Grow and Make Sustainable Living Blog

Koch Brothers and who funds the Tea Party

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 06:05:58 +0000

The New Yorker published an article last week by contributor Jane Mayer which should be required reading for anyone wanting to understand why capitalism has truly run amok. The Koch brothers run the 2nd largest empire in the worlds largest economy. The economic knife which they can wield for influence is enormous and unfortunately the outcomes are frightening. The largest funder of anti-global warming propaganda, tea party movement and limiting taxation and environmental responsibility for corporations. Reading this article will make clear why companies like Google have a mission statement of 'Do no Evil'. The Google founders were aware of the potential when power is amassed on such an enormous scale and goes unchecked. Please Read This and pass on to friends.

Pressures on Planet Earth

Fri, 03 Sep 2010 05:56:45 +0000

Another important TED talk. The pressures facing planet earth and the opportunities inherent.

A living legend

Thu, 02 Sep 2010 03:52:39 +0000

Terry Gross interviews Willie Nelson in this recording. It's always after a legend is gone that we recognize their genius and incredible timeless gifts. Willie Nelson is still with us and in this interview Terry captures much of what makes this man so amazing. Give it a listen

Make Your Own Clothes Drying Rack

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 18:21:53 +0000

Learn how to make your own clothes drying rack at home and begin to lower your energy costs and carbon footprint. Contributing editor Kristina Strain lays out everything involved and shows you how.Learn How Now

Temple Grandin

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 04:58:22 +0000

HBO has produced another excellent biographical portrait with it's recently released Temple Grandin story. Clare Danes is excellent as the autistic young woman who overcomes all the obstacles to become a college professor and expert on autism and animal husbandry. HBO should be acknowledged as the leader in producing this quality of much needed public awareness and educational programming as demonstrated by 'You Don't Know Jack', the story of Jack Kevorkian and Temple Grandin. http://www.hbo.com/movies/temple-grandin/index.html

It's time to BAN-THE-BAG

Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:28:56 +0000

It's time to Ban the Bag. In Portland we will celebrate the new year with a $0.20 charge every time you "need" a plastic bag when shopping. I heard a clerk the other day expressing her excitement for this new law and how infuriating it is for a person buying a package of batteries requiring a double-bag for an item that will fit in their pocket. Find out what your state or city is doing to Ban the Bag!

Getting Started with Canning: How to make pickles at home

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 18:03:45 +0000

Intro to Canning Video: Equipment & Safety

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 20:46:51 +0000

We've just released this video on getting started with canning. We cover the equipment and safety concerns.

Canning & Preserve Supplies

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 17:06:57 +0000

We've added a large selection of canning supplies to help you to preserve your harvest. This is a great time of year to start canning. Check out all canning supplies.

A wonderful message for everyone

Tue, 24 Aug 2010 06:12:06 +0000

No words can describe the powerful message provided by this man. Just watch this and then share it with others.

Air Conditioning Run Amok

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 12:53:18 +0000

Apparently in New York City there are countless apartments where the occupants utility costs are built into their monthly rent or dues. This leads to many people leaving their heat or AC on when they travel, so that they can return to a comfortable apartment. I can't imagine anyone in their right mind doing this if they were paying for it or if they gave a damn about the carbon footprint for their self-indulgence. The New York Times has a detailed story

Another thing that I hope people will consider when going on vacation or planning a business meeting is to steer clear of Las Vegas. The city is anything but sustainable.All the food, electricity, water and raw materials are brought in from elsewhere. It's also in the middle of desert, which means every building and room is air conditioned 24/7/365. Las Vegas is truly the least sustainable place in America.

Green Universities and Students on Science Friday

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 20:18:55 +0000

On today's Science Friday there is a discussion regarding which Universities are embracing sustainability and how students are also becoming more environmentally responsible. Give it a listen

Are the terrorists winning?

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 15:26:10 +0000

I believe that the U.S. telling the world we won't tolerate a muslim cultural center a few blocks from ground zero is exactly what Al Queda would like to hear from us. The more we limit our freedoms the more power we give to terrorists. I think mayor Bloomberg sums it up well.

Whatever you may think of the proposed mosque and community center, lost in the heat of the debate has been a basic question – should government attempt to deny private citizens the right to build a house of worship on private property based on their particular religion? That may happen in other countries, but we should never allow it to happen here. This nation was founded on the principle that the government must never choose between religions, or favor one over another. "The World Trade Center Site will forever hold a special place in our City, in our hearts. But we would be untrue to the best part of ourselves – and who we are as New Yorkers and Americans – if we said 'no' to a mosque in Lower Manhattan. "Let us not forget that Muslims were among those murdered on 9/11 and that our Muslim neighbors grieved with us as New Yorkers and as Americans. We would betray our values – and play into our enemies' hands – if we were to treat Muslims differently than anyone else. In fact, to cave to popular sentiment would be to hand a victory to the terrorists – and we should not stand for that. "For that reason, I believe that this is an important test of the separation of church and state as we may see in our lifetime – as important a test – and it is critically important that we get it right. Michael Bloomberg

Loss after Katrina on Fresh Air

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:38:48 +0000

Today's Fresh Air has Terry Gross interviewing Pulitzer Prize poet Natasha Trethewey on her experiences of loss after Katrina. I didn't really think it would be that compelling or powerful when I first started listening, but half way through I was riveted. The story of loss for her family is an enormous tragedy and a reminder of the legacy which Katrina has left.

How Smart is Smart Water?

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 00:18:03 +0000

Lately you may have noticed a new product in stores and in advertising called 'Smart Water'. It's basically bottled water with some supplemental vitamins and minerals. I want to call this out as not so smart, since it is basically just as bad for the environment and more expensive than bottled water. Additionally, most studies on supplemental vitamins have found that they are often not absorbed by the body. So, if you really want to drink Smart Water, please remember to drink tap water from a stainless steel or reusable water bottle. Also, consider making some home made sun brewed tea and putting it in the refrigerator. If it's made with green tea and some medicinal herbs, you'll have truly Smart Water and it tastes great too.

How to Build a Cold Frame

Tue, 17 Aug 2010 19:17:12 +0000

Now that Summer is winding down it's a good time to consider planning for some how to garden the rest of the year. A cold frame provides a great way to create starts and grow vegetables in colder weather and with shorter days. This article tells you how to make your own cold frame and you can learn the benefits.

Hybrid and Human Powered

Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:05:14 +0000

Check out the human powered car. I'm sure we'll be seeing more products like this in the future.

White House Baker Recipe: Fruit & Oat Bars

Fri, 13 Aug 2010 02:34:54 +0000

This recipe for a tasty and nutritious treat from the White House baker looks tasty. Check out the recipe.

The Story of Cosmetics

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 17:42:47 +0000

Did you know that the average American woman uses 12 personal care products every day? Did you know that, unlike for food, there's no independent regulatory agency making sure cosmetics and hygiene products are safe? Furthermore, did you know that less than 20% of the ingredients in cosmetics have even been assessed for safety? Watch this video to learn more!

Home Made Recycling Center

Thu, 12 Aug 2010 16:55:02 +0000

Here's a great way to get your home recycling organized. Our contributing editor Kristina Strain has written an article on how to make a home recycling center from a discarded filing cabinet. Perfect way to re-purpose a filing cabinet and manage your recyclables. Read how now

Terry Gross interview with Tony Judt

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 21:52:04 +0000

Today on Fresh Air an interview with historian Tony Judt is re-broadcast to acknowledge his passing from ALS in the past week. This is a powerful interview with life affirming insights, frightening descriptions of the disease and his perspectives on his contributions to his profession.

There was so much depth to this interview that I listened to it twice to take it in fully. Listen Now

Portugal is a leader in renewable energy development

Wed, 11 Aug 2010 19:24:25 +0000

A fascinating article on the path Portugal has chosen to develop and provide renewable energy. Their use of solar, wind and hydro power are expected to lead to 50% of energy derived from renewables in the next 15 years. Read the NY Times story.

Soap Nuts: Do they work and how well?

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 16:23:26 +0000

Contributing Editor Kristina Strain has just finished her review of the laundry detergent alternative Soap Nuts. Learn what they are, how they work and what the results were. Read the Soap Nuts Review.

But Will It Make Me Happy?

Mon, 09 Aug 2010 13:40:46 +0000

The New York Times has this GREAT article on what researches are discovering truly makes people happy (experiences and relationships) and how the recession is transforming our behavior to focus on what is meaningful. From the couple in Portland who gave away all of their stuff and live in a 400 square foot apartment to the guy who sold his house in the burbs to live in a trailer park where he could surf, people are realizing that stuff is meaningless and puts them in a cyclical trap of consumption. The environmental and social benefits from this new thinking are tremendous as we decrease our consumption and find more value from our community and home life.

In Defense of Unmowed Lawns

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:47:10 +0000

Check out this wonderful article by naturalist and writer Marcia Bonta on the environmental benefits of unmowed lawns.

Sustainable ideas for 'Back to School'

Fri, 06 Aug 2010 15:42:43 +0000

It's that of year again: back to school. Check out our newest article by Grow and Make Contributing Editor Kristina Strain. Top Ten Green Back to School Ideas.

New Green Cleaning Kit

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 23:56:30 +0000

We've just rolled out a new Green Your Clean at Home Kit. A collection of our most popular BioKleen Home Cleaning Products in a bundle.

Energy Efficient Freezer Tips

Tue, 03 Aug 2010 21:18:48 +0000

New Article: Save on Energy: Refrigerator/Freezer Efficiency Tips. Our contributing editor Kristina Strain outlines some great ideas for how you can save money, reduce your carbon footprint and get more from your freezer.

Make a Re-usable Sandwich Wrap at Home

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 23:12:42 +0000

Learn how to make your own reusable sandwich wrapper. This do-it-yourself wrapping project will provide you with an attractive way to keep your lunch together. Kristina Strain shows you how. Learn how now

TED Talk: The Nuclear Debate

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 17:23:56 +0000

This TED Talk is a must see. As the threat of global warming increases the practical ways to deal with it are diminishing quickly. In this debate Steward Brand and Stanford Professor Mark Jacobson debate the question of 'is nuclear power viable'. We all need to be discussing this important question and coming to conclusions sooner, rather than later. Please watch and pass on.

Are we getting enough Vitamin D?

Sat, 31 Jul 2010 00:59:54 +0000

This article in the New York Times asks an important question and has some fascinating data to chew on. It seems that we are not getting enough vitamin D in our diet. We are getting less sun and when we are in the sun protecting ourselves with layers of sunblock. Maybe it's time to get away from the computers and putter in the garden, play at the park and hike in the woods. I eat sushi once a week and also enjoy good old fashion milk on cereal, which is highly fortified with vitamin D. This is particularly important for children and their development.

Here is a list of nutritional sources of vitamin D.

This list is sorted by best source first.

Pure Cod liver oil, 1 Tablespoon (Note: most refined cod liver oils today have the vitamin D removed! Check your label to be certain.)
Salmon, cooked, 3½ ounces
Mackerel, cooked, 3½ ounces
Tuna fish, canned in oil, 3 ounces
Sardines, canned in oil, drained, 1¾ ounces
Milk, nonfat, reduced fat, and whole, vitamin D fortified, 1 cup
Margarine, fortified, 1 Tablespoon
Pudding, prepared from mix and made with vitamin D fortified milk, ½ cup
Ready-to-eat cereals fortified with 10% of the DV for vitamin D, ¾ cup to 1 cup servings (servings vary according to the brand)
Egg, 1 whole (vitamin D is found in egg yolk)
Liver, beef, cooked, 3½ ounces
Cheese, Swiss, 1 ounce

What do you think?

True love story

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 17:11:30 +0000

Here is a heart warming story about true love between a son and mother. It will bring a tear to your eye and remind you of what is important in life. Give it a listen

Make Your Own Dishwashing Detergent

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:09:03 +0000

We have a new video on making your own dishwashing detergent with our contributing editor Kristina Strain. This video will show you how to make a simple replacement for store-bought dishwasher soap which works just as well. Kristina will also show you a green replacement for rinse aid. Making these items at home is fun and empowering, lessening your environmental impact while saving you money.

New Eco Friendly Lunch Box

Fri, 30 Jul 2010 04:29:16 +0000

We've just added these new stainless steel 3 piece lunch boxes. Great for kids, work or hitting the road. Here's a non-toxic and waste-free stainless steel lunch box. This three piece set includes two large rectangular containers that stack on top of each other (with one lid) and a smaller container. Check them out

NeighborGoods.com

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 17:36:10 +0000

Neighborgoods.net is a website which helps folks to share their stuff with others. You can rent, borrow or lend your items to others and promote sustainability by reducing the need to buy. Listen to the NPR report on how it all works or visit the Neighborgoods.net website.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider alternatives to disposable batteries

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 00:10:48 +0000

Today's eco-tip is to consider alternatives to battery based products. An estimated 146,000 tons of disposable batteries are thrown into landfill each year in the U.S. and they are not biodegradable. Rechargeable batteries are one option as well as hand-crank or solar powered devices and gadgets.

Story of Cosmetics

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:58:46 +0000

From Growandmake.com Healthy Beauty Editor Andrea Fox

To find out more about the dangers in mainstream cosmetics at drugstores and department stores, see the all new Annie Leonard and Campaign for Safe Cosmetics Story of Cosmetics. Also, remember that Leonard’s cosmetic call to action--“the choice to be safe and healthy”--can be made everyday on GrowandMake.com’s all new Healthy Beauty Guide.

Raymand Carver Biography Reviewed by Stephen King

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 16:10:03 +0000

I really enjoyed reading Stephen King's review of the Raymond Carver biography by Carol Sklenicka. Raymond Carver's life was such a conflicted story and Stephen King has a great take on the literary giants most complete biography to date. If you appreciate Carver's writings, you'll probably enjoy this review. Read it now.

Friedman on the Energy Bill - "We're Gonna Be Sorry"

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 03:14:21 +0000

Today's editorial by Thomas Friedman is totally on target and very bleak. This is one we all should read and try to push back on the forces which are keeping this legislation from moving forward. As Friedman says "We're all gonna be sorry" about our inaction and the Republicans pulling the rug out from under any kind of responsible action for dealing with the pending disaster of global warming.

Ray Kurzweil interviewed on TechNation

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 21:36:12 +0000

On this weeks Tech Nation, Moira Gunn interviews Ray Kurzweill. Ray Kurzweil is a renowned inventor and scientist known primarily for inventing the Kurzweil synthesizers. In the past decade he's become more recognized for his work on studying and predicting the future. His book The Singularity is Near is an exciting outline of the incredible changes we'll see in the next 25 years. His ideas are far reaching but fascinating. Well worth a listen.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider alternatives to "air fresheners"

Sat, 24 Jul 2010 00:18:15 +0000

Today's eco-tip is to consider alternatives to the chemically manufactured spray "air fresheners".

First, see if you can remove the source of the odor. If not then consider one of the following alternatives.

1. Combine three parts white vinegar and one part water and put into a spray bottle. Spray in the area of the odor and watch the smell disappear.

2. Open a nearby window or turn on a fan.

3. Place baking soda boxes throughout your home in odorous areas.

4. Boil spices in water to produce a pleasant fragrance. Use cinnamon and cloves.

A legend passes on - Daniel Schorr

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 23:09:20 +0000

On Saturday if I don't have the time to listen to the NPR Saturday Morning News, I usually always found the time to listen to the Daniel Schorr summary of the weeks event. During these weekly segments Daniel Schorr would chat with Scott Simon about what caught his attention during the week and then provide his insights and analysis. He was always erudite and often would provide a vantage that those of us without nearly a century of experience would miss.

Today I learned that Mr. Schorr passed on at the age of 93. This is a great loss, but not one that will go without appreciation and reflection. He was a man of the twentieth century who covered the events for CBS News and was one of Edward R. Murrow's Boys. A true legend has passed on.

New Addition: GroVia Baby Diapers & Accessories

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 20:24:53 +0000

After evaluating all of the baby diaper alternatives on the market we've decided to move ahead with the GroVia line of environmentally responsible reusable diaper systems and accessories. The GroVia system was reviewed by our editors and given a big thumbs up. We've included their entire line of nursery products, which come in attractive colors and are made in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. Check out GroVia on Growandmake.com and read our review.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider alternatives to air conditioning

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:55:43 +0000

Air conditioning requires a tremendous amount of electricity and subsequently has both a huge carbon footprint as well as increases our dependence on fossil fuels. If you must use an air conditioner consider doing so sparingly or only in one room of the house. Otherwise consider these alternatives.

Table top fan or circulating ceiling fans are a great way to keep air moving through your home and provides relief. Also, if you have central air turn on the central fan without the conditioning. Although these methods use electricity, it's a lot less than AC.

Hang out at public locations which are already air-conditioned during peak times of day.

Consider dressing very lightly or in just a bathing suit. Take an occasional cold shower or swim. Keep cool by wetting clothing so that it's slightly damp.

Make Your Own Cloth Diaper

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 20:02:00 +0000

Contributing Editor Kristina Strain has just published her latest article on Making Your Own Cloth Diapers. These diapers are an excellent way to reduce landfill while putting your own touch to your babies behind.

Daily Eco-Tip: Use your local library

Thu, 22 Jul 2010 01:02:44 +0000

Today's daily eco-tip is to encourage the use of local libraries. By sharing a book with your community you are reducing paper waste, carbon creation and supporting an institution which promotes literacy, intellectual growth and community. There are so many reasons for us all to patronize a local library.

Keeping your clothing by re-purposing

Wed, 21 Jul 2010 15:34:32 +0000

Many people find they have a closet full of clothing which they no longer wear because they're not inspiring the way the way they were when purchased. Instead of going out and buying new clothing, consider re-purposing your clothing by taking it apart and creating something new. In the 21st century people are realizing that 'buying new' is being replaced by 'making new'. Read the article and get inspired.

Bamboo Utensils & Plates

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 23:43:51 +0000

A great alternative to disposable paper plates and chemically questionable plastic plates and utensils is bamboo. With bamboo plates and bamboo utensils you have a reusable alternative made from the most sustainable resource on earth.

You no longer need to feed your kids from plastic or toss those paper plates into the trash when you start using bamboo plates, forks, spoons and knifes.

Make Your Own Ginger Ale

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 21:56:06 +0000

This week Contributing Editor Kristina Strain will teach you how to make your own ginger ale at home. It's the perfect summertime treat. Read the article

Drug Legalization Discussion on NPR

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 20:13:13 +0000

Today on NPR's Talk of the Nation, host Neal Conan had a great discussion with the audience and author Tom Feiling regarding the legalization of drugs in the U.S. Given the amount of money, jail time and a failed drug policy, it's time to consider treating drug use and addiction as a public health issue. The money and energy we could spend towards education and treatment would go much farther than the wasted billions on 'Just Say No' and trying to fight the cartels. Listen to this great discussion.

Global Warming Status

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 05:55:28 +0000

According to NOAA (National Oceanic & Atmospheric Agency) this past June was the hottest in recorded history. July looks it could be on track for the same kind of result. Despite this there are a large number of people who question global warming based on an emotional feeling that it's something invented by Democrats and scientists. It's maddening to think the ultimate cost of this willful ignorance will have severe impacts on future generations and countless millions of people. I have always thought that there should be a monument created with the names and quotes of those public figures who doubt global warming and those who know that it's real. The monument would have two sides, which would have a permanent record of the words of those who allowed the disaster to happen and those who tried to steer us clear. I think if this were created today it would cause a lot of people spouting off to re-consider their pronouncements.

If you need more evidence, look at these photos of Mt. Everest which show a glacier in 1921 compared to the same one in 2010.

The Future of Wild Fish

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 23:17:23 +0000

Terry Gross has a great and alarming discussion regarding the 'Future of Fish', the environmental and health consequences of the fish we consume with Paul Greenberg the author of 'Four Fish: The future of the last wild food'. Give it a listen.

The Environmental Cost of Having Your Nails Done

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 15:40:29 +0000

By Healthy Beauty Contributing Editor Andrea Fox Do you get your nails done at the salon? Not only is daily exposure hazardous to the technicians as reported by Change.org this week, but the chemicals aren’t good for you either. Nail polish contains toluene, formaldehyde, and dibutyl phthalate (dbp), which are endocrine disrupters and are also linked to cancer. If you must varnish your nails, skip the salon and go it at home with Goldie by Bath & Body Works. Their notable trio packs are also available on Amazon.com. In addition to being free of the toxic trio, they are also free of animal products.

Roger Altman - Op-Ed NYTimes.com

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 04:38:45 +0000

I believe Roger Altman (Clinton Administration Treasury Secretary) has it right when he outlines the reasons that the Obama administration should be seen as pro-business (Obama's Business Plan) and having made the right decisions to bring back our economy from certain ruin to relative stability. It's surprising to me what incredible and unrealistic expectations we put on our leaders. In Obama's case it's been digging our country out of the hole it was put in by the previous administration.

Make a Million - This American Life

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:55:57 +0000

I really enjoyed this weeks episode of This American Life on 'how to make a million'. Many laugh-out-loud moments. Also, if you haven't seen 'Double Rainbow' it's not something you see everyday... :>

TED Talk on population growth

Sat, 17 Jul 2010 06:04:24 +0000

Fascinating TED talk on global population growth and how we need to confront over population to avoid further global warming. The recommendation requires ensuring that children in developing countries have a higher likelihood of survival. Exactly what the Gates Foundation is pursuing.

New Beer and Wine Kits

Fri, 16 Jul 2010 22:30:38 +0000

We've just added two new kits. A 1 gallon wine making kit and a beer brewing kit.

1 Gallon Wine Making Kit Includes all the equipment for making 1 gallon of home made wine. Each recipe requires the ingredients and fruit for making the wine. Instructions are included.

Beer Brewing Equipment Kit Includes all the required equipment for brewing beer. Each beer recipe will require unique ingredients. Also includes instructions.

Re-usable cloth produce bags

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 16:52:43 +0000

Our latest 'Make Your Own' article is on making re-usable cloth produce bags. No need to grab those plastic bags at the store when you bring these bags with you. Check out the article by contributing editor Kristina Strain.

The Case Against Air Conditioners

Thu, 15 Jul 2010 04:44:50 +0000

This article from the Washington Post on the 'Case against air conditioning' should be a must read for all Americans, as we witness a great national resource filling with oil and global climate rising to the point of having irreversible consequences for everyone. Read it now

Make Your Own Laundry Soap

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 18:38:46 +0000

We've just released our most recent video on creating your own laundry soap at home. Contributing Editor Kristina Strain walks you through the process.

The Children of Haiti

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 16:33:08 +0000

The CBS News Magazine Sixty Minutes had a powerful and important segment about the plight of the children of Haiti after the earthquake. Watch it if you have a chance.

Fresh Air segment on Psychiatry and Big Pharma in the 21st Century

Wed, 14 Jul 2010 15:40:41 +0000

Fresh Air had a fascinating program yesterday on psychiatry and pharmaceutical influence in treating mental illness. The interview was with author and professor Daniel Carlat.

Eco-Frugal Life Guide

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 05:19:16 +0000

I wanted to give a shout out to the folks at Eco-Frugal Life Guide for promoting paperless coupons and their eco-friendly guide. Have look if you're hunting for eco coupons.

Public radio story on what's edible in our backyard

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 23:50:52 +0000

Here is a public radio story on how to find edible and medicinal plants and herbs that haven’t traveled thousands of miles to get to the supermarket shelf

World Cup 2010

Sun, 11 Jul 2010 21:28:41 +0000

Congratulations to South Africa for hosting an excellent World Cup and to Spain for winning it in over time. Although I was pulling for the Dutch, the brilliant goal scored by Spain in over-time was a well deserved way to win.

Sunscreen re-evaluated

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 05:14:42 +0000

It's getting to be that time of year when we purchase and apply sunscreen to protect our skin from harmful rays. Recently the New York Times had an article which called out FDA concerns with traditional sunblock. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) released their fourth annual Sunscreen Guide and were only able to recommend 8% of the sunscreens reviewed.

The reasons for exclusion were the following:

1) Misleading claims as to the amount of protection provided (SPF rating).

2) Inclusion of a range of potentially harmful ingredients in common sunscreens.

3) The chemical oxybenzone (a synthetic estrogen) in many suncreens is found to be an unhealthy additive.

Our skin and that of our children should be a sensitive place for placing carefully selected and screened products. Also, keep in mind that the sun provides vitamin d through skin absorption, so some exposure is very healthy.

Our Healthy Beauty Editor has tested and vetted the Badger line of sunscreen products, which we proudly carry.

Badger All Natural Sunscreen (SPF 15) Price: $16.00

Now that the kids are asleep

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 05:00:09 +0000

Now that the kids are asleep I wanted to give a pointer to this article by Paul Atkinson on choices in your sex life which are NOT green. The article is titled Go Green Sex: 12 Techniques, Toys And Accessories That Are Bad For The Environment. Most are kind of obvious, but it's a great reminder that sex too has a footprint.

Solar Powered Flight

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 01:04:53 +0000

This had to be a lot of fun. The NYTimes.com reports on the longest solar powered flight. The plane charges during the day, while in flight and then at night the batteries power the turbines.

Make Your Own Plastic Bag Drying Tree

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 22:49:10 +0000

Check out our new article on how to make a simple plastic bag drying tree for your kitchen, which is attractive and can help you to re-use your plastic bags.

Related Products

Telescoping Bag Dryer Price: $14.00

Wood Bag Dryer Price: $17.00

Learn about our power grid

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 21:37:29 +0000

Great discussion on Fresh Air with the author (Joel Achenbach) of a recent National Geographic article on our grid dependence and how the 'smart grid' can make our energy use much more efficient. Very informative and makes clear the opportunity that exists by investing in infrastructure. Give it a listen

Eco Green Cleaning: Bleach as a Pesticide

Thu, 08 Jul 2010 17:15:54 +0000

Wait! Before you reach for that plastic jug 'o bleach, take a moment to acquaint yourself. Did you know that bleach is the world's number one pesticide? In addition to keeping your unmentionables shiny bright, and your counters sparkling, a glug of bleach also spells genocide for any microorganism it encounters. It's harmful to inhale, and even worse to ingest. A splash in the eye can even lead to blindness. Not so innocuous, that bleach.

Take your first step towards eco green cleaning, and nix the bleach! A simple paste of baking soda and vinegar, combined with a smidge of elbow grease, will do the job just as well. In the laundry, try lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide to gets your whites whiter. Your body, family, and environment will thank you!

Check out our green household cleaning products.

Make Your Own Rain Barrel?

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 22:47:02 +0000

If you have always wanted to harvest rain water and have that full barrel for watering in your back yard, this article is a starter guide to making your own rain barrel. It's fairly simple to get started and there are a lot of possibilities for those who like the idea of capturing the rain. Rainwater collection is particularly popular in the Southwestern United States where the water tables are low and the days of rain few. If you want to buy a rain barrel or a rain barrel kit, we can help you with that too. Check out our selection of rain barrels and our rain barrel kits.

Eco-Friendly Water Bottles

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 22:20:33 +0000

Now that the heat has arrived it's time to make sure you stay hydrated! Make sure you have a reusable water bottle. The eco-friendly way to drink is to use a stainless steel or glass water bottle.

Andy Grove on Capitalism in the 21st Century

Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:51:13 +0000

Andy Grove has an excellent editorial in the Seattle Times about the cost of outsourcing jobs to China. Until I read this article I believed that outsourcing was a necessary evil to ensure our economic engine continues to run efficiently, but I now realize it's time for our nation to engage in a discussion about priorities for capitalism in the 21st century. After the gulf oil disaster, financial meltdown on Wall Street and senseless death of miners in West Virgina, maybe it's time for a new form of capitalism which isn't solely about profits and shareholder interests.

Remember to drink and use reusable water bottles

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 18:01:15 +0000

As the weather heats up (96 tomorrow in Portland predicted) it's important to drink a lot of water and stay hydrated. But before you grab that plastic bottle of manufactured water, remember these statistics and that tap water is just as good as bottled.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider a Staycation this Summer

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 16:29:14 +0000

This Summer many people are considering a Staycation as an alternative to the traditional Summer vacation. Consider the possibilities. 1) You can save money and greatly reduce your carbon footprint. 2) Becoming a tourist in your own city is a way to explore and experience your city in new ways. 3) Some Staycations are all about getting a lot of things done around the house that you've put off.

Daily Post for 7/5/10

Tue, 06 Jul 2010 04:17:45 +0000

I have to agree with David Brooks (A Little Economic Realism), where in his most recent Times editorial he questions the idea of another economic stimulus package. It seems that there is something fundamentally shifting in our economy and it might be a while until we get out from under it. There is no doubt that piling on mountains of debt is expensive and risky and testing another stimulus will only grow the deficit. Maybe it is time for some restraint. Hopefully the belt tightening we experience as a nation and as individuals will help us to rethink what is important and take more responsibility for our spending.

The other side of the argument is heard on the Charlie Rose show yesterday as Paul Krugman (Nobel Prize Economist and Princeton Professor) argues that holding back spending now is a mistake. Click and then click on the first 'recent show'.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider Screen Coffee Filter

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 18:32:53 +0000

Today's daily eco-tip is to consider replacing your paper coffee filter with a screen filter. Screen filters can be used daily without wasting paper. Easy to use and just as effective as paper filters.

Daily Eco-Tip: Wash full loads to save water.

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 23:23:00 +0000

When washing clothes wash full loads, but don't overload the machine. Washing full loads can save 3,400 gallons of water annually.

Daily Eco-Tip: Install low-flow and energy efficient showerhead

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 16:38:14 +0000

Now that it's getting hot, it's a great time to start finding ways to reduce your water use. The easiest way to make a big dent in your water footprint is to install low-flow showerheads. Also, if you or your family leave the shower running until the water gets hot, try out an evolve roadrunner showerhead.

Interview with Copeland Casati

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 17:17:39 +0000

Yesterday I interviewed Copeland Casati of Green Modern Kits regarding her passion and insights for modern eco-friendly structure and home kits.

Q: Let's start with a little background on you. What brought you to the place you are today?

A: Oh, gosh. THAT is not a short answer! A native of Virginia, my family has always had farms… yet I’m urban as well (I lived in the East Village of New York Cit-tay for seven years, honeychile, and Paris…). I always get along with either very rural or very urban people- their sense of community is stronger. Plus they have a great sense of humor, and, you might have noticed, I like to poke fun of myself.

We always had a vegetable garden growing up, so now my children have one too. Our garden is not always successful, which makes me keenly aware of the fragility between ourselves and the food we eat.

Awareness of wasteful practices and the rise of GMOs made me gravitate back to things my lineage practiced, and expand upon them with modern, yet respectful, technology. It’s not about going back to doing things not as well; it’s about utilizing past tools that still work well without electricity, incorporating larger, later knowledge, and asking yourself, “Do I really need that? Do I really want that?” Or can I enjoy creative, practical ways of not using plastic wrap (it’s called a plate on top of a bowl, honeys, to store your leftovers) or refusing to contribute waste to my children’s school system by not sending them to school with anything disposable but instead a bento box, real cloth napkins and real utensils, much less refusing to buy a plastic nap mat. Yes, it’s sad you have to say real. It’s so… simple. And enjoyable. And if you embrace reuse and craftiness, it can be more affordable. It’s good sense!

Q: Tell us a little about your websites and blog.

A: We have three lines of passive solar prefab house kits: www.GreenModernKits.com, www.GreenCottageKits.com, and www.GreenCabinKits.com. The prefab house kits are either very modern or unabashedly cottage-y, as if the cottages were designed 200 years ago yet for the next 200 years, where you can snap on your solar and rainwater collection systems and achieve zero energy goodness. All are designed for energy efficiency, so that you don’t need big systems because they are already functioning through passive solar design and tight insulation with SIPs (structural insulated panels). I aim to bring green building for The Rest Of Us – affordably, with practical function, to pass down for generations. My aim is not to build, build, build, but to solve housing needs in a smart growth, preservationist manner.

Oh. The Blog. You must be talking about http://prefab-green-home.greenmodernkits.com. Well, the idea was that as each house kit is built, each person blogs about their house kit construction so we can all see what they do with it, learn from their experiences, showcase their creativity. Well, we have quite a few house kits underway and… I’m the only one blogging. [Pointedly glances towards New York, West Virginia and Colorado… ; ) ]

Even worse? I ramble. It’s not a construction blog. It’s a… well, you never know what I’ll be talking about, energy audits or the Amish, I never know myself! I try to document technical off grid systems / green building information, but somehow other stuff always happens… I particularly enjoy rambling about recycled clothes (Vintage! Hat! Friiiiday!) and illicit urban livestock. (Seriously, the Supreme Court confirms my gun rights yet I don’t have the right to a few humanely raised chickens?)

Q: What inspired you to pursue building your own sustainable abode?

A: I lost my family farm in my mid-twenties, after a lifetime of being told it was a family farm. I was an adult, working and living in New York and I came home one day and… What? What happened?

Now I’m creating my own, to determinedly pass on and preserve for our children, and their children... Sustainability is not just about LEED accreditation. It’s about lessening stress on systems, not draining resources but replenishing them, it’s about knowing where your food comes from, it’s about community preserving community. It’s about the strategy and decisions you make to preserve the landscape and to ensure it is passed on and protected. And honeychile, if you’re in urban planning / zoning: it’s about chickunz. ; ) For the people who need it most, we should all have the right to hormone-free backyard eggs.

Sustainability is also preserving and passing things on, a subject I will go into more as my own prefab house kit is finished.

Q: How accessible and feasible is building a home from a kit and in a more sustainable manner for the average person?

A: Reality: You are not going to get a 2,000 square foot finished house for $30,000. It breaks my heart when I get people asking, “Does that come with a foundation and solar panels?” Think about it: How much does it cost to build a XYZ square foot house with XYZ systems in your neighborhood? Ok, there’s your guess-timate to start with in green building.

I purposely did not “finish” these house kits as much as most prefabs, for a reason: Over engineering means the consumer does not get 100% of what they want, it’s more expensive, with more opportunity for things to go wrong in shipping, and does not allow for more creative customization. Plus when consumers use local contractors and craftsmen we leave green building skills in that community.

If I had “finished” our prefab house kits, would I as a consumer have the opportunity to eschew dry wall and instead recycle VMI’s old basketball court on my walls? No...

Q: What are the big challenges now with green and sustainable building practices?

A: Performance measurement, LEED-igation. But that is tied to certification. Like the organic vs. natural food industry, I personally have a non-certified approach (you are certainly welcome to adjust our house kits to whatever certification you seek whether it be LEED, Passive House, ASHRAE…). But that confidence comes from education, knowing how things work… it’s like knowing where your food comes from. I buy food from my friends’ farms, they’re not certified, but I know their farm practices and philosophy! Now if they’re marketing to Joe Schmoe who doesn’t know them, those certifications mean they meet criteria. But they also cost money to certify.

I think a big challenge is in current urban planning: what to do with the existing stock of suburbia, and unleased downtown storefronts and lots. That is for each community to approach creatively, and learn from each other, to apply locally and culturally, to best address.

A planner thinking they can carve out developments of cul-de-sacs from fringe rural landscapes vs. smart growth merits disdain.

Q: What are the constraints that exist for those who might consider a sustainable prefab house kit?

A: Well, your site is important if you want our passive solar house kit to work… regardless of where the lake view is! And even if you don’t choose our prefab home, NOW YOU KNOW! Why, why would you want all that glass facing the wrong way towards The View? Even when you get someone to build as you please, how can you erase from your mind the dollars floating, unstoppable, out those glass panes into the northern, View-Oriented breeze? Knowledge, honeychiles, knowledge!

Q: What kind of efficiencies and ROI should one expect from a sustainable home investment?

A: Great question, and one, as I mentioned previously, ROI / LEED-igation is a topic for the green building lawyers.

As a non-certifying consumer of my own passive solar prefab house kit product, we as a family love seeing how our own house kit performs without systems installed. Seeing how we could not only take the prefab house kit but further add to its efficiency and functionality without systems has been the big geeky fun family project this year.

Now the systems? Systems are another matter. The house kit is not where you get so off track on expenses. But as you get into systems, as you look at the whole of your home construction, you make decisions: Do I buy the $25 inefficient cheapo toilet at a yard sale or do I buy the $200 efficient toilet or the $1,500 composting toilet? Realize you have to make those decisions for Every. Line. Item. For. Building. Your. Dream. Home and, when totaled, it can add up to a lot.

OR You can also learn to do more, with less.

Bio:

Copeland Casati is a bandit in real life. Checkout her site Green Modern Kit
or her blog

Green Computer Quiz for Kids

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 16:54:25 +0000

My daughter showed me 'Arthur's Groovy Garden' this morning, which is a green quiz game for kids. It's based on the Arthur book and series characters and is a great way to educate your kids on what it means to be green. Check it our with your kids

Daily Eco-Tip: Plan a yard sale

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 15:08:31 +0000

Now that Summer has arrived it's a great time to get your green on by having a yard sale. By reselling your discarded items you are helping someone else to not buy newly manufactured and shipped products, prolonging the life of the products you purchased and retaining some of your investment. You're also saving someone else money. A yard or garage sale is a great way to green your Summer.

Lenny Kravits crashes church choir

Wed, 30 Jun 2010 00:53:32 +0000

This is a fun video. Lenny Kravits crashes a church choir and jams.. if this doesn't make you smile.

Daily Eco-Tip: Refill your printer cartridges instead of buying new

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 21:49:04 +0000

Today's daily eco-tip is to refill your printer cartridges when the ink is low instead of buying new cartridges. This will save you time, money and eliminate the packaging and fuel required to get a new cartridge to the store and your home. There are many local businesses which can perform the refill and you can buy cartridge refill kits at Costco and online.

Popsicle Recipes for the Summer

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 16:26:13 +0000

Check out tips and recipes for exotic summer popsicles, just added to our Kids, Family & Pets Guide. Flavors include Honeydew mint, ginger tamarind, and strawberry banana for the kids. Check them out.

Solar Powered Ice Maker

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 14:52:30 +0000

This is cool. The World Bank and Heifer International have funded the development of this solar-powered ice maker used by small dairies in Kenya. Check out the website.

Daily Eco-Tip: Dry laundry loads back-to-back

Tue, 29 Jun 2010 00:30:45 +0000

Today's daily eco-tip is to consider drying all of your laundry loads back-to-back (washing all your laundry for the week at one time) when using an electric dryer. Doing so is more efficient because it leverages the heat from the previous laundry load in the next load, saving energy. Of course, a better idea is to setup a drying rack or laundry linefor drying and use no electricity.

Quick Fixes & Repairs for Salvaging Clothing

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:32:46 +0000

Contributing Editor Kristina Strain has created this new article 'Five Easy Sewing Repairs & Alterations Anyone Can Do'. It's a perfect way to increase the lifespan of your favorite clothing, reduce consumption and save money.

Terry Gross interview Dan Gottleib

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 21:34:14 +0000

This is a powerful and meaningful interview about what is truly important in life and what it means to have riches. Terry Gross is such a great interviewer. Give it a listen.

A must see and a must read

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 05:31:04 +0000

The new documentary GasLand, which premiered on HBO this week is a must-see story. The costs of industry de-regulation can be enormous and grim, both for humans and the environment. This is a film everyone should see.

The New York Times has an excellent story on the personal costs to a family when technology prolongs life when life may not be worth prolonging.

Daily Eco-Tip: Consider Soy Based Candles

Wed, 23 Jun 2010 16:07:22 +0000

Today's daily eco-tip is to consider soy based candles the next time you purchase candles. Soy candles use no petroleum, which means they are cleaner burning for the environment and not contributing to petroleum consumption. You can make your own soy based candles using a kit from Grow and Make. Soy is also slower burning so you get more for your money, as well.

Start Growing Your Own Sprouts

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 17:36:04 +0000

Our contributing editor Kristina Strain has just completed her article on growing sprouts at home. This article covers everything you'll need to grow sprouts and ideas and recipes for using in the kitchen. Discover how much more delicious radish, broccoli or sunflower sprouts are than the traditional alfalfa sprout.

Daily Eco-Tip: Install an automated watering system

Tue, 22 Jun 2010 02:14:46 +0000

With Summer starting today's daily eco-tip is to consider installing a drip-irrigation or automated watering system. Whether it's for your entire yard and garden or simply a few plants on your back porch, a drip water system can save countless gallons of water over time. If you choose to use a timer you can also save yourself a lot of time by automating the watering process.

We have a number of automated irrigation systems you can explore on Growandmake.com

This American Life on the Economy

Sun, 20 Jun 2010 22:15:16 +0000

This weeks This American Life is an excellent episode on the current economy with focus on New York state, but really translates to most states in our union. Well worth a listen.

Hand-made artisan soaps

Sat, 19 Jun 2010 04:57:03 +0000

We've just added a collection of hand-made all natural and organic soaps. These are artisan soaps with a wonderful scent and pure ingredients. Check them out.

Wal-Mart Promote Local Farmers

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 16:06:18 +0000

NPR has a story this morning on how Wal-Mart is promoting and investing in local farmers to reduce costs and create environmental benefits. Have a listen to this interesting story

Make Your Own Refashioned Apron - Two Ways

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 16:00:13 +0000

Growandmake.com contributing editor Kristina Strain has put together this great step-by-step article on how to create an apron at home with either an old skirt of shirt. She provides detailed photos and instructions to make your own apron.

Make your own soft cheese and yogurt kit

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 03:29:08 +0000

"Fancy a cheese Gromit?". If you love good quality soft cheese, like Wallace of Wallace and Gromit, you'll love making your own cheeses. We've just added a soft cheese and yogurt making kit to our catalog with everything you need to make Buttermilk, Buttermilk Cheese, Cream Cheese, Creme Fraiche, Fromage Blanc, Keifer, Keifer Cheese, Mascarpone, Panir, Queso Blanco, Sour Cream, Whey Recipes, Yogurt and Yogurt Cheese. You'll love the results you can achieve.

Friedman on the Gulf Spill

Sun, 13 Jun 2010 16:54:48 +0000

Today in the Times Thomas Friedman has an article which is right on the money. We are all to blame for the gulf catastrophe due to our over consumption and unwillingness to change our lifestyles. The finger pointing is pretty pointless if we cannot fundamentally change the way we consume and our dependence on oil. Read it and chime in