Last week’s National Clean Energy Summit provided a partial snapshot of the status of our nation’s shift toward clean energy. It featured a wide range of presentations representing green building, military, commerce, transportation, utilities, manufacturing and labor interests. The message was strong and clear: Renewable energy along with a vast array of innovative technology is […]
Recreating the American Home – The Passive House Approach
I found a great book and I’m recommending it to anyone who would like to know more about just what a high-performance home can be. It’s called “Recreating the American Home: The Passive House Approach” by Mary James. The publisher is Low Carbon Productions. Ms. James has put together an extraordinary and diverse collection of […]
In Memory of Ray Anderson
I never met Ray Anderson but he had a profound effect on my life. I learned much from him. I believe others can too. Thank you Ray, for proving that a better world is possible. We must only decide to make it happen.
Thoughts on Water Use in the Mojave Desert
Recent malfunctions in our home’s irrigation system have wreaked havoc with my water efficiency efforts. The real problem wasn’t the leak, sometimes things happen and occasional maintenance is necessary. The issue was that the leak went undetected until weeks later when the water bill showed up. Water is a basic human right and is priced […]
Green Revolution and the Clean Energy Summit
Think about this: We are living during an incredibly unique period in the ongoing history of humanity. How often did that same thought cross the minds of our ancestors? Did the first generation of farmers realize the profound impact the agricultural revolution would have on the formation of modern society? In the early years of […]
Cool and Green
Green living happens when we apply conscious thought to everyday life; when vision coupled with planning intersect at appropriate times. Setting yourself up for success is the key. Since summer is here, let’s use an appropriate example. Most of us would not care to live in Southern Nevada without modern air-conditioning systems. We depend on […]
Celebrate Independence
Nothing is more important to the human spirit than freedom. People sacrifice their lives so that others may experience it. As we celebrate our country’s independence this weekend, friends and family will gather for barbeques and many homes will display the flag. In addition to displaying a symbol of our patriotism, our homes and businesses […]
Can’t Have it Both Ways
Energy Use: Perception vs. Reality I’ve done energy surveys on hundreds of homes to determine their suitability for renewable energy systems. One thing that I’ve learned is that many people are out of touch with energy reality. This is especially true in the U.S. where we’ve experienced more energy abundance (and waste) than any previous […]
Jane Feldman’s Green Home
Green Living is an attitude more than anything else. At its core, there is deep caring and a sense of value for things that often do not carry an obvious price tag. Sure, anyone with ample cash can go out and buy a bunch of green stuff: a hybrid car, an efficient house or a […]
Kitchens can be Greenest
What room is (or has the most potential to be) the greenest room in your home? It’s the kitchen – by a mile. You can drive a hybrid or even walk to work, take water-sipping showers, and put solar panels on the roof, but nothing can match the benefits of a green kitchen. It requires […]