You may have noticed I haven't posted in a while, I have taking a brief hiatus from blogging with the pregnancy and birth of my first son but I am back now with a little less sleep but a little more inspiration. Being a mom has made me see the world and sustainability with new eyes.
Back when I was growing up, I did a lot of babysitting. While watching different kids I noticed a trend in the way mid-upper class families were raising their kids. There was a new focus on organic food, natural cleaning products, high efficiency products and sustainability in general. I jokingly referred to the parents of these children as "Soy moms," because their refrigerators always seemed to be stocked with a plethora of soy products: tofu "ice cream" sandwiches, tempeh, soy milk, etc. This almost became a joke between me and my sister who would try to raid the refrigerators after the kids had gone to sleep but were too turned off by the sound of "tofu cookies" to even take a bite.
Now that I am a mom, I get it. We want to do anything that will give our children a better chance at life. That includes offering them the nutrition of organic soy as well as protecting the environment that they will one day grow up into.
The new reality is that by the time our kids grow up we may have used up our oil sources, Global warming may create huge natural disasters and that's a scary thought. We don't just want our kids to grow up like we did, with clean air and water and gas prices that don't break the bank every time you fuel up. We want them to have better. Our lifestyle of using cars to go somewhere 2 blocks away, turning on the air conditioning as soon as the weather goes above 70 degrees F, and eating unsustainable produce and meat has contributed to the declining health and obesity epidemic of our nation. For the first time in years, kids may have shorter life expectancies than their parents.
As moms we want to step in to protect our kids and protect their future. As spring approaches, and people are looking to do more projects on their house and yard, I would encourage you to try to make sustainable decisions as you move forward with these projects. Try to water your grass less, use organic fertilizer or install a drainage system that helps prevent run off and erosion. Choose FSC wood for construction projects and look into permeable pavers and concrete for hardscaping. The more we all try to change, the better future we leave for the next generation.
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Does it make "cents" for businesses to go green?
Does it make sense for businesses to go green? It depends on who you ask and what you're talking about. I've posted before that going green seems to be synonymous with being expensive. People had to suck it up and take a hit financially in order to help protect the environment and practice sustainability. But the truth is, it will cost far more for future generations if we ignore the environment and continue with profit being our top priority.
It seems like the only option to help us move toward a greener future is to find solutions that both help the environment and save money. Lately the economy and job creation has become the main focus of the media. The "green collar jobs" that were supposed to be the darling of the economy ended up looking like more of a boon, since large solar companies that the government had invested in went bankrupt. But in reality, these companies that went under were only a few in a sea of many. Green jobs still have the potential to open new opportunities that create both a sustainable environment and a sustainable economy.
Our company, Green Future Construction, has a vision of this working in the future. Although only a small percentage of our clients are even interested in eco-friendly construction options, we try to educate them on what is available and how certain sustainable options may help save them money: now and over time. For example, using native plants may cost less and save you money on water usage over time, since they are built to survive in this environment without much maintenance.
For big businesses the results of small changes can add up fast. For example, reducing packaging saves companies money and reduces landfill waste at the same time. Little changes add up to big savings for large corporations.
In conclusion it is my belief that the future is making sustainable choices that also make sense economically. Without financial incentives many people and large businesses have no immediate reason to change their operating practices. By focusing on the environment we protect the earth for future generations without sacrificing profits today.
It seems like the only option to help us move toward a greener future is to find solutions that both help the environment and save money. Lately the economy and job creation has become the main focus of the media. The "green collar jobs" that were supposed to be the darling of the economy ended up looking like more of a boon, since large solar companies that the government had invested in went bankrupt. But in reality, these companies that went under were only a few in a sea of many. Green jobs still have the potential to open new opportunities that create both a sustainable environment and a sustainable economy.
Our company, Green Future Construction, has a vision of this working in the future. Although only a small percentage of our clients are even interested in eco-friendly construction options, we try to educate them on what is available and how certain sustainable options may help save them money: now and over time. For example, using native plants may cost less and save you money on water usage over time, since they are built to survive in this environment without much maintenance.
For big businesses the results of small changes can add up fast. For example, reducing packaging saves companies money and reduces landfill waste at the same time. Little changes add up to big savings for large corporations.
In conclusion it is my belief that the future is making sustainable choices that also make sense economically. Without financial incentives many people and large businesses have no immediate reason to change their operating practices. By focusing on the environment we protect the earth for future generations without sacrificing profits today.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Montgomery County Maryland Green Building Requirements
Just in case you didn't know, Montgomery County requires all new County funded buildings to acheive at least a LEED Silver rating. Here is a quote from their website:
"Montgomery County, Division of Building Design and Construction is committed to providing leadership which will foster conservation, protection and improvement of the environment by planning, designing, constructing and maintaining buildings that are energy efficient, environmentally friendly and resource-efficient.
In April 25, 2006 a bill was introduced, enacted Nov. 28, 2006 and become effective March 1, 2007 that requires the following for County built or funded buildings:
- Achieve at least a LEED-certified rating, or the equivalent, if its design is initially funded in the capital budget in Fiscal Year 2008. If its design is initially funded in Fiscal Year 2009 or later, a County-built or -funded building must achieve a LEED-silver or equivalent rating.
- If a County-built or -funded building is not included in the capital budget, the building must achieve a LEED-silver rating or the equivalent if its building permit application is filed on or after either one year after the Council approves the implementing regulations; or September 1, 2008, whichever occurs first.
- To view the regulations, please visit the Department of Permitting Services.
The LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Green Building Rating System was developed by the United State Green Buildings Council (USGBC). It identifies criteria that positively impact the energy and environmental characteristics of a building, including sustainability of a site, water efficiency, energy efficiency, materials and resources, and indoor environmental quality."
(http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/mcgtmpl.asp?url=/content/DGS/DBDC/Index.asp)
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Summer Savings
Ok, I know that at the beginning of summer you are probably thinking of your vacation not your taxes. But there are a lot of tax breaks available at the federal level to help you save money and go green at the same time. No is a great time to think about these tax benefits because it gives you enough time to plan and apply for the credits. Maybe you could use the extra green you save by spending a few extra days on the beach. Here are a few ways you can use these tax benefits to your advantage:
1. Start improving your home:
1. Start improving your home:
Energy saving air conditioning, insulation, new windows, can all qualify for a tax credit of up to $500, or 10% of the installation costs. There are a few stipulations, however, you can't claim the credit if you have claimed $500 or more in home energy credits in the past. The amount of credit the government offers has decreased over the years so make sure you take advantage of it before it is gone!
2. Electric Cars
Out with the hybrids in with the plug-ins! You can get a $7,500 tax credit if you purchase a new plug-in electric vehicle. The credit can only be used to reduce the taxes you pay and can not be refunded or carried forward.
3. Residential Charging Stations:
But how will you keep your new electric car ready to roll? You're in luck! There is a 2011 federal tax credit for installing a residential electric car charger. The credit is good for up to 30% off the installation costs up to $1000. This credit is only good until the end of 2011, so this is another one to take advantage of ASAP.
4.Car Conversion:
Not interested in buying a new car? Why not convert your gas-guzzler to a more efficient electric car. Install a conversion kit and you get a tax credit for 10% of the costs up to $4000. This is another credit set to expire at the end of 2011 so act fast.
5. Home Solar
Air conditioning on high blast making those electric bills soar? If you install solar panels, you get a tax credit of 30% off the total price. To make the deal even sweeter, the credit can be rolled over to apply to next years taxes if you can't use it all at once. The solar panel credit doesn't expire until 2016, but since installation is a long process, you might want to start thinking about it now.
I'd love to find more ways to go green, if you have some please share!
Out with the hybrids in with the plug-ins! You can get a $7,500 tax credit if you purchase a new plug-in electric vehicle. The credit can only be used to reduce the taxes you pay and can not be refunded or carried forward.
3. Residential Charging Stations:
But how will you keep your new electric car ready to roll? You're in luck! There is a 2011 federal tax credit for installing a residential electric car charger. The credit is good for up to 30% off the installation costs up to $1000. This credit is only good until the end of 2011, so this is another one to take advantage of ASAP.
4.Car Conversion:
Not interested in buying a new car? Why not convert your gas-guzzler to a more efficient electric car. Install a conversion kit and you get a tax credit for 10% of the costs up to $4000. This is another credit set to expire at the end of 2011 so act fast.
5. Home Solar
Air conditioning on high blast making those electric bills soar? If you install solar panels, you get a tax credit of 30% off the total price. To make the deal even sweeter, the credit can be rolled over to apply to next years taxes if you can't use it all at once. The solar panel credit doesn't expire until 2016, but since installation is a long process, you might want to start thinking about it now.
I'd love to find more ways to go green, if you have some please share!
Friday, January 14, 2011
Tips for Hiring Landscape Contractors
Most home owners will hire a landscape contractor to perform work on their yard at some time or another. However, finding a trustworthy professional to do the work is important, since this person will have access to your property. Landscaping, especially patio, walkway and retaining wall construction can be costly, so it is important that the contractor you hire knows what they are doing and operates legally to avoid any potential problems. Still, many home owners do not know what to look for when hiring a contractor, so here is a list of key requirements home owners should keep in mind when hiring a landscape contractor:
1. Make sure the contractor is licensed. Any work over $300 is required to be done by a licensed contractor in the state of Maryland. Contractors should be able to provide you with their MHIC (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) license number. Tree service professionals in Maryland should have a Maryland Tree Expert license number. You can also look contractors up on the DLLR website and DNR website.
2. Insurance. Make sure your contractor carries liability and workers comp insurance when required. If any damages do occur, you want to make sure you are covered.
3. Check for complaints with the BBB. Search the BBB for complaints on a contractor, companies are given grades based on the number of complaints received. Only use companies with a grade of A- or better.
4. Get References. Landscape contractors should be able to provide you with a list of customer references that have had similar projects done. If a contractor is not willing to provide references, they either don't have experience, or don't have any satisfied customers.
5. Get a few quotes. Get a few quotes from different sources. Review the different policies and prices for the quotes. Remember, budget is important but it shouldn't be the only factor. You want a landscape contractor who is reliable and offers quality work as well. a good landscaper will be able to work within a budget. Also keep in mind that by law, contractors can only ask for a down payment of 1/3 the total price of the project.
6. Use a Contract. Contracts are their to protect you, the buyer, and the contractor. Make sure you have all the work to be performed written in a signed agreement. Review the details and ask questions about guarantees and customer satisfaction policies.
7. Follow Your Gut. If something seems fishy, it probably is. Don't get swayed by price cuts or fancy add-ons. You want to feel comfortable with the landscape contractor you are working with.
Remember, landscaping can be a large expense. In order to get the most bang for your buck, make sure that you hire a trusted professional.
1. Make sure the contractor is licensed. Any work over $300 is required to be done by a licensed contractor in the state of Maryland. Contractors should be able to provide you with their MHIC (Maryland Home Improvement Commission) license number. Tree service professionals in Maryland should have a Maryland Tree Expert license number. You can also look contractors up on the DLLR website and DNR website.
2. Insurance. Make sure your contractor carries liability and workers comp insurance when required. If any damages do occur, you want to make sure you are covered.
3. Check for complaints with the BBB. Search the BBB for complaints on a contractor, companies are given grades based on the number of complaints received. Only use companies with a grade of A- or better.
4. Get References. Landscape contractors should be able to provide you with a list of customer references that have had similar projects done. If a contractor is not willing to provide references, they either don't have experience, or don't have any satisfied customers.
5. Get a few quotes. Get a few quotes from different sources. Review the different policies and prices for the quotes. Remember, budget is important but it shouldn't be the only factor. You want a landscape contractor who is reliable and offers quality work as well. a good landscaper will be able to work within a budget. Also keep in mind that by law, contractors can only ask for a down payment of 1/3 the total price of the project.
6. Use a Contract. Contracts are their to protect you, the buyer, and the contractor. Make sure you have all the work to be performed written in a signed agreement. Review the details and ask questions about guarantees and customer satisfaction policies.
7. Follow Your Gut. If something seems fishy, it probably is. Don't get swayed by price cuts or fancy add-ons. You want to feel comfortable with the landscape contractor you are working with.
Remember, landscaping can be a large expense. In order to get the most bang for your buck, make sure that you hire a trusted professional.
Monday, December 6, 2010
Charity work in Guatamala
Last week, Eli, the owner of Green Future Construction went to Guatemala to do charity work and learn about the culture of many of our workers. Guatemala is a country in Central America that can be described as having a "developing economy" and huge disparities in income. Although a peace accord was signed in 1996 to end armed conflict, violent crime is still a main concern. Extreme poverty has made many Guatemalans turn to violence and drug trade out of desperation.
Eli traveled around the country with 4 body guards and a bullet proof car, to protect himself, since many Americans fall victim to kidnappings. He stayed with some wealthy locals and had a chance to visit places tourists don't typically get to go, including one of the poorest villages in the country. While he was there, he and a few other companies raised $10,000 for the village and brought truck loads of food, candies, and supplies. The villagers lined up, waiting excitedly as trucks full of rice, corn, beans and candy pulled up one by one. Their anticipation was palpable as children chatted and adults buzzed, looking longingly at the sweets.
It felt great to give the donation to the needy village, but it was also apparent to Eli that this offering wasn't enough. Soon the food supply would be depleted again and the villagers lacked something essential to get themselves back on their feet. The village had other problems: women as young as 11 had children of their own, babies were growing up malnourished so that a 5 year old, Nelson, looked like a two year old and could not walk or talk, and any crops that the village tried to plant to sustain themselves, immediately died. When Eli inquired about the crop failure, he was informed that the villagers had cut all there trees down and sold them to make money, now when they try to farm, the crops get washed away because there are no trees to prevent erosion. Aside from the obvious environmental and economic problems of this community, it was obvious to him that at the root of these problems was lack of education.
If the villagers were better educated, young women would wait to have children and would be more likely to develop skills or a career that could help them support their family. If they had been educated, they may have realized that cutting down the trees would result in crop failure. Education would also provide more opportunities for growth and jobs. The same is true here. Education is at the root of a changing future and it seems that more emphasis should be placed on the environment considering how it impacts almost all aspects of our daily lives.
We encourage all of our clients, friends, and families to do what they can to help people in need, but also to remember that the focus of the aide should ideally be on long term solutions including educational programs. Remember the old adage, give a man a fish, he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he will eat for life.
www.greenfutureus.com
301-603-1080
Eli traveled around the country with 4 body guards and a bullet proof car, to protect himself, since many Americans fall victim to kidnappings. He stayed with some wealthy locals and had a chance to visit places tourists don't typically get to go, including one of the poorest villages in the country. While he was there, he and a few other companies raised $10,000 for the village and brought truck loads of food, candies, and supplies. The villagers lined up, waiting excitedly as trucks full of rice, corn, beans and candy pulled up one by one. Their anticipation was palpable as children chatted and adults buzzed, looking longingly at the sweets.
It felt great to give the donation to the needy village, but it was also apparent to Eli that this offering wasn't enough. Soon the food supply would be depleted again and the villagers lacked something essential to get themselves back on their feet. The village had other problems: women as young as 11 had children of their own, babies were growing up malnourished so that a 5 year old, Nelson, looked like a two year old and could not walk or talk, and any crops that the village tried to plant to sustain themselves, immediately died. When Eli inquired about the crop failure, he was informed that the villagers had cut all there trees down and sold them to make money, now when they try to farm, the crops get washed away because there are no trees to prevent erosion. Aside from the obvious environmental and economic problems of this community, it was obvious to him that at the root of these problems was lack of education.
If the villagers were better educated, young women would wait to have children and would be more likely to develop skills or a career that could help them support their family. If they had been educated, they may have realized that cutting down the trees would result in crop failure. Education would also provide more opportunities for growth and jobs. The same is true here. Education is at the root of a changing future and it seems that more emphasis should be placed on the environment considering how it impacts almost all aspects of our daily lives.
We encourage all of our clients, friends, and families to do what they can to help people in need, but also to remember that the focus of the aide should ideally be on long term solutions including educational programs. Remember the old adage, give a man a fish, he eats for a day, teach a man to fish and he will eat for life.
www.greenfutureus.com
301-603-1080
Monday, November 8, 2010
Fall landscaping
Ah Autumn! The crisp fall air, the comforting scent of apple cider and pumpkin pie, the warmth of family and the glorious colors of changing leaves. If you are lucky enough to live in our area: Maryland, the mid-Atlantic region, you get to see all of the seasons in a distinct progression, and for many of us fall is a favorite. Fall offers mild temperatures with the warm energy of food and family to keep the incoming winter chills at bey.
Fall is also a great time to prepare your house and yard for the harsh frost, snow and ice of winter. Before you nestle into your cozy sofa to enjoy your spiced cider by the fire, there are a few keys to protecting your house and yard and prevent the banes of winter weather.
Ice and leaves can put a burden on gutters. That's why fall is an optimal time to get the gutters cleaned and ensure that they are sturdy and in good working condition. Leaves and Ice can clog and weigh down gutters, not only causing over flow and water damage, but also putting them in danger of collapsing. A good gutter cleaning is relatively inexpensive and can save you money in the long run by preventing future damage.
Ice and snow can also pose a problem for roofing. Any leaks or weak spots will be exacerbated by the heavy snow and ice. Nobody wants to deal with a collapse roof, or a leaky ceiling in the middle of winter, especially when snow and ice can make roof access dangerous and difficult. Replacing your roof or repairing any damage in the fall is ideal. Also, the government is offering tax rebates until January 2011 for certain roofing material with a high SRI. If you are thinking about going solar, now is an ideal time too. Using the suns energy will help you save on heating, and most systems pay for themselves in about 5 years with the rebates the government is offering for installation.
Few people enjoy raking, but it really is necessary to maintain the health of your lawn. Like us, grass needs to "breathe," and it can be smothered if a thick layer of leaves is left on top of them over the winter, causing problems such as snow mold. Also, some grasses are cool season grasses, which revitalize themselves in the fall. The fallen leaves can inhibit this process, which can harm your lawn. Leaves are also a safety hazard, and can be slippery if left wet on walkways and sidewalks. Thus, leaf removal is an important fall task for both lawn care and safety. To make leaf removal more eco-friendly, shred the leaves and use them for mulch, and avoid using plastic bags to haul them away.
Finally, a nice yard clean-up with mulch and annual flowers like mums can add a fresh look to your home, as the deciduous and seasonal plants start dying. Since fall is a season of family and festivals, giving your yard a makeover will help your home stand out and look more welcoming. Mulch and flowers will also help absorb storm water run-off making them a nice sustainable option.
As fall turns to winter make sure you are prepared by implementing a few environmentally friendly preparation options.
www.greenfutureus.com
Fall is also a great time to prepare your house and yard for the harsh frost, snow and ice of winter. Before you nestle into your cozy sofa to enjoy your spiced cider by the fire, there are a few keys to protecting your house and yard and prevent the banes of winter weather.
Ice and leaves can put a burden on gutters. That's why fall is an optimal time to get the gutters cleaned and ensure that they are sturdy and in good working condition. Leaves and Ice can clog and weigh down gutters, not only causing over flow and water damage, but also putting them in danger of collapsing. A good gutter cleaning is relatively inexpensive and can save you money in the long run by preventing future damage.
Ice and snow can also pose a problem for roofing. Any leaks or weak spots will be exacerbated by the heavy snow and ice. Nobody wants to deal with a collapse roof, or a leaky ceiling in the middle of winter, especially when snow and ice can make roof access dangerous and difficult. Replacing your roof or repairing any damage in the fall is ideal. Also, the government is offering tax rebates until January 2011 for certain roofing material with a high SRI. If you are thinking about going solar, now is an ideal time too. Using the suns energy will help you save on heating, and most systems pay for themselves in about 5 years with the rebates the government is offering for installation.
Few people enjoy raking, but it really is necessary to maintain the health of your lawn. Like us, grass needs to "breathe," and it can be smothered if a thick layer of leaves is left on top of them over the winter, causing problems such as snow mold. Also, some grasses are cool season grasses, which revitalize themselves in the fall. The fallen leaves can inhibit this process, which can harm your lawn. Leaves are also a safety hazard, and can be slippery if left wet on walkways and sidewalks. Thus, leaf removal is an important fall task for both lawn care and safety. To make leaf removal more eco-friendly, shred the leaves and use them for mulch, and avoid using plastic bags to haul them away.
Finally, a nice yard clean-up with mulch and annual flowers like mums can add a fresh look to your home, as the deciduous and seasonal plants start dying. Since fall is a season of family and festivals, giving your yard a makeover will help your home stand out and look more welcoming. Mulch and flowers will also help absorb storm water run-off making them a nice sustainable option.
As fall turns to winter make sure you are prepared by implementing a few environmentally friendly preparation options.
www.greenfutureus.com
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