energy
When water runs hot
About 15 to 20 percent of a typical household’s energy use comes from heating water, according to the February/ March issue of Mother Earth News. Solar water heaters are an easy way to produce renewable energy, the magazine says. Any homeowner with a sunny roof can save thousands of dollars and quickly recover his or her investment. More at motherearthnews.com.
space
Clutter-free kitchen
Arthur Tanturri of Chelsea Fine Custom Kitchens in New York says excessive clutter is the No. 1 impetus for remodeling the kitchen. Tanturri suggests these clutter-busting kitchen ideas:
Smaller is better. Many new kitchen systems incorporate space-saving appliances, dual-use workspaces and hidden storage areas.
Transform cabinets with pull-out drawers and hidden corner shelves.
Kitchen islands add storage space and, with stools, an alternative place to sit and eat.
Drawer dividers allow for more organized utensils.
money
Community garden grants
Fiskars, the Wisconsin-based maker of those familiar orange-handled tools for sewing, gardening, home improvement, school and crafts, invites community garden groups to apply for grant money through its 2007 Orange Thumb program. Grant recipients will either receive $1,500 in Fiskars Garden Tools or $800 in gardening materials. Applications are due Feb. 28. Find out more at fiskars.com/US or call 800-500-4849.
