The environment is “big news” with exciting new products and initiatives being introduced into the market every day. To keep abreast of the latest, I encourage organizations to e-mail me information on new developments – or background information that can help me with stories I’m currently working up for national publications (a few are listed below). My specialty is profiling people (home builders, contractors, home owners), or a specific project to give my articles a more understandable and approachable perspective. Sometimes I might document an interesting project without a specific story in mind – and use it later for a broader piece.
Green Home Builders
I’m always looking for both big and smaller home builders (and land developers) that have made a commitment to green. I really like to find those builders that may not have had as much media coverage as others.
Green Projects
I’m on the lookout for progressive renovations or new homes that are in a variety of styles and sizes (multi-family, live/work, lofts and affordably priced green homes are great too!) - love to get interviews with homeowners on what it's like to live in a green house.
Green Collar Jobs
One of the topics that's come up during the presidential campaign is green collar jobs. What are some of the new jobs emerging in the market – and are these already in demand? What new programs/degrees are being offered by schools (in the U.S. and abroad)? Are there headhunting firms/job hunting websites that specialize in green/sustainability?
The Lowdown on Lighting
Looking at products that increase natural lighting -solar tubes & new generation of sky lights that actually do double duty as solar panels. What’s happening with CFLs (new generation that are dimmable and how to recycle) and are LEDs ready for the market – especially for interior residential lighting (I’ve seen some great stuff at IBS). I'm really interested in getting some product to try out for myself.
Ecotourism
What is it – what certifications are available? Are hotels and resorts finding a lot of interest in this? Are there cases of “green washing.” I’m interested in visiting hotels/resorts/tourist areas that are tapping into this trend.
New Orleans Green Story
Brad Pitt has lent his name to Global Green’s efforts to put a very public, and environmentally-friendly, face on rebuilding efforts in New Orleans. What else is happening with green in the city – both from a new construction and renovation stand-point?
