Looks like we all are suggesting techniques used by the U.S. Green Building Council. You can download their free LEED for Homes guide at http://www.usgbc.org. If you want more detail you can purchase the expanded edition that goes into more detail. I've LEED registered my 1956 Frank Lloyd Wright home as a gut rehab. See my checklist at http://green-cincinnati.com/category/flw-boulter-house/.

Lexi, #1 When choosing cabinets you want to have formaldehyde free glues and low volatile organic compounds that give off little or no toxic fumes. #2 For countertops using there are quite a few manufacturers that incorporate recycled paper, recycled glass and limestone. here is a example. http://www.squakmountainstone.com/ #3 Choose Energy Star appliances which will save your utility costs and may provide rebates for your refrigerator, dishwasher along with water sense approved faucet fixtures. Here is a useful link http://www.energystar.gov/ I hope this serves you well! Pete F,

Lexi, my links did not come through on my first comments. To find USGBC chapters ~ http://www.usgbc.org/FindaChapter/ChapList.aspx To find Certified Green Professional Builders at NAHB ~ http://www.nahb.org/reference_list.aspx?sectionID=1434

Kitchen Remodeling. Lexi I totally agree with Andrew: 1. You want to reduce waste as much as possible by reusing or giving away 2. Try to use renewable products and/or recycled products 3. Natural light with high efficient gas filled windows. I would also suggest: • Energy Star appliances that will continue to use less energy. • Efficient light fixtures such as LED’s that will give you great task lighting. • Find a ‘green’ contractor; try the NAHB website or your local USGBC chapter for accredited professionals. • Pick out all your materials before hand, have proper blueprints drawn so there are no miss communications. If we can be of any further help please send e-mail, good luck.

lexi: 1. divert as much of the waste from the demolition away from a landfill as you can. an increasing number of waste management facilities have diversion programs for construction waste that can reduce the impact on the landfill. not sure if there is a habitat for humanity "re-store" near you or a place that takes in used building materials and re-sells them for profit. we have one in our community and its a good feeling to leave something there, i also buy stuff there too. also consider re-installing the old cabinets in a garage, basement or other area of the house (or a friend's house). 2. use materials with low-energy or recycled content. cork flooring, countertops with easily renewable core materials, tile made from recycled glass. the neat thing about all of these is that so many manufacturers have jumped into the game, your kitchen doesn't have to look dull or strictly earth-tone... 3. bring as much natural light into the space as is feasible, which can greatly reduce the amount of time the lights are on. consider the layout and how frequently used task areas (sink, cutting board) may be placed near a window or under a skylight. best of luck, let me know how it goes ...

Thanks for your question. For more information about ICLEI, please visit http://www.iclei.org/ Thanks! Daphne

Thanks so much for your question. Please provide more details. Thanks! Daphne

This is a great question! Please visit your town page where you will find the farmer's market initiative, which will identify the farmers' markets closest to you. Please let me know if you are able to find one. Thanks! Daphne

Thanks for your question! Please check out your town page where you will find your nearest community garden. Please let me know if you are able to reach someone there. Daphne

Thanks so much for your question. We are reaching out to many organizations. What is your interest in George Soros and Van Jones and how do you seen them contributing to GreenTowns? Daphne

Awesome!

To find your nearest community garden, go to your town page and look through the community garden initiative for the one closest to you. Please let me know if you are able to find one nearby! Also, consider joining your town page! Daphne

Thanks for your question. Having an urban chicken ordinance can be done, but it takes time and persistence. As a next step, I would suggest that you contact the mayor and meet to discuss the subject. Please keep me posted on your progress! Also, consider joining your town page and include info about this idea in your profile. Daphne

Marina Marchese has a facebook page with a discussion board here: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marina-Marchese/145898545466768 I hope this helps!

Dear David I'm sorry I don't have Marina's contact info. I know she lives in Weston (if that's the same Marina we're talking about) but that's all.