This year, New Zealand is happy to be the first finalist from the Southern Hemisphere to make it to the US Department of Energy Solar Decathlon. As New Zealand sees the light of the sun everyday before the rest of the world, they have named the home the First Meridian Light House.

The design concept for the house was inspired by the traditional Kiwi bach, a New Zealand holiday home.

Kiwi culture places heavy value on socializing and being outdoors.  (more…)

The Finnish company, Suntrica has created a nicely compact solar charger for the iPod and iPhone. Attach the portable SolarStrap to your messenger bag, bike, belt or coat and it will charge itself while you go about your daily travels. You can then connect it to your iPod or iPhone (certified for iPhone4) when those energy-hogging gadgets need recharging.

The charger stores the solar energy it gathers on an internal battery for instantaneous later use. (more…)

We spend about a third of our lives sleeping, so we may as well be comfy. If your sheets are looking raggedy now may be a good time to save on fresh new organic bedding. Save 10% on pure organic sheets and duvets, use code FALL11FS at checkout. And through September 11, receive FREE shipping on orders of $100 or more @ gaiam.com. Sweet dreams.

Although there is no miracle cure that can completely stop aging from taking a toll on you, there still are some natural superfoods that can help you age gracefully, and look and feel youthful inside out. While you may not be able to be your sweet sixteen again, being proactive about anti-aging can definitely help you cut down one or two decades from your actual age.

Listed below are top 9 great superfoods that are marveled for their anti-aging properties:
1.  Blueberries – Any food rich in antioxidants is your best bet when it comes to anti-aging endeavors. They rebuild the damaged body cells and postpones the aging process. Blueberries enjoy the reputation of being the most antioxidant-rich food on Earth.

2.  Orange Juice – Kick-start your day with a glass of orange juice to reap the benefits of vitamin C, body beta, and other such elements of anti-aging contained in orange juice. It also serves as a great energy booster.

3.  Fish – A rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, fresh salmon is especially loaded with benefits for adults who wish to stay mentally quick with age.

4.  Green Tea – Green tea has been known to be associated with lowering the risk for breast cancer. The scientific justification suggests that green tea reduces the estrogen levels in the body, which otherwise increases the possibility of breast cancer. (more…)