My Neighbor Paul attended the Green Fest last week as a representative for P-Patch. Here are some of his takeaways:
- There are two types, gas powered and electric. The gas powered units have a larger per gallon per minute heating rate, but won’t work in all of our homes, because they require a special venting system. The system looks like a wall panel. More expensive than electric.
- The electric powered systems are really small (about 20 lbs), doesn’t require a venting system, but has a smaller per gallon per minute heating rate. Less Expensive.

A handmade (in India) turtle made by Deepti Shankar’s Earthentree company. Eco-friendly, inexpensive and durable goods like these will be at the Green Festival tomorrow.
Prefab sheds - a nice option for a home office or other types of add-ons. Basement conversions can cost $150k whereas the shed can be had for $15k. Article mentions Seattle Architect, Ryan Smith and has a photo of a Wallingford shed.
Loved this quote from Seattle City Councilman Richard Conlin regarding whether people can change their plastic bag habit: “Plastic bags were only invented like three decades ago. It’s not like this was a pioneer tradition.”
These baggu bags are inexpensive ($8 each), durable and capacious. One Baggu holds the contents of 2 to 3 plastic grocery bags (up to 25 lbs.). The best part: they fold into a flat 5” x 5” pouch that easily slips into a purse or pocket.
Reusable grocery bags - a must-have in the Seattle of the future - though note that the city plans to distribute free reuseable grocery bags before initiating the 20 cent fee. No telling how cute these will be (not very - me thinks).

Looking for a cute reusable grocery bag? Skn has some nice ones - made from 100% organic cotton for $24.95 each.