Huntington Beach Green Guide

Green Gift Ideas for the Holidays

2011-12-21T07:51:00.000-08:00

The Daily Green's gift guide features the season's best green gifts — including many unique items made by independent artisans that you can't find in any shopping mall. Even if you've only got a few dollars to spend, you'll find incredible green gifts for under $20 that you can be proud to give. And, because we know less is more, we've highlighted creative ways to give without giving stuff at all.

Check them all our here: http://www.thedailygreen.com/living-green/green-gifts

How to Have a Eco-Friendly Halloween

2011-10-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

(from Ecologist Website)
Creating extra waste and encouraging over-consumption; Halloween isn’t the greenest holiday. But as Ben Hudson explains, you can still have a scarily good time without it costing the planet.

With the global population set to reach seven billion on the 31st of October and no end in sight to economic and environmental turmoil, this year’s Halloween could just be the most terrifying since the Middle Ages. Once associated with mystery, magic and superstition, modern Halloween celebrations are more about dressing up, revelry and spookily shaped sweets. More than 2,000 years old, Halloween is one of the world’s oldest festivals for commemorating the dead and making the transition into winter. But commercialisation has turned this rather simplistic idea into a multibillion dollar business. Next to Christmas, more money is spent at Halloween than on any other holiday. The US spends a whopping $6.5 billion on candy, costumes and decorations.

Unfortunately, this translates into a whole lot of waste and carbon emissions. But there are ways to reduce the impact of your spooky celebrations. ‘In truth, to celebrate Halloween, you don’t need to spend a penny,’ says Lynn Colwell from US not-for-profit organisation, Green Halloween. ‘We’re not taking anything away, we’re trying to help people have a great time and that does not involve mum and dad going out and buying stuff. We promote healthy and eco alternatives so it’s good for the children and good for the planet.’ Here’s how to get involved the green way.

What to wear
Masks and costumes are an integral part of Halloween and unlike sweets, are a genuine part of Halloween. On the 31st, it was believed that the dead would return to earth and roam the streets so to avoid being recognised people would wear masks to misdirect spirits and ghosts. When Halloween reached America it became more about communal parties and festivities where it lost much of its religious and superstitious undertones. But Halloween wouldn’t be Halloween without the costumes everyone from one to 100 loves to wear. After all, it’s the one night of the year where anything goes wardrobe-wise as long as you’ve got a good back story.

For most people, costumes are store-bought rather than home-made. Cheap mass-produced non-recyclable polyvinyl chloride (PVC) costumes often don’t last the night and end up littering the streets until they are committed to landfill. Rather than splashing out, get creative and make you own costume from old clothes. If you are having party, make it a rule and give prizes for the best (and worst) designs. Look through your old clothes; you’ll be surprised what you will find at the back of your wardrobe. Ask friends and family for help and if you need to buy something go to a charity shop. The same applies for make-up; Halloween is a great chance to use those odds and ends of old make-up left at the bottom of your bag. You can make a pretty convincing ghost or Greek God with an old bed-sheet and it’s just as easy to scare up a zombie costume with the right combination of ragged-clothing and make-up. If you are still struggling, you can always rent a costume or swap clothes with a friend for the rather lame ‘we’ve come as each other’ look - just don’t expect to win any prizes

Green Expo Saturday, Sept 17.

2011-09-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Last weekend Huntington Beach was a hub-bub of activity. I'm sure most of you know it was the big celebration for the Ocean View Little League World Champions. It was great seeing all the local support with so many people there for the parade and the rally. If you missed it, I posted some photos: http://thelocalhb.shutterfly.com/.

This weekend also has plenty in store,,, all listed on the calendar on TheLocalHB.com. One of the highlights, however, is the Green Expo at the Pier on Saturday. It runs 9am-5pm. There will be over 50 vendors showcasing all ways to be eco-friendly. From solar companies to artificial turf to water conversing landscaping and much more,,,,there will be all ways to learn, learn, learn. Thousands are expected to show up for this event. Don't miss out.

After you are done at the expo… why not venture up to north Huntington Beach and enjoy some time at Bella Terra. The Huntington Beach Concert Band will be playing in the amphitheater (6-9pm) - free concert for all. While there, how about a bite to eat??? Check out Pizzarito (established in 1984) if you want a quick slice or other menu favorites like their mouth watering meatball Parmesan sandwich to enjoy during the concert or any night before the movies or just dine on the patio while relaxing & enjoying the fall weather and people watching all while you munch on the authentic taste and feel of New York pizza with sauce and dough made fresh daily using, of course, only the finest ingredients. By the way, they offer FREE delivery! Currently they also have a great special going on for a limited time: Mon. thru Fri. 3-6pm, buy one slice and get the second FREE. They are located in Bella Terra - 7101 Edinger Ave. (714)374-7678

Get outside and enjoy these final days of summer!

REALLY Go Green for St. Patricks Day with Eco-Friendly Activities

2011-03-17T10:53:00.000-07:00

(This Article Posted by Ian Andrew on Greener Ideal)

Although it's the first thing that often comes to mind, St Patrick's day isn't all about drinking green beer. To make your St. Patrick's Day even greener than it already is, we've come up with a few eco-friendly activities that are best suited for environmentalists living a green lifestyle on St. Patrick's Day.

1. Eat Green - Bright Green Dishes
It may be the easiest way to brighten your day with the color green, but try to find some green foods to eat. Look beyond a traditional salad, and think outside the box. Mint leaves on top of a bowl of organic ice cream could be a great St. Patrick's Day treat for the kids (and be much healthier than a Shamrock Shake)!

2. Get outside and plant something green
It may not be quite warm enough to get the shovels in the ground yet, but it's starting to look and feel a lot like spring here. It might be a good time to take stock of what you plan to do in your yard this year, and if it's too cold to get outside, look at some greenery online and choose what plants and trees you want to invest in this year.

3. If you're going somewhere, use green transportation
This tip goes double-true if you're partaking in any green beer festivities, but if the weather allows it you should leave the car keys at home and join the St. Patty's Day parade on foot. A second-best alternative for green transportation on St. Patrick's Day is public transportation. Whether you're riding the subway or the bus, fewer drivers on the road means fewer carbon emissions.

4. Wear green clothes made with organic cotton
Although most people don their favourite shade of green clothes for St. Patrick's Day, be even greener and one up them with some organic cotton duds. Many retailers are now offering organic lines of clothing to appeal to their green customers, so don't be shy to ask if you find yourself at the mall tomorrow.

5. Drink Green Organic Beer
Lastly, because it can't be avoided on St. Patrick's Day, drink some green beer. While most people will throw some food colouring in their beverages (although avoid the artificial stuff), take it a step further and order something organic.

Local to Toronto, we have a great green brewery, Steam Whistle, who pride themselves on brewing with natural ingredients and taking part in other great green initiatives like packaging made from recycled materials and biodegradable cups for events.

If you're going to indulge in the green beer today, find a local brewery near you that sources natural ingredients, and make this year's St. Patrick's Day green beer extra green.

Dreaming Of A Green Christmas: Tips For An Eco-Friendly Holiday!

2010-12-14T09:27:00.000-08:00

(by Lisa Martin on December 14, 2010 from Green Earth News)

The holiday season doesn’t have to be a burden on the environment. Making small changes in what we do can lower the impact of this holiday season.

Replace your holiday lights with energy efficient LED lights. According to Energy Star, holiday LED lights consume about 70% less energy and last up to 10 times longer than traditional holiday strands. The lights will pay for themselves in electricity savings in less than five years! For a typical holiday tree illuminated with 1,100 lights and operating for six hours every day of the week, you can expect to save up to $8 per month, or 70 kilowatt-hours of electricity, by using LED lighting. The best part is that you can find them virtually anywhere and they come in various shapes, colors, and sizes. There are weather resistant ones for outdoor use too! Also, if one light goes out, the strand still works. I’m still amazed that most of us will use 180 hours of electricity per month this holiday season to illuminate our trees and our holiday decorations.

Use a power strip for your holiday decorations. By using the on/off switch on a power strip, you can fully power down decorations. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 75% of the electricity used to power home electronics and appliances is actually consumed when they are turned off. This can be as much as 10 percent of a home’s overall energy usage.

Be mindful of the gifts you choose to give. Choosing gifts from recycled sources helps reduce the waste stream. Also, give battery free gifts. According to the EPA, 40% of all battery sales happen this time of year. Even rechargeable batteries find their way in the trash, and discarded batteries (both kinds) are an environmental hazard. Check out some fantastic eco-friendly gift options that require no batteries!

Choose a live tree. Although an artificial tree can be used year after year, real trees are still the more sustainable choice. Eventually artificial trees (which are made from petroleum products) will end up in the landfill and their plastic content will make them last forever. Live trees are a renewable resource grown on tree farms. While they are growing, they contribute to better air quality, and over 90% are reduced into mulch after the holidays. Live trees tend to be locally grown and sold also.

Recycle old electronics. When the latest version of an electronic gift shows up under your tree, make sure that you recycle your old ones. Older models of computer monitors, laptops, cell phones, etc can be donated to shelters. Also, stores like Best Buy will also pay you to recycle these things!

Reuse boxes and gift wrapping materials. Throughout the year, I personally keep all the boxes that I think I can use to wrap gifts in whether the box came from Amazon or Green Earth Bamboo. I also keep the tissue paper enclosed with the gift too. A trick I learned from my grandmother is that you can actually iron out creased wrapping paper! It turns out as good as new. If you get gift bags, those are very easy to reuse too.

I hope these suggestions will help you care for the Earth and celebrate the season! Make sure to visit Green Earth News’ Green Is Grand section for more on eco-friendly living!

Green Expo in Huntington Beach is right around the corner!!

2010-08-10T13:27:00.000-07:00

Do you have the Huntington Beach Green Expo on your calendar yet? If not, here you go: September 18, 10am-4pm. This year we will be at the Huntington Beach Pier. We expect a great turnout being at the beach. Plus there will be live concerts during the event for your listening enjoyment. If you'd like to be a vendor at the expo, please visit the expo website at www.HuntingtonBeachGoesGreen.com . All the info about the event as well as the vendor application can be found on the website. I know some of you expressed an interest in being part of the expo this year, if you are one of those folks, you can either email me back your contact info and someone from the chamber will get in touch with you or fill out the vendor application on line and email it in.

Huntington Beach - are you green?

2009-06-30T08:29:00.000-07:00

Coming up in September is the Huntington Beach Green Expo. 9/26, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at the Central Park Library parking lot.

This expo expects to have around 100 vendors and thousands of visitors. If you feel you are a green business and would like to have a vendor booth, visit www.huntingtonbeachgoesgreen.com to get all the information. Or if you are just interested in how to be green, come give the expo a visit. Last year was the first year for this expo and it went over VERY well. We expect this one to be bigger and better.

Also check out the online green guide for Huntington Beach at www.HuntingtonBeachGreenGuide.com. on the site you will find how to tips, calander of green events, rebate & tax credit info and local business resources that are eco-friendly!

An eco-friendly 'green' Easter

2009-04-06T17:13:00.000-07:00

(from the starpress.com)
The Easter Bunny has gotten an eco-friendly makeover. Before you hide any chocolate eggs, Jodi Helmer, author of The Green Year, suggests making a few changes to "green" your Easter celebrations:

Make eco-friendly Easter egg dyes: Use common kitchen ingredients, such as vinegar and grape juice to dye Easter eggs. (Choosing eggs that are free-range and organic makes the activity even more environmentally friendly).

Hide organic chocolates.

Skip plastic eggs and basket fill, which can contain BPA and PVC and opt for natural materials instead.

Celebrate locally: Take the kids to the Easter egg hunt in your neighborhood instead of driving across town.
The Green Year ($14.95, Alpha Books), provides 365 simple and inexpensive eco-friendly ideas for each day of the year. Organized by date, the green living tips suggest small changes and environmentally friendly ideas that make a big green impact.

Consider Bamboo Furniture for Your Home!

2009-03-31T09:53:00.000-07:00

(thanks to OZO Life)
Get bamboo, not bamboozled, the next time you're on the market for new furniture. There are many eco friendly options out there but the best type of furniture for you remains the kind made from the quick-growing, air-purifying mighty bamboo plant. Unlike other comparable hardwoods, bamboo emits 35 percent more oxygen. That means less carbon dioxide in your home, more room for you to breathe. For those seeing flashes of ugly wicker-looking furniture in your future, don’t panic until you've checked out the fine bamboo pieces by Washington-based Greenington. From clean and simple dining sets to Zen-inspired end tables, each piece is made using maturated Moso bamboo that is 20 to 100 percent more durable than oak. Furniture that will not only make you feel better but actually last longer is definitely something to breathe easy about.
Even more info about bamboo furniture can be found at: http://bambooathomes.com/

Eco-Friendly Office

2009-03-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

(Story thanks to: Caymanmama.com - green News)
At work, are you the token eco-friendly co-worker? If not, you should be! Going green at the office will not only preserve the environment, it can help to save money and time in the end.

There are many simple ways to be a greener worker at the office. One option is to use recycled printer labels. These labels are a great option to go easy on the environment and are 100% recycled and whitened without chlorine bleach, which releases carcinogenic dioxins into waterways during production.
Another great idea is to sort the trash with recyclables. It’s amazing how much trash can actually be recycled! In fact, the recycled printer labels can be recycled again as well as the packaging they come in, too.
Junk mail is a drag, so when random charities send your company free address labels in an attempt to collect a donation, use them if possible or take then home to the kids to play with instead of throwing them away.

Be eco-friendly and recycle at Rainbow Disposals Stop & Shop

2009-02-07T10:20:00.000-08:00

Did you know Rainbow Disposal has a Stop & Swap where you can drop off your household, yard and car care products you no longer need and pick up others you can use? It's free and available here in Huntington Beach at 17121 Nichols St. (between Bothard and Beach), open Tuesday through Saturday from 9am to 3pm.

Tips on having a "green" Christmas: both eco-friendly and money wise

2008-12-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

A "green" Christmas can be good for your wallet as well as the Earth, according to environmentalists who advocate doing more with less."We're suggesting cutting back 20 percent. Twenty percent in gifts, 20 percent in greeting cards, 20 percent in gift wrap, 20 percent in miles traveled," says Peter Sander, co-author of Green Christmas: How to Have a Joyous, Eco-Friendly Holiday Season. The result would be a trimmer holiday budget.
Read the rest of the story HERE.

Did You Know the Huntington Beach Independent is 'Green'?

2008-12-13T15:48:00.000-08:00

What is green and black all over? The HB Independent with help from its parent company, The Los Angeles Times. They are an industry leader in recycling. In fact, the Los Angeles Times has won several honors including a national Environment and Conservation Challenge Award for its recycling efforts and other programs.

According to the California Environmental Protection Agency, The Times is the largest user of recycled newsprint. More than 70% - about 216, 360 metric tons – of all newsprint used by the Times contained a recycled fiber content of at least 40%.

They were the first U.S. daily newspaper in 1992 to transition entirely from petroleum based black ink to water soluble soy based ink. The soy based ink is highly resistant to rub-off; it significantly reduces the airborne release of volatile organic compounds and the issues that arise from recycling newspapers that are printed with petroleum-based ink. Almost all of the ink used at their printing facilities is returned back into the production cycle for reuse. The South Coast Air Quality Management District Clean Air Award was given to the Los Angeles Times for this particular initiative.

Their Aluminum plates they use to print onto the paper are also recycled, in fact, they usually come back to consumers within two weeks as a soda or beer can. Good thing they use the soy based ink so they can be environmentally friendly to your stomach.

As a company they are committed to their readers, advertisers and our environment. Just thought it was worth passing on this information!

Free online conference for green building and renewable energy

2008-12-04T14:09:00.000-08:00

www.VirtualEnergyForum.com is offering a FREE online conference and trade show for green building and renewable energy professionals. At this event you will be able to view live presentations; network and share contact information with other attendees, and browse virtual booths of energy innovators. Present will be Fortune 500 energy executives, public policy leaders, & innovators of energy products & services.

Topics: Sustainability, alternative energy, clean technologies, green buildings & manufacturing & more.

Questions answered via live video by 40+ energy leaders, such as:· Joseph T. Kelliher, Chairman, US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission · James E. Rogers, CEO, Duke Energy · David J. Manning, Chief Environmental Officer, National Grid · Senior executives from Delta Controls, Hess, Johnson Controls, Pacific Gas and Electric, Siemens, Staples, Steelcase, Yale University, and more.

The date is Wednesday December 10th and Thursday December 11th, 9 am to 7 pm EST. It all happens online at www.VirtualEnergyForum.com . Register now , then return & Login December 10 & 11, 2008 to experience this live, interactive event, all from the ease of your PC!

Have a Green Thanksgiving

2008-11-24T15:07:00.000-08:00

(By Mary Beth Breckenridge Beacon Journal staff writer)

We usually associate Thanksgiving with brown, gold and orange, the hues of fall. But maybe the holiday's color should be green.
After all, Thanksgiving celebrates the bounty of the earth. Why not show our gratitude by demonstrating we care about our planet?
We've gathered some ideas for making your holiday a little more environmentally conscious. Mother Earth will thank you.

For the full story, click HERE.

Learn about the use of biodiesel fuel for vehicles

2008-11-01T14:55:00.000-07:00

November 5, 6:30 pm, will be the formation meeting for the Orange County Biodiesel Co-op. They will be organizing a group of folks in order to coordinate the collection of waste vegetable oil (WVO) for the use of making biodiesel motor fuel. Learn how and where to get WVO and how to process it to be used as a fuel itself and also how to make it into clean burning biodiesel. They will be discussing what types of cars and trucks are best suited for the use of vegetable oil and biodiesel for fuel. Many members of the group already have diesel vehicles that are running on biodiesel. Come check it out. Location: Great Earth Vitamin Store, 7164 Edinger Ave. (east of Goldenwest). More info: 714-552-5533

Make Your Kitchen Green

2008-10-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

(From newsday.com)
You don't have to spend a lot to go green--it can be as simple as screwing a $3 gizmo onto your faucet--but it's easy to make costly mistakes if you don't do your homework. There are no federal regulations for items marketed as eco-friendly so some green products might not be as green as you think.The November issue of ShopSmart, from the publisher of Consumer Reports, spent months sizing up fridges, running dishwashers, burning light bulbs, and punishing faucets to find the best green kitchen products. Five tips to complete the recipe for a green kitchen that will save you money and give you a fresh new look can be found with the rest of the story HERE.

Sustainability Conference to be held in Long Beach, CA

2008-10-10T16:49:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Sustainability Conference in Long Beach, CA
Potable Reuse for Water Supply Sustainability Conference: Critical Today, Essential Tomorrow
November 16-19, 2008
Hyatt Regency Long Beach, Long Beach, CA

The WateReuse Association and the International Water Association will present a specialty conference with the theme "Potable Reuse for Water Supply Sustainability: Critical Today, Essential Tomorrow" on November 16-19 in Long Beach, CA. This conference will bring together leading experts from around the world to discuss critical factors in the success of potable reuse projects, including meeting regulatory hurdles, demonstrating environmental and economic viability, and enhancing public understanding and acceptance.

CONFERENCE HIGHLIGHTS:· Presentations on success stories and lessons learned from Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas, Singapore, Australia, Europe, and Africa
· A panel discussion on environmental drivers and opportunities
· Presentations on policy and perception, regulations and research, technology and nature, and energy and economics
· Tours of the Orange County Water District’s Groundwater Replenishment System and the West Basin Municipal Water District’s Edward C. Little Water Recycling Facility
View the Updated List of Sessions

Register today and save up to $100 on the registration fees! (Full payment must accompany your registration to qualify for the early-bird discount rate.)Online Registration(You will be asked to login or create an account. If you are a member or past attendee, you already have an account established. Your username is your e-mail address. To get your password, click here. To register another person, you must login using his or her WateReuse username and password.)Download a Printer-Friendly Registration Form View the Conference Brochure.

Have a Green Halloween

2008-10-07T10:17:00.000-07:00

(From Journal Newspapers, WA area)
The fall and winter holiday season is upon us. Beginning with Halloween and culminating with a new year, it's a time when most American households celebrate in some way. But celebrating, unfortunately, often means increased wastefulness and a slacking off from regular health habits. But it doesn't have to be that way. In fact, according to the authors of the newly released book Celebrate Green, Corey Colwell-Lipson and Lynn Colwell, holidays are the perfect time to step up your focus on good health and Earth-friendly practices.

Corey, a local mom and founder of the Green Halloween movement, says parents who try to instill healthy habits in their kids throughout the year often become anxious during holidays, knowing that, especially Halloween, is all about the candy. "What else do you do? Not celebrate?" asks Corey of the dilemma parents face. There's no need to steal the fun from holidays like the Grinch - just add a little creativity to the mix and you'll have as much fun, if not more - making the holidays a little greener.

The inspiration for Green Halloween, a nonprofit, grassroots effort to promote child- and Earth-friendly festivities, came in 2006 while Corey was trick-or-treating with her two children. "A couple of houses were handing out non-candy items," recalled Corey, whose kids were thrilled with the trinkets. "It struck me that kids are overexposed to traditional candy, and maybe that's why something different gets them excited." The thought stuck in her mind, and, at the urging of her friends, Corey decided to approach several natural food stores about offering eco-friendly, healthy Halloween treats for parents who were interested in alternatives to candy. The store managers she spoke with loved the idea. Corey also shared the idea with her mom, Lynn, who had raised Corey with green practices long before they were hip. "We had a choice: Do we jump through the window when it's open, or let [the stores] handle it?" she said of her decision to create Green Halloween. "My mom and I are 'jump through the window' kind of people."

The pair had no trouble getting community involvement and support for the idea. In 2007, they chose Treeswing, an organization dedicated to improving the health and wellness of children - especially reversing the childhood obesity trend through physical activity and exercise - as their founding partners. "They helped us sculpt this, and Green Halloween is an official program of theirs this year," said Corey.
Thanks to some great national press coverage, Green Halloween is catching on in other cities around the country this year, including San Francisco, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Daytona Beach and Canton, Conn. Although Corey and Lynn encourage buying less "stuff" in general during all holidays, they realize it's more realistic for some to consider smaller, more affordable purchases of products that use less packaging or are otherwise more eco-friendly. The Green Halloween Web site, www.greenhalloween.org, offers hundreds of ideas for food, decorations, costumes and other new ways of celebrating this year.

With the release of Celebrate Green on Oct. 1, the principles for Green Halloween are applied to celebrations throughout the year, including birthdays, family reunions, office parties, baby showers, weddings and other momentous occasions. "The idea behind the book is really creating meaning versus buying all this stuff," said Corey.
Lynn, who has experience as a published writer and public relations professional, and currently coaches others to follow their dreams through her life coaching business, was the perfect partner for the book project. In fact, when the publisher went out of business, Lynn took over publishing and collaborated with graphic designer Jeff Duckworth to get the book out on schedule this fall. The result is a colorful guide filled with low cost, waste reducing, eco-friendly and healthy recipes, activities, games, traditions and tips for any celebration, printed on (of course) FSC certified paper. A portion of the proceeds from the book will go to Treeswing.
"People don't think about how often we celebrate in this country. The occasions are endless," said Lynn. "People may have thought about recycling, but when it comes to birthdays, they're still getting bottled water. We're realists. We want people to take the first step, look at the book, pick out one or two ideas and say, 'I'm going to try it this year.' Once that kind of things starts, it will be a groundswell."
Corey echoes that small shifts in thinking or behavior are what generate habits. "Once people start doing things green, they don't go backwards. Nobody starts recycling and then stops," she said. "We hope to be working ourselves out of a job. In a couple of years, what will we need Green Halloween for? It will be, 'of course.'"
The book is all about simplicity, says Corey. "The holidays are a perfect platform to talk about these issues and keep it fun. We try to make it fun and interesting. Being positive works."

Huntington Beach Green Expo a Success

2008-09-22T10:32:00.000-07:00

Huntington Beach: Surf City hosted it first Green Expo this past weekend (Sept 20) at Central Library and what a success it was. The free event has speakers, product demonstrations, samples, workshops and information booths. Issues discussed were water reduction, energy efficiency, solar energy, water conservation, recycling materials, reducing greenhouse gases and organic products. Many folks are already looking forward to the next event! To see the list of participating vendors and photos from the event, check out: www.HuntingtonBeachGoesGreen.com

Going Green Electronically in Huntington Beach

2008-08-30T10:33:00.000-07:00

Pay your utilities on line and help to be green. Electronic payments from utility customers exceeded 20,000-representing over 40% of the utility customers’ total payments for that month. This saved customers the expense of checks and postage and saved the city staff from individually processing these 20,000 payments. In addition, AutoPay applications continue to increase, and total payments received in July equaled almost $670,000-which is a new monthly high. The City Treasurer’s Department has been implementing electronic options over the last several years. Go to the website at www.surfcity-hb.org/payments to see all of the customer payment options.

Wal-Mart Strives To Be More Green

2008-08-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

Wal-Mart Stores Inc. is telling its suppliers that it's not enough to simply provide eco-friendly products. The world's largest retailer wants to be able to tell its customers the stories behind the products, of how they came to be and how sustainable they are. The company has a strategy with four points of emphasis for its sustainability marketing. Wal-Mart wants to promote waste reduction and recycling, natural resources, energy and social or community impact.

Wal-Mart has been putting increasing emphasis on ways it can be environmentally friendly and ways that sustainable methods can lower costs. From motion detectors that turn on lights only when customers are in the aisle to fuel conservation to innovations in packaging, the company has been approaching the effort from multiple angles.

Wal-Mart has given buyers an Aug. 18 deadline to submit products for possible placement the company's “Earth Month” promotion next year. They will pick products based on marketing potential, sustainability impact and business relevance.

The company highlighted Earth-friendliness of 50 products, including compact fluorescent light bulbs and Coca-Cola branded T-shirts made from recycled plastic bottles. They want products with stories to tell like SunChips, which has an all-solar plant in Modesto, Calif., and Majestic Rubber Mulch, which is made from recycled tires from Wal-Mart stores.

Consumers are growing very suspicious of green labels. Terra Choice Marketing recorded more than 1,000 products from six retailers last year, each with eco-friendly claims. He said all but one made unsubstantiated claims. Wal-Mart is taking this stuff very seriously and have set serious goals. The challenge now is, how can they meet their goals. Wal-Mart wants to provide suppliers with more information on how to produce a sustainable product and provide support in developing those products. The company wants to avoid hidden trade-offs in how products are produced and help companies show proof of green claims.

Paying More to be Green

2008-07-30T17:40:00.000-07:00

By Beth Daley, Globe Staff, from Boston.com
It's hard to avoid the onslaught of eco-friendly products these days. Maybe it was a joke, but I've even seen a reference for carbon neutral underwear.

Now, a new Yale School of Forestry & Environmental Studies survey show that marketers are clearly tapping into a money-maker: People want environmentally friendly products - and are willing to pay more for them even if their financial situation is poor.

The survey, conducted by GfK Roper Public Affairs & Media and Yale showed that half of respondents said they would "definitely" or "probably" pay 15 percent more for eco-friendly clothes' detergent or for an automobile. Forty percent said they would spend 15 percent more on "green" computer printer paper and 39 percent would do the same for green wood furniture.

And Americans who said their current financial situation is "fair" or "poor" were just as willing to spend 15 percent more on environmentally friendly detergent or furniture as those Americans with a better financial picture.

Some 75 percent of respondents said environmental groups are "very" or "somewhat" trustworthy when it comes to sponsoring eco-labels, only 55 percent said government agencies were trustworthy and 51 percent said industry groups were.So will you pay more for green products? And how certain are you that the products you are buying really are green?

2008-07-16T21:10:00.000-07:00

Portions taken From PR Newswire (http://sev.prnewswire.com/retail/20080716/CLW01516072008-1.html - for full story)

The spotlight continues to shine on an innovative trio of eco-friendly characters called Idbids - Scout the cloud; Lola the flower; and Waverly the water drop - who teach children "iddy biddy" steps to keep the Earth happy, healthy and green and how to have fun while doing it.

"We believe eco-friendly toys like Idbids can bring to life the idea that going green is fun, even for children as young as 3 years old," says Sarah Alvarez, co-owner of Idbids. "The combination of plush, huggable characters with beautiful, vibrant colors and supporting storytelling components help the concept of going green become an exciting, imaginative adventure."

The eco-friendly Idbids engage children in going green through colorful characters and simple activities that cleverly simplify a complex issue into something a child can understand. Scout, Lola and Waverly each have green feet and distinct personalities, and each is dedicated to a particular environmental element. Scout, a soft, fluffy white cloud, is knowledgeable about the air and becomes a bit cranky when he thinks about air pollution. Lola, the flower of the bunch, teaches children about trees and plants. And Waverly, a bright blue water drop, cares deeply about the oceans, seas, rivers and lakes.

Along with a storybook, field guide and an organic fabric cinch sack for the child to wear, the eco-friendly Idbids take children on a journey of discovery to learn the iddy biddy steps to protect the environment, from turning off the water when they brush their teeth to picking up and disposing of trash - and remembering to wash their hands! When children finish all of the Earth-saving activities listed in the field guide, they, along with a grown-up, visit www.idbids.com to be rewarded with an Idbids Certificate of Completion.

The Idbids, through toys and licensed children's products, are designed to create awareness and inspire action. Their motto is "iddy biddy steps make a biggie big difference in keeping our Earth happy, healthy and green." Idbids strives to make its products using organic, recycled or eco-friendly materials. For more information, visit http://www.trafficresults.com/click-rabbit.php?acctid=vJdXkCq9w9Y=&docid=CLW01516072008-1&redirect=1&url=http://www.idbids.com, or call 1-877-4IDBIDS (1-877-443-2437).

Rainbow Disposal Stop & Shop

2008-07-07T17:19:00.000-07:00

Staples Launches Online Catalog of Eco-friendly Products for Contract Customers

2008-05-26T21:39:00.000-07:00

Office products giant extends sustainable supply management offerings with "Green Guide"; aims to help customers further reduce environmental impact of purchases - From Supply & Demand Chain.

Office products company Staples is continuing its "green supply management" efforts with the launch of its "Staples Green Guide" online catalog, which stakes a claim as the office product industry's first online catalog of "eco-friendly" products for contract customers.Building upon the company's launch of its 2008 Contract online catalog, the online Green Guide is intended to support environmentally sound procurement practices while driving greater convenience and efficiency, Staples said. The Green Guide "combines the ease and familiarity of a traditional paper catalog, while enabling customers to reduce the environmental impacts associated with the use and disposal of paper catalogs," according to the office products company.Available to all Staples Contract customers, the Staples Green Guide features products ranging from paper and toner to unexpected categories like desk accessories, furniture and cleaning products. The catalog offers the look of the printed catalog, but it features keyword and item number search functionality and the ability to bookmark pages and create, print and e-mail office supply "wish lists" to the person responsible for ordering office products through StaplesLink.com.As Staples sees it, with organizations continuing to focus on corporate social responsibility, an increasing number are using the power of purchasing to advance their sustainability efforts. Staples Contract customers can now access their own Green Guide and allow their employees to submit their order requests for "green" products to approved purchasers."Building sustainable business processes is important to our customers and they are increasingly looking for us to provide more environmentally friendly solutions," said Marci Grebstein, vice president of marketing for Staples Contract. "The Staples Green Guide makes it easy for procurement managers to reach their green procurement goals and gain cost efficiencies with program compliance."The Green Guide is available through www.staplesadvantagecatalogs.com.

Tight budget? Your can still switch to green in your home

2008-05-23T05:36:00.000-07:00

(from the telegraph.co.uk)
For consumers who want cost-effective ways to eco-friendly energy, there are many options, writes Harriet MeyerHomeowners battling rising utility bills and concerned about their carbon footprint can go green and cut energy costs. Half of all carbon emissions come from buildings rather than cars and other sources, according to the UK Green Buildings Council – yet there are various eco-friendly methods available to adopt a greener attitude to energy needs.

These vary from simply fitting low-energy lightbulbs, which burn for four times as long as standard bulbs, to installing sophisticated "microgeneration'' equipment such as solar panels and thermal heating systems.

For the full story, read it at the Huntington Beach Green Guide at this LINK.

Shipley Nature Center to be highlighted on KCET

2008-05-14T10:31:00.001-07:00

On April 29, 2008, Huell Howser visited Huntington Central Park and stopped at Shipley Nature Center to say hello and to find out why all the folks in the know are coming to Shipley. Huell toured the Redwoods and watched as the children were learning about how the Native Americans hunted. Then, on to the Sycamore/Alder Grove to find the hidden gathering circle and see the Ki. He spent time with Nancy Harris learning about the California Native Plants exhibited in the Demonstration Garden and why they are so important to our environment. Along the route, he chatted with some of our visitors and volunteers to the delight of everyone. The episode will be aired on Thursday, May 22nd on KCET at 7:30 pm with a repeat following at 12:30 am.

Top 5 Green Minivans for 2008

2008-04-25T14:25:00.000-07:00

by GreenCar.com
Minivans have proven their worth over many years. While often overshadowed by the style and popularity of SUV's and the latest crossover vehicles, the venerable minivan is a family staple when it comes to safety, functionality, convenience, and value. Seating configurations are versatile and legendary. Seats come out, go back in, fold down, and some even turn around as needed. You can make room for cargo or in many cases carry six to seven occupants. Front bucket seats often allow parents easy access to kids sitting in the middle and rear seats. You just can’t get that kind of versatility from most other vehicles.
While it’s true that hybrid minivans are not on the scene yet, that will change as automakers continue to roll out new hybrid products. That doesn’t mean you can’t think “green” now when opting for a family-friendly minivan at the new car showroom. Like all models, there are some minivans that just stand out as more fuel efficient and “greener” than their peers. The top 5 are: #1 Mazda5; #2 Honda Odyssey; #3 Chrysler Town and Country / Dodge Grand Caravan; #4 Toyota Sienna; #5 Nissan Quest. Read more about there HERE.

HGTV Launches Eco-Friendly Series

2008-04-13T08:39:00.000-07:00

by Paul J. Gough of The Hollywood Reporter - April 8, 2008
Scripps Networks said Tuesday that HGTV will get on board with the move toward green living with three eco-friendly home programs and its annual home sweepstakes that will give away a green home.The programming will revolve around a new weekly series, "Red Hot and Green," that will make over a room in an environmentally friendly manner. Also planned are two specials: "20 Ways Your Home Can Save the Planet," which premieres this month, and "HGTV Green Home Giveaway 2008," which will showcase and award a Hilton Head, S.C., house in June.The network announced the shows for HGTV as well as ones for sister networks Food Network, GAC, DIY and Fine Living at Tuesday's upfront presentation at a midtown Manhattan restaurant.Food Network will launch several new shows, including a primetime show with Rachael Ray titled "Rachael's Vacation" that will see her overseas and spending big instead of sticking to $40 a day; "Food Sleuths," a series debunking misconceptions like the five-second rule; and competition series with the working titles "Eat the Clock" and "Chopped," pitting chefs in challenges. Food Network also will have "The Chef Jeff Project," about a former drug dealer who helps people become chefs, premiering in the fall.The HGTV shows, along with another run of "Design Star," follow last year's large investment in programming on HGTV that launched 12 series. Scripps Networks executive vp Burton Jablin also said that Fine Living will become a Nielsen-rated network in January.

Quicksilver Launches Eco-Friendly Winter Outerwear

2008-04-13T07:01:00.000-07:00

Sustainable Outerwear Features World's Most Advanced Earth-Friendly Textiles; Signature Series Designed By Travis Rice - (taken from Snowboard Revolution)

Huntington Beach, CA - Because it needs to stand up to the elements, winter outerwear has historically been among the least eco-friendly apparel on the market. The challenge of combining waterproof, breathable and comfortable technology has relied on a great deal of innovation that has, more often than not, been developed with performance, not the environment, in mind.

No more. On January 29th, Quiksilver will unveil an all-new line of eco-friendly winter outerwear. Recycled PET water and soda bottles combine with sustainable Hemp fabric and non-toxic natural dyes (free of heavy metals that contaminate waterways) to create outerwear that is highly functional, environmentally conscious and supremely stylish. Designed with the world's most advanced earth-friendly textiles and production processes, the collection represents an entirely new orientation for designing, fabricating, wearing and recycling winter outerwear.

The line will be previewed simultaneously at SIA '08 and at the inaugural Quiksilver Natural Selection at Jackson Hole. Quiksilver team rider Travis Rice will be on hand in Jackson to debut his portion of the line, the Travis Rice Signature Series.

"As a company of boardriders, we've always challenged the power and grace of mother nature in a way that is perfectly in tune with the environment," said Dave Rosenberger, VP Sales Quiksilver Wintersports. "This new outwear line reflects this ideal, because it meets the essential performance requirements of riders, while introducing a new, earth-friendly approach to winter apparel."

A brand that is innately tied to the mountains and the ocean, Quiksilver has always been committed to the fundamental philosophy behind the organic movement. This new line represents a progression in the company's environmentally-friendly commitment to a clean, healthy and sustainable approach to both business and recreational practices that is at the core of its identity, and reflected in its people, events and Foundation.

Long Beach Grand Prix Going Green

2008-04-06T23:36:00.000-07:00

American motorsports is poised to take a giant leap into the future April 18-20 at the 34th Annual Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach.
With the debut of "Green Power Prix-View" and an expanded Lifestyle and Alternative Energy Expo, the Toyota Grand Prix weekend will be the first major auto racing event to focus on innovations in alternative energy as they apply not only to everyday life, but to the world of fast cars as well.
Green Power Prix View will feature extensive, weekend-long displays of alternative energy vehicles, including the Toyota "Highway to the Future," as well as on-circuit activities featuring everything from hybrids to electric power to robotic vehicles.
The robotic vehicles will include the 1-2 finishers in the recent Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) Urban Challenge in Victorville, CA, which attracted more than 30 entrants, as well as the Toyota Prius that finished sixth.
The first-place vehicle from Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA won $2 million, while the runner-up entry from Stanford University in California took home $1 million. The Prius was entered by the Ben Franklin Racing Team.
The DARPA contest required the robotic vehicles to navigate traffic circles, avoid moving obstacles and merge into lanes…all the while obeying California's traffic laws!
In addition, race attendees will also have the opportunity to participate in an alternative energy vehicle ride/drive program, slated for 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sunday, April 20 near turns 9 and 10 on the east side of the Grand Prix circuit.
And, all weekend long, the Lifestyle and Alternative Energy Expo will highlight renewable energy sources, water and energy conservation, green building and healthy lifestyles for inside AND outside the home. The Expo is open race weekend from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Sunday and, like all in-circuit Green Power events, is free with a race ticket.
The Expo's host - the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center -- will be doing its part, too, generating more than 725 kilowatts of power daily from rooftop solar panels…more than 25% of the building's energy requirements.
"Green Power" will be a featured part of the weekend's six racing series ON the track, as well.
The American Le Mans Series (ALMS) is partnering with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U. S. Department of Energy and SAE International to incorporate "green racing" into its 2008 season, with all series cars competing on alternative fuels

The Seven "Rs" of Sustainable Packaging

2008-04-06T18:08:00.000-07:00

From California Green Solutions

As the country's largest retailer, Wal-Mart sets the standard for acceptable product packaging. They realize that product placement within Wal-Mart is essential to your business. Shorewood Packaging created greenchoice™ with two goals in mind:
-To supply customers with eco-friendly packaging options that are in compliance with Wal-Mart's new initiative so manufacturers can continue to sell products in its stores.
-To make a positive contribution to the environment in the long term as part of a network of suppliers striving to create sustainable products, utilize renewable energy and generate zero waste.

Wal-Mart will phase out products and materials that are shown to have significant human health and environmental impacts. Wal-Mart launched its Sustainable Packaging Initiative with the goal of reducing overall packaging in its stores by five percent by 2008. Wal-Mart will only carry products that are packaged with materials safe for human and ecological health.
This means that, to retain your market share with Wal-Mart, your products and packaging must meet "The Seven R's" of Sustainable Packaging.
1. Eliminate unnecessary packaging, extra boxes or layers
2. Reduce. "Right size" packaging, use fewer or lighter components
3. Reuse. Use post-consumer recycled material (PCR), reusable plastics
4. Renew. Use materials made from renewable resources
5. Recycle. Recycled, recyclable, compostable materials
6. Revenue. Achieve the above for the same or lower cost
7. Read. Print recycled / recyclable message on packaging

Bosch Establishes the Industry Standard as the ''Green'' Home Appliance Leader

2008-04-03T18:03:00.000-07:00

(from Buiness Wire)--If the more than eight million U.S. consumers who purchased a new dishwasher in 2007 bought a Bosch 800 Series model, instead of a conventional unit, the lifetime energy savings would be equivalent to preventing 21 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions (according to the Department of Energy). This could save a forest twice the size of Sequoia National Park in Southern Sierra Nevada – which is more than 400,000 acres. A staggering statistic such as this clearly demonstrates Bosch’s longstanding commitment to the environment and how its full-suite product portfolio delivers complete ECO solutions that families can rely on. In fact, the brand is the only U.S. manufacturer whose entire lineup of major appliances is ENERGY STAR® qualified, in the categories that the program rates.
“From its global low-impact manufacturing approach, to the key partnerships it has formed with sustainable construction and design leaders, Bosch is the undisputed green appliance leader with the most efficient machines on the market,” said Franz J. Bosshard, president and CEO. “Our green stewardship is a global consciousness, as we have a worldwide integrated management system that maintains the highest standards for environmental responsibility wherever our operations take us.”
Bosch has taken significant steps to reduce the eco-footprint of its manufacturing with state-of-the art production plants. In fact, it is the first manufacturer in the world to discontinue the use of CFCs in the production of refrigerators. The brand typically manufactures where its markets are, to keep products closer to customers and reduce transportation created emissions. All its factories, including its appliance park in New Bern, NC, has received the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 14001 certification, a worldwide certification that requires a company to meet strict international standards that minimize harmful effects on the environment caused by production. Moreover, the brand relies on reusable and recyclable materials while recycling all of its wood, glass, cardboard and paper. Bosch even requires its preferred suppliers to adhere to environmental policies similar to its own.
Furthermore, Bosch has established key partnerships with sustainable construction and design leaders to further cultivate green thought, including the U.S. Green Building Council/LEED® for Homes certification program and the National Association of Home Builders. Bosch appliances have been selected for multiple sustainable design projects including LivingHomes®, the first residential project in the country to achieve the Platinum rating from the LEED for Homes rating system. Additionally, Bosch has developed a unique online Green Resource Center, an award-winning microsite highlighting the brand’s green appliances and informational tools. Through the recently expanded site, consumers can learn about money saving rebates, as well as use the Energy Savings Calculator to figure out the financial advantage of purchasing and using a Bosch appliance throughout its operational lifetime. Builders and designers can access a tool that can be applied to their current projects and guide them through national and/or regional Green Building Certifications.
Bosch home appliances is continuously recognized for its contributions to energy resource conservation and is the proud two-time recipient of the Department of Energy’s prestigious 2007 and 2008 Excellence in ENERGY STAR Promotion Award, as well as the 2007 Annual Flex Your Power Award.
"Partners like Bosch are valued leaders in energy efficiency," said Alexander Karsner, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy at the Department of Energy. “Bosch’s long-term commitment to energy efficiency is good for business, the environment, consumers, and for the country as a whole."