Sunday, February 21, 2010

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch

The area of the Pacific Ocean dubbed The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is 1,700 miles of floating plastic trash --think bigger than Texas. In fact, some say it stretches from the coast of California to China (an area estimated to be larger than the Continental U.S.)  For arguments sake, let's just say it's beyond BIG - it's almost unfathomable.  The vast majority of trash is Styrofoam and plastics - things that aren't biodegradable.


Awareness is the first step -- but certainly not enough to change or remedy the situation.  That's up to us.  It's up to us to dramatically reduce not only our plastic consumption, but also the amount of plastic waste that goes straight to landfills, and ultimately ends up in the Garbage Patch.

Feel like getting involved?  Check out these resources and stories of other eco-activists that are hoping to make a difference:

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is Worse Than We Thought - Inhabitat.com

Stop Trashing The Ocean: The Great Garbage Patch Facebook Page

Plastiki - Boat Made From Recycled Plastic Bottles Set Sail to Raise Awareness

Saturday, February 13, 2010

How Green Is Your Garden? Tips for Planting Eco-Friendly Yards and Gardens

Check out these tips for creating a truly green outdoor space at home, whether you have a small backyard, a container herb garden on a deck, or a large garden. Even small changes (like switching to natural pesticides) to the way you normally care for your yard or garden can have a big impact.


How To Make Your Yard Eco-Friendly on Howcast


Organic gardening is enjoying a huge increase in popularity these days as many are looking to grow their own fruit and vegetables at home. What could be better than planting your own garden that is both eco-friendly and budget-friendly? Here are a few tips to incorporate both frugal and green gardening ideas.

Natural pest control is better for your home and family, as well as soil and air quality. Here are some eco-friendly and budget friendly ways to keep your home and garden virtually pest free.

Happy Gardening!