Reduce your carbon footprint!

A couple Green Tips, courtesy of the EPA…

Leaving your car at home twice a week can cut greenhouse gas emissions by 1,600 pounds per year. Save up errands and shopping trips so you need to drive fewer times. If you commute to work, ask if you can work from home at least some days, and you’ll reduce air pollution and traffic congestion – and save money.

Protect yourself from sun overexposure!

In summer, always apply sun block SPF 15 or more to protect your skin from solar UV radiation. Just five or more sunburns can really increase your risk of developing skin cancer. The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. so at the times, seek shade or wear protective clothing such as a long-sleeved shirt.

Check out the U.S. Environmental Protection agency website for more Green Tips!  Celebrate the 40th anniversary of Earth Day!

In-Season Produce: Markets near Westmont at Chesterfield

Do you shop for your fresh food and produce locally?  If not, you may want to give it some serious consideration.  Although today’s global market allows us to buy foods grown almost anywhere in the world at any given time, this option is not the most sustainable.

Buying in-season fruits and vegetables that are locally grown helps to eliminate the environmental damage caused by shipping foods across the country – and in some cases – the world.  Not only does your food dollar go directly to the farmers, but you’re able to enjoy the health benefits of eating fresh, better tasting, unprocessed produce.  According to the National Resources Defense Council, in-season foods for the state of Missouri (and surrouning areas) include:

Asparagus Green Peas Lettuce Scallions Spinach Beets (Oklahoma) Brussels Sprouts (Oklahoma) Bunching Greens (Iowa) Collards (Tennessee) Gourds (Tennessee) Greens (Arkansas, Oklahoma, Tennessee) Herbs (Arkansas, Tennessee)

Honey (Tennessee) Indian Corn (Tennessee) Kohlrabi (Iowa) Lettuce Mix (Iowa) Mushrooms (Tennessee) Onions (Illinois, Oklahoma) Oriental Greens (Iowa) Peas (Illinois, Oklahoma) Radishes (Kansas, Oklahoma) Swiss Chard (Oklahoma) Turnips (Oklahoma)

Here is a short list of markets that sell fresh locally grown foods near the Westmont at Chesterfield area.  If you can suggest any other markets, leave a comment and let the community know!

Markets near Westmont at Chesterfield

Going Green: Car Pool

Check out these simple environment friendly tips courtesy of the Divine Caroline website…

• Buy fresh fruits and vegetables in season.
• Buy compact fluorescent light bulbs. You’ll find more on energy-efficient products and practices at Energy Star.
• Turn off lights and electronics when you leave the room. Unplug your cell phone charger from the wall when not using it. Turn off energy strips and surge protectors when not in use (especially overnight).
• Recycle your newspapers.
• Car pool. Connect with other commuters at eRideShare.

Fogelman Management Group is focused on spreading the word about Going Green, a term that signifies the social movement towards environmental conservation, protection and improvement.  It’s all about making simple lifestyle choices that will lessen our negative impact on the Earth.  Making and using home products with organic materials is just one way to we can make a difference.

Stay tuned to the Westmont at Chesterfield blog throughout the month of April for more tips on how you can play your part.

Tips on Going Green for the Super Bowl

I’m so ready for the Super Bowl. In addition to watching a great game, I get to spend some time with family and friends. Are you having people over? I was online looking for ways to go green for the Super Bowl and was excited to see how easy it was going to be. Skip the paper plates and use your own.

Even if you don’t have enough, have a friend bring extra. This doesn’t mean everyone has to bring their own plate, just having one person help out should be enough. One more option is to not over prepare your menu. Keep things simple with a chili/hot dog combo or make a few pizzas. Just don’t keep the oven on all night. Here are some more tips.

Save The Planet And Recycle

It looks like we have got to get serious about recycling.  Today I have decided to link you to a web site that is a great resource for finding a recycling center in or near your area.

On this web site you can find ways to recycling household items such as, plastic bags, aluminum, glass, and electronics just to name a few.I make sure that I take plastic bags, bottles, paper etc. to a recycling center.  I know it may not be much or all that I can do, but it’s a start.  I would also like to know how you take steps to make the planet a little greener.

Check out the web site and let me know what you think.