Ask EcoGirl: Greening Medicine

GREENING MEDICINE

Dear EcoGirl: Thank you for your recent column, "Eco-Remedies for Our Health Care Crisis." Could you say more about the specific ways that we can use environmental knowledge to help care for people and the planet? Signed, A Motivated Healer

Dear Motivated Healer: Thanks for your great question!


Three Key Eco-Objectives

Amidst all the fiery debates about who should pay for health care costs, a more essential question can get lost: How to trim costs (and heartache) by reducing the rates of disease. A vital but often overlooked way to accomplish that goal is for all of us to embrace and prioritize these three key eco-objectives:

1) Drastically reduce our individual and shared exposure to toxics and pollutants. Compelling evidence demonstrates that millions of people annually are being made seriously ill from these materials. We need to "just say no" to involuntary poisoning.

2) Emphasize an eco-healthy diet, both in our lives and our hospitals (please!). We receive the highest nutrition and lowest toxicity by eating food that's fresh, whole, organic, and low on the food chain. Organic agriculture also proves that we can grow our food without poisoning our air and water.

3) Integrate earth-friendly traditional healing as an equal partner with modern medicine. Traditional modalities treat the body and earth gently, reducing the negative impacts on both. These approaches are often better at identifying and adjusting health imbalances early, when they're easier, cheaper, and less traumatic to treat.

Assess Your Priorities

To identify your next desired actions in each of the above areas, ask yourself:

1) "How much do I know about the problems and solutions in each arena?"

2) "How much have I implemented the related solutions in my personal and professional life?", and

3) "How much am I supporting community-level action in these arenas?"

As you consider your answers, notice the issues to which you feel especially drawn. This will help you choose actions most connected to your passions and priorities. Many resources exist to help you find out more, including my past columns at www.askecogirl.info.

Pharms in the Water

Both patients and health professionals can reduce medicine's eco-impacts by disposing of pharmaceuticals properly and using them only when necessary.

While pharmaceuticals can help treat disease, they can also bring negative side effects to patients, and harm wildlife and water supplies through disposal and excretion. Most sewage and water treatment facilities aren't designed to remove these materials.

Actions you can take:

• Dispose of leftover pharmaceuticals responsibly, not in the trash or drain. Local dropoff information is at www.scwa safemeds.org or call 547-1900. Or bring them to the Household Toxics Facility (www.recyclenow.org, 565-3375).

• Minimize your pharmaceutical intake. If you're prescribed a new drug, consider getting a second opinion. Buy drugs in small quantities to limit leftovers. Don't pressure your doctor for medications they're not recommending.

• Doctors can help by prescribing only the amount needed and learning which drugs have the highest eco-toxicity.

• Explore non-pharmaceutical approaches to nurturing your health and addressing problems. Discuss options (such as herbs, acupuncture, and lifestyle changes) with a health care professional experienced with these options. Traditional remedies are often cheaper, more effective, and lower in risk than more drastic measures later on.

For more information about reducing pharmaceutical waste, see www.epa.gov/ppcp and the Teleosis Institute's Green Pharmacy Program (www.teleosis.org, (510) 558-7285).

Greening Operations

Health professionals can also help protect both the earth and our health by avoiding mercury medical devices and not burning waste. This prevents dispersal of toxic mercury, lead, and dioxin into our shared air, water, and food.

Operations staff can make medical facilities healthier for both patients and workers by avoiding toxic cleaners and pesticides, building and remodeling with non-toxic and eco-materials, and serving fresh nutritious organic food instead of depleted mainstream food.

For more about greening medicine, check out Health Care Without Harm (www.noharm.org).

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at .

You can also become a Facebook fan of "Ask EcoGirl", to show your support and stay in touch! Join at www.facebook.com/AskEcoGirl.

"EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone."

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2010. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl: Eco-Remedies for Our Health Care Crisis

Dear EcoGirl: The health care crisis is such a timely topic right now. Can an environmental perspective help provide solutions?

Signed, A Health Advocate

Dear Health Advocate: Ah, what a great question. Yes, I’ve been amazed that, amidst all the fierce health care debates, the environmental dimension is still largely being ignored, even given the clear connections between our high illness rates and exposure to environmental pollutants and everyday toxics.

Unfortunately, I feel that neglecting this issue has been a key reason that illness and medical costs have been escalating beyond what our culture can afford. However, addressing this harm can help us produce our much-needed breakthroughs in reducing both illness and health care expenses.

The Vital Link Between the Environment & Our Health
A key remedy then is for our mainstream health care system to embrace, in both policy and patient care, these essential truths connecting the environment and our shared health.

1) The environment is not “out there” but intimate with our bodies. It’s the water we drink, the food we eat, the air we breathe, the products we buy, and the surfaces we touch everywhere in our lives. All the toxics and pollutants that our culture produces travel around the globe, harming people and the planet along the way — including us.

2) Humanity’s pollutants are consistently found in everyone’s bodies, no matter how clean our lifestyle. Did we really imagine that we could pollute the earth and not poison ourselves?

3) Everyday toxics are contributing significantly to high rates of common diseases.
A study by Safer Chemicals Healthy Families (SCHF, www.safer chemicals.org) estimates that toxic chemicals cause 30% of childhood asthma cases, 10% of diabetes and Parkinson’s disease, and 5% of childhood cancer. Chronic diseases such as these affect half our population, generating 75% of health care costs and 70% of deaths.

4) Modest changes could drastically cut illness and costs. The Milken Institute estimates that small environmental and behavioral changes could cut 40 million chronic illness cases by 2023. SCHF calculates that trimming just 0.1% from medical costs would save $5 bilbillion a year. Pam Palitz of Environment California says, “Good chemical reform policy is good fiscal policy. We literally cannot afford the status quo when it comes to toxic chemical exposure.”

True Prevention
When today’s medical system talks about prevention, it usually just means early detection. However, health professionals and individuals can help millions of people actually avoid disease by taking committed action towards these three key eco-objectives.

1) Drastically reduce our individual and shared exposure to toxics and pollutants.
There are many effective (and often cheaper) ways to meet our needs at home, work, and play, without poisoning ourselves, our families, other creatures, and water supplies. (See my past columns for tips plus Health Care Without Harm, http://www.noharm.org/).

It’s also important to take community level action, such as improving toxics laws (see my Nov. 2009 column), encouraging cleaner manufacturing and energy production (including phasing out coal and nuclear power), and supporting health groups that address environmental factors (such as Breast Cancer Action, http://www.bcaction.org/).

2) Prioritize an eco-healthy diet, both in our lives and our hospitals (please!).
Much of what nurtures a healthy environment also nourishes individual health, including eating fresh whole foods, low on the food chain, and organic. Most mainstream food has been depleted and polluted by toxic farming practices. Studies show that choosing organic notably reduces dietary and environmental toxics, increases nutrients, and encourages less-toxic agriculture.

3) Integrate earth-friendly traditional healing as an equal partner. A wide variety of traditional natural modalities have been proven over generations to skillfully assess and adjust body imbalances early, with little or no side effects to ourselves or the planet. This gracefully maintains our wellness at a much lower cost, while avoiding pharmaceuticals’ harm to our environment and water supplies. For more about integrating Western and traditional approaches, plus other key system reforms, see Dr. Weil’s book Why Our Health Matters. I hope that these ideas inspire you to help heal our medical system by reweaving it with the earth again.

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at http://www.askecogirl.info/.

Your can also become a Facebook fan of "Ask EcoGirl", to show your support and stay in touch! Join at www.facebook.com/AskEcoGirl.

"EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone."

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2010. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl:Sharing your Eco Love

Dear EcoGirl: This Valentine's Day, how can I express my love for both my sweetie and the planet? Signed, An Ardent Eco-Suitor

Dear Ardent: Ah, love, love. And, luckily in this modern era, we can celebrate not just the delights of romantic love, but also our affection and appreciation for our friends, pets, wildlife, community and certainly all life on earth.

So, yes, here are some easy ways you can eco-upgrade your amorous expressions, embodying your values while revealing that oh-so-attractive eco-awareness that so many beloveds admire.

Chocolate kisses

Chocolate, one of our favorite indulgences, also unfortunately (like so many mainstream foods) is often produced in ways that harm people and the planet.

For example, most cacao beans (chocolate's foundation) are grown using toxic pesticides in tropical locales where rainforests were cleared to create monoculture plantations that no longer offer shade habitat to migratory songbirds and other wildlife. Plus, workers typically labor in dangerous conditions for inadequate wages.

Luckily, we have options that are eco-wiser, healthier for workers, and even tastier! So, after you learn your giftee's preferences (e.g., milk chocolate or dark, dietary restrictions, etc.), head to your local health food store and choose from their earth-friendly selection of organic, fair trade, and vegan varieties. Here are two that I recommend:

• Shaman Chocolates. My personal favorite is dark chocolate with raspberries, and all varieties are organic, fair trade, and support the cultural survival of Mexico's indigenous Huichol people. These shamanic natives have long considered chocolate sacred, using it in ceremonies "to show their love for Mother Earth." How cool is that? Look at the store or see www.shamanchocolates.com.

• Sjaaks Organic Chocolates. This local organic fair trade chocolate (made in Eureka) comes in various forms, including bars, truffles, hearts, boxes, and holiday packaging. They even have vegan choices! You can buy Sjaaks in stores, online, and at their Petaluma warehouse (by appointment). More information is at www.sjaaks.com, 775-2434.

Rose blossoms

OK, so now on to the other half of this famed heart duo, roses. But certainly flowers are natural, right? Well, sadly, while they start out that way, they're often doused with toxic pesticides during growing and shipping, and regulations are less-protective than for food.

I discovered this personally many years ago, when a suitor's lovely bouquet gave me terrible headaches, and I reluctantly had to banish it to the porch, only to be viewed from afar.

Of course, whatever toxic dose I received, the workers must've risked worse, and indeed most of our cut flowers come from countries such as Columbia and China where workers have their health compromised by toxics while earning low wages and receiving scant worker protection. Yuck, who wants to encourage that? Plus pesticides are indeed found on the flowers, making them smell much less sweet.

So look for eco-flower options, starting with organic roses, at your health food store or online. See for instance pioneer Organic Bouquet, www.organicbouquet.com, or www.californiaorganicflowers.com.

You'll also see other flower labels touting ecological claims, but look carefully at their specifics. Do they actually say "no toxics allowed"? And do they have third-party certification? For example, VeriFlora and Whole Trade labels speak about the environment and workers, and perhaps they're an improvement, but they don't have strong statements about avoiding toxics. That's why I value, and encourage you to first support, the solid and clear commitments of the organic standard.

For an engaging article about workers in industrial versus organic flower operations, check out http://audubonmagazine.org/features0801/organics.html.

And beyond

From here, who knows where your eco-gifting imagination might go? Perhaps an organic potted flower will fit your vision, say from Harmony Farm Supply & Nursery (www.harmonyfarm.com, 823-1925). Or a romantic meal featuring organic local cuisine. And a walk in nature's freshness can help spark that vibrant snuggly togetherness. (More gift ideas are on my website.)

And, along the way, I encourage you to savor the joy that comes from nurturing that which nourishes us all in oh so many ways.

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Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at http://www.askecogirl.info/.

Your can also become a Facebook fan of "Ask EcoGirl", to show your support and stay in touch! Join at www.facebook.com/AskEcoGirl.

"EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone."

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2010. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl - Patricia Dines on Greening Your Resolutions

Dear EcoGirl: How can I include the earth in my New Year's resolutions?

Signed, Making a Plan

Dear Making a Plan: Thank you for your question. Yes, the new year offers us a handy time to step back and identify the changes we want to make in our lives. And it's smart to include caring for the earth among our intentions, because (1) the planet's well-being is key to our survival and the foundation of all we do; and (2) aligning with the earth can help us save money, be healthier, connect with others, and have more fun!

Here some example ways that you can eco-charge your New Year's resolutions. More about these and other useful actions is at www.askecogirl.info.

Resolution: Improve Your Health & Diet
Strategy: What's good for your body is often also good for the planet. Eating fresh whole local organic foods and less meat can help you lose weight, have more energy, avoid disease, and save money. Plus you'll reduce the eco-impacts of pesticides, packaging, industrial agriculture, and food transportation.
Action ideas:
• Explore recipes that get you excited about cooking from scratch with fresh produce and whole grains. You'll soon prefer it to processed products!
• Buy organic foods, to enjoy truly tasty and nutritious goodies grown without toxics. Organic is affordable when you buy direct and lower on the food chain. It's especially important to feed children organic, to reduce their exposure to toxics that can harm their development.
• Plan outings to local farms and farmers' markets. This trims food miles while helping local farms survive. Choose organic farms to reduce local toxics.
• Shop regularly at your local farmers' markets, or sign up for a farm CSA subscription, then savor your steady stream of farm-fresh delights.
• Plant an organic garden, to enjoy tasty healthy food that further trims your food miles.
• Designate one day a week or month as a vegetarian or vegan day, to reduce your livestock eco-impacts. (If you buy meat, choose organic from small farms.)
• Take walks in nature, alone or with others, for exercise that nurtures body, heart, and soul. Bring children along to encourage nature as their lifelong ally.

Resolution: Cut Home Energy Costs & Pollution
Strategy: Trimming home energy use saves money while reducing energy-related pollution and greenhouse gases.
Action ideas:
• Install a programmable thermostat to automatically lower heating costs while you're at work or school.
• Get a home energy audit, to identify your best opportunities for cutting energy waste and increasing efficiency. You can avoid up-front improvement costs with funding options such as SCEIP (www.sonomacounty energy.org).
• Consider solar power, after improving your home's efficiency, to reduce your use of polluting fossil fuels.

Resolution: Trim Driving Miles & Costs
Strategy: By cutting your driving miles, you can reduce your car expenses and pollution without buying a new car, plus often enhance relationships and integrate more exercise into your routine.
Action ideas:
• Seek carpool buddies for your trips to work, school, and more.
• Add public transit to your schedule. Get information on your local system and start by exploring a simple route.
• Designate one day a week or month as your "alternative commute day" and get to work or school by walking, biking, or taking public transit.

Resolution: Act at the Community Level
Strategy: By joining our efforts with others, we can help create the community-level changes needed to ensure that both we and the earth flourish.
Action ideas:
• Regularly contribute to groups you value. In addition to donating money, consider offering your time and skills, even for just a few hours monthly. You'll feel good connecting with like-minded souls and being part of the solution.
• Educate yourself and take action on eco-issues. E-mail lists from nonprofits can make that easier.
• Encourage your workplace and church groups to take eco-actions.

I hope these ideas help you enjoy the fun of turning our current challenges into opportunities for a better future!

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns.

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Trimming Your Holiday Waste - from EcoGirl

Trimming Your Holiday Waste

By Patricia Dines
Published in the Sonoma County Gazette, December 2009
(c) Patricia Dines, 2009. All rights reserved.

Dear EcoGirl: How can our family reduce the trash we generate during the holidays?
Signed, Overflowing

Dear Overflowing: Thanks for your great question. Yes, America's waste stream is 25% higher between Thanksgiving and New Year's, so this is a vital and fruitful time for us to cut back.
Did you know that since 2005 Sonoma County has been hauling 6,000 tons of garbage weekly to out-of-county sites? The recent and ongoing drama over how to reopen our county's dump is just one example of the many problems we can avoid by creating less trash.


Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
The easiest way to trim your trash (and overall eco-impact) is to practice the 3 Rs in everything you do.

So remember: Reduce what you buy, Reuse/Repair what you can, then Recycle responsibly. Also buy recycled and used items to complete the loop and support the reuse market.

Seasonal Tips
Here are some specific ways you can cut your holiday waste.

Entertaining & food
• Buy a potted Christmas tree. After the holidays are done, you can plant it outside to enhance your property.

• Label your recycling container with what goes in there, so that guests can help recycle and lighten your load.

• Buy food from bulk bins to reduce packaging waste, save money, and get only what you need.

• Set your table with washable plates, cups, silverware, and napkins. If you use plastics, wash them for later reuse.

• Compost food scraps in your home pile or via your green can. Most foods can go in, except meat, bones, cheese, and oil. Don't put in plastic or bio-bags.

Greeting cards

• Choose recycled paper cards. Avoid glitter and foil, as these aren't recyclable.

• Create unique and personalized cards by cutting images from magazines or last year's cards, then pasting them onto blank cards. Even add embellishments!

• Email online "e-cards" when possible.

Gift giving

• Offer experiences rather than products, such as: A massage gift certificate, a pre-paid class registration, theater tickets, a coupon for babysitting, cookie-making lessons, or a day helping clean out the garage.

• Bring your own bag for shopping, or accumulate purchases into one bag.

• Buy gifts that are: Durable, minimally packaged, used, recycled, and recyclable. Also help your giftees trim waste by giving them a commuting mug, battery recharger, or attractive cloth bag.

Gift wrapping

• Buy wrapping paper that's recycled and chlorine-free. Avoid metallics as they can't be recycled.

• Purchase and reuse holiday-themed cloth and paper gift bags.

• Reuse ribbon and bows; most can't be recycled.

• Wrap creatively, for instance with magazines, comics, sports pages, maps, fabrics, even paper bags. Kids can help decorate with stamps and drawings. Tie packages and bags with compostable raffia, twine, twigs, leaves, or flowers.

• Choose wrapping alternatives. For instance, tie sewing supplies with measuring tape, wrap kitchen utensils in a kitchen towel, and gather bath treats in a pretty storage basket.

After the festivities

• Save wrapping paper, ribbons, and cards for reuse next year.

• Recycle foam "peanuts" at a private mail center.

• Drop unneeded shopping bags at a thrift store for reuse.

• Recycle non-metallic holiday cards and wrapping paper in your blue recycling can, along with glass, cans, cardboard, paper, and most plastic.

• Put your Christmas tree in the green can, after removing decorations and cutting it to fit fully inside. Or call the Eco-Desk (565-3375) for more about their tree recycling options during the first half of January.

• Donate old toys, clothes, and more, to brighten someone's day while making better use of the embedded resource costs. Quality discards can go to a consignment store, netting a little cash.

• Donate and recycle electronic items, including phones, computers, TVs, and other gadgets. Keep these out of the trash as their toxics leach from landfills and poison people, wildlife, and ecosystems. A great place to donate is the Computer Recycling Center (Santa Rosa, www.crc.org, 570-1600). You can also recycle through some curbside services and household toxics centers.

For more information

• Sonoma County Eco-Desk. Find local recycling, donation, and disposal details on their website and the recycling section of the AT&T Yellow Pages (under "R"). www.recyclenow.org, 565-3375

• Book: Choose to Reuse, by Nikki & David Goldbeck. Wonderful ideas and resources for repair and reuse.

• Online: The Story of Stuff. This popular video engagingly illuminates the eco-cost built into every product we buy, inspiring responsible action. Share it with friends! www.storyofstuff.com

• Projects: Zero waste. Encourage cultural redesign that avoids waste by designing materials either for reuse or to harmlessly return to the earth. www. crra.com/grc/articles/zwc.html

• My online copy of this article has more tips and specifics for reducing waste, giving green gifts, finding used goods locally, consigning items locally, and composting at home. www.patriciadines.info/EcoGirl3d.html.

I hope these ideas help you walk gently on the earth this holiday season.

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at
Your can also become a Facebook fan of "Ask EcoGirl", to show your support and stay in touch! Join at www.facebook.com/AskEcoGirl.

"EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone."
© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2009. All rights reserved.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
OTHER WEBSITES OF INTEREST
Environmental activists seek green Black Friday, Nov. 27, 2009
http://networkedblogs.com/p19256648

A recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency report found that nonfood products and packaging are associated with 37 percent of America's greenhouse gas emissions - making them the largest source of greenhouse gases. A similar analysis by PPI puts that number closer to 44 percent when the emissions used to produce imported products are included.
Waste stats, http://www.cleanair.org/Waste/wasteFacts.html

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What Does Green Mean? Ask EcoGirl Patricia Dines

Dear EcoGirl: With so many companies claiming to be green nowadays, does this word even mean anything any more? How do I know which actions really make a difference for the planet? Signed, Greenwashed

Dear Greenwashed: Congratulations for wanting to help steer our culture in a truly positive eco-direction.

And, yes, while it’s great that earth values have become more popular, it does mean that we need to look beneath claims to recognize the more committed offerings and effective approaches. Here are some tips on how you can do this.

Ways to be Wisely Green
1) Understand the criteria underneath a product’s green claims. What are the specifics? How do these elements compare with others in the same category? Common valuable criteria include: organic, less-toxic, biodegradable, used, recycled, recyclable, energy-efficient, natural, durable, minimally-packaged, locally-made, and sustainably-harvested.

2) Learn the eco-labels. While eco-terms do help us make purchase decisions, the quality of their definitions and enforcement does vary. So, for instance, “organic” food has a strong definition and is enforced by law with third-party verification. Other terms, such as “natural,” generally don’t have legally-backed specifics so you’ll need to look further to clarify the producer’s meaning. Discover more about these labels at www.eco-labels.org.

3) Green your activities beyond products. While a particular product might be greener within its category (e.g., recycled paper towels), an even more earth-nurturing choice might to shift to a different approach (e.g., from disposable to reusable products).

Similarly, while it’s great to include green features if you’re already building a new house, the greener choice is usually to improve an existing home instead, thus leveraging the eco-investments already paid. (For great ideas on this, check out Natural Remodeling for the Not-So-Green House. Also, see the green building criteria at www.usgbc.org.)

And, if you need to buy a car anyway, certainly choose one with higher fuel efficiency. However, you don’t need to buy a new vehicle to reduce your impact. You can save the financial and eco-costs of a new car by looking for ways to reduce the miles you travel in your current car — for instance, by grouping errands together, carpooling, living closer to work, or adding some biking or public transit to your transportation routine.

4) Be guided by “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” This handy mantra helps us address the core problem in our cumulative activities: we’re outstripping the earth’s capacity in the materials we take and the waste and pollution we return. By reducing our consumption throughput, we lower the impacts at all phases of production, including mining, manufacturing, transportation, use, and disposal. We can also often save money and declutter our lives as well!

Therefore, look for ways to reduce what you buy, buy just what you need, and prioritize durable over cheap products. Minimize packaging by buying in bulk. Reuse by buying other people’s used items and selling or donating your own, thus making fuller use of each product’s eco-costs. Seek to repair or update items before discarding them. And, when a product’s usefulness is done, recycle it properly, thus offering the raw materials for new products. See how close to zero waste you can get in your life!

5) Be committed, not perfect. Taking action doesn’t mean that we have to do everything all at once; it’s OK to balance your choices with other priorities. Still, let the urgency of the earth’s current situation motivate you to keep finding opportunities to move in a greener direction.

6) Have fun. Eco-action doesn’t have to be about fear or suffering. Being part of the solution and aligning with the earth’s ways can bring you increased joy, creativity, and personal expression. Constructive action is the antidote to despair!

Make a game out of finding ways to protect the earth’s ecosystems and resources. As more and more of us do this, we’ll see the future become brighter for our children and all creatures on earth.

For more specifics on these ideas, see my other columns at www.askecogirl.info.

Email your questions about going green to (EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info) for possible inclusion in future columns. Also see “Ask EcoGirl” on Facebook!

“EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone.”

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Being a Smart Organic Consumer

Dear EcoGirl: I’m a newbie to organic foods, after finding out about my son’s food allergies. How do I know which companies are really upholding organic standards? Also, what does it mean when a product calls itself organic but has no USDA certified seal?
Signed, A Nurturing Mom

Dear A Nurturing Mom: Thank you for your interest in organic. This is an issue that’s personally important to me. I was made ill many years ago by a neighboring farmer’s pesticide spray. This led me to discover just how much harm these toxics do to our health and ecosystems, costing us all physically, emotionally, and financially.

So I’m grateful to have the option of organic — to reduce our toxic load, savor healthy delicious food, and encourage farmers to collaborate with nature again. Organic was created by countless grassroots farmers, consumers, and activists, and its success demonstrates our ability to collectively change the world.

I do also encourage folks to learn more about organic’s rules, to help make informed consumer purchases. Here are some basics to get you started.

Understanding Organic’s Rules

1) Organic food standards are written into law. Unlike other common eco-claims (such as green, natural, and sustainable), organic food specifics are legally defined and enforceable. So any food labeled organic in the U.S. must be grown, processed, and labeled according to USDA standards. This includes third-party certification of growing practices, including no use of toxic pesticides, synthetic fertilizers, GMOs, irradiation, or sewage sludge. (Small farmers selling under $5,000 a year are exempt from certification; their materials can’t be called organic in another’s product.)

Legally defining organic helps assure consumers of the methods used, so that we can know what we’re buying and supporting.

2) Organic produce is easy. Sometimes, in the debate about organic’s details, the bigger picture can get lost. For instance, the standards for organic produce are pretty straightforward and reliable: products need to be grown organically. Period.

3) Organic processed foods get more complicated. Because packaged products often include both organic and non-organic ingredients, they’re grouped into these categories:
• “100% Organic”: All ingredients (except water and salt) must be organically-produced.
• “Organic”: At least 95% of ingredients must be organically-produced. The other 5% can only contain items from the National List, with strict criteria including no GMOs.
• “Made with Organic Ingredients”: At least 70% of ingredients must be organic, with limits on the other ingredients including no GMOs.
• Ingredients list only: For products with less than 70% organic ingredients.

My way of quickly assessing a product is to see if there’s an organic percentage on the front, then read the ingredients label to see what’s organic. The “USDA Organic” seal is allowed only for the first two categories, but is optional.

Note: The 95% category was created to allow ingredients such as processing agents that are considered essential but not available organically. However, I feel that calling the resulting product “organic” is what creates most of the confusion and controversy in this arena. I’d like to see these items simply specify the organic percentage instead. For now, just be aware of this wrinkle.

4) Non-agricultural products jump on the bandwagon. With organic food’s popularity, other product types want to be called organic too. Unfortunately, the regulation hasn’t always caught up with these uses. For instance, organic has been defined for natural clothing fibers, but only in some cases for body care products. (For more regulation specifics, see www.ams.usda.gov/nop.)

Also note that fish and seafood have no legal organic standard. Guidelines have been proposed but called inadequate by consumer and environmental groups. So these items can be labeled organic, but it’s not tied to any official standard. (More on this is at http://littleurl.net/3f0cca.)

So, there you have it, an outline of organic’s essential rules. I encourage you to both buy organic and help it continue to evolve wisely. Through this, we can help nurture healthier lives for all. Believe me, farmers and businesses are watching our economic votes! (For more organic buying tips, plus other eco-shopping criteria, see the web version of this article at www.askecogirl.info.)

Email your questions about going green to (EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info) for possible inclusion in future columns. Also see “Ask EcoGirl” on Facebook!

“EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone.”

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2009. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl: Remaking the EPA

Remaking the EPA

Dear EcoGirl: The EPA too often seems to put corporate interests over its mission to protect the environment. Will President Obama’s EPA really be any better? Signed, Skeptical

Dear Skeptical: Thank you for your question. The short answer is — yes, I think that real improvement is possible, if we help.

The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) has indeed been seriously compromised by the Bush administration. Thus, many environmental observers were delighted when candidate Barack Obama said that, in his EPA, “the principle of scientific integrity will be an absolute, and I will never sanction any attempt to subvert the work of scientists.” President Obama’s choice for EPA head, Lisa Jackson, affirmed this commitment in her introductory letter to staff, pledging to “uphold the values of scientific integrity, rule of law, and transparency every day.”

Those heartened by this change in direction include the Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS), which for years has been drawing attention to the Bush administration’s “pattern of suppression, manipulation, and distortion of federal science” in order to advance predetermined policy objectives. This, says the UCS, has significantly hindered policymakers in making informed decisions, decreased agency effectiveness, threatened our ability to respond to our nation’s challenges, risked “demoralizing the federal scientific workforce,” and made “our government less accountable to the citizens it is supposed to serve.”

Among the countless decisions compromised was the EPA’s shocking choice not to set federal limits on toxic perchlorate levels in drinking water. It did this over the objections of its own scientists, removing from its report key scientific evidence of the reasons for concern. (I discuss this topic more in “Toxics & The Thyroid” at www.healthyworld.org/thyroid.html)

So it’s a relief to hear the EPA’s Jackson now call science the “backbone” of the agency’s programs, and speak her commitment to view data objectively and disclose the information supporting their conclusions. She outlined her five priority goals: reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving air quality, managing chemical risks, cleaning up hazardous waste sites, and protecting America’s water. She added, “These challenges are indeed immense in scale and urgency. But, as President Obama said [on Inauguration Day], they will be met.” (More about her staff letter is at www.ombwatch.org/node/9639

However, for that promise to be fulfilled, we citizens need to insist on its implementation, because ahead surely lie the pitfalls of vested financial interests, competing budget priorities, and bureaucratic inertia. We need to empower their ability to act.

I was encouraged by one detail I uncovered. It turns out that Jackson in her previous job (head of New Jersey’s Department of Environmental Protection) did support a five parts per billion perchlorate standard, which is within the National Academy of Science’s recommendations.

What You Can Do
I encourage you to learn more about the proposed improvements, then speak for the ones you value, either through the groups taking action or directly to President Obama at www.whitehouse.gov/contact. Also support the non-profits that inform us and coalesce our voices.

Here are some places to start.

• Union of Concerned Scientists. For UCS’s detailed recommendations (based on interviews with EPA scientists), and ways to join their efforts, see www.ucsusa.org/scientific_ integrity

• Pesticide Action Network (PAN). This international group, which works for global reduction of pesticide use, has submitted recommendations endorsed by nearly 100 organizations and thousands of individuals. Its top priorities include scientific integrity, transparency, accountability, public and environmental health, and a green and fair economy. View it and sign on at http://www.panna.org/agenda-for-change

• The Louisville Charter for Safer Chemicals. Signed by 70 groups, including PAN, this community-created declaration calls for government leadership in key areas of chemical policy, including restoring scientific integrity in chemical regulation, adopting the precautionary principle to ensure product safety before going to market, and increasing transparency in decision-making. www.louisvillecharter.org

As President Obama said election night, this moment “is not the change we seek; it is only the chance for us to make that change.” We need to take action for the possibilities to become real. But, because these vital intentions are being spoken at government’s highest levels, positive results become more possible and our efforts more effective. What a wonderful time to allow ourselves a glimmer of hope, then join with others in creating a better world. We certainly wouldn’t want to waste this opportunity, then wonder, “What if…?”

Email your questions about going green to (EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info) for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at www.AskEcoGirl.info.

“EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone.”

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2009. All rights reserved.

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ASK ECO GIRL: Pursuing Your Green Job Dreams

Pursuing Your Green Job Dreams

Dear EcoGirl: I want to get a green job, so that my work can help nurture the planet’s well-being. Where do I start? Signed, Job Seeker

Dear Job Seeker: Thank you for your question. Yes, greening our work activities is a vital way for us to be part of the solution. So, it’s wonderful to see eco-jobs being increasingly discussed in books, magazines, websites, courses, and conferences.

Even President Obama’s proposed economic stimulus plan includes provisions for creating green jobs, and encouraging a clean-energy economy, by investing in renewable energy, efficiency, public transit, and the like.

This combination of ecological, economic, and employment objectives has been championed for years by grassroots activists, such as the Apollo Alliance (www.apolloalliance.org) and Van Jones, president of Green for All and author of The Green Collar Economy.

Through this approach, we can address multiple problems at once — reducing fossil fuel use (thus trimming greenhouse gasses and health-harming pollutants); generating good jobs (hence lowering poverty rates and encouraging economic equity); and even saving money.

However, to achieve these outcomes, we need to pay attention to the details. For instance, with so many folks wanting to seem ecological, it’s vital that we ensure that truly earth-friendly approaches are prioritized and funded. To further explore the definitions, claims, and realities of green jobs, check out the articles at (www.alternet.org/environment/123819) and (www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2008/11/the-truth-about-green-jobs.html).

Steps to success
So how can a job-seeker skillfully align with this trend?

1) Make a realistic plan. Paid jobs in this arena are still just emerging, so this isn’t necessarily a quick way to make money. You’re more likely to succeed if you connect to your passion, plan for the long-term, and develop your ability to produce tangible results.

2) Refine your understanding of green, recognizing that it’s a spectrum not an absolute. Despite our common casual language, jobs aren’t really dividable into green and non-green ones, but rather come in varying shades.

My first criteria in assessing any activity’s green level is: How quickly and meaningfully does it help us shift from a negative to a positive relationship with the planet’s vital systems? With time so short and the tasks so large, it’s vital that we emphasize actions with the most impact.
Viewed from this perspective, earth-nurturing jobs can include not only those making essential new eco-products, but also those repairing old items, selling used ones, implementing energy efficiencies, and more. Especially look for activities that reduce fossil fuel use, resource extraction, habitat destruction, pollution, and waste.

3) Green the job you have. Explore ways to better align your company’s offerings and actions with the planet’s needs, thus reducing your organization’s eco-footprint and positioning it well for the future. Green’s current popularity can improve your proposal’s chances. Also, trim company expenses in ways that are eco-friendly (such as buying select quality products), not earth-harmful (such as purchasing cheap throwaway items). Encourage your field’s industry groups to support governmental ecological targets, recognizing that everyone’s survival depends on a functioning planet. Also, green your personal job activities, for instance by carpooling, biking, or taking public transit to work.

4) Look for green job options that fit you. If you’re seeking a new eco-job, don’t limit yourself to the “green collar” jobs being primarily suggested for blue collar workers. Not everyone would make a great solar installer. Instead, consider the skills you want to offer and the causes and organizations you’d like to serve. Even green companies need accountants and salespeople!

5) Continue developing yourself. Educate yourself about sustainability, to understand the remedies that will really make a difference. Cultivate the skills you’ll need for the roles you want to play. Connect with earth-friendly allies and organizations, to stay informed about this trend as it evolves. Consider volunteering, to gain both experience and credentials.

There are many resources to help you on your chosen path. Here are three to get you started.

• The Feb. 28 Santa Rosa gathering, “Good Jobs, Green Jobs National Conference Report Back Panel Presentation,” will feature representatives of the Youth Green Jobs Sonoma program (http://upcoming.yahoo.com/event/1746008, 236-7335).

• Hopland’s Solar Living Institute (www.solarliving.org, 744-2017) offers classes on sustainable living.

• I’ve created a webpage with links to green jobs (www.healthyworld.org/jobs.html).
Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at . “EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone.”


© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl: Happy Traveling on Public Transit

Dear EcoGirl: I want to use public transit, both for the planet’s well-being and my convenience, but I’m not sure how to start. Any advice? Signed, Stuck in Traffic

Dear Stuck: Thank you for your question. Yes, using public transit is a wonderful way for us to help decrease car pollution, reverse global climate change, embody a greener lifestyle, and trim our wealth transfer to oil-rich nations. According to the Union of Concerned Scientists, transportation is the largest source of U.S. air pollution and accounts for over 25% of our greenhouse gas emissions.

Shifting to public transit can also bring personal benefits, reducing driving hassles and cutting costs for gas, insurance, repairs, and parking. I see it as a “chauffeur for the rest of us,” transforming tense travel time into a chance to read, write, ponder, savor the scenery, connect with new folks, and experience our community in richer detail. Plus, our patronage brings vital support to the system, especially important with today’s government cutbacks.

Getting Started
• Begin with something easy, such as planning one trip. Consider how you’d take transit to work, school, shopping, the airport, a park, or an event. Look first for journeys that don’t require transfers and where timing isn’t critical, to help keep things relaxed. Use the resources below to identify appropriate routes, stop locations, schedules, costs, and parking options. (Note: Sports fans might be interested in Golden Gate Transit’s express bus from Santa Rosa to 49ers games.)

• Explore bus routes that stop near your house, visiting recreational destinations along their paths. (This idea comes from transit advocate Alice Linn.)

• Play with others. For instance, journey with friends to San Francisco or the coast. (For the latter, columnist Tish Levee recommends Sonoma County Transit’s summer route 29.) Also, Sebastopol Walks (info@sebastopol.org, 823-3032) offers bus-walk trips that combine exercise and camaraderie.

• Experiment with various types of trips, to learn what works best for you. Note: Some workplaces offer free transit passes to employees!

Key Resources
• Peruse information about area transit systems at www.511.org or call 511 (toll-free). Here you’ll find route maps, schedules, and fares, plus information on discount passes, bringing bikes on transit, and accessibility.

Another useful resource is Getting There on Transit, with overview maps of Bay Area systems. Download it at (www.mtc.ca.gov/library/getting_there/Getting_There_On_Transit-07.pdf) or request a free print copy from 510-817-5836 or (library@mtc.ca.gov). It’s from 2007, so confirm any route specifics.

• Learn the local options. Start with Sonoma County Transit (www.sctransit.com, 576-7433, 800-345-7433), which links to various city systems. Also look at Golden Gate Transit (www.goldengate.org, 415-455-2000), which goes to San Francisco via both bus and ferry. Download their New Rider’s Guide at (http://goldengatetransit.org/services/publications.php). These two transit agencies can link you to other area systems and points beyond.

Traveling Tips
• Prepare for your comfort. Dress for expected temperatures, ideally in layers, and with comfortable shoes. Bring water, maybe a snack, plus items to amuse yourself, such as reading or knitting.

• Make the connection. To ensure that you catch your bus, confirm that your schedule is current and arrive a little early. Bring exact change, a timepiece with the correct time, and the schedule in case your plans shift. Check that you’re at the right transit agency’s stop, on the correct side of the street, and boarding the desired bus.

• Enjoy the adventure. Your travel time can be an opportunity to get work done, find new perspectives, share engaging conversations, and discover new places.

Riders often experience memorable interactions. For example, Novato’s Lionel Gambill recalls meeting a Mongolian woman grateful that here she’s allowed to travel without her husband. Alice Tucker fondly remembers singing Motown on Route 20 to the River one night and meeting an Internet bride from the Ukraine. “Driving in a car can isolate you from people,” Alice comments. “It’s good to know your species.”

Santa Rosa’s Marsha Vas Dupre loves riding the MTA route from Santa Rosa to Sea Ranch. “Most riders are regulars,” she says, who chat with each other and welcome new passengers into conversations. Plus, she adds, “It’s soooo great not to have to drive and to be able to look at the incredibly beautiful scenery!”

And, of course, to feel part of creating a healthier world and future for all.

Thank you to the riders who shared their perspectives with me.

“EcoGirl: Encouraging the eco-hero in everyone.”

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl - GREEN & Ecological Solutions to Ant Problems

This month EcoGirl tackles ants as they seek shelter from the cold and rain. If you are noticing ant scouts exploring your home, now is the time to discourage their entry.

Taming Our Tiny Ant Friends

Dear EcoGirl: Help! Ants are invading my home. How can I banish them without resorting to a toxic spray? Signed, Under Siege in Guerneville

Dear Under Siege: Yes, it certainly can feel like an invasion when ants in their (quite reasonable) quest for food and shelter cross the boundaries of our homes, finding warm refuge from the weather and feasts in the crumbs and dribbles that we don’t even notice.

Still, you’re smart to resist the temptation to grab a poison spray, because it can harm the health of yourself and your family — and not even be worth the risk. A Stanford study found that toxic pesticides are no more effective than household cleansers in reducing home ant populations. Also, when ants’ homes are under stress, from winter rainstorms or summer droughts, it can be hard to keep them out no matter what you do.

A better way to preserve both your health and sanity is to use these easy less-toxic methods for constructively managing one of our most prevalent earth companions.

Your First Steps
• Eliminate what’s attracting the ants. Follow their trail to discover what food needs to be cleaned up, sealed up, or put in the fridge. Empty the trash and wash the can. If they’ve found your pet food bowl, place it in a larger dish filled with a soapy water moat.

• Block their entry point. Follow the ants’ trail back to where it enters the house, and plug those holes with caulk or toothpaste.

• Wipe paths with a clean soapy sponge, to remove the ants’ pheromone trail. For more potency, add vinegar.

• Be consistent about keeping your kitchen clean, wiping counters and putting food away. Avoid leaving food elsewhere in the house. I call these little guys “Housekeeping Ants” because (like a white-gloved matron) they show me where I need more attention in my housecleaning practices!

Kick It Up A Notch
If, even after the above steps, your ants still persist in their misadventures, try these additional methods.
• Remove outside attractants. Look at the outside wall of their entry point. Is something there attracting them, such as a garbage can, compost pile, or vegetation? Consider pulling that away from the house.

• Disrupt ant trails by placing pungent scents at key spots, such as entry points and around unavoidable enticements like houseplants. Just strategically sprinkle dried or fresh herbs, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, chili pepper, bay leaves, rosemary, spearmint, catnip, and sage. (Use whatever you have around.) Or make a spray by brewing any of these herbs into a tea; diluting their essential oils in water; or warming orange peels in water. (The latter has become my current favorite.)

If you want a ready-made option, consider the less-toxic insecticide Orange Guard, made from a by-product of steam-distilled citrus peels. All ingredients are FDA food-grade and GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe), and the product also works on other insects, such as aphids and fleas. Tests show that it has no significant toxicity to humans, though contact can irritate eyes or skin. Orange Guard is at stores (such as Sebastopol Hardware and Friedman’s) or see .
If It’s Still Serious

For stubborn and significant problems, consider these next-tier approaches.
• Use boric acid baits. If you truly can’t stop ants from coming into your home, this less-toxic pesticide can eliminate ants at their nest. In addition to boric acid (a mined odorless white powder used for a variety of insects), most baits include a sweetening lure and come in a convenient liquid form. Place baits out of the reach of curious pets and children.
Important: Read ant bait labels to avoid those with toxics such as arsenic, which can poison children, pets, and wildlife.

• Hire an expert who specializes in less-toxic remedies, such as bio-pest, 542-3030, .
And, while protecting your turf, remember the big picture — that the 10,000 species of ants around the globe are an essential part of nature’s miraculous interwoven systems. Plus these social insects can lift 50 times their own weight! How cool is that?

“EcoGirl believes that we can all be a superhero for the planet. Then she shows you how!”

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guide to Sonoma, Napa, & Mendocino Counties, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter.
Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at . Also contact EcoGirl for information about carrying this syndicated column in your periodical.

"More EcoGirl columns are available at <http://www.askecogirl.info/AEcolumns.html>. For more wonderful articles by Patricia Dines, see <http://www.patriciadines.info/GZ.html> and <http://www.patriciadines.info/i_whatsnews.html>."

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.

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Ask EcoGirl - Greening Your Holidays on a Budget

Patricia Dines, our intrepid Eco-Reporter, give us guidance on how we can tread lightly on the planet while giving holidays presents of value to those we love.

AskEcoGirl - November 2008
By Patricia Dines
EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info

Greening Your Holidays, On a Budget

Dear EcoGirl: Are there ways that I can celebrate the winter holidays cheerfully while treading lightly on both the earth and my wallet? Signed, Skimping in Rio Nido

Dear Skimping: Yes, you can create greener holidays — and save money too!

In fact, for all the unfortunate pain and suffering of this current economic downturn, it does potentially carry an ecological silver lining. Our culture’s reckless drive for growth has literally been devouring our planet. So perhaps today’s financial difficulties can actually help us lower our consumption levels to better match the earth’s capacity.

We can all encourage that outcome by looking for ways to buy just what we need, prioritize quality over quantity, avoid waste, and be efficient with energy.

Here are some ways to apply these principles in honoring your loved ones, the planet, and your finances this holiday season.

• Decorate with nature’s beauty. Bring nature inside to create a holiday mood, save money, and reduce manufacturing pollution and waste. How does your backyard inspire your creativity? Perhaps invite friends and family to join you in exploring nature’s art. With branches of bright red maple leaves, dried Queen Anne’s Lace, pine cones and boughs, and colorful squash and fruits, you can make attractive seasonal centerpieces, front door wreaths, and mantelpiece decor. String your holiday tree with popcorn and cranberries. After the festivities, offer what’s left to the birds and the compost pile.

• Fill your home with natural scents. Replace commercial scents and their mystery ingredients (often toxic petrochemicals) with diluted essential oils in a spray bottle; fresh flowers in a vase; or aromatic herbs such as cinnamon simmering in water or thrown in the fireplace. Much better!

• Choose affordable earth-friendly gifts. Reduce eco-impact by looking for items that are energy-efficient, minimally-packaged, locally-made, sustainably-harvested, less-toxic, natural, organic, fair-trade, “previously-owned,” recycled, or recyclable. (Read labels to understand and confirm green claims.)

Buying our wonderful local organic food and wine “direct from the source” cuts your costs, connects folks with our home-grown treasures, and supports healthier local agriculture. You can also save money by exploring consignment shops for gently-used clothing, toys, and more. Refurbish a “previously-owned” household item to personalize your gift-giving.

Homemade almost-anything let’s you make it organic and local. Food is always appreciated, but consider sharing your other passions too. For instance, one year my love of herbs became gifts of custom herbal scrubs and sachets.

• Trim your giftee’s everyday eco-footprint and expenses. Look at their daily activities to discover useful gifts, such as: A refillable Thermos for coffee or tea (to replace purchased beverages and Styrofoam cups); a battery charger and rechargeable batteries (to avoid buying new batteries and reduce toxic waste); cloth napkins (instead of paper ones); or an organic fruit tree (which brings delicious dividends throughout the years).

• Avoid cheap throwaway items. Even if these are inexpensive to buy (because of our short-sighted economic system), they’re costly to the earth in resources extracted, energy used, and landfill space.

• Shop ecologically. Go with a friend to save gas costs and increase camaraderie. Bring a cloth bag or consolidate purchases into one bag.

• Improve your wrap. Choose recycled and chlorine-free wrapping papers. Or cover packages with magazines, comics, sports pages, old maps, fabric, even brown paper bags stamped with pretty images and tied with raffia. Decorate packages or paper bags with leaves, twigs, and flowers.

• Give the gift of meaningful experiences. Easy low-impact presents that nurture your relationships can include: a coupon for an evening babysitting, a day helping clean out the garage, a pre-paid class registration, cookie-making lessons, a massage gift certificate, theater tickets, or a night out on the town. For extra points, choose a green activity. (Hmmm, perhaps an organic facial....)

• Discard responsibly. Setup an easy system for guests to help recycle holiday trash. Recycle foam shipping “peanuts” at most private mail centers. Keep toxics out of landfills by recycling your old techno-toys, including computers, TVs, phones, etc. Save wrapping paper and ribbons for next year’s reuse. Don’t burn wrapping paper; it can contain toxic metals. It’s OK to recycle non-metallic ones. More recycling information is at (www.recyclenow.org) and in the Recycling Guide in your Yellow Pages.

With just a little creativity, we can truly make this a season of love for all. For more eco-holiday ideas, see (www.healthyworld.org/ecoholidays.html).

“EcoGirl believes that we can all be a superhero for the planet. Then she shows you how!”

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guide to Sonoma, Napa, & Mendocino Counties, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter.
Email your questions about going green to for possible inclusion in future columns. Contact EcoGirl for information about carrying this syndicated column in your periodical.


"More EcoGirl columns are available at <http://www.askecogirl.info/AEcolumns.html>. For more wonderful articles by Patricia Dines, see <http://www.patriciadines.info/GZ.html> and <http://www.patriciadines.info/i_whatsnews.html>."

© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.

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Great Sources for Environmental Info

In this monthly column, Patricia Dines compassionately answers readers' questions about how to live an environmentally-responsible life. Her goal is to inspire and empower the eco-hero in everyone! For archives of previous columns, click on the Ask EcoGirl category on the right and in Previous Editions found on the WCG Home Page. Feel free to e-mail EcoGirl with your questions to EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info



Ask EcoGirl
By Patricia Dines
EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info

Great Sources for Environmental Info

Dear EcoGirl: I want to learn more about environmental issues, so that I can take effective action for the earth. What information sources do you recommend? Signed, Caring in Cazadero

Dear Caring: Your question reminds me of a delightful little moment in the classic film Casablanca. As they sit at a café, Captain Renault asks Humphrey Bogart’s Rick how he came to this remote north African spot. Rick answers, “My health. I came to Casablanca for the waters.” “The waters? What waters?” protests Renault. “We’re in the desert!” Rick shrugs, “I was misinformed.”

Beyond the smile that this scene brings, it’s also a reminder that information can either guide us wisely or lead us astray. Simple words become ideas then decisions and actions in the very real world.

Nowhere is quality information more vital than with environmental issues, where the fate of our world is literally at stake.

However, as the environmental topic has moved from our culture’s fringes onto the main stage, it has too often received the mainstream media treatment. This includes full-page celebrity photo spreads, dramatic stories that generate despair not informed action, inaccurate collapsing of complex issues into standard stereotypes, product pitches that continue promoting consumerism, and parroting of half-baked answers that ignore root causes.

This can leave us all feeling misinformed, and hungry for something better.

However, there is quality information available that can help us take wise actions for a better world.

How to Improve Your Eco-Info Stream
• Be intentional about your eco-info consumption. Passivity makes us vulnerable to manipulation by powerful interests.
• Determine what information you most want, then look for it. What topics or solutions especially resonate with you?
• Seek quality information, and support those creating it. This is vital for nurturing intelligent decision-making.
• Identify your approach to assessing information. Some things I look for: Does the author focus more on being dramatic and hip than on issues and solutions? Do they just repeat others’ ideas, or think independently? Are they willing to question mainstream notions, and do so responsibly, based on facts and logic?
• Read varied perspectives, including opposing ones, to gather key facts and sift out biases and blindspots.

Where to Find Wonderful Eco-Info
You can find eco-information in many convenient formats, including: magazines, books, books-on-tape, websites, newsletters, e-letters, action alerts, podcasts, documentaries, courses, conferences, and radio and TV shows.

• MAGAZINES. For keeping informed on a wide range of issues, I love E - The Environmental Magazine www.emagazine.com. Also, the quarterly Yes! magazine reports on solutions for a better world www.yesmagazine.org. Find other options at magazine stores; subscribe to your favorites.

• BOOKS. Discover wonderful green books at publisher Chelsea Green’s site www.chelseagreen.com. Peruse more choices online or at local bookstores.

• INFORMATION HUBS. A wide variety of eco-info is on EnviroLink, a nonprofit grassroots information clearinghouse www.envirolink.org. Many community actions and e-lists are gathered at Care2 www.care2.com. Rachel’s Health & Environmental News is a free e-newsletter with powerful information and perspectives www.rachel.org. For insightful analysis and remedies, explore the esteemed Lester Brown’s Earth Policy Institute www.earthpolicy.org and book, Plan B 3.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization.

• COURSES & EVENTS. If you prefer in-person learning, check out the always-inspiring Bioneers Conference, which brings together leading eco-change agents, from scientists to activists to native elders. This October San Rafael event sells out early. They also offer information in other formats www.bioneers.org.

Also consider Daily Acts’ Sustainability Tours www.daily-acts.org; Occidental Arts & Ecology’s courses www.oaec.org; and the Solar Living Center’s classes and summer SolFest www.solarliving.org.

• GROUPS. Nonprofit and advocacy groups that offer great eco-information, in various forms, include: the Sierra Club (with its magazine and local chapters) www.sierraclub.org; the U. S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG) and its California chapter (CALPIRG) www.calpirg.org; the Environmental Working Group www.ewg.org; the Environmental Defense Fund www.edf.org; the Natural Resources Defense Council www.nrdc.org; the Wilderness Society www.wilderness.org; the World Wildlife Fund www.worldwildlife.org; and Environment California www.environmentcalifornia.org.

To connect with local eco-groups, see the Environmental Center of Sonoma County at www.envirocentersoco.org. For eco-info on candidates and elected officials, plus policy recommendations, see the League of Conservation Voters www.lcv.org.

I hope that these leads help you discover information that engages you and empowers you to serve our vital cultural shifts with your passion and unique gifts.

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions to EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at www.AskEcoGirl.info. Also contact EcoGirl for information about carrying this column in your periodical. “EcoGirl believes that everyone can be a superhero for the planet. Then she shows you how!” www.AskEcoGirl.info


"More EcoGirl columns are available at <http://www.askecogirl.info/AEcolumns.html>. For more wonderful articles by Patricia Dines, see <http://www.patriciadines.info/GZ.html> and <http://www.patriciadines.info/i_whatsnews.html>."
© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.

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Discarding Your Stuff — Ecologically

Dear EcoGirl: Where can I pass along my unwanted items to others? I’d like to keep them out of the garbage, and maybe make some cash too.
Signed, Cluttered in Cazadero


Dear Cluttered: I’m delighted that you want to help reduce the waste sent to our overflowing landfills, thus lessening that environmental harm and the eco-costs of making and shipping new items. And, yes, you can also make money and feel good about contributing to others!
Waste reduction is especially vital in Sonoma County. Did you know that our local landfill was closed in 2005, because of contaminants leaking into groundwater? Since then, we’ve been hauling our 6,000 tons of weekly garbage to out-of-county dumps, emitting countless pollutants along the way.

The County can’t afford to fix the landfill, and hopes a corporation will invest. But then they might also revive a prior proposal to dramatically expand the dump. This risks increased harm to our water supply, nature’s creatures, and the sensitive neighboring Petaluma Marsh (California’s largest remaining unaltered tract of tidal wetlands).

That’s why it’s so vital to significantly reduce our trash! Our actions do make a difference.

Making a Plan
1) Take stock of what you have. Start by gathering your unneeded items. Is there anything you could repair, repaint, or refurbish, for yourself or others?

2) Identify your discarding priorities. Which items might be worth trying to sell? Which ones do you just want to go to loving homes? This will determine your next steps.

Your Action Options
1) Sell Directly. With this approach, you do the promotion, meet with folks, and keep the full sale price. Offer your goodies on local email lists, such as http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wacco-bb>. Post them online at www.craigslist.org, www.waccobb.net, and special-interest sites (e.g., for cars). Or place classifieds in general or specialty periodicals. Consider who might find each item useful and where they’d look for it.

2) Sell Through Consignment Stores. This approach allows you to sell your more-valuable items with less effort. Stores will bring in customers and manage logistics in exchange for about 40-50% of the sale price (usually paid after the item sells). Look for places online and in the phone book under Consignment, Antiques, and specific categories, such as Books, Clothing, and Sports. Ask shops what they take, drop-off hours, turnaround time to get on the floor (sometimes 4-8 weeks), and payment rates. (See box for some wonderful local shops.)

3) Hold a Yard Sale. Best for less-expensive items, a sale allows you to make some money, reach more folks at once, move a decent amount of stuff, connect with interesting people and neighbors, watch shoppers delight in their finds, and setup a “Free” area. Also consider a flea market booth ($18, 823-7874).

4) Giveaway Directly. To pass along a few items quickly, especially larger ones, leave them curbside with a “Free” sign. Or post on the above sites and lists, plus www.freecycle.org.

5) Donate to Charities. Support community groups, non-profits, and churches with donations to their activities, thrift stores, or yard sales. Contact groups you value, or look in the phone book or online under Thrift Shops and Charities. Some offer tax deductions. (See below for some great local outlets.)

6) Give Creatively. Consider who could use what’s left. For instance, offer medical items to a senior center; art supplies to a school or artist; egg cartons to a farmer; and a broken lamp to a repair store (to fix and resell, or use for parts). Even pencils can be given to the library!

For More Information
* Sonoma County Eco-Desk (565-3375, www.recyclenow.org). Their website and Recycling Guide (under “R” in the Yellow Pages) suggest places to discard many items (including toxic ones!).
* Book: Choose to Reuse, by Nikki & David Goldbeck. Great inspiration, ideas, and resources for repair and reuse.

For The Future
* Streamline by setting up an ongoing giveaway box or area.
* Complete the circle by buying used.
* Support zero waste projects. These efforts seek to align our culture with nature’s ways, where everything either becomes a resource for something else or returns harmlessly back into the earth. For more information, see www.crra.com/grc/articles/zwc.html.
So I hope this article helps you find useful homes for all your discards, now reborn as someone else’s treasures!

Ask EcoGirl is written by Patricia Dines, Author of The Organic Guides, and Editor and Lead Writer for The Next STEP newsletter. Email your questions to EcoGirl@AskEcoGirl.info for possible inclusion in future columns. View past columns at www.AskEcoGirl.info. Also contact EcoGirl for information about carrying this column in your periodical. “EcoGirl believes that everyone can be a superhero for the planet. Then she shows you how!”
© Copyright Patricia Dines, 2008. All rights reserved.


Where to Discard
By Patricia Dines

Here are some local favorite places to sell and donate your treasures. See my Ask EcoGirl article for more options and tips.

CONSIGNMENT STORES
* Pine Grove General Store (Sebastopol, 829-1138). Women’s, men’s, and children’s clothing, from casual to professional, plus jewelry, accessories, furniture, art, and home decor. Pays 40% of sale price.
* Shards & Remnants (Sebastopol, 823-1366). Clothing and accessories “to make you feel beautiful.” Velvets and silks more than jeans and t-shirts. Style important, mostly newer items, some vintage. “If I can’t use it, I’ll guide you to someone who might.” Pays 40% of sale price.
* Simply Chic (Santa Rosa, 578-8044). Women’s clothing, “high-end fashion that’s trendy, funky, and artsy.” Pays 40% of sale price.
* Hot Couture (Santa Rosa, 528-7247, www.hotcouturevintage.com). Bohemian readers voted this the county’s 2008 Best Vintage Store. Authentic vintage clothing (at least 35 years old), plus accessories, are bought (outright) for resale and costume rental. Purchase prices vary. Sometimes will buy items needing repair.
* Cotati Clothing (Cotati, 665-9401, www.cotaticlothing.com). Current or vintage stylish fashions, including accessories. No fur, lingerie, or jewelry. Buys outright, either 35% of the expected sale price in cash or 50% in store credit. (They also sell new eco-clothing, made of organic cotton, bamboo, etc.)
* Vicki’s Secret (Petaluma, 765-2807, www.vickissecret.com). Current-season high-end women’s apparel and accessories in pristine shape, less than two years old. Pays 40% of sale price.
* Red Umbrella Consignment (Petaluma, 778-3499, www.redumbrellaconsignment.com). Women’s clothing and accessories. Current seasonal fashions, bought within two years, better labels, excellent condition. Also vintage and contemporary furniture and decor, art, and some hand-crafted items. Pays 40% of sale price, 50% on furniture.
* New 2 You Consignment (Sebastopol, 823-7377). Children’s clothes, toys, and books, plus maternity. Buys outright for 40% store credit. (They have a children’s play area plus a dollar clothes rack.)
* Sweet Pea Children’s Consignment (Cotati, 794-1215). “Upscale Resale Children’s Boutique,” specializing in new and gently-used children’s clothing, maternity wear, infant and educational toys, books, baby equipment, and more. Offers local handmade items. Pays 35% of sale price.
* Zoe Clothing & Kid Exchange (Petaluma, 775-3239). Women’s and kid’s clothes, jewelry, and bags. Pays 40% of sale price.
* Harry’s Second Hand Warehouse (Santa Rosa, 526-7713). Buys mostly furniture, outright.
* Furniture Consignment Gallery (Santa Rosa, 523-3680). Furniture plus art, lamps, etc. Pays 55% of sale price.
* Play It Again Sports (Santa Rosa, 527-7678, www.playitagainsportssantarosa.com). Sports items, from treadmills to weights to ski equipment. Buys outright (30% of expected sale price in cash, or 40% store credit), or on consignment (50% cash, when it sells).
More places are at http://consignment-thrift-shops-in-santa-rosa-ca.yellowpagesltd.com.

CHARITIES & THRIFT STORES
* Sutter VNA & Hospice Thrift Store (Sebastopol, 824-4712). Donated clothing, furniture, and household goods are sold to benefit hospice care.
* Goodwill (Santa Rosa and more, 545-2492, www.gire.org). Donated clothing and household items are sold to fund Goodwill’s job training, placement, and support programs for people with disabilities and other special needs, and those transitioning from welfare to work.
* The Clothing Closet (Santa Rosa, 523-0550 x281/Peggy, www.gire.org/programs/profiles/csv). Donated women’s and men’s professional clothing and accessories are given to underprivileged people as part of helping them get jobs.
* Sack’s on the Square (Santa Rosa, 541-7227). Clothes, jewelry, household items, CDs, art, and holiday items are sold in this thrift store to benefit two charities. Bohemian readers voted this the county’s 2008 Best Secondhand Store.
* Recycletown (Petaluma, 795-3660, www.garbage.org). Accepts used paint, building materials, furniture, bikes, appliances, mattresses, lamps, pans, tools, clothes, toys, and more. Sale proceeds support this non-profit’s eco-educational work.
* ReStore (Santa Rosa, 568-3228). Habitat for Humanity resells salvaged building materials to support their affordable housing work.
* Computer Recycling Center (Santa Rosa, 570-1600, www.crc.org) Drop off old computers and tech items, and this pioneering non-profit repairs, sells, and donates them to schools and others. Leftovers are recycled responsibly. Repair services are also available.
* Public libraries (Various, 545-0831 x541, www.sonomalibrary.org/friends). Donations of books, CDs, DVDs, art, and software are sold periodically to help support the libraries.
* The Living Room (Santa Rosa, 579-0142, www.thelivingroomsc.org). The county’s only daytime drop-in program specifically serving homeless and at-risk women and children offers them food, information, and referrals. Their website lists donation needs, including women’s and children’s clothing, blankets, small toiletries, strollers, spiral notebooks, craft supplies, and basic foods.
* The Legacy (Sebastopol, 823-7520, www.sebastopolseniorcenter.org/legacy.htm). Drop off cloth, sewing supplies, and craft materials for resale. They do some consignment. Benefits the Sebastopol Senior Center.

"More EcoGirl columns are available at <http://www.askecogirl.info/AEcolumns.html>. For more wonderful articles by Patricia Dines, see <http://www.patriciadines.info/GZ.html> and <http://www.patriciadines.info/i_whatsnews.html>."

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