Today Is America Recycles Day

A project of Keep America Beautiful, America Recycles Day is the nationally recognized day dedicated to the promotion of recycling in the U.S. Since 1997, Americans have celebrated America Recycles Day on Novovember 15. Learn more about the program and how to participate.

The Green Revolution: Where Fitness Meets Renewable Energy

The Green Revolution retrofits Spin bikes to generate electricity that feeds back into a club's power system, reducing the club's reliance on the grid and reducing the carbon footprint of the club. The Green Revolution is a suburban Philadelphia company. It is also a start-up.

The Green Revolution has been submitted to the GE Ecoimgaination Challenge. If the Challenge generates enough interest, GE may invest in some of these companies. Winning the Ecoimagination Challenge could secure more funding for the Green Revolution and help them continue retrofitting Spin bikes to make the world a cooler place.
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Want to see more videos of The Green Revolution? Here's a starter and there are more on Youtube!

Rejoice: Recycle All Plastics Curbside Now!

Officially you can stop peering at the underside of your plastics now. Starting August 1, the city opened curbside recycling to all plastics, from old standby #1 PETE to the new amalgamated #7. No longer do you need to organize special collections or to feel guilt and shame when you purchase yogurt. Chuck it all into your mixed stream recycle bin and get on with living. (PS: always reduce what you use where possible, recycle next).

A Toxic Blow Out for Your Hair?

What's the latest service at the salons? A Brazilian blow out uses leave-in conditioner and a blow dryer to straighten your hair. Allegedly the results last longer and are *ahem* more permanent. This is achieved by using formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Yes, the same preservative that soaked the frogs you dissected in high school...applied to your head.

The cheaper less toxic solution? Break out your own organic conditioner--any type will do, including the traditional kind that you typically rinse out. Apply a layer, plug in your hair dryer and dry your hair without removing the conditioner. Gently comb while you blow out your hair and you'll end up with soft, straight hair.

For more information about toxicity in beauty products, consult The Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database. Always remember there is no federal agency that regulates the cosmetics industry.

Household Hazardous Waste Drop Off This Saturday!

Two day countdown 'til you can dump your hazardous waste without creating three-eyed fish! This Saturday, June 26, is the next household hazardous waste collection. Simply take your hazardous waste (list of materials accepted) to Domino Lane and Umbria Street between 9 AM and 3 PM.

Unsure if you have anything to contribute? You do. Common household items like batteries, paint, antifreeze, pesticides, household cleaners, & moth balls do not belong in the trash. Bring them to Household Hazardous Waste and save a planet!

Can't make it this time? The next collection date is July 22 so mark your calendars.