What is McHenry County doing to go Green?

We are making a commitment and changing the way we do business!  In the early 90s we developed the County's Adopt - A - Highway program and acknowledged the national recycling efforts by passing and enforcing the Residential Recycling Ordinance. In the past few years, we have added staff to develop strategies to conserve our water resources, developed and approved the County's Green Policy, and implemented changes in many of the products we use. Below are a few examples of the ways your county is working to preserve your quality of life (for a complete list, please click here):

• Green Cleaning Certification -  McHenry County was presented with the Elkhorn Chemical & Packaging’s Green Cleaning Certification in April of 2008. For five County Buildings; The Government Center, Administration, Annex A, Annex B and the Division of Transportation Buildings.

• Energy Star Ratings - Items with the Energy Star rating are designed to save money and protect the environment. This year the County's computer lease includes many items which meet the Environmental Protection Agency's July 20th, 2007 Energy Star guidelines. All appliances and techology items purchased by the County must be Energy Star Rated.

• In 2003 McHenry County was the first county in Illinois to join Energy Star.  McHenry County was the first Illinois county to join the United States Green Building Council (USGBC) in 2007.

Eco-Friendly Water Powered Clock!

Save money on batteries and help eliminate the use of harmful chemicals with the clock that is powered by water!   The epitome of a greener gadget and sustainable design this Eco-Friendly clock is actually powered by the water.  Without the need for batteries, the Eco-Friendly clock keeps perfect time as electrodes harvest energy from the water.  All you have to do to make the clock run is fill its tank up with tap water and cut a lemon into quarters and squeeze some juice into the water tank.  This procedure will enhance the power generated by the clock and make it work more efficiently.  You need to change the water in the tank every so often and add lemon every 5 - 7 weeks!.  The clock has a memory function that remembers the time as you change the water.  Save on the cost of buying batteries!  Measuring approximately 4” high and 3.5” wide, this playful yet eco-conscious timepiece is truly what’s next in going green. Do your part and participate in the fight against global warming today!

To get more information about this clock, visit their website at http://www.bedolwhatsnext.com.

2011 Green Guide - Recycling Directory for McHenry County
Ever wondered what you do with old paint that you can't throw in your trash?  Or what about tires and items that are strictly prohibited from being tossed by your trash company?  That is what the Recycling Directory for McHenry County is here for.  This excellent guide created by the Northwest Hearld and MCC can you help you find these places.  Click here for complete recycling guide for McHenry County.

Interested in Saving Gas Money?
With the number of people losing jobs these days, I think we all have started to tighten our wallets.  What a better way to save money and the environment by riding a bus or carpooling?!

McHenry County has set up a program with Pace that makes it easy for County employees to find other County employees that may take a similar route to work!  For further information, please click here.  Or, to find a bus and view the bus schedule, simply go to www.pacebus.com.

Does Your Pet Need a Wash? By: Pam Lundquist - Article Courtesy of National Geographic

Since many chemical-laden dog and cat grooming products abound, it's often tempting to forgo the bath altogether!  Earthbath, a company based in San Francisco, has an array of natural, soap-free alternatives, blending plant essences and oils for a least-toxic pet and environmentally friendly scrub.  And your pet's well being isn't Earthbath's only concern:  All products are 100 percent biodegradable.

Whichever product you pick, avoid pet shampoos with insecticides, synthetic fragrances, artificial deodorizers, or colors.  In particular, skip products with pyrethrins, pyrethroids and carbaryl.

Earthbath Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo: A fragrance and dye-free wash, tailor made for puppies, kittens, or pets with skin sensitivity.  www.earthbath.com