Green Living August 2016

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Dorie Morales Amanda Harvey Misty Voitovski Jeffrey E. Stein Rachel Luman

ADVISORY BOARD Veronica Bahn Valerie Crosby William Janhonen Derrick Mains Natalie Morris Thomas Williams

Paul Cocuzza Ken Edwins Jon Kitchell Mary McCormick Eric Olsen

CONTRIBUTORS David Brown Jennifer Burkhart Dr. Cameron Call Ric Coggins Gabrielle Hebert Amy Johnson Dr. Paul Pannozzo David Schaller

Jon Brun John Burkhart Brandon Catour Dr. Mark Gimbel William Janhonen Marisa Ostos Sue Pierce Ashley Schimke

MEDIA CONSULTANT Michelle White

CREATIVE INTERN Joshua Parris

EDITORIAL/SOCIAL MEDIA INTERNS Stephanie Bray Kate Burns Michael Cohen Mary Hamel Ofelia Montelongo

With Respect to Plants

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3

August 2016

Editor’s Note

S

ummer is officially over – at least it is for our youngest readers as they head back to their classrooms for the start of the school year. At Green Living, we get excited when we think about the future generation of green leaders. Our children are watching us closely, learning from our actions and deciding today how they will treat the world tomorrow. In this Back to School issue, we talk about the importance of Environmental Literacy programs for children, as well as educating kids and parents on healthy lifestyle choices as they approach this school year. Don’t miss our articles on tips for wearing backpacks correctly; swimming for fitness; connecting beyond the classroom; how Phoenix’s Washington Elementary School District significantly reduced their energy use; EcoGlen’s school garden projects; kid-tested recipes; and more!

This month, the National Parks Service is turning 100. Perhaps you spent this summer visiting one of the 407 national parks across the U.S. with your family. What a wonderful way to inspire respect for nature in your children! Arizona is home to 22 official national parks, monuments and historic sites – our most famous, of course, being the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. Last year, over 11 million people visited our Arizona national parks, which resulted in an economic

Our children are watching us closely, learning from our actions and deciding today how they will treat the world tomorrow. benefit of more than $932 million. Learn more about volunteering at a national park for your summer vacation on page 20, and don’t miss our spotlight on page 34 on the eco-friendly Xanterra Parks & Resorts located in national parks around the country.

Also, be sure to check out our special Solar and Energy section starting on page 21 for all things solar, and read more about our cover story on Iain Hamp, Associate Vice President of Community Affairs for Wells Fargo and the founder of the Phoenix Community ToolBank, on page 26.

Green Living invites you to celebrate as we host two fabulous launch parties in honor of this month’s August issue – one in Tempe and one in Tucson. Meet and mingle with other conscious people in the green industry, enjoy local food and vendor booths, enter to win eco-friendly door prizes, donate to a 50/50 raffle benefiting a local charity, and more! Find more information and RSVP at greenlivingaz.com/party and greenlivingaz.com/tucsonparty. We’d love to see you there!

Remember, the choices we make are witnessed by those who will inherit our one precious world.

Encourage your children to go beyond what is taught in school, become stewards of the Earth, and learn all they can from the world’s most educational classroom – nature.

Amanda Harvey Associate Editor

♥

I LOVE TO HEAR FROM OUR READERS!

Email me at editor@greenlivingaz.com

Follow @greenlivingaz and stay in touch with the newest topics on sustainability!

4 greenliving | August 2016

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departments

August 2016

on the cover Our cover story features Iain Hamp, Associate Vice President of Community Affairs for Wells Fargo and the founder of the Phoenix Community ToolBank. Read more of his story and his eco-conscious efforts on page 26. Photo taken by Vince Alfaro.

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play green 34 Sustaining Our National Treasures 36 EcoGlen: Improving Lives Through

live green 6 Defying Disease: How Plant-Based Foods Saved My Life 8 S.O.S. Save Our Seeds 10 Sunkissed or Sun Safe? Tips on Finding the Best Sunscreen 12 Backpack Burdens 14 Take the Plunge: Swimming Helps with Chronic Pain 16 Climate Change Series: Cochise County 18 Connecting Beyond the Classroom 19 Environmental Literacy: Supporting a Vibrant

Public Beautification

39 Launch Party Photo Collage 40 Summer Salads & Healthy Kids Recipes

and Sustainable Future

20 Volunteer for a Vacation

work green 24 Energy Conservation Program at Washington Elementary School District

26 Meet Iain Hamp: Founder of the Phoenix Community ToolBank

28 General Motors Drives Sustainability 30 Culture & Cultivation: Cult Coffee Roaster

31 Arizona Students Develop

30 greenlivingaz.com

Roles as STEM Advocates

34 42 Green Scenes Calendar of Events 46 Green Champions of the Month 47 He’s Green, She’s Green 48 Cool Outrageous Stuff

40

32 CalPortland Wins Two Awards for Sustainability

Special Advertising Section: Page 3 August 2016 | greenliving

5

NUTRITION

DEFYING DISEASE: HOW PLANT-BASED FOODS SAVED MY LIFE

BY AMY JOHNSON

F

or years, I thought I had a lack of willpower.

No matter what I did, I couldn’t lose a significant amount of weight. I would mess up and say I would do better the next day, but I kept making poor choice after poor choice. In time, those unhealthy food choices and lack of physical movement led to the development of disease – Type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, AMY JOHNSON, BEFORE & AFTER obesity, and severe osteopenia.

At 48 years old, I was so overweight I couldn’t sit comfortably in a regular-sized seat.

Fortunately, in May 2012, my college-aged son happened upon the powerful documentary “Forks Over Knives.”

Everything in the film resonated with me. The main message of the film is diet and lifestyle can switch on the genetic predisposition to develop many diseases – several of which I was dealing with personally.

A few years prior to watching the film, I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and prescribed oral medication to take three times a day as well as a statin to control my cholesterol levels. Being what I call a “pill choker,” I could barely get the medications in every day, which in turn caused me a great deal of stress. And on top of everything, I wasn’t getting better.

I continued to gain weight, my blood glucose levels soared, and I began to develop aches in my legs and in my hip.

After watching the film that would change my family’s life, my husband announced that we were going to ditch all

6 greenliving | August 2016

of the meat, dairy, eggs and processed foods in our home (as was recommended in the documentary), and kick our illnesses once and for all.

My husband, who was an athlete and had always been at a normal weight, could never get his cholesterol level under 200 for as long as I had known him. It was frustrating that his genetic propensity for cardiac illness (both of his parents have high cholesterol and ended up having heart attacks) seemed uncontrollable. So, the kitchen cleansing began, and we started experiencing life as it should be.

In only three months, I was able to stop taking all of my diabetes medications. Eating a whole-food, plant-based diet made up of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes and seeds, food was now my medicine! The weight began to melt off, and I was on my way to experiencing concerts, plane seats and exercise like other people did.

In addition, my husband’s cholesterol dropped to 150. Also, both of our teenaged sons were experiencing health benefits

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NUTRITION

Seed-based nutrition taps into the most concentrated form of nutrition from the plant.

EVEN THOUGH WE TOOK THE PLUNGE OVERNIGHT, IT DOESN’T HAVE TO BE THAT DRASTIC FOR EVERYONE. PEOPLE CAN CHOOSE TO MAKE SMALL CHANGES THAT WILL ULTIMATELY MAKE AN ENORMOUS DIFFERENCE.

like skin clearing, weight loss, improved energy levels, mental clarity, and the subsiding of depression symptoms. We were all winning, and the game seemed easy to play. We enjoyed every bit of the food we ate, and we came to enjoy a level of life we had never known existed.

As a result of this change in our lives, I left teaching middle school English to teach adults about this transformative lifestyle. I also started a food blog and several Facebook communities to unite people in their quest for health and support them on their journeys. I work with my doctor’s patients, coaching them through the transition process from the Standard American Diet (SAD) to a nutrient-rich plantbased lifestyle.

Since our transition to a plant-based lifestyle, we have experienced unexpected positive changes as well. I lost enough weight that I decided to try working through the “Couch to 5K” training program, and I ran my very first 5K this year (at almost 52 years old!). In addition, my husband and our oldest son began competing in running races as plant-based athletes, shaving off quite a bit of time from their previous races as animal-based product consumers. Our healthier bodies allowed us to push the limits physically – something we all struggled to do before.

Even though we took the plunge overnight (due to our pressing health conditions), it doesn’t have to be that drastic for everyone. People can choose to make small changes that will ultimately make an enormous difference. Try swapping out dairy milk and products for nut or soy-based options. Cut out all oil from cooking to assist with weight loss and improving the wellness of your arteries’ endothelial lining. Eat more fruits and veggies. Choose plant-based options (like a veggie burger or veggie/bean enchiladas) at a restaurant rather than their animal-based counterparts. Small yet consistent and permanent changes in your diet can lead to improved health and wellness – even if you don’t go all the way. Though, in my experience, making 100 percent plant-based eating a lifetime commitment will take you places you never thought possible!

Amy Johnson is a former middle school English teacher who is now a plant-based nutrition educator and chef. She has her certificate in Plant Based Nutrition from the T. Colin Campbell Foundation and eCornell. Amy runs the whole foods plant-based food blog mrsplantintexas.com as well as several Facebook support groups. Her own personal journey combating Type 2 diabetes and obesity (among other dietary illnesses) has allowed her to help thousands of people work toward healing their own bodies through healthy whole foods and other lifestyle changes.

For more articles about nutrition visit greenlivingaz.com/nutrition

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7

NUTRITION

BY RIC COGGINS

S

.O.S., an acronym for “Save Our Ship,” is commonly known around the world to mean that immediate action is required to prevent a loss-of-life disaster. Today, an S.O.S. is being sent out by those concerned about GMOs (genetically modified RIC COGGINS organisms) and the preservation of our planet’s plant diversity. The new S.O.S. “Save Our Seeds” distress signal is indeed being sounded out to all who are in range and who will respond to prevent disaster.

The travesty at hand is the mass extinction of thousands of genetically diverse varieties of food-producing plants that has already occurred in our lifetime, as well as the massive impending future loss in progress. Unlike other environmental threats whose causes, risks and solutions are debated at length, this travesty is quietly occurring while we largely take up other issues.

To drive home this point, consider the simple apple.

According to Cary Fowler, former executive director of the Global Crop Diversity Trust, more than 7,000 varieties of apples were in cultivation in the 1880s. Today, only about 200 remain. The other 6,800 varieties have passed into oblivion from lack of cultivation. No trees cultivated, no seeds produced, no more apple trees.

To blame for this “mass extinction,” as Fowler refers to it, are commercially produced varieties from big agriculture.

These genetically uniform engineered varieties are manipulated to be high yielding, pest resistant, and in some cases, herbicide (Roundup) resistant. While the conversations continue in scientific circles and congress as to the potential impact of GMOs, what is not subject to debate is that these few varieties are rapidly replacing thousands of openpollinated and genetically diverse varieties in the world’s food production fields. Often referred to as heirloom varieties, our historic seed legacy is the result of thousands of years of natural selection, followed by thousands more years of human cultivation. At an alarming rate, we are seeing these plants disappear. A case of “human selection,” we simply choose not

8 greenliving | August 2016

to cultivate these varieties, and in many cases varieties can be lost within a generation.

As much as any other cause responsible for this dramatic matter is the intense consumer pressure for immediate gratification. Our culture has come to demand that fresh agricultural products always be available to us – in any season.

This is one of the major driving forces for businesses like Monsanto to spend millions on the development of patented plant products which respond to and deliver varieties that cater to an “on demand” plant product availability.

It also forces farmers to gravitate toward growing plant varieties that ship well from faraway places and ripen off the plant in transit for predictable store delivery. As farmers have shifted cultivation to these big agribusiness varieties, they have ceased to cultivate open-pollinated heirloom varieties.

With no fresh seeds produced for future propagation and cultivation, eventually any remaining seeds over time become no longer viable and whole varieties become irretrievably lost.

One of the first to take action and sound the Save Our Seeds S.O.S. was the Arizona-based Native Seeds/SEARCH. S-E-A-R-C-H is an acronym for Southwest Endangered Aridland Resource Clearinghouse. Since 1983 the group has been “working to conserve and promote arid-adapted crop diversity to nourish a changing world.”

Native Seeds/SEARCH hosts a vast seed bank that has collected and archived nearly 2,000 varieties of native and adapted crops which have sustained native peoples of the Southwest for generations. Without the intervention of Native Seeds/SEARCH, many of these heirloom strains would have already been lost. To keep these varieties in cultivation and expand the seed base, the group owns and operates a conservation farm in Patagonia, Arizona. Careful work is done at this farm to produce “true” seeds for future cultivation. A true seed is one that has been grown in a way to avoid cross pollination and hybridization. These processes ensure genetic duplication which will reproduce the same plant and fruit characteristics of the parent line. The fresh seeds are then made available online and via their brick and mortar retail store located on Campbell Avenue in Tucson.

greenlivingaz.com

NUTRITION

NOW THAT WE’VE HEARD THE S.O.S HOW DO WE PARTICIPATE IN THE RESCUE OF OUR CULTIVATED BIODIVERSITY?

1

CHANGE THE DEMAND. Seek out and support local farmers. The support you give to these producers will not only enable them to continue growing open-pollinated heirloom varieties, but will also inspire and attract others to meet a growing demand for the same.

2

EDUCATE YOURSELF AND OTHERS. Check out these claims. Ask questions. Spend time at nativeseeds.org, rareseeds.com and councilforresponsiblegenetics.org.

Once you have informed yourself, send the S.O.S. out to your personal sphere of influence.

3 4

CREATE A NEW FAMILY TRADITION. Teach your children and their friends to plant seeds and grow heirloom plants.

BECOME A NATIVE SEEDS/SEARCH MEMBER. If you find yourself in southern Arizona, volunteer some time with them. It will make a difference on whether following generations will have our ancestor’s plants.

5

CULTIVATE HEIRLOOM VARIETIES YOURSELF. Whether you live on an irrigated acreage or simply possess a flower pot in a sunny window, you can cultivate some kind of heirloom plant. Not only will you help create a demand for open-pollinated seeds, but you could become a seed saver/producer yourself! It’s a great hobby!

6

VOTE WITH YOUR DOLLARS. Support the local farmer’s market or the non-GMO section of your produce counter. Also remember that your taxdeductible contributions to nonprofits like Native Seeds/ SEARCH allow them to not only do the heavy lifting of keeping our biodiverse heritage in cultivation, but also to provide free seeds to other groups who are in a position of continuing the same.

Ric Coggins is a District Sales Manager for Bosch Home Appliances.

Ric grew up on a one-acre organic garden tended to by his father, who was also a regular contributor to organic gardening and farming magazines.

Ric continues his father’s “green” traditions, living on one-acre in Mesa with his own organic garden.

For more articles about nutrition visit greenlivingaz.com/nutrition

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

SUNKISSED OR SUN SAFE? WHY FINDING THE BEST SUNSCREEN REALLY DOES MATTER

BY DR. MARK GIMBEL

A

s we deal with the extreme summer sun, it’s crucial to avoid overexposure to harmful UV rays, which is the primary cause for developing skin cancer.

Skin cancer, the most common of all cancers, includes basal cell cancers, DR. MARK GIMBEL squamous cell cancers, and melanoma.

Both basal and squamous cell cancers are slow-growing and have high cure rates. However, melanoma is much more aggressive and has a propensity to spread. Once it has spread, the chance for a cure significantly reduces.

With the rates of melanoma steadily rising over the past 30 years (the American Cancer Society estimates that roughly 76,380 new melanomas will be diagnosed in the U.S. this year), prevention and early detection of melanoma is of the utmost importance. The best way to prevent melanoma formation is to avoid the sun’s UV rays altogether. However, as we live in Arizona, this is not always feasible. Therefore, the next best way to protect the skin is with clothes and sunscreen for the sun exposed areas.

WHAT TYPE OF SUNSCREEN IS BEST? With so many sunscreens available on the market today, choosing the right sunscreen can be challenging for many people due to misconceptions regarding the effectiveness of different SPFs. Sunscreens can come with extremely high SPF numbers ranging from 50 all the way to 100. You may wonder if these higher SPF sunscreens are really better for the skin.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

The SPF number, or sun protection factor, indicates the percentage of UVB (Ultraviolet-B) rays that will be prevented from penetrating the top layer of skin, where burning occurs.

Sunscreens with SPF 15 already block 92 percent of UVB rays, while SPFs of 30 and 40 block 97 percent and 97.5 percent of UVB rays respectively, according to the National Cancer Institution. No sunscreen exists that blocks 100 percent of UVB rays.

It is important when choosing a sunscreen with your desired SPF value that it is “broad-spectrum,� meaning that it also protects from UVA rays. UVA rays penetrate lower layers of the skin and can cause aging effects such as wrinkles as well as increase the rate of melanoma. If your sunscreen does not protect against UVA rays, the lower layers of your skin are susceptible to damage. If worrying about SPF numbers is still too confusing, choosing a sunblock (physical sunscreen) containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide is another good option. These safe, inorganic compounds (organic compounds are found in biological systems, and inorganic compounds are viewed as being synthesized by the agency of geological systems) are capable of diffracting 100 percent of ultraviolet rays, though they spread on as a thick paste*.

As long as you use a broad-spectrum sunscreen or sunblock, you should be adequately protected when using an SPF of 30 or above if it is applied correctly. It is important to apply sunscreen generously to all exposed skin at least 30 minutes before you head out into the sun, continuing to reapply every two hours for maximum effectiveness. If you are swimming or sweating, apply more frequently.

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Illustration courtesy of cancer.gov *Disclaimer: There are some conflicting studies and opinions on the amount and type of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that are considered safe. This view represents the medical opinion of Dr. Mark Gimbel.

Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health

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August 2016 | greenliving

11

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BACKPACK BURDENS:

HELP YOUR CHILDREN LIFT THE

WEIGHT FROM THEIR SHOULDERS

BY DR. CAMERON CALL

H

ealthcare professionals agree that over-stuffed backpacks are not healthy for the human body. The problem starts at a young age, when children fill backpacks with books and various supplies for school and then tote that heavy load from DR. CAMERON CALL class to class.

In general, a backpack should weigh no more than 10 to 15 percent of a child’s total body weight. When overloaded or improperly fitted, backpacks often cause back, neck and shoulder pains, headaches, and other spinal discomforts that can lead to more chronic conditions. Though we often associate backpacks with children, we must not forget about teenagers, college students, and even adults or travelers who might wear backpacks improperly.

As your children head back to school, here are some tips that should be considered when choosing a backpack that is as minimally damaging to the spine as possible.

12 greenliving | August 2016

CHOOSE FUNCTION OVER FASHION. This particularly applies to the younger crowd, who may be apt to choose a backpack based solely on color or the latest trend.

MAKE SURE THE PACK FITS PROPERLY. The person who will be wearing the backpack should try it on to ensure a correct fit. The backpack should be snug against the back without sitting too high on the shoulder blades or falling below the waist. The lower a backpack hangs, the more weight the shoulders have to carry. Ideally, the backpack should hang two inches above the waist and have wide, padded, adjustable straps for a custom fit. Some backpacks feature a hip strap or built-in lumbar pillow, helping to distribute part of the weight from the back to the hips.

LOAD THE BAG PROPERLY. The heaviest items in the backpack should rest against the back. Load these items first, and do what you can to ensure that weight is evenly distributed. Make sure there is not a lot of excess weight on

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TAKE THE TIME TO FAMILIARIZE YOURSELF WITH PROPER BACKPACK USE SO YOUR CHILD DOES NOT SUFFER FROM UNNECESSARY PAIN. WHEN ISSUES DO ARISE, DON’T FORGET THAT HAVING A PROPER FUNCTIONING NERVOUS SYSTEM IS KEY WHEN HEALING FROM INJURY AND RESOLVING CHRONIC CONDITIONS.

one particular side. Do what you can to lighten the load by removing anything extra from the bag. Small items add up to unnecessary weight.

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CARRY THE BACKPACK CORRECTLY. A backpack should not be slung over one shoulder with one or both straps, worn upside down, or left unzipped. The only proper way to wear a backpack is to use both straps – one on each shoulder – with the backpack set against the lower back.

Res

LIFT THE BAG PROPERLY. When lifting anything of significant weight, remember to bend at the knees and use the legs to lift.

Following these guidelines is the first step in preventing injury that could lead to serious health conditions. Take the time to familiarize yourself with proper backpack use so your child does not suffer from unnecessary pain. When issues do arise, don’t forget that having a proper functioning nervous system is key when healing from injury and resolving chronic conditions.

Dr. Cameron Call is the clinic director of The Specific Chiropractic Center in Phoenix. His work focuses on helping individuals with chronic conditions who have not responded well to traditional healthcare. The work he does is also extremely beneficial to children.

Dr. Call may be reached at cameron@thespecific.com with further questions or comments.

Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health

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August 2016 | greenliving

13

HEALTH & WELLNESS

BY DR. PAUL A. PANNOZZO

M

ost think of swimming as just a way to cool off during Arizona summers, but did you know that swimming might also give you relief from chronic pain, injuries and other body ailments?

Swimming as therapy is becoming DR. PAUL A. PANNOZZO increasingly popular amongst the young and old alike, with classes popping up not just here in Arizona but across the country – and for good reasons.

According to the North American Journal of Medical Sciences, swimming or hydrotherapy has been proven to be beneficial for pain management in both children and adults. The reason: swimming (along with other forms of water exercises) defies gravity, meaning there aren’t any unpleasant and potentially damaging movements to the joints as commonly found with running or aerobic exercise.

Pain is often the result of weak muscles or injury. The water’s buoyancy allows for low-impact activity, relieving stress on joints and helping condition and strengthen muscles.

As an added benefit, it’s also a great way to release endorphins, creating a euphoric feeling, reducing pain, improving sleep, and boosting self-esteem.

Here are some quick and easy kid-friendly exercises that can be incorporated into your family’s next summer swim: WATER AEROBICS Not sure which workout is best for you? Many city pools and gyms now offer variations of water exercise classes for adults and kids to try. If you’re a beginner, start with water exercises like yoga or Ai Chi, which will use slow movements to help strengthen muscles, improve balance and joint flexibility, and help you focus on relaxation and controlled breathing. For kids, starting to incorporate regular swim sessions will not only improve overall health but also balance and posture.

14 greenliving | August 2016

WATER WALKING The most simple of the water exercises, water walking uses resistance to make muscles work harder to move. To ensure you or your loved one is receiving the best workout, make sure the water is at least waist deep, then take long strides around the pool. Routinely switch up your walking style (fast then slow) to work different muscles during your water exercise.

LAP SWIMMING If you’re a more advanced swimmer, consider water exercises like the forward or backward stroke. According to Bucknell University, water workouts provide 12 percent more resistance than when you work out on land, providing a better workout for your chest, shoulders and back. If that isn’t enough, similar to yoga, the water exercise also helps relax and elongate the body, resulting in increased flexibility. For kids, lap swimming can increase the heart rate and help prevent childhood obesity, which has been linked to juvenile diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

As always, before starting any type of pain treatment for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to speak with a doctor to determine which option is best. To learn more about pain treatment options, contact your doctor or a pain specialist near you.

Dr. Paul A. Pannozzo graduated from the Northeast Ohio Medical University College of Medicine in 1999. He specializes in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation and Pain Management. Dr. Pannozzo is affiliated with Chandler Regional Medical Center.

Find more health & wellness articles at greenlivingaz.com/health

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August 2016 | greenliving

15

ENVIRONMENT

CLIMATE CHANGE SERIES: GROUNDWATER PROTECTION KEY TO CLIMATE RESILIENCE IN COCHISE COUNTY

BY DAVID A. SCHALLER

S

panning more than four million aquifer. The San Pedro River relies primarily on groundwater acres in the southeast corner infiltration to maintain its status as one of the last free-flowing of Arizona, Cochise County rivers in the Southwest. Population centers like Sierra Vista, looks much the same as it did over Benson and Willcox – as well as smaller towns and isolated a century ago when Cochise led his ranches – depend solely on these ancient reserves for their Apache bands across the region. very existence. Already, isolated wells in spots like PearceOver the intervening years, a largely Sunsites are failing as newcomers increase withdrawals from DAVID A. SCHALLER rural economy has developed around declining aquifers. ranching and small scale agriculture.

There is a race underway for the county’s groundwater, The county receives sparse moisture, just 13 inches in a good and only those who can afford to drill deep will come out year. The future will be even drier. ahead. Existing well owners are at risk should some of the The Cochise Water Project in Sierra Vista is a nonmore extensive land development proposals go forward. governmental effort aiming to reduce groundwater use by Adding 70,000 thirsty newcomers to the tiny community of decreasing overall water consumption in both residential Benson (population 5,000), then pumping them water from a and commercial sectors. In its short history, the project has declining aquifer, appears a formula for crisis in a future with resulted in water savings of around 175 acre-feet. It will take diminishing groundwater recharge. Such a massive pumping continued vigilance to ensure that proposed groundwater scheme may even threaten the hydrology of Kartchner pumping schemes do not overwhelm the small, steady Caverns, a crown jewel in our State Parks system. progress like that being made by the Cochise Water Project.

As in many other Arizona counties, climate-driven drought Even without the stressors of climate change, there are nonthe past 17 years has already taken a wildfire toll in Cochise climate factors working to challenge life County. In 2011 the Horseshoe 2 fire as usual in this beautiful part of Arizona. became the fifth largest in Arizona history The recent expansion of industrial-scale when it burned 350 square miles; the agriculture, made possible by deep well same year, the Monument Fire burned drilling near places like Willcox, is helping through the Huachuca Mountains and to turn thousands of acres of arid landscape encroached on Sierra Vista before being green. Agriculture alone is pumping an halted. As the southwest desert heats up, estimated four acre-feet per year for every wildland fires will clearly be a feature of acre-foot of aquifer recharge. Meanwhile, the county’s climate future. the once abundant precipitation that Despite the challenges of dropping fed the Willcox aquifer can no longer aquifers, development pressures, wildland be counted on given climate warming, fires, and overall warming, concerned particularly with a shift from snow to rain Cochise County residents have galvanized during winter months. around several initiatives to turn matters The scene is repeated in Sierra Vista, in a more hopeful direction. The Cochise where planned residential development Water Project in Sierra Vista is a nonwould further dewater the regional governmental effort dedicated to the COCHISE COUNTY IS HIGHLIGHTED IN RED 16 greenliving | August 2016

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reduction of groundwater use by decreasing overall water consumption in both residential and commercial sectors.

In its short history, the project has resulted in water savings of around 175 acre-feet. It will take continued vigilance to ensure that proposed groundwater pumping schemes do not overwhelm the small, steady progress like that being made by the Cochise Water Project.

Elsewhere, the Upper San Pedro Partnership has committed to restoring surface flows in the San Pedro River ecosystem where withdrawals now exceed recharge by 5,000 acre-feet per year. Finding opportunities to treat stormwater in Sierra Vista as a source for recharge rather than runoff is among the solutions being explored.

Looking ahead, Cochise County’s best chance to stave off the worst effects of climate change is to avoid the selfinflicted damage that would come from rapid depletion of its remaining aquifers. The success of its climate adaptation options begins with not making the challenge of a water-short future any greater than it already is.

David Schaller is a retired environmental scientist living in Tucson where he writes on climate, water and energy security.

Water Basins Map courtesy of Arizona Department of Water Resources Read more environment articles at greenlivingaz.com/environment

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August 2016 | greenliving

17

A CLASSROOM VISIT TO BROOK’S ACADEMY GREENHOUSE AT ROOSEVELT SCHOOL DISTRICT, WHERE LOCAL VENDOR ARIZONA MICROGREENS IS LEASING SPACE TO GROW THEIR PRODUCE.

CONNECTING BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

BY ASHLEY SCHIMKE

A

s our teachers and students head back into the classroom, we pick up where we left off from last year and celebrate a new beginning. Refreshed, we begin again and look to use advances in technology, energy and solar to grab the interest ASHLEY SCHIMKE of our young learners. Agriculture education works to engage students using hands on learning, which includes innovations in technology and the power of reusable energy. There are several opportunities to learn from others and to connect with agencies and organizations working with schools on these topics. This school year, let’s focus our efforts to connect beyond the classroom.

For many years, the movement supporting agriculture education in Arizona has worked to build school gardens, train teachers on the industry of Arizona agriculture and offer teachers the resources necessary to bring agriculture into the classroom. Today, the number of agencies and organizations working with and for our schools around agriculture education has multiplied. Together we are seeing advancements in teacher resources for school gardening, which include online food safety training, increased training for school garden development and assistance for local foods entering the classroom through programs like the USDA Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Grant.

We are seeing our universities adopt schools for research around science, community development and curriculum that enhances behavior change, as seen in Arizona State University’s work with Brunson-Lee Elementary and their use of cyber-physical system technologies. Students create solutions based off of data collected from the internet and information collected from sensors placed in the garden about how well the garden is growing.

There are entities whose entire mission is to develop school gardens in disadvantaged areas of Arizona; this includes in large part our Native American communities.

In these community gardens, kitchens and all the needs of 18 greenliving | August 2016

a campus are powered by reusable energy like solar units, as seen at STAR Charter School in Luepp, Arizona. Food CorpsAZ members have assisted in the school’s mission to power themselves off-the-grid by using solar paneling to power everything from a vegetable drying room to charging alternators for back-up in case of emergency.

Many of these organizations are members of the Maricopa County Food System Coalition, a volunteer association of people who work in the industry or are interested in building a strong local food system. The coalition consists of key stakeholders of the food movement, from producers to community advocates that include state and local government, agencies and organizations that work on community programming, academic researchers and individuals who want to volunteer their time improving access to fresh, healthy and local food.

Key organizations involved in Agriculture Education include: the Arizona Department of Health Services, the University of Arizona College of Agriculture and Life Science’s Cooperative Extension, Arizona State University, Arizona Farm Bureau, Food Corps AZ and the Arizona Department of Education.

For more information, visit marcofoodcoalition.org.

Ashley Schimke is a program specialist for the Arizona Department of Education working to bring Arizona grown foods into school meal programs. She graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Dietetics at Arizona State University and is an active member of the Maricopa County Food System Coalition.

Read more articles about education at greenlivingaz.com/education

greenlivingaz.com

EDUCATION

SUPPORTING A VIBRANT AND

SUSTAINABLE FUTURE FOR ARIZONA

BY GABRIELLE HEBERT

A

rizona has a thriving and growing emphasis on sustainable living and building conscious lifestyles. Ensuring that the choices adults make today are carried into the future requires helping children understand the contributions GABRIELLE HEBERT they can make both now and as they grow into our workforce and become community leaders. We need our children to become environmentally literate citizens.

Environmentally literate citizens are able to both individually and collaboratively make informed decisions concerning the environment. They are also willing to act on these decisions to improve the wellbeing of other individuals and their local communities, as well as participate in civic life. Improving the wellbeing of people and communities means considering all spheres of sustainability: environment, economic and social.

Environmental education (EE) teaches children how to learn about and investigate their environment and emphasizes direct interactions with nature and outdoor learning environments.

Investing students in their own learning in context-specific settings cultivates responsibility and engagement, preparing students to address the challenges, adjustments and opportunities that will be present in their lives.

It’s important to ensure that all of Arizona’s students have equitable and regular access to EE – in the classroom, in outof-school settings, and at home.

Arizona Association for Environmental Education (AAEE) is leading an effort to develop a state environmental literacy

greenlivingaz.com

plan. The plan will foster a holistic approach to providing EE opportunities in schools through informal classroom institutions, more access to the outdoors, activities to create ongoing learning at home, and sustainability initiatives.

Ultimately, the framework will be used as a guide and collaboration tool for schools, districts and non-formal institutions interested in emphasizing EE in their teaching, as well as for businesses, legislators and community members to support their efforts.

In March 2016, an environmental literacy summit was held in several locations across the state to gather stakeholder input for the plan. Representatives from schools, learning institutions, government agencies and businesses came together to provide important perspectives on why a plan is needed, what should be included, and who was missing from the conversation. AAEE is currently working to further stakeholder input and broaden participation.

AAEE is also working to support access to high-quality environmental education by increasing the number of educators that utilize EE strategies and their overall efficacy.

An online certification program helps educators to strengthen their competency in EE as well as strengthen the networks that support EE across the state.

For more on the AAEE’s work, visit arizonaee.org.

Gabrielle Hebert is the Director of Education for the Phoenix Zoo, Arizona Center for Nature Conservation and is the co-chair of the Arizona Association for Environmental Education Environmental Literacy Working Group.

Read more articles about education at greenlivingaz.com/education

August 2016 | greenliving

19

GIVING BACK

BY WILLIAM JANHONEN

W

hen President Woodrow Wilson signed the National Park Service Act on August 25, 1916, I wonder if he envisioned that 100 years later the attendance would climb to 307.2 million visits, WILLIAM JANHONEN setting a record in 2015. Along with the millions of visitors were 221,000 volunteers who helped make the parks a continuing place to be enjoyed by young and old alike.

I personally have volunteered on several occasions, including a species extinction prevention program in Chincoteague Island, Virginia, where the wild horses roam.

I’ve set up a camera atop an enormous tree so kids could watch baby eagles at the Great Falls Discovery Center in Massachusetts, and I swam with the manatees at Homosassa Springs, Florida. Would you like to cruise on Lake Powell or give a tour in the Grand Canyon? All you have to do is show up and volunteer to work.

The best volunteers come with a general background and are willing to put in the effort. Those individuals can always find something that they can help with. No specific training is necessary to be a volunteer, and the various services have applications that try to match your personal background and desires with the work available. Some jobs involve a lot of contact, and some are utterly remote, such as jobs in the 77 million acres of wildlife refuge in Alaska.

One of the restrictions on volunteer opportunities is housing. Some areas may have limited housing for volunteers, with mobile homes, rustic cabins or simple tents. Those volunteers who have RVs or can provide their own camping equipment are very welcome.

Apache Sitgreaves National Forest has a Wilderness Ranger Program where volunteers promote proper camping techniques as well as provide backcountry contacts for campers. The Ranger Program also acts as eyes and ears for informing the park on needs and repairs to outlying areas. For companies

20 greenliving | August 2016

looking to promote teamwork and provide a “green” return, there is no better way than to send a group to help out.

There are several programs and groups that promote volunteering statewide. There are even programs that involve children, including the National Park Service program Kids in the Woods, which promotes hands-on learning for children.

Volunteers for Outdoor Arizona has been working to match volunteers’ interests with projects since 1999. Carla Olson, former deputy director (or “Jane-of-all-trades” as she prefers to be called) once told me, “Being part of nature in real time gives back to the volunteers as much as they give. Giving back accelerates your appreciation but it takes some effort.”

Spending time in the great outdoors helping our parks and forests could be the best investment of time you ever make, and the return on that investment may be memories of a lifetime. The websites for the national parks, national forests and wildlife refuges are listed at the end of this article. A list of all of the volunteer areas is available through the websites, and you should contact the regional office of your choice to discuss the programs. Some programs may include meals and housing, but most include transportation to remotes sites, training, and a variety of work options. Many states also offer regional volunteer programs and should also be considered.

William Janhonen is a National Instructor for NAHB, HERS Rater, LEED Accredited Professional and construction consultant. He was the LEED Project Administrator for the LEED for Commercial Interiors Project at Sikorsky Aircraft, which recently achieved LEED Gold certification.

Resources: Volunteering in America, volunteeringinamerica.gov/AZ US Fish and Wildlife Service, fws.gov/volunteers National Park Service, nps.gov/getinvolved/index.htm US Forest Service, fs.fed.us/fsjobs/ and click on “volunteers” Volunteers for Outdoor Arizona, voaz.org and outdoorvolunteer.org Arizona Environmental Organizations, eco-usa.net/orgs/az.shtml Kids in the Woods, fs.fed.us/r3/asnf/conservation Image courtesy of Volunteers for Outdoor Arizona Read more giving back articles at greenlivingaz.com/givingback

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

THE ARIZONA ENERGY SECTOR:

A CONTINUED STATE OF FLUX

BY CHRIS DAVEY, CO-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ARIZONA ENERGY CONSORTIUM AND MICHELLE DEBLASI, CO-CHAIR, ARIZONA ENERGY CONSORTIUM

A

s the U.S. contemplates its next change in leadership in the White House, the state of the energy sector in Arizona and nationwide remains in flux. The uncertainty created by the recent stay of the EPA’s Clean Power Plan by the U.S. Supreme Court leaves us guessing at the implications of the next set of never-ending regulations impacting the energy sector. What has not changed, however, is the need for finding common ground among the many interests that are impacted by the energy sector.

While solar energy remains abundant in Arizona, we have yet to capitalize on its economic growth potential. Storage technologies for the renewable sector are slowly improving, but not yet at a pace to keep up with traditional power supplies. The diversification of the energy sector needs to continue to provide greater security for the state’s economy that can more easily adjust to mandates such as the carbon emission reductions in the proposed Clean Power Plan.

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Finding common ground to resolve these issues is not a simple task, and the Arizona Energy Consortium (AEC) continues its focus on working with our members to create an attractive business environment that promotes development, while still protecting our valuable resources for a sustainable future. The AEC actively promotes collaboration in the industry for growth and retention of energy companies. We are in the process of updating the Arizona Energy Roadmap to continue our efforts to develop and implement an energy plan that works in the real world, and benefits both the providers and users of energy. The AEC views the presidential race, as well as other key races such as the Arizona Corporation Commission, as extremely important to issues impacting the energy sector. We will continue to act as both a resource and a forum for stakeholders to share their solutions to continue paving the future of Arizona’s energy sector.

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August 2016 | greenliving

21

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT

SRP CUSTOMER WINNING WITH SOLAR

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onserving electricity is second nature for SRP customer Jenn Holtzman. Since moving into her 2-story, 2600 square foot home 10 years ago, she has been — as she describes it — “obsessive compulsive” about managing her energy usage. But in spite of her continuous efforts, her SRP bills would often exceed $300 in the summer.

With an eye on reducing future electric bills, Jenn began researching solar. She was weighing the options when SRP implemented its E27 demand-based rate structure for new residential solar customers. While most consumers, and solar providers, decided these new demand fees rendered solar systems no longer financially feasible, Jenn was more determined than ever to find a solution.

She contacted Sun Valley Solar Solutions (SVSS) after hearing about the company’s innovative Solar with Demand Management Technology. “We contacted three different solar installers: one called and said they no longer service our provider area (SRP), one didn’t bother to call back, and Sun Valley Solar contacted us within one day,” explains Jenn. “They spent hours exploring my long-term financial goals, whether I planned to expand my electric usage in the future with things like a pool, and then spec’d a number of solar systems, each with a payback schedule, for me to consider.”

Jenn in Chandler dropped her temperature 5 degrees and her bill 60%!

Aside from treating her “like family,” Jenn was impressed by the SVSS demand management solution, which makes the ROI of a new solar system work even under the new SRP rate plan.

In short, through sophisticated software, the demand manager cycles her largest electric appliances on and off to keep demand peaks to a minimum.

Since going online in January 2016, Jenn has already seen her monthly SRP bill drop by as much as 60% in spite of a warmer and cloudier winter (which drove more A/C use, and lower solar output, than normal). And contrary to her obsessive power saving instincts, she’s actually spending less time worrying about big electric appliances and leaving that task to the demand manager. Perhaps even more noticeable is that she’s using MORE energy at times she wouldn’t have prior. “I now keep the A/C at 73 degrees all day and even put on a sweater at times!”

Jenn views her SVSS system as an investment that is already paying dividends in the form of lower monthly bills. And with electric rates continuing to increase, she knows the value of her investment will continue to rise. “When I retire, I want as few bills as possible, and by installing solar now while I’m still relatively young, I will have an asset that removes expenses when I’m older. Plus, I feel good knowing that I’m reducing my impact on the environment.”

If you’re an SRP customer and want to see how solar once again can make financial sense to you, contact SVSS today for a free, customized, solar energy consultation.

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August 2016 | greenliving

23

ENERGY SECTOR

ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM AT WASHINGTON ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DISTRICT

BY SUE PIERCE

W

ashington Elementary School District (WESD), located in northwest Phoenix and eastern Glendale, is the largest elementary school district in the state. The District has 32 school campuses and three support facilities, which equates to approximately three million square feet of space under roof.

The District serves a diverse population of 23,500 students, and has 28 of 32 campuses designated as Title I schools because of the large numbers of economically disadvantaged students and families in the attendance areas.

In 2008, with a depressed economy, lowering property tax values, and a reduction in state funds to support education, WESD launched an initiative to reduce energy use, and in turn pay fewer dollars to utility companies. As a result of its great success with its energy program, additional opportunities have come to the District.

24 greenliving | August 2016

A STRATEGY TO SAVE MONEY AND REDUCE ENERGY USE Energy is a big ticket item for WESD, and prior to the energy program, the District was spending over $5 million annually as a result of rising energy costs. In fact, utilities was – and still is – the District’s largest, controllable, non-personnel expenditure.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DoE) advertised that a school district could reduce energy use by over 10 percent just by changing behaviors. WESD decided to test this statistic.

In fall 2008, WESD launched an energy-behavior-management program to encourage staff and students to change habits and reduce energy use in buildings. The results at the end of 24 months were astounding: a reduction in electric energy usage of over 26 percent. This equates to a savings of approximately 17 million kilowatt hours (kWh)! You may ask the question: “What extra costs did the District incur to create this reduction?” The answer is none! Since the launch of the program, the District has continued to look for ways to reduce energy use and become more sustainable.

greenlivingaz.com

ENERGY SECTOR

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SOME HIGHLIGHTS OF THE LAST SEVEN YEARS INCLUDE: • WESD reduced its solid waste contract from $250,000 to $125,000.

• WESD earned approximately $80,000 by selling recycled goods that in the past were thrown in the trash.

• 25 WESD campuses qualified for ENERGY STAR Building Recognition one or more years since the District began participating in the program in FY 2009, with 9 qualifying every year.

• WESD was scheduled to take three “furlough days” to balance the budget during FY 2011. In November 2010, Superintendent Cook sent an email to all 3,200 staff stating that, because of the amazing work they had done reducing energy use in the schools and the savings that had resulted, the furlough days would be canceled.

• An outdoor water conservation pilot project was conducted at Washington Elementary School. Outside irrigation was reduced by 40 percent during the summer 2012 versus summer 2011. Water costs were reduced by $18,000.

• Solar thermal installations were constructed at Mountain View and Sunnyslope Schools. Solar is now heating all kitchen water.

• The Lookout Mountain Elementary School opened with many sustainable features. A closed-loop ground-source geothermal HVAC system was used in over 50 percent of the building and reduces electric use by over 30 percent. This was the first large geothermal installation in a K-12 school in the Phoenix area.

Washington Elementary School District continues to move ahead with its energy and sustainability program and with efforts to reduce operating costs within the District.

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Party with Purpose!

Each month we host a launch party to celebrate the newest issue. But, our parties aren’t just to promote the latest issue of Green Living -- they exist to promote community. From advertisers to readers, we love bringing together like-minded individuals to network as a sustainable community. Join us for a night of eco-conciousness, good conversation, and fun!

This month’s launch parties:

Thursday, August 4th, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Monark Premium Appliance Co. Tucson 3850 W Orange Grove Rd, Tucson, AZ 85741

Thursday, August 11th, 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Copenhagen Imports 2346 E Southern Ave, Tempe AZ 85282

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Meet and mingle with like-minded people in the green industry Enter to win eco-friendly door prizes Enjoy appetizers and drinks from local vendors Your conscious life

To learn more about these programs, please contact Sue Pierce at 480-773-0035 or sue@energyplanning.org.

Sue Pierce is the founder/CEO of Pierce Energy Planning.

See more energy sector articles at greenlivingaz.com/energysector

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M A G A Z I N E

For more information visit greenlivingaz.com/party & greenlivingaz.com/tucsonparty August 2016 | greenliving

25

LEADERSHIP

MEET IAIN HAMP, FOUNDER OF

PHOENIX COMMUNITY TOOLBANK

BY AMANDA HARVEY

I

t was all about being at the right place at the right time.

Iain Hamp, Assistant Vice President of Community Affairs for Wells Fargo, was on a trip to Charlotte, North Carolina, to assist with a large-scale volunteering project, when he first encountered ToolBank U.S.A. and Charlotte Community ToolBank. He was instantly inspired.

The ToolBank in Charlotte featured a tool lending program that gave charitable organizations year-round access to an inventory of tools and equipment. “My imagination started running and I wanted to do something like this, that’s a big deal and would be really transformative to the Phoenix area,” Hamp said about his decision to start Phoenix Community ToolBank in 2011.

When he returned home, Hamp called ToolBank U.S.A to begin the conversation about what starting a ToolBank in Arizona would look like. A month later, a survey was conducted in Phoenix to find out if a ToolBank would be supported in the area, said Hamp. Two hundred responses were required in the first month, and they received nearly double in that time frame. Nineteen other board members were found and brought in, money was raised, the nonprofit was created, and warehouse space was rented. Hamp was granted volunteer leave from Wells Fargo to get the ToolBank

26 greenliving | August 2016

off the ground, and Wells Fargo is still a strong corporate sponsor several years later.

Today, Phoenix Community ToolBank works as a lending library of good-quality tools for use with community and volunteering projects from small to massive. Hamp also points out the environmental impact of the sharing economy used in the ToolBank: “[There is] the reuse factor, and also a good portion of what is done with the tools is helping from an environmental perspective. Looking around the network, they are doing community gardens, park cleanups, and a lot of things that are going to encourage people to be out experiencing nature. Roughly a third of our projects innetwork are what you would label as environmental.”

In addition to his philanthropic nature and environmental enthusiasm, Hamp also has an impressive eco-friendly backyard at home, with a large garden and chickens. “I never really thought of myself though as having a green thumb,” said Hamp, crediting his wife Ginger for starting the garden.

“I’m not sure that I still do, yet. But I am pretty good at not killing things,” he joked.

Ginger and Iain converted their pool into a tree orchard after realizing they only used it a few times a year. There are now 16 deciduous and citrus trees in place of where the

greenlivingaz.com

LEADERSHIP

HAMP WAS AWARDED THE HON KACHINA VOLUNTEER AWARD FOR HIS WORK WITH THE TOOLBANK IN MAY 2016, ONE OF THE HIGHEST HONORS GIVEN IN THE VOLUNTEERING WORLD.

swimming pool was. “Between the citrus and the fruit that we planted, from January through May we’ve got a lot of our fruit bill covered by simply going into the backyard,” he said.

In addition to citrus, they also grow apples, peaches and apricots. Hamp said he was also inspired by Greg Peterson and the techniques used at the Urban Farm.

“I invite a different group of friends over each year to experience my backyard, because I want to show them that they can do this,” said Hamp. “None of the stuff I’ve done has broken the bank. It’s either cost neutral or the cost is worth the benefit that you get out of it.” In addition to the chicken coop and garden, the Hamp family also has three rain barrels, solar panels and a solar hot water heater.

Hamp was awarded the Hon Kachina Volunteer Award for his work with the ToolBank in May 2016, one of the highest honors given in the volunteering world. Since its inception in 1977, the program is designed to recognize the achievement of outstanding Arizona volunteers and to increase public awareness about volunteerism.

Hamp has recently stepped down from the Board of Directors of the Phoenix Community ToolBank but continues to be passionate about the nonprofit’s work and improving the local community.

For more on the Phoenix Community ToolBank, visit phoenixtoolbank.org.

Photos by Vince Alfaro.

Read more leadership articles at greenlivingaz.com/leadership

greenlivingaz.com

August 2016 | greenliving

27

TRANSPORTATION

GENERAL MOTORS DRIVES SUSTAINABILITY

LOCALLY AND GLOBALLY G

BY MICHAEL COHEN

eneral Motors (GM) is a truly global company.

Founded in Detroit in 1908, GM has grown into the world’s third leading manufacturer of motor vehicles by volume, with almost 400 facilities on six continents, and familiar brands like Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick and GMC under its umbrella. With such a global presence comes an equal measure of responsibility, which GM does not take lightly. The corporation and its director of sustainability, David Tulauskas, are striving every day for innovation in the crowded world of automotive companies.

It begins locally, “right at the plant floor,” Tulauskas says, by “appealing to the competitive nature of our business, and our plants and our employees.” GM gives every facility a scorecard that includes environmental metrics, and these create internal competition. Each facility must come up with a unique way of reducing its environmental impact based on the surrounding communities and infrastructure. Two Arizona facilities are great examples: The Arizona IT Center in Chandler harnesses the abundant solar power for nine percent of its monthly energy use and has received an ENERGY STAR rating from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). In Yuma, GM’s Desert Proving Ground operates all year, conducting hotweather tests in the summer and other tests requiring milder conditions in the winter. The Yuma facility also welcomes native wildlife, using strategically placed water troughs to keep the animals away from roads and buildings without displacing resources or habitat.

What is the result of these “grassroots-driven” innovative solutions? There are currently 131 GM facilities worldwide that send absolutely no waste to a landfill – an automotive industry benchmark. Tulauskas puts it this way: “Every time you take a bag of garbage to the curb or put it in a dumpster, that bag has more trash going to a landfill than our 131 facilities are sending in a year.”

The logical question, of course, is where does the waste go?

Some materials are upcycled, like the damaged Chevrolet Volt battery covers that now house endangered ducks in East Asia

28 greenliving | August 2016

rather than becoming scrap. Others are sent to companies who could better use them. Tulauskas describes a collaborative online materials marketplace akin to “an eBay or Craigslist for waste, where one company’s waste is another company’s treasure.” The key for GM, Tulauskas says, is to view waste as a resource with value, rather than a cost to be jettisoned.

The conscious use of waste doesn’t just include actual car parts either. A recently launched initiative called “Do Your Part” is in place at five GM facilities in Michigan. The aim of this “closed manufacturing loop” is to reuse the plastic from employee water bottles, turning them into everything from car parts to manufacturing filtration systems. GM has also partnered with the Detroit-based company Empowerment Plan, a nonprofit making coats that double as sleeping bags to be donated to the homeless.

The “Do Your Part” campaign allows for the reprocessing of some of the used water bottles into insulation for such coats.

ABOVE: THE YUMA FACILITY WELCOMES NATIVE WILDLIFE, INCLUDING COYOTE PUPS. RIGHT: GM HAS REUSED 1,600 SHIPPING CRATES FROM ITS ORION ASSEMBLY PLANT

BY TURNING THEM INTO RAISED BEDS FOR A SOUTHWEST DETROIT COMMUNITY GARDEN AND AN URBAN FARMING INITIATIVE SUPPORTING SOUP KITCHENS.

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TRANSPORTATION

GM GLOBAL MANAGER OF WASTE REDUCTION JOHN BRADBURN DEMONSTRATES THE CHEVROLET EQUINOX V6 ENGINE INSULATION MADE FROM USED WATER BOTTLES FROM SEVERAL GM FACILITIES.

With so many of these multifaceted initiatives in place worldwide, it can seem hard to keep track. Tulauskas admits to the challenge of “trying to work and collaborate with other businesses, with various forms of government – local, state, federal – [and] other GM partners” to achieve sustainable progress, but he emphasizes the optimism and “absolute consistency” GM ensures in all endeavors.

Sustainability goes hand in hand with company culture, and every innovation strategy, whether local or global, is aligned with GM’s key business priorities. Going green and making green are never mutually exclusive, and Tulauskas says a more conscious manufacturing process “just makes business sense.” Looking at GM’s impressive track record, it’s clear that he means it. From the Detroit plant floors to the Arizona deserts and beyond, wherever GM goes, sustainability never takes a backseat.

Read more in the GM Sustainability Report at gmsustainability.com.

Michael Cohen is an Arizona native who lives and writes in Tempe.

He enjoys traveling and considers reading an efficient method of doing so. Recently, he completed a degree in Creative Writing at Arizona State University.

Read more transportation articles at greenlivingaz.com/transportation

greenlivingaz.com

August 2016 | greenliving

29

BUSINESS PROFILE

CULTURE & CULTIVATION CULT COFFEE ROASTER IS ON THE RISE

BY MARY HAMEL

T

he word “cult” gets a bad Currently, Cult Coffee Roaster rap. However, when the is the only roasting company negative connotations are in Arizona to own this piece of taken away, the word cult simply green technology. describes a group of devoted In addition to the Loring supporters or fans. With this in roaster, when it comes to mind, Rick Grayson founded sustainability Schatz said his main Coffee Reserve Brands nearly 20 focus is on where the company years ago. With a background in buys its coffee beans. From small national foodservice distribution, family owned farms in Guatemala, Hans Schatz connected with Costa Rica and Vietnam, to big Grayson through a mutual plants and facilities in Nicaragua, business opportunity that led to Bolivia and Ethiopia, Cult Coffee him joining a new division of the receives the coffee beans at its company, Cult Coffee Roaster, as Phoenix location to be roasted, President and CEO. then ships to companies all over Operating in Phoenix, the the country. “We pay attention to Cult Coffee Roaster small who we resource from,” he said. warehouse facility is one of a “We buy from little farms and KELLY MCCAFFREY, COFFEE ARABICA SAVAN T, kind, providing high-quality keep them vibrant to keep making WITH THE BROW LIFTER NITRO COFFEE CART. coffee, teas, botanicals and more fantastic products.” to companies across the nation.

By working with these smaller Through new products and new brands, and at the hands of farms, Cult Coffee is creating positive business interactions as excellent leadership, Cult Coffee is on the rise. well as a devoted community of followers. The clients they sell So, what makes Cult Coffee Roaster so special? The answer is to are being wowed constantly by the company’s innovations, passion. With a 30+ year career in foodservice and leadership like its Brow Lifter nitro coffee cart that turns heads wherever positions, Schatz has an appetite for the food industry that is it goes. a culmination of his entire career. He brings hard work and Schatz has a passion for the food industry since “food and positive energy while working side by side with his employees drink connect people,” he said. And when it brings people to create some of the best coffee in the area. Loyalty is another together, from sitting down at the dinner table with family quality exemplified by the company, with some employees or grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend, powerful things having been there for more than a decade, such as Roastmaster can happen. Life should be lived side-by-side with others, by Chris Marsitto, who has been with them for 14 years. joining ideas and creating a better future. Cult Coffee Roaster Schatz takes coffee seriously, but he also takes the planet hopes to do just that. seriously. The Loring roasting machine, Cult’s pride and joy, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption For more on Cult Coffee Roaster, visit cultcoffeeroaster.com or email by up to 80 percent. The machine is incredibly efficient and cult@cultcoffeeroaster.com to book a tour. works just as well, if not better and faster, than other roasters.

Mary Hamel is a student at Southern New Hampshire University studying Not to mention it produces a mean cup of Joe. Despite its Creative Writing and English with a minor in Professional Writing. She high-end technology, this machine will likely never be the hopes to one day publish a novel and enjoys hiking, reading and exploring norm for coffee roasting companies. The reason? Price. new areas.

Although the benefits of owning a Loring machine are large in For more business profiles, go to greenlivingaz.com/bizprofile number, unfortunately so is the cost to purchase the device.

30 greenliving | August 2016

greenlivingaz.com

INNOVATION

ARIZONA STUDENTS DEVELOP ROLES AS STEM ADVOCATES

BY MARISA OSTOS

O

n July 18, 150 elected Chief Science Officers from across the state – ranging in age from 10 to 18 – stepped onto the Grand Canyon University campus for the Chief Science Officer Summer Institute. These students are some of the very first of the nation’s Chief Science Officers (CSOs) – students who have been chosen by their peers to serve as the “voice” of their school through a passion and advocacy for STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), both on and off campus.

During this three-day Institute, the CSOs attended over 20 sessions, facilitated by professional leaders from statewide businesses and organizations, including StateFarm, Intel, ITSA/PerfOpt, Honeywell, and Freeport-McMoRan Inc. Every one of these sessions helped to prepare the students for their roles as Chief Science Officers by allowing them the chance to foster and expand their STEM knowledge, while being given the opportunity to develop their professional workplace skills and learn how to become leaders and advocates of STEM for their school and community in the upcoming school year.

Each day, the CSOs were given a keynote presentation by top-notch business leaders. Trina Helquist of Orbital ATK, for example, gave the CSOs a first-hand look into the world of public relations, followed by an inspirational story of how each student held the ability to change someone’s life. Every business professional who attended the Summer Institute, whether as a keynote speaker, a session facilitator, or even a “Jedi Mentor” (a mentor of the CSOs for this upcoming school year), inspired and moved the

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students to truly take hold of what being a Chief Science Officer means.

The CSOs also had another special CSOS POSE WITH MEGAN SMITH, THE CHIEF opportunity at the TECHNOLOGY OFFICER OF THE UNITED STATES. Summer Institute.

Back in May, six of the CSOs were granted the chance to fly to Washington, D.C. and voice their thoughts for change in STEM education to leaders in the White House. Megan Smith, the Chief Technology Officer of the United States, is one of these leaders who spoke with the CSOs, sending their opinions and words of advice about STEM straight to President Obama.

Smith also flew down to Arizona to observe the 150 CSOs in action at their Summer Institute, visiting their sessions and engaging with them first-hand.

CSO Jaiden, an 8th grade student of Sierra Verde STEM Academy, sums up perfectly the problem that each Chief Science Officer will be working to solve both this year and beyond: “Becoming a CSO isn’t an easy job. So many of us wish to improve STEM in our communities, but the real question is, ‘How?’ How will we inspire kids? How will we show the greatness of STEM?” The CSOs will be searching for the answer to these questions in their pursuit of being stewards of the next generation.

For more information on the Chief Science Officer program, visit chiefscienceofficers.org.

Marisa Ostos is festival assistant director for the Arizona SciTech Festival.

Read more articles on innovation at greenlivingaz.com/innovation

August 2016 | greenliving

31

ARCHITECTURE

CALPORTLAND WINS TWO AWARDS

FOR SUSTAINABILITY

BY JON BRUN

O

n April 13, CalPortland was awarded a 2016 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year − Sustained Excellence Award. Steve Regis, senior vice president of Corporate Services for CalPortland, accepted the award from Carolyn Snyder, director of the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Climate Protection Partnerships Division in Washington, D.C. Since its inception in 1992, ENERGY STAR and its partners have helped to reduce the production of more than 2.4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.

“This is our twelfth consecutive year to receive this award,” said Allen Hamblen, CEO for CalPortland. “Saving money is a concern of every CEO and business. When you are able to show positive results, conserve energy, increase efficiencies and protect the environment in the process, everybody wins.”

Founded in 1891, Glendora, California-based CalPortland is a major producer of cement, ready-mixed concrete, aggregates, concrete products and asphalt in the western United States and Canada. The company operates Arizona’s largest cement plant in Rillito, just north of Tucson, and also provides construction materials in southern Arizona and the metropolitan Phoenix area.

On May 6 at the Wild Horse Pass Hotel & Casino in Chandler, CalPortland was presented another prestigious environmental award for sustainable use of concrete from the American Concrete Institute − Arizona Chapter’s “Exposing the Best in Concrete 2016.” The sustainability award was given for the Mariposa Land Port of Entry project and the use of pervious concrete that CalPortland designed and delivered.

Pervious concrete is a low-cost stormwater management

TOP: Pervious concrete parking lot at the Mariposa Land Port of Entry INSET, LEFT: Allen Hamblen, CEO, CalPortland, greets Karen Butler, EPA, during the ENERGY STAR Showcase in May at the CalPortland Cement Plant in Rillito.

32 greenliving | August 2016

system that provides a safe, durable traffic surface while often saving on land costs.

This project also received LEED Gold certification and was recognized at the USGBC Arizona 2016 Heavy Medals Award luncheon in February at the Phoenix Convention Center. The Mariposa Land Port of Entry at the Arizona-Mexico border is one of the busiest entry points into the country for produce. The LEED Gold-certified building was also recognized for solar hot water, advanced lighting, building automation systems, rainwater harvesting, and native species landscaping.

And, most recently, on May 25, more than 200 people attended the ENERGY STAR Showcase at the CalPortland Cement Plant in Rillito, including Karen Butler, LEED Green Associate, ENERGY STAR Commercial New Construction.

For more on CalPortland’s sustainability awards and practices, visit calportland.com.

Jon Brun is an Arizona writer.

Top and left inset photo courtesy of CalPortland. Right inset photo by EPA. Read more architecture articles at greenlivingaz.com/architecture INSET, RIGHT: Steve Regis, center, senior vice president of Corporate Services for CalPortland, accepts the 2016 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year award from Carolyn Snyder, director of EPA’s Climate Protection Partnerships Division in Washington, D.C., with other CalPortland members, left to right: Bill Jerald, Desirea Haggard, Doug Anderson, Bruce Shafer, Stephen Coppinger, Dave McElvain and Rich Walters Jr.

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August 2016 | greenliving

33

TRAVEL

SUSTAINING OUR

NATIONAL TREASURES

BY DAVID M. BROWN

O

n August 25, our National Park System (NPS) celebrates 100 years. Today, 412 areas are overseen by the NPS, including national parks, monuments, battlefields, military parks, historical parks, historic sites, lakeshores, DAVID M. BROWN seashores, recreation areas, scenic rivers and trails, and the White House.

Throughout the system, concessionaires contracted to provide lodging, tours and other amenities have established sustainable goals at the parks, with those in the West being strong green leaders. One corporate exemplar is Xanterra Parks & Resorts, a hospitality provider that maintains “A Softer Footprint” program to reduce environmental impact.

The program’s “four pillars” are: Use resources efficiently and effectively; build and operate sustainably; strive for zero waste; and provide guests with sustainable choices.

“LEAVE IT AS IT IS. MAN CANNOT IMPROVE ON IT; NOT A BIT. THE AGES HAVE BEEN AT WORK ON IT AND MAN CAN ONLY MAR IT.” —THEODORE ROOSEVELT AT THE GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM, MAY 6, 1903

34 greenliving | August 2016

THE LOBBY OF BRIGHT ANGEL LODGE AT THE GRAND CANYON SOUTH RIM.

“As we look forward to another 100 years of partnership with the NPS as stewards of these beautiful places where we operate, we will relentlessly continue to reduce our carbon footprint and invite our guests to join us leaving ‘a softer footprint,’” said Catherine Greener, vice president of sustainability for Xanterra.

Greener adds that the company has also set “Next 10” goals for the decade, with each property responsible for achieving these goals on site. The company manages seven park lodges, including those at Crater Lake, Glacier, Rocky Mountain and Yellowstone national parks, all with sustainability programs.

ABOVE AND BELOW SEA LEVEL: REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE Zion National Park Lodge in Springdale, Utah, has been a Xanterra sustainability leader, becoming the first park with an International Standards Organization (ISO)-certified Environmental Management System in 2000. Four years ago, the Zion team also achieved Green Seal Gold Certification (GS-33), becoming just the third such lodge in the country.

“To this day, it remains elusive, with only three additional hotels being able to achieve the same results,” said Emily Barajas, LEED G.A., sustainability manager for Zion Lodge.

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TRAVEL

SOLAR PANEL ARRAY AT THE DEATH VALLEY NATIONAL PARK FURNACE CREEK RESORT.

In California at Death Valley National Park, the 290-room Furnace Creek Resort has a solar facility with 5,740 solar panels, generating about two million kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity annually – about 30-35 percent of all energy demand for the facilities year round. At 214 feet below sea level, Death Valley often posts the highest temperatures in the country. “This saves 1,200 barrels of oil compared with fossil fuel-powered generation,” said Heather Willis, the resort’s sustainability director, “and we expect to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by more than two million pounds each year.”

THE GREEN CANYON In Arizona at the Grand Canyon South Rim, “Xanterra is engaged in environmental sustainability, encompassing everything we do from the food we serve to the initiatives we undertake to reduce energy, water and fuel usage, and solid waste to the landfill,” explained David Perkins, director of sustainability for Grand Canyon National Park Lodges.

“We kicked off 2016 with a third-party energy and water assessment that is helping us to target the best projects for energy and water conservation,” Perkins added. “Some of these projects are in the process of approval now, ranging from the simple such as shower head upgrades to the complex such as drain heat recovery and rainwater collection projects.”

Solid waste diversion is also an important component at the park, totaling 4.3 million pounds in 2015. “We recycle everything we can: mixed recyclables from guests and staff; but even non-traditional items like retired uniforms and linens, coffee pods (k-cups) from Keurig machines, scrap metal, bottle corks, housekeeping gloves and more,” explained Perkins.

Even the 148 famous Grand Canyon mules are involved in the waste diversion program. “Not only do our mules carry guests and supplies in and out of the canyon, they get to eat up the veterinarian-approved fruits and vegetables that come from food preparation areas in our restaurant kitchens,” Perkins said.

Plus, every year the sure-footed animals provide 1.5 million tons of manure for composting.

That’s serious recycling.

For more information on Xanterra Parks & Resorts, visit xanterra.com.

Brown is a Valley-based freelancer at azwriter.com.

Author photo by Rick Carter. Mule photo courtesy of Grand Canyon National Park Lodges. Other photos by Scott Temme, Xanterra.

Find more travel destinations at greenlivingaz.com/travel

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August 2016 | greenliving

35

GREEN KIDS

ECOGLEN: IMPROVING LIVES THROUGH PUBLIC BEAUTIFICATION

BY BRANDON CATOUR

E

coGlen means “ecology of the Valley,” and as such, its projects are designed to improve the human environment of Phoenix by beautifying public spaces. These improvements enhance the quality of life for residents, tourists and future BRANDON CATOUR generations. smallMatters Institute, an Arizona-based nonprofit organization, has created EcoGlen to fill a gap in the community. They aim to be a catalyst for environmental action by bringing more beauty into our lives in order to bolster morale and illustrate how a small step can create big change. smallMatters’ mission is to create and manage projects that demonstrate what happens when all of us are engaged in community change-making. By networking with existing businesses, nonprofit organizations, and credentialed educational institutions, smallMatters connects people to lifestyle and economic opportunities where they can make a difference. Improving our surroundings is an example of an opportunity that often goes unfunded and unfulfilled.

EcoGlen fills that gap.

Studies by the American Institutes for Research in 2005 showed that “schools that use outdoor classrooms and other forms of nature-based experiential education support significant gains in social studies, science, language arts and math.” In fact, studies continue to show that nature plays an important role

36 greenliving | August 2016

in early childhood development – socially, academically and in mental health, which can impact test scores. These proven results help EcoGlen pave the way for making positive change on school campuses both locally and nationally.

EcoGlen’s reach is vast, with projects ranging from public schools to apartment complexes and private businesses.

Currently, they are working with the Mesa Public Schools District and Roosevelt Elementary School District to better the lives of public school children by bringing more nature into their environment. From creating on-campus gardens to

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GREEN KIDS

monarkhome.com

Tucson / Scottsdale / Tempe

ECOGLEN HAS A MAJOR GOAL OF GETTING SOME FORM OF GARDEN IN EVERY PUBLIC SCHOOL IN MARICOPA COUNTY IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS, AN ACTION THAT WILL POSITIVELY BENEFIT HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF STUDENTS, PARENTS AND TEACHERS.

rescuing garden spaces that have gone dormant, the EcoGlen team seeks to integrate more nature and beauty into the entire campus, as well as engage students in their environment.

Beyond public schools, there are also plans to collaborate with owners of other public spaces such as small businesses and apartment complexes to improve the quality of life for all local residents – a goal based in the ideology that nature and beauty affect the way people act toward one another. In a 2015 issue of Bioscience, journalist Douglas Main states: “New research suggests nature can improve the degree to which people feel connected to and act favorable toward others, specifically their neighbors.” In this way, EcoGlen helps improve society as a whole. The ultimate goal is to grow into a nationally recognized program, shifting the current paradigm of education and public aesthetics across the nation.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? EcoGlen has a major goal of getting some form of garden in every public school in Maricopa County in the next five years, an action that will positively benefit hundreds of thousands of students, parents and teachers. In order to accomplish this goal, support is needed. This can come in the form of volunteers helping on-site; people donating resources such as potted plants, starter seeds and garden materials; business sponsorships; and also individual monetary donations to assist in widening their reach to affect more lives.

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For more information, visit ecoglen.com. If you would like to become part of the EcoGlen team, please contact Brandon Catour at brandon@smallmattersinstitute.com.

Brandon Catour is a graduate of ASU with a degree in Economic Sustainability. Brandon interned with smallMatters while attending college and is now employed full time as a Community Ambassador focusing on EcoGlen.

Find more green kids articles at greenlivingaz.com/greenkids

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Beautiful decor at Verde Dimora apartment homes.

Stephanie Funk of China Mist Tea giving out samples to thirsty guests!

July launch party Our editor, Amanda Harvey, and Mary Kurth of Arizona Smoke-Free Living, posing with her raffle prize: a bag of mixed nuts from Nutsack Foods.

One of our writers, David Brown, and Tim Larson, president of La Casa Builders, Scottsdale.

Thank you to everyone who attended our July issue launch party at the beautiful new eco-friendly Verde Dimora apartment community in Mesa! It was one of our most successful launch parties todate and we couldn’t have done it without you!

Don’t miss our upcoming parties: Thursday, August 4 at Monark WE RAISED OVER $250 FOR Premium Appliance Co. in Tucson PACKAGES FROM Thursday, August 11 at Copenhagen HOME NONPROFIT! Imports in Tempe Find more information and RSVP at greenlivingaz.com/tucsonparty and greenlivingaz.com/party

A big shout-out to our sponsors from the party: Host & Title Sponsor: Laura Hyneman, Deputy Director, Development and Sustainability Department for the City of Mesa.

Changing Your View Of The World

Sponsors: Aridus Wine Company, Arizona Smoke-Free Living, Artisan Food Guild, AZ Good Health Center, Beer Research Institute, Better Days Tower Garden, C-CAP Arizona, China Mist Tea, City of Mesa Environmental & Sustainability Division, DECCA Multi-Family Builders, Inc., Global Bikes, Leviton, Mamma Toledo’s Pies, Nut Sack Foods, Recycled City, Solar Pool Technologies Nonprofit Sponsor: Packages from Home

Electric vehicle charger made by Leviton.

Photography by Johanna Campbell

Cindy Smith, Director of Marketing and Business Development for Decca Multi-Family Builders, Inc.

Paul Cocuzza with UCP of Central Arizona was the winner of the 50/50 raffle and got to take home this handmade, upcycled piece of art made by a veteran.

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Sarah Perry, Director of Fundraising & Communications for Packages from Home nonprofit posing in the Verde Dimora Veteran’s Room.

Executive Chef Rick Morales and C-CAP Beyond the Kitchen Apprentice De’Jae Robeson whipping up delicious food in the Verde Dimora kitchen. Also helping at the event was C-CAP Beyond the Kitchen Apprentice Selena Rodriguez.

August 2016 | greenliving

39

SUMMER SALAD RECIPES

SEASONAL WATERMELON SALAD RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF SAUCE

SUMMER MEANS LONGER DAYS, warmer weather, and the return of Sauce’s Seasonal Watermelon Salad. Indulge in the flavors of summer with watermelon, feta cheese and jicama batons in a blend of arugula and spinach, all tossed in a white balsamic vinaigrette. Stop by Sauce for their summer sampler deal, available until August 31. Guests choose one salad, one pizza and two glasses of wine for $20.00.

INGREDIENTS: 1/4 cup watermelon, cut into cubes 1/8 cup red onion, julienned 1/8 cup jicama, cut into strips 1/2 cup spinach and arugula blend 3 Tbsp white balsamic vinaigrette 2 Tbsp feta cheese 1 Tbsp roasted pumpkin seeds

DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine watermelon, red onion, jicama, spinach and arugula blend, and vinaigrette in a mixing bowl.

Gently toss to combine.

2. Garnish salad with crumbled feta and pumpkin seeds. Enjoy!

KOHLRABI SALAD RECIPE AND IMAGE COURTESY OF STOCK & STABLE RESTAURANT

THIS LIGHT, UNIQUE SALAD from the new Stock & Stable restaurant in Central Phoenix is perfect for the summer season. With intriguing ingredients such as kohlrabi – a variety of cabbage – along with ricotta, watermelon, cherry tomatoes and endive leaves, it’s sure to invigorate your palate.

INGREDIENTS FOR SALAD: 5 kohlrabi, sliced thin 2 baby endive leaves 2 heirloom carrots, shaved 1 pint cherry tomatoes, cut in half 2 cups diced watermelon 1/2 cup ricotta cheese INGREDIENTS FOR DRESSING: 1 shallot, chopped 7 calabrian chilies, stem cut off 5 garlic cloves, minced 1/2 cup honey 1 cup red wine vinegar 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard 1 cup olive oil

40 greenliving | August 2016

DIRECTIONS: 1. Combine salad ingredients in a large bowl.

2. In a blender, combine all ingredients for the dressing except for olive oil.

Carefully start the blender and slowly drizzle in the oil. Cover and pulse until combined.

3. Pour desired amount of dressing over salad and enjoy!

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HEALTHY KID RECIPES

THESE TASTY, KID-TESTED recipes from Chef Jennifer Johnson of “Witnessing Nature in Food� are sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Find more of her recipes online at witnessingnature.net.

RECIPES AND IMAGES COURTESY OF JENNIFER JOHNSON

GLUTEN-FREE

EGGPLANT PARMESAN INGREDIENTS: 2 organic eggplants, sliced 1/4-inch thick Olive oil spray Salt and pepper 1 jar of organic tomato puree 1 cup shredded parmesan cheese 1 4-inch ball of Buffalo mozzarella, sliced 4 basil leaves, chopped DIRECTIONS: 1. Spray bottom of two cookie sheets with olive oil.

2. Cover the sheets with the sliced eggplant.

3. Spray the tops of the eggplant with the olive oil spray, then sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Cook at 350 degrees for 8-10 minutes on each side.

5. Remove from the oven. Once cooled, carefully remove the eggplant slices.

6. Spray the bottom of a 9-inch round pan with olive oil.

7. Layer the cooked eggplant in the pan.

Spread 1 Tbsp of sauce on each eggplant slice.

8. Sprinkle with salt, pepper and parmesan cheese.

9. Repeat until all eggplant is used.

10. On the top layer, spread more sauce, salt and pepper and parmesan cheese.

11. Place sliced Buffalo mozzarella and chopped basil on top.

12. Bake at 350 degrees until the cheese is bubbly and starting to brown.

13. Cool for 10 minutes and serve.

GLUTEN-FREE ALMOND CREAM FIG CAKE INGREDIENTS: 1 cup pasture-fed butter 1 cup raw sugar 4 eggs 1 cup almond flour Figs or seasonal fruit of your choice, for topping Coconut whipped cream DIRECTIONS: 1. Cream together the butter and sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

2. Add eggs one at a time and incorporate.

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3. Add the almond flour and mix.

4. Fill individual ramekins 1/2 to 2/3 full.

5. Top with figs or your choice of seasonal fruit.

6. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes or until top is golden brown.

7. Cool for 15 minutes and serve with coconut whipped cream.

For more recipes, visit greenlivingaz.com/recipes

August 2016 | greenliving

41

EVENTS

AUGUST 12

GREEN SCENES

is World Elephant Day!

AUGUST CALENDAR OF EVENTS

8/1-31 Desertscapes

8/6 7th Annual Dog Days of Summer

8/20-21 5th Annual Prickly Pear Festival

CENTRAL ARIZONA

August 1-31 DESERTSCAPES Tuesday to Saturday, 9:00 a.m.-4:45 p.m.

Pueblo Grande Museum 4619 E. Washington St., Phoenix Wayne Norton brings his stunning photographs of various Arizona landscapes to the Pueblo Grande Museum all month. Through the black and white photos in this exhibit, Norton hopes “to question Man’s treatment of the desert and our existence there.” $6.00 per person, members are free. pueblogrande.org

August 6 7TH ANNUAL DOG DAYS OF SUMMER 7:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.

Downtown Glendale, Murphy Park 5812 W. Glendale Ave., Glendale The Dog Days of Summer is the city’s annual canine celebration that offers pet owners and their dogs a fun-filled morning. Activities include the new Mighty Dog Days Doggie Obstacle Course, Doggie Olympics, demonstrations by the Glendale Police Department K9 Unit, free Frosty Paws, pet food & supply drive, low-cost immunization and micro-chipping, dog wash, watering stations and pet adoptions. visitglendale.com 42 greenliving | August 2016

August 11 GREEN LIVING AUGUST ISSUE LAUNCH PARTY 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m.

Copenhagen Imports 2346 E. Southern Ave., Tempe Help us celebrate the launch of our August issue at the beautiful Copenhagen Imports showroom in Tempe. Meet and mingle with likeminded people in the green industry, enter to win eco-friendly door prizes, and enjoy appetizers and drinks from local vendors. Donate to our 50/50 raffle benefiting the Arizona Center for Nature Conservation. Tickets are $12.00 online or $15.00 at the door. greenliving.com/party

August 20-21 5TH ANNUAL PRICKLY PEAR FESTIVAL Saturday: 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.

Sunday: 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Multiple locations in Superior Experience the fifth annual Prickly Pear Festival in Superior. This year’s theme is “Sustainability and Edibility of the Desert.” This two-day event will feature speakers and vendors spread across three venues; prickly pear food and wares; demonstrations on how to use prickly pear; lunchtime menus in the local restaurants featuring the fruit or the pad; food trucks; and an Edible Desert

Dinner and entertainment. Admission is free. Tickets for the specialty dinner and entertainment are $35.00. superiorazchamber.net

August 22-31 BACK-TO-SCHOOL CHILDREN’S WELLNESS EXAMS SCNM Medical Center 2164 E. Broadway Rd., Tempe Make this your child’s healthiest school year! The SCNM Medical Center will offer discounted prices for back-to-school exams August 22 through August 31. They screen for nutritional deficiencies and toxicities during a pediatrics wellness exam. Problems in these areas can lead to poor school performance. medcenter.scnm.edu

August 23 FILM SCREENING: “THE TRUE COST” 7:00 p.m.

Harkins Valley Art Theater 509 S. Mill Ave., Tempe Have a movie night and attend a free screening of “The True Cost.” In this groundbreaking documentary, director Andrew Morgan explores the impact the textile industry has on our environment. While admission to the film is free, filmgoers are encouraged to bring gently used clothes to donate to Helen’s Hope Chest, a Mesa nonprofit. sustainability.asu.edu greenlivingaz.com

EVENTS

AUGUST 13-21 is National Science Week!

8/5-28 Arizona Snowbowl’s Scenic Skyride

8/21 The Art of Brewing Your Own Kombucha

8/20-21 Arizona’s NPS Centennial Birthday Bash

NORTHERN ARIZONA

August 4-28 ARIZONA SNOWBOWL’S SCENIC SKYRIDE Sundays to Thursdays: 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Fridays: 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Arizona Snowbowl 9300 N. Snowbowl Rd., Flagstaff Enjoy the expansive scenery of northern Arizona by riding Arizona Snowbowl’s Scenic Chairlift. The three-passenger lift takes riders up the eastern side of the San Francisco Peaks to 11,500 feet in elevation. From there, visitors will have stunning views of the red rocks of Sedona and the walls of the Grand Canyon. Adults are $19.00, seniors $13.00. arizonasnowbowl.com

August 20-21 ARIZONA’S NPS CENTENNIAL BIRTHDAY BASH 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Flagstaff City Hall 211 W. Aspen Ave., Flagstaff This month, the National Park Service turns 100. Join the organization as it celebrates this milestone. During the event, visitors can chat with experts from one of Arizona’s 22 parks, take a guided bike tour around Flagstaff, and enjoy local food and performances.

Admission is free. nps.gov

August 21 THE ART OF BREWING YOUR OWN KOMBUCHA 3:30 p.m.

WHyld Ass Café 121 Birch Ave., Flagstaff This fun, experiential workshop explores the whys, how-tos and benefits of this DIY ancient elixir and helps save money. A delicious tastetesting, starter kit ($25.00 value), step-by-step instructions and numerous recipes for creating marvelous twists to your brew are included. Cost is $45.00.

Pre-registration is required by August 14 by calling 928-774-3523.

AUGUST 20

is National Honey Bee Day!

BUSINESS EVENTS

August 6

August 10

August 24

WMG PHOENIX POTLUCK BRUNCH AND 5 YEAR CELEBRATION

GREEN CHAMBER LUNCH AND LEARN

USGBC ARIZONA STATE CONFERENCE

9:00 a.m.-11:00 a.m.

Near 12th St. and Campbell Ave. Watershed Management Group is celebrating five years in the Phoenix area. Come learn about WMG’s current projects, network with co-op members and support the organization’s future work. WMG provides local communities with resources for sustainable livelihoods. Registration required. watershedmg.org

12:00 p.m.-1:30 p.m.

The Newton 300 W. Camelback Rd., Phoenix This month’s Green Chamber Lunch and Learn features Jon Kitchell and Lorenzo Perez, co-founders of Venue Companies, VenueProjects and VenueBuilders. They will discuss how to transform distressed spaces into vibrant places. Registration required.

The cost to attend is $20.00 for members and $30.00 for non-members. thegreenchamber.org

8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

Tempe Center for the Arts 700 W. Rio Salado Pkwy., Tempe Interested in learning about sustainable building? Join USGBC Arizona for its fifth annual state conference. Network with industry leaders, experts and professionals in the field. The conference will feature speakers and a showcase of green products and services.

Prices start at $50.00. usgbcaz.org

greenlivingaz.com

August 2016 | greenliving

43

EVENTS AUGUST 30

is International Whale Shark Day!

8/6 & 27 Moonlight Hike at Kartchner Caverns State Park

8/20 Batapalooza

8/22 Seasonal Changes of Desert Plants in the Krutch Garden

SOUTHERN ARIZONA

August 6 & 27 MOONLIGHT HIKE AT KARTCHNER CAVERNS STATE PARK 6:00 p.m.

Kartchner Caverns State Park 2980 Arizona 90, Benson Explore Kartchner Caverns State Park by moonlight. Park Rangers will offer a guided hike on the Foothills Loop Trail with a full moon in the distance. Visitors are encouraged to wear suitable clothing and bring water and a flashlight. $6.00 per vehicle entrance fee.

Email reservations@azstateparks.gov to make required reservation.

August 20 BATAPALOOZA 6:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

Agua Caliente Park 12325 E. Roger Rd., Tucson Spend an evening exploring the fascinating lives of bats through handson family fun activities. At sunset, look and listen for bats as they emerge to forage. Observe live bats up close as wildlife biologists from the Arizona Game and Fish Department catch and release bats as part of an ongoing study.

All ages welcome. Cost is free. webcms.pima.gov

August 22 SEASONAL CHANGES OF DESERT PLANTS IN THE KRUTCH GARDEN 9:00 a.m.

UA Campus Mall, Krutch Garden Near N. Country Club Rd. and E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson Tour the University of Arizona’s Joseph Wood Krutch Garden and learn about how the seasons affect plant and animal life cycles. The walk includes participation in Nature’s Notebook, where scientists study how environmental conditions affect plants and animals in different ecosystems. Don’t forget to bring a coffee mug to enjoy coffee from EXO Roasters.

Admission is free. Email lorianne@usanpn.org to RSVP.

For more events, visit greenlivingaz.com/events

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Environmental Consciousness Witnessing nature’s commitment to you, food and the environment

Jennifer Johnson | Office 480.813.9065 | Cell 602.625.5828 Jennifer@witnessingnature.net | witnessingnature.net 44 greenliving | August 2016

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G R E E N CHAMPIONS Each month we will feature three people – one each in northern, southern and central Arizona – who are making strides in the green community.

For our Back to School issue, we focus on influential educators across Arizona.

NORTHERN – BRUCE SANBORN, HEADMASTER OF ORME SCHOOL

Bruce Sanborn is the Headmaster of Orme School in Mayer, Arizona. The Orme School features academically challenging programs including AP courses, while participating in exceptional outdoor educational opportunities designed to build character, confidence, and a sense of community that reflect the historic roots of the western ranch school. Students round out their days participating in a cutting edge sustainability practice using a farm-totable method for meals, a composting pile to reduce waste, and lessons taught on natural pest control, holistic ranching and grazing practices and building garden beds for vegetables.

Sanborn previously worked as Assistant Head of School at West Nottingham Academy in Maryland. He studied at Holbart College, receiving a BA in History, Colgate University where he received an MAT in Social Studies, and University at Albany, receiving an MA in History.

CENTRAL – CHARLES BURKAM, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, DESERT MARIGOLD SCHOOL, WALDORF EDUCATION

Charles Burkam, J.D., has been involved with Waldorf education for nearly 40 years, and has been Director at Desert Marigold School (DMS) since 2010, which focuses on “Holistic education for the head, heart, and hands grounded by direct experience, presentation and practical work.” Previously a practicing attorney, Burkam turned to nonprofit and community management after serving as Mayor for Somersworth, NH. In 1986 he moved his family to England to study Anthroposophy and was Bursar at Michael Hall Steiner School for seven years, before becoming the Director of Finance & Development at Emerson College in Sussex, UK. While at Emerson, he assisted in the creation of a Biodynamic Community Farm Co-op. Burkam has consulted for the Biodynamic Farming and Gardening Association, the Santa Fe Waldorf School and was Managing Director of the Institute for Responsible Technology before coming to DMS. He is currently the Treasurer for the Alliance for Public Waldorf Education (APWE) and actively collaborates with the partner schools of the Arizona Council of Waldorf Education (ACWE). At present there are over 700 Waldorf elementary and secondary schools and countless kindergartens teaching students throughout the world.

SOUTHERN – JIM NELSON, TRANSPORTATION TECHNOLOGIES TEACHER/SPECIALIST, ANDRADA POLYTECHNIC HIGH SCHOOL

Jim Nelson is the pioneer teacher of an Alternative Energy course at Andrada Polytechnic High School in Tucson. Nelson has worked in the Vail School District for the past four years, and has recently spearheaded the new course, introducing students to Alternative Energy Technologies using cross curriculum, project-based learning. Most of the projects emphasize group work and cooperative learning. The class gives students the opportunity to explore different aspects of mechanics, engineering and machine working (welding, wood working, etc.) while focusing on sustainability. The hope is to turn the class into a Pathway, as one of Andrada’s eight different paths for students to choose to study. Nelson studied at Pima Community College and previously worked at Special Olympics Arizona.

Want to nominate someone as a Green Champion? Email your candidate to editor@greenlivingaz.com!

46 greenliving | August 2016

greenlivingaz.com

HE’S GREEN SHE’S GREEN LUNCHBOX SNACKS Product reviews by our eco-conscious couple John and Jennifer Burkhart Parenting sure isn’t for the faint of heart. There are a million and one things to do and keep track of, all while deprived of sleep. (So if our reviews don’t make sense, zzzzz.) Preparing healthy food can often take precious time, and a bit of convenience goes a long way.

When you’re prepping your little one’s lunches, picking a quick option doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice nutrition or organic foods.

Read on to see which lunchbox snacks to add to your cart during your next shopping trip.

LATE JULY | CLASSIC RICH CRACKERS, USDA ORGANIC HE SAID: These rich, buttery crackers are the chameleons of the snack world.

You can dress them up a million different ways: as mini sandwiches, mini pizzas, or even desserts. They are a bit heavy compared to Ritz crackers, but that’s a small price to pay for organic ingredients. It’s a good idea to keep a box of these on hand for any snack situation.

SHE SAID: These salty, buttery and crispy crackers are nostalgic snacks that bring me back to my childhood. The dense texture was surprisingly filling, but probably necessary to keep me from chowing through the entire box.

He gave it:

She gave it:

STONYFIELD | YOKIDS SQUEEZERS, CHERRY & BERRY, USDA ORGANIC HE SAID: Does anyone know why kids are more likely to eat food that’s in tube form? I sure don’t. These YoKids Squeezers are a great way to use that strange fact to your advantage. This delicious low-fat berry yogurt contains six live active probiotics. It makes a versatile snack, too – try freezing it for a frozen yogurt treat.

SHE SAID: Wow! I tried the “berry” flavor, which is a mix of strawberry and raspberry. It was smooth and creamy with an intense berrylicious flavor. Portability is a plus, as there’s no need for a spoon or bowl.

Perfect for the lunchbox or anywhere on the go.

He gave it:

She gave it:

CLIF KID | TWISTED FRUIT & VEGGIE ROPE, MANGO MANIA, USDA ORGANIC HE SAID: Here is another product that seems to over advertise and under deliver. Clif Kid adds just enough vegetable puree to these gummy snacks to put the word “veggie” on the front of the box, yet the nutrition info shows almost zero vitamin content. You would have no problem getting your kids to eat these mango-flavored treats, but do them a favor and buy real fruits and vegetables instead.

SHE SAID: This is another option of the “gummy” snacks that all kids want, but with the sneaky addition of carrots and sweet potatoes. These ropes were sweet and tart but had an odd grainy texture. The fun “peel apart” action will entertain the little ones, but be warned: you’ll be picking sticky bits out of your teeth for days.

He gave it:

She gave it:

FIELD DAY ORGANIC | DICED PEACHES AND PEARS, USDA ORGANIC HE SAID: I love the simplicity and portability of these fruit cups – just toss them in a lunchbox with a spoon. The fruit is nowhere near as tasty as the fresh variety, but sliced peaches and pears with no added sugar in a convenient pull-top cup is pretty handy.

SHE SAID: When you need a super convenient snack, these fruit cups are the way to go. No icky, thick syrup here, just pear juice. The peaches and pears are soft and sweet.

Nothing beats fresh fruit, but this will do in a pinch.

He gave it:

She gave it:

HONEST KIDS | FRUIT PUNCH, USDA ORGANIC HE SAID: It must be the dream of being an astronaut that makes juice from a laminated aluminum pouch taste better. These tasty fruit juice pouches totally brought out the wannabe astronaut in me. Low in sugar and high in flavor, I tasted mostly grape with a hint of watermelon. Serve this in a cold, zero-gravity room to complete the experience.

SHE SAID: If your kiddo enjoys drinking water, then this juice pouch will definitely be a hit. To me, it was like I drank 90 percent of my grape juice with ice, and this “fruit punch” is what was left at the bottom of my cup on a hot summer day.

Sour water would be another good description.

He gave it:

She gave it:

See more product reviews at greenlivingaz.com/hgsg greenlivingaz.com

August 2016 | greenliving

47

COOL OUTRAGEOUS

1

STUFF 2

Allnaturalcosmetics.com selectively chooses hundreds of natural and organic makeup and skincare products to feature on their convenient website, perfect for anyone looking for cruelty-free and hypoallergenic beauty options. The Earth’s Beauty mascara is made in a certified gluten-free lab using allnatural ingredients and is available in either Soft Black or Dark Cocoa. $8.95-$15.95 SPON SORED ALLNATURALCOSMETICS.COM

CLEVERMADE CRATE

Make storage a breeze with this rugged all-purpose utility crate from CleverMade.

Each crate holds up to 66 pounds and collapses to 2.8 inches tall for easy storage. With three color choices, it’s perfect for tools, toys or sporting equipment and fits nicely in the trunk of a car or in a storage space indoors. To clean, simply rinse out with water or wipe with a cloth. $15.99 CLEVERMADE.COM

LOCAL!

3

GLUTEN-FREE COSMETICS

ECO SNACKING ON THE GO

These reusable snack bags are an eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic baggies. Bumkins snack bags are great for any activity, including hiking, road trips, school lunches and picnics.

The best part: they are machine washable and dishwasher safe. The bags are lead, PVC, BPA and vinyl free, and they come in a variety of patterns. $6.95 per two-pack BUMKINS.COM

4

5

The Collagen Booster & Restoration Serum from Palmetto Derma helps anyone with aging skin to look and feel their best. Each product is certified organic, paraben and sulfate-free, and never tested on animals. An added bonus: a percentage of the company’s profits goes toward breast cancer research. $48.00 PALMETTODERMA.COM

POWER CHARGED

Save some money and help the environment with these rechargeable AA batteries from USB Cell. Flip open the green cap to reveal a USB Type A port that can be plugged into any electronic device that is USB enabled. Each package includes two batteries that can last up to 500 charge cycles. $21.39 USBCELL.COM

EDITOR’S PICK

SKIN CARE WITH A CAUSE

6

KIDDIE TOOLS

Ideal for little hands, this durable and reusable bamboo kids’ utensil set from To-Go Ware is BPA free and won’t stain or absorb odors. Plus, it comes in a convenient carrying pouch that is perfect for school lunches or road trips. This product is recommended for children 18 months and older. $9.99 TO-GOWARE.COM

Find more cool outrageous stuff at greenlivingaz.com/cos

48 greenliving | August 2016

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FOOD IS COMMUNITY. The Artisan Food Guild is a community based food network that celebrates great food and beverages, and the people who create them.

The AFG was designed to offer a social place to explore new food, new connections, and new business opportunities.

Mention Green Living magazine and receive a Fine Art Local Food calendar!

While supplies last.

ARTISAN FOOD GUILD COMMUNITY MARKET 2325 NORTH 7TH STREET • PHOENIX, ARIZONA 85006

MONDAY-FRIDAY 11AM-7PM • SATURDAY 9AM-5PM • SUNDAYS CLOSED 915-820-0472 • ARTISANFOODGUILD@GMAIL.COM

WWW.ARTISANFOODGUILD.COM /AFGCOMMUNITYMARKET

/ARTISANFOODGUILDPHX

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