Tuesday, December 2, 2008

Greening Your Holiday Shopping - Part 1

Dear Deborah

I want to have a “green” holiday season, as in I want to be very conscientious about what I buy and of course how much I spend! Can you help me make better decisions and keep within a tight budget?
Courtney from Big Sur.

Dear Courtney,

Good timing.... holiday shopping has begun and I think many people are wondering the same thing. Greening the holidays or creating “ environmentally sustainable” holidays literally translates to lowering your ecological footprint during the holidays… and still having an excellent time.

Ecological footprint
We’ve talked about our ecological footprint in the blog dated July 24th, 2008, but basically it’s the amount of natural resources used to support our lifestyle. This includes land, water, timber, minerals, etc. With the Earth sagging under the pressures of so many people... the less we use, the less it has to provide. You can go here to measure your footprint.

During the holidays we’re eating/drinking/gift giving/ decorating/ traveling…. Just like we’re doing the rest of the year but we’re escalating all of those activities, and as a result our ecological footprint is also escalated….

So slow it down... but by how much?
How much you put the breaks on these activities would depend on your own personal convictions….
100% would mean a very lean holiday, possibly the better choice at this moment in our ecological history, but not very fun….
0% would be pointless and probably not of interest to anyone reading this blog…. You’re reading this because you want to make a change.
I suggest somewhere in the middle. This gives you alot of wiggle room to make changes as best as you can….the more you can do the better, but even little changes count.

A system to help make good green decisions
I have developed a system to help you make best choices for stepping a little lighter and lowering your holiday footprint. The system is actually an acronym which you can carry in your mind and have it with you when you’re shopping and making purchasing choices….

TIPTOES (as in walking softly through the holidays)

T = Territory
I = In Season
P = Plastic Free / Packaging free
T = Talent and Trade
O = Organic
E = Endowments
S = Simple, savings, self sufficient

But what does it mean?

Territory
Where does the product or service come from? Always choose from your local territory first, then look to the surrounding area, then your region, then state, then country and then globe. Think in concentric circles around your house. Shop in zone 1 first, that’s your direct neighborhood, zone 2 is your town, zone 3 your region, zone 4 state, zone 5 country, zone 6 world. The more you shop in zone 1, the better off you are. As a side note, if you're into permaculture, you'll see similarities in philosophy, if you're not check it out!

Example 1. Buying flowers for the hostess of a party your attending?
First try to buy them from the farmers market, if not get them from a local flower shop, if not from a local, independent retailer, use a service like FTD florists last.

Example 2. What about a high tech item? A new Wii for the kids? Find a business who’s with in walking distance of your house who sells them. I know my local Blockbuster does. They’re not an independent business, but they hire local people and pay local taxes. I would choose them over driving to a store 30 miles from my house, where the money I spend gets filtered out of my community completely.

In Season
This applies to food purchasing... shop for foods that are in season around your home. If a recipe calls for pineapples, try to substitute for pomegranates... they’re in season around the holidays so they’re easy to find and haven’t traveled very far to get here. Pineapples have to be shipped to us from regions down south.... that’s lots of oil and lots of CO2 emissions. In season will be fresh, more nutritious and taste better.

Plastic Free/Packaging Free
Plastics are being linked to breast cancer, and play a major roll in the garbage dumps in the worlds oceans....and most can’t be recycled.... look over my blog dated August 24th.
Example 1: If you’re going for a toy for your little cousin... like a set of blocks, get wooden ones.

Example 2: What about a set of picnic goblets for your neighbors back yard party? Glass. Definitely. Maybe even cool retro ones from a vintage store.

And packing is a huge problem in landfills, our garbage increases by 25% during the winter holidays. Why do we need a pair of scissors to be double wrapped in a plastic container that we can’t even open unless we have a pair of scissors? Be bold and leave the packaging at the store and tell them to pay the garbage bill.

Talent and Trade
Use local talent, as in local artists. A healthy community supports it’s artists. Looking for a picture frame for grandma? Pop into an artist co-op and see if they have one in your budget range. It has life in it, it has craftsmanship, it has good juju. Maybe you’ll even find a great pair of earrings for your sister.

As for trade, what I mean by that is Fair Trade. Say your boss loves coffee and you decide to get her a bag of beans from your local coffee shop... great! Ask them if the coffee has been fair trade certified, meaning the growers have been paid a living wage for their work. It’s important... we all want to be fairly paid for our efforts. that’s social justice which sits right next to ecological justice.

Organic
No matter what you’re buying, the less pesticides it uses; the better. We have dead zones in the oceans and unprecedented levels of cancer in our bodies... as much as we can buy organic, the better. It helps with habitat restoration, it helps raise healthy farm animals and it helps beneficial insects like honey bees. We can buy organic sheets, organic towels and even organic clothes, as well as the usual suspects like organic veggies and fruits.. look for them, see if they fit the budget and go there, if you can. If you can only buy one organic item this holiday, it’s better then none.
PS. Farmers markets have good prices and organic from China isn’t saving the planet much.... the carbon emissions from all that travel cancel out any perceived benefit.

Endowments
It’s a bit of a stretch, but it means shop and support charities when making purchases.
Are the local school kids raising money for a field trip and selling holiday cards? Buy them.
Is the Animal Shelter selling calendars or umbrellas? Buy them.
How about organizations like Heifer International? Make a donation to them in the name of your Great Aunt who doesn’t need any gift cause she already owns two of everything, and some family somewhere in the world gets a much needed gift instead.

Simple, Saving, Self Sufficient
Easy...Simple.... the lower down on the production complexity level the better... less resources in creating it. Such as a photo album versus an electronic photo display.
Saving... don’t go into hawk to buy stuff... with the all the economic stresses we have right now, it’s best to stay in the green. This holiday think “I’m going to be... debt-free!”
Self-sufficient... I’m actually going to write more about this next week... but think about gifts that give your friends some level of self sufficiency.
Examples: a fishing rod, a hand-crank ice cream maker, a worm compost, an electric bike (that’s for that really special friend... yourself!).

Got some good ideas now? Hopefully you can make greener shopping choices by “Tiptoeing” this winter; ultimately stepping more lightly on the planet and creating sustainable holidays. And most importantly... remember to have a fantastic time!

Cheers!
deb

Saturday, November 15, 2008

Last show (for now)


Yes we have had the last show for the foreseeable future on AM radio.
We've made around 471 shows, with the help of many.
Possible Sunday shows after the new year.
Billy Sunshine likes the small oriented shows best.(small homes, etc.)
This has been revolutionary talk radio.
Deb will be a PG city council member. Perhaps a crown and septor? Your Eminence.
Remember,"the wind is still free"
Special thanks go out to;
KRXA
General Manager Hal Ginsberg "no holds barred programming"
Larry Wrathal Sales Manager
Carl the Engineer
Spencer Lindsay
Olana Sullivan for Assisting production as well as the Green Scene calender and help booking special guests
Carl Dobbratz for the theme song (Tomorrow Matters)
All our listeners, everywhere
All the local independent musicians.

The specialty hosts;
Joy Colango
Monterey Salinas Transports Hunter Harvath
Benjamin Fahrer
Lydia Neilson
Spencer Lindsay

Our excellent sponsors;
Monterey Salinas Transit
Monterey Green Business Program
Renovations
Passion Purveyors
Pilgrims Way
Tree Of Life Ecological Services
Serendipity Farms
The greener Cleaners
Otter Bay Wetsuits
SG Zimmerman & Associates
Solar Living Institute
Chelsea Green Press
Alliance of Communities for Sustainable Fisheries
All Etronics
Eco Design Resources
Save Our Shores
Urban Permaculture Guild
Applied Solar Energy
Blue Line Power
The Green Team
Carmel Building and Design
June Zimmerman
Green Space

And thank you to our regular listeners;
Billy
Ben
Jeffs
Dan
Linda
John
Chris
Butcher
Mary
And many more.

Deborah's favorite show, (made her weep)
Briceshanay Gresham (Talkin' Water) after Hurricane Katrina, she felt Ashamed of being black. But after making the film, she does not feel that anymore.

Stay in the loop, sign up for Deb's Newsletter at, Deborahlindasy.com or E-mail her at Tomorrow@deborahlindsay.com

I feel honored to have the opportunity to assist in Production and to help with the Blog.

Deborah has opened our eyes to the Green possibilities. Now it's our turn, "Tag your it"
Thank You Deb,
Jeff

Friday, November 14, 2008

Monarch Alert



Jessica Griffiths, Monterey County Coordinator for Monarch Alert.
"Monarch Alert is a study of patterns of fall migration, wintering activity, and spring dispersal by monarch butterflies in western North America. The project includes: Study of seasonal abundance and habitat use in the northern half of their winter range, Tagging of monarchs at habitats in four counties. The tagging study will provide information about movement patterns at several spatial scales and with reference to several possible causal factors. Some of these factors include weather patterns, butterfly condition, and landscape constraints."

"In order to track patterns of fall migration and spring dispersal, thousands of monarchs will be tagged. Small tags weighing between 1/50th and 1/100th of the butterfly’s body weight are attached to the underside of its hindwing. This tag adheres without needing to rub off scales."

Monarch's are fog drinkers!
They Winter on our coast, spread from SF to So. Cal. (Winter Cycle 6-8 Months.)
Summer cycles 3-6 weeks, 3-4 times each summer, Inland to Central Valley and as far away as Colorado.
Monarch's use environmental triggers like birds.
Milk Weeds are a weed to farmers, they have been allowed to grow round up ready crops, reducing Milk Weed in the Central Valley, less butterflies. With reductions in wintering areas, numbers have declined.
They are very concerned about the LBAM spray, but the Monarch's seems to be OK (this year), so far!
Helen Johnson is a founder and main contributor to this cause.
Thanksgiving count started in 1997
199 sites for overwintering declining fast, populations from 1.2M to 100K due to decreases in habitat, disease and parasites.
Fires effected? Retardants? Habitats are destroyed, but monarchs are dispersed widespread in the summer when fire is an issue.
Pacific Coast Sanctuary has docents, 55F they are tightly clustered, hard to see, check it out! warmer is better, they are more active.
Molest a butterfly? it will cost you!!!! DO NOT Touch
Valentines day is a butterfly orgy!
Claspers on the male are used to carry the female into the trees for several hours of multiple matings!!!

What can we do?
Grow a butterfly garden, any Nectar plants are good.
Protect winter habitats
Save Milkweed habitats
Grow milkweed if you live inland
831-648-5716 X11 be a Docent
If you want to get involved in the Thanksgiving count E-Mail her
jessicagriffiths@ventanaws.org OR show up this Sat 7:30AM for a count Lighthouse at Ridge Rd in PG, bring a folding chair.
No previous experience necessary.

Jeff

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Water Water, not everywhere?


Doug Smith, Watershed Geologist
and an Associate Professor in the Division of Science and Environmental Policy at CSU Monterey Bay.
"The Watershed Geology Lab at CSUMB includes resources for physical and hydrologic watershed studies including sediment transport, geomorphology, and computer modeling. Doug Smith oversees undergraduate and graduate research in the Watershed Geology Lab. The Lab is used in connection with the adjacent Geology Teaching Laboratory to deliver high quality curricula and hands-on research opportunities to CSUMB students."
Predicting risks and assessing damages to certain areas, are Doug's profession and passion.
Basin complex Affected over 1000 small water sheds.
Costs and damages estimated $42.5M Indians fire, $77.2M fighting fires.
Water bars installed help to avoid soil runoff on the fire breaks, cut to control the Basin Complex fire.
Constant monatoring of the rivers, concerned about debris and flooding on the Big Sur, Carmel and Aroyo Seca rivers.
Culverts being watched closely to prevent flooding.
Watch for debris in rivers and creeks, stay on top of it! Unclog it if you can! Be careful! Stay safe!
Watch the weather, check your drainage situation before it rains!
.5" rainfall per. hour threshhold is your indicator of impending floods if you live on a flood plain or in a deep canyon.

Jeff

Wednesday, November 12, 2008

Plenty Magazine


Mark Spellun, Founder, Editor in Chief and Publisher at Plenty Magazine states,
"We’re steadily moving toward an era of cleaner technology, thanks to green-minded businesses and a new generation of visionaries. Americans have begun to follow their lead—and if the federal government does, too, we may get there sooner than we once thought." -Mark Spellun
Plenty 20 Companies mentioned, A123 systems ,IBM, Etc.
Speaking at GreenFest, SF.

Also mentioned,
What white people like book
Facebook Applicatins. green patch
Paul stammets Mushrooms save the world,
Mycelium Running book
Straw bales with mushrooms to remove hydrocarbons!
Gardner Martin Recumbant bikes in Watsonville .

Green media is getting popular, so far to good.

Jeff

Tuesday, November 11, 2008

Millennials Changing America


Alexander Steed, Millenniel Activist
"From October through November 2008, Alex will travel to over 30 cities across the United States to meet, interview and report how young people are using the Internet to leverage their social and political power. When I was a teenager, I was always inspired by interesting, accessible stories about what other young people were doing to better the world. Now I'm trying to contribute to that same narrative as a self-proclaimed millennial activists. Millennial Activists, also known as Social Citizens, are, according to social entrepreneur and writer Allison Fine, "young people ages 15-29 who practice a nascent model of civic participation that combines immersion in social causes, idealism, digital fluency." Traveling from the East to the West Coast, visiting everywhere in between, and returning again, I aim to convene the American youth, the next generation of this country's social and civic stewards."
Bloggers and young people thinking globally through technology.
Millennial Generation (Generation Y; those born between 1980 and 1992, defined by their digital connectivity)
Not just the young, just how you see through your kids eyes.

Some sites mentioned;
"Case Foundation" helps with matching grants
"Focus The Nation"
Face book/ Myspace is big/essentual
Unilever/ Youtube
"Millennial Makeover" book,
"Generation we" book
"Back to the land 2.0"
"Mycelium Running", by Paul Stamets
Seattle Works
Ryanishungery blog

WCWD
Use the internet more
Remember locals
Community interaction
CSA's
Participant Media


Donate and follow on his site, links to all the other blogs etc.

Use common sense on the internet, if you shred it, do not put it on the net.

Jeff

Saturday, November 8, 2008

Embodied Wisdom





Joy Colangelo - Editorial Writer for the Herald
Author of "Embodied Wisdom: What our anatomy can
teach us about the art of living" joined us in studio on Friday.
Some memorable thoughts,
Sustainable death, transitioning from intense care in a calm matter.
Dieing too sick, Too old, too weak
Our up-to-date Lifestyles are killing us, we need more physical activity
Risks abound in our society today.
Reduce risks by being active and eating properly.
Let's try a trash less lifestyle, just leave your trash at the store, they will reduce packaging eventually.
Don't let money rule your life, let your heart lead you.
Laughter is essential, make music.
Don't just watch, do it!
Try not to medicate, change your attitude.
Get to the bottom of your perceived problems, not through meds
Fever is the way your body fights virus.
Take personal responsibility.
It takes 4000 sq ft to grow all the food you need.
Change your environment, educate yourself!
Share things, like lawn mowers, shovels, rakes,
let go! let go! let go! let go! you will feel better!

Mentioned of the show;
Herrington Catalog P.30 Solar Christmas lights
Free-cycle!!!!!!!
350.org
Deloris park SF Free day, bring stuff to give, share till you feel good, let go!

What can we do?
Let go of some things, one at a time
Act now, don't stress the small stuff
Grow your orchard retirement plan
Start growing something now.
Create community in your neighborhood

Start your own tribe today, share resources, dance, fish,
garden, pot luck.
Use the knowledge of your tribe

Deborah's Green Scene Calender will continue

Jeff

Friday, November 7, 2008

Light Houses Studio and SLO Chai


Tracy Parker, Light Houses Designs Studio joined us in studio on Thursday.
Creating ecosystems not box-in box habatit.

What can we do?
Compost/worm bin
Fruit tree, edible plants, regenerative systems.
Take time to care, slow down
Allow yourself to Be part of nature
Winter crops, onions, lettice, Kales, Chard, Etc.

Tracy will be speaking at the Green Building Expo on Nov. 28, 2007 Monterey Conference Center
E-mail tracy@lighthousesdesign.com
831-236-6673



Joel Pace, Co- Founder Slo Chai joined us by phone from
San Luis Obispo, CA.
Organic fair trade teas.
Black teas, green teas and more.
After water, tea is the second most-consumed beverage in the world.
"What can Chai do for me?"
* Boosts immune system
* Aids digestion, increases metabolism
* Eases tension
* Provides mental clarity
* Excellent antioxidant source
They also have SLO Chai Cream Ale, sounds great, containes alcohol
Green festival partisipant SF
transfair.org
INFO: info@slochai.com
Call toll free, 877-324-7832

What can we do?
Drink chai, relax, take a moment, breathe...
Help somebody today!
Buy fair trade goods!

Jeff

Thursday, November 6, 2008

Dr. Kevin Danaher

Dr. Kevin Danaher,anti-globalization activist and author of “Building the Green Economy – Success Stories from the Grass Roots” joined us by phone.

Described by The New York Times as the "Paul Revere of globalization's woes," Dr. Kevin Danaher's analytical expertise, sense of humor and blunt eloquence make him an exceptionally dynamic speaker. Since co-founding Global Exchange in 1988, Dr. Danaher has spoken at hundreds of universities and for community organizations throughout the U.S. He conducts workshops on issues ranging from the dynamics of the global economy to how we can replace the power of transnational corporations with local green economy networks. A longtime critic of the so-called "free trade" agenda, Dr. Danaher explains how we can create 'grassroots globalization', empowering local communities to create sustainable local economies.
Kevin will be speaking at the West Coast Green expo ($15.00 or less)
and Monterey Green Building Expo Dec. 3

Mentioned on the show,
POCLAD org teaching rights
newrules.org
http://www.energyconservationinfo.org/20responses.pdf


What can we do?
Stop Big box stores, they kill mom&pops
Watch your planning commission carefully
Shop local, Shop green
Abort Corporate personhood!

On the campaign sign issues,
Just got a call from Jeffrey Smedberg,(Wed.) Santa Cruz County recycling
coordinator, impeccable timing.
Some campaigners are requesting their signs back for reuse, mostly the metal parts, the paper signs go in the recycle bins with the plastic bag signs.
The corrugated plastic indistructo (Polypropylene Co polymer) are being accepted at the SC drop-off sites (Dimeo Ln., Buena Vista and Ben Lomand)
Jeffrey also said that Bill Monning and John Leopold have made an issue of recycling their signs.

Jeff

Tuesday, November 4, 2008

The Buzz


Michael Neuert,of Neuert Electromagnetic Services joined us by phone.
EMFs are a type of low-frequency electromagnetic radiation commonly emitted from power lines, transformers, electrical wiring, computers, TVs, lights, clocks, appliances, hairdryers, cell phones, microwave ovens — virtually everything electrical around us. Nationally. telephone consultations with our electrical engineer, Michael Neuert, are our most popular service. Michael can answer all of your questions about EMFs — what meters to use, what levels are considered safe, how to trace and repair troublesome or hidden EMF sources, how to shield refrigerators and electrical panels, how to shield your computer, how to install special electrical wiring with almost no emissions, and many other concerns. Within California, Michael provides on-site services for the professional testing, shielding and reduction of EMFs. He will not only measure the EMFs, he can do the necessary engineering work to tell you exactly what you can do to reduce the EMFs.
What are the health concerns?
While there still is great controversy, studies suggest that EMFs may be linked to a variety of health problems including leukemia, lymphoma, brain and nervous system cancers, melanoma, breast cancer, miscarriage, birth defects, Alzheimer’s disease, Lou Gehrig’s disease, depression and suicide. Anecdotally, EMFs have been associated with symptoms such as nausea, headache, fatigue, anxiety, dizziness, mental confusion, memory loss, sleep disturbance, itchy or burning skin sensations, and skin rashes

Feel better during power failures?
Magnetic noise keeping you awake at night?
Does your head feel funny when using a cell phone?

Mentioned on the show,
Mercola.com (cell phone dangers)
bioinitiative
The Wireless Radiation Alert Network S.C. 688-4603

What can we do?
Sleep away from power sources,
Turn off computers and WiFi when not in use,
Pay attention to how you feel,
Rent a meter from Michael.

Jeff

Saturday, November 1, 2008

Halloween

Hunter Harvath, Monterey Salinas Transit's Director of Administration, joined us in studio, dressed as a Happy Clown.
The pressing of the Mustard seed has been delayed, due to grape crush, until Nov 18 in SC. The Pilot program Lacks funding, volunteers found to Build a press locally
Processing will be done in Gonzales
3000lb. of Mustard seed will make 800gal. of Biodiesel, Bio blended with conventional diesel to make 4000Gal. which will push a bus around 17,000 miles. (MST logged 3,249,965 miles total in '07')
Replanting Mustard soon, it's that time of the year.
California's state budget has cut 3M out of MST's 5.?M
The 2M left from the state, may be cut as well.
CountyIf Measure Z Passes it will bring 7M per. yr. to MST and add .5% sales tax hike in Monterey.
If NO Z, there may be 12.5% fare hikes or service cuts or both.
Check the TAMC website for info on "Z" dollar proposals.
Obama promises support for local transit.
E-mail Hunter, hharvath@mst.org

Spencer Lindsay joined us in studio as well, no costume.
Deb has announced retirement of the show on Nov.14.
Only 9 shows left on the AM dial, then Pod-cast maybe.
Spencer has closed the PG office full time and moved new biz to Santa Cruz.
Spencer is Now a Shift Captian at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. He has been helping since 1990 and he has volunteered 750 Hrs.
The new sustainable guide to Sushi was also discussed.
Poor fish farming practices creates mini dead zones spreading disease to wild fish stocks.

Get all the news that's fit to print!
Sign up for Deb's newsletter!!

You know what to do "TAG YOUR IT!!"

Jeff

Friday, October 31, 2008

Natural Rights

Elsa Dooling, Community Organizer for the Monterey Bay Area from Pesticide Watch, joined us in studio on Thursday.
Shannon Biggs is the director of the Local Green Economy program at Global Exchange. She recently co-authored a book, Building the Green Economy: Success Stories from the Grass Roots.
Ben Price, Project Director in the Community Environmental Legal Defense Fund's Corporations and Democracy Program.

Global Exchange rights-based organizer, Shannon Biggs, who partners with Elsa Dooling from CELDF to assist communities in passing these new laws, is blazing new ground in California: "Ecuador and U.S. communities—from Santa Cruz, California to rural Pennsylvania—are passing laws that assert the rights of nature to be wild, and boldly changing the way we protect the environment." Biggs is organizing with Monterey, Nevada City and Santa Cruz, which are among the first California communities working to pass local laws to change not only nature's legal status nature, but also its culture. Local Nevada City, California concerned resident Debra Weistar: "For 150 years, the entire Sierra Nevada mountain range has been exploited for profit. There is still a "gold rush" mentality here that implies that there are riches in these hills for the taking. Ecuador is leading the way on a national level, and it has created momentum that may evolve into a movement.

AMP Media was mentioned, Ben and Shannon will have discussions broadcasting on our local cable station
Telephone: (831) 333-1267 for information.

Elsa Dooling can be reached by E-Mail (Elsa@pesticidewatch.org) or call her at 831-236-8538

Ben and Shannon's Addresses are respictivly
Ben@globalexchange.org
Shannon@globalexchange.org

Assert your local rights!

Jeff

Thursday, October 30, 2008

YES on prop 2





Campaign Manager for Prop 2 and Humane Society's United States Chief Economist Jennifer Fearing, joined us Wednesday by telephone.

We need Basic minimum standards on the treatment of animals.
Now, laying hens have cages with a floor of wire, 2/3 the size of a piece of paper for several 4 lb. chickens. they cannot turn around or spread their wings.
Natural feed and environment brings better looking and tasting, more nutritious, chicken, eggs, beef, pork, etc.
"The current industrial farm animal production (IFAP) system often poses unacceptable risks to public health, the environment and the welfare of the animals themselves, according to an extensive 2½-year examination conducted by the Pew Commission on Industrial Farm Animal Production (PCIFAP), in a study released today."(04/29/2008)
Mentioned on the show,
"Norco ranch video, Mercy for animals"
Michael Pollan's book "Omnivors Dilema"
Downer cows to school lunch programs!!!
This practice led to a big beef recall!!
Labeling information

Communities are being polluted by these industries!
Unsafe foods are never a good deal!
Look through the lies!
Be outraged!

What can we do?
Use the 3 "R's"
Reduce the amount you consume,
Refine your use, buy cage free, antibiotic/hormone free, humane care standards, organic
Replacing, with other proteins.
You can E-Mail Jennifer ( jen@YESonProp2.com)

Jeff

Wednesday, October 29, 2008

Crude Impact




James Wood, Producer, Director, Crude Impact, joined us by phone on Tuesday.

Link


"Crude Impact is an award-winning documentary film which Chris Vernon of TheOilDrum.com called " a terrific film... the best documentary I have seen on the subject." This feature film explores the interconnection between human domination of the planet, and the discovery and use of oil. Crude Impact has been an official selection at over thirty film festivals around the world and has won numerous awards. The film has been translated in to French, Spanish and Czech. Crude Impact was awarded the Best Environmental Feature Film at the 3rd Annual Artivist Film Festival in Los Angeles. The film screened at the famous Egyptian Theater on Hollywood Boulevard. Crude Impact captured the Grand Jury Prize at the 2nd Annual Cinestrat Film Festival in Finestrat, Spain."
"To produce Crude Impact, James assembled an inspired team with a common purpose, which included his wife and co-producer Jennifer Wood."
Trailer
Link TV
Another
The Pachamama Alliance
Hafsat Abiola

Books mentioned,
At Play in the Fields of the Lord (2pc) (1991)
Our ecological foot print
The Green Collar Economy
Ishmael: An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit

You Tube video by Peakmoment TV
Oil and Gas - The Next Meltdown?

Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP)

And, as Thom Hartman says "Tag your it!"

Jeff

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Yes on Prop 1A

Robert Cruickshank, proponent of Prop 1A joined us by phone on Monday.
His High speed rail blog
"220MPH bullet train/160,000 New construction jobs/450,000 non-out-soarcable maintenance jobs and divert average estimated 12 billion tons off Carbon Dioxide out of our atmosphere."
"2.5 hours from San Fransisco to Los Angelos."
More info.
Voterguide
Daily Kos
California High Speed Rail

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Within Reach


Ryan Milarsck and Mandy Criegton joined us via Pay-phone from L.A.
Ryan and Mandy are Co-producing/creating "Within Reach" from the road.
Some Youtube,
"Our Mission is to film and document how sustainable communities function throughout the United States. We will “bikepack” to the East Coast and back to California, using our custom design solar electric assist bike trailer. The result is a feature length documentary film, tentatively scheduled to release at the end of 2009. The film will present a realistic experience of seeking out and living as part of a sustainable community."

600 Mi. and counting 12,000 mile total, 1 year
Check out the Mind map Mandala from their July blog
Regenerative communities not just sustainable.
Funded by Organic Athelete, $17.000 donated so far

Templeton (dance of dears) project, Eco-villages
Santa Cruz ecovillage
Intentional Communities
Hope Dance
N st. Davis CA.
Spiral Dynamics

What can we do?
10 Ways to Take Action Now
Create your world, change your attitude, be happy, share
Trust yourself, Think right brain
Smile more, Bike more, your closer to the earth and people.

Jeff

Friday, October 24, 2008

Dreaming green?



Kathleen Sullivan, A Dream and Life Coach and a former radio host, joined us in studio on Thursday.
Pick up Kathleen's books: Recurring Dream Symbols and
Recurring Dreams , A Journey to Wholeness at your local book shop or online.
Dreams are a message from the deep innersole, you can reprogram intention.
Define your own terms for symbols, don't use just any Dream dictionary, create your own.
Call Kathleen (831-372-8534) for ongoing consultation in Pacific Grove.
Lucid dreaming, change what frightens you.
When you have a dream, discuss and write it down ASAP!!!
Jeremy Taylor's work was mentioned as well.

Clear your psykee!!

Jeff

Thursday, October 23, 2008


Will Craven, Media Officer for Forest Ethics, joined us by phone Wensday.
Support a Do Not Mail Registry
"Just as the Do Not Call Registry freed Americans from telemarketers, a Do Not Mail Registry would give us the choice to stop junk mailers from violating our privacy, wasting our time and damaging the environment."
Sign the petition!!!!!!!!!Send it to another friend!!
Halloween is a social time, use it to our advantage. Let's turn halloween green.

"Founded in 1994, Forest Ethics is a nonprofit environmental organization with staff in Canada, the United States and C­hile. Our mission is to protect Endangered Forests and wild places, wildlife, and human wellbeing – one of our focus areas is climate change, which compromises all of our efforts if left unchecked. We catalyze environmental leadership among industry, governments and communities by running hard-hitting and highly effective campaigns that leverage public dialogue and pressure to achieve our goals. Our current campaigns focus on wild places in Canada, Chile and in California’s Sierra, and on industries that use products that come from these places. Our efforts have transformed the environmental practices of Fortune 500 companies including Dell, Staples, Office Depot, Victoria’s Secret, Williams-Sonoma, and many others. In 2008, we launched two major new initiatives – Do Not Mail, which calls for a national registry to stop junk mail"
Do not mail.org registery
20% of global heating is associated with deforestation.

Forest Ethics is also fighting for the Boreal Forest in Canada,
400 ton trucks???
Some interesting links;
forestethics
tarsandswatch
greenpeace
guardian

You can E-mail Will anytime (Will@forestethics.org)

NOW THE BAD NEWS
Thursday thru Saturday
"Weather permitting, the Army will conduct a prescribed burn this week on nearly 140 acres at Fort Ord."
Call Sam Farr in protest (831-424-2229)
If you have ash for analasis call for help (831-521-6042 or 831-899-5716)
Be aware of the wind direction.
There has never been a Enviromental Impact Study done on this health risk!

Jeff

Wednesday, October 22, 2008

No on Z?


Blue Planet Run, a large "coffee table book" is the amazing pictorial documenting the race around the globe, to provide safe drinking water to the world.
Take the 30 mile challenge.
The Objectives:
"Provide safe drinking water to 200 million people by 2027."

"We run because, in the words of the Iroquois thanksgiving prayer printed on the baton we carry with us: "Water is life."

"We give thanks to all the Waters of the world for quenching our thirst and providing us with strength. Water is life. We know its power in many forms - waterfalls and rain, mists and streams, rivers and oceans. With one mind, we send greetings and thanks to the spirit of water."

"Now our minds are one."


Mentioned on the show today,
Obama's "Dreams of my father"


In the second segment
NO ON Z
Richard Rosenthal, (Monterey County)Measure Z opponent joined us in studio .

Sales tax is regressive (targets spenders)
A very extensive argument, with lots of information.

Jeff

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

Mardy McGraw, Green building Designer with emphasis on air Quality and Jim Stroupe, Green Architect joined us in studio on Monday.
"Every architect has their own way of doing things. They borrow from past employers and develop new ideas with each client. But childhood experience plays a big part in who we are. I grew up in an old stone farmhouse outside Philadelphia. My mom was an artist and my dad was a scientist. I discovered I wanted to be an architect in the third grade. I've spent my whole life designing spaces for people to live in. I've been a licensed architect in California since 1981, and a licensed general contractor since 1984. I've had over 200 projects built in the San Francisco Bay Area. I don't have one particular style, but enjoy tailoring each project to each client. I have no employees and enjoy doing everything myself. I do my own structural engineering, grading, and landscape design. I can help with all interior finishes and furnishings. I am not trying to get rich, I just want to do good work."
They shared their green checklist and preferred subcontractors with us.
Phone Mardy at 925-787-2471

What can we do?
Tube skylights, more windows, counter top windows
low/no VOC paints, recycled paint, more insulation under your floors.

Keith Severson, Marketing Service Manager With Graniterock, also joined us in studio, Keith is following the green trends in paving.
Improving water runoff issues with pervious concrete, VS impervious concrete. Pervious concrete looks like a rice crispy treat, water soaks in, instead of running off into storm drains, also gives the opportunity to design micro water tables to more effectively capture and recycle rain water.
Keith is also speaking at the ACEexpo.
Cal stones was mentioned, they have pavers that are also pervious

Other ways to recycle concrete is to recrush it for baserock use.
E-mail Keith with questions about pervious concrete and flyash issues.
Mainoffice@graniterock.com

Jeff

Friday, October 17, 2008










Beth H. Harrison, The Truth About GMO's.
"Genetically Engineered Food Quick Facts: No crops on the market today are genetically engineered to increase crop yield, resist drought, or reduce chemical fertilizer use. They haven't helped third world countries, they aren't feeding the world, and they haven't lowered food prices at all. GE food has never been proven safe for human consumption; scientists have no idea what it will do to people who eat it. There is a significant body of scientific evidence that has proven serious human health risks associated with it. As far as U.S. regulatory agencies are concerned, if a biotech company says its products are safe, that is enough for approval. Genetically engineered food is not labeled in the United States. At the same time, more than 40 countries have either banned GE food outright or have laws requiring the labeling of it giving citizens in those countries the freedom to choose not to eat it."
"The GOOD News?
You don’t have to eat GE food again. This book explores why and how you have been kept in the dark about GE foods and the risks, why these foods continue to go unlabeled, and outlines what foods to avoid and how to take action.
As a consumer, your dollars wield the most influence. Eating GE food contributes to multinational corporations that are interested in profits over your health."

Blog, shedding light on genetically engineered foods,

What can we do?
Don't buy GMO foods, use the power of your dollar
GMO's must be labeled, demand it! Be informed,
look at labels, call manufacturers, demand organic

Jeff

Thursday, October 16, 2008


Arlos Anderson, Grey Water Makes Cents
Our mission is to provide industry with its high tech water needs while providing clean drinking water to municipalities, villages and individuals.

Arlos will be speaking at the ACE Expo, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds event oct.25-26

Grey water recycling, tankless water heating systems, solar/tankless hybrids, hydronic heating and much more.
Get your discount today, just say you heard it on Tommorrow Matters.

Arlos is also involved in algae for bio-oil and The waste from our power plant (moss landing), combined with salt water, creating cement!!!
Workshops are offered, just drop Arlos an E-mail.
Turn halloween green! Stop junk mail!

What can we do?
Everyone can help, look to the future, educate, legislate.

These books were mentioned by our guest.
Rachel Carson's book, "Silent spring"

"Cadillac Desert", by Marc Reisner

"Collapse: How Societies Choose to Fail or Succeed" by Jared Diamond

Jeff

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Talkin' Water


Shannon Sonenstein, Director, Producer, Talkin' Water
and Briceshanay Gresham, 1 of the stars has joined us by telephone.
"Disillusioned by the media coverage of Hurricane Katrina, four girls –two from New Orleans and two from New York City– set out to tell the “real” story. Armed with video cameras and a sense of responsibility, the project quickly becomes personal as the girls explore issues of race, class and government – and are surprised to discover as much about themselves as New Orleans. Incorporating footage actually shot by the girls, Talkin’ Water follows the summer Rodneka, Suprena, Sade, and Briceshanay spent in New Orleans- exploring their feelings about Katrina, America and what it means to grow up in chaotic times."
Talkin' Water AKA speaking clearly, truthfully.
Thier trip was a very emotional learning experience for these 4 teens, they discovered discrimination and racism in government,
They found New Orleans still not rebuilt, Texas got help fast.
They also found hatred/bigotry upon returning to New Orleans.

A couple of memorable quotes,
Make lemonade from (life)lemons, you can do it! turn it around!
Don't miss the goodness!!!!!

Screening Fri. Oct 17, 7:30 showing at the Bioneers conferance, San Rafael, Marin Center

Another great film "Battle in Seattle" film is now playing (check your local listings)
Controlling world wide water supply with our tax dollars

PG post office has info on "do not send junk mail/ get off lists"
Please remove me from your mailing lists.
Send 3 letters, no more junk mail!!!

ADVO
Consumer Assistance
PO Box 249
Windsor, CT 06095

Mail Preference Service
C/O DMA
PO Box 90008
Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008

Direct List Technology, Inc.
1950 West Corporate Way
Anaheim, CA 92801-5373

Jeff

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Jeff Barrie joined us by phone on Friday
Jeff's Award-winning film Kilowatt Ours: A Plan to Re-Energize America is a timely, solutions-oriented look at one of America’s most pressing environmental challenges: energy. Filmmaker Jeff Barrie offers hope as he turns the camera on himself and asks, “How can I make a difference?” In his journey Barrie explores the source of our electricity and the problems caused by energy production including mountain top removal, childhood asthma and global warming. Along the way he encounters individuals, businesses, organizations, and communities who are leading the way, using energy conservation, efficiency and renewable, green power all while saving money and the environment. This often amusing and always inspiring story shows, “You can easily make a difference and here’s how!”
More info.
Kilowatt Ours will be on public TV (KQED SF) Check your local listings.

After burning all vegetation, 250' holes are drilled, explosives are dropped in (25 tons per day), then comes huge cranes and huge trucks instead of men mining.
This is an ecological disaster, causing flooding, many health issues, rising Asama rates
The facts.
1lb. coal= 1kwHr.=1.5 lb. co2
1 KwHr.= one 100 w bulb for 10 hours

What can we do?
Change your bulbs
New energy star appliances
Turn off all chargers and power sucking appliances, power strips make this easy.
Conserve heat and cooling with insulation.
Seal up windows and doors with weather stripping
Change your mind!

Jeff is now working on a new film "Peddling for a dream" biking across America.
Jeff

Friday, October 10, 2008

On Thursday's show,
Kelly Rivas and Deborah talk on Prop 7
"Requires all California utilities to meet renewable energy production standards that will help put California on the path to energy independence. Utilities will be required to produce electricity from solar and clean energy resources in the following percentages: 20% by 2010, 40% by 2020, and 50% by 2025. Replace half of the fossil fuels used for electricity generation in California with clean energy technologies such as solar, geothermal, wind, biomass, and small hydro. Does not raise taxes or have any fiscal impact on the state budget. Unlike today, all utilities -- including municipally owned utilities like Los Angeles Department of Water and Power -- will be required to comply with renewable energy laws. The Solar and Clean Energy Initiative creates high tech jobs and grows California's economy. Construction and maintenance workers on clean energy plants will be paid a prevailing wage. Solar electric plants generate between 160% and 720% more jobs than a natural gas fired plant."
Some interesting sites,

Website about fast-track permitting timeline for caller Spencer:

Blog explaining opposition:

California Secretary of State Website for campaign expenditures:

Personally I just don't know yet!
I'll be Googling both sides in the weeks to come.
This issue needs more investigation.
Jeff

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Wednesday

Nina Simmons joined us by telephone,
Nina is Co-Founder and co-producer Bioneers’ annual conference.
This year, she began co-teaching a workshop called Cultivating Women’s Leadership,
to brainstorm about envisioning a broad progressive women’s movement with environment at its heart. The gathering served as an incubator, resulting in the formation of CodePink: Women for Peace.
She previously served as president of Seeds of Change.
In 2002 Nina produced a retreat for diverse women leaders called UnReasonable Women for the Earth, to brainstorm about envisioning a broad progressive women’s movement with environment at its heart.
In 2006, she and her husband and partner Kenny Ausubel, (also Bioneers Co-Founder, and co-produced Bioneers’ annual conference), were awarded the Green Cross Millennium Award for Community Environmental Leadership.

What can we do?
Inspire people to innovate, reinvent, redesign and transform.
Stay connected with your joy, don't freak-out, follow your joy, follow your passion.
The Environment is the mother of all innovation.
Use your 10 year goggles.
Find Indigenous knowledge, localization is the key.
Story telling works well, reach into their own experiences,
Kill your TV, I did!
Jeff

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Wow

Gary Paul Nabhan, Ph.D., is a writer, Seedsman, lecturer and world-renowned conservation scientist. He is the outgoing Director of the Center for Sustainable Environments at Northern Arizona University, where he catalyzed the Canyon Country Fresh regional food initiative (())on the Colorado Plateau.
Gary Paul Nabhan is Director, Center for Sustainable Environments, and Tenured Professor, Applied Indigenous Studies and Environmental Sciences, Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Arizona, his alma mater.




Gary Nabhan, Where our Food Comes From, In his book, he weaves together Nikolai Vavilov's extraordinary story with his own expeditions to Earth's richest agricultural landscapes and the cultures that tend them.
Has keynoted over 100 national and international research and conservation conferences in 6 countries and 43 states, has guest-lectured at 40 universities and colleges
I found 72 books that he has written that seem to be in print, one that caught my eye, Tequila!: A Natural and Cultural History




Gary Paul Nabhan, prize-winning author and naturalist, lives in Flagstaff. He is the director of conservation biology at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum and cofounder of Native Seeds.

Gary is Speaking in Capitola Nov 13 Book cafe

He is also speaking at The Bioneers conferance oct. 17-19 and Green Festival in SF


Wild Farm Alliance and Roots of Change were also mentioned, got more info.

Monsanto investigation book Coming Home to Eat: The Pleasures and Politics of Local Foods

Seed diversity is a strategy for survival.
32 countries are having food riots NOW, due to too little food
Corn meal has doubled in a year and a half, HERE
There are 1200 types of apples, not many in the stores/farmers markets I've been to find.
There are 1000 foods in danger of being extinct, due to processing and shipping problems
Local food management seems to be the ticket to bio-diversity
Farmers are generally dynamic, responding to adversity, natural obstacles and global warming.

What can we do?
Get involved
Garden at home
Buy fair trade items
Use your local Farmers market

Jeff

Politics today

Our scheduled guest was unable to be with us today.
Instead, we have Robert Cruickshank in studio. E-mail him Robert@calitics.com
Talking about politics is not a "normal" topic for Tomorrow Matters.
Politics does play a big role in being green.
Robert is the Acting Media Director for the
Monterey County Democrats.
Monday is the first day to vote "get out the vote" Early voting Now, Monterey County Election Department, 1370 B South Main St., Salinas
We now have 1 month to vote, compared to 1 day in previous years.
Michael Moore says, ask friends and neighbors if they are registered to vote.
His movies online (slacker uprising)(election day the movie.com)
Lots more young people are registering than ever before. (20% increase?)
We seem to agree that election day should be a paid holiday!
Voter guide http://montereycountydemocrats.org/
More Info. http://www.smartvoter.org/

What can we do?
Get involved, put pressure on our elected officials.
Vote with your dollars.
Talk to your family, friends and neighbors as partners.
Shop sustainably and locally.
Community gardens, barbaques etc. to bring people together
Get involved in your community.
Phone banking?
Be a poll watcher or worker, help non-mobile persons to get to and from the polls, observe counting See ?
Defend your rights, VOTE!

Jeff

Saturday, October 4, 2008

Manyrivers Collective

Kristen ManyRivers and Kem White of Manyrivers Collective joined us by telephone
Manyrivers Collective is a rainwater harvesting business in Santa Cruz County. Partner Kem White is an ecological landscape artist, accomplished herbalist and mother.

Collection, filtering, conveying water(pumping)and site specific storage are some of the hurdles they overcome at Manyrivers Collective

The solar pump mentioned is very cool.

Potters for peace

Rainwater Harvesting for Drylands (Vol. 1): Guiding Principles to Welcome Rain into Your Life And Landscape

Here comes the rain and I'm not ready!

24" annuel rainfall
1000 sq.ft. roof
12,600 gallons of rain water each year.
The complex that I work in is around 80,000 sq.ft.
My math may be a little off, but I came up with 720,000 gal!
That's a lot of water!!! Where am I going to put it all?

What can we do?
Shower with a friend, turn off water when soaping.
Water when it's cool outside to prevent evaporation.
Check your water system for leaks.
Support small farms that manage water well.

Jeff

Friday, October 3, 2008

Bill McKibben




Bill McKibben joined us from an Dulles Airport DC, he has written a powerful book "Deep Economy"
"In this powerful and provocative manifesto, Bill offers the biggest challenge in a generation to the prevailing view of our economy."
Bill is also the founder of the step-it-up foundation,and is also involved in 350.org
350PPM maximum carbon in our air (At 387PPM now) 275PPM safe(history)
Bill has 12 books I can find!
Another book, "The Bill McKibben Reader"

More books from Bill
Bill is a frequent contributor to various magazines
What can we do to help?
We need vast changes in near no time
Build a movement
Organize locally and post to Internet for world viewing,
Change politics locally,
energy Centralizing, Local food,
Local currencies, local purchases,
Manufacturing back to locals,
Smaller families,
Manage decline gracefully.

Next week is ride-share week, so carpool as much as possible!

Jeff

Thursday, October 2, 2008

Shoshone sisters

George and Beth Gage joined us by phone.
Playing at the Bioneers conference film fest, the film "Our Land, Our Life."
"Carrie and Mary Dann, two elderly Shoshone sisters, are engaged in a thirty-year battle for rights to their own land."
"This is a film that reveals shocking information about crimes that continue to be committed against Native Americans."

1974 Feds seized land
, rounded up livestock, let animals starve to death!
1863 treaty "peace and friendship" of (16 million acres)ruby valley, the feds needed passage through the land.

Bureau of Land Management
said Shoshones were tresspassing!and they owed US big money!
Shashone shared lands, feds say no, your over grazing
Massive round-ups from early 90's to 2004
over 1000 heads stolen by BLM, Horses dieing from starvation.
Yucca mountain (NV) AKA Snake mtn. is holy land with burial grounds and other ritual areas.
Land grants for big business interests, Nuclear waste depository and mining for gold.
US sued Carrie and Mary, went to the Supreme court, determined to have lost land.
In 2006 UN decided in favor of the Indians, human rights violation
2006 Geneva visit, went positive, Hope, validation from delegation
US gave no positive response still disagrees with the UN
What can we do to help?
wsdp.org
Spread the word about the film,
Look deeply for the truth, learn about others,
Vote!!!!!
Public support/outcry
Participate in gatherings
Be aware that Shoshone rights are still being steeped on so badly.
Special rules for indigenous peoples?

Jeff

Wednesday, October 1, 2008

A GREATER VISION



Tuesday, Dr. Marylou Shockly,, Chair of the School of Business at CSUMB , joined us in studio. she is also a Board member of Shipper-Grower Foundation
More info
And more info
"A GREATER VISION: THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE STEWARDSHIP
Friday, October 3, 2008 from 9:00am-Noon FREE/donation
"Join us for a discussion defining sustainability from legislative and economic perspectives as well as the future of local agriculture and careers in that field."
For reservations for the seminar call the CSUMB Special Events hotline 831-582-4001, or email specialevents@csumb.edu.

Another resource mentioned by Marylou, Cannibals with Forks: The Triple Bottom Line of 21st Century Business.

Did you realize that Agriculture is a 3 billion dollar industry locally?

What can WE do???
It's a great time to support local Agriculture
Express yourself to politicians
Vote!!!
Attend forums
Get involved

Jeff

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

Urban Re-Vision


On Mondays show,
Stacy Frost, Founder of Re:Vision joined us by telephone

From harnessing Kids power at play, to gravity powered lighting, Re:vision is challenging people through "COMPETITIONS FOR VISIONARY THINKERS"

"Growing people, not buildings"

"Why Re:Vision? It’s about seeing the world in a different way. It’s about seeing yourself differently...full of big ideas and new possibilities."

Making WHAT IF, WHAT IS.

Check out Re-vision TV

Recommended reading from Stacy

Enjoy!

Jeff

Saturday, September 27, 2008

United Nations Foundation

Thursday, Reid Detchon joined us by phone and Larry Levine in studio.

Clinton Climate Initiative participant Reid Detchon is Executive Director of Energy and Climate at the United Nations Foundation.

Larry Levine President of United Nations Foundation, Monterey Bay Chapter joined us.

Reid is the key note speaker at the Steinbeck forum this Wednesday.

100% renewable energy in 10 years? A great target!

Jeff

Friday, September 26, 2008

Wed, Sep 24,

Walker Wells, AICP LEED AP,Director of the Resource Efficiency and Sustainable Communities Program
Global Green USA is based in Santa Monica, CA.

Urban planner, Walker will be speaking at West Coast Green this weekend

New Orleans project has received AMEX prize

His book is Blueprint for greening affordable housing

and his book, LEED for neighborhoods

We need a value shift to sustain World wide water security, nonproliferation of WMD's, promote Global literacy, Green affordable housing, recycling and promote social justice

His blog

Jeff

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

A double header

First, today is earth overshoot day.....(Tuesday)
Now, on with the show
Douglas Atkins, Ed.M., joined us in the studio.
He is the Executive Director of Chartwell School in Seaside, Cal.
LEED platinum rated, Green Building Rating System™ (57 points out of a 69 points max) Very few school in Ca. attain such a lofty goal
Chartwell School's 25 years in the making, in their new location for 2 years
google map (check out terrain map)
Sunlight, indoor air quality control and comforts are a big part keeping students attention, a comfortable place to be, A wise investment in education
Gardens, culinary arts, science, composting with sustainability are taught, absentee rates seem to be down.
"The solar system is expected to produce more than 53 million Watt-hours of electricity per year and will offset the production of 54,000 pounds of CO2 annually, the same as planting 8 acres of trees."

Call for tours
Outreach program is available for your community and your kids
The Collaborative for High Performance Schools
________________________________________________
On our second half hour, David Cross founder of SG blocks joined us by phone.
There are 45 million containers in use or storage in the US alone.
Each container makes 24-30 trips before they are recycled (bottles and cans wish)
Each container can be loaded or unloaded from a ship every 90 seconds.
Shipping containers get left behind due to our shipping heavy goods and receiving light goods.
As you can imagine, relying on containers as building materials, the closer to shippers the better, less shipping!!
Homes are built 20-40% faster than traditional homes, that means big savings.
There are some other perks. (natural disaster resistant)
At this point in time, 4 stories is the extent of height testing, soon to be 9 stories.
Check out the Harbinger house at West Coast Green(SJ) ,
Made of 5 shipping containers, It will be touring the states, yes, it gets built and rebuilt many times.
In case you need to move, finished home can be packed up and moved very quickly, instead of just tearing it down.
Some specifics, I am impressed!!!!
320 square feet every 15 Min.
Value-Cycling™.
Hurricane resistant
This looks, to me, like Lego's on steroids

Jeff

Tuesday, September 23, 2008



On Monday's show,

Architect Carol Venolia, Professor of eco-development at Dominican Univ. of Ca. in San Rafael.
www.dominican.edu
She also pens a Column for Natural Homes Magazine
www.naturalhomemagazine.com
Carol Venolia and Kelly Lerner have written "Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House".

Quite an extensive book that contains numerous ways to remodel the house you have, into a beautiful and comfortable home, recycling all along the way.

"Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House" will show you how to start with the home you have and transform it into an eco-paradise—on any budget.

More information and to View excerpts from the book.
www.naturalremodeling.com (home site)

Support sustainability in your community!!! Buy "Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House": from your local independent book store or buy on line here;
www.buildersbooksource.com

Heat and light from the sun,
cooling from shade and breezes,
what a concept!!

Bring Your Home into Harmony with Nature!!!

Jeff

Monday, September 22, 2008

Pat Murphy talks about peak oil

"My friends/Guys...Gals"

On Friday's show Deborah had the pleasure of interviewing Eugene R. "Pat" Murphy via telephone, it was eye opener to say the least!

Pat travels extensively , engaging people to begin the process of using our resources more effectively and reducing our dependency on fossil fuels.

Deborah and Pat discussed Cuba's dilemma when the Russians cut off almost
all of Cuba's fuel supply.

A great explanation of Cuba's crisis, and how it is a scary parallel to our current situation. "The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil."is available for $20.00 plus shipping here;
http://www.powerofcommunity.org/cm/index.php

The link below is not to Pat's film, but it may spark more interest in our situation.

(Less than 10 min.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCiHpPkp3pU&feature=related

Pat has written a book, "Plan C" on this subject for you readers.
I'm sure a local book store will have it/can get it for you if not,
It can be found here for $19.95 at;
http://www.newsociety.com/bookid/3992
Looks like a great bit of info on the blog too.

As you can see, I'm new at this, any comments are appreciated.

Jeff

Wednesday, September 10, 2008

Make Your House Cozy!

Sarah Susanka, author of The Not So Big House is with us today.

During architecture practice she noticed the money and quality issues of building new houses were overwhelming.
Susanka found that her definition of home comes from the character of the space rather than the size.

When designing a home do you look for sustainable materials?

Absolutely. Luckily conferences like West Coast Green are inspiring and providing sources for fabulous educational opportunities.
Sarah will be speaking at West Coast Green this September 25-27Th.

It's incredible how we assume walls are there for good. Susanka says we should not be daunted by a wall.

Tear it down! Make your house cozy! Take a look at the rooms where you spend the least time in, and change what is keeping you from being comfortable in that room.

Be sure to check out Sarah Susanka at West Coast Green later this month.

Thanks for listening today!

Olana

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Stand up and Make Your Voice Heard!

1 Sky are a solutions based group working towards creating 5 million green jobs, and reducing global warming gasses by 80% by 2050.

What can we do to reach those goals?

Energy efficiency and conservation through future-fitting our buildings, vehicles, and moving away from a carbon base fuel economy.

It's shocking in our carbon crisis we are still getting an outcry to continue drilling for more oil, when clearly that is not the solution.

Clean energy, less expensively produced, is what we need to seek out.

Is all of this possible?

Yes, we can live enjoyable, productive and positive lives without having such a consumer based society.

What's the tipping point?

The science community points towards 650 million refugees, massive spreading of disease, and devastating climate change impacts.

However, the other tipping point is NOW! Between us all here, ready to participate in change right now. This isn't the problem of someone else. It is ours!

What does Gillian think about our president candidates?

Both have plans sketched out to reach reductions in ecological impact:
Obama by 80% and McCain by 60%

At this stage there is no such thing as clean coal. 1 Sky does not support Nuclear power.

1 Sky has a list where you can sign up and become part of the e-advocacy campaign. They are hoping to expand their current list enormously.

Log on to Green Jobs Now to let our representatives know that the U.S. is ready for green and clean energy jobs.

1 Sky is sent to inspire people to participate in out political system. We are privileged to be able to vote, and voice our opinions. Let's do it!

Thanks Gillian, and thank you all for listening!

Olana

Monday, September 8, 2008

Let's Change by Design, not by Default

Annie Leonard, host of The Story of Stuff is with us today. The Story of Stuff is a 20 minute video that takes a look at our consumption patterns in the U.S. After spending 10 yrs. with Green Peace studying waste Annie gained a lot of knowledge. The process starts with extraction, then production, then distribution, then consumption, then disposal. Our global overshoot day has been inching forward and forward. It's taking longer and longer to replenish our capital.

Where did this all begin?

Advertising is one big reason.

We need to focus on valuing quality over quantity. We can refuse to participate in such a wasteful production & consumption system.

What about the encouragement to go spend money, boost the economy, etc?

Community building, sharing, and civic engagement should replace all this time spent shopping. Annie recommends changing by design, not by default.

As a society, we should be measuring our success by genuine progress, not corporate profit. If we did so things would all be a bit different.

It's rare that we think about the roots of where a product comes from. Think back, all the way to the mining of the metal. The actual cost of these products is far, far more then what we are spending at the cash register. In the U.S. the amount of happiness per unit of natural resources consumed is very inefficient.

What is incineration all about?

Three strong reasons why Annie opposes these:

1. Horrible toxic pollution.
2. Destroys valuable resources.
3. They are waste addicts. They require a constant stream of waste to keep burning.

Unfortunately, there are a lot of incinerator proposals in the U.S. Luckily, Gaia is taking serious measures to fight them. take a look at BAN as well.

What can we do?

Annie has 10 little and big things we should do. the first three are below, and you can find the rest on The Story of Stuff, which has been viewed by 4 million people as of now.

1. Change your light bulbs and your paradigm.
2. Recycle our trash and our elected officials. Lets take back our government.
3. Park your car and walk, and if you have to, march!

Thanks so much to Annie, and thank you all for listening!

Olana

Thursday, September 4, 2008

Not Just a Pretty Face

Stacy Malkan, author of Not Just a Pretty Face, is here with us today. Stacy has been working in the field of environmental health, and then began launching a research and advocacy effort. At age 17, before getting on the school bus, Malkan was exposing herself to over 200 chemicals. 17 carcinogens and 30 plus hormone disrupting chemicals.
Found was that certain chemicals phthalates (hormone disrupting specifically testosterone)exist in higher levels in women. After testing many products, phthalates were found in 70% of them. Shampoo, creams and other body products. Products that have "fragrance" tend to have phthalates. Males are also at risk.

The FDA doesn't have the power to oversee the cosmetic industry, unfortunately. That type of regulation doesn't exist in cosmetics. It's as if the FDA wasn't (until recently) aware that the skin is such an absorbing organ.

Is there a link between breast cancer and cosmetics?
Carcinogens have been found in low levels in all of the products that Malkan tested. Baby Shampoos, body wash, and bubble bath.
High levels of estrogen also leaves breast cancer as a risk, so hormone disrupting chemicals are of concern.

These issues are all connected. Chemicals end up in our streams, our oceans, our agriculture, our dinner plates, our bodies, and our ailments. What to do?

Pink Washing is a term which points a finger at beauty companies which hold pink ribbon events, promoting them selves as friends of the breast cancer victim, mean while using chemicals and carcinogens in their products which are causing breast cancer. What's important is asking the question, how can we stop women from getting this cancer in the first place?

The good news is that their are alternatives! PEG's, Parabens, and Sodium Laureth Sulfate are not necessary and companies are staring to find ways to make the product effective without these harmful chemicals.

There is a database called Skin Deep which helps us to find safer alternatives in body care. Look up the companies you have been using, and see how they rank on the rating system.
Whole Foods now has products with a sticker ensuring a Premium Body Care Standard.

What can we do?

Look at those labels! Share the Skin Deep website with your friends, family, and young girls. Look critically at what the beauty industry is telling us. If you drop a product, let the company know why. Be vocal about your actions!


A couple of Malkan's recommended websites:

Mom's Rising

Teen's for Safe Cosmetics

Stacy can be found at Not Just a Pretty Face.

email her at Stacy@safecosmetics.org.

Thank you Stacy!

Olana

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Green is the Only Way to Go!

Hunter Lovins has shared some interesting information with us today. Building green increases labor productivity up to 16% because people inside can see better, are more comfortable, and aren't subject to toxic chemicals. You find that these folks actually want to be there, increasing productivity. Money is also saved on energy, because the infrastructure is designed to utilize the elements.

Take a look at Lovin's recommended web sites:

Live Neutral

Presidios School of Management

agenda 21

Have a nice day!

Olana

Thursday, August 28, 2008

Save Our Shores

Save Our Shores chatted with us today about the upcoming Coastal Cleanup. Panther Beach is a sight that is in need of volunteers. Also Downtown Santa Cruz, and Garden of Eden are all sights which are in need of participation. Please visit Save Our Shores to participate in the next Coastal Clean Up.

Wednesday, August 27, 2008

San Jose's Green Vision

Mayor Chuck Reed has a Green Vision for San Jose:

Today we have Colin O'Mara with us to describe some of the visions and goals that San Jose has.

Green Vision Goals:
Within 15 years, the City of San José in tandem with its residents and businesses will:
1. Create 25,000 Clean Tech jobs as the World Center of Clean Tech Innovation
2. Reduce per capita energy use by 50 percent
3. Receive 100 percent of our electrical power from clean renewable sources
4. Build or retrofit 50 million square feet of green buildings
5. Divert 100 percent of the waste from our landfill and convert waste to energy
6. Recycle or beneficially reuse 100 percent of our wastewater (100 million gallons per day)
7. Adopt a General Plan with measurable standards for sustainable development
8. Ensure that 100 percent of public fleet vehicles run on alternative fuels
9. Plant 100,000 new trees and replace 100 percent of our streetlights with smart, zero-emission lighting
10. Create 100 miles of interconnected trails

Colin has shared an event with us on September 10, 2008. The Silicon Valley Leadership Group. You can take MST bus line 55 all the way to San Jose. For more information click here. You can contact Colin at (408) 535-8169.

Very cool! Go San Jose!

Have a great Wednesday,

Olana