Merrimac News and Announcements

EarthTalk: Recession hurts green group efforts

Dear EarthTalk: Is it true that environmental non-profits have been hit hard by the economic downturn, and has this had an impact on their effectiveness? -- B.W.Non-profits of...

EarthTalk: Disposable paper products decimate forests

Dear EarthTalk: Are any major brands of disposable tissues, paper towels, napkins and toilet paper yet using recycled content and chlorine-free bleaching? -- S.C.Not many. In...

EarthTalk: Pesticides, fertilizers and water pollution

Dear EarthTalk: What effects do fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides used on residential lawns or on farms have on nearby water bodies like rivers, streams—or even the ocean...

EarthTalk: Green Power for Homes

Dear EarthTalk: I’d like to know the relative electricity cost of utility scale solar and wind plants versus rooftop residential solar. In other words, how can I know whether to...

EarthTalk: How "green" is Borax for housecleaning?

Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard so much about using Borax for green housecleaning.  But if this mineral has to be mined, doesn't that negate some of its...

EarthTalk: Green life lessons for youngsters

Dear EarthTalk: What are some things that children and families can do to be greener (and to provide life lessons for the kids in the process)? -- C.M.There are many ways to...

Winning the Real Estate Game in Fairfield in a Tough Market

EarthTalk: Cigarette litter

Dear EarthTalk: Has anyone ever studied the environmental impact of discarded cigarettes? I’m constantly appalled at the number of drivers I see pitching their butts out their...

EarthTalk: Green ways to keep groundhogs and others away

Dear EarthTalk: What would you recommend as a non-toxic/non-lethal way to keep squirrels, gophers and groundhogs away?   -- F.G.Keeping unwanted critters away can...

EarthTalk: Upgrading older appliances

Dear EarthTalk: I am considering upgrading some older appliances in my home. Where can I find information on which models are the most energy efficient?  -- J.D.There has...