Articles Written by Beth Funari

Filmmaker Josh Fox of the critically acclaimed and Oscar nominated documentary, "Gasland", comes to Franklin Commons Wednesday September 7that 6:00 pm. The public is invited to join Fox and legislators for an important discussion regarding the dangers of hydraulic fracturing (“fracking.") Fracking is a means of natural gas extraction that involves millions of gallons of water, sand, and undisclosed chemicals being injected under high pressure into the ground. 205,000-935,000 pounds of chemicals are used per frack per well and scientists have identified many carcinogens, including benzene, in gas drilling waste. The event at Franklin Commons in Phoenixville, PA will begin at 6:00 p.m. and include (read on after the jump!)

Many people associate weekends with yummy homemade breakfasts that we’re all just too busy for during the week. This weekend put aside your toaster pastries, frozen Eggo waffles and tired oatmeal and make these homemade blueberry vegan pancakes or waffles. Blueberries have just a few more weeks in season so get 'em while they last! Read on for my super simple and delicious recipe for vegan blueberry pancakes:

Sometimes you hear a story about someone who has faced adversity and not only risen above their challenges but done something good because of them. Stories like that are inspiring, and have a way of putting things in perspective. In my eyes this is one of them. Alex Elman lost her sight at 27 years old due to complications from diabetes. Her loss of one sense helped heighten another - taste. She discovered she possesses an exceptional palette for wine tasting. Read on after the jump!

GPB reader, Jack asks... Q: I see the term “fair trade” on products. I know this is a good thing but what does fair trade really mean? A: The term fair trade refers to the movement that helps farmers or producers experience better trading conditions. Essentially, the approach focuses on exports coming from developing countries to developed countries and emphasizes paying the producers more (and more fairly.) Read on!

The summer heat can mean increased costs to stay cool in your home. Here’s a reminder about a program that may help fatten your wallet. EnergyWorks, funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, is offering deeply discounted home energy assessments to homeowners to improve the energy efficiency of their homes in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties. EnergyWorks combines all available rebates, tax credits, and low-interest loans with the expertise of certified building analysts and qualified contractors to make home energy efficiency upgrades more affordable. How does it work?

When it comes to saving paper … here’s an oldie but a goodie . Say ‘no thanks’ to receipts from the ATM,  the coffee shop, cabs, drug stores – anywhere you can! I try to let the salesperson know I...

In the summertime I get the urge to eat out more. The longer days and opportunity for al fresco dining (one of my favorite little pleasures in life) just make restaurants that much more enjoyable for me. I frequent establishments that boast the use of organic and local ingredients, along with lots of vegan and vegetarian hot spots. But, I also head to restaurants that aren't necessarily well known for any of these things. While dining I’m often on the lookout for how restaurants measure up in the eco-friendly department. Here are some practices that help keep businesses in the food industry greener. Don’t be shy - suggest some of these next time you’re at one of your favorite spots. Green restaurant practices:

With my pending nuptials less than two months away (how did that happen?!) I've been thinking a lot about how to decrease waste at our wedding. Between the save-the-dates, invitations, programs, place cards etc. there's a lot of paper involved for just one day! Some in the green community suggest going completely electronic and sending e-vites in leui of wedding invitations. Why didn't I go this route?

Here’s a recipe for Stuffed Peppers using mostly seasonal ingredients that’s vegan and oh so delicious. It’s one of my go-to’s when I’m not sure what I want to have for dinner. It takes a few pots and pans but is simple, and you can even make it ahead and pop in the broiler or microwave to enjoy later. Try it for dinner tonight!