“Reduce: For the past 6 years I’ve been reducing the amount of plastic bags in our landfills by shopping with fabric grocery bags. If I forget them in the car, I ask the grocer to put my cart aside and I run and grab them (they’re only 50 feet away! no biggie!); at malls I reduce shopping bags by asking subsequent stores to place their merchandise in my initial bag; I do all my shopping on one day to reduce emissions; we keep our A/C and heat as low as possible and just put on or take off layers to regulate our temperature; recently I’ve learned my hubby limits himself to just a few squares of toilet paper per bathroom pit stop!

Reuse: I’ve always been a fan of reconstituting items. As an artist, I will repurpose objects and make them into new things (clothing into a purse, curtains into a canvas, wine corks into a trivet); our wedding day was even green! Our e-vites/RSVP were virtual & I went to antique stores to purchase the centerpieces (candelabra’s) and have used them to decorate our home since then. My wedding dress will be re-worn by a friend and then I’m having it turned into a quilt!

Recycle: I began recycling in 4th grade after I completed a school project on ozone layer depletion and greenhouse gases. It impacted me greatly. I thought I wouldn’t live to see my 18th birthday because of pollution! Thankfully I am still here, and our earth is here too! But that made a big impact on how I live my life. My husband and I thankfully now live in a town/city that encourages living green! Plano, TX accepts all plastics, papers, glass, and metal and they collect them at our doorstep biweekly! However, before that, I lived in Germany (where they enforced recycling) and in Indiana where I would have to take separate recyclables myself and then transport them in my car to the local recycling plant. “

We are so thankful for all the submissions we received and loved hearing how so many of you out there are making your own environmental impact. We would also like to thank Homeology for their generous product donation to our lucky winner. To learn more about the product the Komar’s won please visit www.mygc.com/Lamonica.
Each of us can do a little something to extend the life of our planet! Something simple can help in a huge way so start reducing, reusing and recycling in your life.

3 years ago, World Wildlife Fund (WWF) created Earth Hour to bring climate change awareness on a global level. Their message sent strong waves to everyone as many iconic landmarks, government buildings, offices and homes have become strong participants in Earth Hour.

Earth Hour was created to accomplish one very simple and easy task, have participants turn off their electricity for one hour to show their support for making the future or our planet a brighter one. This year Earth Hour falls on March 27, 2010 at 8:30 p.m. local time and already has received support from 656 cities, towns and municipalities in 80 countries across every continent.

“Earth Hour is inspiring millions of people all around the world to join together and show their concern for the future of our planet,” said Leslie Aun, WWF’s vice president for public relations and the managing director for Earth Hour U.S. 2010. “Here in the U.S., Earth Hour sends a message that Americans are ready to turn out the lights on pollution and climate change and make the switch to energy independence and efficiency.”

If huge iconic landmarks such as the Las Vegas strip, Mount Rushmore, Grand Palace in Bangkok, London Eye and Table Mountain in Cape Town can go into total darkness for one complete hour than so can we. I encourage every single So-Cal Solar Inc. reader to spread the message about Earth Hour and start turning the lights out by the neighborhoods.

The 8 mile is quickly becoming solar mile. Detroit, once a booming town, developed and supported by the auto industry is now switching sides into the photovoltaic (PV) solar industry. This new change will make Detroit a clean energy source and also help create new jobs. The impact will directly help decrease their unemployment rate and boost their economy.

Applied Energy Technologies (AET), a Detroit based company with over 25 years experience in the auto manufacturing industry has made the switch completely by developing a full line of versatile solar PV mounting structures and components. AET took notice of the declining market for auto related products and crafted a new line of solar mounting components while utilizing Detroit’s dedicated work force and huge network of suppliers.

Applied Energy Technologies, a huge contributor in the solar PV manufacturing industry is steadily focused on creating new jobs in the solar industry, strengthening the United States economy and keeping the environment clean.

To learn more about Applied Energy Technologies (AET) please visit http://ati-energy.com/

We are expanding and proud of it! So-Cal Solar Inc. is announcing that we have opened up another office located in Huntington Beach, CA, in Orange County. We are excited to become a part of Orange County and help homeowners and businesses reduce their carbon footprint by becoming energy independent.

So-Cal Solar Inc. specializes in solar electric systems for residential and commercial needs. We have been in business for over a decade and have remained at the forefront of this rapidly growing industry.

With our expansion of the new office we are committed to bringing solar awareness throughout Orange County and Southern California. Together we can make Orange County a huge contributor to California’s renewable energy goal set forth by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Please feel free to contact us for a free solar evaluation (http://www.socalsolarinc.com/free-solar-evaluation/).

Below you will find some helpful tips on how to start reducing your carbon footprint:

1. Install a solar electric system
2. Water your grass only in the morning
3. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
4. Car pool
5. Use recycled products
6. Turn off lights and electrical devices when not in use
7. Buy local products
8. Use a coffee mug instead of disposal cups
9. Plant a tree or bush
10. Use cloth towels instead of paper towels

Bringing environmental awareness to our readers is a top priority for So-Cal Solar Inc. That is why we have decided to run a contest and hear how our readers have changed their lifestyles to help the environment. The “How Green Are You” contest will be from February 22-March 17, 2010. Below you will find the rules to enter:

1. Email your story to info@socalsolarinc.com
2. All ages are welcome to enter
3. Have your story submitted by March 16, 2010 6pm
4. Include pictures if available
5. No purchase necessary to enter
6. No restrictions on prize winner
7. Winner will be selected by So-Cal Solar Inc. staff via e-mail
8. No limitations on entries per household

The winner of the contest will be featured on our website along with his or her story. We want the story to be heard to start changing the mindset of those that do not contribute in a positive light to the environment. Along with being featured on our website the winner will also be receiving Homeology’s All Purpose Cleaner. Homeology is a green cleaning product line created by Gold Canyon. Homeology has carefully been created to ensure the products are non-toxic, natural and safe for the environment, pets, kids and your health. To learn more about Homeology please visit www.mygc.com/Lamonica .

So-Cal Solar Inc.
2010 West Ave K
Lancaster, CA 93536

If you are thinking about buying green cleaning products for the first time but are unsure of which products to buy, you might want to consider buying Gold Canyon’s green cleaning products called Homeology. The products are made with natural ingredients and have received great reviews from magazines such as Better Homes and Garden and Everyday with Rachael Ray. The ingredients that are used in Gold Canyon Homeology products are purified water, essential oils, and coconut based cleaners.

The type of products that are available in Gold Canyon’s Homeology green cleaning products line are Rosemary Mint All Purpose Cleaner, Mandarin Eucalyptus Clove Cleanse, Lavender Eucalyptus Sweet Orange Floor Cleaner, and Peppermint Eucalyptus Glass Cleaner.

Below is a list of essentials that are used in each product:

Rosemary Mint All Purpose Cleaner uses peppermint, spearmint, rosemary, and eucalyptus essential oils.

Mandarin Eucalyptus Clove Cleanse uses lemon, cinnamon, clove, mandarin, and eucalyptus essential oils.

Lavender Eucalyptus Sweet Orange Floor Cleaner uses sweet orange, eucalyptus, and lavender essential oils.

Peppermint Eucalyptus Glass Cleaner uses lemon, rosemary, eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint essential oils.

If you are unfamiliar with the Mandarin Eucalyptus Cleanse, below explains where the natural cleaner can be used:

This product can be used as a natural scrub for appliances, tile, sink, countertop, bathtub, and much more. The Mandarin Eucalyptus Clove Cleanse can also be used as a deodorizer for a trash can, diaper pail, and other items in the home.

If you are interested in buying any of Gold Canyon’s Homeology products you can do so by going to the following website: www.mygc.com/Lamonica

To read more about Homeology products please take the time to visit the following blog:
http://fabulousgccandles.blogspot.com/

Dazzling the Tree:
All trees need beautiful ornaments so why not make them instead of purchasing new ones. Hand made ornaments are a hit this year because they can be crafted from everyday materials found around the home. Grab some glitter, glue and sprinkle away. This is a great way to get the family involved and turn this event into a tradition for years to come. Next, make sure your tree lights are LED lights. This will ensure the extra lights won’t take a damaging effect on your already high electric bill.

Cards:
Every year our holiday card list seems to get longer and longer and also very expensive. Instead of wasting your time, money and paper why not send an e-card. Most e-card services are free and you are able to customize your own holiday messages with photos.

Wrapping the Gifts:
Although we all enjoy opening those shinny little boxes under the tree, the moment only last a few seconds. So make sure you use holiday newspaper ads, recycled paper, or reusable bags.

The Perfect Gift:
This year find the holiday spirit by giving non-traditional gifts to friends and family that they will enjoy after the holidays. Gifts such as a free housecleaning, babysitting or even a nice outdoor picnic once the holiday bustle slows down. I know we all wish we could have a little extra help in our lives so a thoughtful gesture such as the ideas above will make hearts melt. Plus your pocketbook will thank you later. If you insist on purchasing a gift get a present that will be enjoyable and good for the environment.
Such gifts as:

Solar outdoor lights
Bamboo cutting boards
Eco golf tees
Organic baby clothes
E-readers
Solar electric system

Going green on the holidays is not as hard as we may think. I welcome others to post their green tips for the holidays. Together we can make this holiday cheer last a lifetime.

Happy Holidays from the So-Cal Solar family!

The first major consideration is the number of guests you are inviting. It is great to have a big wedding but it is expensive as well. A practical move would be to choose special friends, family, and relatives to invite for your wedding. This will cut down your expenses and also reduce the carbon footprint because fewer guest will mean less travel!

Try to make use of local ingredients and hire a local caterer who has enough knowledge about how to produce those sumptuous dishes you want but from local produce. You are not only helping the environment but you are also patronizing the local growers by buying their produce. These foods are relatively healthier compared to those from other places that may have preservatives in them.

Why not wear a vintage bridal gown instead of a new one that may contain many synthetic materials. Or try choosing a gown that is made from organic cotton or hemp.  The wedding dress is one the most important elements of your wedding so you will be proud, knowing that what you are wearing not only looks great but is also good for the environment.

Instead of importing out of season flowers from abroad, you can make use of the local grown blooms. Some couples even use flowers from their own garden!  Another tip to consider is sharing flowers with another couple who has the same wedding date as yours. After the celebration, you can also send your flowers to some nursing homes instead of throwing it away.

For your wedding favors, you can give away flower seeds which will also serve as a lasting memento for your wedding as your guests can enjoy for a long time the blooms that will result from these seeds.

Perhaps the most significant impact on the environment is you choice of wedding venue. Try to have your wedding outdoors and during the day.  Make sure you ask the venue important questions like whether they participate in recycling or conserve water.  If you really want to have the biggest impact on your green wedding day choose a venue that utilizes solar electric.  This would mean your wedding day would run completely on clean energy and help aid in the fight against global warming.

If you want to have an eco-friendly wedding that is sincere and genuine, you can check out Green Wedding. There you can find 101 tips on how to have the ultimate green wedding of your choice and a free green wedding e-book to help you get started planning your green wedding now.