Signs of Global Warming: Think global, message local

If record-setting heat waves and thousand-year floods aren’t enough visual proof of global warming, maybe art will help. The Franklin Institute, in collaboration with local partners, is using artful signage to spread the word about climate change — and what Philadelphia neighborhoods are doing to minimize its impact. 

More
1 min read

Gone with the Wind: PECO Wind is defunct, but you can still buy local, renewable energy

story by Liz PachecoSince 2004, the PECO Wind program has allowed customers to purchase renewable electricity that supported wind projects in Pennsylvania. But as of December 31, the PECO Wind program ended, leaving 20,000 customers without service.
The good news for these 20,000 customers--as well as anyone interested in buying renewables--is that there are plenty of

More
1 min read

Against the Grain: Shiny furniture without the fumes

When the time came to purchase a dining room table, I fell in love with a piece made from stunning, richly grained mango wood. The table was an extravagant purchase, so I listened very carefully while the salesperson recited care instructions. Then I dutifully purchased the recommended furniture polish.
As soon as the table was delivered,

More
1 min read

Brush It Off: Homemade toothpaste, without the toxins

Story by Leah Troiano

WHEN YOUR CHILD'S DENTIST asks to talk with you privately, it’s never good news. As my little darling finished her check up, the dentist informed me that she admitted to not brushing enough. Although I wasn’t happy about her confession, I wasn’t surprised to hear she

More
1 min read

Environmental Art: Local rain barrel takes first prize in nationwide contest

You might never imagine a rain barrel as public art, but that’s exactly what Rittenhouse neighbors Karen Villareal and Pat Harner have created. Their fly fishing-inspired rain barrel recently won first prize in Plow & Hearth’s Water Colors Contest—a competition designed to raise awareness on water conservation by challenging contestants to paint rain barrels and

More
1 min read

Celebrate the Blue Bin: Philly recognizes America Recycles Day 2012

Image via theilladelph.blogspot.comHere in Philadelphia, the curbside recycling program has grown tremendously. From June 2011 to June 2012, the City collected 120,000 tons of recylcables—an increase of 137 percent. Today, the City is celebratng this success and encouraging another year of recycling with Philadelphia's official America Recycles Day. All day, throughout the city, celebrations and

More
1 min read

Merchants of Cool: Grid’s 2012 Holiday Gift Guide

Finding that special holiday gift that won’t be tossed aside with the wrapping paper can be a challenge. So, here’s our advice: Buy gifts that are totally cool. What does that mean exactly? Consider these criteria before opening your billfold:  1 Is the gift homemade? 2 Is the design thoughtful? 3 Are the materials salvaged

More
1 min read

Recycling Challenge: Vinyl Records

story by Samantha WittchenFact
Last year, 3.9 million vinyl records were sold in the U.S., the highest amount since 1991.
Problem
With vinyl records making a resurgence, you might be thinking twice about tossing those old 45s. But if you do trash them, the landfill is not the best place. Most old-school vinyl records are made with Polyvinyl

More
1 min read
1 3 4 5 6 7