My Green Adventure

The Search for a Eco-Friendly Computer

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:55:49 +0000

It is time for a new computer. Not for me, I love my lean, green Macbook Pro, which is actually one of the greenest computers around. Let me explain. An organization I belong to is in the market to purchase another laptop. Nothing fancy, and in fact all it needs to do is be reliable, lightweight, very portable, inexpensive and eco-friendy. This computer will get hauled all over the place, used by many people, some tech savvy and some not. It is mainly going to be used for an Excel payroll program that was created especially for the group. Unfortunately, the program was written for a PC, and cannot be used on a Mac, so that ruled out all Apple products, including their line of great Refurbished Macs. Which got me to thinking…what are some eco-friendly solutions to our computer hunt? With that in mind, I set out to discover some green options for computers in general.

What is the greenest computer to buy? Actually the greenest one is the one you already own if it can be upgraded to a newer operating system. Mac is a great supporter of this idea, and I am sure many PCs can be upgraded as well. Not only is the cost of doing this a fraction of the cost of a new computer, it also has a smaller carbon footprint by saving on carbon emissions used in production, transportation and packaging.

Sometimes, the computer is just too old to be upgraded. Or, you may not even have a computer to upgrade. What then? Obviously, the more eco-friendly option is a laptop over a desktop. Smaller, much lighter, more compact, the laptop uses less packaging, electricity, materials for construction, etc. than it’s larger, more cumbersome counterpart.

Even though the idea of a brand new computer in a pristine box can be enticing, it can also be pricier than the refurbished ones. Refurbished computers are the greener option, and there are many good refurbished laptop options in many price ranges. Where to find one? Many places sell refurbished computers, but the most reliable are ones directly listed on the major computer brands’ websites because they generally offer a warranty. In the case of the Mac, Apple offers the following;

“APPLE CERTIFIED REFURBISHED – Fast free shipping on all refurbished products. We test and certify all Apple refurbished products and include a 1-year warranty.”

Other brands also offer this kind of protection:

DELL OUTLET - “Great value. Fast, free shipping. Environmentally responsible. Same as new warranty and support.”

SONY, TOSHIBA, SAMSUNG, and many others, offer many options as well. Simply go to the company’s site and search for “refurbished laptops.”

If you must buy a shiny, brand new computer, look for ones that are more environmentally friendly. There is now a rating (besides the Energy Star rating that appears on many products) Mother Nature Network explains:

“Green Electronic Council’s EPEAT program evaluates electronics, specifically laptops, desktops and monitors, based on their environmental attributes. EPEAT differs from EnergyStar in that while low energy consumption is required (in fact, a EPEAT computer must also be EnergyStar certified), additional focus is placed on the materials used in manufacturing, packaging, recyclability, and other standards that take into account the entire lifecycle of a computer.

For example, a computer sporting EPEAT Bronze, Silver or Gold certification will contain minimal levels of toxic components like lead, mercury, brominated flame retardants, PVC and cadmium and have parts that are made from post-consumer recycled plastic or renewable, bio-based materials. Sony, Samsung, Hewlett-Packard and Dell all lead the way when it comes to EPEAT certification. And according to EPEAT, the environmental benefits of buying an EPEAT rated computer are vast. The organization says that consumers who purchased EPEAT computers in 2009 helped to prevent the disposal of 72,000 metric tons of hazardous waste and save over 10 billion kWh of electricity which is enough to power 900,000 homes in the U.S. for a year.”

One of the best things I discovered was that people used to choose a computer based on price, size (inside and out) and style. Now they are also looking at the sustainability factor and having that be a decision point for their purchase. The companies are listening, and responding in ways that are kinder to the environment. I consider that a great big green step forward.

Stop Cluttering My Mailbox

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 05:47:22 +0000

If you are anything like me, your mailbox gets inundated from time to time with unwanted mail. Lots of it. In the last week alone I have gotten a magazine I never subscribed to, a postcard reminder from my dentist about my appointment (and also got an email reminder) a newsletter from one company touting how green they are, a letter from my electric company asking if I want to be part of their green energy program, for $6 a month (I already am, and now am wondering how much of my money they are spending on annoying mailers – when they send a monthly newsletter and bill me online?) and 2 catalogs I never requested. Also, yet another final reminder to renew a subscription for a magazine I do not want. Not to mention those weekly newspaper shopping circulars that nobody ever looks at. Whew! That’s a lot of paper.

According to the folks at About.com here are some interesting facts:

5.6 million tons of catalogs and other direct mail advertisements end up in U.S. landfills annually.
The average American household receives unsolicited junk mail equal to 1.5 trees every year—more than100 million trees for all U.S. households combined.
44 percent of junk mail is thrown away unopened, but only half that much junk mail (22 percent) is recycled.
Americans pay $370 million annually to dispose of junk mail that doesn’t get recycled.
On average, Americans spend 8 months opening junk mail in the course of their lives.

By opting to remove our names from mailing lists, we can reduce the amount of mail we receive significantly. One source that is quite effective is The Direct Marketing Association (DMA) where you can list your address and what you do, and do NOT want to receive. There are many other good lists removal sources, some free and some with a fee.

In the case of the magazine that landed on my doorstep uninvited, I had to call the magazine publisher (who told me that it was actually sent by an outside magazine placement source), so that required an extra call. My electric company? Calling them tomorrow (I have requested to be taken off their mailing list online and also in writing) Let’s hope third time is the charm. The dentist? Asking them when I go in for my appointment to notify me of appointments online only.

It may take a couple of tries, and sometimes it takes time before you are removed from the lists, but don’t give up. Can we completely eliminate all mail from coming our way? Probably not, but why not do what we can? It is definitely worth the effort it takes to reduce the paper that comes into our lives. I do not want 1.5 trees to be destroyed on my behalf, just so I can be annoyed when they clog up my mailbox.

What strategies do you have for reducing your junk mail?

Let’s Make 2012 the Year of the “Advocate For The Environment”

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 05:55:31 +0000

Why not?

Time Magazine’s 2011 Person of the Year is The Protester. In their words, the reason for the choice was clear: “No one could have known that when a Tunisian fruit vendor set himself on fire in a public square, it would incite protests that would topple dictators and start a global wave of dissent. In 2011, protesters didn’t just voice their complaints; they changed the world. ”

What if we created 2012 to be the year of the ADVOCATE FOR THE ENVIRONMENT? What if we could start a global wave of awareness, sustainability, reducing our carbon footprint so immense it ws unstoppable? What if we did it, not through violence, fighting and complaining, but through positive actions? Would you join in the movement? I know I would!

Here’s to a Great, Green New Year!

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 05:28:39 +0000

We rang in the new year less that a week ago, and with it came the flurry of everyone busily setting goals, intentions, resolutions for the new year, even if the intention was to not make any resolutions! Judging from the number of people searching this site for information about teflon, thermaolon and silicone cookware, I am guessing that eating healthy is a top priority for many. On the other hand, I wonder how many of us made the green commitment and declared our intentions about reducing our carbon footprint, becoming more eco-aware, or even something as simple as recycling more in 2012?

Yesterday, in my other blog, INspired Ink, I wrote a post about finding the perfect “word” that will inspire and challenge us for 2012. Well, why don’t we try it here? What is the word that will inspire you to take bold action, and make you become unstoppable in your quest for living a greener life? As in, “How can I become MOTIVATED to commit to a greener lifestyle?” or “Where is the OPPORTUNITY to reduce my carbon footprint?” Imagine adopting a word that will really make the difference for you in reducing your carbon footprint, and help you live a more environmentally sustainable life. Here are some suggestions:

INspire
Motivate
Create
Informed
Sustainable
Integrity
Respect
Educate
Commit
Opportunity
Now your turn…

What word will motivate you into taking up the green path? And inspire others to join you? 2012 is the year we CAN make a difference…

Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 05:08:44 +0000

You’ve been meaning to do it all year, and now here we are, in the final countdown to 2012. Which makes this the perfect time to check out ways you can make an eco-difference right now. While it is always the right time to contribute to an organization that is involved in the preservation of the environment in one way or another, doing so in the next couple of days allows you to use your tax-deductible donation in 2011. Do more than just talk about sustainability and the planet, get involved on a financial level and make your commitment even stronger.

There are many good organizations that are doing wonderful work, and I am sure every one would welcome a donation. The one I just picked was the Nature Conservancy. Not only do I love their vision, and the work that they are doing, I had an inspiring chat with one of their knowledgeable representatives, Anna, outside my local Whole Foods Market, and she made all the difference for me. It was wonderful to talk positively about the environment and what is going right, thanks to the efforts of people who care. So, I am a new “Friend” of the Nature Conservancy, which means I make a monthly contribution. I am happy to do this, and it helps me be involved. Their vision is one that aligns with my values:

“Our vision is to leave a sustainable world for future generations. Today’s society faces unprecedented challenges. Dwindling natural resources, declining economies, a rapidly changing climate and other threats require that all of us begin working together to reach common solutions. More than ever before, we must find innovative ways to ensure that nature can continue to provide the food, clean water, energy and other services our growing population depends upon for survival. Now is a time of opportunity. A time to move conservation from the sidelines of global priorities to the center of the world stage—because human well-being depends on a healthy, diverse environment.” ~ The Nature Conservancy

To find out more, visit www.nature.org

There are many other ways to get involved. Here are a few more places to donate;

The World Wildlife Fund (WWF)

Eco-Libris

National Audubon Society

And many, many more…

The point is this: Get involved! You can make a big green difference if you put your money where your mouth is.

The Gift of Peace

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 04:56:50 +0000

” If everyone demanded peace instead of a new television set then there’d be peace.” ~ John Lennon

This holiday season, why not give the ultimate green gift? It starts with each of us. The gift of peace. For ourselves, our friends and families, our work colleagues, corporations, cities, states, countries, continents. For the planet.

We are making strides toward a peaceful, greener planet. For example, in California, many cities have voted on a plastic bag ban, awareness is coming in many areas, and people are making greener choices and solutions that are creative and inventive. But those are other posts still to be written.

But, this year alone, we have heard the stories of pepper spray being used for getting ahead of the crowd for a game, or a waffle maker, just to save a few dollars. What if we sent peace instead of pepper spray? But, pepper spray is a post for another day.

There are many people protesting in the world today. When did the peaceful statements turn angry? What if we could communicate through peace?

We can even see disharmony occasionally at the various holiday gatherings happening all around the world, the ones that are supposed to be joyous, and yet can sometimes turn ugly, especially in otherwise loving families? What if we could bask in peace instead of discord?

Think of the traffic, long lines and delays at the airports, tired and cranky people, struggling and fighting their way to their destinations. Perfect time to be peaceful, and embrace the spontaneity that is offered by adjusting plans and schedules.

And, most significantly, what if we could create peace for the planet? Stop fighting between nations, beliefs, ideas? What if we could peacefully inspire others, and ourselves as well, to make choices that are in align with the preservation, sustainability and positive growth of the planet?

That is my holiday wish for us all. I don’t have the answers – I just hope that together we can create that peaceful path. Why not end this with one more John Lennon quote?

“All we are saying…give peace a chance.”

Stop Clinging to Me!

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 05:58:25 +0000

Here I was, earlier this week, all dressed up and feeling festive at the holiday party I had just arrived at. What happened? I took off my coat and ZAP! I had a static cling attack. I don’t know about you, but the feeling of an acrylic sweater clinging and bunching around my body is not my idea of a good time. Gives me the heebie-jeebies, as a matter of fact. Welcome to winter – when clothes (especially ones that contain synthetic fibers) somehow mysteriously develop an annoying case of extreme static cling! So, I got curious: what is it really and how can I get rid of it in an environmentally friendly way?

Basically, static is a phenomenon, or event, like the weather. It occurs when there are dry conditions, such as dry, warm indoor winter air. An electrical charge builds up and holds objects together. So, back in 1978, the folks at Alberto-Culver got annoyed enough to create a product to eliminate static cling called Static Guard. It worked pretty well, too. Problem was, it was quite toxic, as anyone who has ever been nearby when it was sprayed, was well aware. The horrible smell, coughing, and gagging (I exaggerate, but only slightly) were enough to have me stop using it.

So, what to use? Hairspray works OK, if you don’t mind your clothes getting all hair sprayish. And, depending on the kind you use, it might not be good for the environment, or your lungs (see above description.) Spraying water on the garment works, at least until it dries. And it always dries, especially in a warm, dry environment. So, here is my absolutely unofficial, completely natural, and mostly untested by me, list of ways to remove, reduce or eliminate static cling:

Spray water on the inside of the garment.
Avoid over-drying clothes in the dryer, and shake them as you take them out to fold.
Or line-dry them.
Use 1/4 cup white vinegar in the rinse water.
Or 1/4 cup Borax.
Spray white vinegar on the garment.
Run a wire hanger inside the garment while you are wearing it.
Wear more natural fibers.
Pin a safety pin or two to the inside of the garment at the side seams.
Use lotion on whatever body part is in contact with clothing.

Personally, I can hardly wait to try the safety pin trick! What do you use to cure this pesky problem?

Presents, Perfected

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 04:26:23 +0000

It’s been said that the perfect present is a gift that comes from the heart. Something that is considered carefully with the recipient in mind. ‘Tis is the time of year we like to give gifts – to family, friends, work colleagues, our hairstylist, kid’s teacher, and the list keeps growing. These gifts do not necessarily need to break the bank. Wouldn’t it be great if they didn’t? Major bonus points if they are environmentally friendly. Leo Babauta of Zen Habits (one of my favorite blogs) and his family have issued a challenge: The No New Gifts Holiday Challenge. It is simple – no new gifts. There are many creative alternatives, honest. Another challenge, if that one seems to be too daunting for you is the No Gifts from the Mall or Big Box Stores Challenge (my challenge to you) which is self-explanatory.

What to do if you want to give green gifts from the heart and not spend too much – well – green? Here are a few ideas from my post last year, Green Gifting Ideas Galore, to get you started:

E-Giftcards – I-tunes, e-books or just about any other place you can imagine – google the store and see what they offer
Shop Locally – This one is a no-brainer. Make a difference in your own local community and reduce your carbon footprint. It’s fun to shop in a non-chain store and savor the unique things they offer. A few miles from me is the original Fleet Feet Running Store and next door to that is their Lifestyle Boutique. I found great bags made from yoga mat scraps and other green gifts.
Peace Bomb Bracelets - These are fast becoming a favorite of mine. I have already gifted a couple and they were both big hits. Now I’m placing an order for a half-dozen more.
Eco-Encouraging gifts – Klean Kanteen mugs and water bottles, or ones of your choice, bags, solar anything – whatever helps people on the path to being greener.
Handmade Gifts – Anything from the kitchen,or perhaps a knitted scarf, hat or gloves. or supplies for them to DIY. Anything your imagination can dream up, and bonus points if it is recycled or repurposed. (My daughter recently gave me a wonderful pair of earrings made with old mailbox keys. Every time I wear them people ask where I got them.) Not crafty? Check out Etsy for an amazingly large and clever assortment of handmade and vintage goods, many of which are green. Or, visit a local holiday boutique.
Donate to their favorite charity in their name – Not sure which one? There are many great green ones, including the World Wildlife Fund (see side of page)
Give an Experience – Tickets to the movies. theater, basketball games, etc. or an IOU for a wonderful custom-made experience you create with imagination and thoughtfulness (babysitting a friends kid, delivering coffee for a week, free car wash, or anything that the recipient will enjoy.) You can also give them a class, online teleclass, workshop or even coaching sessions!

And, a couple more:

Antiques, or things passed from generation to generation. That funky old avocado green fondue pot might just make a perfect retro, green gift.
Memories. Spend time creating some.
Gratitude

I am grateful for the gift of each of you…

Happy Birthday WWF!

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 02 Dec 2011 05:18:57 +0000

This week, the WWF celebrates its 50th birthday! Known as both the World Wildlife Fund and the Wide Fund for Nature, the world’s largest independent conservation effort is an international and non-governmental organization, working on issues regarding the research, conservation and restoration of the environment.

“For 50 years, the WWF has been protecting the future of nature. The world’s leading conservation organization, WWF works in 100 countries and is supported by 1.2 million members in the United States and close to 5 million globally. Here is their organization’s statement: “WWF’s unique way of working combines global reach with a foundation in science, involves action at every level from local to global, and ensures the delivery of innovative solutions that meet the needs of both people and nature.

Their vision? WWF’s vision is to build a future in which people live in harmony with nature.

Their Mission? WWF’s mission is to conserve nature and reduce the most pressing threats to the diversity of life on Earth.”

Wonderful goals and a true vision to live into, right? Unfortunately, the WWF is not without a few detractors. You may have heard that the WWF has been accused by a number of environmental groups and campaigners for being too close to businesses. WWF believes that partnering with companies such as Coca-Cola, Lafarge and IKEA will reduce their impact on the environment. In fact, WWF collected$80 million dollars from corporations in 2010 (an 8% increase in support from corporations compared to 2009), accounting for 11% of total revenue for the year.

On the other hand, since everyone is getting involved, visibility is increased. Just the other day, as I was sitting at my computer, a polar bear magically appeared on my screen and began meandering around. Turns out, he was part of the Coca-Cola Arctic Home campaign, designed to protect the Arctic environment and help the species that call it home. The WWF website explains further: “Arctic Home” builds upon an existing partnership between WWF and The Coca-Cola Company focused on freshwater conservation. Together, Coca-Cola and WWF are working to conserve freshwater resources around the world, use water more efficiently, and hold down carbon emissions in Coca-Cola’s manufacturing operations. Additionally, we’re working to promote sustainable agriculture in the Company’s supply chain. By combining strengths and resources, Coca-Cola and WWF are able to go beyond what each organization could achieve on its own.”

Even Leonardo DiCaprio is in the act. He supports WWF’s Save Tigers Now, which aims to save tigers in the wild. And last March, I posted about participating in Earth Hour 2011, which was a profound and important hour whose benefits are far-reaching. You will be hearing more about Earth Hour 2012 here in March. Save the date to participate: Saturday, March 31, 2012 at 8:30 PM local time.

More good news? Each of us can help. In March, we can get involded in their We can adopt an endangered animal symbolically, give one of many great WWF gifts, donate money or any number of other options. This holiday, why not give a win-win-win gift?

Imagine Thanksgiving 2012…

fredibakercoaches — Fri, 25 Nov 2011 05:41:58 +0000

“I have a dream…” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Words made famous from a pivotal time in history. The March on Washington. 250,000 people. August 28, 1963. Back then, almost 50 years ago, we were fighting for American civil rights. King delivered those immortal words for The March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, which was specifically meant to put pressure on the Kennedy administration to advance civil rights legislation in Congress. Which, if you think about it, is not all that different from all the Occupying we are doing today.

Here we are, Thanksgiving 2011, with Occupy Wall Street (and far beyond) protests growing in number and becoming a world-wide phenomenon. Back in the ’60s, we were fighting for civil rights, now it is the 99% vs the 1% The violence is escalating. Where can we find peace? Where can we find the gratitude in what is going on today? Specifically, where can we find the reason for college students being sprayed with pepper spray when they were sitting peacefully, with linked arms, demonstrating their right to freedom of speech. Sitting, having pepper spray forced down their throats, as their mouths are held open, I am told from someone who would know.

Where are we going with this violence as a nation, I wonder? Us vs. Them. Back in the early days of this country it all began with the Pilgrims vs. the Indians. Then the North vs. the South. After that, it was the Blacks vs. the Whites. And now this. The fighting, dissention and destruction. What has really changed? It can be hard not to become discouraged.

We are at a crossroads. We can choose violence, or we can look for a way to solve our challenges peacefully. We can be part of the problem or part of the solution. What if this were the perfect time to begin the healing and the rebuilding? To come together and forge some new vision, something bold, creative that will have a powerful, positive impact foe generations to come. It is time to heal the planet, and it begins with us.

As Martin Luther King said, “Let us not wallow in the valley of despair, I say to you today, my friends…so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream. I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed; ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal.’”

What if we could come together and create that dream? How about if we could create that dream right now? With a renewed sense of vision and purpose, what if we could imagine Thanksgiving 2012, where people have forged a common bond for the greater good, where peace and plenty are more than just a dream?