A Blog by WARM Training Center
green living
Landscaping this Summer
May 27th
The natural land around our buildings adds personality and value to our homes. As you get ready for the summer, consider some of these landscaping ideas, maybe try a few that appeal to your interests.
1. Plant native species. Native plants have already adapted to Michigan’s climate, so they require less maintenance to thrive. You’ll spend more time and money trying to make non-native plants grow, it’s not worth the hassle. Michigan has many beautiful native plants to choose from, check out a farmer’s market near you for flowers and plants, or grow your own from seeds.
2. Plant a garden. Gardens are a good use of land, produce fresh food, and are a great hobby. Start out with a small plot and see if you enjoy it, gardens complement a yard well and cut down on the amount of grass you need to mow. The Greening of Detroit is a local resource that offers gardening classes, sells supplies, and can even help your community establish a garden. Continue reading “Landscaping this Summer” »
Buying Green Supplies – locally!
Mar 3rd
Where I can I find green supplies (paints, recycled flooring, etc.) locally?
– Ilene, Eastpointe
I get asked this question all the time, and I’m happy to report that I have some new answers. Continue reading “Buying Green Supplies – locally!” »
Home Energy Rating System
Feb 25th
If you plan on doing renovations this year or want to understand how energy efficient your home is, consider having a qualified Home Energy Rater analyze your home. Home Energy Raters examine your homes energy bill, energy consumption, and waste to determine how efficient your home is and provide a plan for improvements. Continue reading “Home Energy Rating System” »
Lead Paint Solutions!
Jan 21st
I’m looking for ways to tackle lead paint in rehabbing a building. Any suggestions?
- John, Detroit
Lead is a serious threat to health, most especially for children. And, I’m happy to say, we’ve got a nice little gem to share with anyone trying to tackle lead paint abatement.
First, let’s stay clear that lead is a serious problem with many spin-off negative effects (higher aggression in teens, lower school scores, etc.). Excellent data on the lead problem in Detroit is available through Wayne State University’s Lead Poisoning Research. Note, for example, that 1 in 6 children in the USA suffers from lead poisoning! It’s very important to get kids who spend lots of time in older homes (pre-1978) tested regularly. Free testing for kids 6 and under is available through the city of Detroit’s Lead Poisoning and Prevention program. Continue reading “Lead Paint Solutions!” »
Great Lakes Green Conference 2009
Jan 18th
It’s never too early to start thinking about the Great Lakes Green Conference coming this August 21 & 22 to Grand Rapids, MI. The conference focuses on green living and the best ways you can green your home and life – it features builders and vendors so you can talk with the professionals directly.
For those looking to exhibit or sponsor the event, the conference is accepting applicatcations now – sign up before it’s too late! For those who like to plan ahead you can even register now. We’ll keep you posted on future updates as the conference draws closer.