The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says levels of indoor air pollution can be between two and five times higher — and occasionally as much as 100 times higher — than outdoor air. Indoor air pollution can be such a problem that the EPA ranks poor indoor air quality among the top five environmental risks to public health. These statistics are particularly eye-opening, given that we spend upwards of 90 percent of our day indoors.

There are a number of common misconceptions about indoor air quality. For instance, many consumers believe that because their homes are clean, their indoor air is clean, too. The truth is that airborne particulates such as dust, smoke, mold spores and pet dander can be widespread in even the cleanest homes. And as many consumers are sealing their homes more tightly to conserve energy, they’re reducing natural circulation and sealing in those airborne pollutants.

Another common misconception is that healthy adults aren’t susceptible to the effects of poor indoor air quality. While poor indoor air poses particular risks for children, the elderly and those affected by asthma and allergies, everyone’s health can suffer by breathing polluted air. Effects from exposure to poor indoor air may include irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, headaches, dizziness and fatigue.

Think about it: Many people drink purified water and use hand sanitizers, but they aren’t doing anything to help purify the air that they are breathing because they don’t believe anything can be done to help improve indoor air quality problems.

The truth is that effective, affordable portable air purifiers, such as Honeywell air purifiers, eliminate up to 95 to 99.97 percent of microscopic airborne pollutants (0.3 microns or larger) that pass through their filters. Some air purifiers are even effective at fighting certain viruses and other germs. Portable air purifiers also help circulate the air in a room, usually several times per hour, to reduce airborne allergens and stale air. Consumers should use an air purifier in the rooms where they spend the most time, such as the bedroom and living areas.

Honeywell air purifier products, manufactured by Kaz, Inc., are available at major retailers including Target, Wal-Mart, Sears, Amazon.com and The Home Depot. To find out which type of air purifier is best for your needs, visit http://www.honeywellcleanair.com.

Traditionally, consumers seeking high-efficiency laundry turn to front-loading machines. In fact, the survey uncovered that more than a third of consumers agreed that top-load washers use more energy than front load machines — a common misconception in today’s marketplace.

“Historically, front-load laundry pairs have led the industry in capacity and efficiency,” said Mary Zeitler, home economist, Whirlpool Institute of Fabric Science, “but nearly three-quarters of American households rely on top-load laundry configurations. Now, as more families look to save on energy, water and utility costs, it is important to understand that they can enjoy the best of both worlds.”

High-efficiency washing machines use up to 50 percent less energy than traditional models by washing clothes in a smaller pool of water. With less water in the cycle, the machine needs less energy to heat the clothes. Additionally, HE machines spin clothes at a faster rate and extract more water, thus reducing the amount of time required in the dryer.

“Now that high efficiency is available in both configurations, it is important that consumers understand the difference between a high-efficiency machine and other models,” said Zeitler. “Since an HE machine has such a tremendous impact on household energy and water bills, I recommend consumers seriously consider these models when replacing older machines. The savings add up fast.”

With proper maintenance on their HE machines, consumers can ensure peak efficiency and energy savings for years to come. It is best to use only HE detergent with HE washers to prevent oversudsing and build-up of residue. Futhermore, it is best to run full loads, but not overload the washer, to make sure clothes come out clean.

Whirlpool brand now offers two of the most eco-conscious top-load washing machines on the market — the Cabrio HE washer and an updated “Classic” conventional washer, in addition to the popular front-loading Duet model. All three models are ENERGY STAR qualified and use at least 50 percent less water and energy than conventional machines.

For more information on high-efficiency and HE laundry, consumers can log onto http://www.whirlpool.com.

The truth is, the recognizable smell of a new car or fresh coat of paint actually comes from Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). The new survey, conducted by FLOR, a manufacturer and marketer of design-inspired carpet tiles, found that 91 percent of Americans are concerned about the environment, but only 10 percent say they are familiar with VOCs — and why they are unsafe.

VOCs are harmful gases released by everyday household items, including paint, carpets, cleaning supplies, aerosol sprays, air fresheners and some cosmetics. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air consistently contains 10 times the amount of VOCs as outdoor air. Given that Americans typically spend 80 to 90 percent of their time indoors, many people face prolonged exposure. The problem? VOCs can lead to asthma and other respiratory problems.

While an overwhelming majority, 91 percent, of respondents expressed concern about the environment, 61 percent reported that they throw unwanted carpet in the trash or place it on the curb for someone to take, according to the recent FLOR survey. What people fail to realize is that it can take 50 years for wool to break down in a landfill, and 250,000 years for man-made fibers, like nylon and carpet backing, to completely decay.

The FLOR survey also uncovered that a small percentage of people actually opt for some of these other disposal solutions, with only 15 percent of consumers choosing to recycle their old carpeting, and 25 percent choosing to donate it to others. But, FLOR is doing its part to offer people a more responsible alternative. Consumers can participate in the company’s environmental efforts through FLOR’s Return & Recycle Program, where old FLOR tiles can be returned to be recycled into new product. Many FLOR products contain renewable or recycled materials and meet the Carpet and Rug Institute’s (CRI) Green Label Plus standard for VOC emissions.

“FLOR has always been a believer in providing smart solutions for the home,” says Greg Colando, president, FLOR. “We want to help consumers understand the range of eco-friendly issues and products out there when it comes to renovating or updating home décor.”

For more information, visit http://www.FLOR.com.

No one knows exactly how much illegal hardwood enters the United States, but estimates range from $250 million to $375 million worth per year — much of which is used for high-end flooring.

Most illegal hardwood comes from tropical rain forests, delicate ecosystems with high biodiversity. Tropical hardwoods protect the soil — removing them prevents other plants from growing and allows rain to strip away nutrients from the soil. Studies have shown that rain forest deforestation accounts for 18 percent of greenhouse gases.

In December 2008, the U.S. government amended The Lacey Act, its oldest wildlife protection statute, to discourage illegal hardwood imports. According to the amendment, anyone involved in the import, purchase or sale of illegal wood is subject to one to five years in prison and $100,000 to $500,000 in fines per violation.

The U.S. Customs Service monitors suspicious cargo, but too much wood is imported into the U.S. to catch every illegal shipment. However, consumers can take steps to avoid the purchase of illegal hardwood. Shaw, a company that supplies easy-to-install hardwood products, provides the following tips for Americans looking to enrich their homes with gorgeous hardwood without destroying rain forests:

Look for hardwood that is made in the U.S. Choosing American-sourced wood not only supports the country’s economy, it helps to ensure that the hardwood is legally harvested from managed forests, which are a truly renewable resource.

Beware of exotic wood products. Woods like Brazilian cherry or mongoy are much more likely to have been harvested illegally than non-exotic woods.

Do your homework. Ask questions before purchasing your floor to make sure it is from a retailer that sources its hardwood products from a trustworthy, legal distributor.

Consider domestic species of hardwood. Although woods like hickory, oak, birch and maple are grown in America, advanced staining techniques allow these species to have the exotic looks many homeowners desire without the risk of purchasing illegally harvested products.

Look for eco-friendly laminate products. Shaw’s Luminiere collection mimics exotic woods like Ipe heartwood and teak, but doesn’t require any illegal harvesting. Better yet, the laminate uses 98 percent less newly harvested wood than most hardwood products and features a high-density-fiber core made from recycled wood.

For more information, visit http://www.shawfloors.com.

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME), in collaboration with IEEE-USA, developed a “National Energy Policy Goals Proclamation” outlining critical national energy priorities that the two societies would like to see implemented by Congress within the upcoming years.

Considered by many to be on the frontlines for a response to the nation’s energy challenges, the engineering industry rose to the occasion in overwhelming support of this proclamation. In total, 21 engineering societies, representing more than 1 million engineers, embraced the proclamation’s message.

One of the top messages that the proclamation pushes is for the modernization of the nation’s electric transmission grid. “The electric grid that exists in the country today has served the country well for decades, but a redesigned and re-engineered system is needed that builds on the grid that is in place and makes use of the most advanced control technology available. It must support bringing electricity generated by new sustainable, economic and environmentally acceptable technologies to load centers around the country.”

While many groups call for abandoning all nonrenewable resources, engineers know that it’s not that easy. Engineers want to find eco-friendly energy sources, like biomass, solar and wind power. The proclamation emphasizes drawing energy from a broad range of sources, including coal, petroleum, nuclear, natural gas, solar, wind, geothermal, biomass and hydroelectric power.

By creating concise, effective measures to adapt to climate change through carbon mitigation, the proclamation aims to provide a long-term commitment to energy research, development and demonstration.

ASME has many members who work in the energy sector, and during the 129-year existence of the organization, it has been a source of new ideas and knowledge. As such, ASME is a credible and trusted player in the energy industry. For more information, visit http://www.asme.org.

Seattle Housing Authority, one of the nation’s largest public housing agencies, has found a way to cut fuel consumption by 37 percent at a 120-acre redevelopment in West Seattle. Named High Point, the new pedestrian-friendly community features a mix of 1,700 low-income and market-rate properties, plus ample park space, a seniors’ village, a neighborhood center, a new medical and dental clinic and a public library.

Tom Phillips, Seattle Housing Authority’s senior development manager, says High Point has set a new standard in sustainable green building for housing authorities. “Our design team includes firms that are among the region’s leaders in sustainable development, and who share Seattle Housing’s passion for building a greener, more affordable and more livable community.”

The community features an innovative natural drainage system and a host of energy-efficient and water conservation solutions, such as a Baxi Luna combination heating and domestic hot water wall-hung boiler in rental homes.

“Baxi Luna is an elegant, all-in-one, backpack-sized boiler with tankless hot water capabilities,” says Matt Sullivan, the project manager of Mithum, a leader in reduced energy use. “It generates fuel-use savings while helping us to make the most of space limitations. It allows us to fit a stackable washer and dryer in the same closet as the combination central heating and domestic hot water boiler.”

An independent study showed that High Point homes with Baxi units recorded total fuel savings of 37 percent. The report also noted that the inclusion of conservation technology, including the Baxi hydronic heating system, makes housing even more affordable as utility rates increase and public utilities and government agencies add new financial incentives for conservation.

Seattle Housing Authority also installed its first Baxi solar water heating system at High Point this spring and expects it will generate additional fuel and cost savings. The renewable energy system is backed up by the Baxi Luna 3 Comfort combination heating and domestic hot water boiler, which is capable of accepting pre-heated water from the solar storage tank.

Visit http://www.wallhungboilers.com to learn more about proven Baxi energy-efficient, eco-friendly heating solutions.

In a recent Whirlpool Corporation survey fielded by Harris Interactive, 84 percent of consumers said that energy — not water or time — is most important to them when it comes to home appliance efficiency. Despite the significant gains in efficiency over the last 30 years, nearly 70 percent of consumers cited a kitchen appliance as the one that consumes the most energy on a day-to-day basis.

“In the past, consumers did not need to look beyond the kitchen to find the home energy hog,” said J.B. Hoyt, Director, Regulatory Affairs and State Government Relations, Whirlpool Corporation. “Even today, cooking appliances are not ENERGY STAR qualified. However, recent innovations in appliance efficiency, particularly when it comes to the refrigerator and dishwasher, can really help consumers conserve resources.”

For example, the Resource Saver Refrigerator from Whirlpool brand uses less energy than it takes to power a 60-watt light bulb, exceeding federal efficiency standards by 30 percent. Moreover, the Resource Saver Dishwasher uses one-third less water and energy than dishwashers manufactured before 2000.

“Efficient appliances like these should help consumers save on their energy bills,” said Hoyt. “They are an important first step toward achieving an ‘eco-kitchen.’ However, homeowners also need to make sure to do their part to help.”

Small lifestyle changes can help appliances run at peak efficiency and conserve energy. For example, running the dishwasher late at night can help consumers avoid peak hours, and keeping the refrigerator stocked and at the recommended temperature can save energy as well.

Similarly, consumers can reduce energy when preparing a meal. Placing multiple foods in the oven can efficiently utilize heat, and selecting an appropriately sized pan for each burner can increase the efficiency of the range.

Cooking appliances also feature innovations to help conserve energy. The Whirlpool range with Energy Save mode conserves electricity when the oven is not in use, while the over-the-range Velos microwave can cook up to 47 percent faster than a traditional thermal bake oven when in SpeedCook mode.

To learn more about energy-efficient kitchen appliances, consumers can visit http://www.whirlpool.com.

According to a recent Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA) and Staples Foundation for Learning (SFFL) survey of more than 1,200 youths, ages 11-13, 92 percent of tweens said they are “very concerned” or “somewhat concerned” about the environment. Nearly half recycle or reuse their food and drink containers, and 40 percent would watch less television and play fewer video games to save energy.

One example, Florida’s Edgewater Boys & Girls Club Torch Club, was named a winner of the “Be Great. Be Green” National Project Award for the Club’s efforts to educate members about environmental stewardship and sustainability of resources, while also motivating neighbors to take action. Awarded by BGCA and SFFL, the national award is designed to raise awareness about environmental issues and motivate youth, educators and parents to take action.

“We all know how important it is to protect our country’s natural resources so they can be enjoyed for generations to come,” said Camille Winbush, an actress best known for her roles on “The Secret Life of An American Teenager” and “The Bernie Mac Show,” and a judge of the “Be Great, Be Green” award. “When youth are educated about environmental issues, they become involved in their communities and are able to make big changes.”

Along with SFFL, BGCA wants parents, educators and children to take a tiny green step by being on the lookout for green office and school supplies throughout the year:

• Recycled pencils. The good old No. 2 isn’t going anywhere anytime soon, but now you can find recycled pencils. Made from some of the billions of scrapped tires in stockpiles today, the RENEW Recycled Tire Pencil’s casing is made from 30 percent recycled tires. With a No. 2 graphite core, the pencil also contains bio-degradable latex-free erasers.

• Eco-friendly pens. If you’re more of a pen person, be on the lookout for recycled and biodegradable versions by Pilot or Industries of the Blind.

• Re-binders. No student can get through the school year without a binder. Recycled binders from Re-Binder are not only eco-friendly, but sturdy and cheap.

For more information, visit http://www.staplesfoundation.org and http://www.bgca.org.

Each reusable grocery bag can eliminate 1,000 plastic bags over the course of its lifetime. Even better, consumers can purchase reusable grocery bags that benefit good causes. For example,
two organizations that benefit poverty-stricken families, Americans Helping Americans and Running Strong for American Indian Youth, recently started printing their logos on grocery bags containing 100 percent post-consumer recycled plastic.

So, why do so many people fail to carry reusable bags? Despite the planning that goes into creating shopping lists, it is mostly a store-time decision when deciding what they will use to carry their groceries.

For shoppers who want to get the most out of reusable bags, keep these tips in mind:

Keep some extra bags spare. Purchase several bags. Keep some in your car and in a visible location in your home. Fold lightweight bags, and keep them in your purse or a large pocket.

• Designate bags for different purposes. Label separate bags for vegetables, meat and fish. You might also want to purchase one or two insulated bags for frozen or refrigerated foods. If cold foods sweat and dampen the bags, let them air-dry on a clothesline before storing them.

• Put your reusable bag on your list. When you write out your shopping list, make a note to remember your bag.

• Think beyond the grocery store. Keep one or two bags for non-food use, and take them with you when you go to the mall or convenience store.

• If you do forget a reusable bag, purchase a new one. Hopefully, if you purchase enough new bags, you will start remembering to take them to the store. Make your money count by purchasing bags from reputable charities like Americans Helping Americans and Running Strong for American Indian Youth.

One easy way to live a more earth-conscious lifestyle is to turn brown bag lunches green this school year. By thinking green every time you pack a lunch, you can save money and take a small step forward for the environment.

Do right by your wallet and the environment with these simple tips:

Buy local foods
Look for a farmer’s market or grocery store that promotes locally grown and produced food.

Local foods are produced close to home and deliver the freshest taste. Buying local supports a more sustainable food system, since real sustainability goes beyond the methods used in food production. The closer a food source is to where you live, the less fuel it will take to get it to your table.

Tote a reusable lunch bag
Instead of using an old-school brown paper bag, invite your kids to help pick out a reusable lunch bag. This small lesson in sustainability is an easy way for kids to help the environment. Older kids won’t have to settle for a lunch box covered in cartoon characters — stylish bags are available that will satisfy even the pickiest seventh grader.

Many reusable bags are insulated to help keep lunches cool. Reusable lunch bags come in a variety of fabrics from neoprene, recycled plastics, polyester and canvas.

Try sandwich bags that are better for the environment
Feel better about using plastic sandwich bags to pack your family’s lunch with new Ziploc evolve sandwich and storage bags.

The protective, ultra-light bags are made using 25 percent less plastic than traditional sandwich bags, and manufactured using wind power – a cleaner, renewable energy source. The bags are also manufactured with less energy overall, which is a step towards reducing greenhouse gasses.

The bags, which are widely available in grocery, mass merchandise and drug stores nationwide, offer the same quality seal, freshness protection, convenience and price that you rely on to preserve lunches and leftovers.

Visit http://www.ziploc.com to learn more about Ziploc evolve bags and discover new food storage tips and ideas.

Double fruits and veggies
Make lunches extra green by packing plenty of fruits and vegetables. You will encourage a lifetime of healthy eating habits by making fruits and vegetables part of every meal, including lunch. Additionally, whole foods typically consume less energy and water compared with processed foods.

Teach your kids to eat a colorful variety of fruits and vegetables to get the most nutrients. Think beyond carrot sticks and apples and try a simple salad of red peppers, cucumbers and green beans dressed with vinegar.

- Courtesy of ARA