Quick Tips

It's part of our mantra, but we'll tell you again: Take the greener route this summer. Summers an amazing time to take advantage of vacations, near & far, but public transit can get you a lot further than you think. Headed to Atlantic City to gamble or the South Jersey shores? (Find out your boatload of public transit options, after the jump!)

Hot enough for you Philly? Make the best of that HOT sun outside and use... solar energy to charge up your goods!  Solar backpacks and chargers are

I'd be hardpressed to think of a time when grilling is more appropriate than the week surrounding the Fourth of July. Something about bbqing feels ultra American and festive. So, get your grill on but don't forget these eco-friendly tips. (Read on after the jump!)

We've all heard it before: - Air conditioners "work" harder when they're cooling down your house after a hot day ... But it's (True? False? The anticipation is killing me... so just click through & find out, after the jump!)

It's getting H-O-T outside... which means the city is full of window units & central air running to keep us cool. Did you know you should be cleaning out your AC filters at least a few times per year? Poorly maintained filters cut your AC's efficiency, wasting precious energy... and therefore raises your electricity bill. Don't fret friends...

Have you ever thought about what your shower curtain is made of? Did you ever take a whiff of a new vinyl shower curtain? (I admittedly used to like that smell - odd I know.) Well, I now know that "new" fragrance is a result of the off-gassing from polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC.) PVC can contain toxic chemical additives like DEHP. Health experts report that exposure to these chemicals should be limited. This study found that high levels of DEHP are contained in shower curtains, and have been linked to asthma and brain development issues for children.

Memorial Day weekend calls for shaking off stress, enjoying friends and family, and perhaps a delicious cocktail (or two.) This recipe for a refreshing, seasonal blueberry mojito will start your long weekend off on the right foot. Bonus: it's fairly low calorie, and simple to make! Click through for the recipe.

The average American generates 4.6 pounds of trash per day. 2 1/2 lbs goes to landfill and the remainder is recycled or incinerated. Before putting something in your trash can or taking it the curb, think about possible sustainable you can implement.  Try purchasing reusable dish rags over sponges, or towels instead of the paper version. You can even challenge your household: Set one small trash bin out for each member of your household, and see who has the most in it each week.  The loser takes out everyone's trash for one month. Readers, what can you change in your household?  Please share in the comments.

As you know from my locavore kick, you can reduce your carbon footprint and get fresher, tastier foods when sourcing locally. This Mother's Day, try planning an all-locally sourced meal!  Whether free-range omelets or seasonal fruit pancakes, you're sure to put a smile on Mom's face. Find delicious meat-free options like these Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins or veggie brunch ideas. Check out other ways to green your mother's day!