Just because your college living space is unsuitable for a federal inmate, (much less two), doesn’t mean you can’t make it green. As summer comes to an end don’t join your college-bound peers in the annual Bed Bath and Beyond scavenger hunt. Do you really need 25 yaffa blocks, or those terry-cloth throw pillows? Avoid useless junk. It will only block the rearview of mom’s station wagon and overcrowd your cell . . . ahem, dorm room.

For small living spaces—and the environment—less is always more. Of course there are a few essentials you’ll need to survive. Sheets, towels, and a desk lamp are necessary, but a mini fridge is indispensable.

Stay tuned! Over the next week I’ll walk you through a comprehensive guide to getting ready for college . . . eco-geek style.

1. Bedding
Whether or not you want to admit (frat boys I’m talking to you) you need sheets. As lazy as you may be, sleeping on a bare mattress is uncomfortable and down right unsanitary. Please buy sheets, but why buy regular sheets when you can buy “interesting sheets” made from eco-conscious fibers such as bamboo and organic cotton.

2. Computer
You can probably get by without one, but don’t count on it. A growing and already quite large number of colleges require students have a personal computer. If you have to get one anyway, why buy anything but Energy Star?

As said in my recent series Back to School Energy Efficient Computers Parts I, II, and III, I’m a big Mac fan. Apple is trumping the computer industry in style, design, and consumer satisfaction—and now environmental initiatives. Designing to minimize environmental impact at all life cycle stages—from materials used, packaging, design and manufacturing to how the product will recycle once you trade it in for a newer model, they certainly get my green thumbs-up.

All Apple computers and displays earn the original (2000) ENERGY STAR® stamp, but just recently Apple Mac and the Apple MacBook Pro have garnered the impressive Energy Star 4.0 certification—the highest possible Energy Star certification. If you’re willing to spend the money on a new computer I highly recommend these two options for your eco-dorm room.

3. TV
aquos.jpgOf course, I’m not going to even consider buying any electronics unless they’re wearing the bright blue ENERGY STAR label. No problem! There are over 100 awesome plasma and LCD ENERGY STAR options and the prices are exactly the same if not better than regular plasmas and LCDs. Best of all, I save money in the long run. By conserving energy, ENERGY STAR appliances can lower my utility bill by 30%.

Depending on what type of set you buy, a television can consume as little as 45 watts or as much as 500 watts, and cost anywhere from $13 to $145 per year to run.
LCD TVs, and the biggest energy consumers are the 50+ inch plasma sets. The most efficient LCD televisions are generally those in the Sharp Aquos line. Last year, CNET tested the energy efficiency of 20 television sets, and the Sharp Aquos 20 inch set was found to be the least power hungry — it costs just $13 a year to run.
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4. Lighting
Whether you like it or not, College will require some studying. You’re going to have to hit the books and probably pull a few all-nighters too. Large quantities of red bull, lack of sleep, and poor vending machine nutrition will make you feel pretty down in the dumps. To add insult to injury, you’ll be working under dizzying fluorescent lights—most college dorm rooms are outfitted with the same tube lights as a 24-hour gas station. Ditch a depressing glow, brighten your room, and avoid straining your eyes with a good desk lamp.

There are many energy star desk lamps to choose from. For college, I like the Lite Source Corsica II Fluorescent Energy Star Desk Lamp Silver. It’s perfectly adjustable to suit any project you tackle and it’s slim enough to fit the proportions of your Lilliputian desk.

Just because your college living space is unsuitable for a federal inmate, (much less two), doesn’t mean you can’t make it green. As summer comes to an end don’t join your college-bound peers in the annual Bed Bath and Beyond scavenger hunt. Do you really need 25 yaffa blocks, or those terry-cloth throw pillows? Avoid useless junk. It will only block the rearview of mom’s station wagon and overcrowd your cell . . . ahem, dorm room.

For small living spaces—and the environment—less is always more. Of course there are a few essentials you’ll need to survive. Sheets, towels, and a desk lamp are necessary, but a mini fridge is indispensable.

Stay tuned! Over the next week I’ll walk you through a comprehensive guide to getting ready for college . . . eco-geek style.

1. Bedding
Whether or not you want to admit (frat boys I’m talking to you) you need sheets. As lazy as you may be, sleeping on a bare mattress is uncomfortable and down right unsanitary. Please buy sheets, but why buy regular sheets when you can buy “interesting sheets” made from eco-conscious fibers such as bamboo and organic cotton.

2. Computer
You can probably get by without one, but don’t count on it. A growing and already quite large number of colleges require students have a personal computer. If you have to get one anyway, why buy anything but Energy Star?

As said in my recent series Back to School Energy Efficient Computers Parts I, II, and III, I’m a big Mac fan. Apple is trumping the computer industry in style, design, and consumer satisfaction—and now environmental initiatives. Designing to minimize environmental impact at all life cycle stages—from materials used, packaging, design and manufacturing to how the product will recycle once you trade it in for a newer model, they certainly get my green thumbs-up.

All Apple computers and displays earn the original (2000) ENERGY STAR® stamp, but just recently Apple Mac and the Apple MacBook Pro have garnered the impressive Energy Star 4.0 certification—the highest possible Energy Star certification. If you’re willing to spend the money on a new computer I highly recommend these two options for your eco-dorm room.

3. TV
Of course, I’m not going to even consider buying any electronics unless they’re wearing the bright blue ENERGY STAR label. No problem! There are over 100 awesome plasma and LCD ENERGY STAR options and the prices are exactly the same if not better than regular plasmas and LCDs. Best of all, I save money in the long run. By conserving energy, ENERGY STAR appliances can lower my utility bill by 30%.

Depending on what type of set you buy, a television can consume as little as 45 watts or as much as 500 watts, and cost anywhere from $13 to $145 per year to run.
LCD TVs, and the biggest energy consumers are the 50+ inch plasma sets. The most efficient LCD televisions are generally those in the Sharp Aquos line. Last year, CNET tested the energy efficiency of 20 television sets, and the Sharp Aquos 20 inch set was found to be the least power hungry — it costs just $13 a year to run.

Just because your college living space is unsuitable for a federal inmate, (much less two), doesn’t mean you can’t make it green. As summer comes to an end don’t join your college-bound peers in the annual Bed Bath and Beyond scavenger hunt. Do you really need 25 yaffa blocks, or those terry-cloth throw pillows? Avoid useless junk. It will only block the rearview of mom’s station wagon and overcrowd your cell . . . ahem, dorm room.

For small living spaces—and the environment—less is always more. Of course there are a few essentials you’ll need to survive. Sheets, towels, and a desk lamp are necessary, but a mini fridge is indispensable.

Stay tuned! Over the next week I’ll walk you through a comprehensive guide to getting ready for college . . . eco-geek style.

1. Bedding
Whether or not you want to admit (frat boys I’m talking to you) you need sheets. As lazy as you may be, sleeping on a bare mattress is uncomfortable and down right unsanitary. Please buy sheets, but why buy regular sheets when you can buy “interesting sheets” made from eco-conscious fibers such as bamboo and organic cotton.

2. Computer

You can probably get by without one, but don’t count on it. A growing and already quite large number of colleges require students have a personal computer. If you have to get one anyway, why buy anything but Energy Star?

As said in my recent series Back to School Energy Efficient Computers Parts I, II, and III, I’m a big Mac fan. Apple is trumping the computer industry in style, design, and consumer satisfaction—and now environmental initiatives. Designing to minimize environmental impact at all life cycle stages—from materials used, packaging, design and manufacturing to how the product will recycle once you trade it in for a newer model, they certainly get my green thumbs-up.

All Apple computers and displays earn the original (2000) ENERGY STAR® stamp, but just recently Apple Mac and the Apple MacBook Pro have garnered the impressive Energy Star 4.0 certification—the highest possible Energy Star certification. If you’re willing to spend the money on a new computer I highly recommend these two options for your eco-dorm room.

Just because your college living space is unsuitable for a federal inmate, (much less two), doesn’t mean you can’t make it green. As summer comes to an end don’t join your college-bound peers in the annual Bed Bath and Beyond scavenger hunt. Do you really need 25 yaffa blocks, or those terry-cloth throw pillows? Avoid useless junk. It will only block the rearview of mom’s station wagon and overcrowd your cell . . . ahem, dorm room.

For small living spaces—and the environment—less is always more. Of course there are a few essentials you’ll need to survive. Sheets, towels, and a desk lamp are necessary, but a mini fridge is indispensable.

Stay tuned! Over the next week I’ll walk you through a comprehensive guide to getting ready for college . . . eco-geek style.

1. Bedding
Whether or not you want to admit (frat boys I’m talking to you) you need sheets. As lazy as you may be, sleeping on a bare mattress is uncomfortable and down right unsanitary. Please buy sheets, but why buy regular sheets when you can buy “interesting sheets”. . . like these (pictured below) made from eco-conscious fibers such as bamboo and organic cotton.

The Post-It note takes clear advantage of one of the most common New Year’s resolutions . . . “I will be more organized.” Hinging on aspirational orderliness, the Post-It has made itself a fixture of homes and offices around the world. A recent article in the New York Times Financial Section reported that this past fiscal quarter Post-Its brought in $917 Million in profits . . . that’s an astronomical amount o Post-It notes used . . . everyday .

Making a fortune off little pieces of sticky paper just seems unfair. Sure they come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, but are they really worth the hype?

Today, I’d have to say yes as I just learned that 3M (the manufacturers and parent company of Post-It notes) is now offering eco-conscious Post-It options. You can save trees entirely and a large amount of energy with digital Post-Its on your computer. These digi Post-Its get very elaborate with colorful virtual memo boards, personalized photo notes, and even notes with built in alarms . . . so you’ll never forget your most important “to-dos.”

If simulated notes are not your style then consider the . These recycled notes are an acceptable eco-alternative because they are exactly the same sticky little pads—just made with at least 30% post consumer recycled paper. To boot, recycled Post-It notes are themselves recyclable.

Convince 3M to make ALL of their Post-Its out of recycled paper by buying eco-Post-It Notes rather than the normal ones. You’ll vote with your dollars and they’ll keep moving the Post-It into the future.

As said in my last post, desktop computers rank highest for energy inefficiency. The majority of desktops waste twice the amount of energy as their laptop siblings.

Desktops are also a poor back-to-school choice—especially if your child is college bound. Desktops take up a ton of space on your favorite student’s miniature dorm desk. Worse, a desktop will oblige your child to study/facebook in—and only in—his room. Desktops don’t allow easy transit to the library, student center, or study hall. Instead, students with desktops are isolated to their dormrooms. With inconsiderate roommates, noisy dorm parties, and video games, studying in one’s room can be a major distraction. Laptops allow your student to study where they study best . . . whether it’s the library, student lounge, or local coffee shop.

If a laptop is out of your price range then at least go for a desktop that is Energy Star certified. Energy Star 4.0 is the highest category of energy efficiency. As of now there are only a few desktops that meet Energy Star 4.0 certification, but the number is growing as manufacturers realize the importance and desire for Energy Star certified computers. Of course I am partial to Macs and recommend the Energy Star 4.0 certified Apple Mac mini Intel Core Duo Desktop.

Another option is Hewlett-Packard’s rp5700 Desktop. In addition to being Energy Star 4.0 certified, the HP Compaq rp5700 is a great eco-option because it is made of post-consumer recycled plastics and all packaging exceeds requirements for hazardous material reduction. Most of all, the computer’s S3 power management, power efficient Intel processors and 80 Plus power supplies work together to reduce power consumption and help save energy costs.

Like most desktops the HP Compaq rp5700 is just a core processor that does not come with configurations such as a monitor screen or speakers. In order for the HP Compaq rp5700 to maintain it’s Energy Star 4.0 certification it must be paired with Energy Star compliant configurations. There are plenty of Energy Star monitors. A nice match for the HP Compaq rp5700 is the 17-inch HP L1745 Flat Panel Monitor–or just check out the wide range of HP Compaq Energy Star certified monitors available to choose from. Going Energy Star on your configurations is very important. An Energy Star qualified computer monitor uses up to 85% less electricity than standard models.

As discussed in my previous post, Back to School Energy Efficient Computers Part I, The Environmental Protection Agency recently introduced higher standards for Energy Star computer certification (called Energy Star 4.0). In order, to achieve Energy Star 4.0 status, computers must reach higher energy efficiency standards for idle mode, sleep mode, and standby mode.

If you’re wavering between a laptop or desktop you should know that laptops–by far–conserve more energy than desktops. Comparatively, laptops save more energy than stand alone PCs . . . some laptops even use half the energy of their desktop relatives. Energy Star 4.0 certified laptops blow the average desktop out of the water.

Personally, I am a big Mac fan. After some PC virus frustration, I switched to Mac. I love the sleek design and idiot-proof operating system, but when I learned about Apple’s environmental initiatives I became a Mac enthusiast. Apple considers environmental impact at all product life cycle stages–from product and packaging design to manufacturing to recycling upon product death or disposal.

Since 2001, all Apple computers and displays have earned the original (2000) ENERGY STAR® rating.
Apple Mac and the Apple MacBook Pro either in a 15.4 inch screen or 17 inch screen have already received the impressive Energy Star 4.0 certification. I have the 15.4 inch MacBook Pro and I could not be happier with it. An all around fantastic miracle-machine! To boot, the 15.4 inch MacBook Pro, in particular, is an eco-bonus. The 15.4 MacPro Book is the only model that uses LED backlighting in order to eliminate the use of mercury and extend battery charge.

If Mac’s are not your cup of tea (I think you’re crazy but I won’t hate), then consider an Energy Star 4.0 certified PC laptop. Hewlett Packard has two great options that have gotten excellent consumer reviews. The (HP) Hewlett Packard’s Compaq 6515b Notebook and 6715b Notebook are both 4.0 certified and will save you a bundle of energy and money.

Stay tuned for Sunday’s post in which I’ll cover Energy Star 4.0 desktop options . . .

These days, a computer is a necessary part of school—especially if your child is heading off to college. College educators generally agree that a personal computer is essential—if not obligatory—to one’s college education. If your family can afford a computer think of it as an investment. If your family can not afford a computer, your child’s college should be able to recommend academic discount applications and computer financing options.

Affordable or not, buying a computer could not come at a better time. Just three weeks ago, The Environmental Protection Agency announced updated Energy Star computer requirements—Energy Star 4.0 certification. To receive the Energy Star 4.0 badge, computers must meet these requirements:

- Internal power supplies must run 80 percent efficient (a third better than most computers now).

- A mid-level powered-on desktop should use less than 65 watts of power (30 - 40 percent better than most current desktops)

- A standard powered-on laptop should use less than 14 watts of power (half of what most laptops currently use).

- Computers with external power supplies must use an Energy Star rated supply to obtain an Energy Star ranking for the machine

The Energy Star 4.0 certification is so new that most energy efficient desktops and laptops meet the previous Energy Star requirements and have not yet passed the the Energy Star 4.0 qualification. There are, however, some diamonds in the ruff, and as computer manufacturers realize the importance of energy efficiency, the number of 4.0 Stars is growing every day. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that over the next five years, the updated Energy Star computer spec will save American businesses and consumers $1.8 billion in energy costs, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the emissions of 2.7 million cars.

Stay tuned for tomorrow’s post on those Energy Star 4.0 computers available now . . . just in time for back-to-school.

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, this morning toymaker Mattel recalled 9 million toys (popular characters include Polly Pocket, Barbie, and Batman). The toys have been recalled because some of the toys have magnets that can be dislodged and swallowed. Other toys are contaminated with lead paint.

If two or more magnets are swallowed they could magnetize within the intestines, which would cause a range of internal complications. If lead paint is ingested it can cause vomiting, anemia, and more serious neurological complications. Lead is taken so serioulsy because it is a, “cumulative toxin” and sits in the body—accumulating for years. Upon Upon the first signs of lead poisoning—paralysis in hands and legs, neuropathy, and degenerative brain disease—it is already too late—the damage irreversible.

This is Mattell’s second China made toy recall in two weeks. August 2nd, Fisher-Price recalled 1.5 million toys made in China over worries of lead paint. Toys included Dora the explorer, Big Bird, and Elmo. On June, 1.5 Million Thomas The Tank Engine and Friends wooden railway toys were recalled due to high lead traces. Today’s recall of 9 million is one of the largest recalls of Chinese products. Chinese product goods (ranging from seafood to toothpaste to dog food) have come under harsh scrutiny worldwide for containing potentially dangerous high levels of chemicals and toxins—especially lead.

I therefore urge you to buy organic toys for your children. There are so many great options to choose from. Not only will you be helping the environment, but you’ll also be protecting your child from possible harm.

I get a lot of questions about organic cotton and bamboo. Both are great eco-fabrics, but which is better?

Besides being amazingly soft to the touch, bamboo is a highly sustainable resource. A grass, it’s the fastest growing plant in the world and is 100% sustainable. Bamboo is also naturally anti-microbial, which means the fabric actually prevents bacteria from growing on it, resulting in clothing that remains odor-free longer than other fabrics . . . meaning less trips to the dry cleaner, which is always a major plus for the planet and your wallet!

Bamboo production, however, is not completely virtuous as there are harmful chemicals used to breakdown the bamboo into fabric, but bamboo growth does not require any pesticides.

Cotton on the other hand uses a plethora of pesticides. In fact, five of the top nine pesticides used on cotton in the U.S. (cyanide, dicofol, naled, propargite, and trifluralin) are KNOWN cancer-causing chemicals. All nine are classified by the U.S. EPA as Category I and II— the most dangerous chemicals.

Organic cotton is therefore a great option because it uses neither harsh chemicals nor pesticides for growth and production purposes. I especially like organic cotton for babies. Look at these sweet little wide leg pants. They’re made from organic cotton and look very comfortable. I wish they came in my size.