The Monthly Newsletter of greenlight magazine

Ready or not, spring is here. And our thoughts turn to used sneakers, the mightiest energy source of them all, award-winning movies, salmon, chocolates, and more. The green universe is huge and multi-faceted. So many ways to mess up the world. So many ways to make it better. Read on to see how you can make a difference.

—Bill Marken, editor in chief, greenlight magazine

In this issue:

• How far solar has come
• Oscars getting greener
• Where can I recycle sneakers?
• One Green Step at a Time

Almost — according to LiveScience.com. Famed futurist and inventor Ray Kurzweil, along with a leading panel of engineers, predicts that within 20 years solar will produce most of the energy we need. Given that the sun contains 10,000 times the energy that humans consume yearly this is a prediction we can get behind. Is it possible that solar can grow from producing 1% of the world’s energy in just two decades? Here are a few other predictions that Kurzweil accurately nailed: the explosive growth of the Internet, the common availability of wireless access and the fall of the USSR.  While some of his ideas may seem unbelievable, we sure hope he’s on target about this one. See the story and let us know what you think.

We were thrilled that Tilda Swinton picked up a Best Supporting Actress award for her portrayal of an amoral corporate lawyer covering up environmental wrongdoing in Michael Clayton at this year’s Academy Awards. Of course, this isn’t the first time that the environment or corporate irresponsibility has been used in a storyline. Let’s not forget Day After Tomorrow, Safe, The Constant Gardener, and these 10 picks from the greenlight vaults. Did we miss one of your favorites? Let us know!

Last year, Oscar made press with the launch of their "go green" efforts. Although not as hyped this year, the greening process continued at the 80th annual celebration. Oscar switched to Seventh Generation recycled toilet paper and cleaning supplies; at least 75 celebs and presenters arrived at the red carpet in fuel cell powered hybrid GMC Yukons, and all the electricity used during the event was recycled wind power provided with assistance from L.A. Water and Power.

Q: Where can I recycle my old sneakers for use again?
— Eileen

A: Unlike a fine pair of dress shoes, which hold out the promise (at least) of being well-cared for and re-soled over and over while the uppers acquire a venerable and priceless patina, the athletic shoe is inherently disposable. Once the tread is worn down, so too has the shoe come to the end of the road.

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At the NBA all-star game, Steve Nash demonstrated basketball shoes made from recycled manufacturing waste.

New book for children: My Bag and Me, by Karen Farmer (includes a reusable shopping bag).

College students are embracing green. Find out where at E – The Environmental Magazine.

Buffalo Exchange is now in 35 locations nationwide. Buy, sell, and trade new and recycled clothing.

Newsflash: The annual Pacific wild salmon catch may be cancelled this year. Northwestern Indian tribes are trying to help the salmon, says Plenty Magazine.

Green Videos

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Editor's Picks

How green is your bamboo shirt?

More and more organic chocolate…

Getting a handle on the complex subject of biofuels.

10 ways to protect against water pollution.

Time to consider composting, rain barrels, chipper shredders and other greener gardening accessories? Check out Green Culture.

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