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Did you know that high temperatures reduce the efficiency of solar panels? The typical way of installing solar panels on a bare roof actually contributes to a decrease in the amount of electricity the panels can generate. In Germany, companies like Green Roof Technology have been pioneering living roof systems that incorporate solar PV systems with green roof technology to create environmentally friendly roofs that offer the best of both worlds — living roofs and solar electricity generation. (more…)

Electric Cars and the Energy Grid – Five Facts to Combat Hybrid Car Charging Myths

By Deb Powers

Just a few years ago, the idea of electric cars was met with complete skepticism. Oh, sure, people said, the technology is there to make the cars, but drivers aren’t going to buy a car that can only drive 40 miles before you have to plug it in. The argument hasn’t changed much even as ranges increased in mileage. Now that hybrid electric cars are in the mainstream — and their acceptance is growing with each passing day — the conversation is turning to the next hurdle in the acceptance of electric cars. Where the heck do you plug them in to recharge? Here are five facts that help answer that question. (more…)

Creative Up-Cycle Ideas For Home Design

By Danna Powers

Upcycling is trendy, green and economical, but all too often, upcycled projects look – well, upcycled. We’ve all seen those oh-so-crafty projects that use old CDs to make artwork on the walls, or repurpose old sweaters into sofa cushions. While some of them look great in any apartment living room, the typical “saved from the trash” decorating project really does look like it was saved from the trash. It doesn’t have to be that way!

It is possible to turn trash into treasure that really looks like treasure. It takes attention to detail and a careful eye for professional finishing of your project. These tips will help you create beautiful furniture and design accents for your home from throwaways that you find in your own garage or at a local yard sale. (more…)

Artwork From Old CDs – 5 Ways to Upcycle Those Old CDs Into Something Beautiful

By Deb Powers

What do you do with those old CDs that you can’t use anymore? There’s a long tradition of making art from old CDs dating back to the days when AOL shipped out millions of CDs to mailboxes all over the country. CD arts and crafts have become even more popular as the importance of recycling has grown. Check out these ideas for making art from old CDs. (more…)

Living a greener life is not only good for the planet’s health, it’s good for your health and the health of your family. Maintaining a bright green kitchen – in terms of energy efficiency and energy use, not color – can reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also help you feed your family a healthier, more delicious diet. The way that you shop, cook, serve and clean up after serving meals all contribute to creating not just a healthy kitchen but a bright green kitchen. (more…)