money
Responsible construction
Building Earth-smart can cost about 10 percent more than traditional construction but has long-term energy savings of about 35 percent, according to the National Association of Home Builders. The trade organization also reports that green homes command a 15 percent higher resale value – one reason green construction is on track to account for 10 percent of all residential building by 2010.
energy
Green is the new black
Eco-friendly home furnishings were all the rage at the recent Las Vegas World Market. But one product – the eBulb – was a bright spot. Makers report that this lightbulb has the potential to halt the current increase in carbon-dioxide emissions in the United States. “If every home in the U.S. replaced their standard incandescent bulbs with the eBulb, it could reduce the electricity used for lighting nationwide by 50 percent (and cut) U.S. carbon emissions by 125 billion pounds,” says Shawn Dunn with American Lighting. eBulb makers are in the process of securing a patent and expect to have the product in stores by the holidays.
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Emergency CPR (Cleaning Pros Rescue)
Weiman Home Care Products is accepting applications for its “Maid for a Year” contest. Five winners will receive biweekly cleaning service from Merry Maids and a year’s supply of Weiman’s most popular products including Granite Wipes, Stainless Steel Wipes and Leather Wipes. Write an essay of 200 or fewer words describing why you need to be rescued from household cleaning chores. Entries can be submitted at or sent to: Weiman “Maid for a Year” Contest, P.O. Box 6000, Villa Park, IL 60181. The entry deadline is Oct. 1.
