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EcoCentric: A vocabulary lesson

ecocentric

Here’s a powerful quote from the Great Law of the Iroquois I think it sums up the organic nature adopting of Green Practices. “In every deliberation, we must consider the impact on the seventh generation… even if it requires having skin as thick as the bark of a pine.”

  • Sustainability: This word is quickly becoming a part of mainstream vocabulary. Let’s keep it simple and go with this definition: Using methods, systems and materials that won’t deplete resources or harm natural cycles.
  • Green building: Many new construction projects are now including new and innovative environmentally friendly building materials and architectural designs. In addition, sustainable land must be considered. Here’s the U.S. Green Building Council’s definition: A high performing home or business that’s energy and water efficient, has good indoor air quality, uses environmentally sustainable materials and also uses the building lot or site in a sustainable manner.
  • Green products: We are becoming increasingly aware of the need to include green products in our efforts to go green. Here’s a definition I like to use: A product that is environmentally and socially responsible, along with being accountable to, and respectful of, the places and people that provide and use them.
  • Green practices: Arguably the most important aspect of going green lies in our day-to-day routines — be it at home or work. Adopting green practices is the one area each and every one of us can participate in starting today. Practices also happen to have the largest overall environmental impact.
  • Greenwashing: Greenwashing is a term that refers to the promotion of a product or service as being environmentally friendly without any basis in real fact.

— JEFF

EcoCentric: finding eco-friendly laptops

laptopcomputerThere’s a lot to like about the convenience, portability and power we get out of today’s laptop and notebook computers. With millions used worldwide, it is important to consider sustainability factors, such as their build, design and life cycle.

With this in mind there are some computers that are greener and more environmentally friendly than others. The good news is that you can now make your purchasing decision based on selecting a notebook that meets established environmental standards.

Epeat® is an organization that evaluates electronic products for their sustainability and awards products a bronze, silver or gold status. Epeat® evaluates eco-friendly laptops in the following eight categories:

  • 1. Reduction/elimination of environmentally sensitive materials
  • 2. Materials selection
  • 3. Design for end of life
  • 4. Product longevity/life cycle extension
  • 5. Energy conservation
  • 6. End of life management
  • 7. Corporate performance
  • 8. Packaging

Visit the Epeat website at www.epeat.net/PublicSearch.aspx to find notebooks that qualify.

— JEFF

Jeff Carey is the founder and owner of the Iowa Green Team, an Eastern Iowa-base company deidcated to growing Iowa’s green communities.