Recycling Challenge: Fire Extinguishers

story by Samantha WittchenFACT: Fire extinguishers should be inspected annually to make sure they’re charged properly and in working order. Every six years, an extinguisher must be taken apart, examined and recharged.

 
PROBLEM: Fire extinguishers in the U.S. are often filled with Halon 1211, the trade name for an ozone depleting gas that is hazardous

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Down the Drain: City program diverts food waste from landfills

story by Liz PachecoWhile the city of philadelphia isn’t planning to start a composting program anytime soon (see our interview with Mayor Michael Nutter on p. 12), efforts are being made to divert food waste from landfills.
In May, Mayor Nutter and the Streets Department launched the Clean Kitchen, Green Community pilot program. The program is

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Green Living: Lip Service

Last month, I talked about the toxins in skincare products and, unfortunately, cosmetics aren’t exempt from those same dangers. Did you know many lip products may contain lead? Even though it’s not listed in the ingredients label, lead can be a byproduct of the manufacturing process. If you’re putting a product

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Green Living: Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan: Phase II

Input from Philadelphia citizens—through completed surveys and community meetings—played a major role in developing Phase I of Philadelphia’s Pedestrian and Bicycle Plan (released in October). The plan detailed recommendations and strategies for creating a more pedestrian and bike-friendly Philadelphia.

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Green Living: Energy Tips for Philly Renters

Replace your lightbulbs and leave your lights ON - If you haven’t already taken advantage of PECO’s low-cost CFLs—available at retailers all over the city—get thee to a hardware store! According to EnergyStar.gov, swapping out the energy-guzzling incandescents in your five most frequently used lighting fixtures can net you $65 in annual savings.

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