By Norman Patry Forty percent of all urban travel occurs within two miles of where people live, and 90% of those trips are taken by car. Cycling is a great alternative for short trips, reducing emissions and getting exercise. Knowing how to change a flat tire can increase your confidence as a cyclist and help…
DetailsLooking for the best way to get to your destination by bike? Two great web resources make that easier for you. A couple of years ago, Google Maps added bike directions as a beta option on their directions page. According to Google, the tool enables riders to find the most bike friendly routes that maximize…
DetailsHow does driving my car affect the air I breathe? Motor vehicle exhaust from cars, vans and SUVs is a major source of pollution. Despite improvements in emissions control systems, air pollution from cars remains a public health problem due to the number of vehicles on the road and the amount we drive. Emissions testing…
DetailsPharmaceuticals that have been flushed down the toilet are showing up in our water supplies at alarming rates, impacting our fish and wildlife, and in some cases even ending up in the public water supply. See www.smarxtdisposal.net for take-back programs in your area.
There is room for being green in all areas of life—even at that time of the month. Most major brands of tampons and feminine hygiene pads use a chlorine bleaching process to whiten their products. This results in products that contain dioxin and rayon, which are linked to serious health issues. A common misconception is…
DetailsHave you ever wondered exactly how long your running or walking route is? Wish you could map it, share it with others, get suggested routes from others in your area? Check out www.mapmyrun.com, www.mapmyride.com and www.mapmywalk.com for all this and more.
Most commercial energy drinks combine salt, refined sugar, caffeine, and artificial flavoring and dyes to give you a quick burst of energy—then leave you high and dry when you crash an hour later. If you’d like to hydrate in a healthy way and avoid high-fructose corn syrup and caffeine packaged in plastic, give this recipe…
DetailsBy guest columnist Carey Kish There’s nothing like getting outside for a good hike to get some exercise, enjoy the fresh air and unwind a little amid the natural beauty of the Maine coast. Thanks to the thoughtful conservation efforts of many public and private agencies and dedicated individuals, there are many protected lands along…
DetailsBy guest columnist Alina Blakesley Reflexology is an ancient healing art that strengthens the body’s immune system. The reflexology practitioner uses thumb and finger pressure to stimulate specific reflex points on the feet. Some practitioners include hands, ears and face. The entire body can be mapped on the feet. There are points connected energetically to…
DetailsIf you’re concerned about fluctuating energy prices and want to make your home more comfortable and energy efficient, here are some resources to help you finance the improvements. PACE Loans One obstacle to making energy efficiency improvements is determining how to pay for them. Efficiency Maine offers a financing program that enables homeowners to borrow…
Details