thin cross section/slice of lime, and fresh whipped cream.
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December 2011 | greenliving 31
Architecture
Taking Green to the Next Level BY DAVID M. BROWN
T
wo Scottsdale architects have enjoyed great success in sustainable design initiatives, taking green building to the next level—literally. Nick Tsontakis, AIA, principal of Tsontakis Architecture LLC, and Tom Norris, AIA, of Norris Architects, have both designed and overseen the construction of two-story additions that incorporate many sustainable elements. For Ahwatukee clients Greg and Elaine Riggle, Tsontakis recently completed an attachment to their home with a sustainable methodology in mind. It included a 490-square-foot ground floor addition with an exercise room and bath, and a folding NaNa Wall door system which opens out to the pool area. The 407-square-foot upper level includes a home office and a balcony with a tempered glass railing – all designed with a sustainable method in mind. “I was looking forward to having Nick design my retirement home office and exercise room,” Greg says. “His use of energyefficient systems and green materials has maximized my savings and enjoyment of this project.” Design of the new addition works seamlessly with the original home and the guest house Tsontakis designed for the Riggles in 2006. The guest house includes 598 square feet on the ground level and 520 square feet on the upper level, and maximizes views of South Mountain Park, which abuts the property. “By continuing with the same architectural style for the guest house, everything looks as though it was done at the same time,” Tsontakis says. Sustainable features to prevent cooling or heating loss were included in the addition, as the ceilings are R-40 and the walls R-28. The HVAC system comprises 22 SEER Trane on-ground units with two energy-efficient variable-speed heat pumps and low-e tinted Pella glazing, which includes butt joint glazing at the panel joints. “We used spray foam insulation on the roof and walls. This sealed off air infiltration,” says Tsontakis, whose firm has been designing custom homes in the Valley for 15 years. “We created vaulted ceilings so that the insulation is right up against the roof. This eliminates attic space and offers more dramatic ceilings and volume.” Tsontakis strategically placed the stairwell on the west wall with just three 2x2-foot clerestory windows that let in natural light while minimizing heat gain. “This worked out well because no
32 greenliving | December 2011
important views were missed and it gave both the Riggles and their neighbors some privacy,” he says. Other sustainable elements include the use of low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paints and stains, including the natural walnut flooring on the stairwell and office floor, bamboo floor tile in the exercise room, dual-flush toilets and compact fluorescent ceiling lighting. Onto the next addition, Norris’ client, an artist working from home, requested a 1,600-square-foot partial two-story “casita” addition, where the second floor is an open mezzanine overlooking her art studio below, and includes a loft with a horizontal steel-railing balcony facing north Scottsdale’s landmark McDowell Mountains. The exterior of the casita matches that of the main house, and the sustainable and energy-efficient Omni Blocks used for the exterior walls are in their natural state, with no paint or drywall. Manufactured in Tucson, the Omni Blocks are high-thermal-mass internally insulated concrete block. This contemporary approach allows the guests to see the structure with the open trusses covered only by plywood roof decking. “The working systems of the casita, such as the electrical conduit and the copper fire sprinkler system, are all a part of the industrial look,” says Norris, a certified sustainable educator since 2009. The energy-efficiency package includes the Omni Blocks, six inches of foam insulation installed out of view on top of the roof decking, and a Trane 20I high-efficiency heat pump with two heating and cooling zones operating through a duct-sock air distribution system that provides even air flow across the rooms, all open to view. Additionally, Norris located the two thermostats
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December 2011 | greenliving 33
Architecture
remotely so only small 1x2-inch heat sensors are visible. In addition, high-efficiency low-e3 windows soften the Arizona sunlight. Norris followed the same contemporary design theme for the casita’s interior. The mezzanine has 18-foot ceilings, allowing this level to be open to and expose the 12-foot ceilings of the lower great room work area. The second level is supported by an Omni Block interior wall and consists of 4x12-inch floor joists that are overlaid with 2x6-inch tongue-and-groove floor decking, which also serves as visual impact for the ceiling of the kitchen and bath area below. The first-level bath was designed to be ADA accessible and modifiable for future needs. The floor is scored concrete and sealed with a soy-based nontoxic product. The shower head and vanity faucets are low water flow as is the 1.2-gallon-per-flush Toto toilet. The hanging track light systems in the bathroom and throughout the addition use CFL bulbs for reduced energy consumption, while allowing the owner to not only move individual lights but also the entire system to suit her artistic and entertaining needs.
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34 greenliving | December 2011
“For my client, function, sustainability and indoor air quality were at the top of her wish list,” says Norris, who notes that this was the first Scottsdale sustainable project for 2011 under the city’s pioneering Green Building Program. He explains that she will be using the new space as her art studio, office and guest accommodations. “I was excited to have had the opportunity to design and build this casita in a minimalist approach and to build in so many elements that make it energy-efficient for my client, and environmentally responsible for the community as a whole,” says Norris.
Valley-based writer David M. Brown writes on green buildings. If you have a story idea, he is at david@azwriter.com and dmbrownone@msn.com.
Photography by Scott Sandler Comment on this article at greenlivingaz.com
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Feature
While low-impact travel has its roots in the wilderness, urban travelers can learn much from our eco-tourist friends. Applying low-impact practices to your travel, whether rural and rustic or urban and cultured, has a positive impact. Consider these during your next excursion:
BY BARBI WALKER
H
istorically, low-impact travel has referred to ecotourism and meant traveling to fragile rural or wilderness areas to learn about preservation, ecology and the indigenous people. Today, it’s viewed as incorporating sustainable practices to leave a smaller “footprint” regardless of destination. Ecotourism leader Martha Honey, co-founder and co-director of the Center for Responsible Travel (CRES), formerly CESD, says one definition of ecotourism is “the practice of low-impact, educational, ecologically and culturally sensitive travel that benefits local communities and host countries.” Taking into account the world’s vast amount of travelers, we can and should extend this practice to all avenues of travel. Consider this; a record number of 59.7 million visitors came to the United States in 2010, according to the Office of Travel and Tourism Industries (OTTI). Although the final numbers aren’t in yet, the OTTI predicted a 6 percent increase in 2011 and a continued annual growth of 5 percent over the next four years. That’s a whopping 81 million visitors, or 36 percent increase by the year 2016.
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Plan ahead and be prepared It may seem obvious, but taking time to study up in advance helps you get the most out of your travel. The Leave No Trace Center for Outdoor Ethics indicates four important reasons for planning ahead: • It helps ensure the safety of groups and individuals. • It prepares you to “Leave No Trace” and minimizes resource damage. • It contributes to accomplishing trip goals safely and enjoyably. • It increases self-confidence and opportunities for learning more about nature and the area you are visiting. Check the Leave No Trace website, lnt.org, for detailed information on traveling lightly through the national parks and campsites. Planning ahead also gives you time to research companies that practice eco-friendly options or follow Leave No Trace principles. Taking time to learn about your destination often helps uncover unique trips like those offered by Off Grid Getaways near Flagstaff. With solar-powered yurts and log-sided camper cabins, you can experience nature at its most pristine, or off grid. At Off Grid Getaways, conservation is key. Rainwater is collected for household use, and propane fireplaces and heaters keep you toasty warm. Located in the Coconino National Forest at the base of the San Francisco Peaks just outside of Flagstaff, the remote location enables you to disconnect from technology and connect with nature—wildlife by day, and stargazing by night. You can also arrange a low-impact cross-country ski trip, or snowshoe your way to your own private cabin or yurt. The Flagstaff Nordic Center rents cross-country skis and snowshoes and can help you plan a trip through miles of well-groomed trails and hikes. The U. S. Forest Service has designated much of the area around the center as motorized vehicle-free so wildlife sightings are more prevalent. If you want a winter wonderland getaway, start planning now!
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36 greenliving | December 2011
Spending locally has a positive impact on the local economy. Look for local merchants that provide tours, transportation, food and lodging. Whether you bicycle, cross-country ski or hike, there are plenty of opportunities to put low-impact travel into practice and support local businesses. If you are seeking adventure, like rafting the Grand Canyon, look for local companies with good reputations and long histories of environmental focus. Arizona River Runners has been conducting whitewater rafting tours down the Colorado River through the Grand Canyon since 1970. This well-established company takes its stewardship to the greenlivingaz.com
Feature Grand Canyon seriously—so much so that they proactively upgraded all motors on their riverboats with an award-winning, low-emission, outboard motor. The E-TEC engine, made by Evinrude, is the only outboard motor to win the Clean Air Excellence award by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Arizona River Runners follows and promotes the Leave No Trace principles to minimize environmental impact, and changing to the low-emission engine was right in line with the company’s values, says co-owner Bruce Winter. “Because the new Evinrude engines produce very little smoke and less noise and vibration, we can provide a more enjoyable experience for our guests,” said Winter. “Using cleaner and quieter technology also has less of an impact on wildlife.” Even if your trip is more urban-oriented, using local transportation such as buses, trains, trolleys or bikes still benefits the local economy and causes less environmental impact. If you are visiting the city of Scottsdale, take the trolley - it runs on biodiesel fuel which contains no petroleum and is produced from renewable, domestic resources. The trolley service is available for both visitors and residents.
Take nothing but pictures Maybe you have heard this credo? You’ll find it in guide books and every national park, but it’s worth repeating. “Take only pictures and leave only footprints.” Taking a small stone or shell or picking a flower can have a severe impact if done repeatedly. It’s said that a photograph is worth a thousand words, so share your memories the digital way.
No Trace principle), it’s important. Don’t leave anything behind to ruin the experience for others, or the ecosystem. Thinking about the impact you have on others, even after you leave, demonstrates respect for others and the area you are visiting.
Be respectful of the environment Remember that, while you are a visitor, others call your travel destination home. Also, being considerate of others around is courteous and thoughtful. Talking loudly or playing loud music—even if it’s through your headphones—is disrespectful to others. Although we are much more casual in public society than years past, not everyone wants to hear your iPod playlist or about your latest endeavor. A good rule of thumb is to act more like you would in church, synagogue or at the library, at least when it comes to conversation and noise.
Conserve natural resources Whether you stay in a resort, small local B&B, or a yurt, make sure to conserve natural resources. When you’re traveling, apply the same rules you would at home. Turn off the faucet while you brush your teeth, and turn off lights and the TV when you leave. Also, most hotels provide (and recommend) the option of having your linens washed less often to conserve water. Do that too— here in the desert, that practice is critical. Being an eco-tourist and low-impact traveler means thinking about others and your personal impact on them—whether it be plants, animals, people or your surroundings. Taking time to plan and educate yourself about your destination not only helps you save time and money, but the planet too. SOURCES azot.gov Arizona River Runners, 1-800-477-7238 epa.gov/air/cleanairawards/winners-2004.html> lnt.org travelgreen.org
When you leave, make sure to take everything with you. Even if you have to pack out your own trash or waste (another Leave Comment on this article at greenlivingaz.com
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Responsible Travel Handbook 2006, page.travelearning.com/content/RT_Handbook.pdf wttc.org
Photography courtesy of Arizona River Runners Barbi Walker is a freelance writer and an award-winning journalist. Barbi lives in Phoenix with her husband and young son.
December 2011 | greenliving 37
Travel
Yangtze Dammed? A Cruise Downstream Five Years Later BY CARRIE SIMMONS
O
ne of the most controversial public works projects ever undertaken—the Three Gorges Dam—came under fire from ecologists and humanitarians alike. Located in Central China, the dam, one of the largest in the world, displaced over one million Chinese residents along hundreds of miles of the Yangtze River. The raised water along the banks submerged the homes of animals and people, as well as sacred sites. The slowed water flow has increased sediment deposits upstream of the dam, causing increased water levels and decreased sediment deposits downstream. Some say this phenomenon puts the sedimentary plain on which Shanghai is built at risk, and the fact that it is built on a fault line causes increased risk of earthquake and landslides. Although the cruise ship industry was opposed to the Three Gorges Dam, publicly stating increased water levels would force cruises to stop, and that local tourism would suffer, cruises are still running five years later. The most popular route leaves from Chongqing, about 1,000 miles west of Shanghai, and winds through Three River Gorges to Yichang just downstream from the dam. It’s a perfect way to find out what it’s really like along the Yangtze River. After careful consideration, I decided on a Sanctuary Cruise along the river. The ship offers first-class accommodations in spacious cabins with private balconies. It has a lower passenger capacity, which means I get more peace and quiet as I soak in the atmosphere. Plus, the company is looking out for the environment by fitting the ship with a state-of-the-art sewage disposal system (a real problem up-stream of the dam where water can become stagnant) and a rigorous recycling program – concepts very rare in rapidly expanding China. The three-day journey took us through three soaring gorges along the river, several towns, a side trip to a smaller gorge, and through the locks of the Three Gorges Dam. Our first stop was the town of Fengdu. Our cruise director, Scott, arranged for me to meet two families and view their home, one of whom relocated there because of the rising river and who has resided there for years – a basis for comparison. For the non-relocated family, their traditional home had dirt floors, three dark rooms, and no electricity. Outside of the front door they had a hand-crank grain grinder and encouraged me to give it a go. Admittedly, turning the massive stone around the barrel quickly tired my untrained arms. The homeowner, a frail woman who looked to be in her 80s, had no problem flinging the stone through the grain as she hunched over the grinder.
38 greenliving | December 2011
At the home of the relocated family, we were greeted by Ling, a middle-aged woman, who was very proud to show us her shiny, new appliances, including her multiple color TVs. Their new home was “much better,” she told me; it even had air conditioning and running water. When I ask her if she liked it more than her house along the river, she looks a bit sad and admitted “I miss my neighbors, my friends,” many who were separated upon relocation. While the amenities might be more modern, and equate to a better quality of life, this woman bemoans the lost connections – people who made up a healthy village. A bit further down the river, we entered our first gorge. Scott stood next to me on the deck questioning the area’s continued popularity and reflected on how it used to be “much grander,” before the dam. I disagreed. The views of verdant cliffs that soared above the boat on either side, some as high as 1,000 feet, took my breath away. I took picture after picture as mist floated down above the muddy river that shrouded and revealed pagodas and tiny roads along the cliffs. “It’s all new,” said Scott. “The villages that once stood here are now underwater.” I considered the fact that the rising water covered many sacred and historical sites, including ancient burial grounds. Is the loss of history worth the “cleaner” hydro-electric power generated by the dam? Between the gorges, I boarded a small launch boat that took us to a mini-gorge where the “boatmen” followed the ancient custom of running on the shore alongside the boats, using ropes to pull it upstream. During the journey we were introduced to some area tribesman who gave us insight into life along the Yangtze River long ago. Many of these villagers still live simple lives, without electricity or running water, walking for miles to work each day along dirt paths. They were not in the rising water zone nor relocated. Our final attraction was the dam itself. The Chinese government runs tours to the dam, highlighting the immensity of the project and their ability to provide electricity to more people than any other hydro-electric project in the world. The dam tour mentioned nothing of the lost sacred sites or the semihappy relocated people. It does not mention the earthquakes or landslides. It touts amazing facts about the obstacles overcome by “The Party” (that’s the Communist Party) in order to modernize China. So, while China may be moving forward in economics and modernization, they are leap years behind the rest of the world in regard to environmental consideration and heritage preservation. But is a cruise down the Yangtze still worth the journey? Absolutely! Carrie Simmons is the producer of Travel With Kids, a family travel documentary series airing on television around the world and has traveled to five continents in search of adventure. Look for the show on PBS this fall. For more information on the series, visit TravelWithKids.tv
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December 2011 | greenliving 39
Art
ECO-ARTISTS
BY LISA CHRISTIAN
Metal car parts, blown glass, license plates and wine bottles - some of the materials these Arizona-based artists are using for their expression. We encourage you to support local art and partake in art walks!
Home Dec RX Bye, Bye Birdie Pendant or Plate? Just in time for the comeback of ‘70s fashion, Phoenix-based jewelry maker Cynthia Caldwell has created a line of bracelets and pendants made from used license plates. One part whimsy, one part retro, these statement pieces are as unique as they are stylish and eco-chic. Slip-on and cuff bracelet styles show off state names, while pendants feature smaller symbols and icons from license plates. If you have a fondness for a particular state, Caldwell can often locate the license plate and hand-craft a piece to your specifications. Bracelets and pendants from $30 - $50.
Flying a different direction, Caldwell is also known for her small, fanciful bird pendants. Made from glass cast-offs from her artist husband’s blown glass projects, Caldwell embellishes the birds with found objects, giving each piece its own personality. The birds hang from silver chains and conjure a peaceful vibe, sure to make both the wearer and admirers smile. $50
If your newly redecorated room looks good, but not fabulous, you might be suffering from hotel lobby syndrome, a.k.a. lack of personality. We prescribe a quick cure from Phoenix-based artist Andrew Seiferth, who resurrects found objects that bring soul and a sophisticated, recycled aesthetic into your home. A coffee table made from an old door (functioning door knob or hinge still attached), with stylish metal legs fashioned from a bed frame might sound junky, but looks classically modern in Seiferth’s design. Check out the metal planter made from an old microwave, or the garden boxes fashioned from used wooden furniture. No reclamation project is too great a challenge for this artist. Pieces range from $90 - $400.
Rock the Timepiece
Drink from the Bottle Hard-partying recyclers, take heart. So you’ve polished off a few bottles at your favorite wine bar like Postino or La Boca— rest assured that, thanks to glass artist Ray DelMuro, your used bottles aren’t polluting our planet. DelMuro turns empty bottles into mod glassware, some glasses even boasting a bottle’s original “punt,” the conical indent in the bottom of a wine bottle. DelMuro estimates he’s saving more than 16,000 bottles per month from the landfill, all collected from local wine bars and restaurants. Colors and sizes can be mixed and matched, with pitchers and vases available. Glass sets from $25 – $30 make a perfect gift for the Mad Men fan in your life.
40 greenliving | December 2011
These concrete art wall clocks will keep you rock-solid on time, and in eco-style. Made from one concrete—and accented with found objects such as reclaimed metal car parts and pieces of glass, creator Christine Cassano combines fun and function. Handmade clocks available from $100 - $225.
Pieces made by eco-artists mentioned above are available at Practical Art, a gallery and retail store featuring handmade objects by more than 75 Arizona artisans. Practical Art is located on Central Avenue, just north of Camelback Road in Phoenix. 602-264-1414. practical-art.com
Gardeners a-Buzz Looking for a gift for the green gardener in your life? Consider a solid bee habitat made from reclaimed wood and found objects by Tucson-based artist and landscape designer Greg Corman. What appears as a beautiful natural wood sculpture is, in fact, drilled with small tunnels that provide nesting places for solitary native Arizona bees. These passive bees are not stingers or the type that make honey – they are known as pollinators and when they are doing their jobs, a garden flourishes. The bees coexist with people so well that Corman has even made benches that double as bee habitats, and you can actually, well, sit on it quite happily. Whether as art, a bee house, a bench, or all three… this gift is green. Habitats from $100 - $300.
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NoRTH Arcadia | Chef Christopher Curtiss NoRTH FATTORIA ITALIANA 4925 N. 40th Street, Phoenix 602-324-5600 | *gluten-free options, call for details
G
rowing up in Northern California, Chef Chris Curtiss was surrounded by a culture of food and wine, which sparked his passion for a future in the culinary world. His journey as a promising young chef began at the age of 14 when he sold produce for a family farm at a local farmers’ market, for which he was paid, in part, with fresh produce. Cooking with that produce and experiencing firsthand the passion and pride of the farmers drove home the importance of farm-to-table. Curtiss’ first professional cooking job was for a French chef at a restaurant in San Francisco. Learning everything he could about menu preparation using seasonally changing ingredients, Curtiss worked his way up the ranks. He continued his handson education in fine dining establishments throughout Northern California, and by the age of 25, the tables were turned and he was training budding young chefs. After five more years in San Francisco, as sous chef at two different well-known restaurants, Curtiss eventually headed south to be closer to his family in Arizona. He began working at another fine dining restaurant in Scottsdale where he was the executive chef, and created a menu that changed every day. Curtiss also spearheaded the kitchen at Restaurant Noca, a AAA Four Diamond, James Beard nominated restaurant in Scottsdale
known for its seasonal style of cuisine. Most recently, Curtiss joined Fox Restaurant Concepts as the executive chef for the newly opened NoRTH in Arcadia, where his cooking philosophy, and farm-to-table background, have had a profound impact on the menu formulation. A first for this award-winning chef, Curtiss was given the task of creating three separate menus for weekend breakfast, and daily lunch and dinner. Drawing inspiration from a variety of regions, the dishes are Curtiss’ interpretation of traditional Italian cuisine. “My goal with the menu was to bring a sense of authenticity to the dishes, without being a snob. I like to cook food that’s honest, simple and balanced, using the flavors of Italy as my inspiration.” A true labor of love, every dish is prepared with meticulous attention to detail. The menu features seasonal ingredients, madefrom-scratch pasta, hand-tossed artisan pizza, fresh salads, housemade sauces, meat and seafood dishes, and breakfast specialties. Every dish follows pure, simple recipes allowing the individual flavors to shine. According to Curtiss, “The ingredients should speak for themselves.” Continually aspiring for excellence with his cuisine, Curtiss enjoys sharing his passion for food and wine, and is excited to welcome the community to NoRTH. Photography courtesy of Fox Restaurants
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December 2011 | greenliving 41
Cool Outrageous
Recycled Stocking The kids will dig it if you change up your mantel with this repurposed Capri Sun wrapper stocking from TerraCycle. It’s 14” tall. Dwellsmart.com Terracycle.com
2 [Don’t Blow a Circuit It won’t process your WORD document, but these coasters made from real circuit boards from TerraCycle will protect your coffee tables and keep more waste out of the landfills. Dwellsmart.com
4 [ Wrap Your Gift
Owner Kathy Klecan of ReWrap grew tired of all the wasted holiday paper and decided to wrap her gifts with fabric. Today her thriving “rewrap” business is keeping waste out of the landfill! ReWrap comes in five sizes, 63 different fabrics with a coordinated ribbon, and is reasonably priced between $2 -$7. The best part is you can wrap it with regular tape over and over again. Mombomb.com, Rewraponline.com
pEditor’s Pickf PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF NARUSE INOKUMA ARCHITECTS
1[
For the high-tech person in your life, give the gift of time with these clocks made from actual circuit boards. Dwellsmart.com, Terracycle.com
5 [ All in One Recognized as one of the best green designs from DESIGNTIDE Tokyo 2011, the “All in One” serving dish, designed by Naruse Inokuma Architects of Japan, is made from a maple tree. This piece can be used as a focal point for your next cocktail party. Art and food – what synergy. Office@marukuma.com
6 [Soy Scarves
3 [ Macquariums Steve Jobs would be proud that his computers are being repurposed for the home… or for some small fish? Owner Jake Harms of Macquariums repurposes old Apple computers into fish tanks complete with lights and a filter! These are so hot that Harms has a waiting list. For an Apple enthusiast, it’s a no-brainer! Macquarium.jakeharms.com
42 greenliving | December 2011
You can’t eat it, but you can sure wear it. Made from a blend of 50% soy, 44% organic cotton and 6% spandex, this soft blend from Xylem Clothing can brighten up your winter wardrobe. Scarves come in ebony, sky, cocoa, cherry and crème, and each color is blended with custom mixed low-impact dyes. Runka.com, Xylemclothing.com
Send us your cool and outrageous finds to submissions@greenlivingaz.com
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He’s Green she’s Green
She is: Jennifer Burkhart He is: John Burkhart
This month our green couple put paper products to the test, and we don’t mean for the office – paper towels, plates, napkins - even toilet paper. Will stewardship and the softer side come together? Seventh Generation Napkins
He said These are napkins. They work just like any other napkins, but they’re Earth-friendly, and dye- and fragrance-free. I read somewhere that if every household switched from “virgin pulp” napkins to these, we would save almost a million trees. And that’s a huge impact for such a small switch. He gave it:
100% Recycled Paper, 90% post-consumer content
Earth First Paper Towels
sHe said I usually prefer cloth over paper napkins, to reduce waste. But sometimes you just need paper napkins, and buying 100% recycled is the green way to go. Why is it important to buy products made with recycled content rather than “virgin pulp?” Do you like forests and all the creatures that call them home? ‘Nuff said. These napkins are soft and lightly textured, but were a bit too thin, and I occasionally needed two of them to do the job. She gave it:
He said These Earth First towels are made from non-chlorinated, 100% recycled paper. They cost less and absorbed just as much liquid as the name-brand towels (30 mL per sheet). Even the packaging is biodegradable. I’m sold.
sHe said It’s easy to be green with these paper towels! They stood up to cleaning mirrors, countertops, and messy spills without falling apart. They aren’t made from trees, and are whitened without chlorine—all from a company right here in Phoenix. I’d buy them again in a heartbeat.
He gave it: She gave it: 100% Recycled Paper, 80% post-consumer content
Green Mission Bathroom Tissue
He said Wow, there’s like a million jokes here but I think I’m just going to play this one straight. I can’t lie, this bath tissue was definitely ROUGH, if you know what I mean - but if it’s the price I have to pay to save countless trees and keep nasty chemicals out of our waterways, then so be it.
sHe said Sharing bathroom details isn’t typically a habit of mine, but this is in the name of research, so here goes! I gotta admit, the supertextured and crunchy stiff feel of this tissue worried me. It wasn’t cheese grater bad, but it was a bit rough and not always sturdy. Sorry, tissue, but you gotta stay in one piece while doing the job.
He gave it:
She gave it:
He said I don’t know if it was good luck or bad luck that caused the wife and me to come down with colds during the tissue review month, but it happened! I put these tissues through the wringer, blowing like crazy, and I never got that irritated Rudolph the Reindeer nose. These tissues were soft even with 80% post-consumer material. Enough said.
sHe said With 100% recycled material, I was expecting these to be equivalent to wiping my nose with industrial sandpaper. Not so! While I’d choose something a tad softer while battling a cold, these are great for daily or occasional use. Your nose, and the forests, will thank you for it.
100% Recycled Paper, 80% post-consumer content
365 Facial Tissue
She gave it: 100% Recycled Paper, 80% post-consumer content
World Centric 10’’ 3 Compartment Plates
Made from wheat straw fiber
greenlivingaz.com
He gave it:
He said World Centric thought outside the box and used a byproduct of the wheat and sugar industry to make paper plates. I was a bit concerned that they might be flimsy, so I soaked one in water for an hour and I still had a hard time poking a fork through. I would prefer a recycled plate but this is definitely a step in the right direction.
sHe said Save a tree and get these plates made from the stalks of wheat plants, a renewable resource. They only come in light brown, but have a smooth surface and an overall high-quality feel. They were very sturdy, and held up to every meal we tried. If you ever wanted to eat a steak off of a disposable dish, this is your go-to plate. And when you’re done, they are fully compostable in your backyard in three months!
He gave it: She gave it:
December 2011 | greenliving 43
Grape Chicken Salad INGREDIENTS 2 cups green seedless grapes, cut in half 1 tbsp. whole grain mustard 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, cut in quarters, roasted in the oven with sea salt and olive oil (approx. 20 mins. at 350Ëš)
2- 8 oz. chicken breasts, oven roasted or grilled, pulled Salt and pepper, to taste 1 tbsp. Queen Creek Olive Mill blood orange olive oil
DIRECTIONS Combine all ingredients. Serve in lettuce cups or atop slices of rustic bread. Serve and enjoy! Recipe provided by Chef Josh Hebert of Posh restaurant
Apple and Prosciutto Sandwiches Christmas Dream Cocktail
INGREDIENTS 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 cup chopped walnuts 2-3 tbsp. Parmesan cheese or shaved Parmesan cheese 2 tbsp. fresh minced rosemary 1 loaf of focaccia bread
8 slices prosciutto (one per sandwich or more if you prefer) 1 apple sliced thinly (granny smith or honey crisp preferably) 8 oz. Brie cheese, remove the rind and slice
DIRECTIONS In a blender, combine the oil, walnuts, cheese, and rosemary; cover and process until blended and the nuts are finely chopped. With a serrated bread knife, split the focaccia into two horizontal layers. Spread the dressing over the inside cuts of the bread. On the bottom bread layer place a slice of prosciutto, apple, and brie. Place other half of focaccia on top. Cut into quarters. Cook on a preheated indoor or outdoor grill for 2-3 minutes or until bread is browned and cheese is melted. Cut each wedge in half and serve. Recipe provided by Healthy U TV
44 greenliving | December 2011
INGREDIENTS 1 oz. amaretto 1 oz. heavy cream 1 oz. vodka Ice Sprinkle of nutmeg
Photography by Kelley Karnes
Serves 8
DIRECTIONS Mix all liquid ingredients with ice in a shaker. Shake. Strain into a chilled martini glass. Add a sprinkle of nutmeg to the top. May substitute organic vodka. Recipe provided by The District
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Green Pages
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Family-owned and operated for 30 years December 2011 | greenliving 45
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46 greenliving | December 2011
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“A Southern Arizona Bed & Breakfast” 3 Harshaw Creek Road Patagonia, Arizona 85624 (520) 394 - 0121 or (866) 394 - 0121 spiritreeinn@aol.com spirittreeinn.com
973 W. Elliot, Suite #2 Chandler, AZ 85225 1 (800) 737-1986 or Order Online natureshealthshoppe.com Mon.-Fri 9-8 | Sat. 9-6 | Sun. 10-5 Family owned and operated since 1986.
“All Mail Is Priority Mail” 112 N. Central Avenue #A-8 Phoenix, AZ 85004 (602) 463-8081 bikeforceus.com Bicycle Commuter Depot, 100% Green Delivery
Green D i rec to r y Rubbish Works “Hauling – Recycling – Pick Up” (800) 501-9324 | rubbishworks.com We offer On-demand Labor, Hauling, Waste Disposal, Junk Removal, Rubbish Pickup and Recycling Solutions for both residential and commercial customers.
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December 2011 | greenliving 47
Green Personality
John neville President and Founding Board Member of Sustainable Arizona Tell us a little about your background and how you ended up in Sedona. My wife and I are New Englanders who lived 30 years in Minnesota before moving to the Southwest - youth in the East – adulthood in the Midwest – aging in the West. I’ve been a business consultant in learning systems, corporate communications and sustainable development.
Please give us a brief overview of goals and progress for the latest initiatives at Sustainable Arizona. Sustainable Development is where everything comes together to help improve the quality of life today and for the future, and all of our projects are focused with that mindset. Verde Resilient Communities is a network of organizations working in different ways to end our economic dependence on fossil fuels. The goal is to help create resilient, self-reliant communities. Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency is part of local self-reliance. We host workshops and tours to help people learn to use the sun, wind, geothermal, biomass and, most beneficial, innovative conservation methods that allow us to do more with less energy. Sustainable Economic Development is our means to manage how we live in the natural and man-made environment. We’re working with the Sustainable Economic Development Initiative of Northern Arizona (SEDI), the Verde Valley Regional Economic Organization (VVREO), and other organizations and businesses to create the Green Business Network and the Value the Verde Ecotourism Initiative. The goals are to help businesses improve their operations, reduce their negative impacts, collaborate for stronger performance, protect the natural environment and support local communities. We have signed up more than 100 businesses so far. Visit GreenBizNAZ.org and VerdeGuide.org.
What other organizations does Sustainable Arizona partner with in Arizona? We collaborate with organizations across Arizona, including SEDI, VVREO Local First AZ, the Phoenix Green Chamber, Sustainable Tucson and many other economic and environmental groups. Networking and collaborations are the keys to sustainable development.
Why do you believe environmental education is important to integrate into our classrooms?
with natural systems, children obtain the essential framework they need to learn everything else. To thrive, we all must become systems thinkers with the ability to adapt to the rapidly changing world.
What water issues haven’t really been addressed in Arizona? Most of them. First, water as a human right, not a property right. Water must be conserved and used sustainably for the common good. Second, we must know our water resources – what water do we have, how much is being used, and how well is it being replenished. Importing water to compensate for bad planning is intrinsically unsustainable. But that’s what we do.
The home you designed in Sedona won four awards for green living–what is your favorite design element? That would be the systems design which integrates the location, orientation, structure, windows, energy and water systems into a whole working, breathing home. The result is a comfortable, secure and efficient dwelling that meets our needs.
What advice do you have for individuals, organizations and/or businesses that want to get involved with Sustainable Arizona? Visit our website, SustainableArizona.org, or our LinkedIn Sustainable Arizona group, or our pages on Facebook. Share your ideas, your questions, your dreams.
Educating for sustainability is a proven process. The purpose of environmental education is to help prepare children to thrive in the world they are about to inherit. When you segregate children apart from the environment, you force them to learn discrete subjects as if life were a bunch of disconnected entities. Whereas, in the environment, children can appreciate natural systems and the innate laws that govern the earth and everything within. Teachers can create connections between real life and science, technology, engineering, arts and math. By making these critical connections
48 greenliving | December 2011
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What are your top three dishes you like to cook? • Pesto pizza with grilled veggies and seafood • Chicken with a cinnamon and chili rub and a sauce made with poblano peppers, shiitake mushrooms and tortilla served with grilled root veggies • Salmon with pesto sauce, risotto with Portobello mushrooms and garlic asparagus (wife’s favorite) greenlivingaz.com
What
did you do during the recession?
YOU planted over 5000 trees in Brazil YOU brought jobs and opportunity to our community YOU helped thousands of children battle childhood disease YOU consumed less barrels of fuel than the year before YOU saved an average of $3.00 per taxi cab ride, when compared to the competition Clean Air Cab would like to thank you; for becoming our largest supporter and contributing to bringing life back to the community.
Become part of the solution. Clean Air Cab...We’ll take you there Call 480.777.9777 or reserve your taxi online at CleanAirCab.com
WE GIVE YOU THE POWER OF THE SUN.
623.879.0010 www.harmonsolar.com 21410 N. 15th Lane, Suite 112 Phoenix, AZ 85027 ROC 134789 ROC 070948