
Going green is not a new concept to Yvon Chouinard, owner and founder of Patagonia, the premier outdoor gear and clothing company. Since 1972, Chouinard has insisted that Patagonia be environmentally responsible. Today, businesses compete to see who can be the most green. Maybe they should just be green with envy! He insists that business can enrich our lives and make a profit without losing its soul. Going green and staying in the black is a business model to emulate. For more: www.patagonia.com![]()
How about heating and cooling from a single 100% recyclable plastic compact unit? The C2 Climate Control not only improves your comfort level, it filters the air around you. And it uses approximately 90% less energy than a typical space heater. All that and it shuts itself off. For more see:
http://www.dwr.com/cutsheet.cfm?id=12483&sku=
Protecting the environment and supporting a worthy cause is easier than you think. It is possible to help fund breast cancer research and at the same time, recycle your old and broken electronics for free. To find a location nearby, see www.recycleforbreastcancer.org ![]()
Undoubtedly there is at least one person in your life who would appreciate chocolate for Valentine's Day but did you know there is "green" chocolate? Your "green" chocolate choices might be chocolate farmed, produced using fair-trade practices or sold in eco-friendly packaging. Check out these online purveyors:
www.dagobachocolate.com
www.chocolatebar.com
www.breschocolates.com
www.vosgeschocolate.com![]()
Who knew that there is such an easy way to save energy? Merely plugging your major electronic components into a power strip that can be completely shut down guarantees that TV’s, DVD players and other gadgets don't suck up power as they sit idle for 20 or more hours a day.
To learn more: http://www.pge.com/about_us/environment/features/climatesmart_whatelsecanido.html![]()
I don't spend alot of time thinking about diapers but before I know it, diapers will reappear in my life. Given the disposable vs. cloth diaper dilemma, I found it intriguing that gDiapers has added a new prouct to the discussion. With disposable inserts and fashionable, washable coverings, the gDiaper hybrid may be the greenest choice for your little one. Flushable. gDiapers puts waste where it belongs, in the toilet. Not in the landfill. To learn more please visit www.gDiapers.com
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If you live and train in the Bay area like I do, the rain might be driving you crazy. But why not use the re-use the rain! Rain harvesting is not a new idea but it certainly is GREEN. Barrels ranging from 55 gallon drums to a 30 gallon barrel can be used to capture rainwater. Barrels are attached to the downspout of the roof with a wide hose. When it rains, the result if free water for your gardening needs! Information about barrels and rain harvesting is available at: www.greenculture.com 
Need a new bag to schlep all of your gear to the gym...one maker of washable bags made from 100 percent upholstery weight cotton has added a new bag made from recycled PLASTIC BOTTLES. Check out www.bhappybags.com