The Best Smartphone and Tablet Chargers Of 2012

powergen-usb-charger

Today, we use smartphones and tablet computers wherever we go. However, batteries life tends to be a constant issue. That’s why carrying a spare charger in your daypack or purse makes a lot of sense. In most cases, you just need a bit of spare power to make a call or access the internet.

The Best LED Camping Lanterns Of 2012

coleman-quad-lantern-200x200

LED Lanterns are perhaps the most useful portable lights — they can be used as camp lights, work lights, or emergency lights. The LEDs inside aren’t susceptible to shocks, and they burn for decades.

The Best Electric Boat Motors

The Best Electric Boat Motors

The Best Electric Boat Motors: Minn Kota Endura C2 30 ($99) Minn Kota Endura C2 55 ($257) MotorGuide VariMAX V55 – Freshwater, Pontoon Mount ($414) Torqeedo Travel 1003 ($1,999) Compared to gasoline-powered boat motors, electric outboard motors provide quieter operation, no exhaust fumes and zero emissions. Electrics are great as the primary means of propulsion… [Continue Reading]

Enjoyable Travel Using Slow, Clean, Car-Free Techniques

great-allegheny-trail

Right now, I’m investigating a new travel technique, which I’m calling “Slow Daily Travel”. By going slow (traveling 1o to 100 miles per day), your journey can often become more intriguing and enjoyable. My technique involves traveling as far as you like each day, and then staying overnight in a hotel. The next day you… [Continue Reading]

Best LED Flashlights Of 2011

EagleTac P100 C2 LED Flashlight

What makes the “best” flashlight?  There are specialty lights available for a wide range of applications, but the perfect all-purpose flashlight combines compact size, durability, and above all, a bright beam of light.  All four of our favorites utilize LEDs (light emitting diodes) which are energy efficient for maximum battery life as well as extremely… [Continue Reading]

Best Commuter Bicycle Tires

Best Commuter Bike Tires

Once you’ve found the perfect bike, bag, rack, and helmet, you’re all set for gas-free commuting, right?  Not quite – the right tires are an often-overlooked part of the package, and they can make all the difference for biking around town.  Here are four of the best tires for commuters, blending traction, durability, and low… [Continue Reading]

Chlorine Alternatives For Efficient Swimming Pools

Chlorine Is An Effective Pool Sanitizer, But It Has Drawbacks

Cannonball! Jumping into a swimming pool is a classic way to beat the heat on a hot summer day. But clean pool water requires a combination of filtration, circulation, and sanitization. Chlorine has long been the most common tool for keeping pools free of bacteria and algae – but it has its drawbacks, and there… [Continue Reading]

Efficient Outdoor Water Use

Efficient-Outdoor-Water-Use-thumb

A recent Metaefficient post offered some ideas for reducing water consumption in your home – but why stop there? Read on to learn about some tips and products that will help you manage water use in outdoor spaces like lawns and gardens. Best of all, you’ll reduce both your environmental impact and utility bills in… [Continue Reading]

Efficient, Eco-Friendly Lawn Care

efficient eco friendly lawn care

April showers might bring May flowers – but they also bring an explosion of lawn growth. Traditional lawn care can rely on some pretty nasty chemicals and smoke-belching machines, but luckily there are alternatives. Read on to learn about some innovative products to keep your lawn beautiful and healthy, while keeping the environment healthy too.

The Rainwater Pillow – Rain Barrel Meets Cistern

The Rainwater Pillow

Utilizing rainwater runoff is a double bonus for homeowners, both in environmental and financial terms.  It reduces the amount of water consumed from the municipal system, and it lessens the strain on wastewater treatment facilities that must process water after it flows down the drain.  A rain barrel is great for small-scale applications like a… [Continue Reading]