Lifestyle

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!)

1.3 billion tons of food is wasted globally each year... Or more than 200 LBS per PERSON! (yes, you!). How many times do you overestimate how much food you can eat and end up throwing it in the compost (or jawdrop: trash!) Although it’s something we hear again and again, taking less portions is better for your waistline… AND less food for the landfill. Eating out? Split a meal with your dining partner or set aside half the meal to take home for later. Assessing your pantry & fridge inventory BEFORE a trip to the grocery store will also save you from buying too much food and help you stick to the bare minimums. Readers, any other tricks to eat & waste less?

In response to the youtube sensation Shit Girls Say, we've created our own meme take on those eco-friendly freaks. Shit Green People Say. Go ahead... point fingers at the greenies in your life... (or in our case, yourself!) Readers, what shit are you sick of eco-friendly people saying?

One thing I enjoy about being a green activist and blogger is my belief in the value of a sustainable lifestyle is often reenergized by the efforts of others. Lately I’ve been giving thought to the zero waste home – as the family behind the concept continues to garner well-deserved press. The Johnsons of Mill Valley, California are the zero waste family. The Johnson family’s primary goal is to avoid bringing anything into the house that must eventually be discarded. Read on!

Most people are unsure how much energy their household actually uses. Whether it’s good or bad news – you’ll learn something! Schedule an energy audit to learn more about your energy habits.  Chances are you’ll be motivated to make changes...