Sustainable living is a life choice that is becoming an integral thread in the (organic!) fabric of our region.
Now there's a roadmap to the lifestyle. Megan Cook and Corinne Bechtel, two enterprising women who love Pittsburgh, have published a colorful paperback on earth-friendly living.
EcoCents: Pittsburgh's Green Guide 2010 offers a comprehensive look at everything from car-free survival in the city to farmer's markets, public transportation maps, bus routes to yoga classes, big fat green wedding planning and more than $1000 in coupons to environmentally conscious businesses and restaurants.
"Our main goal is to jumpstart people on a path to greener living," explains Cook, who also works fulltime as the supervisor for the Pittsburgh Public Market. "It's about celebrating Pittsburgh and supporting our community by putting our dollars to work locally."
The duo went to work last year compiling the information with the help of private funding. The enthusiasm of the community was infectious, Cook says. Bike shops, alternative health and wellness centers, solar panel installers were eager to participate.
More than a coupon book, EcoCents is a demonstration of the blossoming local green economy here. It's designed to strengthen these businesses by increasing their visibility, Cook says. It also includes information on organizations and non-profits that are focused on green community building activities. EcoCents plans to update the information and publish the guide annually.
EcoCents, printed on post consumer waste paper with soy inks, can be purchased
online for $20.
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Deb SmitSource: Megan Cook, EcoCents