Green Jobs - Do They Have to Have a Color?

In this economy does it really matter what color our jobs are? Seriously. There are dark agents afoot. Lurking. Obstructing the possible creation of new jobs based on "green" technology or "green" principals (i.e. "work in agricultural, manufacturing, research and development (R&D), administrative, and service activities that contribute(s) substantially to preserving or restoring environmental quality...") at all costs. There is a green backlash. But this backlash is primarily about semantics.

Illustration: John Shakespeare.

Announce that your company will be creating 250 "green" jobs and rather than being thrilled that there is actual, measureable job growth, a certain contingent of the population will assume that you have just destroyed 500 "real" jobs to get your 250 "green" jobs. And the only way you could have possibly created "green" jobs in this economic environment is by sucking off the tit of the Government Sow.

Can't we just say 250 new JOBS? Do they have to have a COLOR?

10 Quick and (relatively) Painless Energy Savers

So, I thought I'd share some super EASY ways to save some energy - and some $.$$ - around the house:

1. Compact Florescent Light Bulbs (CFL's)
• If you haven't changed out your light bulbs already, shame on you! It easy and incredibly efficient - a CFL produces about 75% less heat! And now, there are a myriad of CFL's for almost any residential or commercial application.
2. Power Down your Power Strips
• If you don't want to bother crawling around on the floor or reaching behind your desk to power down your power strips, then look into replacing your current strips with "Smart Strip" auto switching technology. These things are COOL! They automatically power down groups of outlets when not in use - check it out! ---> Smart Strip LCG3 Energy Saving Surge Protector with Autoswitching Technology, 10-Outlet
3. Stop the Air Leaks
• Air leakage is the single most common source of energy loss through heat transfer (eg. cold drafts in the winter, 'hot spots' in the summer). With some simple investigation you can find and stop these nasty energy zappers with some well placed sealant. Spray foam application usually works the best, but sometimes a simple application of caulk or weatherstripping works just as well.