When you’re a company whose commitment to the environment is built into your brand, it stands to reason that you view everything you do with an eye on how it affects the world in which your clients live. It also stands to reason that Greening Homes regards Earth Day as a holiday that validates the company’s purpose and performance in renovating homes that are attuned to sustainable practices. Earth Day is an opportunity for Greening Homes to celebrate the success of its commitment to sustainability.
At Green Homes, lifelong learning is part of the work ethic: the crew stays up to date on building practices in order to ensure sustainability in their finished products. Following the opening of their new Junction Triangle office space on 163 Sterling Road, almost the entire crew spent the long Easter weekend participating in ‘Building a Science’ workshop. With boardroom tables fashioned from a reclaimed bowling alley, and a sliding partition wall panel made from a 1950s insulation advertisement, the new digs reflect Greening Homes’ customized renovation approach and esthetic.
Growth as a company over the years mean that it’s not uncommon for Greening Homes to be working on more than ten build sites at a time. The management team has found it necessary to have a vehicle to crisscross the city daily to maintain efficient use of time and labor. But when Greening Homes hits the road, they do so in green fashion. So their first company car is a fully electric SMART two-seater that runs on 100% renewable energy. They’re confident that the adoption of a fully and sustainably sourced electric SMART car makes a clear statement about their company’s values.
If awards are any indication, it’s apparent that their community approves. In 2014, Greening Homes won the Excellence in Corporate Responsibility Awards in the Waste Diversion/Recycling category. Coordinated by Green Living in collaboration with Canadian Business for Social Responsibility, The International Reference Centre for the Life Cycle of Products, Processes, and Services (CIRAIG), The Natural Step, Pembina Institute, SustainAbility, Sustainalytics, and Bob Willard, these awards were developed to recognize Canadians in the business community who are dedicated to the implementation of outstanding sustainability and ethical practices. Last year was a banner year for awards; the Greening Homes Beechwood project won in the Innovation in Sustainability category for the CaGBC GTA Chapter’s annual awards, beating out stiff competition from the Toronto Atmospheric Fund and the Harbourfront Centre. And 2015 has started out in the same fashion, with Greening Homes’ Deep Energy Retrofit earning a nomination for the year’s 2015 national Canadian Green Building Award. The winner will be announced on June 2.
Greening Homes thanks their collaborators who have participated in their award-winning acclaim, but they also express appreciation to the homeowners who are committed to building high-performance homes that are integrated into the environment.
About Greening Homes 
Since 2007, Green Homes Ltd. (www.greeninghomes.com/about-us/) has committed its resources to being an impetus for sustainable change in an industry that is all too often wasteful and inefficient. Fully licensed, WSIB-registered, insured and bonded, this Toronto-based renovation firm has a level of expertise that’s unmatched in the city, with a diverse crew of journeyman carpenters, LEED APS, an engineer and architectural designer who are committed to helping clients built projects that meet their needs and budgets. Working within an organized framework of core values, they provide renovation on a “light green” or “deep green” basis to renovate homes beyond conventional standards.

The sun’s midday heat beating down on my head, I look around and observe the primitive lifestyle of my relatives. The aunts busily cooking outside overtop a fire-pit for my deceased grandfather’s prayer gathering; uncles sitting around talking, laughing, drinking; children playing amongst each other; dogs wandering around the property; pigs sleeping in their pens, roosters and chicks strut around freely on the grounds while breeding females remain in a cage to avoid contamination. It is quite overwhelming to see such a different world than what I’m accustomed to in the city.
My first reaction to arriving at my father’s village where he grew up in the Philippines was, 'How long do I have to stay here?' But as the days pass, I warmed up to the way of life here. I became increasingly surprised at my elders' state of health and longevity with a few almost reaching 100 years old. How is it that my relatives here, with their standard of living, outlive my relatives in North America?

Living conditions in Lloren Village remain primitive and primarily outdoors. As I explored the neighborhood, my immediate environment reminded me of the days when my family used to go camping. My eyes wander at the minimal house structures and design made of cement, wood, or bamboo. Generally, housing is kept very basic compared to North American housing. My relatives’ kitchen does not have appliances such as microwaves and stoves as I doubt other neighbors would. Cooking is usually done over a fire pit outside, but despite the lack of appliances, the food cooked was delicious. The bedroom in the house where my grandmother stayed is just big enough to fit a bed and dresser, with walls simply made of cement rather than drywall. I look around her room and see pictures of my grandfather and her when he was still alive. At that moment, I remember those times they babysat my brother and I back in Canada. I can't help but smile at how many generations their relationship has lasted.
I continue to look around for a washroom, also called CR, in the Philippines. This house does not have one so I walk a few steps outside to a relative's house (literally a few steps). The washrooms have no flushing toilets or shower heads, but rather buckets of cold water for use. Water pumps outside or faucets in the CR are the source for water supply. At first, it took getting used to taking a shower just with buckets. If I wanted warm water I would have to boil water and mix it with the cold water. However, on those lazy days I rough out the cold buckets of water. It's not so bad on extremely hot days. One of my observations in Lloren village are that people not only remain in contact with nature, they are in continual contact with neighbors and family. I started to understand that quality of life does not necessarily mean having everything that money can buy. Instead of complaining what I’m lacking here, I wanted to enjoy immersing myself in their culture. What better way to help keep the body and spirit healthy than living within the natural environment.

Perhaps it's the limited use of electronics that keep everyone outside. Although televisions are becoming more common in the households here, cable is not readily available. I also notice house phones are not as prevalent as the use of cellphones--all the adults seem to have cellphones. Computers and portable computer games are considered a luxury and are usually brought in by relatives abroad. This limited availability of electronics prevent my relatives and their neighbors from being exposed to forms of media and children have no choice but to better utilize their time on other social and education activities. For this reason, locals do not get exposed to harmful radioactive frequencies as city dwellers do.
Harmful chemicals such as food preservatives and pesticides are avoided here since they raise their own animals for eating. Of course, they are sold as well. My uncle takes good care of the big pigs as well as piglets. To sell a full grown pig would normally cost 20,000 Php (approx. $413 US) and piglets would sell for 2000 Php (approx. $42 US). Organic poultry is also frequently eaten in Lloren village but when I asked if they sell them, one of my relatives said they keep them for consumption. Given how they taste, I would keep them for myself too! By relying on growing your vegetation or raising animals for consumption, not only are unhealthy food choices uncommon, eating organic food keeps your overall health and energy levels high.
One night I was sitting outside with the adults and looking around in the darkness. I asked if safety is an issue here with no security around and limited lights. One of my uncles laugh and says everybody knows everybody here, if there ever was a burglar it would be a family member. Their dogs would also have a big dinner should there ever be an intruder. Despite dogs not being domesticated as compared to those in North America, I find the dogs around my families’ property are quite territorial. In terms of safety in Lloren village, crimes such as kidnapping, violence, and drug use do not happen in this small community. Crime rates are nowhere near what urban environments portray. No wonder I’m the only one with my eyebrows raised when the door is kept unlocked.
Another important factor to longevity is through the support of extended family. Unless some of my relatives have gone abroad, the segregation of families is almost unheard of in villages. My relatives here all live in close vicinity and maintain close-knit relationships. In fact, three houses of my relatives are within 10 steps of each other. Other relatives houses are within a 10 minute walk. Quarrels and animosity amongst friends, neighbors, and families seem to be non-existent because their elders settle any differences promptly before it sparks. Children especially keep close ties with siblings and cousins, and have great respect for their elders.

Teamwork is obvious in this environment. I see everyone helping with cooking, cleaning, and helping the kids with homework. In fact, they are quite eager for me to teach them English during the evenings. When the majority of chores are completed, elders sit talking with each other, sharing stories and laughing. It is a heart-warming experience to witness. This close-knit family system can help avoid feelings of being overwhelmed. They don't seem to have the common stresses that cause many health problems in urban cities. It is actually common for elders to reach an age of almost 100 in Lloren Village. My grandmother is 94 and still insists on walking around. As it came time for my parents and I to leave the village and head back to the capital city of Manila, I felt deep appreciation for this visit. Not only was I able to meet relatives for the first time but I also acknowledge the way of life that the city forgets. Although the conveniences are missed here in a primitive environment, familial roots and, most importantly, well-being are enhanced.

The modern world may not be an option for those living a primitive lifestyle such as my relatives in a third world country, but the simplicity of that lifestyle carries a secret to longevity and health. Many cultures and societies abroad like Lloren Village in the Philippines are not developed like the west. They are still accustomed to certain ways of living that many developed countries have long left behind. It is easy to forget the natural elements of this environment that are advantageous. Healthy nutrition, close family relationships, limited use of technology, maximum time outdoors all contribute to lower levels of stress, thereby increasing longevity. It is not to say it does not exist in the developed, modern day lifestyle, however, it takes on a more secondary role behind hectic work schedules. The priority for family and social gatherings decrease as well as time for healthy eating and exercise. There are efficient tools available in the modern world such as the internet and solar power that can save time and energy. However, our basic human needs for well-being are still overlooked as more monetary demands are placed upon us. With the world further developing at such a rapid rate, can we remember to put our health and well-being first and the rat race last? Has the modern world eluded our memory of where our ancestors come from and where some still live?

The magnificent view underwater exhibit marine life such as gray, green and purple coral reefs, the fast moving school of green tropical fish, and the mysterious cloudiness of water further down. The various life forms below in the seaworld seem to speak to me in their own mystical language. Even the plants dancing from the ocean floor sway with a consciousness. The silence of hearing my own heartbeat and breathing as I witness this different world makes the rough boat ride out to sea that much more worth it.
Located at Honda Bay, Brgy. Sta Lourdes, Puerto Princesa, island hopping in Palawan, Philippines is ideal for those that love snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. Of the 7107 islands in the Philippines, Honda Bay is known to be one of the best dive spots in the country.

At the Hondo Bay Tourist Information and Assistance Center, visitors pay a fee for each island. I find locals are more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Comprising of six little islands or islets mostly untouched by human development, tourists can choose which to explore. The farther and longer it takes for the boat to get there, the higher the fee which includes the pump boat and boatmen for the entire day. Snorkeling equipment can also be rented with flippers and goggles costing 100 PHP ($2.05 US) each. There are no formal lessons on snorkeling, however it is quite easy to learn how to use the breathing apparatus on your own.
Wooden pump boats resembling canoes are equipped with lifejackets, a couple benches, and a sitting area. An average of 8 people can fit on one boat. Two local handlers usually accompany each boat as one steers from the back and the other assists in anchoring and parking. Since the entire trip lasts at least a few hours, you can bring lunch and snacks onboard.

Once out on sea, it takes around 20 minutes before the handlers park the boat by a floating little hut shelter. Pambato Coral Reef is not an island but an area where coral reefs and fish are easily seen. Another floating shelter is about 20 meters away from the boat where visitors can put on gear. For those not comfortable swimming to the shelter from the boat, visitors can sit on a floating styrofoam turtle board and get pulled by a local helper. Once the gear is properly on, visitors can swim approximately 20 meters to reach the coral reef area.
Once reaching this area, some parts are not deep; in fact, if you wanted to stand on the reefs, your head would be above the water. Below the water surface I see different shapes of coral reefs; some look like purple brains, some spiky while others look like mushroom tops. It is not recommended to touch with your hands as it may be sharp. As the life jacket keeps you afloat, you can relish on the majestic view below and the faint sounds of the underworld. It is difficult to find fishes in this area as they hide under the reefs as soon as there are any sudden movements or noises.
Our second stop is Starfish island....a secluded island known for vast amounts of starfishes. The sandbar circles a small lagoon in the center. A few live starfishes lie in the clear shallow water where it can easily be picked up. Dont worry, they do not bite nor move. Not too many people were on this island at the time. However, several visitors were snorkeling in an area where mostly dead coral reefs can be seen. Fish are more tame here and come right up to the camera, possibly thinking they will be fed.

Next top, Snake Island is a 2 km long winding beach that wraps around in an S shape. There are little shops, an eating area with hut picnic tables and a beach volleyball court for visitors. The heat, especially around lunch time, is scorching and makes it hard to be exposed in the sun for too long without shade. Despite that, more people occupy this island as compared to others. Various activities such as swimming, snorkeling, eating, vendor shopping makes this island more lively.

Luli Island, derived from the Tagalog word ‘lulubog’ means ‘sinking’ is known to be submersed underwater during high tide periods. As our boat passes the island, wooden cottages can be seen sitting on stilts for that reason. White, yellow and blue flags stick out from the sand as reference points during high tide. At this time, only few people were on the island.

On our way back to Hondo Bay from Snake Island, waves lightly splashes into the boat with winds starting to pick up and clouds rolling in. One of the best aspects of being out in the sea are the impressive landscapes of picturesque hills, shores and islets. Being an expert at snorkelling or diving is not necessary to fully experience island hopping. The boat ride and visits to virgin beach little islands makes for a memorable heartfelt experience for families as well as lone travellers.
Price List:
Cowrie and Pandan Island: 25 PHP per person ($0.51 US)
Starfish, Luli Island, Pmabato Coral Reef: 50 PHP per person ($1.02 US)
Snake Island: free
Dos Palmas: 500 PHP ($10.20 US) per person
How to get there:
25 minutes ride from Puerto Princesa proper, either go with an organized tour (cost average 1200 PHP ($24.50 US), that includes pickup, lunch, entrance fees) or go by yourself which may be more worth it if your with someone else as it gives you more flexibility in choosing the islands to visit and when to leave
For more information visit:
http://www.filipinotravel.com.ph/tours/palawan.php
http://www.palawantrips.com/
Sidebar: Only few of Palawans 1770 islands can be explored. Some accommodate overnight stay.

The modern-day supermarket may be taken for granted while appreciation for farmers remain elusive.
My father, uncle, and I stand atop the gravel road looking down at the farming village, on which my uncle has a share of the property. I wondered to myself,  'Do people really enjoy the farming lifestyle?' One of the rural areas of the Philippines in a community of Lloren, farming is the way of life for many locals.
​My father was explaining how he and his brother used to play down there as kids, and would swim in the river. Unlike those numerous occasions of shrugging off my father's stories of the Philippines, this time I was intrigued: I could see it for myself and experience his footsteps from decades ago. We started to walk down the gravel pathway, sweat trickling down my face from the afternoon sun that lacks a breeze. The breath-taking view--and being able to see the farming locals in their fields--make up for the sacrifice. Surrounding the tiny farming village down below are hills with trees spread throughout the land. A little stream cuts through the area where it is used by locals and animals. Little huts stand nearby with wire fencing protecting garden areas from animals. Water buffaloes roam freely nearby awaiting their next duty.

As we drew closer, locals look with curiosity at my father and I taking pictures. Fortunately, we are led by the head farmer my uncle knows, Tito. He is quite friendly and reassuringly comfortable showing us around. I was amazed at his positivity and spirit. For living such a simple life, Tito and his family look extremely healthy and content with their way of life. Tito explains their living is very basic, with their main source of income from planting rice either out of their own land (usually about 2 to 5 hectares), or someone else’s land.
They sell their harvest at about P 1,200 ($28 US) per 50 pound sack. This particular village does not sell meat so farm animals are not raised here.

At Lloren, locals also grow various vegetables such as eggplants, beans, peas, sweet potatoes, and ocra. Vegetables are usually for their own consumption but if they have extra, they bring it to the public market to sell and get extra cash to buy their meat, fish, and other household needs. Out of the three planting seasons, the first two are during the rainy season (May to August) which are mainly used to plant rice, and the third is used to plant tobacco or peanuts. While tobacco and peanuts are cheaper commodities, Tito firmly believes that if they vary their crops from season to season, they can maintain and prolong the fertility of the soil without using fertilizers. This is in stark contrast to the farms in the west where fertilizers are commonly used to enhance the productivity of the land. I didn't realize how complex farming is and how much appreciation farmers deserve for their work.
​The four of us walk to where soil is being prepared for further planting. To prepare the ground, Tito uses water buffaloes to flow the soil. Small portable tractors can also be used, however, unless farmers are well-off, rototellers are not a commodity here at Lloren. For the size of the land, it is not worth it to buy and use heavy equipment as we know in North America.
“Would you like to ride the carabow?” Tito asks me, gesturing towards the water buffalo.

I didn't hesitate. Tito puts a banig (rug) on the buffalo’s back as he helps me climb on. It is actually similar to getting on a horse, but without the saddle gear. The backs of water buffaloes require a bit of balancing as it is not as flat as a horse’s back. My father explains when he was younger, these water buffaloes helped him cross the streams and rivers he wasn't able to do on his own. These animals deserve as much praise as Tito and other farmers: they work hand in hand growing foods we eat on daily basis. If it wasn't for water buffaloes, farmers would have difficulty preparing soils.
For shelter, small huts--barely standing--are used as homes. My heart ached for Tito and his family: appliances such as microwaves, dishwashers, and even sinks with faucets do not exist here. Buckets of water are the main vessel used for all chores. Electronics such as televisions and computers are not available unlike some villages uphill. There are also no personal vehicles for use, rather, locals walk uphill and catch tricycle taxis or jeepneys for transportation.

The entire time we walked and chatted, I noticed distinct assigned duties within the village. Unlike the western way of living, roles between men and women remain primarily separate. One young girl is hand-washing cloths by the small riverside, another woman is rinsing some vegetables in a big pot. Off in the distance, a girl and boy can be seen picking long beans from their leaves. The men, like Tito, usually do physical work such as carrying bolo (like bamboo but softer and lighter in texture) uphill for pickup, caring for the farm animals, and assisting water buffaloes harvesting the soil. Children usually play with other children but it is very common they help with adult chores, especially the girls.
I left with great appreciation for the conveniences we have in North America; while realizing that the concrete jungle is not necessarily the better route all the time. 

Shaking hands with Puerto Princesa’s city mayor drew many customers’ heads to turn. The popular seafood restaurant is a regular place to dine for Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn who advocates the preservation of Palawan’s beautiful natural environment. In fact, Puerto Princesa is a city with a track record in environmental management, where nature is carefully reserved and modern development is kept in moderation. Badjao Seafront restaurant is located at Abueg Road, and sits right on top of water supported by cement stilts.
The entry way has a tropical and authentic design with wooden face sculptures hanging, two carved totem poles and a water fountain to welcome you in. To get to the front lobby area, visitors walk on a wooden bridge walkway surrounded by trees and atop shallow water. In the lobby area, multi-coloured yellow, blue, red curtains drape the Badjeo Seafront restaurant sign. Intricately carved wooden totem poles are also on both sides of this set of doors. On the walls are framed credentials of the restaurant such as “the only place in Puerto Princesa visited by HRH Prince Andrew, Duke of York.”
When you enter the main dining area, all tables have a panoramic view of the ocean, hills and trees. It seems so surreal. The breeze naturally flows in as there are no windows but rather roll down bamboo shades. All throughout the restaurant as well as the washrooms are tropical zen displays resembling a spa clinic. Weave baskets, dark wood vases and hanging interior lamp shades are common in this restaurant. The bar boasts a glassware rack holding martini, beer and cocktail glasses. Interweaving straw and soft wood material is also part of the bar design. Just to the right, stairs lead to the second floor enclosed private room that can overlook the dining area. Private functions are usually held here. Waiters busily do their tasks wearing white loose shirts, casual black pants and sandals to represent Badjao’s authenticity.
The menu primarily consists of seafood items with appetizers averaging 140 PHP ($2.89 US). Entrees range between 135 to 200 PHP ($2.79 - 4.15 US) and drinks range between 45-60 PHP ($0.93 -1.25 US). Red and white wine by the glass is 125 PHP ($2.58 US) which goes quite well with whole grilled fish blanketed in sweet and sour sauce topped with vegetables. A side order of large tomatoes are presented as a flower to decorate the dish. Seafood items such as shrimps, lobster, squid and crabs can be cooked in different ways according to the guest’s preference. Steamed, butter garlic, fried, grilled, tempura or spicy are few of the chef’s favourites.
This Filipino-style seafood restaurant is ideal for family casual outings during the day with a more romantic ambience at night. Badjao Seafront is not in the main strip but off the beaten track so it best to expect a longer traveling time. For lunch or dinner reservations, the contact number is (048) 433-9912. Bon appetit!

This is not a new piece but I find it so moving. It's such a great reminder that we really need to treat our home with way more care and compassion.