Posts Tagged ‘eco-news’
Wednesday, July 29th, 2009
Have some free time this Saturday, August 1st? (August already? Where did the summer go?!) The Active Transportation Alliance, formally the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation, is holding a free, 8-mile “Open Streets” event stretching from Logan Square to Little Village.
The event will run from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and feature a variety of activities, including music, art activities, children’s games, workout classes and much more. Even better: It’s a free event and there’s no registration, so you can join in at any point along the route! For more info, you can also call them at (312) 377-5727.
Check out this interesting video on the Open Streets initiative:
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-RP7Mve8Z8&rel=0&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1]
Tags: chicago, chicago events, chicago news, city of chicago, clean air, eco-news, green chicago
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Wednesday, May 6th, 2009
Grist recently released their list of “15 Green-Leaning Mayors”, and Chicago’s very own, Richard M. Daley, nabbed the fifth spot. They cite Daley’s green-roof program (the most extensive in the country), sustainable redevelopment & landscaping projects, and his emphasis on renewable energy as his strong points. The article also mentioned Chicago’s bid for the 2016 summer Olympics, stating that it “hinges on the event being the greenest Olympics in history.”
The four mayors that topped Daley are: Michael Bloomberg (New York City), Greg Nickels (Seattle), Gavin Newsom (San Francisco), and Ed Malloy (Fairfield, Indiana). While the list is hardly complete, it does give a good indication of the vast geographical diversity in local climate leadership today.
What do you think? Did Mayor Daley deserve the #5 spot?
Tags: chicago, chicago news, city of chicago, eco-news, green chicago
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Tuesday, April 28th, 2009
I-GO Car Sharing is proud to be a part of the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT), which on Tuesday, April 28, was one of only eight organizations around the world to be selected for the 2009 MacArthur Award for Creative & Effective Institutions.
“The MacArthur Foundation has a long history of supporting organizations around the world like these that demonstrate the creativity, drive, and vision to make the world more just and peaceful,” said MacArthur President Jonathan Fanton. “These organizations may be small but their impact is tremendous. From protecting human rights to improving urban neighborhoods to conserving biodiversity, they are blazing new paths and finding fresh solutions to some of our most difficult challenges.”
It was CNT—one of the country’s most venerable and innovative think tanks committed to urban sustainability issues—that originally launched I-GO Car Sharing in 2002. We remain closely attached to them to this day—both in terms of mission and literally: I-GO’s HQ is housed in the same LEED-certified-platinum office building in Wicker Park.
The accolades weren’t just from the MacArthur Foundation.
Illinois Governor Pat Quinn: “The Center for Neighborhood Technology is an innovative and creative organization that has maintained a strong focus on sustainability for over 30 years,” said Illinois Governor Pat Quinn. “The new technologies and ideas CNT has developed have kept Illinois at the forefront of green innovation, and this award is a fitting tribute.”
Sadhu Johnston, Chief Environmental Officer, City of Chicago: “Building a green city takes more than leadership from city government—it takes strong partners in the community. CNT has been and continues to be a valuable partner in the development and implementation of Chicago’s Climate Action Plan. Their in-depth analysis, along with their experience in implementing programs in transportation and energy, effectively demonstrate how and why cities are the solution to climate change.”
And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
We encourage everyone to read up on this remarkable, prescient organization that has been waaaaay ahead of the green curve since its founding three decades ago. Reinventing a “smart energy grid” for the nation may be the green topic du jour now. But CNT has been talking smart grid long before the greenwashing bandwagon hoppers grabbed ahold of those coattails.
Besides I-GO, they’ve created other green consumer programs:
- CNT Energy’s Power Smart Pricing helps residential consumers cut energy costs and reduce their peak energy use through hourly price signals. The plan was adopted by ComEd and other electricity providers in the Midwest.
- The Energy Savers program offers a one-stop shop for energy audits and loans to finance improvements that substantially reduce natural gas and electricity use in multifamily buildings. Reductions in energy consumption lower the operating costs of rental properties, keeping them affordable for the long term.
No doubt they’ll keep innovating for another 30 years and beyond.
Congratulations CNT!
Tags: awards, chicago news, cnt, eco-news, energy, i-go car sharing, macarthur foundation
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Sunday, April 26th, 2009
“The fact is, we already have a zero-emission, efficient, great way to get around and it’s called the bicycle and we just need to start providing for it,”
-Paul Steely White, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives
You’ve heard of car sharing but have you heard of bike sharing? There are already successful bike sharing programs in Paris, Barcelona, London, Stockholm, Milan, Berlin, Munich, Vienna & Copenhagen- to name just a few. Hopefully it is only a matter of time before bike sharing starts spreading throughout the U.S. as well!
Below you can listen to a very interesting interview on last Friday’s Brian Lehrer Show. Paul Steely White, Executive Director of Transportation Alternatives, discusses the possibility of introducing a bike sharing program in New York City.
Would you utilize a bike sharing service in Chicago? If not, why not? What would need to change in order to get you biking?
Tags: bike sharing, biking, eco-news, green living, green transportation, public transit, sustainable transportation
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Tuesday, April 21st, 2009
2nd Annual Auburn Gresham Earth Day Celebration
Thursday, April 23, 9am-noon
518 W. 79th
The Greater Auburn Gresham Development Corporation, in association with Alderman Latasha Thomas (17th Ward), and the Winneconna Lakes Improvement Association are hosting their 2nd Annual Earth Day Event to raise environmental awareness. I-GO reps will be there to demonstrate economical and environmental transportation alternatives.
University of Chicago Earth Fest
Friday, April 24, 11am-2pm
Rosenwald Building (Main Quad)
The Sustainability Council of the U of C is providing an opportunity for students and faculty to become acquainted with local business, organizations and other groups in Chicago. I-GO will be there spreading the good word. I-GO does not need any volunteer help for this event, but we’d love to see you if you’re in the area.
North Lake Shore Earth Day
Saturday, April 25, 9am-4:30pm
Loyola (Rogers Park Campus)
Loyola University Chicago and the communities of Andersonville, Edgewater, Ravenswood, Rogers Park, Uptown and West Ridge are hosting the 2nd North Lake Shore Earth day celebration. I-GO has been invited to help inform community members about global and local environmental issues such as clean air and energy alternatives, as well as practical, everday ways to green one’s home and business. I-GO is looking for a few volunteers to help staff this event. If you’d like to help out, please send Lauren an e-mail at lauren@igocars.org.
Tags: chicago car sharing, chicago events, eco-news, green living, i-go car sharing, i-go events
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Wednesday, March 11th, 2009
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently considering reversing a Bush administration decision which prevented California (along with 13 other states) from enacting stricter air-pollution standards for motor vehicles. This is great news, not only because of the positive environmental effects the stricter rules would bring about, but simply because it might actually happen!
California has been leading the fight to enact these stricter CO2 regulations for years now and has seen little help from the federal government. However, that was under the Bush administration. Things seem to be changing since Obama took office.
On January 21, California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger sent a letter to President Obama requesting that he review the EPA’s denial of California’s waiver request, stating, “California and a growing number of farsighted states have sought to enforce a common-sense policy to reduce global-warming pollution from passenger vehicles, which are the source of 20 percent of our nation’s greenhouse gas emissions. Regulation will not only reduce these emissions, but will also save drivers money and reduce our nation’s dependence on foriegn oil… Your administration has a unique opportunity to both support the pioneering leadership of these states and move America toward global leadership on addressing climate change.”
A mere five days after Governor Schwarzenegger sent this letter, President Obama directed federal regulators to review California’s and 13 other states’ request to set automobile emissions and fuel efficency standards. According to the Clean Air Act Section 209 – State Standards, the EPA must grant the waiver unless it finds that California:
-was arbitrary & capricious in its finding that its standards are, in the aggregate, at least as protective of public health and welfare as applicable federal standards;
-does not need such standards to meet compelling and extraordinary conditions; or
-has proposed standards not consistent with Section 202(a) of the Clean Air Act
The 13 other states joining California in this fight are: Arizona, Connecticut, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont and Washington.
Help make this happen – sign the petition urging the EPA to grant the waiver!
Tags: advocacy, automakers, Barack Obama, carbon footprint, cars, clean air, clean fuel, eco-news, emission standards, green cars, sustainable transportation
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Monday, March 9th, 2009
Americans took 10.7 billion trips on public transportation in 2008! This is a 4% increase over 2007 levels and also marks the highest level of ridership in 52 years, according to a report released by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA).
Ridership on all modes of public transportation increased in every quarter for the second year in a row. Light rail had the highest increase in annual ridership, growing by 8.3% in 2008, followed by commuter rail (4.7%), bus service (3.9%) and heavy rail (3.5%). Streetcars and trolleys are considered ‘light rail’, while subways are categorized as ‘heavily rail’.
Not only are more people taking public transportation, they are also driving less: Total vehicle miles traveled in the U.S. declined by 3.6% from 2007 levels. According to the APTA report, “This ridership record continues a long-term trend of ridership growth. Public transportation use is up 38% since 1995, a figure that is almost triple the growth rate of the population”. Not too shabby, huh?
Tags: eco-news, green living, green transportation, high-speed rail, mass transit, public transit, sustainable transportation; transportation
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Sunday, March 8th, 2009
As car sales continue to fall and gas prices remain above the $2/gallon mark, it seems like more and more people are taking up a common childhood activity – biking. Biking is a great way to get around the city- you don’t have to deal with parking, gas, tickets, insurance, or traffic – AND you get some exercise along the way!
If you’re thinking about buying a bike, check out the bamboo bikes from Calfee Design. Calfee Design claims that their bamboo bikes have the lowest carbon footprint of any bike on the market today. Moreover, Calfee Bamboo bikes have won awards for Best Road Bike, Best Off-Road Bike and Peoples’ Choice Award at the American Handmade Bicycle Show.
Tags: biking, eco-news, environment, green living, green transportation, living simply, sustainable transportation
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Monday, January 19th, 2009
According to a recent article in Japan Today, car sharing is catching on in Japan as well as here in the U.S.. The article claims that, “car sharing is shifting into a higher gear in Japan as people try to save on car maintenance costs and be more environmentally friendly at the same time,”.
While car sharing is growing, car sales are down. Vehicle sales in Japan hit a 28-year low in 2008, according to the figures released by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association (JADA). Annual sales are expected to fall again in 2009. “We never imagined sales would fall this badly,” said JADA Director, Takeshi Fushimi. “This is a bleak situation.”
What is a bleak situation for auto dealers is great news for Japanese car sharing organizations. According to a survey done by the Eco-Mo Foundation, there were 19 car sharing organizations in Japan, with a total of 522 cars being shared by 3,875 members, as of August 2008. The numbers of cars and car stations more than doubled and the number of registered car sharing members increased by half since the same survey was done in January of 2007. Below is a photo of a car sharing site at a condominium in Japan.
Tags: car sharing, cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living, living simply, transportation
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Friday, January 16th, 2009
That’s the world population of cars now, and it could double in the next 20 years. This is according to Daniel Sperling, author of the book Two Billion Cars: Driving Toward Sustainability. Sperling was interviewed yesterday on one of my favorite radio shows, Fresh Air.
It’s a really interesting conversation about the history of technology advancements and market forces that have influenced the makeup of the car population now, and how we might slow its growth and make electric, hybrid, and hydrogren vehicles take up a larger share in the future.
Car sharing gets a lot of love, of course, but some of his other answers are surprising. He points out the shortcoming of mass transit and promotes bike sharing, paratransit, and other ways to change what he terms “the transportation monoculture.”
You should take a listen, even if you’re not a policy wonk – these Big Picture questions address important facets of all our lives.
(AP photo via anthonares.net)
Tags: cars, eco-news, links
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Tuesday, January 13th, 2009
The auto blog Jalopnik has a ton of coverage from The Detroit Auto Show, where there have been a lot of hybrid cars introduced, including the 2010 Toyota Prius. At 50 MPG, the new Prius will be the most fuel-efficient vehicle available in the country. You can bet I-GO will be looking at the new Prius and other hybrids like the Honda Insight and Ford Fusion Hybrid to add to the already green fleet.
For photos (like this one) and news about new hybrid tech at the big auto show, check out Jalopnik’s full coverage.
Tags: cars, eco-news
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Tuesday, December 30th, 2008
Having a soiree this New Year’s Eve? I have some fun useful tips for you to make it green and eco-friendly. You can find the full list here, but here are a few fun ideas.
1 . Cut down on paper and use technology. Email invitations or call people to invite them to your party.
2. Get organized with your transportation. Encourage friends coming to the party to use public transportation or car pool to cut down on their driving.
3. Avoid the paper products and instead use real cutlery, glasses and dishes for the party. You will have dishes to wash but think of the garbage you’ll reduce. If you don’t have enough glasses borrow from a neighbor or check with local caterers who will rent out glassware at a reasonable cost.
And here’s another green tip for you…use I-GO to get all your New Year’s Eve goodies. Reserve your car today so you can load up on food and libations at your favorite haunts like Target, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s and Costco.
Happy New Year!
Tags: eco-news, green living, i-go car sharing, living simply, local food, tips
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Sunday, December 28th, 2008
Burbank Bus announced that they will be the first to put a plug-in hybrid fuel cell bus, the Proterra HFC35, into service. The Proterra can fully recharge in only 6 minutes (!) and can travel up to 250 miles before needing to be recharged. The bus has double the fuel economy of a diesel bus and releases nothing but water from the fuel exhaust. Moreover, the Proterra was created in this country (designed by Colorado-based Proterra) and uses power that is 100% derived from U.S. sources- meaning more energy independence for us. Burbank Bus plans to have the Proterra in operation within various routes by spring. Check out the full press release here. Wouldn’t it be cool to see these type of buses come to Chicago?
Tags: eco-news, green living, neat stuff, transportation
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Thursday, December 18th, 2008
This just in. President-elect Obama will name Illinois Congressman (and Republican) Ray LaHood as Transportation Secretary.
What does this mean for those of those who are interested in transportation issues, especially those related to the environment?
Well, no one really knows. While LaHood’s environmental record has been both scrutinized and criticized, he wins high points for his ability to work across the aisle to get things done.
Let us know what you think of Obama’s recent appointment and what issues you think LaHood should focus on first?
Tags: eco-news, transportation
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Sunday, December 14th, 2008
No doubt Obama will do more to advance a sustainable/green agenda than the current administration has- but just how “green” will the next administration be? Carol Browner is said to be Obama’s top choice for “Climate Czar”- dealing with environmental, energy and climate related matters. She previously served as Administrator of the EPA during the Clinton Administration. Check out these short clips to get an idea of where she’s coming from…
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oY3OkWNbels&hl=en&fs=1]
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2_TD-_ZN7-c&hl=en&fs=1]
Tags: eco-news, transportation
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Tuesday, December 9th, 2008
An electric car charging station was unveiled today in Tel Aviv – the system will be expanded and tested in Israel before coming to other countries like Denmark and Australia. Think these guys will come to Chicago any time soon?
Tags: eco-news, neat stuff
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Friday, December 5th, 2008
Will Barack Obama’s childhood island state become the first in the nation to fully support a transition to electric vehicles? The President-Elect has made it clear he plans to make sustainability and green-collar jobs top priorities during his administration. Now, Hawaii is attempting to lead the country in adopting use of all-electric vehicles. It’s a refreshing change of pace from the greed and lack of vision we’ve been witnessing on Capitol Hill as the Big Three automakers beg for a bail-out.
This past Tuesday, Hawaii announced plans to become the first state in the U.S. to create a statewide electric recharging network for electric cars. The Hawaiian state government has joined forces with Better Place, an ambitious start-up that I posted about earlier this year, in an effort to make all-electric vehicles a reality by building car charging and battery swapping stations around the islands and purchasing renewable energy from Hawaiian Electric Co., the state’s largest utility.
They plan to have the recharging stations up and running by 2011, and to have built 50,000 to 100,000 charging spots across the state by early 2012. Shai Agassi, Better Place’s founder and CEO, claims the electric cars will cost the same as gas powered cars — at first. However, over time, electric cars will be less expensive to make because they use far less parts than cars with internal combustion engines.
In late November, San Francisco and the surrounding Bay Area cities also announced plans to join forces with Better Place to create an electric recharging network by 2012. However, Better Place chose Hawaii as the first statewide rollout for several reasons: the size of the state, the contained environment and consistent climate the island offers, and the abundance of renewable energy resources, such as wind, solar, geothermal and wave power.
Here are two short clips: one of Agassi and Hawaiian Governor Linda Lingle driving one of the Better Place electric vehicles (hopefully, we’ll be seeing more of these cars in the near future), and one of Agassi answering a reporter’s questions about Better Place’s agenda for the Bay Area.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LH-FyvwsrEg&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1]
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cGD9aRC4Y5M&hl=en&fs=1]
Tags: cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living, green site, living simply, neat stuff, transportation
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Thursday, November 20th, 2008
I just found this list of Top 10 Ecolodges and Green Hotels at the website Independent Traveler. Back In The Day, an “ecolodge” would sound like some sort of hippie hostel in a log cabin where you sing songs about how great dirt is. Not now – check out Proximity Hotel in Greensboro, North Carolina:
Much of the hot water for the hotel and its restaurant is heated by 4,000 square feet of solar panels on the roof, and water-saving fixtures are used throughout the guestrooms and other facilities. Bikes are available for guests to ride on a nearby five-mile greenway.
Guestrooms may be green but they’re also luxurious, featuring 32-inch flat-panel TV’s, original artwork, complimentary Wi-Fi, large windows that allow plenty of natural light, and many other amenities.
No communing with your inner dirt diety there. Have you ever been to one of these eco-green-all-natural hotels or lodges? What was it like?
Tags: eco-news, green living, green site, neat stuff, places to go
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Friday, November 14th, 2008
There’s a rally/press conference this Sunday in support for The Illinois Clean Cars Act (HB3424), which would make Illinois the first Midwest state to adopt California vehicle emission standards for cars and light trucks. This from the Environmental Law and Policy Center:
- Passenger vehicles and light-duty trucks will be required to emit significantly reduced levels of volatile organic compounds, carbon monoxide, nitrous oxides, and other air pollutants including several carcinogenic air toxics
- Reduce global warming pollution from new cars by an average of 22% by 2012 and by average of 30 % by 2020 and slash air toxics by 13%-21% and reduce critical air pollutants by 5%-16% by 2030
- Apply to vehicles for the 2011 model-year and after
- The Secretary of State can prohibit the transfer of a new vehicle or vehicle engines if found to not be compliant with the vehicle emission standard
Sounds good to me – I-GO members won’t have to change any of their habits, except get used to breathing cleaner air.
The event is downtown at Federal Plaza at Dearborn and Adams this Sunday November 16 from 2-3pm. If you have any questions, email cleancarsillinois@gmail.com.
Tags: advocacy, chicago events, eco-news
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Friday, November 14th, 2008
In a new report unveiled by the Center for Neighborhood Technology, transportation leaders across the country are calling for an immediate and robust investment in public transit, high-speed and intercity rail, neighborhoods that are less car-dependent, more walkable and more affordable, and restoring the thousands of roads and bridges in failing condition across the United States. Funding these important projects has the potential to create millions of good, green jobs nationally, save Americans thousands of dollars per year, and reduce America’s dependence on oil once and for all.
What do you think the new Obama Administration should do to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil? Leave a comment and let us know what you think.
Tags: eco-news, transportation
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Thursday, October 16th, 2008
The Illinois Clean Cars Act is an important piece of legislation that will soon be voted on in Springfield. The act would require new cars sold in Illinois to have higher fuel efficiency standards, thus improving air quality and public health, while also reducing global warming pollution. This is Illinois’ opportunity to lead the Midwest in adopting standards that will require auto manufacturers to build cleaner cars. How will this benefit Illinois residents? Check out this interview with Joe Shacter, senior policy advocate at the Environmental Law & Policy Center.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tQOV6tHU8Lc&hl=en&fs=1]
To learn more about or take action on this bill, visit the Environmental Law & Policy Center’s website.
Tags: cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living
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Friday, October 10th, 2008
I-GO Car Sharing and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) announced today the launch of a joint smart card program that will allow individuals to use one card for both riding the CTA and accessing I-GO vehicles. There are currently 10 CTA locations with I-GO vehicles and plans to add 8 more. I-GO has 200 cars in 32 Chicago neighborhoods. The combined smart card program is expected to launch by the end of the year.
Tags: car sharing, chicago car sharing, chicago events, eco-news, gas prices, green living, i-go news, neat stuff
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Monday, September 29th, 2008
An article in today’s Chicago Sun-Times highlights the green strides being made at Chicago’s tallest building, the Sears Tower. The Sears Tower now has an I-GO Car Sharing vehicle (a Honda Civic hybrid) in its garage, available for both tenants and businesses. Additionally, they’ve also made three “courtesy bikes” available to tenants through an online reservation system, and quadrupled their indoor bike storage program—although, admittedly, that only brings the indoor storage count up to 49 bikes, a rather small allocation considering the building’s tenant population. Tom Dempsey, Sears Tower vice president and general manager, says they plan to add more courtesy bikes, along with bike locks and helmets.
Tags: car sharing, chicago car sharing, eco-news, green living, living simply
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Friday, September 26th, 2008
Check out this Canadian news report on car sharing in Canada. Car sharing is booming in Canada, just as it is in the U.S. and the rest of the world. In fact, the city of Tel Aviv also recently jumped on board with the car sharing concept.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXIHqHYUT_Q&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&fs=1]
I-GO is already partners with 2 car sharing organizations in Canada- AutoShare, in Toronto and Co-operative Auto, in Vancouver. This means that as an I-GO Car Sharing member, you can also drive AutoShare and Co-operative Auto’s cars when you’re in their respective cities- cool, huh?
Tags: car sharing, cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living, living simply, neat stuff
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Friday, September 26th, 2008
This morning I stumbled upon an interesting, detailed article on Bicing- the thriving bike sharing program in Barcelona. Earlier this month, I talked about the accretion of bike sharing across the globe. The more I learn about these successful bike sharing programs, the more I want this in Chicago! I mean, Mayor Daley did pledge to transform Chicago into the greenest city in the U.S…. What do you think? Would you utilize a bike sharing system if it came to Chicago?
Bicing Station in Barcelona
Tags: eco-news, gas prices, green living, living simply, neat stuff
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Wednesday, September 24th, 2008
The Mystik Krewe of Laff
I posted earlier this week about The Center for Neighborhood Technology’s 30th anniversary party and now I have pictures as well! Check out the photo album of the night’s festivities here.
Tags: chicago car sharing, chicago events, eco-news, green living, neat stuff
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Tuesday, September 23rd, 2008
This past weekend I finally got around to reading an article in WIRED’s September issue that a colleague had recommended. It was weighty subject matter for a Sunday, but I’m glad I did. The piece, headlined “Driven”, outlines visionary entrepreneur Shai Agassi’s audacious agenda to put electric cars on the road. It lays out a bold, yet totally believable, plan to transform personal transportation and help achieve global energy independence in our lifetime.
Agassi, a prominent Israeli-born software programmer who switched gears a few years ago to devote his energy toward solving the transportation emissions problem, is turning complex theory into exciting and optimistic reality. Agassi’s environmental engine was sparked in 2005 at a Young Global Leaders conference in Switzerland. Just three years later, he’s already got a country, millions of venture-capital dollars, and automakers on his assembly line.
Early on, the electric car became the focal point of Agassi’s plan. While the idea of electric vehicles is far from new, “Agassi reimagined the entire automotive ecosystem by proposing a new concept he called the Electric Recharge Grid Operator,” writes reporter Daniel Roth. “It was an unorthodox mashup of the automotive and mobile phone industries. Instead of gas stations on every corner, the ERGO would blanket a country with a network of ‘smart’ charge spots. Drivers could plug in anywhere, anytime, and would subscribe to a specific plan—unlimited miles, a maximum number of miles each month, or pay as you go—all for less than the equivalent cost for gas. They’d buy their car from the operator, who would offer steep discounts, perhaps even give the cars away. The profit would come from selling electricity”.
In May 2007, Agassi launched Project Better Place, the world’s first global electric-car grid operation. Since then, Agassi has been spreading his vision of Better Place on an international scale. In January 2008, Israel became the first nation in the world to declare a plan for oil independence by 2020. Partnering with Better Place and Renault-Nissan, Israel has committed to widespread deployment of an electric recharge grid to power electric vehicles by 2011. The renewable energy needed for such an operation will be supplied through Israel’s growing solar power sector.
Denmark also jumped on board, in March 2008, when DONG (Danish Oil & Natural Gas) energy company partnered with Better Place and Renault-Nissan to power electric vehicles with energy generated from wind turbines. Renault-Nissan is already developing the first line of battery-powered electric cars for Better Place.
Through Better Place, Agassi is ushering in a new chapter in sustainable, personal transportation. Better place your bets now.
Tags: cars, eco-news, gas prices, green living, green site, neat stuff
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Thursday, September 18th, 2008
The Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT)—the larger non-profit org that first conceived and rolled out I-GO Car Sharing in 2002—celebrated its 30th anniversary in style last night at Chicago’s Garfield Park Conservatory. The evening featured a lineup of eco-conscious speakers, including Sadhu Johnston- Chicago’s resident green guru, as well as a festive soundtrack furnished by the post-bop Patrick Mulcahy jazz quartet and a New Orleans-style Mardi Gras marching band.
The verdant landmark venue, designed in 1908 by legendary landscape architect Jens Jensen, is celebrating its own significant birthday this year—100 years of cultivating plants, folks—so the setting couldn’t have been more apropos. Garfield was green long before green was cool.
CNT is a creative think-and-do tank that focuses on issues related to climate change, energy, natural resources, and transportation and community development. Founded in 1978, it has been a leader in promoting more livable and sustainable urban communities, both in Chicago and around the country. I-GO is proud to be affiliated with CNT, and we wish them many more decades of successful innovation.
Tags: chi town rewards, chicago car sharing, eco-news, green living, green site, i-go events, i-go members, i-go news, links, living simply, neat stuff
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Tuesday, September 16th, 2008
I-GO had the honor of appearing at the University of Illinois’ Sustainability Roadshow this past weekend. The Sustainability Roadshow is made up of a group of environmental activists and educators who are traveling around the U.S. highlighting issues related to sustainability, with an emphasis on going local and renewable. I-GO participated in the event, along with other Chicago-based green businesses; there were booths on green education, sustainable clothing, toxic-free cleaning products, natural health and environmental activism.
The event had an interactive and informal feel to it, with live music and games. According to Zach Carson, co-founder of the event, they wanted to “bring in the circus vibe, the music. It’s education and entertainment”. Click here to check out a recent article on the roadshow from the the Chicago Flame, UIC’s school newspaper. Next up, the Sustainability Roadshow travels to Knoxville, New Orleans and Austin, TX.
Tags: chicago car sharing, eco-news, green living, i-go events, i-go news, living simply, local food, neat stuff
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Friday, September 12th, 2008
The weekend is once again upon us and I-GO is gearing up for a busy weekend around Chicago. If you swing by any of the events below, make sure to stop by our booth and say “hello”!
Edgewater GRalley Festival
September 13; 12-6pm
Corner of Glenwood & Granville
Event will feature 18 bands and a Battle of BBQs staffed by Chicago’s top culinary schools and restaurants competing in dueling pig roasts. Ecoscene, one of my favorite online eco sites, will also be there handing out organic lollipops and educating people about their great new website and newsletter.
Q101 Block Party
September 13-14; noon-6pm
3320 N Campbell
Come by the I-GO booth at Q101’s annual block party for $50 off the cost of membership and to pick up a copy of the second annual Audio Emissions cd.
DePaul University Involvement Fair
September 14; 1-5pm
2250 N Sheffield
Interested in learning more about I-GO Car Sharing? Ready to join I-GO? Visit us at DePaul University’s involvement fair to join I-GO for only $25!
Hope to see you around town this weekend!
Tags: chicago car sharing, contests, eco-news, green living, i-go events, i-go news, neat stuff
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Friday, September 5th, 2008
As I-GO members, you’re already familiar with the idea of car sharing. But what about bike sharing? Bike sharing is rapidly spreading in major cities and is also a concept that I-GO has been considering.
Barcelona, Paris, Stockholm, Vienna and Washington DC are the cities currently leading the pack in bike sharing. Paris has the largest bike sharing program of them all, with more than 20,000 bikes in service. Washington DC has the smallest operation, kicking off just last month with 10 stations and 120 bikes. An annual subscription to the SmartBike DC program costs only $40 and this fee includes rental of the bike; as long as the bike is returned within 24 hours of the start of the rental, there are no additional charges for use of the bikes.
Would you utilize a bike sharing service if it was offered in Chicago? Share your thoughts!
Tags: eco-news, gas prices, green living, living simply, neat stuff
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Friday, August 29th, 2008
Can you believe Labor Day weekend is already upon us? While I’m sad to see summer start to fade, we’ve got a bunch of great events going on in Chicago this September that I-GO is going to be a part of. So come on by and join us or- better yet- lend a hand and be an I-GO volunteer at one of the events and earn free driving credits! If you’re interested in volunteering, please email Sheena, our Outreach Coordinator, at sheena@igocars.org
SEPTEMBER EVENTS
Whole Foods Market Eco-Fair
September 6; 1-4pm
1111 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL
Join I-GO along with other sustainable organizations like Greener Cleaners, Twist Sponges and more to show Chicago how to green up!
Magellan Rewards “At Your Service” Festival
September 6; 11am-2pm
The Park at Lakeshore East
Magellan Development will showcase partner organizations
Boulevard Lakefront Tour
September 7; 1am-5pm
59th & Woodlawn
Choose from 15, 35, or 62 mile routes through the City’s parks, boulevards and neighborhoods. After the ride, cool down with live entertainment and a picnic lunch by Goose Island- with Goose Island beer and soda as well!
Sustainable Living Roadshow
September 12; 10am-6pm
UIC Campus
I-GO fits right in this eco-carnival, with experimental learning villages, workshops, speakers and entertainment
Edgewater GRalley Festival
September 13; 12-6pm
Corner of Glenwood & Granville
Event will feature 18 bands and a Battle of BBQs staffed by Chicago’s top culinary schools and restaurants competing in dueling pig roasts
Q101 Block Party
September 13-14; noon-6pm
3320 N Campbell
Lots and lots of bands!
DePaul University Involvement Fair
September 14; 1-5pm
2250 N Sheffield
University of Chicago Graduate School of Business Fair
September 15; 4:30-6pm
5807 S Woodlawn
Estrojam
September 23-27
I-GO Car Sharing is co-sponsoring Estrojam this year! Events will be held all over the city and proceeds will help fight human trafficking, domestic violence and sexual assult
Tags: chicago car sharing, contests, eco-news, green living, i-go events, i-go news, living simply, neat stuff, volunteering
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Thursday, August 21st, 2008
The car rental giant Hertz has just announced that they will be entering the car sharing market later this year. Rich Broome, Senior Vice President for Corporate Affairs and Communications, didn’t reveal many details but did confirm that Hertz would start the program in only a handful of major U.S. cities (I’m assuming that includes Chicago). U-Haul and Enterprise have also been testing out the hourly car rental market. Only time will tell if these car rental giants will become true competitors with the various independent car sharing organizations within the U.S
Tags: cars, chicago car sharing, eco-news
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Thursday, August 21st, 2008
Car sharing continues to spread through the country and is about to take hold in Vermont. CarShare Vermont recently launched their new website and will begin operations this September.
Similar to I-GO Car Sharing, CarShare Vermont will be a locally-run, non-for-profit car sharing organization (CSO). They plan to launch next month with 6 Burlington pod locations (see below map).
[googlemaps http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=111933241009612582250.0004533eb00068e5f2689&ll=44.4759,-73.21323&spn=0.021435,0.036478&output=embed&s=AARTsJrKRgvugQa09yY2D9SSNr8EAB2Q_g&w=425&h=350]
Tags: cars, eco-news, green living, green site
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Wednesday, August 20th, 2008
Zipcar is raising prices across the country- Chicago included! I’ve been working at I-GO since last September, in that time I’ve realized that there are a fair number of I-GO members who are also Zipcar members. So anybody with such dual membership will want to check out the Zipcar price increases.
Tags: chicago car sharing, eco-news, gas prices
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Wednesday, August 20th, 2008
The CTA Tattler recently reported on the growing partnership between I-GO Car Sharing and the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA). Recently, I also wrote a Motormouth post on the future of I-GO’s partnership with the CTA. Click here to check out the CTA Tattler posting.
Tags: cars, chicago car sharing, eco-news, i-go news
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Thursday, July 31st, 2008
Join I-GO Car Sharing at the Lincoln Square Garden Walk this Saturday, August 2nd. I-GO will be participating in the Green Fair portion of the walk, which will be held at Giddings Plaza on Lincoln Ave. The Green Fair includes info on composting, recycling, natural gardening treatments, tree health, neighborhood space, green building materials and environmentally-oriented organizations. In cooperation with the Lincoln Square Chamber of Commerce and Alderman Schulter, the Green Fair helps to highlight all the city is doing to beautify and protect the environment. I-GO will be at the event from 10 am to 5:30 pm Saturday, August 2nd.
[googlemaps http://maps.google.com/maps?q=Giddings+Plaza+,+chicago&ie=UTF8&oe=utf-8&client=firefox-a&ll=41.975891,-87.768145&spn=0.025333,0.055275&z=14&iwloc=addr&output=embed&s=AARTsJqgvL1mUsSmTFSCJ1hCtUlrEMBlmw&w=425&h=350]
Tags: chicago car sharing, eco-news, green living, i-go events
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Friday, July 25th, 2008
Forbes recently published an article listing the 10 most fuel efficient neighborhoods in the United States. Chicago’s own Logan Square came in 3rd in the nation! Brooklyn Heights (New York; $643/month) took top honors, followed by Koreatown (Los Angles; $658/month). Logan Square finished 3rd with the average Logan Square resident spending $742 per month on transportation costs. Sounds high, doesn’t it? It’s a good reminder of just how expensive owning a car really is! Arlington, VA (Washington D.C.) came in just behind Logan Square; in Arlington the average being spent on transportation costs is $747/month.
Tags: eco-news, gas prices, green living, neat stuff
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Tuesday, July 22nd, 2008
As I mentioned in a previous post, I-GO Car Sharing is releasing it’s 2nd Annual Audio Emissions CD this month. One of the talented bands to make the cut was Cobalt & the Hired Guns. This band not only talks the green talk, but actually walks the green walk. To check out a recent Chicago Sun Times article on the band and their eco-efforts, click here.
Tags: eco-news, green living, living simply, neat stuff
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Wednesday, July 9th, 2008
If you find yourself near a TV tonight at 9pm, be sure to check out the Fox News segment on I-GO Car Sharing.
Tags: chicago car sharing, eco-news, gas prices, i-go news, i-go stories
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Monday, July 7th, 2008
Membership in car sharing programs is on the rise across the country. Membership in I-GO Car Sharing is up 43% since June of last year. Check out the official CBS report below.
Remember- if you refer friends or family to I-GO Car Sharing and they become members, you will get $20 in driving credits. Happy driving!
Tags: chicago car sharing, eco-news, gas prices, green living, i-go news, living simply
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Thursday, June 26th, 2008
As you may already know, I-GO is partners with many of the independent car sharing organizations in the United States and Canada. This means that, as an I-GO member, you can sign up for a complimentary membership with any of our partnering organizations and share their cars while you’re there. Click here to see the full list of I-GO’s car sharing partners.
Just this week, a new car sharing organization was launched in Ithaca, New York. Click here to read more about Ithaca Carshare.
If you have taken advantage of our complimentary memberships with other car sharing organizations- or plan to- please post your experiences below.
Tags: cars, eco-news, green living, links, living simply
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Wednesday, May 21st, 2008
While working at I-GO Car Sharing I have had the pleasure of meeting a lot of our members- and let me tell you, we’ve got some interesting, involved and inspiring members! So, I have decided to interview a different I-GO member each month and post what I learn here, for all to enjoy.
Last week I interviewed I-GO member Jessa Brinkmeyer. Jessa started, runs and owns Pivot, Chicago’s 1st boutique devoted to eco-fashion. Last week we chatted by phone about her life at Pivot and how I-GO Car Sharing helps her get everything done.
When I asked Jessa why she opened Pivot and what she wanted to accomplish through the eco-boutique, she spoke of her desire to show people that they can have more conscious wardrobes without sacrificing fashion, style, personal taste or comfort.
Before opening Pivot, Jessa worked as a journalist at a small magazine in Chicago. She was primarily responsible for covering the fashion industry and soon became fascinated with the fast-growing, eco-friendly segment of the industry. Jessa wanted not only to wear the eco-friendly fabrics and support the sustainable designers herself, but also to spread the word. She was disappointed when she was unable to find anything like this in Chicago. After visiting eco-boutiques in New York City, Jessa realized that the best way to promote her passion was not through her writing but by opening the first ever eco-boutique in Chicago.
These days it seems like everyone is “going green” and it can be hard to tell who not only talks the talk but also walks the walk. Pivot definitely walks the green walk! All of the designers use sustainable and organic materials and low impact, eco-friendly dyes. All of Pivot’s fixtures were designed and built by local artist, Joshua Height, out of recycled materials. Indoor air quality at Pivot is improved by using zero-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint and they also use CFL lightbulbs. In an effort to give back to the Chicago community, Pivot donates 1% of its profits to Growing Home, a local organization that provides job training and employment opportunities within the context of a non-profit organic agriculture business.
Jessa’s environmental awareness was also what led her to car sharing in Chicago. She specifically likes I-GO Car Sharing because we’re a non-profit and use only hybrids and low-emission vehicles. Jessa uses I-GO to take her recycling to a sorting center and to take old light bulbs and batteries to a hazardous waste center. She also uses I-GO for grocery trips and for checking out urban farm sites and events for Growing Home. Jessa sees I-GO as a great way to get things done a little more efficiently without having the burden of car ownership or contributing to the greenhouse gas problem.
To learn more about Pivot, check out their website, or swing by the store. Pivot is located at 1101 W Fulton Market.
Tags: eco-news, green living, i-go stories, neat stuff
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Tuesday, May 6th, 2008
Green Fest is taking place May 17th and 18th at Navy Pier and I-GO is proud to be attending for the 2nd year in a row! Come check out the I-GO booth and receive sign-up promo codes, play games, meet the I-GO staff and learn more about Chicago’s only non-profit car sharing organization. We’ll be there from 10 am to 8 pm Saturday and 11 am to 6 pm Sunday.
The Green Fest showcases 350 + local and national green businesses and more than 150 speakers presenting panel discussions, presentations and main stage speaking events. Find eco-friendly, fair trade and sustainable products. Green Fest also features great how-to workshops, green films, a yoga and movement classes, kids’ zone, delicious organic beer, wine and cuisine and live music.
So head on down to Navy Pier May 17-18th and check out the Green Fest!
Tags: eco-news, i-go news, neat stuff
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Thursday, April 24th, 2008
So far all of my posts have been related to what’s going on here at I-GO. That seems to make sense, since this is the official I-GO blog. However, I know that I-GO members have at least a few other sides to their personalities and may be interested in things other than I-GO (gasp!)…
Most members also seem to be quite eco-conscious. Therefore, I thought it might be worthwhile for me to update members on new environmental trends.
I know I try to reduce my environmental impact through a combination of recycling, driving very little, buying organic and reusing, reusing, reusing! Another key way to reduce your footprint is by buying locally grown food. Only problem is- where do you go to find such food? Problem- did I say problem? Well, problem no more- introducing: LocalHarvest. 
LocalHarvest is America’s #1 organic and local food website. They maintain a nationwide directory of small farms, farmers markets and other local food sources. Their search engine helps people find products from family farms and local sources of sustainably grown food. Click here to check out their website.
Make sure to post below and share with me your methods and tricks for reducing your environmental impact. What do you do to lessen your footprint?
Tags: eco-news, green site, local food
Posted in Motormouth | 4 Comments »
