THE NATURAL LINK: Tips for Sustainable Living, Commentary by Michelle Stobart, Liz Rhodes, Amanda Sharrai and guests, recipes, news and much more. Updated monthly (or so we hope).

 

Still having trouble deciding what is the best way to spend what limited money you have on making your lifestyle more environmentally friendly. Well, here are some easy ways to make some changes without breaking your banking or feeling like you have to go overboard. While we all want solar panels, wind turbines and the rest, it isn't always financially feasible. Take a look at things you can do to make your inner environment and outer environment a tad bit more sustainable.
 


THE DIRTY DOZEN.

taken from the Environmental Working Group

 

 

Whether you are on a budget and need to prioritize your organic purchases, or you would simply like to know which type of produce has the highest pesticide residues—and which do not—the following guide from the Environmental Working Group will help.

12 Most Contaminated Foods

* Peaches
* Apples
* Sweet Bell Peppers
* Celery
* Nectarines
* Strawberries
* Cherries
* Pears
* Grapes (Imported)
* Spinach
* Lettuce
* Potatoes

12 Least Contaminated

* Onions
* Avocado
* Sweet Corn (Frozen)
* Pineapples
* Mango
* Asparagus
* Sweet Peas (Frozen)
* Kiwi Fruit
* Bananas
* Cabbage
* Broccoli
* Papaya
   

 

For more information on Fair Trade, Worst Corporate Criminals, Body Care Toxins and Things You Should Never Buy Again, visit www.coopamerica.org
   
 


 

5 things you should always by green:

1. Paint: Look for - low or, ideally no-VOC paint. You can get this at Lowes, brand - Olympic Premium - always ask to make sure it is no VOC paint.

2. Paper: Look for - paper produces with a high post-consumer recycled content. In Athens, Staples has a 100% recycled copy/print paper.

3. Light bulbs: Look for compact fluorescents. You can find them nearly everywhere now, even the dollar stores!

4. Appliances: Look for appiances with Energy Star labeling.

5. Fruits and vegetables: Look for organic, local, in-season produce. The Athens Farmer's Market is a great place for this. Also, check the Village Bakery's Undercover Market.