I noticed today that many people in my neighbourhood [including our ourselves], took advantage of the unseasonably warm weather to get the Christmas lights put up around the outside of the house.

This commencement of the Christmas decorating once again brought to the forefront a conflict I face every year.

On one hand, I love the twinkle of the brightly coloured lights, the warmth and radiance of a fire in the hearth and the serene beauty and wonderful scent of a freshly cut Christmas tree all decorated and dazzling.

Whereas, the other half of my brain is looking at the energy waste, pollution and questionable forestry practices.

The solution for me, like many things, lies in compromise and being aware of 'green options'.

For example, our outdoor lights are not only on a timer, but a light sensitive timer that is readily available at most hardware stores. All that we do is set the length of time we want the lights to be on after dark has set. There are two advantages with this system. One, we never have to worry about forgetting to turn off the lights; and two, from a security perspective, our lights go on whether we are home or not.

I would also suggest taking a look at the LED Christmas lights that are now on the market. The advancement that has been made with this product segment in the last few years is quite astounding!

As for the Christmas tree, in the past we have purchased a live tree from the local nursery to plant permanently in the backyard [or some other spot] come spring. The downside with this is that a 3' tree really does not meet the Christmas image our eleven year old son has in his mind.

To accommodate this we have started buying a fresh cut tree from either a charitable organization [Boy Scouts] or from Ikea that has a 'plant a tree' program associated with their tree sales.

The final component that makes this fresh cut tree as eco-friendly as possible is that in January we are fortunate enough to have a city tree pick up program whereby all the trees are chopped up and used for paths in the local park system.

The fire in the hearth is a little bit more difficult for me to figure out an earth friendly method. Fortunately, we do not have a fireplace, so I do not have to wrestle with this issue very often. As near as I can tell, the biggest problem with fireplaces is the fine particulate that is released into the air. Just think when you go by a house that has a fire burning that you can smell it. That smell is proof of the fine particulate that appears to be a much greater pollution problem then was initially thought.

There are a couple of solutions to this problem. One, burn those 'fake logs' that burn clean; alternatively, make sure the wood you burn is as dry as possible as this will decrease the smoke [aka fine particulate]. Finally, if you are looking at a new fireplace, take a look a some of the new technology involving high efficiency technology that will facilitate the maximization of heat, but minimization of pollution.

The good news is that increasingly people seem to be looking for real ways to be gentle to the earth while at the same time be understanding that a Christmas without sparkly lights is somehow just not right!

Way to go Canada!

It was reported by Statistics Canada yesterday that Canadians made a record number of charitable donations in 2005.

More then 5.8 million Canadians contributed a record total of $7.9 billion! This is a 13.8% increase over 2004 rates and was evident across all provinces and territories. Statistics Canada Press Release

As you may recall this increase came in a year when the world called out for help. First the Tsunami hit Southeast Asia, then Katrina hit New Orleans and a powerful earthquake hit Pakistan. It is wonderful to see that Canadians were willing and able to respond in such numbers and with such generosity!

Through this generosity demonstrated by Canadians, not only have millions been helped in their time of most need, but the world is a better place for all.

Happy Friday!

We are Growing!

Even though this blogspot is only about six weeks old the volume of information and vastness of resources is such that a sister blogspot has been born.

Please check out the newest member of the family: Eco Building Options !

This new site will be the home for information on the ever expanding world of green building products, and specifically those available in Canada.

I plan to continue with the Common Sense Green blog as a source for thoughts, resources and ways that average person can be more gentle to the earth; with the Eco Building Options site focusing on the specific area of green products to consider when doing either new construction or renovations.

I would also like to announce that in the next few weeks it is likely that both of these blogs will graduate to being a full fledged independent website. Among other things, this would allow for a more sophisticated and robust resource for all to enjoy. Will let you know!

Green From the Top Down

One of the green options that has intrigued me for many years is that of 'green roofs'. I have lost count of the number of times I have muttered about all the 'wasted space' on the top of buildings.

Acres and acres of space that is not only wasted, but worse, with the summer sun beating down on it heat islands are created on the outside while air conditioners are chugging away on the inside. Unfortunately by the time the winter months come along, the heat islands have dissipated and now the furnaces are chugging away heating the building that has a huge top surface that could be so much better protected.

I am happy to report that it appears some of the top officials at the City of Toronto have not only been muttering about roof tops, but are taking action! In February 2006, the City of Toronto announced the Green Roof Pilot Program whereby for eligible, privately owned buildings, they will provide a grant of $10 per sq metre of green roof area up to a maximum of $20,000 per building.

As per the press release:

Green roofs mitigate the effects of storm water in the city, improve building's energy efficiency, reduce the urban heat island effect, improve air quality, beautify the city, provide locations for gardening and food production, and provide passive recreational space in densely populated neighbourhoods. If eight per cent of Toronto's area were converted to Green Roofs, summer temperatures could be reduced by as much as 2 degrees Celsius.

Wow!

What is even more surprising, at least for me, was the $200,000 set aside for this pilot program is coming from Toronto's Water budget!

I was able to make the connection between green roofs and energy conservation, however, what I had not considered was the significant impact green roofs would have on decreasing the cost of storm water maintenance.

For a full breakdown of all the potential savings associated with green roofs I recommend you take a look at this report from Ryerson University: Report on the Environmental Benefits and Costs of Green Roof Technology for the City of Toronto .

The deadline for applications for this pilot project was October 16th 2006, so hopefully details about upcoming projects will soon be available.

Consumers can Help Save the Fish

As you might have heard, a few weeks ago a report came out of Dalhousie University predicting that if we continue to harvest and consume fish at our current rate and with our current practices then by 2046 the ocean will be empty of fish!

This study disturbed me in many ways; one, I plan to still be alive forty years from now, but more importantly, I felt helpless in being able to positively impact this situation in anyway. As a result, it made my Friday to read an article in E-Magazine which said that we, as consumers, can help to alleviate this problem by making our fish purchases more wisely!

The problem was, I expect like most folks, I really have no idea what would be a 'good seafood choice' and a 'bad seafood choice'. Images of me standing in the seafood aisle paralyzed from indecision raced through by brain.

Problem solved!

Check out this site: Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch for a great, one page, printable guide on which seafood to buy and why. This guide provides clear and simple information what are the best to worst choices when buying seafood. Unfortunately, it is US focused, so the Canadians in the crowd will have to use our imagination a bit.

For example, Halibut from the Pacific Ocean is a 'Best Choice'; Halibut from the Atlantic Ocean is listed as 'Avoid'. Frankly, I don't know why this is, but I do know that this type of information is readily available on the packaging and most restaurant menus thereby allowing me to make a choice that I feel good about.

I would highly recommend you print off a copy of this guide to take with you on your next trip to the grocery store or dinner outing.

Please note though, there are some 'common fish' such as Sole that for some reason are not on the guide. On the Monterey site there is a search tool that will quickly pull up this information and it might be worthwhile to jot down on the back of the guide the options for those types of seafood you commonly consume, but are not included.

And Now For Something Completely Different!

[Undated Solar Plant in Spain]

I tip my hat to Spain for the planned changes to their building code mandating that new residential and commercial buildings be equipped with solar panels.

I am further impressed that although the new code will not be coming into effect until March 2007, the energy saving element was implemented on September 29th!

Under this new legislation new homes will have to be equipped with solar panels to provide between 30% - 70% of their hot water depending on where the building is located and on its expected water usage.

New commercial buildings, such as shopping centres and hospitals now must be equipped with photovoltaic panels to generate a portion of their electricity.

According to a joint statement from the Environment and Housing Ministries, it is expected that "the new standards will bring energy savings of 30% - 40% for each building and a reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from energy consumption of 40% - 55%".

Until now Spain's building standards have dated from the 1970's and have done little to encourage energy efficiency. According to Environment Minister Cristina Narbona, this new code is an effort to "...make up the time we have lost". As such, in addition to the solar panel component, this new code will also enforce the use of better insulation, improve the maintenance of heating and cooling systems and increase the use of natural light.

It is nice to see that rather then throw their arms up and say we are 'too far behind', Spain is taking real action to correct their past mistakes and make the world a better place for all.

Sorry, that was not very nice of me.

In hindsight I have realized that I might have inadvertently tormented some of you by suggesting you choose earth friendly 'stuff' but provide no assistance on where to find it. My apologies.

For those of you in the Greater Toronto Area you might want to check out this nifty little organization just stumbled upon called Green Enterprise Toronto.

There is a wonderful directory of 'green' companies in the GTA. Considering this is a relatively young organization, the site might be worth book marking to check for new additions as it grows in popularity

Another good directory in the GTA are the Green Pages of Red Toronto

For those south of the border Co Op America has a very robust 'Green Pages' with companies and products for just about everyone. Thanks to Nick's comment to an earlier post reminding me of them.

Please note, many of these companies have yet to make their products readily available in Canada so those of us north of the border might have a little bit more hunting to do.

These are the resources that come to my mind immediately, if you know of others, please let me know. Alternatively, if there is something you having trouble finding drop me a note and I will send the hounds out looking for it!

But Sometimes You Have to get 'Stuff'

Okay, I admit it, during this 'season of giving' there are times and circumstances that you just have to 'get stuff'. For these situations perhaps the best course of action is to take just a second or so to think about the options and which 'stuff' is the kindest to the earth.

Seeking out this type of stuff might take a little bit more imagination and work, but not only will it feel better to give it, but in my opinion this extra effort makes the gift more meaningful. As an added bonus, it could also expose both yourself and the recipient to new products and ideas.

Couple of things to look out for:

-buy local whenever possible. This could be locally grown produce or perhaps supporting a local artisan

-fair trade is better then 'unfair trade'. Keep an eye open for those products that are produced by people who are paid a fair wage.

-when possible, choose organic produce. Not only is this produce grown without adding chemicals to the soil, but by purchasing the product you are encouraging and supporting a fledgling agricultural sector

-look for products made from recycled materials. I recently saw a folding fruit basket made from used chopsticks!

-look for products made from renewable or sustainable resources. For example, just about anything 'bamboo' is good. Bamboo grows quickly and is easily replenished.

-with jewellery there is now a whole trend to materials harvested in a sustainable fashion.

- for clothing and similar items, consider things made with organic cotton or hemp.

-if purchasing wine or alcohol, take a look around. You might be pleasantly surprised at the range of options such as - local, organic or a portion of sales supporting a not for profit organization.

The good news is that increasingly these types of products are available in the mainstream. The bad news is that the craziness of the holiday season has just begun!

Stuff it!

Unless you have the good fortune to live under a rock, you have probably noticed the increased advertising for the holiday season. It is amazing how many different merchants claim to have "the perfect gift for fill in the blank"! If holiday shopping was that easy then I probably would enjoy it more!

I recently caught a snippet of a television interview with David Suzuki who commented that one of the causes of our poor environmental situation is our excessive consumerism and never ending craving for "stuff". I chuckled when just before the inevitable commercial break Suzuki looked straight into the camera and said "NO MORE STUFF".

With this in mind, I would encourage you to think of some "non-stuff" gifts to consider this holiday.

For example, how about tickets to a play or other event. It does not even have to be an organized event, it could just be an afternoon skating or a dinner out somewhere. How about a mind expanding outing such as spending the afternoon at an art gallery or museum. I would love it if someone would kidnap me in the spring/early summer and force me to take the time to visit some of the wonderful greenhouses in the Toronto area....hint...hint.

For some, perhaps the greatest gift we can give is our time.

As an added bonus, these presents would be pretty easy to wrap!

With this said, there are some neat and green gift ideas out there that in the next few weeks I will endeavour to provide more information on. If you have any ideas, please put a comment or send me an email [commonsensegreen@rogers.com] if you have any ideas!

Good Idea From "The Other Side of the Pond"

I have heard laments from some [you know who you are] about the poor state of the environmental movement in Britain. In light of this, I am doubly pleased to inform you of this little gem of British ingenuity.

Earlier this year, a British horticultural company, John Baarda Ltd, built a huge greenhouse next door to the Terra Nitrogen fertilizer plant which was spewing out carbon dioxide [CO2], the main evil ingredient of greenhouse gas emissions. However, rather then the plant continuing to release the CO2 into the atmosphere, it was redirected into the greenhouse that was full of baby tomato plants.

The reason why this is such a good idea is because the two main elements of photosynthesis, the biochemical process by which plants grow, is CO2 and light. So long as the plants get sufficient water and minerals, raising the CO2 levels is a wonderful way to increase plant growth. It is projected that in the near future, this redirected CO2 will shelter and nourish over 300,000 tomato plants!

As an added bonus, waste steam from the plant is being used to heat these greenhouses that are located in the rather chilly Teesside region of Britain's northeast.

While the projected reduction of 11,000 tonnes in annual CO2 emissions is relatively small in contrast to the billions of tonnes produced by human activity worldwide, it does have the added benefit of providing fresh, locally grown, produce year round. Furthermore, these greenhouses have already yielded their first harvest only six months after the ground was broken! In contrast, the greenhouse-gas reductions backed by the Canadian federal government have yet to yield any fruit after several years!

City Dwellers Meet Tree Dwellers

According to a recent news article, a family of Red Tailed Hawks have taken up residence atop the west wing of Queen's Park legislative buildings.

For those of you not familiar with Toronto, Queen's Park is a relatively large, well treed green space in the heart of Toronto which is the location of the provincial legislative buildings, as well as the traditional home to seemingly dozens of squirrels and pigeons. That was of course until the Hawk Family moved in. Some might lament that the hawks have impacted only the squirrels and pigeons, not the politicians [so far...]

While the squirrels and pigeons might be complaining about how their once safe neighbourhood has now turned dangerous, these new residents, with their astounding air shows, appear to be bringing city and nature closer together. At the very least, these hawks are helping to make people realize and appreciate that even in the man made urban environment, nature still exists.

Unlike most of the things that happen at Queen's Park, there is no politics surrounding the hawk family. They are there, and the squirrels and pigeons increasingly are not, purely because of the laws of nature. For good or bad, these laws of nature, which have existed since time began, are beyond legislative reach.

The best part is that we city dwellers, who at times seem so removed from nature, are now taking the time to at least pause and appreciate the fantastic natural world that surrounds us, once we stop to notice.

Buy Local. Do Local.

The benefits of buying locally grown produce [or any product for that matter] is pretty well known and acknowledged as a good easy way to be environmentally friendly. However, I would also like to put out there that "doing local" is also a great way not only to be kind to the earth but also strenghten your neighbourhood and community.

Here is what I am thinking - rather than going downtown for dinner why not try that "little restaurant around the corner". Not only might you uncover a gem within walking distance, but by supporting the local businesses you will also be making your own community more vibrant and interesting, as well as potentially save money on gas and parking!

In a similar vein, start looking and supporting the activities and resources that are in your community. If you are anything like me, once you actually start looking around you will be amazed at the vast number of activities and resources in your community. There are green spaces, historical landmarks, special festivals and a multitude of community groups! The way the we can show that we appreciate these things and want them to thrive is by supporting them through attendance and participation.

By frequenting local businesses and going to the local events, I think this will strengthen the fabric of the neighbourhood and thereby makes it a better place for everyone to live. Kinda like in the 'good old days' when you knew your neighbours!

Sustainable Condo Exhibit - who knew!

One of the unexpected perks of this blog is that it has motivated me to read the newspaper more often. It is amazing the things I find when I make time to do more then just read the headlines!

For example, for those of you in the Greater Toronto area, you might want to check out the Sustainable Condo Exhibit on display at CBC Headquarters [250 Front St] from Nov 2nd - 14th.

Created three years ago by the Vancouver based not for profit organization EcoSmart Foundation, this 1000 sq ft travelling suite is made entirely of environmentally friendly materials as demonstration that it is possible to build houses and condos that are both reasonably priced, as well as, having a minimum impact on the environment.

For those of you who cannot make it, or would like more information, I would encourage you to spend sometime on the Sustainable Condo Site . It has a wealth of information about the program and how "human comfort and sustainability can be achieved by combining smart, innovative design with state-of-the-art green building technologies". Furthermore, all of the products are affordable and available from local suppliers and manufacturers.