We try to keep Green Living as apolitical as possible, reasoning that sustainable living must cut across boundaries of all kinds. The one area where we feel a strong stand is justified is with nuclear energy. No future for nukes until we solve the known safety and health issues from the past. This letter is from Amelia Shea, who, in addition for her volunteer work for the New England Coalition on Nuclear Pollution is Advertising Manager of Green Living Journal. -- Ed

This is the first in a series of articles by individuals who have, for the last 30 years or more, been actively engaged in building a more sustainable lifestyle for themselves and for their community. John Patterson, founder and owner of Mr. Sun Solar, has stepped up to the plate and volunteered to be our first "Pioneer" and share some of his thoughts with us.

In 1979, I put a solar water heating system on my home and was very impressed with how well it worked. I thought solar made good investment sense.

Information of interest in the Portland, Oregon region, Autumn 2009

Here's a sampling of the types of innovative structures that might be part of this year's National Tour of Green Buildings. Just think of the time, gas, and wear and tear that you will save by touring via the pages of Green Living Journal. 

removed at author's request