Monday, June 29, 2015
think green
Going GREEN is easier than ever! Find helpful tips in our special section to make your life simpler and more environmentally friendly.
GOING ‘GREEN’ MEANS
SAVING GREEN!
ALL IN THE
FAMILY
From diapers to school projects to cleaning and cooking!
a special supplement to
At home, in the car and while shopping... Find tips on how to save the planet and your bank account
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HOW TO
GO GREEN IN SCHOOL By Metro Creative Services
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eachers and school officials are the first line of defense when it comes to protecting the environment. Their responsibility for educating the next generation of youth puts the importance of environmental education firmly in their hands. The skills that students learn today will help them protect the planet as they grow. Incorporating lessons on environmental responsibility is just one of the steps teachers can take to educate youth. Imparting hands-on practices is a more realistic and earth-friendly way.
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Switch Your Font ... 3. Use pencils … or at least recycled pens. There is debate as to whether pencils or pens are better for the environment. Both require energy for production and chemicals. However, at first glance it would seem that wood pencils or recycled wood products would have the advantage over plastic pens because wood naturally decomposes. Bic and Papermate have come up with green options for pens and pencils, but it remains to be seen if cost plays a role in how many people will use them.
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START TODAY! 4. OPT FOR TRASH-FREE LUNCHES.
1. Reduce paper consumption. Paper is a big problem at many schools. Photo-copied assignments, notebooks and loose-leaf paper are the staples of the school day. But they don’t have to be. Adopt a new approach in the classroom. Many students are computer savvy, and digital files can replace many assignments printed out on paper. Older students can log into a teacher-specified Web site to download homework or complete assignments online, or even convert them to a PDF and email for grading. Younger students can use dry-erase boards or digital tablets in the classroom to eliminate extra paper usage. 2. Use cloth book covers. Plastic and paper book covers are generally the norm. However, once they wear out or are no longer needed, they’re thrown in the trash, contributing to unnecessary garbage. Have students cover their books in fabric. Some manufacturers offer elasticized fabric book covers that can be stretched over different-shaped books and used each year, reducing waste.
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thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
Packing lunch in reusable containers is a way to eliminate the amount of garbage that lunch produces. A thermos or reusable water bottle, sandwich containers, washcloth and a cloth lunch box instead of paper lunch bags are all means to reducing trash. School lunches can also reduce trash because items are prepared in bulk and served on reusable lunch trays.
5. Turn it off when not in use. Show by example in the classroom. When the class leaves the room, turn off the lights and shut down electrical equipment, such as computers. 6. Fight for low-emission school buses. School buses take thousands of children to school each day, reducing the number of vehicles that need to be on the road. Contract with companies that use newer-built school buses that are more fuel efficient and spew fewer emissions into the air. Children who live within safe walking distance to school should not be eligible for bus service. 7. Focus assignments around green living. All subjects can be given a green twist. For example, math class lessons can talk about calculating the savings in amperage by switching to a CFC or LED light bulb over an incandescent one. Science classes can measure how long it takes regulary used materials to decompose. There are many ways teachers can provide a concentrated source of green education, helping today’s youth to be prepared for protecting the planet in the future.
PROTECT THE PLANET? By Metro Creative Services
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he font type and size used to print documents can mean the difference between being green and using more ink and paper, according to research.
Think back to high school or even college. Teachers often set guidelines for typed reports and term papers. They specified the font and margin size for a reason. Otherwise students would use extra-wide margins and turn in a paper typed at 16 point size to easily meet the page number requirements of the assignment. By reversing that logic, one can reduce the amount of paper and ink used for any printed documents and be green in the process.
Font Facts Certain fonts are used for readability and cross-platform compatability. However, these readable fonts may not conserve as much ink as other options. The key is to find a balance. Serif fonts, or those that have small lines and decorative edges, tend to require less ink than wider, sans-serif options. Also, fonts that have the word “narrow,” “thin” or “condensed” in their names generally use less ink as well. Printer.com, a Dutch company that evaluates printer attributes, has studied the font situation and compiled information on what fonts may save ink, and thus money and energy. Times New Roman and Century Gothic, for example, use less ink than popular Arial. Simply by changing the default font to Times New Roman can mean about 30 percent less ink. With the average printer cartridge or toner costing $10 or more, that adds up to considerable savings over the course of a year. It is also recommended to use the “draft” setting of the printer when printing less important documents, because this setting reduces the saturation of ink.
Paper Cutbacks While changing a font type certainly can make a difference in ink usage, the bulk of the environmental benefits come from reduced paper usage. To achieve this, a condensed font combined with small margins and a smaller, yet still readable point size can increase the amount of text that fits on a standard page. Thus, fewer pages need to be used when printing. This trick paired with printing on both sides of the paper greatly reduces the amount of paper used for regular printing needs.
Pickier Printing Of course, being selective about what is printed is an ideal way to reduce paper usage. Many companies and individuals are opting for electronic statements, emails and the like, which are viewed on the monitor and saved as digital files. This reduces paper usage and extra trash. The average American household can save on 6.6 pounds of paper and 171 pounds of greenhouse gases simply by switching to electronic statements. While that benefits the earth, it also reduces clutter inside of the home in terms of filed paperwork and excess mail. It doesn’t take a lot of effort to go green. Small changes like a change in font and point size can help individuals do their part.
thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
IMPROVE INDOOR AIR QUALITY By Metro Creative Services
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any people wouldn’t intentionally eat or drink poison. Most individuals are very conscious about what they put into their bodies. However, oftentimes people show less concern about the potentially harmful substances that they could be breathing in.
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2. Replace carpeted mats for rubberized ones. Choose recycled rubber mats, which will require a hose-down instead of shampooing with strong carpet cleaners.
2. Change furnace filters monthly. Reduce the dust and allergens in the air by changing your furnace or air conditioning system filters on a monthly basis. Also vacuum intake vents. You can consider having ductwork cleaned by a professional service, too.
8. Test for hidden dangers: Radon, carbon monoxide and asbestos could be lurking in your home. Testing eliminates threats and can safeguard your family.
5. Use all-natural cleaners. Chemical-laden cleaners don’t simply smell strongly, they can actually be very harmful if breathed in. Also, never mix cleaning products (such as bleach and ammonia). It can produce a toxic gas. Lemon juice, vinegar, baking soda, and other all-natural items can be very effective cleaners. 6. Vacuum carpets regularly. Carpets and fabrics can harbor dust and other allergens. Some newer carpets are created to reduce allergens, but most carpets should be cleaned two to three times a week, primarily in high-traffic areas and in homes with pets. 7. Eliminate leaks. Drippy faucets or a damp basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. While many types of these fungi are harmless, there are some that are very
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By Metro Creative Services
9. Call in a cleaning crew: Regular cleaning can limit the amount of particles floating around in the air. Keeping the house spicand-span can clean the air as well. Having a regular cleaning service come in can be a way to fit a thorough cleaning into your busy schedule. 10. Dial down the humidity: Run the exhaust fans in bathrooms and invest in a dehumidifier. Mold and mildew, as well as dust mites thrive in moist conditions. 11. Launder sheets and pillowcases every 10 days. Buy machine-washable pillows and bed linens. 12. Kick out pests. Allergens from roaches are a major cause of asthma, and airborne protein from dried rodent urine is a potent allergen. 13. Air it out. On low-particulate days, throw open the windows and let the fresh air in. 14. Check the venting. All appliances should be properly vented. Make sure vents are free of obstructions. Appliances should be serviced according to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule to avoid combustion byproduct buildup and reduce dust and particulate accumulation.
3. Invest in a quality shop vacuum or high-powered vacuum. Routinely vacuum the interior of the vehicle to prevent ground-in dirt. 4. Buy seat covers. Instead of using harsh
chemicals to clean upholstery, removable seat covers may be able to be washed in a washing machine and cleaned with eco-friendly detergents. 5. Stock up on dusting cloths. Staticcharged dusting cloths can be used to collect dust and debris from the dashboard and instrument panel. This reduces the need for spray dusting products.
1. Keep up with mess. If you clean as items become soiled you won’t have to rely on harsh chemicals to remove set-in stains.
harmful if breathed in. If you have a mold or mildew problem, call in a professional for a threat assessment and advice on proper cleaning.
4. Avoid pressboard furniture. Many composite wood products contain formaldehyde and other chemicals. These can leach into the air over time.
CAR CARE TIPS
Many times detailing the interior of a vehicle requires a lot of strong chemicals. But it doesn’t have to.
1. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoke contains known carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) and a host of chemicals. If you can’t quit just yet, be sure to smoke outdoors.
3. Fill the house with plants: Plants naturally filter the air and give off fresh oxygen. They also add aesthetic appeal.
7 GREEN INTERIOR
aking green changes to the way you care for your vehicle extends beyond the type of fuel you use or keeping your tires properly inflated. Modifications to the way you care for the interior can mean the difference between eco-friendly and not.
Air quality — and the harmful substances swirling around in the air we breathe — often goes unnoticed because air is invisible. If air changed colors noticeably when it was contaminated, it would be easier to regulate our intake. Because it doesn’t, it’s up to people to be conscious of what they’re breathing in, and they can start from home.
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6. Replace interior air filters. Most new vehicles have an air filtration system for the interior of the vehicle. Clogged filters can proliferate contaminants inside the cabin of the car. Frequently change the filters to ensure cleaner interior air quality. 7. Leather interior fixer. You don’t need expensive or harsh products to condition leather interior. To clean leather seats, for example, use a small drop of eco-friendly dish liquid worked into a damp rag. Clean the stain or seats. Use a damp, clean rag to collect any remaining moisture and soap residue. Buff with a dry cloth. Apply a miniscule amount of olive oil to a cloth and work it into the leather to condition it. Don’t use too much or you’ll be left with oily seats and a mess.
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Do The Math! • Cost to install new geothermal system in average home ............. $25,110.00 • Cost to install new conventional system ...................................... $10,000.00 • Difference between two systems ................................................. $15,110.00 • Federal Tax Credit .......................................................................... $7,533.00 • Net investment for geothermal system after credits ...................... $7,577.00 • A 30 yr. mortgage @ 6% would add this amount to your payment..... $45.00 • This home has and average monthly savings of ................................. $94.00 • The home has a projected annual HVAC bill of ............................... $1000.00 Keep in mind the above example is for a new home; if this were an existing home your investment would be much less.
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thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
Simple Means to Saving Money
WHEN GOING GREEN Drop a few degrees in the shower to save thousands later. By Metro Creative Services
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f the recession of 2009 paid any positive dividends, the realization by many people that they need to pay closer attention to their personal finances would no doubt be one of the more beneficial side effects.
That realization not only helped people gain greater control of their personal finances but it also helped the environment as well. As people began to look for ways to save money, things like increasing the fuel efficiency of their vehicles and saving on their energy bills began to take on greater importance than they otherwise might have.
Use higher watts and fewer bulbs to save on your energy bill.
But those hoping to continue saving in the years to come can also make several small adjustments that can end up paying big dividends for their bottom line and the environment. • Use your dishwasher. While it might seem that a dishwasher would be environmentally unfriendly, that isn’t the case at all. Doing a full load of dishes in the dishwasher is more efficient than washing those same dishes by hand in the sink. For example, energy-efficient dishwashers use roughly 4 gallons of water per load. However, when washing a full load’s worth of dishes by hand, you can expect to use between 20-25 gallons of water. So using the dishwasher will help time money off your water bill while helping save water as well. • Consider moving the refrigerator. If the household refrigerator is exposed to direct sunlight or within spitting distance of the oven range, chances are the heat generated by either the sun or the range is forcing the refrigerator to use more power than should be necessary to operate. Refrigerators use
as much as 2.5 percent more power for each degree that the surrounding room temperature is above 70. If it’s simply not feasible to move the refrigerator, consider hanging curtains to shade it from direct sunlight. • Get rid of excess appliances. While a garage refrigerator is a nice throwback to yesteryear when homeowners routinely worked in their garages, those days are largely gone while the power-hungry appliances remain. Unless you routinely work in the garage, get rid of the refrigerator and other appliances such as a basement freezer that might be nice, yet unnecessary, luxuries. • Check the toilet for leaks. One way in which many households routinely waste is via a leaky toilet. Unlike a leaky faucet, a leaky toilet isn’t always obvious to the naked eye. To determine if your toilet has a leak, pour a little food coloring into the water in the tank and avoid using the toilet for a couple of hours. If, after a couple of hours, the water in the bowl has started to change colors, then the flapper in the tank is leaking. Replacing the flapper is inexpensive and easy, and can save you thousands of gallons of water each month while lowering your monthly water bill as well. • Turn the water heater temperature down a tad. Many people enjoy a hot shower, and there’s definitely nothing wrong with that. However, turning the water heater temperature down by as little as 20 degrees can reduce the monthly water bill while prolonging the life of the water heater at the same time. A higher temperature on the water heater leads to more mineral buildup and corrosion and a higher utility bill as well. But turning the temperature down 20 degrees won’t make for too noticeable a difference when you get in the shower, and it will save you money and wear and tear on an appliance that can cost more than $1,000 to replace. • Use higher wattage light bulbs. At first glance, increasing the wattage on light bulbs can seem as perplexing as the aforementioned tip to use the dishwasher more. On the surface, it might not seem as prudent or as energy-efficient. However, it really boils down to simple math. One light in a room that uses a 100-watt light bulb can substantially illuminate a room.
Dishwashers can use up to 21 gallons of water less than doing them by hand.
The location of your refrigerator helps save energy.
Don’t let your money go down the toilet. Check your toilet for leaks. Oftentimes, one light with a 60-watt bulb cannot. As a result, many times people employ the use of two lamps with 60-watt bulbs to light a room instead of going the more efficient route and using just one 100watt bulb to light the room. What’s more, one 100-watt incandescent bulb emits more light than two 60-watt bulbs despite using less power. So decrease the amount of bulbs you use and up the wattage, and you’ll notice your home will magically get brighter as a result.
thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
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Reap the benefits of a
WELL-INSULATED GREEN HOME Performance
serious health and safety concerns and lead to costly repairs.
By SCOTT McGILLIVRAY Metro Creative Services
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any of us know that insulation plays a key role in keeping our homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer. But did you know the benefits can go well beyond achieving basic R-value requirements? Quality insulation can provide a number of added benefits that contributes to the comfort, safety and efficiency of a home, including:
Sound absorbency Life is loud, but the right choice of insulation can help reduce noise transfer throughout your home. Insulating between floors and interior walls can help create a peaceful sanctuary in areas of your home, even when life is chaotic.
Look to products that will not off-gas or emit harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds).
Savings A properly insulated building will be more energy efficient, a benefit that will continue to provide return on investment long after the insulation install is complete. The result is reduced heating and cooling costs, less stress on your furnace and air conditioner (potentially leading to a longer equipment lifespan) and, at the end of day, more money in your pocket.
Fire-resistance
Good indoor air quality goes a long way toward ensuring personal comfort.
Certain insulations, particularly stone wool insulation products such as Roxul Comfortbatt and Safe ‘n’ Sound, can help buy valuable minutes in the event of a fire, withstanding temperatures of up to 1,177˚C.
Choosing insulation that is water repellant and resistant to mold, mildew, fungi, bacterial growth and rot can help to prevent common issues behind your walls that may pose
Non-combustible, this insulation exceeds the limits of most other insulating materials, and it won’t produce smoke or encourage the spread of flames.
A safe indoor environment
It’s important to remember that not all insulations are created equal. Some insulations can sag or contract over time, leaving gaps that can let outdoor air in and conditioned air out. Choosing insulation that is dimensionally stable, durable and that offers long-term thermal performance will ensure your home can stand up in even the most challenging conditions. Stone wool products are proven to perform in even the most extreme conditions, making them ideal for use in the United States. Ultimately, you can purchase insulation as many do, based on basic R-values. But when it comes to quality, comfort, safety and efficiency, is basic really the best choice? Quality counts when it comes to all building materials. Always look for products that will deliver benefits well beyond the status quo. Scott McGillivray is an award-winning TV host, a full-time real estate investor, contractor, author and educator. Follow him on Twitter #smcgillivray
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thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
• Remember something as simple as the seeds can make a big difference. Oftentimes, the region of the country will dictate which choice of grass seed is best for a given lawn. That’s because a grass that’s suited to a particular area will require less maintenance, which means less water and less reliance on substances to prevent or fix problems. Using less water is environmentally friendly, as is using less chemicals to solve problems related to the lawn. Consult with your local nursery or garden center for the types of grass seed best suited for your region. • Organic diets can benefit the lawn, too. Many people prefer organic foods these days because of their taste and their smaller carbon footprint than processed and preserved foods. But organics aren’t just good for humans, they’re good for lawns as well. Instead of chemical-based foods and fertilizers, consider an all-natural diet for your lawn. Compost heaps can generate important nutrients for your lawn and plants and can be created simply from lawn clippings, raked leaves and the uneaten scraps from your kitchen — like fruit rinds, eggshells and leftover coffee grounds.
EASY WAYS TO
AN ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY LAWN A wellmanicured lawn was found to increase the value of a home anywhere from 5 to 11 percent.
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By Metro Creative Services
he growing emphasis many homeowners place on keeping their property pristine is reflective of many things. Though it’s quite possible a reflection of the enjoyment many homeowners take from landscaping, it’s more likely a reflection of the impact a well-manicured lawn can make on the overall value of the property. In a study conducted by Michigan State University, a well-manicured lawn was found to increase the value of a home anywhere from 5 to 11 percent. Much of that might be due to curb appeal. A home with curb appeal is one that is appealing to the naked eye, meaning prospective buyers already have a good first impression before even stepping foot inside the home. A home with great curb appeal will attract more prospective buyers, likely adding the amount homeowners can add to their asking price. As the popularity of landscaping has grown, so too has the popularity of responsible landscaping. More and more homeowners are not only spending their weekends caring for their lawns, but doing so in a way that’s beneficial to the environment. For those hoping to follow suit, consider the following tips.
By Metro Creative Services
8 WAYS TO TURN YOURSELF INTO A GREEN GOURMET
Eating organic and easily sustainable foods is a surefire way to do your part for the environment. However, there are many other ways to go green in and around the kitchen. 1. Invest in quality cooking tools. Cheaper isn’t always better when it comes to utensils, pots and pans. Higher quality items will better stand the test of time and will be less likely to end up in the trash with moldy leftovers. Invest in kitchen staples that are sturdy and will last. It makes a good investment. 2. While we’re talking about leftovers, don’t let them go bad in the refrigerator or freezer. Keep them in eyesight so you can have last night’s vegetable casserole for lunch today. Also, being mindful of how much you cook and portion sizes enables you to be less likely to waste leftover food.
• Install an irrigation system. While soaking a lawn with water might seem good for the grass, chances are it’s not very good for the environment. An underground irrigation system, however, is designed to water lawns and plants at the root level, strengthening the grass and plants and saving some water in the meantime. Many systems are timer-operated and water in the early morning or early evening hours when the water will have maximum potential to benefit the lawn. These timer systems also make it possible for busy homeowners to maintain their lawns without making a major time commitment. • Reduce reliance on pesticides. While pesticides are necessary in certain instances, homeowners can reduce their reliance on pesticides and save some in so doing. Some insects are too pesky and could be a great threat to a lawn, but it’s important homeowners don’t overlook the many benefits insects and animals can provide. Worms, birds, butterflies and some beetles can consume harmful “bugs” like aphids, mites and other leaf eaters. Bats are even good to have around, as bats often prey on biting flies, gnats and mosquitoes, pests that can make outdoor entertaining a nightmare. • Keep the grass cut at a proper level. While Junior might want to cut the grass as close as possible to reduce the amount of times he has to push the mower around the yard, cutting too low is potentially very harmful to the grass. That’s because grass that’s cut too short is increasingly susceptible to disease, insects and drought.
3. Upgrade your appliances. Today’s energy efficient appliances can conserve energy, water and more. But before you invest in new items, find out if you can upgrade your current appliances. If buying new items is the greener option, find out if you can recycle your old stove, refrigerator or dishwasher, or whether there are regional “take-back” programs for old appliances so they don’t end up in a trash heap. 4. Cooking for two? Use the toaster oven. Singles, couples or even small families can save energy by cooking meals in a toaster oven instead of a larger oven. Many toaster ovens are large enough to accommodate a small steak, burgers, pizza, and are also proficient at reheating leftovers. 5. Buy locally whenever possible to reduce the amount of miles it takes to get the food from the farm to your table.
6. Buy in bulk … provided you’re going to use the items. Bulk items generally require less packaging than those packaged individually. Invest in items that can be used around the house, not just in the kitchen. And while you’re thinking in bulk, cook meals in bulk, too. This way you save on energy and will be ahead of the game when time pressed during the week. 7. Reuse what you can, like glass jars, plastic bottles and bags instead of tossing them in the trash. 8. Upgrade instead of replacing whenever possible. However, sometimes you may want new items in the kitchen to improve functionality or to replace something that is damaged. Look to green materials or even reclaimed or recycled items. Using antique fixtures and furniture is another great way to go green.
thinkgreen
The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015 Other individuals have actually pondered this very question. In the summer of 2009, researchers from Carnegie Mellon and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory prepared a report for Microsoft and Intel that added up the greenhouse gas emissions and energy usage associated with downloading albums and buying CDs at the store. It seems MP3s are the greener way to go.
Digital audio files are better for the environment than other methods of enjoying music, says research.
LISTENING TO MUSIC... WHAT’S BETTER FOR THE PLANET?
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By Metro Creative Services
erhaps you were one of the billions of fans who helped country crossover sensation Taylor Swift win Album of the Year at the 2010 Grammy Awards by purchasing her album “Fearless.” When you were downloading the MP3s or having her CD rung up at your neighborhood store, did you ever give thought to what way of listening to music — CD, vinyl or MP3 — is the best option for the environment?
With the CD-making process, energy goes into producing the plastic CD, jewel casing, paper liner notes and then shipping the finished products to the stores for purchase. There’s also the energy needed to power the stores in which the CDs are on display. With MP3 digital files, energy is used by the rooms full of servers and network equipment that power the Internet. Plus, you have to consider the electricity used by your home computer when downloading the music. According to the study, downloading an album of 60 to 100 megabytes uses an estimated 7 megajoules of energy and produces 400 grams of carbon dioxide. Burn that album onto a blank CD, and the figure increases to roughly 12 megajoules and 700 grams; put that CD in a jewel case, and the figures go up even further,
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to 23 megajoules and 1,100 grams. No hard data has been derived to study the impact of producing the MP3 players or computers necessary to play digital files, however. The majority of the impact of purchasing a tangible CD comes from the energy incurred driving over to buy the item. If you were to bike or walk to the store instead, the energy impact would be less. No thorough research into vinyl records, popular in decades past and experiencing a resurgence among music afficionados in recent years, has been made. However, environmentalists estimate that modest packaging (cardboard sleeves) makes vinyl a little better than jewel cases. However, the albums are made on polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is generally frowned upon in green circles. The conclusion is that downloaded digital files are generally better for the environment than other methods of enjoying tunes. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up your love of CDs or vinyl. Just be sure to properly dispose of old albums, recycle, or trade with friends when it’s time to move on to new trends.
TAKING A PROACTIVE APPROACH TO BEING EARTH-FRIENDLY • Reduce reliance on packaging. Excess packaging produces significant and often unnecessary waste. When gifting, in lieu of wrapping paper, employ a reusable gift bag. If shopping, if two products are similar in quality, consider the packaging before making a purchase. If one has excess packaging, send an indirect message to manufacturers and purchase that one. Believe it or not, market research is done on such consumer decisions, and your voice will be heard if you routinely make such decisions.
• Use cloth instead of plastic bags at the grocery store. Many grocery stores now sell reusable cloth bags shoppers can use to reduce the production of plastic grocery bags. If the local store doesnt sell them, simply purchase them online or at another store. People who have already done this often say they forget the bags when heading to the store. To combat this problem, simply place them in the trunk of your car once you’ve taken the groceries home and unloaded the bags.
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• Convenience isn’t really convenient. Nowadays, society is all about immediacy. The more convenient something is, the more popular it will likely become. However, many times what’s billed as convenient is anything but. For instance, harming the environment is never convenient, so while those Styrofoam cups at the coffee shop might be more immediately convenient than lugging a travel mug around each and every day, those styrofoam mugs are not convenient to the environment. When hosting a party, don’t opt for throwaway paper plates. Instead, choose reusable plates. They don’t have to be the fine china, but sturdy, reusable plates can be bought on the cheap at most home stores and will be far more beneficial to the environment than their paper counterparts.
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The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
HOW WELL
Use of plastic is prevalent. It is the storage method of choice, be it bins or bags. But there’s more to plastic than just water bottles and electronics casings. Find out how much you know about plastic.
1. True or False: Plastic can be found in carpeting and clothing.
1. True. Plastic goes beyond the traditional uses for this material. Plastic fibers are even used in clothing and carpeting, plus the dyes used to color these items.
2. If you had to choose a type of “safe” plastic that does not transmit harmful chemicals into foods or beverages, what would it be: polycarbonate, polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride?
Therefore, recycling clothing and carpeting is just as important as putting your used plastic canisters in the recycling bin.
3. True or False: All plastic resins can be recycled.
2. Polyethylene products marked #4 or #2 have not been found to leach unhealthy chemicals into your foods and beverages.
DO YOU KNOW PLASTIC?
4. From what material is plastic made: petroleum, coal, or wood? 5. True or False: There’s now an all-natural plastic that can be grown.
Plastic can be recycled into many different items. Otherwise it may end up in landfills.
6. How long is it estimated to take plastic to decompose? 7. Americans use 2.5 million plastic bottles every: minute, hour, or day? 8. Plastic film or wraps are used in abundance. One could shrink wrap what state with the amount of plastic film made in one year? 9. True or False: Polystyrene foam (commonly known as Styrofoam) is recyclable.
3. False. The number stamped on the bottom of the product tells you the type of resin, but unfortunately not all plastic can be recycled. Often municipal recycling programs will collect all plastics and then sort them at the recycling facility. Those that can’t be recycled are discarded with the rest of the trash. 4. Petroleum. Plastics are largely made from the byproducts of petroleum refining. They also can be made from natural gas.
5. True. Products can be made from polyactic acid (PLA), a material made from a variety of plants, such as sugar cane, corn and potatoes. The dextrose in these plants is separated, fermented, dehydrated and then crystallized to form polymers similar to plastic. 6. 1,000 years. When sitting in a landfill, experts surmise that it can take 1,000 years or more for plastic to begin to decompose, but no one knows for certain. Plastic bags can take 10 to 20 years if exposed to adequate sunshine and air. 7. Hour. It’s important to recycle those bottles because they may be able to be turned into things like trash cans, park benches, playground equipment, decks, and kayaks. 8. Texas, the second largest state in the country. 9. True. Polystyrene foam is not biodegradable, but it is recyclable. If you lined up all the polystyrene foam cups made in just one day, they would circle the earth.
The Reason You’re Not Breathing Exhaust Fumes is Because This Bus Is Powered By CLEAN NATURAL GAS.
Indiana County Transit Authority
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The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
9
DON’T LET VAMPIRE POWER
SUCK YOUR WALLET DRY Fight Vampire Power Pests 1. Reduce the demand for energy. Gadgets are certainly fun, but decide what’s a necessity and what’s not. 2. Choose Energy Star qualified electronics and appliances, which generally use less power. 3. Seek out the real “off” switch. Some devices have a soft power switch on the front that simply powers down the device. The real “off” switch may be located in the back. 4. When in doubt, simply unplug it from the outlet. 5. Use a power strip. Plug all of your devices into one power strip and turn off the power strip when not in use. This provides less hassle than juggling plugs and outlets.
Many electronic devices continue to use power even if they are turned off.
T
By Metro Creative Services
here’s a vampire on the loose, and it’s not Edward Cullen or another from the “Twilight” gang. The trouble is, this vampire doesn’t only lurk at night. It’s continually sucking up your money and affecting the environment. But there is a way to stop it without sunlight, garlic or wooden stakes. All you may have to do is pull the plug. Vampire power, also known by another ghoulish name — phantom load — is the power many plugged-in devices use even when they’re in the “off” position. Chances are if the plug is warm, it’s sucking electricity, wasting energy and costing you money. The Energy Information Administration reports that in the United States alone, vampire power costs individuals more than $3 billion a year. While one cellphone charger does not an energy crisis make, multiply all of the microwaves, televisions, alarm clocks, A/C adaptors, etc., that are plugged in throughout homes across the world, and one can quickly see how vampire power can do its share of damage. It’s estimated that many electrical devices use more energy and cost consumers more in the hours they’re not being used, simply from vampire power drain. Vampire power varies in its level of destruction. Some devices, such as chargers, have been nicknamed “wall warts” because they can waste up to 50 percent
6. Invest in a smart strip, which measures power usage of computers and peripherals. Therefore when you shut down the computer, the peripherals get powered down, too.
of power. They continually provide a charge even if there is no device. Other devices, such as electric coffee pots or microwaves, use vampire power to keep clocks working or to illuminate digital displays.
Refrigerators require monitoring of internal temperature to know when to kick the motor into gear. Televisions use phantom load to be ready on a moment’s notice to recognize a remote control signal. Other devices use the energy to make sure they don’t have to “warm up” before use; certain parts of the device are on all of the time. There is a growing threat of vampire power proliferation. As long as new technological devices come on the market, the chance for the vampire to sink its teeth into the electrical supply continues. All of these devices are known vampires: TVs, VCRs, DVD players, answering machines, MP3 players, cellphones, stereos, laptops, and desktops. Also, look out for anything with a remote, anything with a charger, or anything with a clock display.
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7. Use a “Kill-A-Watt” device. It tells you how much power an electronic device is using when on or off. It’ll help you identify the biggest power drains.
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10 The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
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9 WAYS TO ENJOY A ‘GREEN’ VACATION C
6. Rent an efficient car: If you must drive while on vacation, choose a hybrid model or one that gets great gas mileage.
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hances are if you spent any time in North America over the last few months you were met with below-average temperatures and blustery winds. Many people had dreams about escaping the cold and finding some place tropical to call home for a few days at the least.
Don’t leave the car idling, and use it sparingly. 7. Conserve energy: When you won’t be in your hotel room, turn off the lights, air conditioning/heat, appliances, etc. just as you would at home if you were going out.
Those ready to embark on a family or solo vacation may want to include plans of being environmentally friendly in their travel details. Treat yourself to a welldeserved getaway, while being environmentally minded in the process. 1. Use an electronic boarding pass: Many airlines now enable you to have an electronic bar code sent to your PDA, mobile phone or Blackberry. The bar code is simply scanned by airport personnel and flight information is verified. This eliminates paper boarding passes and can cut down on fraudulence.
If the windows can be opened, enjoy a breeze instead of turning on the air conditioning. In colder climates, open up the draperies to let in sunlight and warm up the room.
2. Hop on public transportation: Travel via the country’s extensive transportation system. When you arrive at your destination, take the subway, ferry, bus or whatever means of transportation is prevalent in the area. Leave the car at home.
4. Reserve an eco-friendly hotel: Many hotel properties are jumping on the environmentally friendly bandwagon. Hotels may be constructed entirely of green materials, or employ green operations, such as using organic linens and biodegradable cleaning products.
3. Keep it light: Don’t overpack, which leads to more luggage, heavier bags, and more energy needed to transport that bag. Try to book a place where you can wash your clothes while on vacation, or take advangage of the hotel’s laundry services. This way you can pack less.
5. Go digital: Use a digital camera to capture your vacation photos, rather than a disposable camera or one that requires film. Also, upload photos to an online photo printing service to minimize energy used driving to and from a store for photo printing.
ENJOY ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY RECREATION
8. Re-use linens: Must you have the sheets and towels washed every day? It requires a lot of energy and water to do so in hotels. Instead, hang up towels for re-use and let the cleaning staff know they can change the sheets every other day or more if they aren’t soiled. 9. Enjoy local foods: Dine on what the “locals” eat instead of imported foods and beverages. You will get a greater appreciation of the culture and customs of the area if you do so. The only exception is water. Bottled or filtered water is a must, especially if you are traveling to an area where the water condition is questionable. You don’t want to risk stomach upset.
Chances are unless “green” is your mantra, you may have not given much thought to sports and recreational activities that are environmentally friendly in nature. There are ways to simultaneously enjoy some downtime and protect the planet.
CAMPING
BEACH EXCURSIONS
FISHING
BOATING
SWIMMING
Camping is a good activity for enjoying the outdoors, but many people do not take the outdoors into consideration when camping. Overcrowding, especially during the summer and fall seasons can lead to infringement upon wildlife and off-limits areas. Rather, choose an off time to go camping and be especially conscious of how you treat the surrounding foliage and wildlife. Remember to carry out what you’ve carried in so you don’t litter. Be conscious of campfires you have started so they can be properly extinguished. And importantly, don’t feed wild animals. They can become dependant upon food from humans, and fail to forage properly on their own.
A trip to the water’s edge is a relaxing and rejuvenating recreational activity. However, the world’s oceans are continually under attack from trash, microscopic bacteria and other contaminants. While many of these contaminants leach into ocean and lake water via drainage systems or public water supplies, peak vacation season at the seaside can also contribute. If you are visiting the beach, be mindful of your litter, including cigarette butts, plastic bottles, foil, baggies, etc. Seeming innocuous items can wreak havoc on marine life, suffocating them or compromising internal organs if ingested. Also think twice about pets sharing the beach. Man’s best friend is a good companion, however, his feces, if left on the beach, can promote dangerous bacteria. Also, some parasites, such as hookworm, multiply in warm, moist conditions and where waste is present.
Reeling in your catch and cooking it for dinner is an environmentally responsible recreational activity. But fishing green can be foiled if you don’t learn about the species for which you are angling. Find out the appropriate size, habitat and feeding preferences of your chosen fish. This way you avoid by-catch, reeling in some other marine life by accident. Also, you want to toss back fish that are not of adequate size so that you ensure populations of species can continue to breed.
If you will be traveling the nation’s waterways, consider doing so in a wind-, water- or human-powered vessel. Sailboats, canoes, kyacks, and the like are emissionfree ways to navigate the water. If you must use an engine, investigate ones with an eco-friendly generator that puts the boat on auto-pilot, helping to cut back on fuel consumption and pollution.
You may want to skip the chemicalladen swimming pool for one of nature’s natural watering holes. Provided the water is clear and safe, you can dive into lakes, rivers or oceans. Seek out a hot spring and you can turn your swimming adventure into a therapeutic one.
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The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015 11
PET SUPPLIES
FOR THE ENVIRONMENTALLY CONSCIOUS
poultry industries. Instead, choose organic and natural pet foods that rely on meats from animals raised humanely. These foods are not treated with artificial preservatives.
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Sleeping Quarters
Look for pet beds that are made from recyclable materials. Many get their fluffy feel from recycled plastic that is turned into pillow stuffing. Or better yet, make your own pet beds from clothing or blankets you normally would have disposed of. In fact, your pet may enjoy having your scent on these items and the idea of familiar surroundings.
Previously Owned Pet
Adopting a pet helps reduce overcrowding in shelters and the destruction of unwanted animals. Love knows no pedigree, so choose a shelter pet that can use a good family. This also helps reduce pet store dependance on puppy mills, which tend to raise pets in poor conditions.
Sustainable Goods
Choose pet products made from sustainable materials. For example, you can purchase collars and leashes made from hemp or organic cotton. The same can be said for chew toys and scratching posts. Avoid pastic products, or ones that are not made from recyclable materials.
Spay or Neuter
Protecting pet populations by preventing unmonitored reproduction can reduce animals’ impact on the planet. Stray cats can damage wildlife and deplete bird populations. Dogs running rampant are also troublesome. Making the investment to sterilize your pet can ward off trouble from overabundance.
Food
Many pet foods are made from a lot of fillers and scrap materials. These include reconstituted animal by-products, otherwise known as low-grade wastes from the beef and
GREEN YOUR LAUNDRY
IN 8 EASY STEPS
If you’re making “green” changes in and around the house, you may want to extend earth-friendly living to your pet as well. Why shouldn’t going green go to the dogs ... or cats, for that matter? By adopting earth-friendly pet practices, you can minimize negative impacts on the planet and enjoy your pet that much more.
Chemical-Free Cleaning
The trend in household cleaning is to move
away from chemical-laden cleaning products. The same can be said for keeping your pet fresh and cleaning up the house after it. Read labels for environmentally safe shampoos, detanglers and pet cleaning products.
Bathroom Break
Pet waste is a problem. If not properly disposed, it can harbor parasites and be a health issue. Also, pet waste is simply unsightly. Innovative products help put an end to potty patrol. For example, toilet and septic systems for dogs and cats eliminate the need to really handle waste. The Cat Genie uses washable litter beads that drain liquid and a self-flushing and cleaning mechanism to put an end to traditional littler boxes. It hooks up to your water supply and an electrical outlet. Similar to a septic system for a house, the Doggie Dooley Toilet is a unit that is installed in the yard. Place pet waste inside, and natural enzymes and bacteria break down the waste and leach it into the soil naturally. This way waste doesn’t end up soiling the yard or washing away into storm sewers.
Most people equate doing laundry with getting things white and bright. But how about laundry that’s green. Green as in environmentally friendly? Everyone has to do laundry, and it turns out that in and around the laundry room there are amply opportunities to make some green changes.
3. Skip the fabric softener: Fabric softeners are often mostly chemicals, which end up being vented into the air. Natural fiber clothing won’t be prone to static cling as much as synthetic fibers, so you may be able to go without fabric softener if you wear cotton, wool and linen, for example.
that use carbon dioxide (CO2) dry cleaning, which is safer for the environment. Consumer Reports has also stated that CO2 cleans better than perc.
1. Give clothes a cold bath: Reports from the U.S. Department of Energy state that 90 percent of energy usage involved with washing clothes is from heating the wash water. Simply switching to washing clothing in cold water can save a bundle.
4. Line dry when possible: On a nice day, hang your clothing out to dry in the fresh air and sunshine to save a lot of energy. Indoors, put clothes on a drying rack. Otherwise, invest in a dryer that has moisture sensors and will automatically shut off the dryer when the clothing is dried. This reduces energy waste.
7. When the dryer needs to be run, clean the lint screen frequently: Clean out the lint trap after every load of clothes dried. This way you are sure that the dryer is running efficiently and won’t be compromised by poor air flow from a clogged lint trap.
2. Switch to powdered detergent: Liquid detergents are mostly water, and therefore require more packaging. Choosing concentrated liquids is better, but powders may offer more bang for your buck — and less waste.
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5. Look for earth-friendly dry cleaners: Most dry cleaners use perchloroethylene (perc), which is neither good for the environment nor people. Seek out ones
6. Only run your washer when there’s a full load: This will cut down on wasted water and clean more efficiently.
8. Choose Energy Star rated: Energy Star qualified washers use at least 40 percent less energy than standard washers and roughly half the water. If you’re in the market for a new washer, look for the Energy Star label.
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12 The Indiana Gazette | Monday, June 29, 2015
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GREEN IS THE NEW
BLACK NOT THE COLOR, THE LIFESTYLE.
Crystal Cabinerty’s Encore Line is made with materials that have a reduced effect on the environment and your health. The perfect option for the environmentally and health conscious consumer.
WHAT MAKES IT GREEN IS WHAT MAKES IT STRONG CRYSTAL CABINETRY’S ENCORE BOX CONSTRUCTION 1 Green-Core no added urea-formaldehyde plywood interior with natural maple veneer and non-emitting and durable UV topcoat 2 3/4” thick plywood sides 3 3/4” thick plywood shelves
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When buying cabinets, look for the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) seal to ensure the wood is sourced responsibly from well-managed forests. Crystal Cabinetry has been FSC certified since 2009. Also, the Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) seal let’s you know you’re doing your part to protect the environment. Crystal Cabinetry’s Encore Line carries the ESP seal.