In an effort to reduce plastic packaging and overall waste, I’ve been trying several different new eco-friendly laundry detergents in order to weigh performance, cost, and waste reduction between different brands and types of detergents. I’m using three different types of detergent: Method For these tests, I’m using our own front-loading High Efficency (HE) washing machine, one that uses less …
Eliminating Waste in Packaging – Laundry, Dishwasher & Hand Soaps
There have been so many cool new innovations recently in packaging reduction and the re-imagining of how to deliver products to consumers, most notably in the cleaning and detergents category. Many have led the way into more environmentally friendly cleaners, like Method, Vaska, and Seventh Generation; and building on that is a new generation of cleaning products that come without …
Natural Kapok Fiber Body Pillows
I was recently offered a body pillow set from Tree Hugger Pillows to review, and the timing couldn’t be better. With my wife 5 months pregnant, a body pillow is a comfort she couldn’t resist. This got me thinking though- what makes a pillow eco-friendly? It’s all about the fill. Even though I hadn’t heard of it until recently, Kapok …
Eco Friendly Home Insulation – From Farm to Walls
Most of us are aware that adding insulation to our home’s walls, roof, and attic essential in reducing energy usage and associated costs. But, the insulation materials we choose can also have a direct impact on the environment as well as on our home’s indoor air quality. There is much more to insulation than its R-value (how efficient the material …
Your Personal Farmer – Farmscape Gardens
Ever wanted a personal or private garden? If you have the space, they will come… personal farmers that is. Farmscape Gardens is already in Los Angeles, and coming to San Francisco. Creating a personal food garden has never been so easy, even if you don’t have a green thumb, or think you don’t have the space. Farmscape Gardens will come …
Where Does Bio-Plastic Go, Compost or Recycle Bin?
Corn plastic, otherwise known as polylactic acid (PLA), is rapidly replacing traditional petroleum based plastics for food containers, utensils, disposable cups and more, but how do you dispose of it? It is common to find a recycle symbol printed or molded into the container, and many also promote that the item is compostable or biodegradable. So what is the most …
Third-Party-Owned Community Solar is First Choice
A typical 3kWp (kilo Watt-peak) solar system, which produces about 2 500 kWh of electricity annually, or the equivalent of two thirds of a typical American household`s consumption, will end up around $15 000. There is no doubt that purchasing solar panels turn off a lot of homeowners because of the high upfront costs and home insurance. In the last …
Five Cheap DIY Energy Saving Tips
Looking for ways to save some money? Energy conservation is a great way to reduce your energy costs and save money (and the environment). Here are 5 easy do-it-yourself (DIY) energy saving tips you may not have thought of. Insulation and Leaks – A huge way to reduce your heating and cooling bills is to reduce the air flowing out …
Water Saving Shower Heads by Oxygenics
I am sure everyone has been frustrated with water saving shower heads at one time or another. You know, the ones you struggle just to get wet under, or just feel like a mist, leaving you longing for the full stream water wasters that your drain couldn’t keep up with. Luckily those days are over and good engineering has resulted …
How Will Solar Panels Affect the Cost of My Home Insurance?
Almost everyone will want to have cheaper electricity which provides both an endless supply and is also good for the environment. A great way of achieving this is by purchasing and installing solar panels on your home; a great step towards reducing your carbon footprint. Purchasing solar panels has become more and more popular within cities, villages and the suburbs …