GoGreen Sets Sail: Full Steam Ahead in 2010!
           January 21 , 2010
           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

As we at GoGreenWebDirectory.com reflect on 2009's wake of achievements, we're steering fast ahead on 2010.

In the past year, GoGreen has expanded reach into Metro Boston, North Shore, and Cape Cod, developed strategic partnerships with organizations like Edible Southshore, acquired trademarks for GoGreen and our motto actions green louder than words, streamlined directory design and functionality, and added exciting new content including Living Green articles, Local Heroes section, blog with Member Blog feed, and a comprehensive list of Massachusetts state resources for the GoGreen community. In 2009, GoGreen experienced a 30% month-over-month growth rate with visitors to our site. Traffic has grown steadily, and we are approaching the 50,000-hits-per-month mark. This month's acquisition of GoGreen intellectual property rights is important for continued growth and exposure.

"We applied for the GoGreen trademark when we first started, and we are enthusiastic about the value it brings to the directory and our members", said GoGreen President and Founder Paula Keif.

We also spread the word about the directory far and wide with "Seed the Future" recycled cards that offer site visitors a free tree to plant in support of global REforestation; marketed our members, fostering business in the Bay State's growing green economy; and attended numerous green events. Through all of these efforts, GoGreen members reached more consumers, received discounts to green expos, and benefited from business-to-business networking.

In a measure of actions green louder than words, Keif was also named to the Greenschools Board of Directors and is currently assisting green initiatives for Bay State schools. "Improved environmental decision making within schools will teach children about the importance of creating healthy environments and recycling. GoGreen is a vehicle to get the word out and help support this important organization", she said.

Energized by a year of achievements, GoGreen is already on its way to high points in the new year. We are weaving Living Green content into the directory, developing media presence, and planning for a GoGreen Heroes Photo Album, which will show all the wonderful green actions by individuals and businesses within Massachusetts. We are expanding reach into the Central and Western regions; developing a non-profit presence, including community resources; and continuing to create strategic partnerships.

The tasks ahead for the new green economy are exciting. By engaging in green marketplace conversations and developing policy, GoGreen is helping members to succeed through marketing, strategic partnerships, direct access to local green consumers, and news. And most importantly, the GoGreen community is creating a greener Massachusetts through access to local green products and services and green living information and resources.

To Summarize Copenhagen
           December 21 , 2009
           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

There is no global agreement, but negotiations resulted in accord with US, China, India, Brazil, and South Africa. Other countries are invited to sign.

Once the December United Nations (UN) Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen (COP15) was over, the Internet was awash with weary and cynicism. Members of various Linkedin groups counseled each other back and forth and cries were read on Facebook. Later that week, 350.org sent letters to its followers calling global leadership a disappointment and citizens for more action. The Massachusetts Climate Action Network wrote to its list serve saying the conference was a “bust,” and while New England is considered a climate leader, MCAN noted our region is the 7th largest carbon emitter in the world. Greenpeace, and many others, simply said COP15 failed.

The problem with the conference for most climate change advocates is that no specific targets were made, there is no implementation plan for meeting reductions, and funding for the meantime, is in theory only.

For me, COP15 started with learning that public belief in global warming has cooled. According to the Pew Research Center, there was a 15% drop in believers in the year and a half leading up to the conference. That both surprised and concerned me.

And though USA Today reported in December that a majority of Americans support a global treaty to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions, people not yet alarmed about global warming are beginning to lose interest in the conversation. Some find it boring, and the concepts, including the purpose of going green, elusive.

Within the two weeks that was COP15, I realized that despite all of the roller coaster-like ups and downs—and while there is more to say, do, and inspire—in the end, we have something we haven’t had in a decade. That means we have somewhere to continue to go. And what did we really have before COP15? For carbon, the sky was the limit then.

Highlights of the Accord

• The accord recognizes climate change, and directs all signatories to set and comply with 2020 emissions targets, which will be submitted to the UN secretariat January 31.
• Developing countries will be paid to cut their emissions, thereby preventing deforestation. Starting this year, developed countries, like the U.S., will give up to $30 billion through the Copenhagen Green Fund through 2012, with a goal of $100 billion by 2020.
• There is to be monitoring of undeveloped nations, and powered by Google Earth and JAXA, we can all watch. New 2009-acquired data layers are available.
• There will be carbon trading, bureuocracy, and next year’s UN climate conference in Mexico City.

Highlights of COP15 Major Plays

• 350.org's blog http://www.350.org/about/blogs/climate-shame-climate-hope reports on the gloomy end of the conference.
• Sec. of State Clinton offers $100 billion in what is seen as a game changing move in China/U.S. climate negotiations.
• The U.S holds bilateral talks with China, India, Brazil, and South Africa. Sec. of State Hillary Clinton meets with all 30 island nations represented at the conference.
• The U. S.-United Arab Emirates agree to peaceful nuclear cooperation.
• 350.org calls on followers to bombard U.S. Sec. of State Hillary Clinton's mailbox. It was full, and I couldn’t leave her the message.
• 350.org reports a leaked conference document recognizing 350 ppm in handwriting.
• The European Union (EU) puts up 2.4 billion euros for developing nations.
• China and the U.S. argue oversight.
• Africa walks out of COP15, talks suspend, but a blueprint appeared.
• EU parliamentarians tell Big Oil to cease pillaging Canadian tar sands as “an outrageous example of irresponsibility.”
• China calls on U.S. to lead, according to Australian news affiliate exclusive.
• The Guardian lists which countries are important to COP15.
• South Africa Pledges 42% reduction by 2025 at COP15.
• Public belief in global warming cools, according to polls.
• Participants declare COP15 to be historic opportunity.
• Conference begins with high hopes. Until recently, China and India had refused to debate commitment on reducing man-made emissions.

Additional Resources

• U.S. Department of State’s Official COP15 Web site, with press briefings
• The United Nations official COP15 Web site, with Webcasts
• The UN Climate Development Mechanism, the global market board that decides renewable energy credits

Making the Climate Message Tangible
          December 1 , 2009
          From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

The Massachusetts Climate Action Network (MCAN) conference that brought 350.org’s Bill MCKibben and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Gina McCarthy to Massachusetts a few weeks ago was an enlightening experience.

There was a lot of energy and enthusiasm and praising Massachusetts for the hard work on climate change education and action. The conference itself provided education in the areas of cap and trade versus cap and dividend, grassroots carbon efficiency, tools for engaging local energy committees and activism, Green Communities Act, factory farming’s effect on global warming, remediation and adaptation planning, and so much more.

But it was clear that a lot more work needs to be done at Copenhagen next week, and after. Bill McKibben and others were disappointed by the day’s news that action may not happen until the next climate conference in Mexico City. Thankfully news since has been more positive with most countries offering emissions reduction targets. We all eagerly anticipate U.S. action in Copenhagen.

MCAN’s Executive Director Rob Garrity began the full-day conference at Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s with a crucial point, asking “Why aren’t they getting it?” The “they” are those that have not yet joined the choir. “Are they not getting it because we’re not giving them something to believe in and think about?” he asked.

The notion gave me pause for thought.

Some folks are surely getting it as Gina McCarthy, Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Air and Radiation, was certainly positive enough in outlining just how far this nation has come in the area of global warming since the Obama Administration took the helm.

In April, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of Massachusetts in “Massachusetts v. EPA,” agreeing that greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) do endanger public health and should be regulated by EPA. Rule work is already underway, and through complimentary measures, U.S. Department of Transportation café standards for emissions reductions are in review by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget. A mandatory GHG reporting rule is also in final! By this time next year the U.S. will have data on emissions and according to McCarthy, reporting will “drive companies to look at efficiency.”

This and other government work she discussed is news for 2009, and good news at that.

But certainly there are some folks in our communities—and there are their carbon copies as far as position repeated across the country—that just don’t get it. Even in Massachusetts, the home of federal GHG lawsuits, Congressman Markey, and the Green Communities Act, there are folks who want to do business the old way. Some of these folks run our communities and set us back. They keep their cards close to the vest and do not learn from their progressive neighbors, and they may refuse to take advantage of the great benefits designed for those that step up on climate action.

McCarthy’s advice is to make the action message tangible. “We want the relationships that transit-oriented communities can give us…Get them to see it, feel it, taste it,” she said.

I like this advice and I hope over the next few weeks with the energy surrounding Copenhagen, cap and trade, Green Communities Act funding, and new GHG laws, you all speak to others about what’s in store as far as change.

I hope you will talk about the positives of cleaner air, cheaper energy, and the benefits of a green economy with your neighbors, friends, and family. Because you never know if they just didn’t get it before they talked to you.  

For making changes at home and for more information on Massachusetts initiatives, such as the Green Communities Act, be sure to check out GoGreen’s Resources page. For climate change resources, discussion points, and action in Massachusetts, visit MCAN.

Seeding the Future, One Card at a Time

To ensure businesses, products, and services involved with GoGreenWebDirectory.com (GoGreen) are taking acceptable measures, we ask for documentation on their sustainability practices and goals and their environmental impact.

So in marketing GoGreen, we looked for green opportunities in the marketplace and found a way to encourage environmental action and fight global warming with Seed-Our-Future, an online promotion.

Small “Seed the Future” cards, printed on recycled paper with soy-based ink, have a unique PIN code, which recipients redeem to plant a tree in a global project fighting deforestation. GoGreen’s new visitors can download a branded certificate to mark the planting of their trees.

OUR PHILOSOPHY: Actions Green Louder Than Words®

We believe that taking action and making the simplest change in ones daily behavior can make a difference. That’s why we Seed-Our-Future when marketing GoGreen.



A Solid Green Directory

A Message from GoGreen Web Directory

The latest data shows that green marketing is unchecked, consumers seek guidance in green purchasing, and there is a lack of standards and overarching certification. The result is that consumers are forced to rely on manufacturer and service provider green marketing statements and claims.

In the interest of speed to market, any green directory can seek to populate its listings without performing research on green claims, by relying on others to investigate, or in simply accepting affiliation claims to more than 300 green labels.

At GoGreen, we believe the integrity of GoGreen Web Directory data is crucial because it is the core of our business model. Growing a meaningful Massachusetts green business directory, region by region, is our mission.

While other green directories may claim tens-of-thousands of listings, GoGreen’s business model includes hands-on interaction with each listed company on GoGreenWebDirectory.com and a vetting process through which we engage members in detailing their sustainability, green, and environmental practices. The result of GoGreen’s thoughtful system of checks and balances is a directory of Solid Green Listings.

It’s just one of the ways GoGreen is Actions Green Louder than Words®.

GoGreen is also following U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Green Guides revision activities and current corporate enforcement actions, as well as class action suits brought against green labels, and will discuss how such decisions affect the marketplace, and GoGreen Web Directory, as these stories unfold.

For more information about government oversight of green marketing, read the FTC’s Sorting Out ‘Green’ Advertising Claims. For more information about hundreds of green labels, review Ecolabelling.org’s updated list.

 Archives

Individuals Can Take Climate Action on October 24th           October 20, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

We know that extreme changes in global atmospheric composition and ocean pH lead to ecological uncertainty. If we reach tipping points we will change the planet as we know it, and the shift will not be gentle. Atmospheric and oceanic changes mean severe storms, ever-lowering ocean pH means mass deaths of fish species due to collapsing colonies of plankton that cannot live in an acid environment, and many lands lost the world over—submerged as sea level rises. The obvious results are death, environmental refugees, and loss of major global food supplies. Not to mention the trickledown effects of unstable economies and resource-driven war. Why do I remind of all these grim details? Well, because as individuals we can throw aside hopelessness and do something. The organization 350.org has called every citizen of Earth to action on October 24th. 350.org’s mission is that through awareness and international agreement we can collectively return to safe atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations and can reverse global warming trends. Earth’s atmosphere is currently at 390 parts per million (ppm) and counting. Just a few years ago, it was at 382 ppm. The urgency to return to 350ppm—the number National Air and Space Administration Scientist Jim Hansen discovered as the limit of a healthy atmosphere—is growing more alarming with each passing month. When and Why: On October 24th, Earth’s citizens will take action at organized events the world over. Organizers will share pictures and stories with 350.org, which will compile data for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December. Copenhagen has become the quest for the environmental grail. It’s the opportunity to resurrect international global warming treaty, and many fear that this meeting is our last hope. Some believe we have a window of just three years to put global environmental devastation in reverse, and that within 10 years, we will experience the shift to ecological instability. Coordinated international demand for climate change could prove persuasive with UN world leaders. So I hope you will join me on the 24th in taking action. How: To participate in an event, go to 350.org and search your zip code.

Upgrading Laundry Appliances           September 18 , 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

Buying more energy efficient appliances, such as modern clothes dryers, and using them in place of older, inefficient equipment will save money over the long-term and in the short-term will quickly lower your carbon footprint. Incorporating energy efficient appliances can also lead to tax breaks and qualify you for some local and state rebate programs. If your dryer dates from the late 1980s or early 1990s, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Technical folks in the know recommend replacing dryers that were made before 1994, when current minimum energy conservation standards for residential clothes dryers were established and made Federal law. By the time your dryer reaches year eight, Consumer Reports, in its Repair or Replace it? Guide, advises replacement over repair. In making laundry purchase decisions, if you are shopping for a stack, set, or ventless combo unit, look for the Energy Star label because it represents a high degree of research into energy conservation. When you walk into many area stores, you'll see the Energy Star sticker on numerous washer/dryer sets. Energy Star washers minimize water use and their higher spin speeds remove more water and reduce drying time. While no stand-alone dryer on its own is currently rated Energy Star-certified, because dryers of a given size use about the same amount of energy, the U.S. Department of Energy is studying clothes dryers (and air conditioners) and is in process of analyzing markets, equipment efficiencies, and the impact of standards on environmental emissions. The Canadian Office of Energy Efficiency currently rates dryers, but at present time the ratings variation represents a small range. Senate Bill 598, The Appliance Standards Improvement Act of 2009, would amend the Energy Policy and Conservation Act to addresses improving Energy Star testing standards and industry compliance for appliance efficiency and could lead to increased testing acumen and more Energy Star-labeled products, if passed.

The Dog Days of Summer           August 26, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

The dog days of summer have brought extreme heat and vegetables worth waiting for—including some organic tomatoes that managed to dodge the regional blight! But along with the dog days comes temptation—an urge to be in air conditioning (A/C). However, A/C has its emissions, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs). When VOCs meet nitrogen oxide emissions (such as those coming from power and industrial plants) in the presence of sunlight, ground-level ozone is formed, resulting in hazardous air quality warnings. The elderly, those with asthma and lung diseases, and children are advised to stay indoors to avoid shortness of breath, coughing, and scratchy throats. Ozone can damage lung tissues and linings. While air conditioners (A/Cs) may be lifesavers for the elderly during heat waves, and when maintained, can actually lower indoor VOC levels, they help spark a vicious cycle. Along with cars, A/Cs and other household appliances contribute to heat island effect — an urban phenomenon where temperatures are higher in cities than surrounding areas. While it may be completely unavoidable to swear off all A/C, it is possible to be extra vigilant about energy use overall in order to minimize heat byproduct being generated from our homes. Avoid drying clothes and hang them out on a clothesline instead. Dryers alone account for 10% of household energy needs, according to Project Laundry List. Turn off lights, A/Cs, computers, televisions, and fans in any unused rooms. If you have central air, turn up the thermostat a couple of degrees to decrease your system’s energy consumption. Limit A/C at night to essential rooms only, such as bedrooms. As we approach autumn, temperatures will begin to fall at night, so we can throw open our windows instead. Driving locally, cool off with open car windows. When driving consistently over 40 MPH, close windows to reduce drag that increases gas consumption and use the A/C.

Massachusetts Ocean Management & National Water Policy           July 9, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

Despite all the drudgery that a rainy June has caused, July is proving to be an exciting time in Massachusetts and nationally in the world of water—sea water and water resources that is. The state has established a Draft Ocean Management Plan that will govern Bay State waters from the shoreline up to three miles out to sea, an effort that is leading the nation in coastal water resources policy. Ocean management planning is needed to fairly govern private projects that could encroach upon public coastal resources. Commercial fishing, wind farm development, sewage projects, and all manner of power projects need uniform guidance for oversight and approval so that natural resources—like fisheries and fish habitats—and public uses—like surfcasting and sailing—can be protected. The comment period has begun and runs through August. On the national level, the end of the month will mark Congressional conversation around a National Water Policy—something I am thrilled to be a part of. Advocates of a National Water Policy focus on water rights issues in regions that experience water shortages. On Earth, the blue planet, only 1% of all of our water is freshwater and forever must be shared by all creatures, inhabitants, cities, and states. But in places like the naturally arid Southwest, uneven allocations of Colorado River water (a Compact that dates back to the 19th century), and a high draw on groundwater resources have left many rural and suburban communities as well as Native American reservations literally in the dust. This situation is echoed throughout the world—from Atlanta, Georgia, to the Yangtze region of China, to the Goa River in India—where cities carelessly consume vast amounts and outlaying areas struggle to get the most out of every H2O drop. But even in Massachusetts, we can appreciate that some communities (like the town of Danvers) experience water bans even in the height of the rain that we’ve had so much of recently. Just as in the Southwest, water rich states like ours feel the impact of the following reality: Water is not always available when and where populations need it! That’s why it is an essential component of green living that we become water-wise—installing low-flow showerheads, watering gardens sparingly early or late in the day, incorporating drought-tolerant plants in our yards instead of miles of grass, and tightening leaks throughout the house—especially those notoriously greedy toilet leaks. And a National Water Policy will guide states and regions in better allocating water resources and in improving land planning, making development sustainable and water resources conscious. It will engage planners in considering regional needs and incorporating the most advanced technological solutions—such as solar-powered desalination and water reuse with ultrafiltration—that maximize use and fair allocation of the precious freshwater supplies that we have. Read the Massachusetts Ocean Management & National Water Policy.

Why Not a 70% Green Energy Future?         June 16, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

After spending the day at Salem’s Renewable Energy Fair, touring the amazing geothermal installation at Salem’s Joseph Story house, and discussing solar installations throughout the North Shore, it’s clear that green energy is not only possible, but it’s wonderful! So many consumers are blown away by the successes of their installations and are beaming with pride that they have slashed their homes energy bills and carbon footprints, or even eliminated them completely. And the green energy companies are hungry for more projects! The vibe that comes from those that have jumped on the green energy bandwagon is infectious, and I hope that ISO New England, the Massachusetts Legislature, and power generators in this state can work together now to improve our grid and green energy goals. It’s sad that ISO New England’s 2008 Annual Report predicts a limit of 30% on New England’s green energy future.  Technologically, I know that Massachusetts can do better. Clearly, I am not alone. It’s going to take prioritizing, will, and financial support to increase green energy goals. Read more.

Real Wind for Massachusetts         June 12, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

What a whirlwind it’s been getting GoGreen Web Directory articles, newsletters, this blog, and other content going! This is an exciting time with much planned for the remainder of 2009. In addition, taking on new projects is always a welcome challenge. This week’s Green Quick Fixes, my weekly green living column www.msgreenquickfixes.com, addresses the necessity to transition to a smarter grid that can supply actual greener energy to Bay State homes and businesses. Ms. Green Quick Fixes—always looking for the smartest, quickest way to reduce carbon footprints—has cast out a query to develop a funding mechanism to raise revenues specifically for upgrading the grid now. As in pronto. There is much design work, planning, and equipment that is needed in order to carry new transmission lines that bring proposed wind energy directly to our homes. The Earth cannot wait and Massachusetts, always a natural leader, must step up and prepare the nest! Without funding set aside to get green energy plugged in, and legislative priorities focused on hurdle-clearing simply to erect windmills and establish other green energy sources, actual delivery of green energy to Massachusetts seems a far off dream. The renewable energy credits that we buy directly or through green energy programs are great, but I can’t stop thinking that we could do better because the need is urgent. The world just cannot wait and I am looking for partners that can help me establish a funding source now. Contact me at afox@msgreenquickfixes.com if you can add some momentum that makes this dream a reality! read more.

GoGreen Looks Back on 2008, And Set Their Sites on 2009         May, 2009           From the desk of Ms. Green Quick Fixes

In the spring of last year Go Green Web Directory (GoGreen)) President Paula Keif began shopping for resources to construct and furnish an addition to her home. She was surprised that the Internet lacked a directory of green resources in her area, and it gave her a great idea: A local green business directory could become a statewide resource for consumers looking to build, shop, eat, and live green. It could also become an online community. By May, GoGreen was born. In June, Paula and her team, started building the website and interviewing businesses south of Boston. It’s important that those listed and advertise on the directory meet green standards for their type of business. Circle Furniture, Zip Car, Planet Tran, Hair Consultants Plus, Village Green Landscape, Callahan Construction, Kennedy Carpets, Certified Solar, Alternate Energy, Davis Mechanical and Merry Maids were of the first to get on board with GoGreen, and began advertising on the site. By October, GoGreen launched Boston South directory. Their work caught the notice of local press. Zip Car introduced GoGreen to their 40,000+ Massachusetts-based member community in its newsletter. Circle Furniture invited GoGreen to participate in their Ellie Fundraiser, and they passed out plantable book marks and Girls Gone Green T-shirts that were a smash hit. The Patriot Ledger noticed their hard work in November and published a feature. And then in January 2009, because Actions Green Louder than Words, WCVB Ch. 5 featured Paula recycling a Christmas tree on its Going Green Segment! GoGreen's personal actions this past winter also include participating in a local energy challenge by insulating an attic and procuring solar panels, using energy efficient light bulbs, and installing programmable thermostats. But GoGreen is just getting started. Goals for 2009 include: Launching new areas of the directory, including Metro Boston, Cape Cod and The Islands, and Boston North Developing independent editorial content that will share knowledge with GoGreen visitors Creating an online community for site visitors committed to going green Moving ahead with personal achievements like installing rain barrel systems and improving energy usage at home and at work So, spread the word that Actions Green Louder than Words. As GoGreen continues to grow, the directory lists all types of environmentally friendly businesses, products and services—from hair salons and consignment shops to cleaning services, farms, auto detailers, and more. read more.

 Welcome to the GoGreen Member Blog.

The intent of this blog is to show a different side of our green business members other than what one may see in their expanded directory listings. Each member’s blog piece will provide a personal, creative, fun Q&A looking into them as individuals as well as some of the driving forces behind their green businesses.

Happy reading!
Paula Keif, President & Founder

 GoGreen Member Blogs

Pro Energy Consultants
Jon Mitton,
Energy Auditor and Owner

GoGreen:  How did your business evolve, or become green?

Jon:  “Pro Energy Consultants business model was started 15 years ago in Cleveland helping home owners maximize the efficiency of their homes in the most efficient ways possible with a focus on customer comfort issues. Recently, Pro Energy Consultants also began to focus on helping home owners understand how to be more efficient in their living habits.”

GoGreen:  How do you see your business taking part in the GoGreen Web Directory community, the place where consumers from all over Massachusetts connect with green businesses to explore resources and discussions that help them green their lives?

Jon: “GoGreen Web Directory is an amazing resource for people who are actively looking to enhance their knowledge of living ‘green’ and Pro Energy Consultants is in a unique position to be able to help with some of the more important questions in regards to homes, how they function, and how to make them more efficient without necessarily spending a lot of money. This is done scientifically with proper testing of the home. We don’t guess.

GoGreen:  What is your most important environmental goal and how do you feel your business can contribute?

Jon: “American homes use 25% of the world’s energy for heating, cooling, and electricity. We feel it is very important to bring that number down to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and greenhouse gasses. Pro Energy Consultants can not only help teach people how to make their homes more efficient but also explore opportunities to change habits that will lead to a more efficient lifestyle. The challenge has been that people always believe that they must make sacrifices to live efficiently and that is not the case, education and proper choices can have a great effect without sacrificing quality of life.”

GoGreen: When you consider the phrase “Planet Earth,” which element or adjective of the following do you associate?

Jon: “Challenge.”

Greener Everyday Consulting
Rachel White,
Owner and Principal

GoGreen:  How did your business evolve, or become green?

Rachel: “Greener Every Day evolved out of my personal quest to create a more sustainable lifestyle for my family. After training and working for several years as a researcher and teacher, I left the field of education to pursue my passion for green living. I founded Greener Every Day to share with others the knowledge I have gained from greening my life and home. Whether I am consulting with a private client, leading a workshop, or writing a blog post, I often use my own experience as a model. Thus, I always strive to walk the talk, and to advance my green journey as I help others advance theirs.”

GoGreen: How do you see your business taking part in the GoGreen Web Directory community, the place where consumers from all over Massachusetts connect with green businesses to explore resources and discussions that help them green their lives?

Rachel: “As a member of the GoGreen Web Community we look forward to educating Massachusetts residents about opportunities to introduce sustainable practices and products into their lives and to helping implement those opportunities that meet their needs, priorities, and budgets. We also look forward to learning from other members of the community in order to enhance our services.”

GoGreen: What is your most important environmental goal and how do you feel your business can contribute?

Rachel: “Our goal is to help individuals make sustainable lifestyle choices that are lasting, meaningful to them, and make a measurable dent in their environmental impact. Whatever the particular project we are working on, we strive to help our clients and the public conserve natural resources, save money, reduce waste, and improve their quality of life and well-being.”

GoGreen: When you consider the phrase “PlanetEarth,” which element or adjective of the following do you associate?

Rachel: “I am drawn to ‘Challenge’ because we face enormous challenges right now of working to preserve and protect the planet for future generations.”

GreenBridge Architects
Juli MacDonald,
AIA, LEED AP, Owner and Principal

GoGreen:  How did your business evolve, or become green?

Juli:  “GreenBridge was created in 2007. I have always had a strong tie to socially and ecologically responsible architecture through self- education and my work in membership organizations. After 20 years in the field, I wanted to create a firm where I could fully prioritize and support these commitments by creating standards for continual education and the work itself.”

GoGreen:  How do you see your business taking part in the GoGreen Web Directory community, the place where consumers from all over Massachusetts connect with green businesses to explore resources and discussions that help them green their lives?

Juli:  “We are always working to educate ourselves on a wide range of issues involving sustainable, or green, design. I write a blog that I use to share what I’m currently interested in or learning about. I hope this will be interesting to the greater GoGreen Web Directory community.”

GoGreen:  What is your most important environmental goal and how do you feel your business can contribute?

Juli:  “Our most important environmental goal is to bring sustainable systems and products into architectural projects, in a way that is most appropriate for each project and for the client’s needs. With our continuous education and partnership-building, we also strive to make each project better than the last.”

GoGreen:  When you consider the phrase “Planet Earth,” which element or adjective of the following do you associate?

Juli:  “Life.”

 GoGreen Member Blog

Delicious Living Nutrition
Nicole Cormier,
RD, LDN, owner, registered dietitian, nutrition consultant

GoGreen:   How did your business evolve, or become green?

Nicole:   “Delicious Living Nutrition evolved organically after having the strong desire to improve individual’s quality of life through nutrition. The goal is to heal and protect the body from chronic illnesses that may be related to inadequate nutrition, such as, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, gastrointestinal disorders, etc. I enjoy educating clients about eating for energy through nutritional coaching with a variety of support strategies including follow-up sessions, phone calls, e-mails, my blog, Twitter, Skype and Facebook. I utilize the internet and use recycled paper for handouts, business cards, and marketing materials.”

GoGreen:   How do you see your business taking part in the GoGreen Web Directory community, the place where consumers from all over Massachusetts connect with green businesses to explore resources and discussions that help them green their lives?

Nicole:   “I hope to be a valuable resource for questions the community may have in regards to nutrition, wellness, foods, organic, local farmers, diets, etc. I would like to support individuals to continuing self growth at every stage of their life while appreciating each aspect of our environment. I would also like to help restaurants, wellness centers, and corporations create menus that will increase individuals’ energy levels.”

GoGreen:   What is your most important environmental goal and how do you feel your business can contribute?

Nicole:   “My most important environmental goal is to utilize every opportunity to stay active and connect with our environment. However, in order for that to happen, we need to care for our environments. My company can contribute by supporting people to take care of themselves, their bodies, and relationships with food and energy. If people understand how to care for themselves, they will be more likely to care for their environments.

GoGreen:  ” When you consider the phrase “Planet Earth,” which element or adjective of the following do you associate?

Nicole:  “Life.”

 GoGreen Favorite Blogs

1. Chez Sven B&B
    www.chezsven.blogspot.com