green  n., adj.
Describes any step in the direction toward conserving our natural resources; keeping the environment healthy; and reducing our overall impact on our environment.

sustainable  adj.
Living and using resources in a way that meets our needs and comforts without damaging the ability of future generations to also meet their needs (e.g., solar power is sustainable, since the sun doesn’t shrink when we use its rays).

ecofriendly  adj.
 An item or person whose action or function benefits the environment (carpoolers and recyclers, for example).

LEED  n.
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program sets the U.S. Green Building Council’s standards and serves as a rating system for ecofriendly homes.

greenhouse gas emissions  n.
Gases released from burning fossil fuels, such as carbon dioxide, which trap heat in the atmosphere. While there have always been greenhouse gases in our atmosphere, adding more heats up the planet, causing global climate change.

passive design  n.
A building method that lets the environment do the work while you save money on your electric bill. This could include orientation of a house to catch trade winds and natural light; vents in the roof to let rising hot air escape; or roof overhangs to block direct sunlight.

organic  adj.
Products that are grown and harvested without damaging the environment, and without pesticides or chemicals. They’re also manufactured sustainably.

renewable resource  n.
One that doesn’t diminish with use, or can replenish its supply quickly. (Renewable resources include solar power and some types of wood.)

photovoltaic  adj.
Solar panel cells that grab the sun’s energy and turn it into electricity.

biofuel  n.
Fuel from plant oils, which can be used to fill your tank or power our electric plant.

footprint  n.
Our impact on the environment—what we use and how we use it, what we destroy and what we leave behind.

urban infill  n.
 Building up housing and amenities in city centers, instead of sprawling outward to the suburbs.

APRIL GREEN EVENTS:

Earth Day Festival 2008 April 18, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m. University of Hawaii-Manoa	Celebrate Earth Day and learn about the benefits and uses of native plants and trees. Enjoy hands-on demonstrations, information booths and entertainment, food, prizes and more.
Grow Hawaiian Festival, presented by the Hawaiian Electric Company. April 26, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Bishop Museum Free admission for kamaaina and military.	Educational and promotional booths, technology demonstrations, artists and artisans doing live art and selling their work, plant sales, live music and other performances, great food, as well as an organic beer and wine garden.