solar-powered

It was 80 degrees last weekend (don’t shoot the messenger; it’s one of the perks of living in the South) and I spent some time relaxing on the patio. Cold glass of water in hand, I surveyed my surroundings: worn furniture and barren pots as far as the eye could see. Time for a patio makeover … and since I wrote a book about making green choices all year long I have no real excuses not to do it green. I’ve learned a lot about how to choose products that are green yet also practical and affordable.

It’s mid-December, and you’re still not sure what to get your sweetie? Try one of these green tech goodies.

Solar Gorilla, $250

Nothing heralds the start of summer like the long Memorial Day weekend. If you’re headed for the mountains or desert, to camp or hike or otherwise soak up late spring’s backcountry beauty, take a look at a few eco-minded travel gadgets to make your nature escape simpler and less impactful on whatever corner of the planet you’re off to. For that matter, some of these will serve you equally well in urban environments, too.