Neuton Battery Powered Lawnmower

This month's online newsletter from Garden Design Magazine features this fantastic product from a small company in Vermont; Neuton. Here is a quote from the website

"We are dedicated to making the world’s most innovative and dependable battery-powered lawn and garden equipment for people who care about the maintenance of their properties and the health of our environment. Our forward-thinking designs reduce the noise and pollution of traditional gas power equipment, making yard work more enjoyable. Consistent with these goals, a portion of our profits are donated to community organizations working to clean our air."

Forbes Magazine recently named Vermont the "Greenest" state, and Neuton is doing their part to keep that accolade going strong.

While I am generally opposed to large expanses of lawn, I do understand that in other parts of the country a large lawn doesn't have quite the environmental impact as it may in Southern California. Lets be honest, the equation of large lawn = status symbol is antiquated and absurd. But when lawn alternatives don't make the cut (pardon the pun) and a green carpet is the only option, a battery-powered lawn mower just makes way to much sense.

At around 2-3 times the cost ($349-449) of your average Home Depot special, the Neuton mower requires an initial investment. But think of the time, money, fuel, and oil you will save. Not to mention the jealous looks from your neighbors as they see you "Going Green" and looking good at the same time.

Another notable from Neuton? The Noise Pollution Clearinghouse rated Neuton the quietest rotary mower you can buy. Not to shabby...

Modern Birdhouse

The Modern Birdhouses carried by Wieler are the perfect item to introduce to your backyard to encourage the birds to visit. The hand-made birdhouses are built from sustainably harvested teak that has been certified through Rainforest Alliance’s Smartwood program. The oil-finished wood is a beautiful addition to any area, and cavity-nesting birds like chickadees, bluebirds, wrens and swallows will enjoy the suites. Stainless steel screws and sandblasted aluminum roofs complete the ensemble of simple lines and modern architecture. The floors of the houses are easily removed. The birdhouses are protected by an oil that is resistant to water, mildew and U rays, so your bird’s haven will stay in beautiful condition. Wieler

Modern Bird House from Green-Form

This modern bird house is a great place for a feathered friend to make a nest. Birds will love the cool features that come from the fibre concrete make-up – the breathable materials keep the bird box cool throughout the hot days of summer. Natural materials that make up the bird box keep the eco-smart patio-lovers at peace, knowing they are creating eco-friendly habitats for feathered ones. The small peep-hole allows small birds to nest and rest, while larger birds or squirrels cannot reach them. The earth-toned bird box will fit into your landscape whether you want it to stand out or to blend in. If you place in a tree it can be camouflaged, or it can hang from a lone branch to create art while functioning as a nesting place. Available through Green-Form.

1st Annual Cardiff Green Awareness Expo

Come visit me at the 1st Cardiff Green Awareness Expo, being put on by the Cardiff Chamber of Comerce. It should be a lot of fun and very informative. I will be speaking in the Auditorium sometime between 11:00am and 12noon.