Buy green power
PG&E (joinclimatesmart.com, 800-743-5000) The unique ClimateSmart program funds conservation and protection projects that capture carbon emissions, instead of funding renewable energy programs. The average cost is $5 per month.

Alameda Power (alamedamp.com, 510-748-3900) sources 85% of its energy from renewables, but customers can contribute to the Clean Future Fund for 1 cent/kWh, or an average $3.75 per month. Fund contributions go towards pursuing new renewable resources. More...

Scrub the tub Mix baking soda with water for an abrasive scrubbing paste, or substitute castile soap such as Dr. Bronner’s in place of water for extra power. To disinfect the bathroom, spray with hydrogen peroxide and rinse with water.

Claim the drain Pour baking soda in the drain, add 1 cup white vinegar, and watch the volcano, just like in grade school. Flush with hot water and repeat if necessary.

All hands on the pans Mix white vinegar with enough salt to form a paste, and watch the grease slip away. Add 1 tsp lemon juice for scent and extra power. More...

In our 2010 edition we inaccurately reported how mattresses are recycled in the East Bay area. The Salvation Army does accept mattresses in good condition for recycling; however, Goodwill (eastbaygoodwill.org) does NOT accept mattresses. Mattresses are also accepted at the Berkeley Transfer Station for $10. For pick up of bulky waste, including mattresses, appointments can be scheduled in Oakland (510-613-8710) and Berkeley (510-981-7270).

We at EcoMetro Guide regret the error printed in our 2010 edition. More...

Buy organic
Conventionally grown cotton is responsible for as much as 10% of pesticide use in the world and up to 25% of insecticide use annually, according to Grist. The chemicals can impact workers and leach into the groundwater. Because the United States produces more cotton than all countries except China, much of this is on our soil.

Next, ask about the processing method for cotton, wool, and other fabrics. Look for those that use natural dyes and avoid chlorine bleaching. Organic Consumers estimates that 1/3lb of chemicals are used in the production of a cotton T-shirt, so buying secondhand comes second to buying a product that avoids the conventional cycle.
 
Image: CreativeCommons/Cosmic Kitty More...

Have you ever wondered what your neighborhood is doing to reduce its environmental impact? How about using a scavenger hunt to find out? We were surprised to find a home with solar panels that we'd never noticed right around the corner, but couldn't uncover a single rain barrel. Think you can photograph everything on this list? More...

People around the world will unite for the planet on June 5th for World Environment Day 2009, for a strong call for environmental action just six months before the crucial United Nations climate change talks in Copenhagen.

World Environment Day is truly a People's Day: it is the chance for everyone, young and old, with their community or with close friends, to show that they care for the planet. Visit the website so you can learn what is happening in our country and around the world. You may register your activities so others can learn what you are doing to protect the environment and reduce Global Warming. Simple actions can have large impacts and now is the time to focus on positive changes – at home, work, school and the entire community.

June 5, 2009
Worldwide Activities
http://www.unep.org More...

Are you ready for more sun and more fun in the great outdoors? So are we. To launch into summer, we're sending our June newsletter soon with free printable coupons for outdoor recreation and reminders of all the great deals in our book.

If you aren't signed up yet, enter your email in the box at upper right. We only send newsletters monthly.

Here's a sampling to get you interested. This Tizzi bathing suit by Kelly B is 65% bamboo and 25% organic cotton (with 8% spandex), and USA made. Order online ($130) from Nimli.

Image via Nimli. More...

We're promoting outdoor recreation--running, hiking, biking, swimming, camping...hang gliding, you name it--for all of June. Submit your fun photos to show others in the community what you're up to. Winners will be chosen frequently throughout the month to receive a free book.

You can submit other photos of green living at any time.

Berkeley and Oakland Sustainable City on Flickr

Please note: To meet our criteria, the outdoor recreation must be non-motorized.

Image: Flickr/Creative Commons More...