Is Your Facial Tissue Green? Ewww...Is it Environmentally Friendly?

Everyone has a line that they won't cross when it comes to looking for environmentally preferable products. If yours doesn't come before the bathroom, then you should take a look at the Greenpeace Recycled Tissue and Toilet Paper Guide. They looked at more than 100 brands and divided them into three categories (recommended, could do better, and avoid). Product placement in these categories were based on whether they were made from 100% overall recycled content, at least 50% post-consumer recycled content, and whether they were bleached without chlorine. You can download and print (on recycled paper, of course) a handy pocket card, or download the iPhone app.

So You Think You're Smart?

But are you water smart? Test out your water IQ with Planet Green's Water Conservation Quiz! Which household item uses the most water? How much do most homes lose through leaks? No cheating! Don't go looking up the answers before you take the quiz! Still feeling brainy? Check out the other Planet Green quizzes online - from cycling to happy hour to topics that cannot even be mentioned on a state employee blog. See, now you really want to go check it out, don't you?

A Fair Trade

Most of us are familiar with the term "fair trade," but do you really know what it means? If you are interested in learning more about it, a great resource is Green America's Guide to Fair Trade. Do you think the fair trade label only applies to coffee? Not true...find out about the people behind fair trade chocolate, tea, fruit, sugar, fashion, jewelry, home decor and even sports equipment. Learn about what the term means and why it matters. Explore some of the places where fair trade is in action. Finally, learn about how you can get involved. It's all in Green America's Guide to Fair Trade!

With Budget Cuts I'm A-R-Y Stationary

I have a confession to make...I love paper. The eco-conscious and the paper-philes don't generally hang out in the same circles, but this year's National Stationery Show indicates that things may be changing. I did not actually attend the stationery show. Insane, I know, that with huge budget cuts and travel restrictions I was not able to convince the powers that be to allow me to travel to a trade show that has nothing to do with my job. I am fortunate that the good folks at Treehugger reported back on some of the amazing eco-friendly paper products that were showcased at the show.

Now, the stationers that made this best of the best list are doing some amazing work. We're not just talking about 10% post-consumer fiber. We're talking reclaimed cotton, carbon neutral, paper mills running on landfill gas, carbon-footprint labeled eco-friendly stationery! And it's gorgeous! The whimsical designs are matched by whimsical company names like Two Trick Pony and Fugu Fugu Press. Check out the dazzling stationery slideshow at treehugger! If you think you'll forget, just jot a note on your hydroelectric-paper-mill-made-soy-based-ink-printed notepad. Oh, you don't have one? Check out these companies and you can remedy that situation.

How Much Is That Rebate In the Window?

Who doesn't like a rebate? Or better yet, a tax credit? Want to find out what eco-friendly rebates are available in your area? Check out the Energy Star Rebate Finder! This easy-to-use resources allows you to type in your zip code and find what rebates are available for appliances, fans, heating and cooling, lighting, office equipment, residential water heaters, and your home envelope (yes, your home has an envelope). Are you considering energy-efficient windows for your home? You could be eligible for a tax credit! Take a look at Energy Star's Rebates and Tax Credit page for more information. So, get a check in an envelope when you check you home envelope...how great is that?!

Your Insulation Is So Fashionable

So maybe the skinny-leg jeans weren't such a good idea after all. Whatever the reason for being done with your denim, you can now ensure your old jeans will get new life! Cotton Incorporated is holding their From Blue to Green denim drive. Get your denim in by June 30th and it will be converted into insulation...not only will it be recycled, but it's being recycled into something that helps saves energy in homes! That rocks! But your old jean jacket does not rock, so go ahead and send it in to be recycled!

This Forecast is for Green

Terri Bennett is a meteorologist, earth scientist, mom and all-round eco-guru! Folks from the Charlotte, NC area may recognize her from her weather reporting days, but Terri's Do Your Part initiative should earn her recognition across the state and beyond! Check out the Do Your Part Web site to find out what you can do at home, at work, at play, with your kids and on the road to reduce your ecological footprint. Learn water consrvation tips for the bathroom, greener grilling techniques for the backyard an ways to make the office break room more eco-friendly. I'd say the forecast looks bright from here.