So Right, So Smart

The RiverRun International Film Festival is in town this week and I saw an inspiring documentary on Tuesday called “So Right, So Smart,” directed by Justin Maine, Guy Noerr, Leanne Robinson-Maine and Michael Swantek. The movie mostly features the story of Ray Anderson, chairman of the international carpet company, Interface, who decided to move his company towards sustainability in a bold and dramatic manner. The film features a myriad of other designers, business owners, artists and environmentalists and has an interesting focus on how sustainable practices have provided a boost to their economic bottom line.

More importantly, the film highlights environmental issues that must be addressed in all sectors of the marketplace. I was inspired as a designer, a small business owner, and as a citizen of the world to improve my own everyday practices, from being more selective about what I throw away to better choosing the materials with which I work and create.

If you’re in or around the Winston-Salem area, I’d highly recommend attending one of the last two screenings, which will take place this Saturday and Sunday. More information can be found at www.riverrunfilm.com.

Make Your Spring Cleaning Green

If you’re like me, you’ve caught the spring cleaning bug and are looking for ways to freshen up your home now that you’ve been cooped up for many snowy months. If replacing windows, buying new appliances, or installing new heating or air systems is on your list, check out this directory of incentives, courtesy of the Piedmont Environmental Alliance. Most of the information is geared towards North Carolina residents, but there’s also a link that can help you get up to $1,500 in federal tax credits for choosing energy efficient systems.

Tax Credits and Rebates for Homeowners

Whether it’s replacing windows, installing new heating or air conditioning systems, or finally getting that new dishwasher, April is the time to make your home more energy efficient. Check out the links below to find out what incentives North Carolina, Duke Energy and the Federal Government are offering to homeowners who purchase energy efficient products. Just think of all the money you can save with these incentives and with lower energy bills for years to come. Plus, saving energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions in our community from coal powered energy plants.

North Carolina Appliance Rebate –April 22-25, homeowners can save 15% when you buy energy star rated washers, dishwashers, refrigerators, and freezers. Depending on the funds available, a second phase in June will offer rebates on Energy Star residential gas storage water heaters, tank less gas water heaters, central air conditioners, heat pumps and gas furnaces that replace older items.

Duke Energy Smart $avers Rebates –Cash rebates up to $200 when you install high efficiency HVAC equipment in your home.

Federal Tax Credits for Energy Efficiency -Get up to $1500 in Federal tax credit when you purchase qualifying energy efficient or renewable energy systems for your home. This includes certain insulation, roofing, water heaters, windows, solar energy systems, and heating and cooling systems.

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And if you’re thinking of updating the laundry room, check out this great article from Inhabitat (a great source for all things sustainable) that’s all about how to make this space green and a little more inviting. After all, you’re going to be in there regardless, so why not make it pretty?

(I'd be a lot more motivated to do laundry if I had these guys to work with...)