Lifestyle

When I first heard about the Hunger Games, I had my doubts. But when my ‘too cool for YA” BFF demanded that I read the series, I reconsidered. Although the book doesn’t state the exact event, major landmasses shifted and the sea level rose to unknown heights to change the Earth’s landscape we know it which develops Panem into its current state.  Does Collins use any of the Hunger Games themes or district circumstances to address our current environmental issues?  Let’s explore further, after the jump.

Sure, utilizing reusable bags is a bit of a tired topic. But, why are more and more retailers taking advantage of them? Simple – free branding! (And, hopefully environmental consciousness…) Local retailers, take a cue from companies like Urban Outfitters...

If you're a slacker like me, you haven't filed your taxes yet. Make the process a little greener: Try using a program like TurboTax or H&R Block to file your taxes online.  Spare a tree by saving a copy to an external hard drive or flash USB drive.  Or, store the document on a secure place online. If you really need to print out a copy, utilize recycled paper. Also, if you're a homeowner: BONUS! You may qualify for some Energystar energy efficiency-related deductions. It can literally pay to be green!

This Friday, we're asking you to go for the Bar! (of soap.) Over the past year, I’ve swapped liquid body wash for the bar variety.  It’s less expensive and saves packaging waste. Plus, all of that water IN the liquid wash uses… you guessed it, more water.  (More water = more weight & energy = increased fuel costs for transportation) Supposedly the average bar of soap lasts for 20 showers (vs. a 16 ounce of body wash is 80) – Although body wash costs more than 4 x’s the bar. (However, my bars of soap seem to last literally for 30-40 showers.)

Have a family member or friend that refuses to kick an ugly not-so-green habit? For their next birthday or holiday, casually give them a greener option. Have a friend that goes through Starbucks coffee cups like cigarettes? Maybe your sister uses bottled water at the gym? Purchase aluminum water bottles, coffee mugs, or grocery totes to give to the perpetrator.  With so many varieties available, you'll definitely find something that fits his or her personality. Try browsing Philly's Big Green Earth Store or Olde city/Midtown boutiques for earth-friendly finds. Plus, the gift of green... keeps on giving! :-)

Ever wonder what you can recycle next? As we've mentioned before, "going green" is rarely an overnight process.  Feel stuck in your progress?  (Find out more, after the jump!)

While we've previously given you advice to green your valentine's day, here's another tradition to consider: flowers. Our advice? Ditch the roses. Valentine's Day roses are not only pricey, but often come with hefty carbon footprints after being flown from far distances, having  been plucked from pesticide-filled fields.  There's nothing  that says "I love you"  more than chemicals filling one's nostrils on a romantic holiday, right? Instead, (find out more, after the jump!)

Don't feel guilty using your microwave for simple, on-the-go meals. Cooking & reheating using the microwave is not only fast, but more energy efficient than using your stove-top or oven. You'll reduce energy by up to 70% when you prepare small meals this way. In the winter months using the microwave can help contribute to warmth in the kitchen - making it easier to avoid turning up the thermostat. Speaking of energy... did you know

Happy Tu B'Shevat to our Jewish friends, friends who believe in the Jewish son of god (Jesus) or any religion! Luckily my good friend Steph enlightened me: Tu B'Shevat is the New Year for Trees to the Jewish faith, or the cut-off date to calculate the tree's bday. (Find out more and how you can celebrate, after the jump!)