June 15, 2023: Like shining an apple (only a little more harried), I’m putting the polish on two presentations for this year’s Midwest Renewable Energy Fair. Both are topics I took a big bite into while building the Poem Home featured on these pages:

How to Reduce Construction Waste

A Barrier-Free and Non-Toxic Home Explained

When I began my research in 2018, actionable information was hard to come by. It still can feel that way, because these are big topics and uh…..things change. But it’s gotten easier. More and more people are working these topics, sharing their information, nudging industry, and offering alternatives to business-as-usual.

“Say NO to a Dumpster!” is how I begin my Construction Waste talk. I found logical (and a few unconventional) ways to save money and the environment by drafting up “cut plans”, using bio-degradable materials, and donating, repurposing or recycling packaging and excess materials.

“Be a Host, Don’t Be a Jerk!” is my warning for the Barrier-Free talk. I show pictures of my house and how I…so far…fall short of being a gracious and generous host. The entry path from the street to my front door is still gravel. But, should they stay overnight, they’ll enjoy the accessible shower!

I tend to be an open-windows fresh air freak, and can worry myself sick over what we’re doing to our precious planet. But I count my blessings that I don’t suffer like some people do with asthma, allergies, and chemical sensitivities. For the Non-Toxic Home Explained talk, I present the “Top 6 Things to Avoid”, share my material picks for Poem Homes, and a list of websites for more information.

The Fair runs from Friday June 23rd through Sunday June 25th. The keynote speaker on Friday evening is Amy Goodman. My talks are on Sunday at 11 am and at 1 pm. I’d love to see you there!