Environmentalists used to be called “Tree Huggers,” now we call them socially conscious, and suddenly it’s hip to look out for the environment!  Global warming, ozone depletion and carbon footprint are household words that even the younger generation has learned to respect. But what is “green,” really? Bamboo flooring?  Driving a hybrid?  Actually the term “green” has no clear criteria.  It simply indicates a level of consciousness about the way we treat our planet…  

With so many choices from green laundry detergent to electric cars, I thought it might be a good idea to identify some of the places we can make the biggest green difference at home.  Proper insulation and weather-stripping, upgrading to energy-star appliances and dual-pane windows with solar shades can reduce your energy consumption by up to %60!  A well-designed solar panel array can produce enough electricity to power your home and sell the surplus back to the power company. You could be getting a check every month instead of a bill!

But what if solar panels and new appliances aren’t in your budget? I’ve got a few simple ways to be more green without any up-front investment:  set your timer to water your lawn no more than twice a week, 10 minutes each time.  It’s actually better for your lawn. It’ll grow deeper roots, which will make it less fragile and require less water.  Use large appliances, like your dishwasher and laundry, at night when electricity is cheaper to produce. Be sure to separate your trash—recycling glass, plastic, aluminum and paper significantly reduces land fill and consumption of our natural resources.

For more tips on going green at home, check the Show-notes

Here’s my Tech Tip for today:
Bell Laboratories announced the first working solar panel in 1954. Since then solar arrays have popped up all around the world. Every satellite is outfitted with a set of panels and within the last 5 years, purses, briefcases and even sweaters have been fitted with flexible solar collectors to charge handheld devices. It’s official, the sun is a superstar! …and why not? She shines abundant free energy over the whole earth. No favoritism, no politics…

If you’re ready for a full rooftop solar array, check the Show-notes for how to contact a solar power expert in your area. You’ll also find some of the coolest solar powered gadgets for sale on the web.

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