Leadership Somerset 2008 Leadership Somerset Class Project -2008 Your own “Green” House

Tips on how you and Somerset County can go “Green” together Highlights

Green at Work 2 Green Volunteering 3-4 Looking at the world through Green-colored glasses

Green your Pet 5

Going “green” is fast be- The Energy Council will how to save energy, New to Going Green? 6 coming a global fact and advocate for energy money and the planet Save on Trees 6 scientific evidence shows efficiency and conserva- that was all in one place that this generation will tion and promote public and geared to the every- Recycle your CFL’s at 8 have the greatest impact day consumer. Home Depot understanding of oppor- on the environment tunities and choices re- within the next 50-100 garding energy issues. Pros and Cons of Hybrid 10- years. There are many ways to Cars. 11 begin a green lifestyle,

While the internet is full and not all of them have E-Zine Awards 37- Recently Somerset of energy saving informa- to be complicated or 38 County took the first step tion, Leadership Somer- costly. Pick out the ones in becoming a leader in set, Class of 2008, that suits your everyday helping with the growing thought that residents life and begin saving energy crisis with the for- money and the earth. E-Zine Contributors could use a source of in- mation of the Somerset formation with tips on Dale Artfitch County Energy Council. Kathleen Jones Harris Linda Levitt What you can do right now at no cost Michelle Luff The Freecycle Network™ Freecycle group. network that reduces Yumiko Mishima is made up of people who waste, saves resources Or, maybe you're looking are giving (and getting) and eases the burden on Tim Pino to acquire something. stuff for free in their own landfills while enabling Simply respond to an of- Kathye Quick towns. Each local group the members to benefit. fer, and you just might is moderated by a local Vilma Ramirez get it. After that, it's up To join the Freecycle volunteer and member- to the giver to decide who community to go Connie Richardson ship is free. receives the gift and to set www.freecycle.org put in Sandra Seeley When you want to find a up a pickup time for your town and hit enter. new home for something passing on the treasure. Claudia Shaughnessy -- whether it's a chair, a One main rule: Every- A list will be generated of Lynn Slifer fax machine, piano, or an thing posted must be free, local Freecycle networks. old door -- you simply Michael Sovak legal, and appropriate for Choose one to join. send an e-mail offering it all ages The mission of

Javier Vasquez to members of the local Freecycle is to build a Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 2

Michael G. Sovak, Contributor

We can compost and con- setting your computer item. Post employee manu- serve all we want at home. stand-by automatically, als and similar materials 8. Rethink your travel But as soon as we hit the while inactive (for 10min- online, rather than distrib- office, we turn into tripli- utes), can cut energy use ute print copies. They're Take the train, bus, or sub- cate-printing, paper-cup- by 70 percent. Remember, easier to update that way way when feasible instead squashing, run-our- screen savers don't save too. American companies of a rental car when travel- computers-all-night-so-the- energy. use 210 billion pieces of ing on business. If you paper for faxing or 17 mil- have to rent a car, some boss-thinks-we're-working earth-killers lion trees annually. Send or rental agencies now offer 3. Print smarter receive faxes on line. hybrids and other high mileage vehicles. The average U.S. office But a few changes of habit worker uses 10,000 sheets Videoconferencing and can save energy and re- 5. Ramp up your recy- of copy paper a year. Print other technological solu- sources at work. Following cling on both sides of copy pa- tions can reduce the are 10 easy tips: per, or use the back side of Make it a habit to recycle amount of employee travel. old documents for faxes, everything your company 1. Be bright about light scrap paper, or drafts. collects. Just about any Avoid color printing and kind of paper you would 9. Reconsider your com- Artificial lighting accounts print in draft or economy encounter in an office, in- mute for 44% of the electricity mode (selected from the cluding fax paper, enve- Make it a habit to carpool, use in office buildings. printer properties menu), lopes, and junk mail, can bike, or take transit to Turn off the lights when which useless ink, when- be recycled. So can your work, and/or telecommute you're leaving any room ever feasible. old cell phone, PDA, or when possible. If you need for 15 minutes or more and pager (see the Recycling Recycle toner and ink car- to drive occasionally, con- utilize natural light when Guide on the Site Portal). It tridges and buy remanufac- sider joining a car-sharing you can. is a company policy to use tured ones. According to service like Zipcar and the recycling bins near the Office Depot, each re- Flexcar instead of owning copiers and in your office. 2. Maximize computer effi- manufactured toner car- your own wheels. Call site services if these ciency tridge "keeps approxi- are not available to you. 10. Create a healthy of- Computers in the business mately 2.5 pounds of metal fice environment sector unnecessarily waste and plastic out of land- $1 billion worth of electric- fills...and conserves about 6. Close the loop Use nontoxic cleaning a half gallon of oil." products. Brighten up your ity a year. Purchase office supplies cubicle with plants, which and furniture made from absorb indoor pollution. Turn off your computer, 4. Go paperless when pos- recycled materials. monitor, and the power sible 7. Watch what (and how) strip it's plugged into— you eat when you leave for the Think before you print: day. could this be read or stored Bring your own mug and online instead? When you dishware for those meals receive unwanted catalogs, Otherwise, you're still you eat at the office. Use a newsletters, magazines, or burning energy even if refillable water bottle and junk mail, request to be you're not burning the mid- the company provided fil- removed from the mailing night oil. This is the cur- tered drinking water to re- list before you recycle the Sources listed on page 34 rent corporate policy. Also, duce bottled-water waste. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 3

Green Volunteering - Michael G. Sovak, Contributor

More than half of Ameri- TOP GREEN son more your thing? Con- by people who have been there before you; it will can adults -- and an even VOLUNTEERING TIPS nect with a GreenDrinks -- bigger percentage of teen- a global organization with help you pack light and be agers – volunteer for vari- Find the Time to Volun- hundreds of local factions culturally current. You can ous causes. In general, teer Your first reaction to where people get together also search the TreeHugger there is currently a trend the thought of volunteering over cocktails. (No Green- archives for special topics toward “downshifting, and your time may well be: Drinks near you? Volun- like environmental issues taking time out of their what time? But you can’t teer project found: Launch in disaster recovery, or re- busy lives to provide un- help others until you help a group lief housing options. And yourself. Do you need don’t forget to plan ahead paid service to others. Bring Your Best Skills to Many of these people are more time for fitness? to green your travel. Then volunteer to do some- the Table Look for oppor- taking their cue from the tunities that match your thing active. Would you Volunteer to See the National Downshifting interests and skills, and be Manifesto, which pro- invest some time in con- World “Voluntouring” is a tinuing education, building a little selfish (see tip 1 claims that individuals are above) so that you can be- growing trend. But take setting time aside for the skills or strengthening your special care in selecting resume? Volunteering can come selfless. You may be things that are important to opportunities to offer your expand your horizons and surprised to learn how them “for the benefit of my global and local environ- time and energy abroad. health, my well being, my help you build good con- mental concerns dovetail You could potentially be environment, and for those tacts. Not enough time with your family? Nothing with your day-to-day ac- taking a job away from a around me whom I dearly tivities, in your quest to love. brings people closer to- local person. Plus, exhaust- gether than working side- understand the whats and ing your money and re- whys of choosing the right by-side for a good cause. sources on international But finding the right match cause. But rest assured that between volunteer and Just remember: Don’t over- travel can get pricey, and commit, but ask yourself as a person with environ- charity is not always an mental interests, you’re those jet emissions could easy task. High-profile or- how volunteering could be perhaps be counterproduc- the value-added time you likely to be in demand. ganizations may be over- tive to your work. Also, the will anyways dedicate to Here’s why: 58 percent of whelmed with offers; Meals on Wheels pro- rapid growth of Philan- meanwhile, smaller groups goals of your own. Worried grams, for example, have thropic Travel has spurred could be struggling along this approach seems self- ish? Don’t! The most ef- lost volunteers due to some questionable prac- with too few hands. Plus, spikes in gas prices; mean- special skills may be nec- fective volunteers are those tices. Watch out for travel who do things that match while, groups such as Pedal agencies masquerading as essary, or time commit- People -- an organization their pace. volunteer organizations. ments could be too rigid. that carts recycling and The best advice is to com- delivers groceries – are It’s not unusual to ask vol- mit to something that inter- Do Your Research Use unteers to help fund their the Internet as a platform filling the gap. ests you, and then apply upkeep, but the contribu- for social networking in the same principals to you tion should be reasonable. order to find interesting Or Volunteer Away From volunteer and advocacy Home A reputable volunteer or- work you use to achieve and worthwhile causes. For Volunteering may make ganization will have success in your life and example, follow leads from sites you trust, like Planet you think outside of your longer-term people on lo- career. You may not realize day-to-day green routine. If it, but you could be volun- Green’s NGO Partners or cation who serve as a link join in the TreeHugger Fo- you are traveling to do to help newbies focus on a teering to become a green your duty, check out disas- rums. Networking in per- project. activist. ter blogs or travel blogs Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 4

Green Volunteering—continued

As always, ask for refer- role in changing the world? advocate for a greener VOLUNTEERING ences, which is the best Don’t underestimate your world, even in the small FACTS way to weed out the bad personal power to advocate things that you do. Number actors and find a good ex- for green causes 61 million: perience, which will bene- Put Your Money to Work of people who volunteered fit you and the cause you True environmental heroes So you really, really don’t in the United States last seek to bolster. come from all walks of have the time? Or maybe year. That’s about 26% of life. Take inspiration from you are volunteering al- the country’s total popula- Take Action in a Day or heroes such as Rosa Hilda ready and see clearly that tion! in an Hour! Keep an eye Ramos, the 63-year old there is no point in dying out for short-term volun- grandmother who took on rich? Then consider offer- 20 million: Number teer opportunities. It only the power companies to ing some funds toward of people who celebrated takes a moment to donate protect the wetlands; or good green causes. To se- the first Earth Day in 1978 your old eyeglasses or start from Brower Youth Award lect where your money a guerilla garden. If you winner Q'Orianka Kilcher, goes, we suggest using the 1 billion: Number of live in a major metropoli- who, at the tender age of same techniques mentioned people who celebrated tan area, you can check the 15, shed light upon the fact above for choosing an or- Earth Day in 2007. calendar at One Brick com- that 800,000 barrels of ganization with which to mitment-free volunteering toxic wastewater were be- spend your time. 2.4 billion: Number and r.s.v.p. to spend a day ing dumped into a Peruvian Spread the Word You did of hours teenagers in the for a good cause. Or look Amazonian river basin. it! You love the feeling of U.S. volunteer per year. for events that need hoards Apply the wisdom of tradi- giving back! It would be a of volunteers to make them tion, like Jesus Leon San- terrible shame not to share happen, such as the West 100,000: Miles of wa- tos, who uses ancient agri- everything you learned in Coast Green Conference. culture systems to turn terways restored by volun- your quest to find the per- teers for National River You can often get access to drought lands into fertile fect volunteering match for Cleanup events great events as a benefit of grounds, or take a modern yourself. But you don’t since 1991. volunteering your time. approach like TreeHugger necessarily want to go all Champion Your Cause founder Graham Hill. evangelical on your 2,000,000: Pounds of Have you got what it takes Wherever you find inspira- friends. What to do? tion, know that you can trash removed from those to embrace a leadership Spread the word where waterways.

“It's easy to make a buck. It's a lot tougher to 1: Number of Texas De- make a difference.” ~Tom Brokaw partment of Transportation engineers required to in- spire local businesses to “It is one of the most beautiful compensations adopt a stretch of highway to keep clean. of life, that no man can sincerely try to help an- other without helping himself.” 90,000: Number of vol- Ralph Waldo Emerson unteers now involved in the Adopt-A-Highway pro- Sources listed on page 34 gram across the country. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 5

WAYS TO GREEN YOUR PET - Tim Pino, Contributor

If you're going green with mild soap and water, Not only are flea collars around the house, don't but never power wash! It generally ineffective, forget the dog. There are can loosen pollutants that they're also a source of plenty of ways to help can harm your pet. constant toxic exposure for “Green” your pet along your pet and family. A “Try a mild baby with your life. Here are safe, easy homemade flea shampoo intended for some tips to help: Don't get optional stain- repellent: cut 6 lemons in proof treatments on human use instead of a half, boil in a quart of wa- couches, carpets and car ter, steep a few hours, then pet product.” Choose pet food without upholstery--they're loaded strain the solution into a ______the chemical preservatives with perfluorochemicals. spray bottle. Sprits your BHA, BHT and ethoxy- pet's fur, taking care not to quin, vary cats' diets to spray near the eyes. Don't Avoid nonstick pans. An These days, you can buy limit their exposure to mer- spray anything in your overheated nonstick pan everything from hemp cury in seafood, and pet’s face; apply spray to can kill pet birds, and it dog Frisbees to organic choose organic or free- the hand and then rub it on gives off chemicals that catnip to biodegradable range ingredients rather the fur. than "by-products." may be bad for other pets pooper scoopers, and the and people too. Try cast eco-friendly pet product

iron instead. Try a mild baby shampoo industry is expected to hit Use a reverse osmosis, fau- intended for human use nearly $1 billion in sales cet-mounted, or pitcher instead of a pet product. Care for your lawn without by next year. filter to remove contami- Just like human products, using insecticides, which nants before filling your pet grooming product may cause nervous system You can make your pet pet's water bowl. manufacturers aren't re- damage in pets that walk green without using a quired to test their groom- on the treated lawn, eat the ing products for safety--but paintbrush. Throw the Replace older foam pet grass, or breathe in the unlike human products, planet a bone by thinking bedding, and either replace chemicals they're not even required to before buying and using or reupholster furniture that list ingredients on labels. natural products has exposed or crumbling foam where flame retar- Use kitty litter made of dants are found. plant sources like wheat or recycled newspaper. Clay- based kitty litter is strip Vacuum often with a mined, causing extreme HEPA-filter vacuum, and environmental damage dur- take off your shoes at the ing extraction. “There are over 66 door to minimize your pets' million pet cats in the exposure to toxic chemi- United States; approxi- cals in house dust. Get biodegradable, com- postable doo-bags for when mately 35 percent are you go on walks with your kept exclusively in- If you suspect your deck pooch--or just reuse bags doors.” was made with arsenic- like plastic newspaper treated wood, treat it with a wrappers. sealant every six months and don't let pets play or sleep underneath it. Wash Sources listed on page 34 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 6

New to “Going Green”? Here Are Some Small Steps You Can Take to Start - Kathleen Harris, Contributor

Responding as an individ- to heat hot water. the laundry. a laptop which will use about half the energy ual to environmental issues Use a water-filter pitcher When you do laundry, of a desktop PC. Look can seem overwhelming. or an in-sink faucet wash full loads and use for models with the What can I as one person filter and drink tap wa- cold water. federal government’s do? But if we each take ter instead of buying small steps to save energy, Regularly clean the lint “Energy Star” rating. water in plastic bottles. filter on your clothes the combined savings can When shopping, look for Use biodegradable and dryer – a dirty lint fil- make a difference – with- paper products made plant-based dishwash- ter means the dryer has out making a big difference from recycled paper, ing powder. to use more energy to in our lifestyles! fruits and vegetables dry your clothes. Small steps to consider: Use a programmable ther- that were grown lo- mostat to lower the Eat less red meat and help cally, and clothes made Shorten the time you spend temperature in your reduce the amount of from organic cotton or in the shower – try for house if nobody is at grain and water that bamboo fibers. five minutes instead of home during the day. goes into meat produc- Bring your own reusable the usual ten or fifteen. (A change of just 2 tion. (7+ pounds of Shut the water off while degrees can make a grain and 3,360 gallons bags to the store when you you brush your teeth. difference in terms of of water are needed to shop. Insert faucet aerators and carbon dioxide emis- produce one pound of sions!) beef!) high efficiency show- Sources erheads that use less Consider wearing your If you are purchasing a Cronstrom, Kendell. “Going Green.“ water and reduce the clothes more than once new computer consider Real Simple, March 2008, pp. 255 – 261. amount of energy used before you put them in

Save Trees – Cut Down on Junk Mail! Kathleen Harris, Contributor

How much of the junk mail the side bar “opt-out” of having pre for new landfills, help save the environment and reduce your that you get at home goes “Telemarketing and Tele- approved credit offers sent right into the recycling phone Services.” garbage collection bills and to you, notify the three ma- taxes.” --Mother Earth News bin? How many trees could we save if we all cut Click on “National Do Not jor credit bureaus that you down on junk mail? If you Call Registry.” don’t want your personal would like to make a start information shared for pro- toward saving trees by re- Scroll down to the ducing the amount of junk motional purposes and take “Consumer Alerts” section mail that shows up in your yourself off direct mail at the bottom of the page mailbox, visit the Federal marketing lists for five Sources Trade Commission’s web- and click on “Unsolicited ftc.gov. 09 Oct. 2008. Federal Trade site at www.ftc.gov and years. Commission. 10 Oct. 2008. . follow these links: “You can make a difference. Email: Where to Go to Click on the “Consumer By cutting back on the dmachoice.org. 2008. Direct Marketing Protection” bar Put your Just Say No” Using this amount of junk mail you Association Consumer Website. 10 Oct. cursor over the words in website you will be able to receive you reduce the need 2008. . Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 7

Are you a “Star”? - Kathleen Harris and Kathye Quick, Contributors

If every American house- washer and clothes washer Information about new Take the hold serviced their heating purchased in America this homes that are, according and cooling systems, year were ENERGY STAR to the guidelines, at least ENERGY STAR changed their air filters, qualified, we would save 15% more energy efficient inspected their ducts for $650 million in annual en- than homes built to the Pledge leaks, and programmed ergy costs while preventing 2004 International Resi- their thermostat for energy 4.5 billion pounds of dential Code and include savings while they’re away greenhouse gases, equiva- other energy-saving fea- To do my part to save en- or asleep, we would save lent to the emissions of tures that typically make ergy and combat global more than $14 billion in 350,000 cars. them 20–30% more effi- warming I will: annual energy costs while cient than standard homes. Replace at least one preventing 160 billion The US Environmental light in my home with an pounds of greenhouse Protection Agency (EPA) A search tool allows you to ENERGY STAR qualified gases, equivalent to the and the US Department of find builders in your com- one emissions of 14 million Energy have been working munity that construct En- cars. together since 1992 to help ergy Star homes and tips consumers identify energy for applying the Energy If every American house- efficient products. Prod- Star approach to Buildings hold added insulation to ucts that have earned the and Plants where we live, their attic, we would save Energy Star have met the work, worship and go to nearly $1.5 billion in an- strict energy rating effi- school. This part of the nual energy costs and pre- cient guidelines developed website provides strategies, vent nearly 25 billion by these two agencies. tools, and links to expert pounds of greenhouse Product guidelines are in help, training programs and Set or program my gases, equivalent to the place for major appliances, networks of business peo- thermostat to save energy emissions of 2 million cars. office equipment, lighting, ple who are successfully while asleep or away from home home electronics, and using energy efficiency If every home office prod- more. The EPA also gives best practices. Have heating and cool- uct purchased in America stars to new homes and Ecosmart 23W (90W) ing equipment tuned-up by this year were ENERGY commercial/industrial Dimmable Compact a professional buildings. If you use these STAR qualified, we would Fluorescent Bulbs that Change air filters save $200 million in an- energy efficient products provide as much light as a nual energy costs while you can do your part to 90watt bulb and can save Seal leaks and repair preventing almost 3 billion reduce greenhouse gas $10.00. This new dimma- any holes in the duct sys- pounds of greenhouse emissions – and also save ble CFL is the only one tem gases, equivalent to the money on your utility bills! compatible with current Seal the home’s outer emissions of 250,000 cars. dimmer switches. walls, ceilings, doors and The Energy Star website floors with caulk, spray If each desktop and moni- provides: foam or weather striping tor in American homes was Information about Products set to sleep when not in Add insulation to the in more than 50 categories attic use, we would save $1 bil- that have earned the En- lion in annual energy costs ergy Star rating. Choose ENERGY while preventing more than STAR qualified equipment 15 billion pounds of green- Home Improvement rec- for the home office house gases, equivalent to ommendations for reducing Sources Choose Energy Star quali- the emissions of 1 million energy bills and making your home more energy ftc.gov. 09 Oct. 2008. Federal Trade fied equipment for kitchen cars. Commission. 10 Oct. 2008. . and laundry If every refrigerator, dish- Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 8

Recycle your compact fluorescent light bulbs - Kathye Quick, Contributor

While compact fluorescent but those plans are not fi- Recycle your CFLs at light bulbs are a proven nal, and across most of the these Home Depots in I am only one, but still I way to save energy, im- country, recycling the and around Somerset am one. I cannot do County. proper disposal of the bulbs has been inconven- everything, but still I bulbs creates a hazard, be- ient at best. Industry pro- Bridgewater Rt. 202 can do something,” cause they contain small fessionals estimate that the —Helen Keller amounts of mercury. recycling rate is around 2 736 Rt. 202 South

percent. 908-252-0101

Recycling them just got easier. Home Depot’s program, Bridgewater Rt. 28 which will accept any 400 Promenade Blvd. maker’s bulbs, will bring 732-469-5883 Home Depot, the nation’s relatively convenient recy- second-largest retailer an- cling within reach of most nounced that will take households. It is esti- Watchung back old compact fluores- mated that 75 percent of 1515 Rt. 22 cents in all 1,973 of its the nation’s homes are 908-222-7700 stores in the United States, within 10 miles of a Home creating the nation’s most Depot. widespread recycling pro- Raritan gram for the bulbs. 244 Highway 202 Flemington Until now, consumers had 908-782-2577 to seek out local hazardous “Everyone thinks of waste programs or smaller South Plainfield changing the world, but retail chains willing to col- no one thinks of lect the bulbs for recycling 3100 Hamilton Blvd. changing himself.” The Environmental Protec- 732-752-5900 tion Agency has been look- — Leo Tolstoy ing into putting bulb drop- off boxes at post offices, Source - Home Depot Website Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 9

Energy tax credits - Kathye Quick, Contributor The recently passed Emer- Below is a summary of ber 31, 2010. The amount first calendar quarter after the gency Economic Stabiliza- many of the tax credits of the credit depends on the quarter in which the total tion Act of 2008 (P.L. 110- available to consumers. fuel economy, the weight of number of qualified plug-in 343) included, extended Please see the ENERGY the vehicle, and whether the electric drive vehicles sold in and/or amended many con- STAR®'s Federal Tax Cred- tax credit has been or is be- the U.S. exceeds 250,000. sumer tax incentives origi- its for Energy Efficiency for ing phased out. Hybrid vehi- nally introduced in the En- complete details. cles that use less gasoline ergy Policy Act of 2005 than the average vehicle of (EPACT). The bill also in- Home Energy Efficiency Improvement Tax Credits similar weight and that meet cluded tax incentives for an emissions standard qual- businesses, utilities, and Consumers who purchase and install specific products, ify for the credit. There is a government. For a complete similar credit for alternative summary of the tax incen- such as energy-efficient win- dows, insulation, doors, fuel, diesel, and fuel-cell tives included in the bill, vehicles. read the summary of Energy roofs, and heating and cool- Tax Incentives in The ing equipment in the home This tax credit will be

Emergency Economic Sta- can receive a tax credit of phased out for each manu- bilization Act of 2008. up to $500 for improve- facturer once that company Source: ENERGYSTAR.gov ments "placed in service" has sold 60,000 eligible vehi- ** The IRS will determine final tax About Tax Credits starting January 1, 2009 cles. At that point, the tax credit amounts. A tax credit is generally through December 31, credit for each company’s ______more valuable than an 2009. The ENERGY vehicles will be gradually equivalent tax deduction STAR® website has a com- reduced over the course of Special Offers and Re- because a tax credit reduces plete summary of energy another year. Read the IRS's bates from ENERGY tax dollar-for-dollar, while a efficiency tax credits avail- Summary of the Credit for STAR Partners deduction only removes a able to consumers. Qualified Hybrid Vehicles To encourage customers to percentage of the tax that is for information on the buy energy efficient prod- owed. Consumers can item- Residential Renewable ucts, ENERGY STAR part- Energy Tax Credits status of specific vehicle ize purchases on their fed- ners occasionally sponsor Consumers who install solar eligibility. eral income tax form, which special offers, such as sales electric systems can receive If individuals and businesses will lower the total amount tax exemptions or credits, or a 30% tax credit for systems buy more than one vehicle, of tax they owe the govern- rebates on qualified prod- placed in service from Janu- they are eligible to receive a ment. ucts. ary 1, 2006 through Decem- tax credit for each. If a tax- Fuel-efficient vehicles and ber 31, 2016; the previous exempt organization buys energy-efficient appliances tax credit cap of $2,000 no such a vehicle, the retailer is The New Jersey Office of and products provide many longer applies. In addition, also eligible to receive an- Clean Energy is offering re- benefits such as better gas consumers who install small other credit. Companies that bates on Central Air Condi- mileage – meaning lower wind systems can receive a buy heavy-duty hybrid tioning and Electric Air gasoline costs, fewer emis- tax credit up to $4,000. trucks are also eligible for a Source Heat Pumps based on sions, lower energy bills, Geothermal heat pumps larger tax credit. Energy Efficient Ratios increased indoor comfort, also qualify for tax credits (SEER and EER)– see web- and reduced air pollution. Consumers who purchase site for specifics. up to $2,000. plug-in electric drive vehi- In addition to federal tax Automobile Tax Credits cles can also receive a tax Several manufactures – incentives, some consumers Individuals and businesses credit. The credit for pas- Jenn-Air, KitchenAid - GE will also be eligible for utility who buy or lease a new hy- senger vehicles and light – Asko Appliances and or state rebates, as well as brid gas-electric car or truck trucks ranges from $2,500 state tax incentives for en- are eligible for an income to $7,500 based on the tax Amana – offer rebates on ergy-efficient homes, vehi- tax credit for vehicles code formula. specific appliance models. cles and equipment. Each “placed in service” after state’s energy office web site Taxpayers may claim the full Source—Energy Star website January 1, 2006 and pur- amount of the allowable may have more information chased on or before Decem- on state tax information. credit up to the end of the Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 10

The Pros and Cons of Hybrid Cars - Yumiko Mishima, Contributor

When gasoline was inex- the Toyota Prius and which means that when pensive, gas mileage was- Honda Insight (not cur- you brake, coast or slow n’t much of a factor in de- rently in production, but a down, some of the kinetic ciding which vehicle to replacement is coming in energy from forward mo- buy, but now fuel effi- 2009), where every aspect tion is captured and con- ciency is a major consid- of the car is designed for verted into electricity to eration for most people. high mileage and is avail- recharge the batteries, in- The most surprising aspect Hybrid vehicles get higher able only in hybrid form. stead of being lost as heat of actually driving a hybrid mileage than equivalent These cars will give you as in normal brakes. Of might be a relatively low- conventional vehicles but the highest gas mileage of course, you still have regu- tech feature: the engine in real world conditions, any passenger vehicle. Ex- lar disc and/or drum fric- shuts-off instead of idling how much higher? Are ceptional mileage (60+ tion brakes to bring your so when you come to a red hybrids worth the extra mpg) can be achieved by hybrid safely to a complete light, it sounds as if your cost over gas engine cars? modifying your driving stop, although you may car has stalled. At low What about diesels – don’t habits to suit the strengths find that you replace your speeds, the Toyota Prius’ they get great mileage? of the hybrid powertrain by brake pads less often. engine can remain off as you glide silently forward Aren’t hybrids better for driving at moderate speeds, the environment regard- coasting, accelerating gen- (or backwards) on battery less? Let’s look at some tly, minimal braking, etc. Another high-tech feature power alone. Pedestrians on hybrids is the CVT – beware of this stealth basic facts about hybrid vehicles. continuously variable mode! Because no gas is The other kind of hybrid transmission. This is a consumed in electric-only vehicle is a regular car or type of automatic transmis- mode (therefore zero emis- What makes a vehicle a SUV that is modified to sion with a wide variety of sions), the next step for hybrid? Hybrids have a have some hybrid capabil- ratios available, instead of hybrids may be “plug in” combination of power ity, either to increase fuel a limited number of prede- hybrids that are capable of plants – a conventional efficiency or to add power fined stepped gears such as running on its electric mo- gasoline engine AND an or both. The hybrid ver- in a typical 5-speed trans- tor with only an occasional electric motor running off a sion of any vehicle will mission, which has five assist from the gas engine. series of rechargeable bat- cost more than the gasoline forward and one reverse Such a powerful electric teries. Hybrids are not all- version because of the ad- ratio to match engine speed motor would be charged by electric vehicles such as ditional hybrid compo- with wheel speed, engaged plugging into a standard GM’s infamous EV1, golf nents, which also add either manually or auto- wall outlet. It would be carts and your kids’ Power weight and complexity. matically. ideal for short trips under 20 miles, either as a local Wheels. Hybrids are gaso- Some are “light or mild line-powered cars which hybrids” which means that commuter or errand vehi- get an occasional assist their gas mileage is only The large number of possi- cle. No “plug-in” hybrid from electric motors to slightly better than their ble ratios increases effi- vehicles are commercially boost mileage and lower gas-only versions. There ciency (thereby improving offered yet, but there are emissions. The batteries are even large SUVs, such gas mileage and lowering vendors who offer conver- that power the electric mo- as the GMC Yukon that emissions) by allowing the sion kits for the Prius. engine to run at an optimal tor are recharged by the gas come in a hybrid version Experts predict that in ten constant RPM over a range engine, so there is no need that gets about 20 mpg years all cars will be hy- of vehicle speeds. It is also to plug into an outlet. which is good for its size, brids as this technology quieter, smoother and, with but still below average. becomes refined, improved fewer moving parts, less and costs drop with wide- There are basically two expensive to maintain. spread application. Other types of hybrid vehicles Hybrid vehicles feature More and more conven- experts say that this is a available now. There are some neat technology such tional cars are now offer a transitional technology and purpose- built cars, such as as “regenerative braking” CVT option. the future will be in hydro- Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 11

The Pros and Cons of Hybrid Cars - continued A side-by-side comparison

PROS CONS Better gas mileage, some- Higher purchase cost times spectacularly so with changes in driving Batteries expensive to re- place Lower/cleaner emissions Gasoline-electric hybrid cars contain the following parts: by up to 90% Must go to dealer to main- Gasoline engine - The hybrid car has a gasoline engine much tain/repair like the one you will find on most cars. However, the engine High-torque electric mo- on a hybrid is smaller and uses advanced technologies to re- tors give great pickup at duce emissions and increase efficiency. low speeds/from standstill Added weight and com- plexity Fuel tank - The fuel tank in a hybrid is the energy storage de-

Possible tax credits from vice for the gasoline engine. Gasoline has a much higher en- federal and state Is gas mileage high enough ergy density than batteries do. For example, it takes about to offset the increased price 1,000 pounds of batteries to store as much energy as 1 gallon government (depends on for the hybrid version? many factors) (7 pounds) of gasoline.

Electric motor - The electric motor on a hybrid car is very Actual mileage is driver Possible discounts on EZ- dependent sophisticated. Advanced electronics allow it to act as a motor Pass tolls as well as a generator. For example, when it needs to, it can

draw energy from the batteries to accelerate the car. But acting Possible waiting list or pre- as a generator, it can slow the car down and return energy to Allowed to use certain miums for desirable mod- the batteries. HOV lanes els Generator - The generator is similar to an electric motor, but it acts only to produce electrical power. It is used mostly on “Cool” factor May just be a passing fad series hybrids (see below).

Promotion of newer tech- Non-hybrid high mileage Batteries - The batteries in a hybrid car are the energy storage nology choices exist such as small device for the electric motor. Unlike the gasoline in the fuel economy cars and diesels tank, which can only power the gasoline engine, the electric Extra long warranties motor on a hybrid car can put energy into the batteries as well as draw energy from them. (Toyota Prius drive train Other alternatives available and battery warranty is 10 such as carpooling, public Transmission - The transmission on a hybrid car performs years/100,00 miles) transportation, working the same basic function as the transmission on a conventional from home, walking, bicy- car. Some hybrids, like the Honda Insight, have conventional cling and motor scooters Increasing number of transmissions. Others, like the Toyota Prius, have radically choices including luxury, different ones. sport, SUVs and pickups Source: http://auto.howstuffworks.com/hybrid-car2.htm Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 12

Can’t Get A Hybrid Just yet? - Dale Artfitch, Contributor

Some Automotive Tips Avoid excess idling. Idling more, so roll them up to save gas can burn up to a gallon of and use the air. deposit control standards fuel per hour, developed by four auto-

motive companies, in- Proper tire inflation is Remove junk from the Avoid using rooftop car- cluding General Motors. important for driving safety riers when possible. trunk. Added weight in and will extend the life of About a quarter of each your vehicle affects fuel TOP TIER gasoline re- your tires and there will be gallon of gas is used to economy, so take unnec- tailers include: Chevron, some fuel savings. overcome the wind resis- essary items out of your Shell and Texaco. tance. If a rooftop carrier is trunk. necessary, try to use an Don't accelerate up hill. aerodynamic carrier to re- Build up speed before an duce wind resistance.

incline, and then main- Go the speed limit and tain it on the way up. use cruise control. Speed Coast on the way down limits are calculated for for additional fuel econ- Avoid excess weight in maximum safety – They omy. your vehicle. Every 100 will also give you maxi- pounds could reduce mile- mum fuel mileage. You age by 1-2% take the un- can get up to 20% better Fill up when it's cool Don't top off gas necessary items from your mileage doing 55mph than and before holidays. When buying gas, stop 70mph and using your trunk. Cooler temperatures in when the pump shuts off cruise control. automatically the early morning or late Check and replace clogged air filters. Keep it tuned. Keeping evening create less va- Clogged filters can reduce your vehicle properly tuned por. Also, getting a fill fuel mileage by up to 10%. and maintained will in- up three days before a Sources: crease fuel mileage and holiday will help you http:// Make sure gas caps are help increase the life of the save on the per-gallon vehicle. www.goodyeartires.com/ tightened and in place af- price at the pump. kyt/tireTips/ ter fueling. (About 147 million gallons of gas evaporates each year from Use the correct fuel http:// cars without gas caps) grade. Use the fuel www.goodwrench.com/ grade recommended by Tips/FuelEfficiency.jsp Avoid quick or fast starts your vehicle manufac- and hard stopping; these Open windows at slow turer. In addition, TOP can reduce mileage by up speeds. Use A/C on TIER Detergent Gaso- to 33%.Following and us- highways. Around ing the manufacturers rec- line is even better for ommended grade oil for town , turn your air con- your vehicle. It is a class your vehicle and changing ditioning off and roll of gasoline with en- the oil at recommended down the windows. On hanced detergency, that intervals will help extend the highway, open win- exceed detergent require- engine life and improve dows create drag at fuel mileage. ments imposed by the speeds of 40 mph or EPA. It meets voluntary

Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 13

The Walking School Bus - Claudia Shaughnessy, Contributor

A walking bus is a group • Reduce traffic conges- Have a plan for dealing route with meeting points, of schoolchildren who, tion, pollution and speed with disruptive students. a timetable and a schedule chaperoned by two adults near schools. of trained volunteers. (a "Driver" leads and a "Conductor" follows) walk • Share valuable time Plan how to cross streets to school, in much the with local community lead- depending on the number For more information visit: same way a school bus ers, parents and children of children and the type of www.walkingschoolbus.org would drive them to street. Avoid busy, high ______school. Like a traditional speed or multi-lane roads. WALKING SCHOOL bus, walking buses have a Think about how to cross, fixed route with designated BUS GUIDELINES FOR such as two by two or four "bus stops" and "pick up ORGANIZERS across. Give children exit- times" in which they pick ing the street room to enter the sidewalk area. up children. Map the route the walking

The concept of the walking bus will take. Choose the bus was invented in 1998 safest route with the few- Wear bright colors and use by Hertfordshire County est and safest streets to retroreflective materials. Council and was first used cross and pick places Walk leaders and children at Wheatfields Junior where there are sidewalks can wear fluorescent vests. School in St Albans, or paths separated from In bad weather, visibility is United Kingdom in 1998 [ traffic if possible. Pay even more important. “A variation on the walk- close attention to traffic Walking Buses have re- ing school bus is a bicycle signs and signals related to mained popular in the train where a group of pedestrians. Children are not miniature United Kingdom and have children and adult leaders adults. They often act be- recently gained a level of ride their bikes together to fore thinking. They have popularity elsewhere in school .” The Centers for Disease one-third narrower side vi- Europe, North America Control and Prevention sion and can’t judge speed. and New Zealand. Propo- recommend 1 adult for Since they are shorter than nents of walking buses say every 6 children. One adult adults, they can’t see over that its aims are to: can walk with more kids cars and bushes.

• Encourage physical who are over 10 years of activity by teaching chil- age. For 4-6 year olds, 1 dren the skills to walk adult for every 3 children is Remember that adults are safely, how to identify safe advised. role models for children’s behaviors. routes to school, and the benefits of walking Have parents walk with For more information • Raise concern for the their children and/or sign The rewards can be great. visit: environment consent forms. Walking school buses help create lifelong safety skills. • Raise awareness of how walkable a community Go over basic safety rules is and where improvements with the children. A Walking School Bus can can be made be as informal as two fami-

lies taking turns walking • Reduce crime and take Make sure the students their children to school or back neighborhoods for know you are in charge. people on foot as structured as a planned Source—Walkingschoolbus.org Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 14

What is “Green Cleaning”? How do I go Green? - Linda Levitt Contributor

Green cleaning involves Before we get into the Fragrances may also trig- the use of products that are cleaning products them- ger asthma, allergies, head- ‘eco-safe,’ and the least toxic to people, selves, there are several aches and eye irritation. ‘environmentally friendly’ animals and our planet. It suggestions for developing Many ingredients become are also meaningless, ac- is possible to find or make environmentally friendly dangerous when combined, cording to Consumers Re- these products that are kitchens: and you often won’t find ports’ Eco-labels website.” If you would prefer to buy healthier, often cheaper • use less water and don’t any warning labels to alert and yet will still do a good you to this phenomenon. alternatives to the traditional let the water run while you cleaning & laundry products, job of cleaning and disin- do dishes, brush your teeth fecting. If you wish to buy According to a 2000 World look for environmentally or walk away to get a cup friendly ingredients that also green products, you should from another room Health Organization report, be looking for ones that are antibacterial soap is help- perform. Substitute non-toxic, biodegradable, • use cloth napkins and ing to promote the growth ~ grain alcohol for butyl phosphate-free, contain no towels instead of paper of resistant bacteria. Chlo- cellosolve as a solvent dye, chlorine or hypochlo- • buy your items in bulk – rine bleach, common in ~ coconut or other plant oils rite, use recycled packag- this uses much less packag- cleaning and laundry sup- rather than petroleum in de- ing, bulk packaging, natu- ing plies, is highly caustic, can tergents ral fragrances and which • choose organic products, be fatal if swallowed, and have full disclosure or la- ~ plant oils, eucalyptus, if possible can wreck havoc in the beling of both “active” and world of nature after it runs rosemary or sage rather than “inert” ingredients. For • buy local products and down your drain. It also triclosan as disinfectants. additional information, produce; this reduces trans- must never be mixed with please visit: portation costs and uses any ammonia product as less fuel and supports your this will result in a highly NJ Environmental Federa- local farms and businesses toxic gas. tion, Peggi Sturmfels, 732- • use reusable storage con- 280-8898, psturm- tainers, plates, cups, etc. The first step to greening [email protected] • don’t leave your refrig- your home is, weather per- Dierdre Imus Environ- erator door open for long mitting, open your win- mental Center for Pediatric dows and let the fresh air • thaw food before you Oncology, 201-336-8071, cook to reduce your cook- in! Replace artificial air www.dienviro.com ing time fresheners with fresh flow-

ers. If you’d like to choose Center for the New Most detergents [dish & greener alternative to your American Dream, laundry] are made from traditional cleaners, air www.newdream.org/ petroleum, a nonrenewable fresheners and the like, be cleanschools/safelist.php resource. Other ingredi- a savvy consumer: “Just ents are not easily biode- because a product says it’s ______Environmental Choice gradable and are harmful to natural doesn’t mean it’s Program, wildlife after they go down nontoxic,” according to the your drain. Fragrances in Going GREEN is easier www.environmentalchoice. CEO of Seventh Genera- our cleaning supplies and than you think – and the com tion, a producer of environ- Leadership Somerset 2008 fabric softeners often con- tain chemicals that have mental friendly household Go-Green E-zine is here to NJ Green Schools Pro- been linked to cancer and products. “Because no help you make choices that gram, 732-528-0016, may impair women’s re- standards exist, claims are right for you and fit into www.globallearning.org productive systems. such as ‘nontoxic,’ your lifestyle. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 15

Green Cleaning in your Kitchen and Bath - Linda Levitt, Contributor

Replace antibacterial soap drains, try using a “snake,” You can hide wood Air fresheners: can trigger with thorough hand- a plumbing tool that can scratches by rubbing it allergies and asthma. An washing with plain soap & bring much [or all] of the with the meat of a walnut. easy solution – when the warm water. Wash about 2 clog to the surface. If you To remove water stains on weather co-operates is to minutes. still need to clear your wood furniture, dab white open the window and venti- drains, try eco-friendly so- toothpaste onto the stain. late! Use an open box of White vinegar will kill bac- lutions that use enzymes Allow it to dry and gently baking soda to remove odors teria, mold and viruses and rather than caustic chemi- buff with a soft cloth. – place these boxes in clos- can be used on kitchen sur- cals to dissolve your ob- ets, in your refrigerator, or faces and even toilet seats! structions. Check out Fabric softener: instead of any enclosed spaces where Earth Friendly and Natu- a commercial fabric sof- the air is stale. Other com- To kill the dreaded food- rally Yours products. And, tener, add ¼ cup baking mon ingredients that can borne pathogens [E coli, for the future, consider soda to your wash cycle. A help get rid of room odors salmonella], use very hot, metal or plastic drain ¼ cup white vinegar will are: ~a mixture of baking soapy water to thoroughly screens that will prevent also soften and eliminate soda, hot water and lemon wash all utensils, cutting hair and other obstacles fabric cling. juice mixed and poured into boards, and any surfaces from getting in your drain. a spray bottle and sprayed into the air; ~a bowl of vine- on which you placed raw According to Grist, an en- gar; ~a bowl of charcoal or meat or eggs. While you Oven surfaces can be vironmental news website, kitty litter; ~lighting a match can use wooden cutting cleaned with a paste of wa- less toxic store products for a few seconds; ~burning boards for fruit, vegetables ter & baking or washing are manufactured by a candle; ~a small dish of and cooked products, only soda; let stand overnight Ecover [laundry & dish vanilla extract. If you want use non-porous cutting and scrub while using soaps], Seventh Generation to be fancy – put the baking boards for raw meat and gloves. EnviroSafety has a [laundry & dish soaps], soda into a decorative bowl. poultry. plant-based multi-purpose Aubrey Organics [all pur- cleaner. To make it easier Or you can use cloves, sticks pose household cleaners], To scrub sinks, tubs, on you to keep your oven of cinnamon, whole allspice countertops use a paste of clean, line the oven floor Vermont Soapworks [all or similar spices, simmered baking soda & water. This with aluminum foil and purpose household clean- in a pot of water for 1-2 should remove dirt rings wipe oven walls after each ers] and Naturally Yours hours. and many stains. If this use. [dishwasher detergent]. doesn’t work on a particu- If you want to use commer- lar stain, try a paste of Toilets can be cleaned us- cial products, try cedar washing soda and water; ing non-chlorine scouring blocks, sachets of dried but use gloves. powders or you may try flowers or herbs and prod- AFM SafeChoice or ucts which are scented with To clean windows, fill a Ecover products for the essential plant oils, such as spray bottle with water & toilet. lemon, verbena or lavender. either ¼ C white vinegar or Avoid products that lists an 1 tablespoon lemon juice. Furniture polish: can use unspecified “fragrance” - 3 parts light mineral oil to these could easily be syn- Most drain, oven & toilet one part olive oil and a thetic chemicals, which you bowl cleaners are ex- drop of lemon juice. Or try are trying to avoid. tremely corrosive and can a small amount of olive or irritate eyes and skin and lemon oil and beeswax. cause or worsen breathing Or: dip a cloth in cool tea problems. To green-clean and rub onto furniture. Sources listed on page 34 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 16

Green Laundry Tips - Linda Levitt Contributor

~ Pre-soak soiled items in ~ Chocolate & coffee: stores]; let stand for 1 hour, Wash in soapy water as hot warm water w/ ½ C wash- soak in cold water, rub w/ then wash as fabric will stand ing soda for 30 min. Rub soap & mild borax solution ~ Ink: for ballpoint pen, ~ Mildew: wash with soiled areas w/ liquid soap & rinse. Wash in water as sponge with rubbing alco- soap & water. Rinse well, ~ To remove stains, soak hot as the fabric can stand hol, rub with soap, rinse & dry in sun. If spot remains, spot in cool water immedi- ~ Fruit & wine: soak in wash. For felt-tip, rub with apply lemon juice, rub with ately; sponge away as cold water for 30 minutes. soap, rinse & wash salt and dry in sun. Wash much as possible. Repeat Rub soap into remaining ~ Lipstick: rub with cold ~ Perspiration: rub with if necessary. *air-dry since stain & wash in water as cream or shortening to dis- solution of vinegar and heat can set a stain hot as the fabric can stand. solve color, rinse with so- lemon juice in water ~ Blood: pour hydrogen Bleach with lemon juice lution of washing soda in peroxide directly on stain and sunlight, if needed warm water to remove and rinse in cold water ~ Grass: rub with glyc- grease erin [available in drug-

In a Nutshell: The Best Homemade Cleaning Product Ingredients to Keep on Hand (you probably already have them in your house)

Baking soda: mildly abra- overnight and clean off. To use it on counters and cabi- salt, squeezing lemon juice sive, naturally deodorizing. remove odors on carpets, nets – and there is no need over the salt, letting the On a damp sponge it will sprinkle with baking soda, to rinse! With difficult mixture sit for several clean your tub and sinks, let it sit for a few minutes stains, use very warm wa- hours and then wiping remove marks on painted and vacuum. ter and let it sit for a while clean. You can make a walls. If you have stub- To clear your drains, make before scrubbing. Unfortu- good furniture polish with born stains on sinks or a mixture of equal parts nately, this may not work 1 cup of oil [olive or min- countertops, make a paste baking soda and cider vine- on the most stubborn of eral] and ½ cup of lemon and let it sit on the stain for gar, pour over the clogged stains – they may call for juice. Clean your grout by 15 minutes before scrub- drain, and follow with hot commercial products. To sprinkling it liberally with bing. On a dirty [cold] water. Do not use this im- clean toilets, use vinegar lemon juice, letting it sit oven, spray with water and mediately after using a full strength; add one cup for 30 minutes and scrub- spread a mix of ¾ cup bak- commercial drain cleaner to your laundry rinse cycle bing. Lemon juice re- ing soda, ¼ cup salt and ¼ as it could cause a danger- to soften; full strength moves perspiration and cup water over the interior; ous chemical interaction. vinegar will clean and pol- other stains from clothing. ish your kitchen stainless do be careful not to let the mixture clog any openings. steel appliances; and ½ cup Let sit for a few hours to Vinegar: again, with bak- vinegar mixed with one ing soda, will keep drains gallon hot water will clean from clogging. It also is a your washable floors. wonderful spray cleaner, dissolving soap scum and grease Lemons: use them to de- odorize your garbage dis- Make a mixture of equal posals. Rust stains in your

parts vinegar and water in a bathroom can be cleaned . spray bottle and you can by sprinkling the stain with Sources listed on page 34 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 17

Cleaning Products—continued Sources listed on page 34

Borax [sodium borate]: Bleach: combine ¾ cup You can use spray bottles kills mold and bacteria. bleach with one gallon of White, non-gel tooth- for many of your cleaning Used as an alternative to water. This can be used for paste: mild abrasive that supplies. Add essential bleach, it deodorizes, re- mold and mildew on grout cleans silver oils or herbs to many of moves stains, and boosts and tile. Be careful with your cleansers – this will the cleaning power of soap. fabrics and never, ever add a pleasant fragrance to combine bleach & ammo- your products. Ammonia: a wonderful nia – this can release cleaner for windows, highly toxic gases. chrome, tile and mirrors Homemade cleaning prod- when you combine ammo- Washing soda [acetic ucts tend to be cheaper, Scouring pad / soft rags usually work as well as nia [one tablespoon] with acid]: cleans clothing, sof- and/or sponges / spray rubbing alcohol [1 cup] tens water, cuts grease and commercial products and bottles are vastly superior for our and water [1 cup]. To disinfects. When com- avoid streaking, don’t bined with soap, can health, the health of our clean in direct sunlight. If greatly increase its clean- Club soda: great stain pets and to our ecosystem. you set a bowl of ammonia ing power. remover Be sure you clearly label and carefully store all your in an oven overnight, most products so they cannot be of the dirt can be wiped Liquid castile Hints: buy your ingredi- mistaken for something away. Steel wool and el- soap: gentle ents in bulk, pre-mix, and suitable for eating or drink- bow grease can finish the soap with a label and store your clean- ing! project, if needed. natural ers properly. Salt: an abrasive vegetable base. Eco-friendly cleaning products Did you Know? Consider these eco-facts. are:

- If every household in the (equivalent to 74% of our - The average American U.S. replaced just one box annual Gulf Oil imports), uses 25 barrels of oil each of 48 ounce petroleum- reduce greenhouse gases year. based powder laundry de- by 101 million metric tons - Banning plastic bags tergent with a vegetable of CO2, and save almost could save 37 million based product we could $52 billion at the pump. barrels of oil each year. save 96,000 barrels of oil. - It’s estimated that if US - - Research shows that drivers slowed down a about 40% of Americans little, kept their tires in- have jobs that could be flated to the proper pres- performed at home. If they sure and reduced their driv- -By extending Daylight tele-commuted, they could ing by 5%, US oil con- Saving Time by four weeks annually save 587 million sumption would drop by barrels of oil (roughly from the second Sunday of 1.3 millions barrels a day. March to the first Sunday of November, it is expected -If everyone lowered their Provided by heating temperature 6 de- that 10,000 barrels of oil will be saved each day grees, we’d save the energy through reduced use of equivalent of 570,000 power by businesses during barrels of oil every day. daylight hours. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 18

Solar Energy for the Home Owner? - Lynn Slifer, Contributor

As energy prices reach lev- side of your house will solar system exceeds the els that cause us all to look help provide added shade amount used in the home, for ways to cut back on in the summer, but won’t the excess electricity is utility bills, solar power block the desired heat from actually sold back to the Interested in hearing more? deserves another chance the sun in the winter. Insu- electric company. This with the average home- lating curtains and blinds practice helps to offset There are several great web owner. Solar technologies are another passive tool to electric bills accrued dur- sites that provide detailed in- have advanced quite a bit “manage” the heat from the ing months when the solar formation on the use of solar over the past decade, and sun. Most home improve- supply can’t keep up with power by homeowners. now receive even more ment stores now carry win- the demands of the home. These include interest from homeowners dow films, which can be There are many options for www.eere.energy.gov/solar, and organizations looking easily applied (and re- using solar in the home, www.njcleanenergy.com/ to capitalize on alternative moved) to windows on the including; residential, and energy. And prices have sunny side of your home, www.otherpower.com. You become more reasonable, further reducing the heat Solar roofing panels, can also contact your local making it possible for more effect in the summer and which can be used for solar utility to ask about solar homeowners than ever to helping to cut air condi- water heating or generating power. As the technology harness the power of the tioning costs. electricity used in the improves and storage capa- sun. home. Solar electricity is avail- bilities increase, solar energy Solar shingles, which Solar Energy is the crea- able to the homeowner in will become an ever more tion of energy from the many forms. While solar many homeowners find more attractive than solar viable alternative to the aver- sun’s light. It involves a technologies are generally age homeowner. photovoltaic process more cost effective when panels, can be installed whereby light causes an installed during new con- when re-roofing the home. electrical charge to flow struction, homeowners who As with roofing panels, into material. Solar panels plan to stay in their homes they are used to generate store that charge, releasing for 5 years or more may electricity for use in the it when needed. Solar still benefit from installing home. heating has been used for solar electric. While the Solar outdoor lighting, centuries to heat dwellings, upfront cost for installing which requires no wiring but the use of solar elec- solar is 3 to 5 times the and has absolutely no cost tricity is relatively new. cost of a standard HV/AC to run. While light from Passive solar heating in- system, rebates are offered outdoor solar lights is gen- volves simple things like through state and federal erally not as bright as the siting a new home to take governments to help offset standard low voltage wired advantage of sunlight to those expenses. type, the cost and effort to heat in the winter, and us- Experts recommend main- install is actually less and ing deciduous trees to taining a connection with the benefits can be seen shade the house from the the local utility for those immediately. suns’ heat in summer. times when solar panels do Solar swimming pool and These simple measures can not provide the levels of spa heaters, which absorb actually reduce utility bills. electricity required in the sunlight to warm the water. A few well placed decidu- home. When the electricity Sources listed on page 34 ous trees near the sunny supplied by a homeowner’s

Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 19

Say ‘I Do’ to a Greener Wedding Michelle Luff , Contributor

A wedding can be one of the choose pesticide-free or- proceeds to fulfill wishes Moissanite can also be most expensive and nerve- ganic blooms, or flower- for terminal breast cancer manufactured in a lab, a wracking events of a per- less bouquets. Have brides- patients. If you’re not go- completely conflict-free son’s lifetime, however, there maids carry a battery pow- ing to reuse that brides- and green process! You are alternatives! One way to ered tea light candle in a maid dress, The Glass Slip- may want to avoid dia- help ease the tension on both lantern for a winter wed- per Project is another char- monds entirely, if so, look- ones wallet and nerves is to ding or possibly Spanish or ity that accepts donated ing into vintage gemstones host a green wedding, or at Chinese-style fans or de- dresses and provides them or recycle a favorite gem- least to make an attempt to sign your own for a sum- to teenagers who cannot stone you already have. incorporate some environ- mer wedding. Make your afford to purchase a prom Many jeweler’s will recy- mentally-friendly options into tables at the reception a bit dress. cle and refine gold to make the many details of that very greener by using potted a new custom rings (Green special day. flowers, plants, herbs, or A current hot topic in the Weddings: Are Your Rings

possibly even small trees wedding community is Earth-Friendly and Conflict- Starting with wedding which your guests can take centered on diamonds Free? theknot.com, 2008). invitations, there are many home and replant. Bamboo and diamond trading, ways to integrate greener is a wonderful natural ele- often called, conflict dia- For your honeymoon, options without sacrificing ment to add to wedding monds. Many of the dia- consider a volunteer trip, style or color. Consider décor and is one of the monds currently for sale in rather than a luxurious re- using recycled paper or most sustainable natural the United States have sort retreat. Celebrate your alternative fibers such as materials on the planet. been mined in war zones in special occasion by hemp or bamboo; there are Use bamboo as a center- Angola and Sierra Leone, “paying it forward” and also options featuring eco- piece or pass out mini and the sales from these giving to a cause in need of friendly vegetable- or soy- lucky bamboo to your diamonds have funded re- assistance. Consider how based inks for printing in- guests as wedding favors. bel groups in these coun- meaningful it could be to vitations. Should alterna- Another favor idea is to tries (Conflict Diamonds, spend time with your new tive printing options not be make a donation in your UN Sanctions and War, spouse volunteering and of specific interest, there guests names to an organi- www.un.org, March 2001). making the world a better are ways to green up the zation that plants trees, How does one avoid pur- place. Check out the web- invitation process simply such as AmericanFor- chasing a conflict dia- site www.i-to-i.com for by sending out fewer paper ests.org. (theknot.com, mond? The first step to more information or to mailings for each wedding Green Weddings, Organic take in purchasing a con- plan your trip. even celebration; choose to and Earth-Friendly Recep- flict-free diamond is to ask (theknot.com, Green Wed- email invites to the bache- tion Ideas, 2008). your jeweler for a dings: Volunteer Honey- lor/bachelorette party or ‘Certificate of Origin’ moons, 2008). create a wedding website Your wedding day would which ensures that the dia- to announce all events for not be complete without mond is truly conflict-free your guests. (theknot.com, that beautiful gown, how- (Conflict Diamonds, 2001) Green Weddings: Invita- ever, there are green alter- tion Ideas and Tips, 2008). natives for your wardrobe. When it comes to wed- Purchase a second-hand Other options to ensure ding flowers, purchase in gown, you’ll get a great your wedding jewelry does discounted price for a dress not void human rights is to season worn just once. This will simply to avoid diamonds flowers, reduce the energy needed altogether or seek out dia- support to create a new gown in mond substitutes. A popu- local labor, materials, and ship- lar stone which is made nurseries ping. Making Memories is from a rare and naturally and a charity that sells donated occurring substance is flower gowns and in turn donates moissanite. shops, Sources listed on page 34 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 20

Discovering & Locating Green Toys - Connie Richardson, contributor

With the continuous news products, Toys ‘R’ Us and ducks for bath. Choose European toys - they informing us all of the re- Wal-Mart have announced Look for fleece dolls and ban phthalates in toys, formal- calls of millions of toys for that they will not sell baby stuffed animals made from dehyde, polybrominated flame safety issues ranging from products that contain phtha- post-consumer recycled ma- retardants and many other lead paint to crafts that lates. terials. chemicals. turned toxic when swal- Look for information on toy Here are some tips & rec- Look for toys made from lowed, most consumers recalls. The website for the ommendations in choosing unfinished wood but pay have began to research and U.S. Consumer Product Safety safe toys for children attention at the glue that question the how, what and Commission (CPSC) has infor- from:“A Bunch of Green’s” may contain formaldehyde. where when choosing a toy mation on infant toy recall. for their children. The re- website How to Choose Any solid wood toy is pref- search has shown that 80% Safe Toys “http:// erable to one made with Avoid toxic items and materi- of the toys are manufac- abunchof- pressed woods such as ply- als that could cause poisoning. tured in China. Parents are greens.blogspot.com/2008/ wood and particleboard, Look for paint sets, crayons searching for toys that are 03/it-can-be-quite-hard-to- which are formed with glues and markers that are labeled made from natural, non- get-safe-toys.html that give off toxic fumes. nontoxic. toxic materials that are safe You can often see the layers Use the Healthytoys.org data- for their children. It can be quite hard to get of pressed wood when look- base. The Consumer Action safe toys for your children ing at the edges of toys and Guide to Toxic Chemicals in At this time twenty states these days. puzzle pieces. However, to Toys is a database with results have passed legislation to There are the concerns of ensure that solid wood came of 1,200 toys and children ban four substances from - lead in the toy's paint, from responsibly managed products and data from over toys: lead, phthalates, - phthalates in the plastic forests, look for the Forest 3,000 individual samples of Bisphenol A, and cadmium. rubber toys (banned in Stewardship Council (FSC) different product components. Congress is also in the proc- European toys), certification, which prohib- The toys are rated for 5 ele- ess of strengthening the - PVC from the hard plastic its clear-cutting and the use ments that represent the Consumer Product Safety toys of old-growth and endan- chemicals of concern: lead, Act to ban lead and phta- and so on. The scare with gered tree species. mercury, cadmium, chlorine lates, and to mandate that the toys made in China Look for wooden toys fin- (PVC), and arsenic. There are the presence of toxins be awakened many parents ished with natural oils such lists with worse and best toys disclosed. who started to look for safer as linseed, walnut, and bees- and children products. The alternatives. One should be wax which are safest. database does not have all the With the increasing number pretty concerned when buy- Look for solar-powered toys tested but if you do not of consumers who are ing toys for his/her kids electronic toys or those that find what you are looking for choosing to pay more for whether made of wood or run off of rechargeable bat- you can request new toys and toys that are made with or- plastic. Some think that if teries, juiced up with a solar products to be tested. ganic cotton, sustainable the toys are made from charger. Because recharge- Opt for organic cotton (grown wood & natural, nontoxic wood they are safe and this able contain heavy metals-- without pesticides or synthetic materials they are demon- is probably because they are such as nickel, cadmium, fertilizers), unbleached cotton strating influential with re- free of phthalates. But they lithium and lead--be sure to (free of dioxin-producing chlo- tailers. may not be free of lead and other chemicals used to glue treat them as hazardous rine), hemp and wool colored The consumers are demand- the pieces; so not all waste at the end of their with low-impact, colorfast ing changes on how toy wooden toys are safe. lifespan. dyes. Wool is naturally fire- resistant--yet another reason to products are produced and Recommendations: Choose very carefully the most toy companies are lis- toys that are for mouthing/ choose it. tening. Wal-Mart, Target, Avoid toys made of plastic sucking period of your and Sears have pledged to that uses PVC (identified as child. Better get some 3-4 If you're ever in doubt about a eliminate polyvinyl chloride number 3 or vinyl). more expensive safe toys toy's safety, discard it. (PVC) from their store- Avoid any plastic rubber than 10 unsafe toys. They brand children’s and baby toys like those fishes or do not need that many. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 21

Green Toys—continued

General guidelines to keep Toy Safety and Testing that their products are free http://www.peacetoys.com/ of phthalates, PVC and in mind when toy-shopping: Green Toys products are an online store, offers a wide tested by nationally recog- Bisphenol A selection of nontoxic, environ- Toys made of fabric should nized, independent, third- Lego - PVC & phthalate- mentally responsible games, be labeled as flame resistant party labs (located, yes, in free ABS plastic. toys, puzzles and art supplies. Chicco - the majority is or flame retardant. the USA.) They contain no made from plastic, PVC traceable amounts of Phtha- Thinkbutton was founded, in Stuffed toys should be free. lates or BPA. They are also 2000, on a philosophy that washable. TinyLove - PVC free. designed without any exter- inspires children to strive for Painted toys should be cov- nal coatings, eliminating the Lamaze baby toys - PVC free. more than just being smart. ered with lead-free paint. fear of lead paint. Our vision is to challenge

Art materials should say Nuno Organic offers a vari- young minds to embrace the Our products pass a pleth- ety of wooden toys, organic nontoxic. extraordinary. ora of tests, including: cotton dolls and teddy bears http://www.thinkbutton.com/ Crayons and paints should • Consumer Products for young children. Tod- environment_toys.asp say ASTM D-4236 on the Safety Standard Specifica- dlers can practice motor package, which means that tion, ASTM F963 skills and size relationships 1888 Toys - We care greatly they've been evaluated by • California Prop. 65 re- with stacking boxes made of about young generation, there- the American Society for strictions on lead & cad- birch wood in colorful wa- ter-based stains - fore educational toys and Testing and Materials. mium (www.nunoorganic.com , learning toys for babies, tod- One highly recommended • FDA regulations for 914-762-6159). dlers and preschool children, food contact online environmental toy presented on our site are of the California regulations pro- Plasmacar - Counteract the highest quality, have proven supplier is: hibiting phthalates in toys rage for battery power with developmental value, safe and Green Toys, Inc. (http:// Voluntary testing for no ride-on cars that use bodily fun to play with! http:// www.greentoys.com/ BPA (Bisphenol-A). momentum to propel them- www.1888toys.com/ green.html) an online store selves, such as The Plasma that is based in California Car ($69.96; states which all their prod- Here are more websites who sell safe environmental toys: www.plasmacar.com, 877- ucts are 100% made in the 289-0730). Another alterna- USA. Plan toys - mostly wooden; tive is the Flying Turtle they comply with E.U. stan- ($68.95;

dards. www.sensoryedge.com, 800- Haba - comply with E.U. 734-8019). standards. Nova Natural Toys & Crafts Nuno Organics - has stack- - sells a variety of natural ing boxes from birch wood, playthings. Your child can treated with non-toxic water build elaborate tracks for Per their advertisement: based stains. marbles with the Castle “Our toys are truly local creations. Every step in the Nova Natural Toys and Labyrinth Marble Run, process, from milk con- Craft - sells playthings made made of SmartWood- tainer recycling to toy pro- from local white pine, fin- certified birch wood blocks duction to final assembly, ished with polemerized lin- ($38.90; occurs in California. Our seed oil. www.novanatural.com - raw materials and toys aren't Melissa and Doug - mostly 877-668-2111). wooden; uses water-based shipped from overseas, Peace Toys - Educational paint. which saves a lot of energy Children’s Toys from Hugg- Sassy - majority are made Sources listed on page 34 and reduces greenhouse A-Planet and Peacetoys - gasses.” from plastic but they claim Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 22

Green Toys—continued as to cultivate and express Nunoorganic.com our thoughts, ideas as we Plasmacar.com shared our toys and play Sensoryedge.com years old. together with friends in Novanatural.com In closing, getting back to which form our ability to basics is the key. All those work in a team setting. Peacetoys.com toys we and our grandpar- I can guarantee it will do Thinkbutton.com ents use to play with will the same for your children! 1888toys.com Converting to green toys be the answer for the ques- Abunchof- has its definite advan- tion “What is safe for my greens.blogspot.com/2008/03 tages: children?” The answer lies /it-can-be-quite-hard-to-get- in just the basics. The safe-toys.html (A Bunch of -Educational development building blocks, wooden Green - http:// -Durable rocking horse, spinning abunchof- Sources greens.blogspot.com/) -Added safety for your tops, Lego sets, building & flying kites, rag dolls, hand child Green Toys, Inc. Forest Stewardship Council puppets, puzzles, story Plantoys.com -Stimulates the imagination books, old fashion teddy Healthytoys.org Habatoys.com -Enhances independent bears, I could go on and U.S. Consumer Product Safety Nunoorganic.com Commission thinking on, but the reality is all of Novanatural.com -Environmental safe for these toys have one com- Melissaanddoug.com our planet mon bond, which is they Sassybaby.com gave us hours of fun with Lego.com -Most of the toys listed challenging our minds and Chiccousa.com with their websites are letting our imagination and Tinylove.com geared to the ages of less creativity develop as well Learningcurve.com/lamaze than one year to about 10

Special Thanks to the following companies:

Marla Howard, Xerox Senior Solution Executive - for donating the business cards

Green Toys - for their donation of four Cookware & Dining sets

Red Apple School Supply - for donating 100 recycled pencils

Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 23

ECO-FRIENDLY SCHOOL SUPPLIES — Connie Richardson, Contributor

You would be surprise how offer a variety of other To access Red Apple School easy it is to green your chil- school and office products, Supply products log onto Then there are the old fash- dren’s school supplies. Nu- such as binder filler paper, http:// ion ways that still do the merous retailers have or are copy paper, notebooks, sta- www.redapplesupply.com trick, such as covering in the process of producing tionery, index cards, scis- school books with paper recycled pens, rulers, pen- sors, crayons, water base, bags or newspapers, reus- cils, notebooks, crayons, dry erase- and permanent able lunchboxes instead of copy paper, binders, and markers, all of which are brown paper bags, switch even lunch boxes. Some made from Earth-friendly from vinyl backpacks to 100 examples of local stores materials. In just two years, percent post consumer recy- that offer eco-friendly prod- Green Apple has become a cled rubber knapsacks. ucts are Wal-Mart, Staples, national leader in offering a There are so many ways to

Office Max, and Target just comprehensive range of green your child’s school to mention a few. Then “green” school and office supplies as well as a cost there are online stores, you products. Other Online Green Of- savings and your help in benefit from buying in bulk fice and School Supply saving our planet for our which is savings to your We sell their products children’s future. Come wallet. If you don’t have through retail stores Suppliers: aboard for together we can the need for buying in bulk throughout the U.S. and make a difference! consider partnering with Canada and also offer a GreenLine Paper Company neighbors, school groups or School Supply Pack pro- sells only recycled and tree- school districts with com- gram in which schools and free papers, 100% recycled, bining orders for even larger 30% PCW, colorful twin- parent organizations order savings. prepackaged supplies cus- pocket portfolios http:// tom-made based on their greenlinepaper.com/ index.php One online vendor who has respective supply lists. a variety of earth friendly Treecyle.com - 100% recy- products is Red Apple School Supply, Inc. cled 30-100% PCW filler paper, post-its, and file fold- Jeff Haines, President of ers; 10-30% PCW pocket Red Apple School Supply, Inc. writes: organizers; and up to 50% PCW plastic binders, from “Red Apple School Supply, Treecycle.com. Inc. which is located in Murray, Utah, introduced a The Recycled Products Co- Sources unique brand of school sup- Red Apple School Supply is operative - http:// GreenLine Paper Company ply products in 2006 under the exclusive US distributor the Green Apple Earth- for tree-free banana paper www.recycledproducts.org/ Treecylce.com friendly School Supply notebooks and stationery The Recycled Products Co- brand name. Since then, we products from TNF Ecopa- operative have grown our product line pers of Costa Rica. Red Red Apple School Supply to include pencils, pens, Apple School Supply is a highlighters, rulers, pencil member of the Utah Chap- boxes, 3-ring binders and ter of the Better Business lunch boxes all made from Bureau and the National recycled, reclaimed and re- Association of College cyclable materials. In addi- Stores.” tion to our branded line, we Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 24

Green and Gorgeous - Vilma Ramirez, Contributor

Do you ever stop to think What to Avoid: should know that natural 5. Time To Explore: In about the routine you go There are many harmful and organic are not inter- your local beauty store, it is a good idea to look around through every morning to chemical ingredients that changeable words. and find an eco-friendly or get ready, feel pretty or just are used in everyday hair “Organic” refers to a “green” section. Many to be presentable? The ma- and skin care products that method of farming in stores that focus on healthy jority of women’s daily people are not aware of. which plants and botanicals living have sections filled assortment of products in- Here is a list of just a few: are grown on land that is clude some combination free of chemicals, fertiliz- with products that are good of: shampoo, conditioner, Mineral oil/petrolatum/ ers and pesticides. for your skin and the envi- hair product, face wash, petroleum: Many products “Natural” means the final ronment. Their products are shower gel, shaving cream, have petroleum based in- product was made from mainly made with natural moisturizer, deodorant, and gredients that clog the botanical sources without ingredients and recycled or many different kinds of skin‘s pores and enlarge additives or preservatives. recyclable packaging. These makeup depending on per- them. It can cause acne, stores also focus on prod- saggy skin and also long 2. Choose natural, or- ucts that are animal friendly, sonal taste. ganic products: When term dry skin. meaning their products were shopping for environmen- never tested on animals. The fact is, that most Sodium Lauryl Sulfate tally friendly beauty prod- beauty products contain (SLS): Most lathering ucts, choose natural, or- 6. Make your own prod- chemicals that can be dam- products contain this very ganic products that have ucts: You would be amazed aging to our bodies and the harmful ingredient. not been tested on animals, at all the products you could make by just stepping into environment. When you and come from companies Parabens: There are four your kitchen. Finding reci- put chemicals on your skin, committed to the environ- different types- Methylpa- pes for your own home- it can be far worse than raben, Propylparaben, Bu- ment. ingesting them, because made beauty products is a typaraben, and Ethylpara- 3. Read the labels: Never breeze if you have access to they are actually being ab- ben. These equally harmful sorbed directly into your assume that a “natural” or the Internet. By just going ingredients are used to in- “organic” label means it is to your favorite search en- blood stream and there is crease the shelf life of no protection against the true. Be smart, read the la- gine, you can type in products even though they bels, and know what are the “homemade cosmetics” for toxin. are known to be extremely best ingredients for you. hundreds of pages of reci- toxic. There are studies that Most of the time the ingre- pes and instructions. If you try to figure out show that parabens and dients in shampoos, mois- As you can see, there are what is in your favorite certain preservatives have turizers and products sound many options and a decision lotion, moisturizer or face been linked to metabolic, anything but natural! Learn between going green and wash, it can leave you with developmental, hormonal what you are actually put- saving green. By going green an unpleasant feeling be- and neurological disorders ting on your skin. you are not only helping the cause you don’t understand as well as various cancers. what the ingredient list 4. Know What To Avoid: environment, but you are really refers to. If you were Fragrance: The word The common ingredients also helping yourself. Most to go online and research “fragrance” means a syn- that everyone should steer organic products are eco- some of the ingredients on thetic fragrance was made clear of are parabens, so- friendly and will help the back of your favorite in test tubes from any of dium lauryl sulphate, petro- Mother Nature. So next products, you may proba- 200 synthetic chemicals. leum and fragrance. These time you go shopping for bly stop yourself from pur- These fragrances have been chemicals are the most com- beauty products, think of what you are actually put- chasing them again. You linked to breathing difficul- mon cause of skin irritation ting on your skin. can find many articles that ties and allergies. and sensitivity. When you read the list of ingredients caution about how chemi- Take Action: remember that the top third cals are thought to cause 1. Become familiar with make up 90-95 percent of allergies, hormone imbal- the “green language:” the formula and the bottom ance, even cancer. Natural vs. Organic. You three only make up 1-3 %. Sources listed on page 34 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 25

Healthy hair—naturally—Sandra Seeley, and Kathye Quick, contributor s

Hair Care Tips setting. base of your hair. . You should wash your The following are some Don't leave the blow dryer Always brush/comb with a hair as often as you feel basic hair care tips that you in one spot for more than a downwards stroke. necessary to keep it clean, can use to improve the few seconds, keep it mov- but a general rule is for Avoid using plastic oily hair you should wash health and look of your ing and at a good distance brushes/combs which cre- hair. away from your hair. it every day or every other ate static electricity day and for dry hair only General To speed up the drying Shampooing and wash it 2-3 times a week. A healthy lifestyle will process, pat your hair dry mean healthier hair for with a towel and let the Conditioning Try rotating the shampoo and conditioner periodi- you. Excessive stress, remaining moisture in your Buy shampoos & condi- cally, your hair responds smoking, not exercising hair dry naturally. tioners that match your hair differently to different and not eating nutritiously type, trial and error is the Gently use your fingers or products. are not healthy for your a pick to untangle any best way to find out what hair. knots while your hair is specific hair product is best Use a conditioner after Get enough sleep. drying. for your hair. shampooing, it'll moistur- ize your hair, give it extra Shower with warm water, Hair Products (Gel, Combing/Brushing protection, add shine, re- hot water can dry and/or mouse, hair spray...) Use a brush whose bristles duce static, and makes it irritate the scalp Avoid using hair styling are made from natural ani- easier to untangle. products with alcohol mal hairs, it is softer and It is important to wash your Use a leave in conditioner, which dries out hair. more flexible which means hair, shampooing removes it'll hydrate and protect less damage will be done to dirt, dead skin cells, hair Avoid putting hair styling your hair. A leave in condi- your hair. oils, any hair products you products directly on your tioner on your hair is the may put into your hair. scalp, if you put it on your Hair is most fragile when it equivalent of moisturizer scalp you'll clog the pores is wet so avoid brushing or When shampooing, rinse on your face. on your head. combing when it's wet, or your hair out before apply- When conditioning your else it will cause breakage, ing any shampoo to re- Swimming hair, try to spread condi- wait until your hair is al- move any dust, dirt, and tioner evenly through out Before entering a pool, wet most completely dry before any other foreign items, your hair and leave it in for your hair so your hair will brushing it. then apply the shampoo a couple of minutes before soak up the initial water onto your scalp and mas- Use brushes/combs with rinsing out your hair. instead of the chlorinated sage it gently with your water. widely spaced bristles/teeth and smooth tips. Sharp finger tips and work your Put the conditioner in at When swimming where a tooth combs can damage way outwards. After you about an inch away from cap to protect your hair your hair, cause split ends, are done make sure that the scalp, the roots of your from chlorinated water, if and scratch your scalp. you thoroughly rinse out hair contain the most oils you choose not to wear a your hair to remove any and usually don't need the cap, make sure you sham- To keep your brushes and shampoo residue that may extra conditioning. combs clean, wash them poo and condition your be left. Shampoo residue Be gentle when shampoo- hair right after you are weekly using soap or may dry your scalp/hair shampoo. ing and conditioning, don't done swimming. and or attract dirt. It is rec- use excessive force rubbing Drying Comb your hair to remove ommended that you only your hair, remember hair is any tangles before brushing lather once to avoid drying most vulnerable when wet. Hot air can it. your hair out, if you have be damag- Begin by combing your oily hair, lathering again ing to your may stimulate your oil hair so hair gently at the ends to get any tangles out and glands to create even more when using oil than normal. a hair dryer use the cool work your way up to the Source—natural hair guide Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 26

Go Natural— natural hair care recipes—Sandra Seeley and Kathye Quick, contributors

Natural Hair Spray dark, cool place in a sealed cups of boiled water for 20 Tropical Isle Conditioner bottle. minutes. Remove the tea Ingredients Ingredients bags and discard. Add the For Dry Hair 1 avocado 1/2 orange soap flakes to the tea and Coconut milk Ingredients let stand until the soap sof- 1/2 lemon 6 chamomile tea bags tens. Stir in glycerin until Directions

4 tablespoons pure soap well blended. Keep in a Peel and pit avocado. Mash Directions flakes dark, cool place in a sealed avocado and slowly add Chop fruit into small 1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin bottle. coconut milk until smooth and the consistency of hair pieces and place in a pot Directions For More Body with 2 cups water. Boil conditioner. Work through Steep the teabags in 1 1/2 Ingredients hair to ends. Rinse after 15 until reduced by half. Cool, cups of boiled water for 20 strain, and place in a spray 2 1/2 teaspoons dried minutes and shampoo. minutes. Remove the tea horsetail bottle. Store in the refrig- bags and discard. Add the erator or add one once rub- soap flakes to the tea and Directions Lavendar Rosemary Hot bing alcohol to store at let stand until the soap sof- Steep horsetail in boiled Oil Treatment room temperature for up to water for 20 minutes. tens. Stir in glycerin until Ingredients two weeks. Add more wa- well blended. Keep in a Shampoo hair and rinse ter to reduce stickiness, if dark, cool place in a sealed thoroughly. Poor horsetail 1/2 cup soybean oil desired bottle. rinse through hair and 5 drops oil of rosemary leave in for ten minutes. 10 drops oil of lavender For Normal Hair Rinse with clear water Natural Hair Gel Directions Ingredients Ingredients Conditioners 6 chamomile tea bags Mix all ingredients well. 1/2 to 1 teaspoon unfla- 4 tablespoons pure soap Avocado Conditioner Warm slightly and apply vored gelatin flakes Ingredients the mixture to damp hair. Directions 1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin 1 small jar of mayonnaise Wrap hair in plastic wrap and apply a hot towel for Thoroughly dissolve gela- Directions 1/2 avocado 20 minutes. Shampoo. tin in 1 cup warm water. Steep the teabags in 1 1/2 Directions Keep refrigerated in sealed cups of boiled water for 20 Peel avocado and remove container. minutes. Remove the tea pit. Mix all ingredients in a bags and discard. Add the medium-sized bowl with

Shampoo soap flakes to the tea and your hands until it's a con- let stand until the soap sof- sistent green color. Smooth Chamomile Shampoo tens. Stir in glycerin until into hair being careful to Ingredients well blended. Keep in a work it to the ends. Use 6 chamomile tea bags dark, cool place in a sealed shower cap or plastic wrap 4 tablespoons pure soap bottle. to seal body heat in. Leave flakes on hair for 20 minutes. For

1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin deeper conditioning wrap a Rinses Directions hot, damp towel around Steep the teabags in 1 1/2 For Oily Hair your head over the plastic, or use a hair dryer set to a cups of boiled water for 20 Ingredients low to medium heat set- Source—http:// minutes. Remove the tea 6 chamomile tea bags www.longlocks.com/hair- ting. bags and discard. Add the 4 tablespoons pure soap care-recipes-cookbook.htm soap flakes to the tea and flakes let stand until the soap sof- 1 1/2 tablespoons glycerin tens. Stir in glycerin until Directions well blended. Keep in a Steep the teabags in 1 1/2 Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 27

What Every Homeowner Should Know About Green Building— Javier Vasquez, contributor

Use compact fluorescent Air and A Healthy House rating will give you impor- light bulbs - These bulbs are tant information about the more expensive to buy at $5 costs and savings associated each, but will save between with different renovation $35 - $70 each. You can’t options. It’ the smart way to beat that kind of invest- save money and spend your ment! renovation dollars wisely. Turn off lights and appli- Visit: http:// ances when not in use www.energystar.gov We expect our homes to be a place of safety & security. Green Building means Turn your furnace thermo- stat down or turn your air Buy Energy Efficient Increases in asthma, cancer, making homes that im- conditioning thermostat up Equipment - When you buy allergies & other health prove the health and eco- when they won’t be needed equipment or appliances for problems are sometimes nomic vitality of people for 5 hours or more. A pro- your house, seek energy linked to toxins at our and protect the environ- grammable thermostat can efficient options by looking home. What can you do to for the Energy Star label. ment. It’s about making do this for you automati- make sure the house is cally. Every 1 degree that our homes and workplaces healthy for your family? you turn down your ther- Renewable Energy - Con- healthier, more comfort- Maintain your home w/ air able, more durable, safer mostat for 8 hours saves sider using renewable energy approximately 1% off your where appropriate. Remote quality in mind. Your main- and more affordable heating bills. locations, such as lawn tenance choices will have a large impact on the health Energy Use free heat & light from lights or some outbuildings, Reducing your energy use the sun - Make use of the are good candidates for so- of your house. This is espe- keeps more money in the natural daylight that your lar or wind power. Also, cially important w/ children local economy. It also re- home has available. Open solar domestic hot water or seniors in the home systems are an excellent in- duces pollution which con- curtains & blinds through- Nontoxic cleaners and bath tributes to asthma and many out the house for free light vestment in Michigan. The savings can pay for the sys- products – Here are some other health problems. Fi- and the health benefits of of the biggest sources of nally, energy improvements natural light. Open curtains tem in approximately 8 years, which is a 12% simple toxins we are exposed to in can help lessen the effects & blinds in south and west our homes. Many cleaners of climate change. facing windows for free return on investment. Solar pool heaters pay for them- & beauty & bath products heat, or close them to keep selves in 4 years when com- contain carcinogens & other Reduce your energy bills cooler. pared. health threats. Fortunately, The House Shell - how it’s also one that’s easy to much insulation, & places Energy Resources: fix. Many alternatives are where heat and cooled air DOE Efficiency and Re- available that perform great can leave the house newable Energy Website: and are often less expensive House Systems - heating www.eere.energy.gov too. system, lighting, appliances, New Jersey: http:// Proper ventilation - Make etc. www.epa.gov/cleanrgy/ sure you understand your Occupant Behavior - leaving energy-programs/state-and- home’s ventilation system the TV on when not watch- local/states/nj.html and use it appropriately. It’s ing it. Good investments especially important to ven- http://www.business.gov/ tilate whenever you’re creat- Get a Home Energy Rating Low-cost guides/environment/ ing a lot of moisture -If you’re planning a major Improve the house shell - energy-efficiency/get- (bathing, cooking, etc.) or renovation to the home or Eliminating air leaks in the started using toxic materials (like buying new, consider getting home is crucial for lowering most commercial glues, a Home Energy Rating. This Alliance to Save Energy: energy bills. www.ase.org paints, solvents). Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 28

Green Building—continued

Healthy Air Resources: Carbon monoxide detectors costs hundreds of dollars in Water Resources Carbon monoxide is pro- American Lung Associa- wasted water. To test a toi- tion’s Healthy House pro- let, pour food coloring in Water Saver House: duced by gas burning appli- www.h2ouse.org ances or can enter a house gram the toilet tank, then watch through an attached garage. www.healthhouse.org to see if the colored water Rain Harvesting: moves into the toilet bowl. www.harvesth2o.com At least one detector should EPA’s Indoor Air Quality be placed on every floor pages: www.epa.gov/iaq Water catchment - While Rain Gardens of West that has a finished bedroom. some homes set up cistern’s Michigan: Non-toxic Home Cleaning: Healthy paints and finishes - to store rainwater for all www.raingardens.org www. eartheasy.com/ their needs, you can tackle a Most paints and finishes live_nontoxic_solutions.htm Materials contain VOCs (Volatile Or- simpler version with a rain ganic Compounds) which barrel. Rain barrels are con- are toxic and off-gas Water For Living nected to a gutter down- that .fresh paint smell. Low- spout. They conserve water VOC or No-VOC paints and help preserve the Great and finishes are available Lakes for future genera- from a variety of manufac- tions, help your plants turers, including some of thrive by giving them chlo- the major paint brands. rine-free rainwater, provide These paints are comparably water for carwashing, and priced and healthier for your Clean water is essential for help manage stormwater by putting more water back The materials that we use in home. life, and it’s increasingly rare our home, from furniture to in many parts of into the ground instead of Purify the air with house- into the sewers. When the flooring, from consumables hold plants - Most common the world. The Great Lakes sewers get too full during to construction supplies, all household plants help purify are one of the largest re- heavy rains, a mix of storm- have a life that extends far the air for you, in addition serves of fresh water in the water and wastewater is re- past our use. They start as to adding beauty to your world. It is our responsibil- leased into local waterways raw materials, are manufac- home. These leafy, green ity & a wise investment to before it is treated. Another tured into goods, packaged, plants remove common take care of this precious variation on this is to plant a used by us, and then dis- household toxins like for- resource. Here are a few rain garden, a garden that carded. If we look at where maldehyde, trichloro- ideas to make sure your can absorb and filter large those materials come from, ethylene, benzene and oth- home doesn’t waste our amounts of water, so that and where they go to later, ers. water supply. you can purify rain water as we can make wiser choices that will improve our world. Less carpeting - Carpeting part of your landscape in- can be comfortable, but it’s Low-flow faucets and show- stead of sending it into the a haven for toxins, allergens erheads - A simple 1.5 gal- sewage system. Recycle - Call your local and biological contaminants. lon per minute county or city to find out Also, when you smell that. (gpm) faucet aerator only Dual-flush toilets - Consider about household recycling New carpet smell it’s actu- costs $2, but can save a lot a dual-flush toilet that has options. Your community ally toxins being off-gassed of water. Get a an improved design that may have pickups, drop-off into your air and lungs. Area flushes most waste with sites or other options. Re- showerhead that uses 1.5 rugs provide the same com- only a half-flush, but still use centers are another op- gpm to save water in the fort, but are easier to clean. has a full flush available tion to put clothes, furni- shower. These are easy to Smooth floor alternatives when you want it. These ture, appliances and more install, provide a pleasant like cork provide comfort & models only cost a little into homes that need them shower and typically cost cushioning while staying more than a standard toilet, instead of into the waste $15. durable & easy to clean. but can save around $50 a stream Watch for leaks - A leaky year. pipe, faucet or toilet can

Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 29

Green Building—continued

Site Integration Finally, be sure to create home’ annual water usage. Where do I start Native plants, which are easy-to-use sorting bins to naturally part of New Jersey, make recycling simple for Start with the proper main- require little to no watering, your family. It’s easiest to tenance of your home and fertilizing or pest preven- sort when you toss it, not equipment as specified in tion. They can also attract later. the manuals and instruc- birds and butterflies to your tions provided by your Compost - Composting is a yard. great to keep kitchen, lawn builder. Then tackle the Plant trees - In general, or garden scraps from being A home isn’t a self con- items that are easiest to in- plant deciduous trees to- trash and instead turn it into tained bubble, floating in corporate into your life. For ward the south side of the nutrient rich fertilizer! space. While our homes give some people, this will mean house to provide shading in us shelter from the world adopting small measures, Reduce trash - Even better the summer and evergreens outside, they can also con- such as switching more than recycling is just reduc- to the north to block cold nect us to the wider world lights to compact fluores- ing the amount of trash northern winds in the win- around in wonderful ways. cents. For others, it might your home produces. For ter. In addition, trees pro- Site integration recognizes be a bigger step that fits example, buying food or vide fresh air, beautiful that our homes are part of a with other personal goals, products with less packaging views, shade for sidewalks wider context. What can we such as biking to work once can greatly reduce the or driveways that otherwise do to build upon that con- a week when already plan- amount of trash a home overheat, and in some cases text, now that the home is ning a fitness regime. Re- produces. food. there? member why you want a Buy green when renovating Avoid adding more pave- green home, and decide

When you buy new prod- ment - When rain falls on which steps make the most ucts for your home, watch Transportation Options - standard concrete or asphalt sense to you. Finally, if for items that are local, recy- Where your home is lo- surfaces, it isn’t absorbed you’re planning a remodel, cled, toxin-free, or come cated, and how it is de- into the ground, which is be sure to work with con- from sustainability har- signed affect how you get part of nature’s water filter- tractors who have experi- vested sites. Whether re- places. How many choices ing process. If you need a ence with green building. modeling or just buying new do we have for our trans- hard surface, try permeable sheets, shop for healthier portation that can meet dif- (or porous) paving that still options. ferent needs? Driving a car allow water to pass through. can be They also help avoid some of the erosion problems that Materials Resources convenient, but it can also be expensive and detrimen- can occur downstream of

How to Compost: tal to your health. solid surfaces. www.howtocompost.org Automobile use is also a Site Resources Green Guide - for house- large contributor to global hold products: climate change. Using other Public Transportation Sys- www.thegreenguide.com/ travel options is one of the tems: reports best ways to reduce pollu- www.publictransportation. “Building green has many interpretations, but the goals Green Home Guide - for tion and build community. org/systems include efficient use of land remodeling & construction Some of the options to ex- products: plore include biking, walk- Commute by Bike: and energy, water conserva- www.greenhomeguide.com ing, using public transporta- www.commutebybike.comt tion, improved indoor air tion or carpooling and ride- quality, and resource conser- Travel Matters: sharing. www.travelmatters.org vation, primarily by using recycled materials.” Native landscaping - Lawn Permeable Paving : watering can account for as www.en.wikipedia.org/ www.utahenergy.org much as 10,000 gallons of a wiki/Permeable_paving Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 30

GO GREEN IN YOUR GARDEN FOR THE NEW YEAR—Sandra Seeley. Contributor

With the New Year ap- holding capacity. Every tention compost bins re- • Fatty foods proaching, most gardeners plant loves it! main free of unpleasant • Milk products already have spring on their Make compost and use odors and rodents and can minds. What new plants to compost produce a finished product • Human and pet waste, try, what veggies will do well in 10 weeks. Compost is including litter again, and all things that What can be composted involve warm days , a sun the single-best Meat scraps hat, and a trowel. The New thing we can The first thing to know Creating a compost pile Year is a time for fresh add for creat- about composting is what starts, so it’s a great time to ing healthy, can and can’t be composted. Key ingredients to good and think about changing things living soil. The simple answer is-any speedy compost are: air, up a bit to make your gar- Even better, we can make it plant material that was once moisture, brown den even better for the envi- for free with waste from our alive can be composted: (carbonaceous) material kike homes and yards, keeping a dry leaves, green ronment. If you haven’t • Fallen leaves tried composting, give it a significant amount of waste (nitrogenous) material like whirl. If you haven’t tried out of landfills. Yard waste • Grass and lawn clip- grass clippings or vegetable home-made concoctions for and green food scraps make pings scraps and a little soil or pest and disease control – up a significant percentage manure to stimulate micro- • whip some up in your of curbside waste collected. Hay bial decay. kitchen and see how re- This waste is then taken to • All fruits and vegetables While home composting is warding it can be. Organic landfills that are quickly becoming more popular, a gardening usually refers to reaching capacity. Other • Annual weeds before growing number of cities gardening practices that do yard debris is often moved they seed and municipalities are also not use chemical pesticides. by leaf-blowers into the realizing the benefits of street where it clogs storm • Remains of garden Healthy soil is the founda- plants composting. Many now tion for any organic garden. drains and causes flooding. operate large-scale compost- Feed Composting is a simple, • Woodchips and sawdust ing facilities to help cut the clean and efficient way to down on the growing • Fruit and vegetable amount of material going soil, convert this waste into a peels and scraps not the beautiful top-mulch or soil into landfills. The process is plants additive to stimulate the • Tea bags similar to a home compost- health of plants. When ing system, but on a larger Healthy soil is the essence compost is used in this way • Coffee grounds scale. of creating a growing envi- it saves money and reduces Eggshells ronment that promotes It t takes about three to four the need for applications of chemically free plants. Soil months, a controlled combi- dangerous synthetic fertiliz- Do not compost the fol- has a life of its own, with nation of moisture , air, mi- ers and pest controls. lowing materials: billions of microorganisms, croorganisms and tempera- tures reaching up to 160 all working together to sup- Composting is the natural • Painted or chemically degrees F to turn yard waste port and promote its own process of decomposition treated wood ecosystem. By adding soil of organic materials into a into compost. Some of the food, such as compost and rich and condensed growing • Diseased plants finished compost is sold to medium. It takes place natu- landscaping companies, organic matter, we enrich • Annual weeds that have rally in places where leaves some is the soil, which, in turn, help gone to seed plants thrive. Composting and twigs accumulate but used in is a way to turn organic can occur much more • Roots of perennial sanitary waste into a free garden quickly by using a home- weeds landfills amendment. Compost will made or purchased compost and the • Bones help improve the quality of bin. An effective compost rest is given away the soil, add nutrients, and bin or pile need not be more • Fatty foods improves the soil’s water than one square yard. With to garden- a very small amount of at- • Milk products ers. Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 31

GO GREEN IN YOUR GARDEN FOR THE NEW YEAR—continued

On a smaller scale, starting duce your pile if they have Conserve, retain and use Depending on the types of your own home composting the proper mix of moisture water properly insects you are dealing with, system is pretty easy. You and air. That’s why layering According to the Environ- there are various ways to get can either buy a commercial is important. It is also im- mental Protection Agency, rid of them. One more way composting bin or build one portant that your turn your we waste about half of all is a natural, homemade in- yourself. The choice really compost once a week to the water we use, and a lot secticide that can kill insects depends on how much ma- help mix the ingredients, of that applies to irrigating but is not as harmful as us- terial you have to recycle and balance out the mois- our lawns and gardens. We ing most manufactured in- and how fast your want to ture and oxygen in the pole. tend to over-water and irri- secticides. make finished compost. Do not turn your pile more gate at the wrong times, Freestanding compost piles than every four days, or the wasting much of it to If your want to make your are the simplest system. If bacteria and fungi will not evaporation and runoff. As own natural insecticide for you don’t have a lot of ma- have time to do their jobs. water washes across our both house and garden, all terial and you’re not in a You will notice that the cen- properties, it carries sedi- you need is two tablespoons hurry, this is the one for ter of your pole will heat up- ments and contaminants, of liquid soap and one quart your. Just start piling on the that’s the result of those which can make their way of water. Just mix the little yard debris and food scraps bacteria and fungi working! into watersheds. This leads bit of soap with the water. and let nature do the rest. to more problems, such as You can try to sprinkle the How do I turn the com- mixture in a spray bottle. If Be patient: this form of post? habitat destruction and loss passive composting can take of biodiversity. you use the spray bottle, you The point of turning is to should be sure to spray the up to two years to make Non-Chemical Pest Con- finished compost. get what’s on the outside on plants evenly. If you see the inside, and back again. trol any bugs, aim directly at the A hoop-type composter is The easiest way to do this if Gardeners used to control pests to get the best results. just a piece of plastic with you have a compost bin is pest problems with a can of lots of holes in it. Fill it to dump it out then put it insecticide. Now that we’re Liquid soap with water with waste materials and back in again. If you have a more aware of the dangers should work well, but if you mix, or turn, the contents pile, start at the top with that chemicals can pose to want to use something a every week or two with a your shovel and place your people and the environ- little stronger, look to these pitch fork or shovel. You ingredients in a new pile ment, the focus is on non- great solutions. For this can have finished compost right next to where your old chemical pest control. By natural-based alternative, all in 3 to 4 months. one was. You will notice following a few good gar- you will need is a couple of If you don’t want to pur- that your layers will blend dening practices, pest prob- ingredients you can get at chase a compost bin, you together and the texture of lems can often be pre- any grocery store. can make one out of wire, your pole will become finer vented. The first mode of The list of ingredients is as wood, concrete blocks or ad your ingredients break prevention is to keep your follows: even a plastic garbage can down, when your turn your garden healthy. with holes drilled into it. pile every week. Make Your Own Natural • 1 bulb of garlic While building a compost How do I know when it’s Insecticide • 1 small onion pile, moisten each layer with done? Insects are extremely diffi- • 1 tablespoon cayenne a hose, but don’t saturate it. Finished compost looks like cult to deal with, since they (red) pepper When all the layers are com- rich soil. Properly finished are small and tenacious, and pleted cover the pile with a compost will never burn many love to eat your • 2 table- thin layer of soil to provide your plants. The large in- plants. It is extremely diffi- spoons liq- microbes and keep the pile gredients have broken cult to get rid of insects uid soap moist. down, and it is ready to be without using insecticides, 1 quart wa- How does the pile turn placed in your garden, your but many insecticides can be ter into compost? container plants, or your hazardous to your plants’

There are natural bacteria lawn! health or your own. and fungi that will help re- . Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 32

GO GREEN IN YOUR GARDEN FOR THE NEW YEAR—continued

All you need to do to make bles. You can have trees, without having to redo eve- edible landscaping with this environmentally shrubs, lawn, and plants that rything. fruit-bearing shrubs, herbs friendly insecticide is first, enhance your little corner of You have better things to and vegetables quite easily. finely chop the onion and your world-and you can do in the yard than mow the By doing it you create an the garlic, and them mix have it without a lot of fuss lawn. Reduce the time you organic harvest for your them with the tap water. and bother. spend mowing by planting a kitchen and a beautiful view Add the cayenne pepper Now you can achieve the wild flower meadow. You’ll in your yard. and, after letting the mixture garden you’ve always reduce your consumption of Be proactive, not reactive sit for one hour, mix in the wanted by investing a little fuel and pollution and you’ll soap. Finally, mix well. Stay ahead of any develop- time and applying these have envious neighbors. ing problems. Pay attention When the foam subsides, great tips and techniques. Wild flower meadow at- strain the mixture into your to your plants, keeping the Regardless of what you are tracts butterflies, birds and garden free of weeds and spray bottle. You can store raising –flowers, vegetables, other wildlife. Decide the mixture for one to two leaf debris. And if you do trees, shrubs, or lawns- which flowers you want to see a developing problem, weeks if you keep it refriger- you’re bound to find some- plant. Try to avoid exotic ated be it pest or disease, know thing that will help make plants that need to be trans- the most eco-friendly way to Insecticidal soaps kill insects your garden better. You ported long distances. Your deal with it. by washing away their pro- don’t need to have a huge local nursery can help you tective coating. If you can’t plot of ground to do your choose plants and flowers Organic gardening is not make your own, you can growing. that can survive without defined by what you don’t find these at most home and artificial pesticides or extra do as a gardener. The sim- Choosing native flowering ple answer is that being a garden supply stores. To be plants is a great way to get watering. effective, the soap must green gardener means you started on an organic garden I’m sure that after you take don’t use synthetic fertilizers come in contact with the because they require little your first steps toward an insects. or pesticides on your plants. care, and they have evolved eco-friendly garden you’ll When you garden organi- The best pest control is pre- over time with the ability to realize it’s easier than you cally, you think of your vention. Every gardener grow naturally without the imagined! plants as part of a whole knows, however, that you use of pesticides. Edible landscaping-more system within nature that can’t stop everything. Carve out new garden than a hobby starts in the soil and in- When you find, take care of spaces. Eliminate some of cludes the water supply, it immediately. Removing If you belong to the people that water consuming lawn who desire to have in their people, wildlife and even small infestations keeps by planting a mixed border insects. An organic gar- them from turning into big garden vegetables and fruits or an island bed. A mixed you’ll be interested in creat- dener strives to work in har- problems. Remove affected border can be planted along mony with natural systems foliage and crops. Be sure ing an edible garden. This a fence to add color, charac- kind of garden were edible and to minimize and con- to properly dispose of any- ter and depth, while an is- tinually replenish any re- thing you remove. If you plants are planted together land bed can be any shape with flowers is now being sources the garden con- leave it on the ground, the and centrally situated to sumes. pest may over winter in the referred to as edible land- break up the monotony of a scaping. The idea of edible And while your apartment debris and infest your plants vast stretch of lawn. again next year. landscaping originally comes window box doesn’t have Eco-friendly garden from ancient Egypt where the scale or impact of a Stop and Smell the flowers were combined with country garden, you can still Roses… Looking at a beautiful yard makes us feel good. We are grape arbors and vines. follow the principles of or- …and every other lovely even more delighted when Scenery to sit outside and to ganic gardening to help sus- thing in your garden. we know it’s eco-friendly. It enjoy! tain the earth and maintain It doesn’t take a green may sound like you have to No matter how small your that small cycle of nature thumb to create a garden start form the beginning, garden is and no matte if right outside your window. that blooms delightful flow- but it’s easy to make steps you live in warm or cool SOURCES: New Orleans Food & Farm Network, Home & Garden ers or yields great vegeta- toward an eco-friendly yard regions, you can create an Television, Lawn and Garden, Gar- dening.Tips.Net Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 33

Beyond the Green: Making Sustainable Change - Michelle Luff , Contributor

There are many ways for trend in some countries in and livable wage laws. You we should be making. people and communities which the only jobs avail- can review fair trade com- Some communities now alike to actively get in- able to people is that of panies at: have the technology and volved with the “green” equipment to permit us to movement that is transi- working in a factory or www.fairtradefederation.or factory-like setting, for g/. There is an overwhelm- recycle cardboard, com- tioning our country. Up- pressed cardboard packag- eight to twelve-plus hour ing amount, especially of grading our homes to in- ing, all glass and plastic clude energy-efficient ap- shifts, with a salary of just fair trade coffee products, (numbers 1-7), and metals. pliances; building “green” pennies per day. This struc- on the market that can be In addition to recycling via and even LEED certified ture is in existence due to purchased at your local a recycling center, there are buildings; and using the single driver of the grocery stores here in Som- numerous websites that cleaner, greener, renewable market, price. When a cor- erset County. Some web- have listings of items that energy sources such as poration develops a desired sites where you can pur- people no longer need or clean coal or natural gas product in which the mar- chase fair trade goods are: want, in a sense; this is are some of the ways peo- another version of recy- ple are “greening-up” their ket creates a demand, such www.globalgoodspartners. as shoes, clothing, or hand- org cling. Visit lives. www.craigslist.com or bags, there is a need for www.butterflymama.com, www.freecycle.org to find As Americans, making mass production of that www.worldofgood.com or post any item you de- these changes is extremely product. One of the ways (sponsored by ebay), and sire! important when consider- in which corporations can http://www.onevillagegifts. ing how wasteful we have 1) make profits on their com/. The final way in which we become as a country. How- products and 2) keep the can create a sustainable ever, many of these im- prices of their products In line with purchasing fair community is to simply use provements we are making affordable for the masses is are one-time upgrades; trade items to support liv- less! Making changes to- to employ workers at an once we purchase that new able wages, it is important ward greener, more effi- ‘energy efficient’ refrigera- employment rate below the to support our local com- cient living is important, tor, we never think again national standards. munities and buy locally however, if we throw out about the purchase we just (http://www.livingwagefair made and sold products. To appliances and materials made or many other trade.com/about/econdevth make an effort towards that we already own, just to sustainable living, we must changes we can and should eory.html, Living Wage, purchase a greener and make to our everyday lives. LLC, 2003). each take pride in our small businesses and support possibly cleaner model, we This article will cover four are not being green! Living aspects of going beyond them. The Somerset There are ways in which a green and sustainable life the green to define ways in County Business Partner- we can all attempt to sup- which we can all help to ship (www.scbp.org) is a can be accomplished by create sustainable, positive port livable wage laws for wonderful reference to using the items we have changes to our society. people in other countries. search and find local busi- and utilizing them until The first sure way is to nesses. they are no longer assisting If you’re not familiar with purchase fair trade certified us or doing what we need issues over livable fair goods. If you have ever Another change we can them to do. It’s important wages or fair labor stan- researched companies from make towards living a sus- for us to make the simplest tainable life is to always dards, consider yourself which you purchase prod- change of all and that is to recycle. It is imperative lucky. That means that you ucts, you will see a fair use less; less energy and are (most-likely) earning that everyone deposits cans trade certified statement on resources, including finan- an appropriate, livable and bottles into recycling many of their websites or cial resources, and we will wage. However, there is bins, however that is sim- even on product labels if in and has been an alarming ply the minimum effort we be on our way towards a fact they support fair trade should be making. Some more sustainable life Your own “Green” House Leadership Somerset Class Project Page 34 Contributors’ Sources

Treehugger.com Plantoys.com EnergyStar.gov Habatoys.com Freecycle.org Nunoorganic.com Novanatural.com Sierraclub.typepad.com Melissaanddoug.com Planetdiscovery.com Sassybaby.com Lego.com IRS.gov Chiccousa.com Mother Earth News Tinylove.com Federal Trade Commission website, www.ftc.gov Learningcurve.com/lamaze/ Stefanakos, Victoria Scanlon. “Earth Day, Every Nunoorganic.com Day.” Real Simple, April 2007 Plasmacar.com Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Sensoryedge.com Walktoschool.org Novanatural.com Walkingschoolbus.org Peacetoys.com Thinkbutton.com Home Depot 1888toys.com NJ Environmental Federation & Ehow.com the Green Guide Abunchofgreens.blogspot.com/2008/03/it-can-be- Geocities quite-hard-to-get-safe-toys.html (A Bunch of Green - NJ Environmental Federation http://abunchofgreens.blogspot.com/) LifeScript Connect Network Forest Stewardship Council Seattle & King County Department of Public Health Healthytoys.org Somerset County Public Information Office U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission http://www.goodyeartires.com/kyt/tireTips/ Greenvolunteers.com http://www.goodwrench.com/Tips/FuelEfficiency.jsp Christine Lepisto - Planet Green DOE Efficiency and Renewable Energy Website: ECOVER www.eere.energy.gov auto.howstuffworks.com New Jersey: http://www.epa.gov/cleanrgy/energy- theknot.com, programs/state-and-local/states/nj.html GreenLine Paper Company http://www.business.gov/guides/environment/energy- efficiency/get-started Treecylce.com Alliance to Save Energy: www.ase.org The Recycled Products Cooperative American Lung Association’s Healthy House program Red Apple School Supply www.healthhouse.org www.utahenergy.org EPA’s Indoor Air Quality pages: www.epa.gov/iaq The natural hair guide Non-toxic Home Cleaning: www.longlocks.com/hair-care-recipes-cookbook.htm www. eartheasy.com/live_nontoxic_solutions.htm

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Leadership Somerset 2008 Contributors Dale Artfitch, Bridgewater, NJ Vilma Ramirez, Hillsborough, NJ Assistant Foreman Bilingual Clinician Somerset County Road Division Richard Hall Community Mental health Center [email protected] [email protected]

Kathleen Jones Harris, Denville, NJ Constance Richardson, Flemington, NJ Assistant Director Business Manager Somerset County Library System Somerset County Superintendent of Schools kathleen.harris.net [email protected]

Linda Levitt, Skillman, NJ Sandra Seeley, Flemington, NJ Internship Coordinator Supervisor/Nurse Raritan Valley Community College Matheny Medical and Education Center [email protected] [email protected]

Michelle Luff, Raritan, NJ Claudia Shaughnessey, Hillsborough, NJ Program Administrator Visiting Christian Scientist Nurse New York University, Office of Student Activities Nursing Service for Christian Scientists [email protected] [email protected]

Yumiko Mishima, Hillsorough, NJ Lynn Slifer, Warren, NJ Executive Director B.S. Biology/M.S. Technology Management Jointure for Community Adult Education [email protected] [email protected] Michael Sovak, Dunellen, NJ Tim Pino, Bridgewater, NJ Pricing Analyst Lieutenant National Starch and Chemical Company Somerset County Sheriff’s Office [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

Kathryn Quick, Manville, NJ Javier Vasquez, Bound Brook, NJ Deputy Clerk of the Board AT&T Production Control Somerset County Atlas Data Systems [email protected] [email protected] Leadership Somerset 2008 AWARDS Leadership Somerset 2008 AWARDS