Looking for resources for completing a green remodel or green construction? Before you get your tool belt and hammer, check out these websites, which feature information on green building techniques and environmentally friendly construction materials:

BuildingGreen.Com: Building Green features information and news on green construction and green building materials. Their website includes an extensive list, searchable by category, on environmentally friendly products which includes everything from green decking materials to non-toxic paints, interior trim and roofing.

Environmental Protection Agency: The EPA’s website offers quite a lot of free information for green building and green remodeling, including how to reduce indoor air pollution, and how to improve water efficiency in new construction. In addition, the EPA lists state and federal funding sources for green building grants and incentives.

Green Home Guide: An extension of the US Green Building Council, this website offers free guidelines for green home renovations, green product lists, and green building case studies via PDF download. In addition, you’ll find current environmental news and reports.

The other day my daughter received a much-anticipated package in the mail, a butterfly house and live caterpillars we ordered from a TV commercial. Along with the product, we found a note instructing us to “check out” the organic shipping peanuts in the box. The note even suggested putting the packing peanuts in the sink to watch them disappear. So, we couldn’t resist. We tossed a few in the sink, turned on the water, and they were gone almost instantly.

After doing a little research on these organic packing peanuts, I learned that they are made of cornstarch and are quickly becoming a popular choice in packing materials. According to Uline.Com, cornstarch packing peanuts dispense just as any other packing peanut, are water soluble, and are approved by the FDA.

Although my daughter has had a great time learning all about metamorphosis with her new butterfly house, I have to admit that we all enjoyed squishing and dissolving the organic cornstarch packing peanuts that came in the box! The next time you receive a package, check the box for a note about organic packing peanuts or toss a few peanuts in the sink to see if they dissolve.

Another cool eco-piece from Visionary. The Rattan Chair is as fun and leisurely inside as it is outside. Sink into its soporific wonders for a tea and Sunday paper. Handmade in India, $ 364.95

Thanks to Design Bitch, I discovered another green boutique in LA. It’s called Visionary and is located in West Hollywood. They carry a variety of green products for the home and organic clothing. These stylish and eco-friendly Bambu Reusable Plates and cutlery sold at Visionary are a great paper plate replacement, especially now that it’s BBQ season.

Visionary
8568 1/2 Melrose Avenue
West Hollywood,CA 90069
310-659-1177

The clothing brand Rogan recently branched out into furniture. Their minimalist new line consists of tables, chairs and lighting and can be seen on a separate website: Rogan Objects. The simplicity of design, combined with natural colors and textures, is reminiscent of their clothing pieces. And the best part about Rogan Objects is that they are constructed from recycled industrial materials and treated at an environmentally low-impact tannery . The purity of form and rugged finish keeps in the spirit of their concept and charms you into the timeless world of relaxed casual American ruggedness. I’m personally a fan of this steel and bull hide square chair with ottoman. Looks like a cozy Sunday paper seat.