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Signed into law on February 17, 2009 by President Obama the Recovery Act does include measures to enhance energy independence but exactly how far does the stimulus package go towards a Greener economy? By some accounts only $60 billion of the allotted $787 billion dollars will support shovel-ready traditional and “green technology” water, wastewater and energy infrastructure needs at the state and local level. Under the specific heading of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy $16,800,000,000 will be divvied up by the Department of Energy into various energy programs. A sizeable portion ($3,200,000,000) will be made available for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grants. These grants must adhere to the criteria set forth by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Specifically defined as implementation of programs authorized under subtitle E of title V.

While this is a sizeable amount of money - proportionately speaking - is it enough given the task at hand? In large part energy technologies in this country haven’t changed since Thomas Edison designed the Pearl power plant in Manhattan in 1882. Can 125 years of complacency be turned around with a mere 2.5% of the stimulus package directed towards the solution? Stay tuned. Our government does appear to be on the right track to a certain extent. It seems they do see value in achieving efficiency for their own buildings. The Real Property Activities Federal Building Fund has set aside $4,500,000,000 to convert GSA facilities to High-Performance Green Buildings. Green-retrofits are also on the agenda for other government housing programs including the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The statement “Energy is Wealth” has never been so true. If we accept this statement then the logical conclusion drawn from it is; managing energy usage is wealth management. Sustainability then becomes the name of the game and while government policies define the rules it’s individuals that make the difference. I say the built environment is the area we need to focus on. Reforming our energy policy in this county means improving our energy efficiency. Do you realize that by 2037, four times as many buildings and structures will be on the planet than exist today? Our generation is in a unique position to specify change and ensure these new structures adhere to sustainable guidelines.

By implementing Green Building standards such as LEED, maximizing the efficiencies of building envelopes, water and mechanical systems we can make a difference. The old approach to building design and construction will no longer suffice. Thanks to President Obama we’ve been given the tools for change in the form of the Recovery Act of 2009. Billions of dollars are waiting for innovative thinkers to apply for the grants that’ll change the way we use energy and build. Look at Connecticut’s solar leasing initiative http://www.ctsolarlease.com/. It’s the nations first rate payer supported residential leasing program for solar energy. The bottom line; there is no silver bullet. The solutions lie with many different companies, agencies, governments and in the hearts of those who care. Ultimately it’s up to us, the American people, to identify and implement sustainable solutions. Yes we can!

This summer your vacation plans may include some hiking, as it is so easy to just go camping, or hiking instead of spending money on flying somewhere and hotel rooms.

Remember to consider yourself like a guest at someone's house, and be respectful towards nature during your visit. There are things to remember while hiking to minimize the damage of your presence. For instance, taking your pet monkey as shown in the picture (or maybe that's a dog), raises your level of ecological impact. Other examples include to remember to stay on the trails. Stepping on flowers and into the fields of flora and fauna is damaging. In case you were wondering, you can actually kill some flowers by stepping on them. Picking at trees, moss and bark is damaging to the trees. And of course it goes without saying that you shouldn't litter. Even throwing rocks or sticks seems harmless enough, but it's really not. You run the risk of disturbing animals, and when they feel threatened they just might come looking for you! More tips on HIKING TIPS

There are little worlds in every group of living things witnessed along your hike. What appears to be some rocks or a fallen branch somewhere is actually home to living creatures and plants. Like the saying goes, take a picture, it'll last longer!

Just like the scale of impact would imply, mountain bikes cause the most damage, hikers cause some damage and then there are the Barefoot Hikers! Yes, people are causing 'virtually no trail erosion' BAREFOOT HIKERS hiking trails in their bare feet. Sounds like good times.

If you don't know where to hike check out www.localhikes.com and get going!

I have ventured into the North Shore Soap Factory just once, and that one visit made a lasting impression. A husband and wife were hanging out in the shop with their little ones. Jerry Driscoll, co-owner with his wife Deborah Driscoll, explained to me the difference between real soap and what’s on the shelves in grocery stores while holding his daughter on his hip and giving me a mini-tour around their beautiful shop.

“When you go to the grocery store and you buy what you think is soap,” he said, “is actually detergent. It’s made from chemicals. Our soap is made the way people used to make soap, but it is an expensive process in comparison to detergents.” That day, I bought three bars of soap and Jerry tried to give me one for free. I told him no and left the change. That was two and a half years ago. Today, the North Shore Soap Factory has doubled its production to supply Hawai’i’s Whole Foods with their delicious array of bath and body products. These products make for great green gift ideas!

In the shower this morning, while I grimmaced at my detergent bar as I lathered up, I wondered if, just maybe, that little shop that is now so far away has a website where I can buy their good products and feel great when I sud up in the morning. I was elated to find out that they do. The North Shore Soap Factory is located in the 100 year old Waialua Sugar Mill in picturesque Waialua, Oahu, HI, which adds to the green-factor of this business. Without a thriving business to occupy the building, it would have been torn down. Try these guys out - you will not be disappointed but rather amazed at the purity and quality of a great bunch of products that put other bath and body lines to shame.

Although severe storm warnings occurred through out the state of Virginia, the rain bypassed Richmond and is not expected for another week; so, this morning, I'll water my newly installed test plants with water salvaged from my home's AC condensation.

Unfortunately, most AC condensation is simply drained next to a house foundation. While I know you will think I'm exaggerating when I say - on a really hot VA dog day, I've collected up to 25 gallons of water - I'm not. For, I'm sharing a tip gathered through experience.

Be creative and identify what water sources available at your home site. Become water wise!

See "Water It Right!!" 1-page publication is available on the website at: http://virginiagreen.org/Info_Files/WaterItRight/water_it_right.htm

for additional articles/info: http://virginiagreen.org/be_water_wise.htm.

We've been busy working on the project in Istachatta, Florida. It is keeping us busy. We've rebuilt a bathroom, rescreened a 50' porch, redone the flooring on the porch, reworked a rotted bay window, and replaced some doors. There are two front doors, one upstairs and one downstairs. Replacing these doors was great! We went to the local recycled building supply store and found two fabulous front doors for $100 each. One is solid mahogany. We lovingly refinished the doors and they are beautiful. We are probably going to use an Imperium central vacuum system, made in the USA, that is definitely a green alternative to other central vacuum systems. It's made of all recyclable steel, has an on/of switch at the unit to prevent energy loss from vampire power, and has 100 % recyclable packaging. It's also earned the Rug and Carpet Institute's Indoor Air Quality Seal.

Check out the Imperium CV7700

Aggressive insects like mosquitoes get us so frustrated with their overwhelmingly annoying prescence that it can highten your aggravation to a level where you just want to grab the spray can, and just kill them! kill them all! Before you get to that point, a couple of alternatives can be implemented to ease the rage.

Plant Lemongrass. Like the famed citronella candle your outdoor parties may be void of unwanted insect visitors if you add a few lemongrass plants to your landscape. Plant citronella, otherwise known as 'the mosquito plant' it is the magical scent that makes the famed candles effective. Horsemint, catnitp and peppermint are a few other herbs to add to your mosquito repellent entourage.

Other ideas include, burning candles with herb myrrh. Myrhh oil added to the wick of a candle, or the incense when burned keeps mosquitos at bay.

You could also form your own army by inviting more mosquito predators to your yard. These include, the guppy, the dragonfly, birds, and bats. Yes, bats, they can kill 'between 600 to 1000 insects, mosquitoes included, and mosquito-netting.com also tells you what plants attract these predators. The gecko feeds on mosquitoes too, and might be kind of cool to have around.

Mosquito dunks are a once a month treatment to kill mosquito larvae. They are claimed to be a biological pest control, and are non-toxic. Once you dunk one in any water beds around your yard the larvae will die by the birds and fish, etc. won't. If you don't dunk all of your 'dunks' you can keep them around for years to come and they will still remain effective. Check out www.gardeningwithease.com to read about and purchase your dunks.

All this preparation may not be enough to completely keep the mosquito away, but the odds of it extending the life of your outdoor party by a couple of hours will be looking pretty good.

PAKISTAN ONYX AND MARBLE
ARC International is the leading Onyx , Marble, Granite and sandstone processing and exporting company from Pakistan. We are a leading supplier of these stones from Pakistan to the world market only due to our continued efforts for utmost quality achievement.

We stock onyx tiles, mosaics, sinks, tubs, slabs, vanities, and custom products. We specialize in Pakistan Dark green onyx, Green onyx, Light green onyx, White onyx, multi green onyx, red onyx, brown/golden onyx.

Natural stones of Pakistan are acknowledged worldwide as best in quality, variety and color. Here Marble, Sand Stone and Onyx are found in exclusive colors and shades which are non existent in other regions of the world. We use modern techniques for producing and processing marble, sand stones, onyx which has resulted in improved quality and our products are fast acclaiming appreciation in the world market.

ARC International is able to export from Pakistan directly to the greatest world-wide markets, like United States, Canada, Central America, Middle East, Asia, Europe keeping on competitive prices at the best quality.

Our products are getting fame amongst architects and builders worldwide as they give more artistic looks to the buildings. We are providing our products in these forms:
Handicrafts (pedestals, table tops, Vanity tops, bathroom vanities, bathroom vanity tops,
handicrafts products like Flower Vases & Urns, Candle Holder, Tissue Holder, Candy jars, Clocks, Lamps, Planter, Photo Frame, Animal Figures, Eggs, Spheres, Obelisk, Pyramids, Jars, Jewellry & Trinket Boxes, Coaster Set, Rolling Pin, Chess board, Mortar & Pestals, Fruit Tray, Cherry Cup, Wine Glasses, Cake Plate, Fruit Dish, Fruit Bowls)

Please visit the marble page where you will be able to look and admire our products. We are striving hard to provide our customers best quality, reasonable prices and outstanding services at all times. If you have developed interest in our products, please feel free to contact us.

Do you question the future of an American tradition, the sprawling lawn? While some advocate its demise, others agree turf matters as it serves as one of Mother Nature’s preeminent filtering systems when managed appropriately. A few years ago, there was a campaign slogan, 'just say no', related to turf/lawn nutrient management but reality is, if this strategy was implemented, only the form of pollution run-off changes. So, let's explore viable alternatives.

VA Tech’s Mike Goatley, Associate Professor and Turfgrass Specialist, joining the Virginia Green Industry Council (VGIC) has issued statewide a challenge to Virginians to GoGreen, become environmental stewards in turf management practices. During the 2009 Virginia GoGreen, garden festival and more, Goatley and his colleagues host an all-day lawn clinic. In support of their effort the Turf Store, www.theturfstoreusa.com, and the Smart Lawns Program sponsored by Henrico County Extension are on site and will assist with advising you how to safely manage lawns while protecting Virginia’s water resources.

Goatley provides a host of current and archived tips in best management practices for homeowners and their lawns through the “Turf and Garden Tips” website, http://www.weblogs.cals.vt.edu/lawn_garden/. One of the most important steps towards achieving a healthy lawn or landscape is to conduct a soil test, an activity recommended at least every 3-4 years for lawns in Virginia.

Improving soil almost certainly improves your lawn and landscape. For, many lawns struggle from the onset as turf and ornamentals at new construction sites are planted in what essentially is subsoil. The best sod in the world can only temporarily mask underlying soil problems!

In preparation for the turf clinic, contact your regional County Extension office and acquire for example a soil test similar to Virginia's land grant university VA Tech. Complete the test, forward the soil sample for analysis and then, follow the nutrient recommendations. During the Festival's clinic, on site experts can help you interpret the results as well as discuss how one can slowly but surely amend a poor soil into a desirable growing environment for plants through proper fertilization, cultivation, and compost applications

A second equally important step is to select a turf that works well for your environment. For a list of the best adapted cultivars for the states of VA and MD, review the current Virginia/Maryland Turfgrass Recommended Variety lists posted at http://www.ext.vt.edu/pubs/np/2805-1003.pdf . Consider existing lawn quality in relationship to current water, fertilizer, and pesticides uses and then, question if both the lawn and the environment would benefit by selecting a better adapted grass that requires fewer inputs.

Traditionally, Virginians prefer cool season grasses and early fall is a great time to establish and/or renovate these lawns. Detailed demonstrations on how to calibrate spreaders, how to calculate appropriate amounts of nutrients and lime, and how to deliver them accurately and efficiently will be available at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. during the Festival. Also, experts demonstrate how to properly establish seed and sod.

Mismanaged lawns can negate all the great attributes of a healthy turf: water filtration and groundwater recharge, erosion control, temperature and glare moderation, and the use of turf for recreation and relaxation. The Festival’s hands-on clinic provides you plenty of “best management practices” to deliver a great looking, environmentally friendly lawn.

As hostess for the Festival's special events, I invite you to attend an ‘admission free’ event, the Virginia GoGreen, garden festival and more; and discuss with Goatley safe methods for creating and maintaining a healthy lawn space. Educate yourself and then, go green - become an environmental steward in turf management practices!

Virginia GoGreen Garden Festival (and more …) held (rain or shine) September 12, 2009 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Garner Pavilion (located behind the Science Museum), 2500 West Broad Street, in Richmond Virginia. For directions, see web sitewww.smv.org and event details see www.virginiagardening.com. Festival admission and parking is free.

Are you aware of strategies that enable the ability to 'grow green' your business? Link to http://www.todaysgardencenter.com/magazine/?storyid=2082 to benefit from strategies shared by well-known Industry professionals.

Aware present-day globalized markets require that you don’t simply sell your work but your self, through soliciting assignments, networking, and gaining credentials through education and experience, I've become a recognized brand, ‘green’ writer and Industry advocate. A former tech/business communications specialist, over the years, an avocation transitioned into an environmental vocation and through ongoing publication and speaking, encourage others to ‘go green’, move from eco-weak to eco-chic.

As a result, I've researched and published a book, The ABCs of Green Industry Communications and provide ongoing columns. Please feel free to share this info with friends and colleagues and contact me with your stories and column ideas.

Grow green your business!

One of the biggest 'wows' you'll find is after you read about James Lovelock, along with Chris Rapley's idea in the works to 'stimulate the Earth to cure itself -- see Newspapers are Online Brands

It all comes back to Algae.  It's really great to know that slimy stuff that can surprise you off your raft and creep you out as it slithers around your calfs has a magnificent purpose that's being taken to a whole new level.  

They do this all with pipes that pump up the cool water from the bottom of the ocean to the top of the ocean, bringing the nutrients along with it, mixing and creating the blooming algae. Algae blooming in vast amounts to absorb carbon dioxide greenhouse gas. In addition, the algae releases a 'chemical called dimethyl sulphide that is know to seed sunlight reflecting clouds.'

Another factor that makes this technique a big wow for me, is the perspective behind it. Lovelock and Rapley are trying to boost the ecology, speed up what's already naturally taking place, to neutralize some of the damage, where we got ahead of nature. In this way, it doesn't seem to be a band-aid or a promise, but an appropriate response that would provide some real results.

Factors to consider include how the engineering would directly effect the immediate ecology, the ocean itself, and this factor is something they are still exploring. But the exploration is hopeful. The scientists seem to be thinking their solution just needs to be given a chance, that the risks are low enough to put the plan into action.

Obviously anything that can be done sooner than later should be done sooner than later, given the global climate circumstances. It's amazing the ideas that scientists, and people are coming up with, and this one just might work!