Shira's Articles
Are Oil Companies Going Green?
Greenwashing is an art form in the petroleum industry. They do it so convincingly, that overall consumer perception of oil companies has actually improved over 20% in recent years. Let’s compare two giants to see how well their message stacks up to their records. more »
Third-Party Verification Systems
To be sure you’re getting a green deal, research products beforehand or look for reputable third-party certification logos. For a guide to the most comprehensive third-party assessors, read on... more »
Malevolent Monitors Meet The Eco-Revolution
Monitors are the worst e-waste offenders, but the new LG Flatron boasts a screen of a different color (ahem, green). more »
The Industry Standard: Holding Computer Manufacturers Accountable For E-Waste
E-waste is a huge global problem. Electronics, when disposed of improperly, pose serious health risks and pollute the environment. Without serious fiscal and legal consequences, electronics companies may be slow to improve.
The good news is some powerful initiatives are already making a difference: more »
Love a Book, Save a Tree, Adopt-A-Library
Keeping books in circulation is a great way to cut down on paper waste. Some charities let you take the good deed even farther by sending your old books to schools, prisons, reservations, and developing nations. more »
What's The New It Eco-Car?
A list of some of the coolest new hybrids, electric and fuel cell vehicles currently in production or about to hit the market more »
Shira has written 4 reviews
Absolutely Vile
This stuff not only tastes horrible, it's packed with ingredients that scare me. I tried it for the first time last week, when I was out late with friends and my energy was waning. I was told most people like the Mixed Berry flavor, so that's the one I picked. After I read the label and saw the ingredients: Taurine, Caffeine, Phenylalanine...I took a tiny sip, made a face, and then chucked the bottle. No, wait. I mean I recycled the bottle!
But let's talk about Phenylalanine for a sec. Wikipedia says, "Phenylalanine uses the same active transport channel as tryptophan to cross the blood-brain barrier, and, in large quantities, interferes with the production of serotonin."
Pregnant women are advised to stay away from Phenylalanine and Individuals with the genetic disorder PKU are unable to metabolize Phenylalanine -- and must abstain.
For the record, www.5hourenergy.com claims,"If you never heard of PKU, don’t sweat it. Your doctor figured it out for you years ago." Hmm. This sounds a bit glossy (and condescending).
Anyway, I think I'll stick with delicious coffee, which hardly has any carbs or calories if you drink it black.
keywords: energy, caffeine, shot, sweeteners, phenylalanine
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Paperless Books Are Here
I'm not ready to give up REAL books anytime soon, but I love this idea and would definitely consider using it for travel or commuting. New releases can be ordered for about $10 so you don't have to buy the hardcover and schlep it all over.
If you keep it with you, you can buy a book on the spot when you get a recommendation, which is great because I always write a title down and lose it immediately. Here's some product highlights:
High-resolution screen that looks and reads like real paper.
no computer, no cables, no syncing.
Wireless connectivity enables you to shop the Kindle Store directly from the Kindle
Buy a book and get it wirelessly in less than one minute.
Over 150,000 books available
This thing costs almost four hundo so it better not break! And I do hope they won't re-release every 6 months like Apple....
keywords: kindle, books, reading, paperless, amazon, gadget
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Energy Saving For The People
I wish there were more public or government-funded programs like Energy Star, designed to make our planet healthier for everyone. It’s encouraging to see that Energy Star is driving pledges through utility companies such as PG&E and SRP.
I sometimes check out our national progress right on the Energy Star home page. The website is helpful, with an awesome interactive section just for kids.
I just watched the video by EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson and I have to admit he’s got that Mr. Roger’s vibe. Kind of expected him to take off his shoe and toss it in the air. Minus one star for lack of cool-factor and because we still have a long way to go! Make labeling mandatory and refuse to import or export NON energy-efficient appliances and products. Then you'll get the fifth star!
keywords: energy, light bulbs, appliances, labeling, government, US, energy star, utilities, washer, dryer
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Easy On Baby's Delicate Skin
I bought some of these for a camping trip and had some left over. My neighbor, a new mother, shrieked with joy when I offered them to her. Her baby girl is allergic to every other kind of wipe. I hear that shopping trips can be tough with a little one, so stocking up is a great idea.
keywords: baby wipe, 7th generation, sensitive skin
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