Computation doesn’t come naturally to me. Nor does basic physics. Yes, that’s right, I’m not a math or science person (although eons ago I did manage to successfully complete advanced calculus). But in order to do my job well, which includes tracking and analyzing household energy use to determine the impact of home performance upgrades,… continue reading ->
So you’ve decided to go green. Now what?
Our resource list contains trusted providers of goods, services and information to help you along in your green living journey. We have also created a special section called Green in Boston highlighting some of our favorite green organizations and businesses in our local community.
Rest assured that we have vetted all of the resources listed here. This is a greenwashing-free zone!
We are always looking to expand our list, so if you would like to suggest an addition please contact us. We’d be glad to consider it.
The Green Home Guide, published by the US Green Building Council, is an amazing resource for anyone undertaking a green home improvement project–whether the project is big or small, whether it’s DIY or through a contractor. I particularly like their articles, which are extremely informative and accessible.
Terrene sells sustainable building supplies at its showrooms in Newton and Braintree. Their selection of green products includes carpet, flooring, cabinetry, window treatments and paint. My experience with Terrene has only been positive: I have found their products to be extremely high quality and their green credentials to be impeccable. The staff is also extremely helpful.
Green Depot in Stoneham sells sustainable building supplies. Although their store is oriented towards contractors, I highly recommend that anyone interested in doing green home improvement check out their selection of products.
Freecycle is an excellent resource if you’re looking to reduce your waste. Freecycle, which is a grassroots, online movement, is dedicated to keeping good stuff out of landfills. Freecycle networks exist in a number of MA towns and cities. Members give and get stuff from each other for free by posting items online. Each network is moderated by a local volunteer and membership is free.
Energy Federation Incorporated is a MA-based non-profit that provides products and services to help people conserve energy and water. EFI’s online store sells energy efficient lighting, low-flow shower-heads, and other conservation-related products directly to consumers. Many products that EFI sells, like dimmable CFLs, are hard to find at retail stores.
The Boston Building Resources is a nonprofit dedicated to reusing good-quality used and surplus building materials. They accept donations of everything from used sinks and cabinetry to surplus lumber, and they resell them to the public at low prices. If you are undertaking a home improvement project, check with the resource center before you throw your old stuff away.
If you’re in the market for a new (or used car), you may want to visit the online website Fuel Economy. A joint project of the EPA and US Dept of Energy, Fuel Economy helps consumers make environmentally-informed decisions about their car purchases. One of the most helpful features of the site is a tool that scores vehicles according to environmental performance criteria (not only MPH but also annual gasoline consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, and pollution ratings). The site even allows you to do side-by-side comparisons.
