Pingree Sustainability

advancing environmental

2011-09-04T14:24:00.001-04:00

What do you think? Mrs. Dedieu

Obama abandons tougher ozone standard

Rule had been target of major lobbying effort

September 03, 2011|By John M. Broder, New York Times

WASHINGTON - The Obama administration is abandoning its plan to immediately tighten air quality rules nationwide to reduce emissions of smog-causing chemicals after an intense lobbying campaign by industry, which said the new rule would cost billions of dollars and hundreds of thousands of jobs, officials said yesterday.

The White House announcement that it was overruling the Environmental Protection Agency’s plan to adopt a stricter standard for ground-level ozone came just hours after another dismal jobs reports and in the midst of an intensifying political debate over the impact of federal regulations on job creation. President Obama is planning a major address next week on new measures to stimulate employment, while Republicans in Congress and on the presidential campaign trail have harshly criticized the administration’s environmental and health regulations, which they claim are forcing layoffs and the export of jobs.

The EPA, following the recommendation of its scientific advisers, had proposed lowering the so-called ozone standard from that set by the Bush administration to a new stricter standard that would have thrown hundreds of American counties out of compliance with the Clean Air Act. It would have required a major effort by state and local officials, as well as new emissions controls by industries and across the country.

The administration will follow a more lenient Bush administration standard set in 2008 until a scheduled reconsideration of acceptable pollution limits in 2013. Environmental advocates vowed yesterday to challenge that standard in court, saying it is too weak to adequately protect public health.

In a statement, the president reiterated his commitment to environmental concerns, but said, “At the same time, I have continued to underscore the importance of reducing regulatory burdens and regulatory uncertainty, particularly as our economy continues to recover. With that in mind, and after careful consideration, I have requested that Administrator Jackson withdraw the draft Ozone National Ambient Air Quality Standards at this time.’’

In a letter to Lisa P. Jackson, the EPA administrator, the head of the White House office of regulatory affairs, Cass Sunstein, said that the president was rejecting her proposal to tighten the standard.

“He has made it clear he does not support finalizing the rule at this time,’’ Sunstein said.

Sunstein said that changing the rule now would create uncertainty for business and local government. He also said there was no compelling reason to rewrite the ozone standard in advance of the scheduled reconsideration in 2013, a key demand of business interests.

2011-09-04T14:17:00.001-04:00

Check this recent article on animal migration due to climate change. The animals always know first!

Mrs. Dedieu

Plants And Animals Moving As Climate Changes, Study Finds

First Posted: 8/18/11 07:21 PM ET Updated: 8/18/11 07:29 PM ET

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A new study suggests that plants and animals are moving as the climate changes.

Red Orbit reports on research published in the journal Science, showing that as temperatures rise, plants and animals are moving away from the equator and to higher elevations. As the Associated Press writes, they are "fleeing global warming."

2010 tied 2005 as the warmest year on record, according to government climate experts. According to the Associated Press, National Climatic Data Center's David Easterling noted that since 2000, we have experienced nine of the 10 warmest years on record.

In response to a changing climate, the study finds that species are moving away from the equator at an average rate of more than 15 feet per day, or about a mile per year.

The article also asserts that the plants moving the most are in the areas with the highest levels of warming.

In a phone interview with the Associated Press, Chris D. Thomas, a conservation biologist who lead the work, said, "It's not a matter that might happen in the lifetime of our children and our grandchildren. If you look in your garden you can see the effects of climate change already."

The findings are based on the largest analysis to date of the shifting ranges of species in certain areas of the world, according to the Washington Post.

"The more warming there’s been in an area, the more you would expect a species to move, and the more they have moved,” Thomas, told the Post. "This more or less puts to bed the issue of whether these shifts are related to climate change."

The Meatrix - Do You Know Where Your Food Comes From?

2011-06-09T09:48:00.003-04:00

You can thank Crystal Davis for passing this link along to me. The videos are very funny, but at the same time touch upon a topic about which I am becoming more and more passionate--factory farming and its negative impact on health and our country's general social and economic security. Definitely check out the videos but then be sure to explore the rest of the website, especially the "Meatrix Interactive 360"

The Meatrix

Some discussion points to consider: Do YOU know where your food is coming from? Are the conditions in which the animals you eat of importance to you? Do you worry about whether or not your food is (1) safe, or (2) healthy. Do you think the issues surrounding "factory farming" are legitimate or exaggerated?

The Local Harvest is in Full Swing

2011-05-27T10:42:00.009-04:00

In addition to the Salem Farmer's Market being up and running every Thursday from 3pm to 7pm (just a mile walk from our house), our own garden has begun to produce harvest worthy items.

Okay, admittedly, our tomato plants are looking pretty pathetic. We started them very early and they became tall and leggy as they waited in our not quite south facing window for the evening temperatures to climb up to above 50º F. When we were finally able to get them in the ground... they were flopping over and generally looking sickly. Then the wild rabbits found them, and though tomato plants are supposedly toxic to eat, the rabbits appear to be immune. So, we may have to replant some new tomatoes.

On the other side of the spectrum, our spinach, arugula, and swiss chard plants are growing so fast that we almost can't keep up with them. I'm dining every evening on tasty salad mixes with slices of our radishes mixed in. Our herb garden is now three years old, and we've got an over abundance of sage, thyme, oregano, lemon balm, chives, garlic, tarragon, lavender, and rosemary. Our dinners-no matter what we're eating-are always seasoned with fresh picked herbs and life has gotten quite delicious.

I can't wait for the peas, beans, zucchini, carrots, beets, cucumbers, (hopefully) tomatoes, watermelons, cantaloupes, acorn squash, buttercup squash, lakota squash, and sugar pumpkins to produce :)

In addition to what we've got growing in the garden, our red and black raspberry plants are about to bloom, our strawberries have finished flowering and are setting tiny green fruits, our lonely blueberry bush survived the winter, and the two peach trees we put in the ground at the beginning of April survived and have leafed out. They won't fruit for a few years, but when they do... OMG, there is nothing finer that a ripe peach plucked right off the tree.

Why are we homesteading at the Karch house? To sum it up, we care about our physical and mental health and we care about our environment. Home grown food is a known quantity. We know where it's coming from, how it's being grown, and what chemicals are or aren't being used on it. And we know how much fossil fuels are being used to grow it, water it, fertilize it, package and process it, transport it, and keep it cool until it gets to our plate. We could buy a share at a local CSA like Green Meadow Farm or Appleton Farm, but I and my husband feel that it's important for our children to see food growing and be involved in the process of getting it from seed to the dinner plate.

Disappointing News from Washington...

2011-05-14T08:07:00.003-04:00

Gas prices are on the rise. That's not news to any of us. Have you changed your behavior at all in response to it? Are you carpooling? Are you trying to cut down on unnecessary trips to the store? Are you opting to drive the more fuel efficient car rather than the SUV? Or are you just kind of sitting and watching events play out around you? Different people have different reactions when fuel prices rise, as they seem to do every year. They invariably come back down but always settle at a new, slightly higher low rate.

In our house, we purchased an old fashioned "reel" push mower--they type that uses no gas at all. I love it; it's no more difficult to use than our gas powered push mower (which is not self propelled as some models are). We're also expanding our vegetable garden so that we can have access to fresh locally grown (and therefore fossil fuel free) vegetables. Our response is to try and opt out of the yearly cycle of fluctuating (and every increasing) fuel prices. Slowly but surely we'd like to wean our family off of fossil fuels as much as we can. We have both short term and long term goals for going green.

But how is our President responding to the rising gas prices? Is he vowing to invest more money into research and development of clean and green energy such as solar, wind, hydro, or geo? No.

Here's a clip from a Washington Post article, and the link for anyone interested in reading the full article. I could rant for pages, but I will leave you to form your own opinions of the situation. I hope that you will post comments and share your thoughts and engage in a discussion of the politics involved in the environmental challenge that is our country's consumption/dependence upon fossil fuels.

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"WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama, under pressure from Republicans and the public to bring down gasoline prices, announced new measures on Saturday to expand domestic oil production in Alaska and the Gulf of Mexico.

High fuel prices have dented Obama's ratings in opinion polls and threaten to dampen the economic recovery that is critical to his re-election in 2012."

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/42706911/ns/politics/

_____________

Green Grub

2011-04-23T14:52:00.003-04:00

Check out this video that tells you 5 ways to be more sustainable (and delicious) in your kitchen!

Ecofriendly Eating

Green Cleaning Tips

2011-03-06T10:44:00.002-05:00

I've already posted about the cleaning super powers of simple baking soda and regular white vinegar. Now I'd like to add a third cleaner to the list: diet coke.

Here's my experience with it this weekend. When the Karch family grills outside, we like to use our cast iron pans and skillets, but when we pulled our largest pan out this morning (we planned to have an outdoor barbecue lunch) we discovered that it had rusted badly. No idea how since we don't wash them after using them and the one in question was well seasoned. In any case, the thing was coated in rust. Yuck! It looked like a lost cause (wish I'd taken a before picture so I had visual proof to back up this story).

Then I remembered a friend back in college telling me that he'd once stripped clean a rusted bike chain by soaking it in diet coke for an hour. 'Yeah, right," I'd though to myself at the time. But here I was staring at this once beautiful and much loved cast iron pan and I thought to myself, 'It certainly couldn't hurt the situation.'

My husband ran out to Walgreens and picked up a 1 liter bottle of diet coke and a steel wool brillo pad. He got the big chunks of rust off the pan with the brillo first and then poured half of the bottle of diet coke into the pan. We let the coke sit for two minute and then started rubbing the pan with the brillo. Five minutes later you couldn't even tell that the pan had been rusty. It was sparkling clean! I'm not kidding.

I wondered if diet coke would work on the rust around the drain on our ancietnt bathtub. I went inside, stoppered up the tub and poured a quarter of the diet coke that we had left in the bottle into the tub where it settled around the drain. Again, I let it sit for two minutes and then (gently) scraped at it with the steel wool brillo. To my amazement (and repulsion) our drain looks 1000 times better.

I had to share this trick with the rest of you. And for the record, I don't think I'm ever going to drink diet coke again.

Fresh Veggies on the Back Porch

2011-03-01T15:52:00.008-05:00

It's that magical time of year when certain members of the Pingree community start to get a gleam in their eye--planting season has begun. That's right! This past weekend was the first weekend for the dedicated gardeners among us to start planting our cool weather vegetable seeds. We sprout and raise them indoors for a few weeks so that they're ready to be put in the ground just as soon as it thaws.

There's nothing better than home grown vegetables. Not only are they YOURS (you're personally invested in their growth, which psychologically makes them taste better), but they're as local as you can get and they can be as organic (or not) as you want them to be. But for many of us, committing to a garden (even a very small one) isn't feasible (you might not have a yard or the soil in your yard is questionable) and it's inherently intimidating if you didn't grow up with a garden. So what's a wannabe gardener to do?

Enter "Bag Gardening." This is, hands down, the easiest way to grow your own delicious vegetables.

Here's what you need:
- One 40 lb plastic bag of topsoil ($1 to $5), and I know the bag is plastic but we've got to start somewhere, right?

- One packet of seeds (I recommend a nice salad greens mixture for your very first bag experiment).

- A 2 x 3 foot area of space that gets sunlight most of the day, such as your back porch (or front porch, whichever is sunnier).

Here's what you do. At the beginning of April put the bag outside where you want to grow your salad greens. Poke a bunch of small holes in one side of the bag with a screw driver (for drainage). Flip the bag over and cut the top portion of the bag off to expose the soil inside of it, effectively turning the bag into a container. Plant your lettuce seeds according to the instructions on the back of the seed pack. Water lightly (just enough for the soil to feel "damp" but not "wet." Fertilize if you like, but it's not really necessary.

Tah-Dah! In just a couple of weeks you will have a crop of delicious lettuce that was grown as local as local can get. Harvest at your whim, making sure to pinch off any flower spikes that try to grow. Yum!

Go on. Try it. Be the type of person who tries it out!

Ubran Farmer

2011-02-26T15:56:00.003-05:00

Okay, there is officially no excuse left for not growing your own fresh vegetables! Maybe even have your own fresh eggs every morning. Check this out! She's a little bit... odd, I'll admit. Still, I bet I'd have such an interesting conversation with her over dinner.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yYO4L2vegE&feature=player_embedded#at=260

Watch this video and then tell me what you think about it.

Ready to Go Electric?

2011-02-02T11:19:00.007-05:00

Chevy has the Volt. Nissan has the Leaf. Several other manufacturers have electric cars developed but are awaiting consumer reaction to these two electric cars before rolling out their own electric cars. Invariably, some of our Pingree students will be getting new cars soon. My question to our community is: if you are in a position (or if you find yourself in a position) to purchase a new car for yourself, would you consider going electric?

The Volt starts at $32,800 MSRP, give or take. It gets 40 miles per charge. Like all electric cars, it has very low maintenance costs. The Leaf starts at $26,200 MSRP, give or take. It gets 62 to 138 miles per charge (depending on how you drive it), and it also has low maintenance costs.

I'm hoping for lots of student comments on this post. What do you think? Would you or wouldn't you, and why?

Flying on Algae

2011-01-14T13:24:00.000-05:00

EADS, the parent company of Airbus, has made a successful test flight with a plane which was completely driven by fuel from algae. As airline companies and airplane manufacturers are looking for alternative fuels to aviation fuel because of rising oil prices and climate change, more and more test-flights are being scheduled with alternative fuels. It is not the first test that was done with fuel based on algae. In the past multiple test flights were held. What differs this one from all the rest is that this was the first test flight solely on algae-fuel.

The test flight revealed that algae based fuel is more efficient than conventional fuel. The company wants to have a regular test route in use by the year 2015 to further test with alternative fuels. The future goal of the company is to have at least one out of every ten planes fly on biofuels by the year 2030

2011-01-12T14:16:00.000-05:00

Solar stations in the heavens?

At an altitude of 22,240 miles above the earth, orbital solar stations would be one of the biggest steps undertaken for governments and energy companies. However, orbital solar stations would give a constant deliverance of sunlight, even more than 2,000 MW of clean solar power in some proposed projects.
Orbital solar stations have three advantages over normal earth based solar stations. First of all it must be daytime for an earth based solar stations to get its energy from the sun, next to that the solar array must be pointed towards the sun without any obstacles between the array and the sun. Finally, the sunlight powering the solar array must pass through the bulk of the atmosphere and the sky must be clear for optimal use. Because of all these factors an earth based solar array produces almost 80 percent less energy then orbital based solar stations. Furthermore, the sun shines continuously in space and because of the lack of an atmosphere, sunlight carries 35 percent more energy.

2011-01-12T14:10:00.002-05:00

Nanosolar’s solar cell
s, the green future technology?
Solar energy has been around for many years now. It is one of the best renewable energy sources as it is carbon neutral and low in maintenance once you’ve installed all the panels. The high manufacturing costs, however, and the high operational costs not to forget, have been the main factor why traditional energy sources haven’t been swapped in for clean solar energy. This is set to change though, as Nanosolar Inc. is leading the way to a more cost efficient solar energy source.
Nanosolar is a company founded in 2002 which is working on the world’s largest solar cell factory in California and has just finished the world’s largest panel-assembly factory in Germany. Nanosolar has succeeded in creating a solar coating that is the most cost-efficient solar energy source so far. They say that they can reduce production costs of a solar cell from 3 dollar a watt to 30 cents a watt. If so, Nanosolar’s solar cells will be cheaper than burning coal to generate power
This cost reduction was managed by using an innovative technology which coats thin metal sheets with a microscopic layer of printer ink which contains minuscule solar cells. With this formula the company has plans to mass produce these cost efficient solar panels. The plant which will manufacture these cells is being built as we speak and will more then quadruple solar cell production in the United States.The possibilities of these solar cells are enormous. Imagine if we put Nanosolar solar cells on all the roofs of the houses in a city. This would greatly reduce the need for grey energy once and for all.
Link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-7U6w38040&feature=player_embedded

The 'Arc' Eco Building of the Future

2011-01-11T23:27:00.000-05:00

I found this interesting link on yahoo that introduces a new concept in green innovation. It's a house that is part green and part indestructable. Here is the link:

http://news.yahoo.com/nphotos/Ark-Eco-Building-Future/ss/events/sc/011011theark

Solar Powered Cabins

2011-01-10T20:19:00.003-05:00

A man living in the mountains of Colarado saves himself teh trouble of connecting himself to the power grid and installs a solar powered system to supply his home with energy. Coppy and paste to see the video...

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/3044835/alternative_solar_energy_mountain_cabin_project/

Samsoe Island

2011-01-10T20:05:00.001-05:00

Samsoe: A role model in self-sufficiency

In just eight years, a broad collaboration on Samsoe has managed to convert the island’s energy production from oil and coal to renewable energy. Local involvement has created a bit of a social energy movement. Today, the island produces more renewable energy than it uses and exports excess energy to the mainland. Samsoe has an international lead as an energy-efficient research island, from which the Samsoe Energy Academy shares knowledge and experiences with the world.

2011-01-07T17:25:00.003-05:00

Ferrari Goes Green — Literally — With a Hybrid

Maranello promises the Hy-Kers concept will offer stellar performance along with improved fuel economy and emissions. It makes that point clear in calling Hy-Kers “an example of how Ferrari is approaching the development of hybrid technology without losing sight of the performance traits and driving involvement that have always exemplified its cars.”

“Ferrari’s goal was to offset every kilogram increase in weight by a gain of at least one horsepower,” the company said, and the power is coupled “seamlessly and instantaneously” with that of the 6.0-liter V-12 engine. Ferrari says the car runs under electric power under light loads or around town. Stomp the pedal and the gasoline engine takes over, with an assist from the electric motor to provide additional torque.

The obvious question is why a company known for glorious internal combustion engines would go electric. Simple: The rules require it to. The Hy-Kers concept is Ferrari’s first step toward meet new European Union fuel-economy and emissions regulations

Sony Ericson Green Phones

2011-01-06T19:37:00.001-05:00

Sony Ericsson has just recently bolstered its GreenHeart portfolio with the inclusion of an eco-friendly line of mobile phones, and a Bluetooth Handsfree. The phones, dubbed as Elm and Hazel, are made from recycled plastic and they do not contain any hazardous chemicals. Supplied with energy-efficient chargers and a battery that holds up to 10 hours of talk time in GSM mode or 3 hours of talk time in video mode, is impressive, to say the least.

Summing up their eco-credentials:

• E-manual in phone

• Free from hazardous chemicals

• Low power consumption charger (EP300 GreenHeart™)

• Green calculator

• Minimized packaging

• Condensed user guide (VH700)

• Waterborne paint (VH700)

http://www.greendiary.com/entry/sony-ericsson-releases-two-green-phones-and-a-bluetooth-handsfree/

2010-11-16T12:45:00.002-05:00

French photographer, Yann Arthus-Bertrand, has hit a home run with his documentary, HOME. Arthus-Bertrand traces the formation of the planet, the ecological balances, human interactions, and climate change with breathtaking images. He ends with positive steps and examples.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jqxENMKaeCU&feature=related

2010-11-16T11:23:00.001-05:00

Designer bacteria can heal cracks in concrete buildings

Genetically modified microbe produces special glue

Check this out at: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/40201539/ns/technology_and_science-green_innovation/

A Home for the Future

2010-11-14T12:01:00.004-05:00

Virginia Tech's Lumenhaus, which won the 2010 Solar Decathlon Europe, is a great model for the future of home design. The awesome thing about this house is that it's about more than just solar power. A smart grid and a passive cooling/geothermal heating system make this house a gem for the environment. Plus, it's a pretty cool place to live - who wouldn't want a house with moveable walls?!

Click here to take a virtual tour, and check out the Related Article for more information.

Thanks to Ms. Ramadan for showing us this article.

A Green City in the Desert

2010-10-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

In Abu Dhabi, they are creating a new city that has zero carbon impact! They have their own zero-impact transportation, use energy from the sun to supply energy, and take advantage of the winds to cool and freshen the air. I know I want to live there! I bet you will too, check it out! Link 1 is an article and Link 2 is a map and visuals!

Link 1 - Article

Link 2 - Map and Pictures

What you can't see CAN hurt you (Part 1)

2010-10-03T09:13:00.005-04:00

When I chaperoned Pingree's service trip out to the Rosebud Reservation at the end of June this past summer we purchased strawberries and blueberries and raspberries to have with almost every breakfast. I was usually up early on the trip and often helped prep the breakfast foods. I got a lot of strange looks from students each time I dumped that morning's berries out of their plastic containers and into a collandar and proceeded to wash them with soap and water. Often, someone would say, "I already rinsed them off."

Sadly, in this day and age, rinsing off fruits and veggies with running water is as effective at cleaning them of nasty chemicals as not rinsing them at all. Why? Because farmers are smart and pesticides are expensive. Imagine spraying your crops only to have the rain wash away your hard work one or two days later. The solution is simple--dissolve those chemicals in a liquid wax that will dry onto the fruit and is very water proof. Now when it rains, the chemicals stick tight to the fruit, held there in the wax. Occasionally, you can see this waxy coating on fruit when you buy it (yuck), but most of the time it's pretty invisible. Thankfully, a little bit of soap and warm water will cut right through the wax and take off the chemical coating. You just need to rinse the fruit well after you wash it.

Some crops are more susceptible to insect (and fungal) attack than others and need higher doses of nastier chemicals than others. Grapes, and all the berry crops fall into that category, as do bell peppers but I wash everything if I (or anyone else in my family) is going to eat the outer skin, including vegetables.

So what exactly are these nasty, invisible chemicals clinging to your fresh fruits and veggie? The pesticides are mostly in a class called "organophosphates," and they kill insects because they disrupt neurotransmitters. In other words, they destroy little insects nervous systems. Guess what: they do the exact same thing to our neurotransmitters, but because we have MANY more nerve cells in our brains, we can handle much high exposure rates than our little insect cousins without being killed. Good thing, too, because think of all the food you eat on a given day. Did it have wheat flour in it? That wheat was sprayed with organophosphate pesticides in the fields, and I'm willing to bet no one washed it before milling it into flour. Did you have sauce on your pasta? Those tomatoes (and all the herbs used to spice the sauce) were sprayed as well before being harvested and though they may have been rinsed to remove dirt and dust, they weren't washed to remove the pesticides. Mm, mm, mm. So... every day, you're mega-dosing yourself with all those chemicals that wreck neurotransmitters and kill nerve cells, but heck, you've got plenty to spare, right? And you feel just fine, right?

"Oh, it can't be all that bad," I can hear you saying. "You're blowing things out of proportion." Maybe. But I offer the following abstract of a pesticide dosing study that was conducted by Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington, USA in 2003.

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We assessed organophosphorus (OP) pesticide exposure from diet by biological monitoring among Seattle, Washington, preschool children. Parents kept food diaries for 3 days before urine collection, and they distinguished organic and conventional foods based on label information. Children were then classified as having consumed either organic or conventional diets based on analysis of the diary data. Residential pesticide use was also recorded for each home. We collected 24-hr urine samples from 18 children with organic diets and 21 children with conventional diets and analyzed them for five OP pesticide metabolites. We found significantly higher median concentrations of total dimethyl alkylphosphate metabolites. The median total dimethyl metabolite concentration was approximately six times higher for children with conventional diets than for children with organic diets; mean concentrations differed by a factor of nine. We calculated dose estimates from urinary dimethyl metabolites and from agricultural pesticide use data, assuming that all exposure came from a single pesticide. The dose estimates suggest that consumption of organic fruits, vegetables, and juice can reduce children's exposure levels from above to below the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's current guidelines, thereby shifting exposures from a range of uncertain risk to a range of negligible risk. Consumption of organic produce appears to provide a relatively simple way for parents to reduce their children's exposure to OP pesticides.

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Well, perhaps I am over reacting when I try to buy organic foods and wash all the non-organic fruits and veggies with soap and water, but I know that OP's are only ONE class of chemicals applied to our food crops. Fungicides, herbicides, petro-chemical fertilizers, antibiotics, and even artificial plant hormones are also coating our food. So, if a minute washing with soap and water could help me or my son or my husband or my unborn child not suffer from future neurological disorders or any other unforeseen health consequences then I'll happily take the odd looks, because what you can't see CAN hurt you.

2010-09-26T14:08:00.004-04:00

Pingree Green Report September 26, 2010

-On Thursday, September 23, there was a reduced impact day for transportation. There were 25 fewer cars on campus and 45 members of our community biked to school. Nice job Pingree!

-Kudos to Paul Sampson and his staff for using multi-use cups, bowls, and silverware and less disposable plastic and paper products.

-Composting in the commons is a success with lots of people putting their food scraps and paper napkins in the green bin which is picked up weekly and brought to a local farm.

The Pingree Cold Testing my Goals!

2010-09-25T18:10:00.002-04:00

Since late summer, I can proudly say that I've used almost no disposable paper products. My exceptions have been T.P. and paper towels in my classroom. Other than that, I've stuck with rags for cleaning, dish cloths, cloth napkins, and a handkerchief (sp?) for blowing my nose occasionally.

But now... I've caught the Pingree cold that's going around. My nose is running like a faucet, and my poor handkerchief is just not keeping up. Last night I rolled over in bed and thought that I'd started a raging bloody nose, only to discover that it was my nose draining. In desperation, I've had to turn to paper tissues. I feel awful every time I grab one, and I try to use them at least twice before tossing them, but that's hardly justification for abandoning my goals.

I guess I need to get a few more handkerchiefs, but I in my attempt to consume less resources, I've become uncomfortable with purchasing new things. What's a low impact girl to do?!

Car of the Future!

2010-09-24T17:42:00.002-04:00

Imagine going over 1,000 miles on one tank of gas. Don't believe it? Well, check out this car. It is an electrical three-wheel car that gets 200 MILES PER GALLON! Check out this video, you may drive this car in the future.

http://www.comcast.net/video/the-200-mpg-car/1597488181/Comcast/1597176617/

Hey Dude, "Cool" Roof

2010-09-17T18:39:00.002-04:00

Do you know that one of the best things you can do for the environment is paint your roof white? It's true! By painting your roof white, you can actually reduce the temperature inside your home by 15 degrees in the summer! But don't worry about winter, it actually has little impact on your home in the winter, since your house is covered in snow anyway. Don't believe me? Check out this website!

http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/39203683/ns/today-today_home_and_garden/

Smart House?...more like GREEN House!!

2010-09-13T21:52:00.002-04:00

Check out this interactive site about a new "green" style home. Not only is it hip and modern, but it is awesome for our planet. Take a tour through the home with Joe Wheeler and take a look at all of it's interesting features. Just click on the link!

A Home for the Future

Global Air Traffic

2010-09-04T17:17:00.003-04:00

The 48-second video below shows 24 hours of global air traffic during the northern hemisphere's summer. The US and Europe (as well as India and China) are teeming with activity! For a detailed analysis, visit this website.

Video from: http://www.flightglobal.com/blogs/flight-international/2008/12/24-hour-air-traffic-control.html

Thanks to Mr. Olson for contributing this video!

Personal Goals... have you formed any yet?

2010-08-31T18:44:00.005-04:00

As I read--no, devoured--my copy of No Impact Man, I felt personal goals forming deep in my brain. It wasn't a conscious process, but it felt like an inevitable consequence of reading about Colin's experiences; so much of the life philosophies he pondered resonated with me.

Above all others, two major personal goals rose to the top for me:

1) Stop treating resources as disposable.
2) Make my diet more sustainable.

I've already posted about how I began making my own yogurt at home. (If you've yet to try it, you're missing out.) I also started making my own bread from scratch. Now, making yogurt is EASY! I discovered that making good bread is NOT! It seems that success or failure mainly lies in kneading the dough. There are TONS of different "ways" to knead bread dough and the truth is, none is better than another (many people will vehemently disagree with that). Do a youtube search on "how to knead bread." You'll get a thousand videos. Chose a technique you like the looks of and use it. The real trick--the difference between success and failure--is learning what the dough "feels like" when you've kneaded it long enough. Most of the youtube videos will tell you what to look for and what to feel for, but I will warn you that you will be very, VERY tempted to quit kneading before it actually happens. Why? Because your arms are going to feel like they're about to fall off and you'll curse having ever tried this. Don't quit!! It might take you 10 minutes before the dough "transforms," or (if you're weak like me) it might take you 20 minutes, but KEEP GOING!!

It took me several attempts before I got a light, nicely risen, delicious tasting loaf, but now that I've figured things out, I don't think my family is ever going back to store bought bread. I use the recipe for "Milk Bread" taken from the Joy of Cooking. If you don't give up in the kneading process, it will be so worth it to try this for yourself! You can brag that you successfully made a delicious, all natural, non-digestively-toxic loaf of bread.

Okay, my second goal was to stop treating resources as disposable. You'll see me with my nalgene bottle for my TAP water around school this fall. I am consciously abstaining from drinking the Poland Springs water that was trucked to Pingree. I have my metal fork, spoon, and knife tucked into my desk drawer at school for days when plastic utensils are put out at lunch. I might even add a plate, but haven't decided about that yet. I made a whole bunch of cloth napkins for my family so that we could stop using paper napkins and paper towels at home, and I have one tucked away with my metal utensils at school that I will TRY to use every day with my lunch. Here's a pic of my cloth napkins, by the way.

That's a piece of zuchinni bread in the background.

My point in writing about all of this relates to No Impact Man in this way: I've decided to try to change MYSELF, MY behaviors. Rather than trying to get everyone else to "do the right thing" as it were, I'm going to choose my own goals and try out some solutions for myself. I urge everyone who read this book and felt it resonate to do the same. Don't wait to see what other people are doing. Brainstorm your own solutions and try them on to see how they feel.

Beware of the BAG!!!

2010-08-25T22:30:00.003-04:00

Here is a cool video about plastic bags. It is humorous, but the topic is no joke! Next time you go to the grocery store try to remember your reusable bags. By not using plastic bags, we can reduce so much waste with so little effort! The video is only 4 minutes and it has a lot of good information, so CHECK IT OUT!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLgh9h2ePYw

Going Green While Going Back to School

2010-08-09T19:48:00.002-04:00

I know it's only August 9th, but as you begin to think about school supplies shopping and getting ready for the new year, think green! Here are some products that are going to help you save the planet and start the year off right! Check them out! http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/green-school-supplies-2010?click=getstarted

Bottle Boat

2010-07-26T09:01:00.002-04:00

Usually when you think about plastic bottles in the ocean, you want to cringe, but yesterday a boat arrived in Sydney made out of over 12,000 plastic bottles! The crew of the boat made their journey across the Pacific to raise awareness about plastic waste in the ocean. The six member crew took the entire journey in 128 days. Check out this article about the adventure! http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20100726/ap_on_re_as/as_australia_bottle_ship

Bottled VS. Tap

2010-07-18T21:07:00.003-04:00

As the battle between bottled water and tap water continues, you want to stay as updated as possible. You want to make sure you are making the right decision next time you go for a drink. It is crazy to think that tap water is actually under stricter regulations than bottled water. This means that there is a better chance that you will drink contaminated bottled water while your tap water is cleaner and better for you. Here is a great article telling you all about this, and more.

Bottled Water VS. Tap Water: The Facts

Compost This!

2010-07-17T20:44:00.004-04:00

One of the major ways to reduce waste in your household is to compost! At my house, my family just started to compost just last month. One of the problems we had was figuring out what was able to be composted and what was not. After doing some research, I discovered this website which helped a lot. If you are interested in starting a compost pile at your house, check it out!

http://www.compostthis.co.uk/

A Nation of Farmers By Sharon Astyk & Aaron Newton

2010-07-06T20:09:00.006-04:00

Interesting read that states the world is past peak oil production and that food prices will soon increase due to the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides derived from petroleum. If we are to feed everyone, we will need to decentralize farming and go back to organic methods that worked for centuries. Vacant lots and backyard lawns will be tilled to bring people back to the soil. Interesting read. Check it out.

Are you starting to feel inspired yet?

2010-06-20T21:23:00.006-04:00

I know I am! Colin's writing style is smooth and compelling as he walks us through his successes and failures in his grand experiment. I have yet to visit his blog, though I have a million questions I'd like to ask him. I'm sure that there is a FAQ section that has been added, and I'll have to skim through it before pestering the poor man.

What I find that I'm loving most about the book No Impact Man is the general phylosophical musings dispersed between the descriptions of his project related actions. The big picture questions that he finds himself facing resonate deeply with me. My own copy of the book is now so completely marked up with underlines and margin notes that I have only to open to a random page and find something that struck me enough to underline it. For example: p. 89 "Back before the days of mechanized transportations and personal telephonic communications and coffee in to-go cups, there would be down time between the times of stress... between those things you'd get a break." "...the mechanized boxes that transport our brains from here to there and the portable electronics that keep us constantly connected have robbed us of the ho-hum." p. 113 "...our culture... keeps telling us... that we should spend our lives trying to get rich or struggling to acquire a really big house." Another one: p. 130 "I sometimes wonder if our lack of social connection and community is at the root of our environmental problems... if that lack has meant that I don't feel responsible or accountable to anything beyond myself. Without real community, where is the visceral sense of connection to something larger..."

Yes, many things in this book resonate with me, but his re-connection with food seems to be inspiring me the most. Not just the cooking-your-own-food-from-scratch aspect of it but also the descriptions of buying and eating local food. How has reading this book impacted my life and my family's life so far? Well, two days ago-for the very first time-I made yogurt! And let me just tell you that it was such an exciting and rewarding adventure... you've GOT to try it! You won't believe how incredibly easy it is and how amazing home made yogurt tastes compared to the stuff you buy in the stores (even the "gourmet" stuff).

What do you need?

Equipment: Two large pots that can nest in each other to create a "double boiler." You don't actually need two pots, but heating milk directly on the stove top is dicey. It's very easy to scald the milk and accidentally curdle it. Take that stress away by using a water bath. A big metal spoon for stirring. Don't use wooden as they're harder to get good and clean. A thermometer that you can dip into the milk and check its temperature. This too isn't strictly necessary, if you heat the milk to the point that it's starting to froth/foam, you've achieved the right upper temp, and if you cool it off enough so that when you stick your finger in it, it feels hot but not HOT it's cool enough. (Wash your hands before doing that, by the way, or you'll risk contaminating the culture.) A good old fashioned plug in heating pad (preferrably without an auto shut-off feature). A clean dish cloth. Sounds like a lot, right? But check out the photo below:

Ingredients: 1/2 gallon of milk (any kind you like). Starter yogurt (plain, with live culture). I chose to use Chobani as a starter because it listed 5 active cultures rather than just one or two and it has no filler ingredients. See picture below:

Ready?

1) Put the smaller pot inside the bigger one. Fill it with your milk. Carefully pour water into the bigger outside pot until the water level is at or slightly above the level of the milk in the smaller pot (you might want to use a cup to do this to control spillage).

2) Heat the water bath to boiling. If you've got a thermometer, heat the milk to 185 fahrenheit. This happens in... oh, maybe five or six minutes so don't walk away. Stir the milk occassionally with your metal spoon to ensure the milk heats evenly. No thermometer? Look for the milk to start getting frothy on the surface. Then, take the inner pot out of the water bath and off the heat.

3) Let the milk cool to 110-115 degrees fahrenheit (if you've got a thermometer) or until you can stick your finger in it and it feels hot but not HOT. Seriously, wash your hands first. You're a bacterial germ factory! It takes about 1 hour for the milk to cool down enough just sitting out on the counter.

4) Once it's cool enough, add three tablespoons of your yogurt and use your metal spoon to mix it in really well.

5) Find an out of the way place on the kitchen counter to plug in the heating pad. Set the pot on the pad and cover it with clean dish cloth. Set the heating pad to medium heat. Leave it over night. See image below:

6) In the morning, marvel at the wonder that is a thick pot of home made yogurt sitting on your counter! You can have a fresh bowl on the spot (as I did) to celebrate, but it will be a bit thinner and more liquidy than you're used to from the store b/c it's warm. If you stick it in the fridge for a few hours it really thickens up. It will also be plain and unsweetened, so flavor it as you like.

FYI: You will notice a thin, greenish liquid pooling on the top of your yogurt. No, you didn't contaminate it and you're not going to die of food poisoning. The liquid is called whey and it's SUPPOSED to be there. You can pour it off or mix it right back into the yogurt.

Try it! What have you got to lose? As Colin said on p. 182 "Do you want to be the type of person whose nature it is to try, or do you not?"

Go Green & Save Green

2010-06-20T20:38:00.003-04:00

Who says doing good doesn't pay? Here's the link to a story someone found online. It's about a woman living in New York who decides to live eco-friendly. By slightly tweaking her lifestyle, she is able to save over $10,000 a year. It has some great ideas that anyone can work into his or her life--so check it out!
http://shine.yahoo.com/channel/life/new-york-woman-shifts-to-green-saves-more-than-10-000-1723567

The Daily Green

2010-06-20T10:06:00.004-04:00

If you are looking for some current "green" news or a new organic recipe, this website has everything you need to stay updated within the world of sustainability. It has some great articles about the oil spill and some cool facts about green homes. Check it out!
www.thedailygreen.com

Perspective on Gulf Oil Disaster

2010-06-14T11:30:00.003-04:00

Check out this article by Tom Friedman in the New York Times that Mr. Filosa sent our way. It's an interesting and compeling way to view the oil disaster in the Gulf.
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/06/13/opinion/13friedman.html?ref=todayspaper

No Impact Project

2010-02-24T11:54:00.003-05:00

Check the No Impact Project especially the experiment option that will allow you into a one week program beginning on April 18th that helps you to assess and reduce your impact on the planet.
I'm hoping to get a number of people from the Pingree Community to sign up as a group. The web site is: www.noimpactproject.org

Gold, Silver, Bronze and Green

2010-02-20T15:45:00.003-05:00

In the past few decades, hosting the Olympics has become synonymous with construction, construction, and more construction. On top of that, the host city must house and feed hundreds of thousands of athletes and spectators while putting on a spectacular show. How is Vancouver doing in keeping green? Check out this article from Scientific American.
Canada also gets bonus points in execution for making this year's medals from reclaimed tech materials!

Green Websites

2010-02-10T10:45:00.003-05:00

Check out these websites my ethics class discovered during a recent project:

http://www.tomsofmaine.com

http://www.simpleshoes.com

http://www.ecobutterfly.com

http://www.oftheearth.com

http://mamasearth.com/green_shopping/2/Bed_Bath

The Good News About Paper Recycling

2010-01-24T08:37:00.005-05:00

Did you know...

More than 56% of the paper consumed in the U.S. during 2007 was recovered for recycling- an all-time high.

In total 54.3 million tons of paper and paper board products were recovered last year in the United States- approximately 360 pounds for every man, women, and child in the country, up from 233 pounds per person in 1900.

Every ton of paper that is recovered saves 3.3 cubic yards of landfill space.

Enough paper was recovered for recycling last year to fill 130 Empire State Buildings.

Since 1990, when the paper industry established its first recovery goal to advance recycling in the U.S., paper recovery has grown by more than 87%.
Source: American Forest and Paper Association

Although we have made progress, still almost half the paper produced is thrown away! Remember to recycle- even if it takes a little extra effort!

I'm dreaming of a GREEN Christmas...

2009-12-20T14:37:00.001-05:00

Holiday tips from the Sierra Club!

Have a green Thanksgiving!

2009-11-24T19:17:00.004-05:00

With Thanksgiving just two days away I wanted to post some tips to make it a little greener! Here they are:
1. Look for organic turkeys, fruits and vegetables, and if you really want to go all out, check out Tofurkeys!
2. Get creative with your plating- think squash soup served in the rinds you hollowed out to make it.
3. Find alternative (re: recycled) centerpieces for your table. Instead of the typical greenhouse-raised and pesticide-filled flowers, take some branches and fallen leaves from your yard and make your own arrangement.
4. As always, recycle and compost everything you can.
Give thanks to Mother Earth this year- she deserves it!

(Yep, that's a Tofurkey temporary tattoo.)

More on Bikes

2009-11-21T14:27:00.006-05:00

Jimmy's last post reminded me of way back in August when Emma, Kyle, and I attended GreenFest and Emma rode a similar bike.

This bike was made by a group called Maya Pedal in Guatemala. They turn bikes into machines such as mill/corn degrainers, water pumps, coffee depulpers, and metal sharpeners. At GreenFest, the group had the bike set up as a blender.

Green Hangout!

2009-11-17T21:23:00.003-05:00

Who said fast food couldn't be "green"? Daily Harvest Cafe on High Street in Danvers not only offers delicious sandwiches, smoothies and muffins, but is also helping out the green initiative. The use of biodegradable paper items and re-usable materials are just some of the examples of the Daily Harvest Cafe's ways of becoming environmentally friendly.

The Cafe uses local organic food instead of shipping in food from South America. Daily Harvest Cafe offers healthy, fast, and environmentally safe food!

Check it out!

Green Gears

2009-11-07T17:08:00.002-05:00

Dave Askins, of Michigan, created a new washer machine; ones that takes no energy or water. He created it around his stationary bike. He pedals to spin the wash and uses rainwater.

"This is a triple-win: Being clean, getting clean and getting exercise." -treehugger.com

Swine Flu- Hitting More than just Humans

2009-11-06T19:10:00.003-05:00

In light of the recent events I found some information about the effect the H1N1 virus has on the environment. Turns out it is huge, and hugely adverse.
The Food and Agriculture Organizations says: "Because of human and livestock population growth, changes in livestock production, the emergence of worldwide agro-food networks, wild animal trade, and significant changes in personal mobility, human populations increasingly share a global commons of disease risk, among themselves and with other animal species." Basically, large-scale agriculture is making us more susceptible to pandemics, because of the unsanitary practices used in these places and because we are getting this food from around the world instead of our own backyards.
The moral of the story? As usual, buy local! It's healthier for the environment, and for you.
(Check out this article for more info.)

Falling Leaves

2009-11-01T13:44:00.002-05:00

Every year we throw away 24 million tons of leaves and grass that could be composted!

So, this fall, instead of filling trash bag after trash bag with leaves and leaving them on the curb for the trash truck to pick up, start composting or find a place in your town or city that composts!

350 Around The Globe

2009-10-25T11:40:00.004-04:00

Sydney, Australia
Mexico City, Mexico
Great Barrier Reef, Australia
Cairo, Egypt
Almaty, Kazakhstan
For more inspiring pictures see www.350.org!

350!

2009-10-23T21:03:00.002-04:00

Thank you to everyone who rode today! The front circle was filled with bikes! Get excited for the next bike to school which will happen as soon as the snow melts in the spring!

Also, 350 is tomorrow, October 24, 2009! Celebrate by turning off the lights in your house, committing to composting and recycling, eating organic food, or attending one of the 4000 events happening world world wide (there is one at crane's beach!).

Here are a few examples of events happening tomorrow:

In Cambodia, citizens from across the country will gather at the famous Angkor Wat to take a giant 350 action photo.

In Hungary, hundreds of bathers will jump into the public baths in Budapest and do a 350 synchronized swimming performance.

In Nepal, over a thousand young people and monks will march to the Swayambhunath world heritage site temple where they will form a large 350 with traditional lanterns.

In the United States, 350 people will dance to Michael Jackson's Thriller in Seattle -- because if we don't stop global warming, we might as well be undead.

In Panama, indigenous youth will lead a moonlight vigil in Kuna Yala, their vulnerable low-lying islands off the coast of Panama, forming a 350 at sunrise.

SO GET EXCITED, GET INSPIRED, AND MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Props Mtv

2009-10-22T21:19:00.002-04:00

MTV SWITCH, an mtv website, is dedicated to new ideas(big OR small) to help the environment! They have different actions, videos, news and a carbon calculator. There is an open blog with everything from celebrity green gossip to green arts and crafts! Definitely check it out!

The Green Song

2009-10-22T21:15:00.001-04:00

100 Ways to Save the Environment

2009-10-21T19:31:00.003-04:00

If you are ever at a loss for everyday things that you can do to help the environment, check out this website that lists "100 Ways to Save the Environment"!

http://www.seql.org/100ways.cfm

Here are some ideas to get you started:
10. Unplug seldom used appliances.
13. Reverse your indoor ceiling fans for summer and winter operations.
27. Connect your outdoor lights to a timer.
59. Recycle printer cartridges.
88. Avoid products with several layers of packaging when only one is sufficient. About 33 of what we throw away is packaging.
97. Buy rechargeable batteries for devices used frequently.

"Making Waves"

2009-10-19T20:14:00.003-04:00

Maldives has committed to cutting CO2 emissions and is encouraging other countries to do the same!

The October 18, 2009 Boston Globe reports, "Maldives's minister of fisheries and agriculture, Ibrahim Didi, signed a declaration yesterday calling on countries to cut down carbon dioxide emissions. The president and ministers held an UNDERWATER cabinet meeting to draw attention to rising sea levels that threaten the Indian Ocean archipelago's existance."

"Green" Tea

2009-10-06T21:14:00.003-04:00

So today I noticed that my normal tea bag was missing the string and tag. Although I was first irritated by the idea, I went to the box for some sort of reasoning. Celestial Seasonings teas bags "is the result of [their] commitment to doing what's best for the environment." The natural fiber tea bags without the typical strings, tags, staples, or individual wrappers lets the company save more than 3.5 million pounds of waste.

So the next time you want to have a nice warm cup of tea on a cold fall day, look for Celestial Seasonings. You will be getting a delicious refreshment and be helping the environment.

tck, tck, tck.

2009-10-03T10:23:00.004-04:00

The clock is counting down on the time we have remaining in which we will be able to go on being wasteful and unaware of our effect on the climate. That's what the tck tck tck campaign is all about: "tck tck tck is a campaign created for everybody who wants to make a difference and influence the decision-makers to deal with climate change, and to commit to taking real action at Copenhagen 09." In Copenhagen this December there is going to be an international climate conference aimed at making new energy goals before the Kyoto Protocol expires in 2012, and tck tck tck wants to make this conference a groundbeaking one. They have made a music video featuring a whole bunch of starts, including Fergie and Serena Ryder (one of my personal favorites!) The song is available as a free download (check out the whole website while you're there, its really cool), and when you download you are signing one of the biggest online petitions in history. Here's the video.

THANK YOU BIKERS!

2009-09-27T08:50:00.003-04:00

We want to thank everyone who biked to school last Tuesday September 22! It was a huge success for our first Bike-to-School of the year! The bike count was over 50!

Another Bike-to-School is planned for late October. So, fix up all the bike problems you encountered on Tuesday or find a bike to borrow if your excuse was that you did not have one, so you will be ready to BIKE!

Japan's Taking A Stand

2009-09-23T19:55:00.002-04:00

Earlier this month, Japan's incoming prime minister vowed to aim for a 25% reduction in greenhouse gasses by 2020. Is this an ambitious goal or could Japan actually be making progress? Yukio Hatoyama believes that this is the way of the future: "Japan's change in government will bring a major shift to our climate change policies, through international negotiations for the future of human society, and I want to begin in a way that is said to have made a major contribution."

Whether too ambitious or not, let us hope that more countries will be setting goals like this is the near future.

The True Cost of Water Bottles

2009-09-22T14:20:00.002-04:00

Check out this article from National Geographic's website "Green Guide for Everyday Living". This great website has tips for many different ways for becoming eco-friendly. The tips range from vacation spots, to proper deodorants, to the best flat screen television.

This specific article is about the use of plastic water bottles. At Pingree, we all can start by changing our plastic water bottles to more eco-friendly aluminum ones.

Green Meadows Event!

2009-09-21T21:39:00.003-04:00

Is anyone up for an Environmental Club outing? A week from Saturday, Green Meadows is having a free event:

"Mercury Brewing Company's Ipswich Ale Festival at Green Meadows Farm

Saturday, October 3rd from 1:00 - 6:00 pm

Music, Great Food and Local Beer! The Orville Giddings Band will play, free popcorn, plus activities for the kids. Ipswich Clambake and Tennessee BBQ will provide food, and for the first time, White Farms will provide Ice Cream."

They are also having another one, 2 weeks from Saturday:

"Green Meadows Farm Annual Harvest Festival

Saturday, Oct. 17th, 11am— 3pm
We’ll have great music from Back Eddy Bluegrass plus excellent food, fresh baked goods and of course, organic produce. Hayrides, pony rides and the Farm's animals will entertain the kids, along with children's activities. Admission is free! "

Go Green With Us

2009-09-21T21:12:00.000-04:00

Just a heads up, the theme of this year's Topsfield Fair is "Go Green With Us". Its October 2nd through the 12th. I'm not sure what they are doing specifically yet, but i cannot wait to hear more!

We love movies!

2009-09-20T21:19:00.005-04:00

Meet the No Impact Man, Colin Beaven. He and his wife and daughter embarked on a year-long mission with the single and daunting goal of making absolutely NO IMPACT on the environment. He has written a book, he keeps a blog, and a movie has just been released about the no impact year. Check it out:

Reminders!

2009-09-12T23:07:00.002-04:00

As school starts up, PLEASE don't forget about all the green things you've been doing all summer! Keep recycling, especially printer paper, which is going to exponentially increase in the next couple of weeks. Remember to use the washable cups in the Commons when you can, and remember to bring your waterbottles to practices (they are available to everyone, so no excuses!) Finally, watch your peers! If you see someone making a poor environmental decision talk to them about it, and make sure they know what they should change.
Environmental Club is going to start up soon, so stay tuned!

Concern.Passion.Action

2009-09-03T10:53:00.003-04:00

Tactics of Hope is an organization that is guiding concerned individuals ways to help the world, environment and other people.

To get started, go to tacticsofhope.org

Be Rewarding

2009-09-02T16:13:00.005-04:00

Burning one gallon of gas produces roughly how many pounds of carbon dioxide?
How many barrels of oil does the United States consume per day?

What type of power is the fastest-growing energy source in the world?

If you want to know the answers to these questions and many more about environmental and human rights issues check out this website, Be Rewarding.

If you become a member (for free) you earn points every time you get a question right. You then choose which charity you want to give your points to, and that charity receives money!

Educate yourself about pressing issues in our world, give money to your favorite charity, and procrastinate all at the same time!

Washing Machine Magic

2009-08-29T11:38:00.005-04:00

"Are you tired of using harmful chemicals in your washer and dryer? Would you like an alternative that’s chemical-free, non-toxic, less expensive and gentle on the Earth… yet leaves your clothes really clean and soft?
Green Wash Balls for the washing machine and Magic Dryer Balls for the clothes dryer may be the answer!"

Reusable • No fragrances or dyes • Softens fabrics • Eco-friendly • Antibacterial • Easy to use • Hypo-allergenic • Non-irritating to skin • No spills • Detergent & chemical free • No plastic packaging

These washer and dryer balls are so easy to use and they are each good for about 1000 washes/dries.

To learn more about how the washer and dryer balls work and to order a set for your home check out this website

"Earth called. It says thanks."

2009-08-28T13:01:00.004-04:00

Planning on getting a new cell phone for the new school year? Check out the Samsung Reclaim, the first phone on the market made out of 80% recycled materials. It's wicked cheap, and some of the proceeds go to The Nature Conservancy's Adopt an Acre program! Best of all, it comes in two colors- green and blue of course!

The Black Hole

2009-08-26T19:23:00.005-04:00

At Green Fest, there was a simulation set up called the black hole. As you walked through the "tunnel" it got narrower and narrower. There were bottles, wires, batteries, and paper getting in your way and retorical questions causing you to think.

After you went through the "black hole," there was an open tent with pictures of nature and recycling and signs inspiring you to make a change while there is still time.

I think this would be a neat visual to constuct at Pingree one day where everyone will have to walk through it. Just one more way to get across to people that we need to make changes...and soon.

MassBike

2009-08-26T12:22:00.004-04:00

MassBike is a group that, you guessed it, works for the bikers of Massachusetts! They have 5 goals: "working for better laws; improving access and safety for bikers; educating bicyclists and those around them; encouraging commuting by bike; and getting people riding." In the interest of more Pingree bike-to-school days, I was thinking it would be cool to get a representative to come talk about some of these things- at GreenFest they said that they do stuff like find safe routes to school, which is important for some of our farther-traveling classmates. I know Mr. Furnari is talking with Colin Davis about doing an assembly for our first bike-to-school day of the new year, and it would be sweet to get MassBike involved too! Check out their website, and if anyone's interested in joining MassBike they have a student rate of just $15!

"The Promise And Limits of Local Food"

2009-08-26T09:54:00.002-04:00

I saw this article in the Opinion section of the Boston Globe. It describes the possiblity of increase of local food. The writer uses his knowledge of New England's history to set a realistic plan for future agriculture. Here is the link to the article and some excerps:
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/editorial_opinion/oped/articles/2009/08/26/the_promise_and_limits_of_local_food/

"Today New England’s population approaches 15 million, while only 7 percent of our land remains in agriculture. To come even close to feeding ourselves we would have to cut down a large part of our recovered forest - not something we want to repeat. But there are still good reasons to move toward more local food production. We need to determine which crops to grow here. What were we growing a century ago, when New England was already an urban, industrial society?"

"We need a targeted expansion in local production of foods that really belong in New England, tied to reforms throughout our global agricultural system - and certainly, some reduction of meat in our diets. This would bless us with healthier food, an attractive landscape, and opportunities for people to become more engaged with how their food is grown. Yes, we can shrink our carbon footprint, too, if we farm with that in mind. But in the end those connections, not some chimera of local self-sufficiency, are the real benefits of local farming."

GREEN FEST 2009

2009-08-24T16:33:00.006-04:00

This past Saturday (August 22, 2009) Emma, Kyle, and I attended Green Fest 2009 in Boston! There were booths about everything green from green building, to jewelry, to food, to art and so much more. We have way too much information to share with you all at once, so we will post all the information we learned over the next few weeks.

PEM's Trash Menagerie

2009-08-24T13:44:00.003-04:00

Until June 1, 2010, the Peabody Essex Museum will be displaying over 30 "improbable works of art" made from items otherwise destined for the dump. Items range from a super-sized bucket of monkeys display made of corrugated cardboard to an oyster shell made entirely of cigarette butts picked up from the beach to a centipede made of bundt cake pans and bicycle brake levers. There are also environmental facts painted on the walls as the museum tries to raise awareness about green living. I guess one man's trash IS another man's treasure!

More information can be found on the exhibit's website.

With the Swipe of a Card

2009-08-20T09:26:00.010-04:00

Next time you sign up for a debit or credit card, you may want to see if you can get a cause attached to it.

Bank of America has introduced an option on debit and credit cards called MyExpression Banking. It allows you to "show your passion" for a chosen organization or cause--and that cause can be environmental! Depending on the terms of the specific organization, for every purchase you make on your card, Bank of America will donate a percentage of your purchase towards your chosen recipient.

Some environmental options offered are:
Arbor Day Foundation
Brighter Planet
Defenders of Wildlife
National Audubon Society
National Wildlife Federation
Sierra Club
World Wildlife Fund

Happy spending!

350, Because the World Needs to Know

2009-08-18T17:47:00.003-04:00

Last night on the Colbert Report, Bill McKibben was interviewed. He co-founded this campaign, 350.org .

"Our mission is to inspire the world to rise to the challenge of the climate crisis—to create a new sense of urgency and of possibility for our planet.
Our focus is on the number 350--as in parts per million, the level scientists have identified as the safe upper limit for CO2 in our atmosphere. But 350 is more than a number--it's a symbol of where we need to head as a planet."

They decided that October 24th would be an "International Day of Climate Action". More than 1000 communities have already pledged to honor this day. Some schools are planting 350 trees, others are hanging banners and raising awareness. I was thinking Pingree could do something in celebration of the day, too! Since we have about 350 students at school, maybe we could encourage bike riding? Any other ideas?

Green Sports

2009-08-12T14:57:00.004-04:00

Ever thought about where your sports equipment comes from? Well, now that you have... check out Amazon's Fair Trade Sports catalog online! You can be sure that your soccer balls, frisbees, and sportswear are certified "green" and Fair Trade. In addition, all after-tax profits go to benefit children's charities such as Room to Read and the Boys & Girls Club.
Wishing you an active, green summer~

Better Batteries!

2009-08-11T18:45:00.004-04:00

Fuji Battery recently created "Environmentally-Respectful" alkaline batteries. They have no mercury, cadmium or PVC plastics. All of their resources, used in factories, are reused and recycled. They can also be put into normal waste systems.

"Our mission is to provide consumers with the best environmentally respectful solutions to their portable power needs."

Boston GreenFest 2009

2009-07-31T15:54:00.004-04:00

GreenFest: August 20-22, City Hall Plaza

"Free, three-day sustainability and cultural extravaganza presented by the Foundation for a Green Future. Learn about sustainability through art, music, discussions and interactive exhibits about eating and growing organic food, improving nutrition and health care, greening our city, building healthy communities, creating green jobs, and engaging in a sustainable, green economy." from Boston.com

more information here

Make the Right (Energy) Choice

2009-07-28T21:06:00.004-04:00

National Grid, the power company that proivdes for much of our area, offers an "Energy Choice" program which allows consumers to choose where their energy is coming from. Several of the options are condensed into the "GreenUp" program- a program devoted to renewable sources of energy. Your families can choose from a selection of local providers (with energy coming from a variety of sources including hydro, wind, biomass, and solar) and for a reasonable price can opt to get any portion of your monthly supply from these providers. It is a big commitment, but one that will make a huge impact. Talk to your families, and check out National Grid's website for details.

Energy from Algae!

2009-07-28T12:01:00.004-04:00

Exxon Mobil recently partnered with Synthetic Genomics, Inc. They are developing ways to harvest energy from algae as a fuel source for cars. Algae consumes high amounts of CO2, which would help reduce the amounts of greenhouse gases. Algae reproduce quicker and be more efficient to grow than crops like corn or soybeans.

Some algae biofuel facts:

Bio-oil produced by photosynthetic algae and the resultant biofuel will have molecular structures that are similar to the petroleum and refined products we use today.
If successful, bio-oils from photosynthetic algae could be used to manufacture a full range of fuels including gasoline, diesel fuel and jet fuel that meet the same specifications as today’s products

“We believe that biofuel produced by algae could be a meaningful part of the solution in the future if our efforts result in an economically viable, low net carbon emission transportation fuel,” said Emil Jacobs, ExxonMobil’s vice president of research and development.

Exxon and Synthetic Genomics are planning to continue their research and testing for the next 10 to 15 year and expecting to spend over $1 billion.

For more on algae biofuel.

Its a Wrap!

2009-07-24T09:46:00.006-04:00

Recently, I've been looking a lot at the Sierra Club's Green Tip Library. This one is my favorite tip. I have even gotten my family to follow this advice.

"Gift-giving is not an especially green activity – fancy paper and shiny bows get thrown out by the bagful, and some papers can’t be recycled. Instead:

Reuse colorful materials from around the house, such as maps and magazines.
If you use wrapping paper – or are given it on a gift by someone else – salvage the paper for future gifts and collect the intact bows. You’ll be saving dollars, trees, and landfill space."

Meatless Mondays

2009-07-20T20:32:00.004-04:00

Ghent, Belgium is now the first city in the world to encourage vegetarianism... at least one day a week, that is. Their Meat-free Thursday program requires local restaurants to offer at least one vegetarian option every Thursday, and schools and hospitals are on the way to adopting the practice as well. I think its an idea that should and will eventually catch on in the US- already 29 public health schools in the country are orchestrating meatless Mondays, and many other communities and groups are making green action plans that include initiatives for local and organic vegetables.
The evils of a meat-dependent world are endless: livestock farming produces more greenhouse gas emissions than all of the world's transportation combined (18% of the total vs. 14%); each kilogram of beef produced on Earth required 714 bathtubs of water; people who eat meat regularly are more likely to contract a variety of diseases, not the least of which is obesity; and I haven't even talked about cruelty to animals.
I'd like to suggest the implementation of Meat-free Mondays at Pingree- it will cut food costs for the school, make us a just a little more planet-conscious, and make everyone a bit healthier. Do you agree?

2009-07-16T23:30:00.003-04:00

Outside of The Prudential Center on Boylston Street, Bostonians have been amazed by the larger than life daisies. Sponsored by Prius, the flowers are solar powered and allow walkers to sit, charge their cellphone or computer, and wirelessly surf the web right in the middle of Boston! In addition to these solar powered daisies, every Thursday there is a Farmer's Market right outside the Prudential Center. People are going green in the most unexpected places!

"Transition" for our future

2009-07-11T17:45:00.002-04:00

I recently read about a sweet new environmental movement that has just taken off in the US after successful cultivation (no pun intended) in the UK. It is called the Transition movement, and it was started by a guy named Tom Hopkins, author of The Transition Handbook. The idea behind Transition is a break from the all too common scare and guilt tactics used by environmental warriors, instead emphasizing a climate (no pun intended) of optimism and togetherness. Community by community, Transition is trying to switch our oil dependence to a sustainable and resilient (a key word in Transition culture) alternative. Tom describes it best here:

Check out the Transition website to learn more about Tom, Totnes (the first and largest transition town), and the movement in general.

Roofs Reduce!

2009-07-11T00:54:00.002-04:00

Obama's Secretary of Energy, Steven Chu, found a simple solution to global warning: Paint your roofs white. Not only would these reflect light rays but heat rays too, reducing the need of air conditioning in the summertime.

"if you take all the buildings and make their roofs white and if you make the pavement more of a concrete type of color rather than a black type of colour, and you do this uniformly . . . it’s the equivalent of reducing the carbon emissions due to all the cars on the road for 11 years.” -Chu

full article

Going Green in Boston!

2009-07-11T00:30:00.004-04:00

Check out this website for great ways that Boston is going green. "Going Green" is a part of the WCVB-TV website and is full of informative tips and illuminating articles that cater to life in and around Boston. Another great thing about the "Going Green" website is that it also informs the reader on ways that he or she can save money! In this economy, we need to save as much green as possible!

Potato Famine Strikes Back

2009-07-10T18:51:00.003-04:00

Bummed because of this bizarre summer rain? New England farmers are too. According to these farmers and scientists, our local tomato and potato crops have been infected with the same bacteria, late blight, that caused the the Irish Potato Famine. Because of the low temperatures and constant rain, the bacteria is spreading rapidly. The bacteria only affects tomatoes and potatoes, so other crops are safe. It is not harmful for people and animals. Non-organic farmers are battling the fungus with fungicide, while organic farmers are trying to find other methods to fight it.

"It's just beginning to snowball, I expect by next week most farms will have late blight. Pathologists think tomatoes won't survive the season [if the constant rain continues]." - Jude Boucher, University of Connecticut educator

Article On Fugus in New England
Strategies to Fight Fungus

Yay Bundanoon!

2009-07-09T09:56:00.003-04:00

The rural Australian town of Bundanoon, near Sydney, banned the sale of plastic water bottles. The vote was almost unanimous at their town meeting yesterday. They are planning to sell reusable bottles for the same price, to replace the plastic ones.

"We're hoping it will act as a catalyst to people's memories to remember the days when we did not have bottled water...What is 'Evian' spelled backwards? 'Naive.'" -Jon Dee

To join the US's campaign, "Think Outside the Bottle", click here.

Red, White and Blue... and Green?

2009-06-29T21:33:00.004-04:00

On the Fourth of July, what's not to love? You've got hot dogs, fireworks, and patriotism galore! This year we challenge you to make your red, white and blue a little greener. Declare your food independence by sourcing ingredients for your holiday meals as locally and sustainably as possible. Buying local foods is good for our local farmers, our economies, our health, and our planet. Best of all, they taste delicious because they’re fresh from the soil.
A nonprofit organization from Maine called “Kitchen Gardeners International”, has launched the Food Independence Day campaign to encourage 50 states, 50 governors, and 50 first families to celebrate July 4th with locally sourced food. This group needs your help to ask your elected officials to eat sustainably this July fourth. To help you can pledge to join in the celebration of “edible independence” by eating healthy and delicious foods grown by your very own local farms, gardens and communities. To learn more click here.
Thanks to Nora for this tip, and HAPPY 4TH!!!

Every Step Counts

2009-06-28T19:34:00.002-04:00

Tropical deforestation accounts for 1/5th of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. Deforestation in the Amazon is fueled by the growing number of cattle ranches. Nike, Timberland, Adidas, Reebok and other brands have cattle ranches to produce leather for their sneakers. When you support the brands, you are supporting deforestation and the rising amount of greenhouse gas.

For more information, and to speak out against deforestation of the rain forests, click here

American Clean Energy and Security Act

2009-06-28T19:22:00.003-04:00

Last week, Congress passed a new bill, planning to cut carbon emissions by 80% by 2050. And also:

"To create clean energy jobs, achieve energy independence, reduce global warming pollution and transition to a clean energy economy."

More about the American Clean Energy and Security Act.

Newburyport Farmer's Market

2009-06-21T17:37:00.009-04:00

Need something to do on lazy Sundays this summer? Make it something green, and support local business at the Newburyport Farmer's Market. Local farmers, artisans and businesses have tents where they sell their goods, most of which are organic and/or sustainably made. In addition, bands from the area perform each week and environmentally conscious organizations often set up booths to educate and spread awareness. This week Pingree's very own Transparent Four performed, and the River Valley Charter School's Environmental Action Club had an info table (check out their blog here!) The Market takes place every Sunday of the summer at The Tannery (parking can be found across the street.) See their website for more details.

Here are some pictures from this week's market!

Jack Johnson

2009-06-19T09:20:00.006-04:00

Do you know what Jack Johnson is doing for the environment?

Currently, he works with or runs four charities to help endangered species and to educate children about the environment. Here is a site where you can learn more,
http://www.looktothestars.org/celebrity/474-jack-johnson

Check out Jack Johnson's song, "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle." He performs this song in both classroom settings to teach children as well as to a huge public audience.

Props to Tomas for sending us this information!

Think About the Trees!

2009-06-17T16:49:00.003-04:00

Here's a photo of one of the signs that have been posted along the driveway to discourage idling during the Pingree Camp pick-up line.

"Secretary of Saving the Planet"

2009-06-17T10:19:00.002-04:00

Pick up the June 25 Rolling Stone magazine (the one with Adam Lambert on the cover) to read about Steven Chu. Chu is a Nobel Prize in Physics winner and was picked as President Obama's Secretary of Energy back in January.

Here are some of his goals:
1) Smarter Buildings: He believes it is possible to cut energy consumption in buildings by a whopping 80%!

2) Better Biofuels: Chu wants to change our fuel to perennial grasses which packs double the energy content of corn.

3) Thinner Solar: He hopes to cover less than one precent of the Earth's deserts with thinner solar panels. This would supply the world's entire demand for electricity without producing a single ton of CO2.!

4) Living Batteries: As the technology becomes more advanced, batteries are becoming more stable and efficient.

5) Captured Carbon: Using genetically engineered bacteria, Chu hopes to capture CO2 from coal plants.

Ecorazzi.com

2009-06-16T18:42:00.004-04:00

We know everyone here loves the earth. Now I'm going to be honest- I'm also a sucker for a gossip website, and I'd be willing to bet that most of you are too.
Meet the best of both worlds: Ecorazzi.com.

Perez Hilton + environmentalism. It's a beautiful thing.

More on Food

2009-06-12T21:48:00.003-04:00

In their June 2009 issue, National Geographic had a special report on food called, "The End of Plenty: Special Report: The Global Food Crisis."

The whole article can be found here. If you don't have time to read the really long article, look at the picture gallery which tells the story pretty well.

Fun Facts (or just scary):
The corn used to make a 25-gallon tank of ethanol would feed one person for a year.
35% of the world's grain is used to feed livestock instead of people.
The United States' per capita meat consumption is more than twice as high as China's.

Food Inc.

2009-06-12T13:49:00.003-04:00

Here's the trailer for the new Robert Kenner documentary "Food Inc." This "unflattering look inside America's corporate food industry" is in limited release right now, but hopefully will be available at a theater near you!