Get The Knowledge. Make A Difference.

by Eric Hancsak
November 23, 2006

We have decided this month to devote our entire issue to subjects related to the environment.

It has be extremely evident recently, that the health of our planet has been in question. Coverage on network news, in national publications, in numerous documentaries and books, and even mention on prime-time tv shows has brought the subject to the forefront. Frankly, I think this publicity is decades overdue.

While many of the "doomsday" reports sound a bit overblown, turning your head and ignoring the issue is the worst thing one can do. The truth is, our planet is sick and unhealthy, which in turn makes us as humans sick and unhealthy. The earth will not become a desolate wasteland tomorrow or 10 years from now. However, there is no disputing the fact that there are events occurring today, this minute, that effect public and planet health. The evidence is overwhelming. Two recent reports come to mind:

- A paper published in the journal of Science suggested that overfishing, pollution, and other environmental factors may cause the world's seafood supply to collapse (90% depletion) by 2048.

- Neurotoxin experts from Harvard School of Public Health, Philippe Grandjean and Philip Ladrigan recently told New Scientist Magazine that widespread, unregulated use of chemicals used in cleaning products, glues, pesticides and elsewhere may be contributing to the increased incidence of autism, attention deficit disorder, cerebral palsy and retardation in children.

"Doomsday" reports? Maybe. But why take the chance?

Typically, most environmental awareness happens in the spring and summer months, when most people are more able to take advantage of outdoor activities. They can't help but notice. But when stuck indoors during the winter months, it's easy to forget how fragile our environment can be. So while you are readying yourself to nestle in for the winter, I've put together a listing of online sources to help educate and enlighten you about these and other environmental issues, as well as find out about some great environmentally responsible products. Just in time for Christmas!

I encourage you to read, and learn as much as you can to make informed and educated decisions for your family, your self and your environment.

Natural Resources Defense Council
www.nrdc.org
"The nation's most effective environmental action organization - using law, science and the support of 1.2 million members and online activists to protect the planet's wildlife and wild places and to ensure a safe and healthy environment for all living things."

StopGlobalWarming.org
www.stopglobalwarming.org
Learn about global warming and how to be part of the solution. Join the virtual march.

McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry - Cradle to Cradle Design
www.mbdc.com/c2c_home.htm
A design philosophy in which products can be created to be perpetually reused and recycled instead of thrown into landfills.

KickTheOilHabit.org
www.kicktheoilhabit.org
Launched by Robert Redford, here you can learn about E85 and other renewable fuels.

DH Love Life
www.dhlovelife.com
See Darryl Hanna's take on natural products, bio fuels and other environmental issues. Be sure to watch the fascinating and eye-opening video about mushrooms calls "Fun Guy."

Clean Air Gardening
www.cleanairgardening.com
The greatest collection of environmentally friendly products for your lawn and garden anywhere.

Gaiam
www.gaiam.com
This company sells socially and environmentally responsible products ranging from home goods to apparel. Check out their fantastic "Solar Living" section.

Community Supported Agriculture
www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/pubs/csa/csa.shtml
This program lets you buy shares in a local participating farm. Use less fuel, use less packaging, and eat healthier.