We often think of air pollution as being an outside problem. But in fact, indoor air (where people spend most of their time) can be more polluted than the air outside. Radon, lead, mold, carbon monoxide, chemicals, and pests are just some of the things found indoors that may impact your health and potentially damage…
Renewable energy options for Maine homeowners By Stephanie Cheney There has never been a better time for home owners to invest in renewable energy. Generous financial incentives and technological advances offer many choices for Maine homeowners looking to save money, own their power, reduce carbon emissions and stabilize energy costs into the future. Efficiency Maine,…
By Tim King When first time home buyer Tyler Kidder first inquired about a charming 100-year-old bungalow located just outside Portland, Maine, she recalls being a bit nervous about what she might be getting into. However, as a professional in the environmental sustainability field, Tyler was undaunted and drawn to what the “just right” sized…
By Heather Chandler We asked industry leaders to share their recommendations for products that Green & Healthy Maine Homes readers should know about this year. Here are six of their top choices. Beachstone Recycled Concrete Products Why we like it 100% of materials are sourced in Maine and all products are manufactured in Maine Allagash…
Small Scale Homesteading Tastes Just Right By Anna Hewitt Homesteading has historically been considered an act of self reliance typical of rural areas with abundant land, but small scale homesteaders in Maine and across the country are finding that they can grow, raise, and produce food wherever they live. Spurred by a desire to be…
Most farmers’ markets in Maine operate from May to October, although a growing number of winter markets are giving us access to locally grown foods direct from the producer year-round. Markets provide an opportunity to meet the farmers, mingle with your neighbors, and select from the freshest local foods available. This list is current as…
Maine’s local farms have become go-to destinations for families seeking a variety of recreational and educational activities throughout the year. Spring offers opportunities to learn how sap is collected and processed, or partake in a pancake breakfast topped with some of New England’s finest maple syrup. In summer, farms offer a variety of activities from…
By Molly Gallagher Burk Here in Maine, we are lucky to be surrounded by some of the most sustainable building materials around — trees. Wood is non-toxic, strong, and renewable when it’s well managed. And if it’s sourced locally from Maine lumber companies, it uses less fossil fuel and supports the state economy. For your…
How much time do you spend in your home on an average day? Is it eight hours? 10 hours? More? Would you like your home to be as comfortable and energy efficient as possible? Then it makes sense to assess just how much energy you use—or waste—each day in powering, heating, and cooling your home.…
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a national non-profit dedicated to using public information and education efforts to protect public health and the environment. Each year, EWG analyzes the test results of pesticide residue on the most commonly available fruits and vegetables to determine which are the most and least contaminated. Almost all of the…