Tuesday, April 01, 2008

Going greener!

I'm constantly debating how we can make our lives greener. Lately, I've been eyeing the Toyota Prius but, not only can I not afford a hybrid vehicle, but I still have 2 1/2 years left of payments on my Matrix.

As I'm reading the wonderful book, Animal, Vegetable, Miracle, I'm realizing the importance of locally-grown, organic food. However, right now, there is really no local produce to be had! And the cost of organic produce tends to be astronomical! So oftentimes, I'm buying the conventional-flown-in-from-Ecuador produce from the market. But I'll make a conscious effort to do better, come summer, when local produce is available.

Today's April 1st. Yes, it's April Fool's Day, but we also observe Earth Day this month. I have a list of things I'd like to do to turn Kermit-like this month, such as joining Green Dimes and learning about composting.

Today, my AAA membership is up and instead of renewing, I've decided to join the Better World Club. Their services are comparable to AAA but they are an environmentally conscious company. They donate 1 % of their total revenue to environmental cleanup and advocacy.

5 comments:

Jack said...

I have done quite a bit of Hybrid Research. WAIT before you leap! What most everyone who gets on does not realize is:
A.) They are on average $5,000.00 MORE than the same model in gas.
B.) Over the term of a lease or purchase loan – there is NO way to make up the difference in savings on fuel.
C.) what the car companies are also NOT saying is that when the battery in a hybrid goes it is THOUSANDS to replace. They still do not have an exact life expectancy on them either – contrary to “popular belief”. This much I know from a friend who is an Exec at one of the major automakers. They are great in theory – but still need to be proven. Remember, many years ago the “electric car” was trying to be introduced, and was effectively squashed by you know who.
Good luck though
Jack

kendraott said...

Hey, GreenDimes here- thanks for including us in your post. We appreciate your taking the time to tell others about our services. Make sure you check back next week to see some awesome new features on our site! Take good care and thanks again for the post.
Best,
Kendra
GreenDimes

Jesser said...

AVM is such a great book. I really enjoyed it ... and it's made me a bit more conscious on where my food comes. I can't do a total 180 over night, but y'know ... I'm trying.

And guess what I'm picking up at the library tomorrow ... ? The Veganomicon! Really looking forward to cooking from that.

Michelle said...

You might want to look into joining a CSA for locally grown food! Search your area at www.localharvest.org.

Veggie said...

I'd like to get a Prius too, but they are so expensive. I do drive a small car though, with excellent gas mileage.