Keep Old Windows In Place, Yet Still Increase Energy Efficiency

We’ve all heard that replacement windows are the way to go if you want to increase the energy efficiency of your home and building (and reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with generating energy).  While it’s true that they will reduce heating and cooling bills, the up-front investment may not be in the budget.  However, there […]

Green Makeovers for Kitchens and Baths, Part 1

Whether you’re on a tight budget or not, there are plenty of eco-friendly ideas you can implement to give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new look.  In this first post, we’ll take a look at inexpensive, green fixes for these spaces — from decorative elements, to energy-efficient  and water-saving strategies that will save you […]

Tour Green Homes in North Carolina this Fall

Looking for something fun and interesting to do on Saturdays next month in the Tar Heel state?  The North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association will once again host its annual Green Building & Solar Tour, in which everyday citizens can get a first-hand look at a wide variety of earth-friendly homes, buildings and renewable energy projects. […]

Renew Your Backsplash with Recycled Glass Tiles

Looking to add a dazzling, yet functional, new backsplash to your ordinary kitchen or bathroom?  One eco-friendly option is to use recycled glass tiles since discarded glass takes hundreds, if not thousands of years, to decompose.  Tiled surfaces are durable, long-lasting and easy-to-clean, plus they work well indoors and out.  They’re perfect not only for […]

Make Your Home More Efficient this Fall

As cooler temperatures start to set in this Autumn, it’s a reminder that we’ll soon be spending more time indoors.  To increase your home’s efficiency and comfort levels in the upcoming winter months, there are a few things to keep in mind.  All around the home, from the heating system and the fireplace to insulation […]

Fall Fix-Ups for the Yard, Part III

Autumn, with its pleasant temperatures and colorful beauty, is a wonderful time of year to enjoy the outdoors.  It’s also the perfect time to get out in the  yard to plant trees & shrubs, and of course, rake leaves. In previous posts, I covered “Fall Fix-ups” for the lawn and garden, and here, woody perennials […]

Tour Innovative Homes at the Solar Decathlon

In this exciting event, hosted by the U.S. Department of Energy, 20 college and university teams compete to design, build, and operate the most attractive and efficient solar-powered house.  The homes are solely powered by the sun and are prime examples of the latest renewable energy technologies and artful design.  They will be displayed on […]

Surplus, Salvaged and Green Building Materials

Planning a weekend home improvement or remodeling project?  It’s a perfect opportunity to use salvaged and surplus building materials.  Green building warehouses and architectural salvage yards are popping up across the country and are full of interesting, new and used items.  These building elements have been donated by local businesses and residents, as well as […]

Party for Parks

Our national parks are full of splendor and beauty, and inspire visitors to want to protect these magnificent, natural treasures.   The Sierra Club welcomes those who want to help celebrate and preserve our great parks for generations to come, with “Party for Parks” events across the country on September 20th. The non-profit organization will provide […]

Fall Fix-ups for the Yard, Part II

In part one of my series on “Fall Fix-ups”, I covered eco-friendly lawn etiquette.  Here, bulbs and flower beds will be the focus.  Of course, to keep it green, the use of native plants is highly encouraged.  By planting native (non-invasive) flowers, you’ll provide the proper nourishment for native birds, bees, butterflies and other pollinating […]