Archive for the ‘Travel’ Category
May 1st, 2008
What Do You Think About Gas Tax Rebates?
We don’t often venture into the realm of politics, but sometimes we see things we’re forced to comment on. In this case we’re alarmed to see both a leading Republican and Democratic candidate for president proposing something troubling for the environment — the “summer gas tax break” supported by both Senators John McCain and Hillary Clinton. While we are certainly feeling the pain of high energy bills too, we feel this proposal won’t help in that respect and will continue to send the wrong message about how to cure our addiction to oil.
This plan is flawed on many levels. First, it would cut federal tax revenues by almost $10 billion at a time when we can ill afford any further government budget shortfalls. Second, and of greatest concern to us at Low Impact Living, it incentivizes Americans to drive more this summer — precisely when we are needing to encourage gas conservation and support lower carbon emissions. Third, it would very likely have no positive impact on American’s wallets — increasing demand for gas without increasing supply would almost necessarily raise the price of gas this summer. That would mean the savings would end up in the coffers of big oil companies and the OPEC nations, not American consumers. Finally, Thomas Friedman of the New York Times points out that at the same time all we hear about is this ill-conceived short-term plan, our government is actively stymying the long-term initiatives that will help cut energy prices and global warming long term:
“Few Americans know it, but for almost a year now, Congress has been bickering over whether and how to renew the investment tax credit to stimulate investment in solar energy and the production tax credit to encourage investment in wind energy. The bickering has been so poisonous that when Congress passed the 2007 energy bill last December, it failed to extend any stimulus for wind and solar energy production. Oil and gas kept all their credits, but those for wind and solar have been left to expire this December. I am not making this up. At a time when we should be throwing everything into clean power innovation, we are squabbling over pennies.”
Seems pretty stupid, eh? What do you think? We’d love to hear your perspective on the issue!
To read more please see this editorial from the LA Times, “Clinton’s and McCain’s plans for a summer gas-tax suspension won’t solve anything.” The New York Times also covered the issue, both in a Thomas Friedman op-ed piece (subtly titled “Dumb as We Wanna Be”) and in their editorial “The Gas-Guzzler Gambit.”
March 31st, 2008
How To Save Money on Gas and Cut Global Warming
As gas prices near $4 per gallon and artic ice shelves plunge into the ocean, there has never been a better time to save gas and help reduce your contribution to global warming. And hey, saving up to $100 per month doesn’t hurt either, eh?
There are many easy ways you can reduce your gas consumption, keep cash in your pocket, and be a better steward of the environment.
+ Use public transportation. Ride the bus, take the metro, ride your bike. Or, gasp!– walk.
+ Carpool. There is even a site that helps you find people to share with– eRideShare.com.
+ Telecommute. Could you work from home today? Got lots of emails and conference calls– consider doing them from home.
+ Combine errands and walk between stops. Can you go to the grocery store and the post office in one trip rather than two? Can you walk from the drug store to the tailor without re-parking?
+ Slow it down there, pardner. If you are driving, remember the faster you go the faster you burn fuel. And rapid acceleration is a big gas-burner too. Use cruise control when you can on the highway. Slow and steady wins the race.
+ Keep your tires well-inflated. Inflated tires help you get better gas mileage. It’s good to check your tires at least once per month.
+ Keep it light. Remove any un-needed weight from the car. Your fuel efficiency is highest when your vehicle is light and aerodynamic. Thus also remove any car racks you’re not using as they create drag.
+ Keep your car tuned up and change your air filter frequently.
+ Try to park in the shade. Gasoline evaporates out of your tank, and sitting in the hot sun speeds up that process. Parking in the shade also keeps it cooler inside, and you will need less A/C to cool off when you get back in.
+ If you’re in the market for car, please consider getting a low- or no-emissions vehicle. A hybrid can be a good option, or you can get a diesel and then use biodiesel fuel. To learn more about hybrids, click here. To learn more about biodiesel, click here.
+ Or what about a motorcycle or a scooter instead of a car? These two-wheel options are much cheaper than cars and they often get 70 mpg or better. You’ll save a ton of money over a car! Check out some cool motos and scooters here.
February 27th, 2008
U.S. Cities Pedaling in the Right Direction
Will 2008 be the Year of the Bike? Washington D.C, San Francisco, New York, Chicago, Arlington and Portland all have low cost bike-sharing programs in the works – with several set to launch in 2008.
Most U.S. bike-share plans will be modeled after Paris’ successful Velib program that is funded by advertising behemoth JCDecaux, who purchased the bikes as partial payment for Paris billboard advertising rights. On similar terms, Clear Channel Outdoor will run the bike-sharing programs in D.C. and San Francisco, according to the AP.
About 120 bicycles will be deployed in the first phase of the Washington D.C. program at 10 locations around the city. Details on membership pricing have not been announced yet. Apparently the bikes will be stored in user stations around the city and members can get access to the bikes using a special card. The launch date is not official yet but should be in in the late spring of 2008. (We hope!)
The simple efficiency of the bicycle, as a short distance mode of transportation, is amazing. If automobiles advanced to a place where they were soundless and ran on pollution-free, rapidly renewable fuel, they would still pale in comparison to a bike that offers low-impact exercise and is made with significantly less material. Ironically, the first widely popular “high wheel” bicycle came along in the late 19th century at the beginning of the Industrial Revolution.
Many turn of the century innovations were a catalysts to our current climate crisis, yet excellent solutions, such as the bicycle, were invented at the same time. When discussing tactical solutions to global warming, noted environmentalist Paul Hawken says, “The technological solutions are here. I’m not saying that stunning new things aren’t being invented all the time, but that’s not the obstacle. The obstacle, of course, is ourselves”.
Well, it looks like we may be stepping out of the way when it comes to utilizing the time tested efficiency of the bike. Kudos to modern cities for jumping on the bike-sharing bandwagon and getting big business to pay for it!
December 2nd, 2007
Environmental Thoughts on Winter Sports
It’s safe to say that most downhill skiers and snow boarders love this planet. After all, breathing clean mountain air and taking in majestic landscapes are a big part of what makes winter sports such a joy. Just thinking about it makes me happy and I’m a marginal skier at best.
Unfortunately, the three billion dollar winter sports industry is not exactly good news for the planet. From the creative destruction of equipment; transportation emissions and excessive energy and water use for run grooming and snowmaking; all the way to deforestation, run-off pollution and loss of habitat. It’s expensive and we’re not just talking about your $87 lift ticket.
There are a few things we can do to lower the environmental and financial cost of winter sports.
One of the greenest things you can do for your favorite mountain is not to drive for fly to it. In 2006 Americans made 59 MILLION visits to mountain resorts. At a conservative estimate of 200 pounds of carbon dioxide emissions per trip, our winter sojourns caused close to 6 billion tons of emissions. Our airborne pollution is making evergreen trees more susceptible to disease and parasites, says Steve Barilotti in Loved to Death, adding another layer to the mountain drivers global warming contribution. Find a train, bus, shuttle or hybrid carpool. Almost anything beats taking your personal, gas guzzling SUV up to the slopes. The added benefit here is a no limit après ski party –bums and bunnies beware.
There are a few winter sports that make less of an imprint on the environment and still put a rose on the cheek and a sparkle in the eye. Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in designated areas are a lift-free, nature-made snow alternative to downhill adventures. These sports are also much easier on the body for us aging skiers. If downhill is the only way you roll, there are several resorts that are taking big steps in the right direction.
Aspen Snowmass in Colorado and Jackson Hole in Wyoming have the most progressive environmental management programs in the United States, with clean energy, biodiesel vehicles and low-flow toilets, to name a few initiatives. They both have the International ISO 14001 Certification, which has become the gold standard for green ski resorts. Expect to see more resorts with this certification in the near future, as mountains scramble to make environmental peace with their economic livelihoods.
There are so many resorts making green efforts, primarily in the area of clean energy, that we can’t mention them all here. One of my personal favorites, Sugar Bowl in Truckee, California is said to be the first resort to rely exclusively on wind power and several dozen have since followed suit. Go to www.keepwintercool.org to find a list of ski resorts trying to do the right thing or ask about the environmental programs at your favorite destinations and choose the mountain doing the most.
On the equipment side, if you are not Sean White or Johnny Mosley, there is no need for the latest equipment. Try a ski swap before heading to the sports equipment superstores. Then rummage through the family chest – I’m dying to see all those stretch pants and one-piece ski suits back on the slopes.
When new gear is a must, there are a few manufacturers using sustainable materials and clean energy. Venture Snow Boards makes boards with certified wood in a wind powered facility and Liberty Skis bamboo skis with clean energy too. Nau and Patagonia are classic standouts in the sustainable winter sports wear category, but even some of the trendy brands, like Volcom and Holden Outerwear, have come out with green lines.
November 16th, 2007
Organic Dining Across America: Los Angeles
Well, if you know me, you know I love food. I love to eat, eat, eat. Then drink a little and eat some more. And these days here in Los Angeles we have so many delicious, nutritious organic and local food options it’s mind-blowing. There are too many to cover here– but it is my joy to share with you a sampling of some our favorite LA eateries that feature wonderful organic, local cuisine.
Tender Greens
We eat here about once a week. Tender Greens is friendly little spot in Culver City that is affordable, delicious, and attractive. You walk in, order in line while they prepare the food right in front of you, and then you take it on a tray to a sweet seat either outside on the garden patio or at one of the tables in the warmly-lit dining room. They serve bountiful organic salads– but its the hot plates that will keep you coming back hungry and happy. Organic chicken, beef, ahi tuna and typically a special (lamb? duck? who knows but you won’t be disappointed) and these come with a side of their FAB-ulous mashed potatoes. Pair your meal with one of the great wines by the glass or a home-made mint lemonade. Then they have sinful dessert treats to really lay you out flat (or was that fat?). One of the best things about Tender Greens is the price– you can have an amazing dinner for two for under $40, and feel like you’ve been out for a top-flight gourmet meal. Anyone from LA knows that ain’t easy to do. We give this place 5 pine trees (or alternative to stars).
9523 Culver Blvd., Culver City, 90232 Phone 310-842-8300 (*Note to owners: Please open more of these around town! Thanks.)
Bloom Cafe
Another favorite. Started by the same Frenchman who was one of the original owners of foodie-fave Pastis on Beverly, the fairly new Bloom Cafe on Pico is a gem. They make great salads– the heirloom tomato salad and the tamale salad are stellar. I particularly love the soba noodles with chicken, and my hubby loves the Thai-style pasta (the sauce has coconut-milk!). Vegetarians and carnivores will both be very happy here. And it’s BYOB and wonderfully priced, so you have a really amazing dinner for two for $40 or less (not easy in LA!).
5544 West Pico Blvd (between Fairfax and La Brea), Los Angeles 90019, Phone 323-934-6900
Canelé
This is a fairly new spot in up-and-coming Atwater Village and it is a great winner. The ingredients are fresh, organic and delicious. The menu changes frequently but the beet salad is devine as are the clams…the mains are hearty and thoughtful. You’ll feel like you’re in a French neighborhood restaurant with some Cal-Med flair thrown in for tasty measure. The desserts are sinful and fabulous. I didn’t have the chocolate almond cake, but I’ve heard I need to go back for it. You will not regret an evening spent at Canelé.
3219 Glendale Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90039 phone (323) 666-7133
Axe Restaurant
Over on the Westside, residents of Venice Beach have a real treat in Axe Restaurant(pronounced A-shay). Axe focuses on organic, super-fresh produce and they turn out delicious creations every day. The flatbreads are amazing, as are the steaks and chicken. The crowd is very artsy and swank, and the aesthetic of the place is quite hip. This is a great place to take a date you’re trying to impress with your excellent taste. And if the date is boring, at least you will really enjoy the meal.
Real Food Daily
A member of our Low Impact Living staff, Shayna Prunier, could practically live at Real Food Daily. (She is one of those dedicated souls who just calls it “RFD”– assuming we’ll all know the glory of which she speaks.) I have to concur that Real Food Daily offers a delicious, healthy homecoming meal every time we go. These are dedicated organic vegetarians– you won’t find any steak here. But the lentils, the noodles, the fresh veggies, the tofu, the sauces…. they are all excellent. I am not a vegetarian and I get cravings for this place every other week. They have outlets in Santa Monica and West Hollywood, so you can get your RFD fix anytime.
Real Food Daily, in Santa Monica is located at 514 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone (310) 451-7544 and in West Hollywood at 414 N. La Cienega Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90048 phone (310) 289-9910
November 4th, 2007
Organic Dining Across America: Chicago
The Windy City…A land famous for Frank Lloyd Wright, Wrigley Field, House music, and Al Capone. The culinary classics of this town still remain the Chicago-style hot dog (with pickle spears, tomatoes, and “sport” peppers) and, of course, Chicago Deep Dish. So where can Low Impact Living possibly begin our search for America’s greatest organic dining in a town better known for pizza pies than biodynamic brussel sprouts?
At the best pizza place in town, of course, for a big bite of…Crust. Yes, Chef Michael Altenburg has found a way to feed Chicagoans pizza that they can actually feel good about. He opened the country’s fourth-ever certified organic restaurant earlier this year to nothing but accolades. Rather than the traditional deep dish style, Altenberg prefers to serve his 95% organic ingredients on piping hot herb-encrusted flatbread. His flatbreads come with everything from the simple Shroom with goat cheese, and spinach, to the wilder Mexicali Blues, topped with wood-fired shrimp, chihuahua cheese, pico de gallo, heirloom peppers, and cilantro. Only because Crust’s ingredients are of such high quality, do I not feel a need to question in greater detail just what exactly is Chihuahua Cheese. The Sweet Basil Salad with its fresh-pulled mozzarella, tomato, red onion, and basil is just perfect if you prefer your pizza without the…you know. 2056 W. Division Street 773.235.5511
Crust isn’t Michael Altenberg’s first organic restaurant venture. He founded one of Chicago’s greatest restaurants, which is actually not quite in Chicago. Just on the outskirts of the city lies Campagnola. Translated loosely as “woman of the countryside,” Campagnola has been lauded as a restaurant that feels so welcoming that walking through the front door feels like walking into a friend’s home. And though Michael Altenberg has now moved on to flatbread heaven, Chef Vincent DiBattista is holding down the reputation of this sophisticated Italian bistro just fine. The Garlic Sausage with Fingerling Potato Salad and the Steamed Mussels in Saffron Fennel Broth make divine starters. You can follow it with a bowl of Linguine with Wood-Fired Prawns, Preserved Lemon & Radicchio or skip the pasta altogether and enjoy the sustainably-raised lamb, chicken or steak. Campagnola is the perfect place to bring vegetarians and carnivores together under one roof to enjoy the bounty of organic, seasonal delicacies the Illinois countryside has to offer. 815 Chicago Avenue 847.475.6100
William Rice of the Chicago Tribune has touted Karyn Calabrese as “the high priestess of raw food.” Priestess or no, she certainly is a pioneer in the Chicago restaurant world, bravely opening this Midwest city’s first completely raw restaurant- Karyn’s Raw Vegan Gourmet Restaurant. Here vegans and raw food junkies feast on seaweed dim-sum, almond pate, and basil “ravioli” filled with macademia whipped creme and sun-dried tomato puree. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the emerging Raw Food trend, this diet does not allow for food to be heated above 110°F and involves a lot of nut purees, thinly sliced vegetables, and dehydrated or sprouted grains.
If all this sounds a wee bit too adventurous for you, head over to Karyn’s Cooked for a big ol’ Slab of Ribs, a barbecued tofu and seitan sandwich served on a torpedo roll. If you’re in the mood for something a bit more elegant, try the grilled polenta layered with wild porcini and shitake mushrooms. And even if you don’t have an appetite, Karyn’s mini empire can help you work one up at her Inner Beauty Center, which provides yoga & pilates classes, detox courses, and bodywork.
Raw: 1901 North Halsted Street 312.255.1590
Cooked: 738 North Wells Street 312.587.1050
Eat hearty and healthy in Chicago, everyone! Next up in our series, Los Angeles, the tasty home of Low Impact Living, Inc. And to find more delicious organic restaurants around the country, please consult our organic dining listings across the US by clicking here.
