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REAL GREEN ARCHIVES

Featured Articles from Past Issues

Each issue, our editors choose to feature an article from the current issue of Real Green to post on this Web site. To see the entire issue of Real Green, please subscribe. If you subscribe through the Web site, membership costs as little as $20.


FROM THE FALL 2009 ISSUE

Shrink Your Impact, Offset the Rest
We give you the much-anticipated follow-up to our 2007 carbon-offset article, reporting the latest in a rapidly changing field. Read More »


FROM THE SUMMER 2009 ISSUE

Fire Your Clothes Dryer
Make this the year you reduce your energy use (and your utility bill) by air-drying your clothes as often as possible. Read More »


FROM THE SPRING 2009 ISSUE

The Money-Saving Perks of a Hybrid Car
Government incentives, perks from employers, loan discounts, insurance discounts, gas savings, and more make hybrids suprisingly affordable. Read More »


FROM THE SPRING 2009 ISSUE

Finding Used Items Online
Get what you need for free by swapping, borrowing, and bartering online. Read More »


FROM THE WINTER 2009 ISSUE

7 Fixes From the Green Economy
Bold solutions from the green economy are the antidote to the broken economy—and can repair the damage and create a world that works for all. Read More »


FROM THE WINTER 2009 ISSUE

Food that Nourishes People and the Planet
Local, organic, and Fair Trade products can keep your food dollars away from destructive agri-businesses. Read More »


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2008 ISSUE

Green and Climate-Friendly Televisions
Keep old TVs functional, find the greenest and least-toxic new ones, and learn about responsible electronics recycling. Read More »


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2008 ISSUE

Carpool for the Climate and Community
Share rides to work, school, worship, and more to cut pollution and build community. Read More »


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2008 ISSUE

Greening School Fundraisers
If your school or community group needs to raise some cash, think about selling eco-friendly goods from the greenest businesses. Read More »


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2008 ISSUE

Think Globally, Can Locally
Canning local fruits and veggies will tantalize your taste buds and reduce your carbon footprint all year round. Read More »


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2008 ISSUE

Greening Your Final Arrangements
Limit the use of natural resources and hazardous chemicals in your cemetery upkeep, and have your funeral costs go directly toward land conservation efforts. Read More »


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2008 ISSUE

Pick a Composter, Any Composter
We give you six popular options and help you determine which style is the right one for you. Read More »


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2008 ISSUE

GE Food: Precaution Advised
Conserve resources, build community, and keep no-longer-needed belongings from going to waste. Read More »


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2008 ISSUE

Finding Responsible Credit Cards
Find responsible credit cards that support community investing institutions; offset carbon emissions; and direct proceeds toward environmental protection, education, community health, the arts, and more. Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2008 ISSUE

Neighborhood Home Repair Teams
Build community with your neighbors. Trade home improvement expertise with others while saving money and resources. Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2008 ISSUE

"Clean Tech" Opportunities on the Rise
Help promote the best technologies for our future while earning money.
Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2008 ISSUE

Making Solar Affordable Now
We show you how to combine government incentives, future energy savings, net metering, an increase in home value, and more to make solar an affordable clean-energy solution for you today. Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2008 ISSUE

The Sweet Side of Fair Trade
Fair Trade white, brown, and powdered sugar is now widely available. Buy it to help protect sugar farmers and the environment. Read More »


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2008 ISSUE

Cook One Meal, Eat for a Week
Through cooperative cooking, you can save money, build community, minimize your time in the kitchen, and commit to buying greener food. We walk you through three strategies. Read More »


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2007 ISSUE

Six Ways to Green Your Alma Mater
Do donate to a school or university – whether as an alum, or as a parent or grandparent of a student?  If so, consider making that donation a vote for progress on campus on behalf of people and the planet. Read More »


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2007 ISSUE

Beyond Lead: Toxins in Toys
Recent headlines have brought lead-painted toys to the forefront, but lead's not the only toxin that raises concerns. Read More »


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2007 ISSUE

Green "Dry" Cleaning
Almost everyone has items around the house that can't be laundered in the weekly wash. Our editors took a look at your options (wet cleaning, the "greenearth" method, and more), and give you the low-down on what's lightest on the Earth. Read More »


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2007 ISSUE

Eat Less Meat, Cool the Planet
Reducing the amount of animal products in your diet can prevent tons of greenhouse gases from entering the atmosphere. Read More »


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2007 ISSUE

Is a Green Roof Right for You?
Green roofs can save on your energy costs, reduce noise pollution, and more than double the life of your existing roof.  What’s more, they reduce pollution and absorb airborne toxins and carbon dioxide. Read More »


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2007 ISSUE

The Facts About Water Filters
You may think that one water filter is as good as another, but think again. The filter you buy on impulse may not be keeping your family safe.
Read More »


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2007 ISSUE

A Beginner's Guide to Buying Stocks
We give you tips for investing in the stock market while supporting the green economy.
Read More »


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2007 ISSUE

Are Art Supplies Toxic?
We walk you through the hazards of conventional art supplies for kids, and point you toward greener, less toxic products – including a nontoxic recipe for your own natural, homemade fingerpaint. Read More »


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2007 ISSUE

The Case for Electric Bikes
Save on the expense of a second car and curb your emissions with the latest generation of "human-electric hybrid" bikes. Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2007 ISSUE

Carbon Offsets Demystefied
When you offset the carbon dioxide emissions from your air travel, automobile, or home energy use, you have a range of choices. Our editors reviewed the options and show you which are good, better, and best. Read More »


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2007 ISSUE

Build Your Own Rain Barrel
Conserve water, save money, and protect your local watershed. Read More »


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2007 ISSUE

Green Interior Design Tips
If you’re itching for a change in your home, follow our green interior design tips to create a sustainable space that rejuvenates your spirit, is healthy for your family, and is good for people and the planet. Read More »


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2006 ISSUE

Fair Trade Rice Makes Its Debut
Most of the aromatic rice Americans buy was harvested by hand from small-scale farms in Asia, where producers are often squeezed by middle merchants or sickened by pesticides. We show how Fair Trade rice can help. Read More >>


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2006 ISSUE

Buying the Best Appliances
By choosing high-efficiency appliances over conventional models, US consumers saved $12 billion on energy bills last year, and avoided greenhouse gas emissions equal to 23 million cars. You can too.
Read more >


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2006 ISSUE

The Case for Organic Cotton
Organic cotton items are fashionable, durable, and healthier for your family. Protect workers and communities by keeping thousands of tons of harmful pesticides out of the air, soil, and water.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2006 ISSUE

Ten Simple Ways to Clean Green
Make your own nontoxic cleaners, or find eco-friendly products from Green America's Green Business Network™ members.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2006 ISSUE

The Benefits of Biodiesel
Biodiesel reduces greenhouse gas emissions better than gasoline, ethanol, and conventional diesel, and can help shift your energy use to renewables.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2006 ISSUE

Try a Solar Water Heater
With a solar water heater, you'll get the hot water your household needs while saving money and energy and reducing your dependence on coal-fired power.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2006 ISSUE

Sweatshop-free Clothing
When you need new clothes, choose pieces that weren't made in sweatshops, and encourage clothing companies to protect workers.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2006 ISSUE

Climate Risk and Your Power Company
Coal-fired power companies say they don't hear from their customers about climate change concerns. It's time to let them know how you feel.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2006 ISSUE

Green Hands on Deck
We show you how to use forest-friendly and less-toxic building materials to design a deck that's easy on the Earth.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2006 ISSUE

Green Weddings (and More)
Make your wedding, anniversary party, or commitment ceremony green, for a personal celebration you and your guests won't ever forget.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2006 ISSUE

The Allergen-Free Bedroom
Improve air quality in your bedroom by combatting dust mites, mold, dander, cockroaches, and more.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2006 ISSUE

New Trend: Exchange Traded Funds
Enjoy the diversification of a mutual fund coupled with the trading flexibility of individual stock investments.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2006 ISSUE

Greener Paths for Plastics
Conventional plastics can pollute the environment and leach harmful chemicals. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.
Read more >


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2005 ISSUE

Solar Gifts that Keep Giving
These nifty gift ideas will please any gadget lover, while helping them save time and money.
Read more >


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2005 ISSUE

Safe, Sustainable Seafood
Find seafood for your family that is high in nutrients, low in toxins, and farmed or caught sustainably.
Read more >


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2005 ISSUE

Finding New Life for Your Old Clothes
We give you tips for how to put your old clothes to good use to save money, resources, and make a difference to others.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2005 ISSUE

Yes, We Have Fair Trade Bananas
Many people know there’s Fair Trade coffee, tea, and chocolate. Now, you can help get Fair Trade bananas into a supermarket near you.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2005 ISSUE

The Ugly Side of Cosmetics
Make-up and body care products have been linked to allergic reactions, birth defects, and even cancer. Here's what you need to know.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2005 ISSUE

Bond Funds: 101
Socially responsible bond funds make portfolio diversification easy.  Learn more about these investing vehicles and how they can work for you.  
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2005 ISSUE

Digging for Ethical Gems
Choose responsible diamonds and precious gems to help protect workers involved in mining and cutting and to help preserve the environment.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2005 ISSUE

Tax Credits for Cleaner Energy
Learn how to save money on installing renewable energy systems like solar panels or solar hot water heaters, and save money on your energy bills too!
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2005 ISSUE

Get What You Need Without Money
Conserve resources, build community, save money, and keep no-longer-needed belongings from going to waste.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2005 ISSUE

Gold Loses Some Glitter
The gold industry is responsible for releasing toxins and adversely affecting communities around the world. Here’s what you can do.
Read more >


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2004 ISSUE

The Best Toys for Your Tots
By being mindful about the toys you choose, you'll save money, keep toxins out of the playroom, and help workers.
Read more >


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2004 ISSUE

O, Sustainable Christmas Tree
Real or artificial? Cut or potted? If you prefer to buy green, you might be wondering which option is the most eco-friendly.
Read more >


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2004 ISSUE

Partying for Fair Trade
You can help foster living wages and fair working conditions for producers and educate others about fair trade, all while having fun with your friends and family.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2004 ISSUE

Greening Your Office
You can save energy, resources, and money by taking steps to make your workplace more environmentally friendly.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2004 ISSUE

Secrets to Yard Sale Success
Running out of room to store things you don't really need anyway? Sell it off at a blow-out yard sale.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2004 ISSUE

Eco-Computer Options
When shopping for a new computer, you can help preserve the Earth by choosing the most environmentally friendly options possible.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2004 ISSUE

Say It With Organic Flowers
Buying organic flowers protects your family, workers, and the environment, and they're easier to find than ever before.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2004 ISSUE

Least-Toxic Dentistry
Mercury fillings, dental sealants, and root canals may be linked to health problems. Here's what you need to know to stay safe.
Read more >


FROM THE NOV/DEC 2003 ISSUE

Fair Trade Chocolate: Sweet!
Child slavery is rampant in the chocolate industry. To protect children, farmers, and the environment, make your chocolate fair trade.
Read more >


FROM THE SEPT/OCT 2003 ISSUE

Native American Marketing Images
Find out how you can support Native American groups who seek to end the commercial use of their images.
Read more >


FROM THE JULY/AUGUST 2003 ISSUE

Eco-friendly Paints and Stains
When renovating a room or a piece of furniture, choose less-toxic paints or stains, and breathe clean indoor air while preserving the Earth.
Read more >


FROM THE MAY/JUNE 2003 ISSUE

Worm Composting: All-Natural Recycling
Recycle your kitchen waste into soil for your lawn, garden, or houseplants -- with the help of thousands of new friends.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2003 ISSUE

Used Books: Share the Wealth
If you want to maximize the usefulness of your favorite books, consider a donation, a swap, or just set them free.
Read more >


FROM THE JAN/FEB 2003 ISSUE

Solving the Diaper Dilemma
Find out about diapering your baby with reusable cloth diapers or disposables that are easy on the Earth.
Read more >


FROM THE OCT/NOV 2002 ISSUE

Eco-Friendly Flooring
If you need to replace your carpets or floors, choose materials that are safe for your health and the planet.
Read more >


FROM THE AUGUST/SEPT 2002 ISSUE

Organic Beer and Wine
If you consume alcoholic beverages, try organic beer or wine. They’re better for your health and the planet, and they taste good, too.
Read more >


FROM THE JUNE/JULY 2002 ISSUE

A Just Cup of Coffee
The coffee you buy has a big impact on farmworkers and the environment. Here's how to make that impact a good one.
Read more >


FROM THE MARCH/APRIL 2001 ISSUE

Are Your Candles Toxic?
We show you what's wrong with conventional candles, and point your toward less-toxic alternatives.
Read more >

 

 

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