Going Green Challenge Blog

Dec 5, New Traditions

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 00:00:41 GMT

According to the E.P.A, household waste increases 25 during the holiday season. Even avid recyclers find themselves overwhelmed with the leftover holiday heap.

If you aren't already recycling during the Christmas craze, start a new holiday tradition.

Before the big day arrives, designate a responsible family member to oversee the recycling duties. Involve the kids in gathering, sorting, and breaking down boxes. Grab the kids, pile it all in the car, and drive to the recycling center in your Christmas p.j.'s.

What if your family gathers in a no recycling zone? Offer to make a special trip to the recycle center or drop it off on your way home. If your host still objects, rescue the boxes from the burn pile with a white Christmas lie: a friend may need moving boxes or your nephew might be building a cardboard fort.

For greener and cheaper decorating, wrapping, and gift giving, see our Green Christmas ideas.

Nov 14, 35 Cheap Homemade Gift Ideas

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 19:25:03 GMT

Not sure what to get that special someone this holiday? Consider a one of a kind homemade gift.

For inspiration, see our full list of ideas!

Oct 28, Quick Easy Halloween Costumes

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 18:09:20 GMT

30 Ideas for Quick Easy Halloween Costumes! Have a Green Halloween with these last minute Halloween costumes made from things around the house.

Sep 21, Fall Table Decorations

Wed, 21 Sep 2011 14:27:07 GMT

Easy and cheap fall table decorations! Create fall table decorations from things in your own backyard. Or, make turkey pumpkin centerpieces that can double as Thanksgiving appetizers.

Aug 19, Solar Powered Flood Lights

Fri, 19 Aug 2011 20:24:33 GMT

Looking for extra home security? How about a way to light up your street address? Solar powered flood lights are an affordable and attractive addition to any outdoor space!

Aug 7, Back to School!

Sun, 07 Aug 2011 18:30:13 GMT

Check out these easy tips for heading back to school eco-style.

Jul 26, Solar Powered Christmas Lights

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 21:20:34 GMT

It's Christmas in July! Solar string lights, solar rope lights and more solar powered Christmas lights.

Jul 20, Solar Light Batteries

Wed, 20 Jul 2011 14:54:35 GMT

Solar Light Batteries: NiCd or NiMH batteries? Tips for choosing the best rechargeable batteries for solar rope lights, solar deck lights, and other outdoor lighting.

Jul 12, Affordable Solar Shop

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 22:01:46 GMT

Go solar without breaking the bank! Check out our top picks of solar deck lights, solar decorations, and more from Amazon.com.

Amazon.com Widgets

Jun 28, Green 4th of July

Tue, 28 Jun 2011 19:15:12 GMT

Wherever you will be this holiday, chances are you will be celebrating in some fashion. Check out these 5 tips for a greener 4th of July.

Jun 23, Solar Decorations

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 13:53:42 GMT

Solar decorations come in variety of designs, and serve multiple purposes. Check out a sun jar, solar address sign, solar bird feeders, and more fun stuff powered by the sun!

May 24, Solar Deck Lights

Tue, 24 May 2011 19:49:54 GMT

Solar deck lights can be a great addition to your landscape, even if you don't have a deck! Learn about recessed solar deck lights, portable solar step lights, solar rope lights, and more.

May 18, Solar Tiki Torches

Wed, 18 May 2011 20:14:50 GMT

Having a party of just hanging out on the patio? Solar tiki torches are a great addition to any outdoor space! Find out the advantages and disadvantages of solar tiki lights and if they are right for you.

May 10, Solar Rope Lights

Tue, 10 May 2011 14:57:38 GMT

Solar rope lights can be used to line driveways, gardens and more! Learn the difference between solar rope lights and traditional solar string lights. Find out which is right for your location.

Apr 25, Easter Egg Snake

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 15:27:02 GMT

Overwhelmed with plastic Easter eggs? We have the perfect craft for you! Make a bendable caterpillar, worm, or snake with these step-by-step instructions.

Apr 21, New Habits

Thu, 21 Apr 2011 20:08:15 GMT

For the last challenge, honor Earth Day by creating a green habit. After a year of weekly challenges, you know what works and what doesn't for your family.

This Week's Challenge: Make a permanent lifestyle change

Here are just a few ideas:

Trade in paper towels for dish towels
Use on-the-go reusable containers instead of sandwich bags
Stop buying bottled water
Start composting
Switch from paper napkins to cloth
Skip the chain and visit locally owned restaurants
Stop magazine subscriptions
Plant a garden each year
Buy only soy candles
Skip the bookstore and visit the library
Plant local flowers
Carry reusable shopping bags
Don't idle the car
Pay bills online

Thanks to everyone who took the Green Challenge. Stay tuned for the latest green info!

Apr 13, Biking Bliss

Wed, 13 Apr 2011 20:38:46 GMT

This Week's Challenge: Dust of your Bicycle

Now that Spring has sprung, it's a great time to hop on the bike. Bicycling will help you get back in shape and the environment will benefit. Try biking to work, on errands, or to visit someone in the neighborhood.

Apr 5, Earth Day Activities

Tue, 05 Apr 2011 20:02:13 GMT

Earth Day is celebrated each year on April 22nd. This year, Earth Day happens to fall a few days before Easter Sunday. To avoid conflicts, many organizations are hosting Earth Day events on April 16th & 17th.

This Week's Challenge: Plan to Celebrate Earth Day

Learn the facts about Earth Day, read special Earth Day poems and quotes, check out local events in your area, or host an Earth Day scavenger hunt. For more ways to celebrate, see our list of Earth Day activities.

Mar 29, Outdoor Solar Lighting

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 15:21:27 GMT

How does outdoor solar lighting work? Which type is best for my location? Shopping tips for solar yard lights, solar lamp post lights and more!

Mar 27, Low Impact Lawn Care

Sun, 27 Mar 2011 22:10:45 GMT

This Week's Challenge: Green your Lawn Routine

Mow Less
You probably don't need to spend every Saturday morning keeping up with the lawn. Longer grass actually crowds out many types of weeds. Mow only when necessary to maintain your lawn.

Switch Mowers
If you are in the market for a new mower, consider an old fashioned rotary mower. Hand powered mowers are ideal for small yards and guarantee a great workout. Electric mowers are also a great option. They are quieter, easier to push, and reduce the impact on the environment.

Treat Less
Try to reduce the amount of chemicals you use. Look for natural alternatives to pesticides and herbicides. Choose organic fertilizers.

Hire Local & Chemical Free
When hiring a professional lawn service, look for a locally owned company. Opt for those that use a natural approach to lawn care.

Free Nutrients
Grass clippings provide natural nutrients. Compost clippings or leave them on the lawn after you mow.

Reduce Landscaping
The more landscaping you have, the more you will need of everything; water, fertilizer, time, etc.

Mar 16, Green Up Your Kitchen

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:35:42 GMT

This Week's Challenge: Go Green In the Kitchen

There are ways to achieve a greener kitchen without spending a dime. Learn how to pamper your appliances and save some energy.

Stovetop
To save heat, match pots and pans with the right burner size. Using the right size pot can save you up to $30 a year.

Microwave vs. Oven
When compared to a conventional oven, microwaves can reduce energy use by 75 percent. If you are comfortable using a microwave, use it in place of the oven to reheat food.

Toaster vs. Toaster Oven
Which is more energy efficient? It all depends on how it's used. If you only use it to toast bread, a traditional toaster is the better option. If you also use it to bake and warm up small meals, a toaster oven might be the better choice. Toaster ovens are more efficient than traditional ovens.

Garbage Disposal
When given the choice, it's better to send food down the garbage disposal than to toss it in a trash bag. Food from the disposal usually makes it to the sewer line, is treated by the sanitary department, and turned into fertilizer.

Refrigerator
A well stocked refrigerator runs more efficiently than an empty one. But, be sure not to over-stock. An overcrowded fridge has to work overtime to keep the excess food cool. Refrigerators shouldn't be next to heat producing appliances, which is practically every other gadget in the modern kitchen. For more tips, see our full list.

Dishwasher
To save money, water and energy, wait until the dishwasher is full before running the machine. Skip the rinse cycle and turn off the automatic dryer to save additional resources. To remove soap residue and hard water build up, see energy efficient dishwashers.

Unplug
Unplug coffee pots, blenders, toasters and other small kitchen appliances when not in use.

Mar 10, Solar Lamp Post Lights

Thu, 10 Mar 2011 16:11:46 GMT

Considering outdoor solar lighting? Solar lamp post lights are a great way to light up driveways, patios, decks, gardens and more! Check out affordable and maintenance free solar lighting.

Mar 8, Opt Out

Tue, 08 Mar 2011 20:25:58 GMT

It's that time of year. Bright shades of yellow will soon be appearing near the front porch, the back stoop, and occasionally on the lawn.

We aren't talking about the early flowers of Spring, but the dreaded phone books that show up in droves. Just how many phone books does one household need?

This Week's Challenge: Opt Out

You can still receive a phone book, without receiving multiple copies or editions you don't use. Or, you can opt out altogether. Check Yellow Pages Opt Out for more info.

Feb 25, Just Say No

Fri, 25 Feb 2011 16:15:33 GMT

Have you flipped through your junk mail lately, wishing a Do Not Mail Registry existed? That's exactly what Forest Ethics is working on. According to their findings, the average household receives 848 pieces of junk mail per year.

This Week's Challenge: Say No to Junk Mail

Help stop annoying mailers that destroy 100 million trees each year. Sign the Do Not Mail Registry today.

Feb 16, Save Not

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 18:11:28 GMT

Once upon a decade ago, the screen saver mode actually did some saving. When home computers became the norm, using the screen saver extended the life of the monitor. Not true in our techie times.

This Week's Challenge: Kill the Screen

Instead of using a screen saver, set your monitor to fall into a low-power mode. This will save energy and up to $100 a year on your electric bill.

Feb 9, Be Mine

Wed, 09 Feb 2011 18:08:41 GMT

Approximately 1 billion Valentine's Day cards will be sent around the world on Monday. Flowers, balloons, and an estimated 35 million heart shaped boxes will also be sent on the second largest card holiday of the year.

This Week's Challenge: Be a Green Valentine

Here are a few ideas:

Consider sending an e-card. Your special someone may appreciate the break from work.

Choose cards made from recycled and tree-free paper.

Opt for organic and free trade chocolates.

Make reservations at a locally owned restaurant. Or, shop locally and make dinner at home.

Choose flowers that are chemical free and locally grown.

When choosing jewelry, consider pieces made of recycled materials or buy pre-owned from an antique shop. For diamonds and other gems, look for a jeweler who sells ecologically and socially responsible jewelry.

Feb 1, Cut the Meat

Tue, 01 Feb 2011 23:53:26 GMT

A 2006 United Nations report estimated that livestock is responsible for 18 percent of greenhouse gas emissions.

This Week's Challenge: Plan a Meatless Meal

Trade in one meal each week for a meatless version. There are many delicious dishes to try like eggplant parmesan or homemade tomato pie.

Jan 23, Natural Remedies

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 23:06:17 GMT

If you're suffering from the dreaded winter cold, consider trying a homepathic treatment.

This Week's Challenge: Fight that Cold Naturally

Take the Day
If you can, take the day off and rest up. The more time you spend resting, the better chance of a speedy recovery.

Warm Tea with Honey
Locally produced honey may give your immune system an added boost against allergens in your area.

Flush with a Neti Pot
Grossed out by the neti pot? It takes some getting used to, but beats those painful sinus infections.

Take a Hot Shower
Steam will open up and mosturize your nasal passage.

Gargle
To soothe and moisten a sore throat, add a teaspoon of salt to warm water and gargle 3-4 times daily.

Know When to Give it Up
We all prefer the natural route, but sometimes it's best to trade in the tea for a prescription. If you are feeling particularly rough, by all means, call the doctor.

Jan 15, Green Your Workout Routine

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 21:36:01 GMT

It's that time of year; gyms are flooded with eager new members and exercise gear is flying off store shelves.

This Week's Challenge: Green Your Workout Routine

Head Outdoors
When the weather permits, skip the gym. Take a bike ride around the neighborhood or go for a jog in a nearby park.

Reuse
Skip the disposable version and carry a reusable water bottle.

Buddy Up
Find a work-out pal and share rides to the gym.

Buy Organic
Look for workout clothing made of bamboo or organic cotton.

Test the Waters
Interested in starting a Pilates routine? Borrow dvd's, bands and other gear from a friend. Give it a test run; make sure it's your thing before buying equipment.

Jan 7, Green Resolutions

Fri, 07 Jan 2011 01:42:15 GMT

Many of us made New Year's resolutions for better health, more time with family and friends, or to kick a bad habit.

This Week's Challenge: Make a Resolution for the Planet

Make the switch to homemade cleaners, start a recycling program, switch to cloth napkins, or serve meatless meals a few times each week. For more ideas, see our list of green tips.

Dec 22, The Season for Sharing

Wed, 22 Dec 2010 19:40:59 GMT

A slew of cars line the street as you pull up to the annual holiday party. Once inside you notice there aren't that many people in attendance.

This Week's Challenge: Pile In

If the whole family is driving across town to visit Aunt Agnes, pile in one car. Consider this when last minute shopping, Christmas light cruising, and heading to church services. You just might get to know the extended family a little better, or learn who you will never ride with again!

Happy Holidays from the Green Challenge team!

Dec 16, Top Ten Christmas Gifts

Thu, 16 Dec 2010 16:23:44 GMT

As green as our 35 cheap homemade gift ideas are, some of us don't have the time or desire to make our own gifts.

This Week's Challenge: Buy a Green Gift

From solar powered watches to handbags made of recycled water bottles, there are many planet friendly gifts on store shelves. For ideas, see our Top Ten Christmas Gifts for everyone.

Dec 10, 35 Cheap Homemade Gift Ideas

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 20:53:40 GMT

Not sure what to get that special someone this holiday? Consider a one of a kind gift.

This Week's Challenge: Make at least one homemade gift this holiday season.

For inspiration, see our full list of ideas below!

Dec 1, New Traditions

Wed, 01 Dec 2010 20:33:39 GMT

According to the E.P.A, household waste increases 25 during the holiday season. Even avid recyclers find themselves overwhelmed with the leftover holiday heap.

If you aren't already recycling during the Christmas craze, start a new holiday tradition.

Before the big day arrives, designate a responsible family member to oversee the recycling duties. Involve the kids in gathering, sorting, and breaking down boxes. Pile it all in the car, grab the kids, and drive to the recycling center in your Christmas p.j.'s.

What if your family gathers in a no recycling zone? Offer to make a special trip to the recycle center or drop it off on your way home. If your host still objects, rescue the boxes from the burn pile with a white Christmas lie: a friend may need moving boxes or your nephew might be building a cardboard fort.

For greener and cheaper decorating, wrapping, and gift giving, see our Green Christmas ideas.

Nov 24, Small Business Saturday

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 22:25:20 GMT

If you haven't seen the Target Black Friday commercials, they will give you a good laugh. We may not like to admit it, but that deal seeking diva is hiding in most of us. After all, who doesn't like a great deal?

This Week's Challenge: Save part of the shopping list for Small Business Saturday.

Support your local businesses this weekend at the first ever Small Business Saturday. For more information, see smallbusinesssaturday.com.

Nov 22, Easy Pumpkin Recipes

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 20:43:25 GMT

Easy Pumpkin Recipes: Try a no bake & homemade pumpkin pie recipe or a pumpkin butter recipe. Check out these and more pumpkin goodies!

Nov 18, Reduce Your Heating Bill Even More

Thu, 18 Nov 2010 19:46:54 GMT

Starting out at just $30, a programmable thermostat can save up to 20 percent in heating costs each year. For some, it can pay for itself in just one month.

This Week's Challenge: Reprogram the Thermostat

Consider lowering the thermostat this winter season. For every degree the temperature is turned down, you can expect to save an estimated 3 percent off your heating costs.

Program the temperature at a lower setting when everyone is gone during the day. Consider lowering it at night too, and layer up with more blankets. Check your manual for a second setting, which may allow you to program it for warmer temperatures during the weekends.

Nov 11, Reduce Your Heating Bill

Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:33:34 GMT

This Week's Challenge: Switch Up the Ceiling Fans

During the summer, ceiling fans are set counterclockwise to produce cool breezes. Switching fans to a clockwise rotation can cut your heating costs by as much as 10 percent this winter season. The clockwise rotation will circulate warm air near the ceiling back into your living space.

Nov 10, Fall Table Decorations

Wed, 10 Nov 2010 20:54:01 GMT

Easy and cheap fall table Decorations! Create fall table decorations from things in your own backyard. Or, make turkey pumpkin centerpieces that can double as Thanksgiving appetizers.

Nov 8, How to Cook Pumpkin

Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:34:09 GMT

How to Cook Pumpkin: Skip the can & try these fresh pumpkin recipes! Or, learn how to cook pumpkin and freeze it for later.

Nov 3, Check for Drafts

Wed, 03 Nov 2010 20:32:30 GMT

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 5-30 percent of heat is lost through drafts.

This Week's Challenge: Check for Drafts

Take a look around your house for cracks and gaps; especially around doors, window frames, outlets and switches. Keep an eye out for spider webs, which are often in cooler areas.

The Simple Test: To check for drafts in your home, hold your hand against a door or window. If you feel cold air, there's a draft that needs sealed.

The Incense Test: Carefully move a lit incense around windows, in corners, and along the walls. If the smoke wavers, a winter chill will soon be sneaking in.

To fix drafts in your home, see the U.S. Department of Energy's guide to caulking and weatherstripping.

Oct 28, How to Roast Pumpkin Seeds

Thu, 28 Oct 2010 13:59:47 GMT

This Week's Challenge: Multi-Purpose Your Pumpkin

Roasting pumpkin seeds after the jack-o-lantern is carved may be your Halloween tradition. If you usually toss the messy guts of a pumpkin (or just want to try a new pumpkin seed recipe) check out our tips on how to roast pumpkin seeds.

Oct 20, Coffee Greens

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 20:12:27 GMT

According to the National Coffee Association, more than 50 percent of Americans drink coffee everyday. If you rise and shine with morning brew, there is a good chance you are tossing a coffee filter everyday.

This Week's Challenge: Replace the Coffee Filter

Green your coffee routine with a reusable filter. Hard mesh filters are easy to clean and fit most types of coffee makers. These durable filters sell for approximately $10 in stores and online.

Reusable filters made out of cloth (or hemp) is another option. These filters require a little more effort to clean, but cost under $5. They usually need replaced every few years.

If you stick with paper filters, choose the brown version. These are bleach-free and often made from recycled pulp.

Coffee tasting bitter? See how to clean a coffee maker with 1 natural ingredient!

Oct 15, Quick Easy Halloween Costumes

Fri, 15 Oct 2010 19:16:18 GMT

30 Ideas for Quick Easy Halloween Costumes! Have a Green Halloween with these last minute Halloween costumes made from things around the house.

Oct 14, Green Halloween

Thu, 14 Oct 2010 15:47:41 GMT

What was once a celebration of a new season is now a 6 billion dollar industry of consumerism.

This Week's Challenge: Get back to the basics of Halloween

Decorations
Indoor Halloween Decorations
Think about decorating for the entire fall season. Fall table decorations made with pumpkins can be used well into November. Instead of carving pumpkins, draw a face on them with black magic marker. When Halloween is over, simply turn your pumpkins around.

Halloween Yard Decoration Ideas
Decorate with bales of hay, cornstalks, gourds and mums. Grab the kids and make a scarecrow stuffed with straw or newspaper. Find a pair of old blue jeans, flannel shirt, boots, a straw hat and gloves. Stuff with straw and tie off with twine. Use a pair of old suspenders and belt to help support your scarecrow.

Treats
Consider giving out small trinkets like stickers, temporary tattoos, seashells, or wooden toys. Our neighbor gives out decks of cards, jack sets and pick-up sticks in place of candy. If you know your neighbors well, consider making homemade goodies for the kids. Popcorn balls, caramel dipped apples or pumpkin bars are always a hit. If you give out prepackaged treats, try to buy fair trade and organic candy, dried fruits and raisins.

Fun
Attend local carnivals that focus on fun activities instead of "how much candy can I collect?" Look for Halloween parades, hay rides and fundraisers in your area.

Costumes
This year, borrow a costume, trade with a friend, or make your own. Quick easy Halloween costumes can be made out of things you already have. If you must buy new, purchase costumes that are 100 cotton (organic, if you can find it). Skip the mask and use non-toxic face paint and hair color. Check what's in the make-up bag first; you may find just what you need.

Oct 7, Falling Dcor

Thu, 07 Oct 2010 14:18:02 GMT

I woke last night to a hailstorm. At least I thought it was a hailstorm. It was just the wind, rustling our mighty oak until acorns poured down on the rooftop.

Even the squirrels seem tired from collecting the abundant crop. As they scurry through the backyard, I try to will them to work faster and invite their friends over. Until they step it up, you will find me picking up acorns by the bucketful. Why? Our toddler was given his Mama's grace. Bad things happen when you put him on unsteady ground.

This Week's Challenge: Decorate Naturally This Season

Skip the store bought seasonal decor. Grab the family and shop outdoors in your backyard or at a local park. Bring the beauty of fall indoors with acorns, pine cones, twigs and leaves. Stop at the orchard for apples, gourds, and pumpkins. Arrange your goodies in baskets, bowls or glass jars.

Coming soon: Easy Fall Table Decorations, Pumpkin Centerpieces, and more!

Sep 29, Freshen Up

Wed, 29 Sep 2010 18:50:44 GMT

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the air within most homes is more polluted than outdoor air. If you have been running the a.c. all summer, now is a good time to turn it off.

This Week's Challenge: Open the Windows

Before we migrate indoors for the winter, open the home and office windows. Let your household plants and indoor animals breathe the fresh air. To keep indoor air pollution at a minimum, invest in a few spider plants and use homemade natural cleaners.

Sep 23, Schools Going Green

Thu, 23 Sep 2010 01:04:24 GMT

Now that the school is back in full swing, we are all getting comfortable in our new routines. If you haven't already attended an open house or a P.T.A. meeting at your child's school, you probably will be soon.

This Week's Challenge: Check out the school. Does it make the list of schools going green?

See what your children are being taught about preserving the environment. Are there recycle bins in the cafeteria and classrooms? When washing hands and using the water fountain, are the children taught about water conservation? Does the school have scheduled field trips outdoors in nature?

Ask your kids what they think can be done to green up their school.

For 20 ways to help your school go green, see Schools Going Green.

Sep 17, How the Garden Grows

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 00:04:54 GMT

After giving them to friends and neighbors, we are still up to our eyeballs in tomatoes.

As summer comes to a close and we get busy with our new fall schedule, it's tempting to let the garden go.

This Week's Challenge: Use the Garden Produce

If, after canning, making tomato sauce and salsa, your baskets are still running over with tomatoes, try out something new: a southern tomato pie recipe, copycat of Olive Garden minestrone soup, or a homemade tomato soup recipe that you can freeze and enjoy on a chilly fall night.

Sep 8, Shut the Door

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 19:14:55 GMT

We love making better choices for the environment and saving money. Making sure your refrigerator is running at an optimal level is an easy way to do this.

This Week's Challenge: Make your Fridge more Energy Efficient

Check the Temperature
Many refrigerator thermostats are set colder than necessary. To check yours, place a thermometer in a jar of water overnight. Try not to open the refrigerator. In the morning, the temperature should read between 35 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Adjust the thermostat if necessary and recheck the next night.

Combine
If you have two refrigerators, there's a good chance one of them is rarely used. If so, consider combining them. One larger refrigerator is more efficient than two smaller versions.

Cool Down
Adding warm food to the refrigerator forces it to work harder to keep things cool. Let food reach room temperature before adding to the fridge.

Dust
A few times a year, pull the refrigerator out from the wall. Make sure nothing has fallen behind it to block the air flow. Dust off the coils on the back of the fridge.

For more tips, see our list on energy efficient refrigerators.