Honestly, I am so sick of “the green movement” I could puke. In fact, I predicted this awhile back. I KNOW it’s a good thing and I’m happy that there is so much awareness, but I don’t need G.E.-owned N.B.C. or ultra- conservative Fox throwing it in my face in the middle of my comedy (how hypocritical is that). I don’t need my high fashion magazines to have green issues, and I don’t need my D.W.R. catalog to have real and plastic sod on the covers, asking the “deep” question “is this green?” I think it’s funny when Oprah preaches green one day, then gives away a Ford Explorer to a man so he will no longer have to use public transportation the next. Stop force feeding it people. As someone who went to a school where William McDononugh was the Dean at the time, I really don’t need anymore “green tips” about turning off the water while brushing my teeth. Mrs. Wilson taught me that in second grade.In fact, Philip Nobel ranted about it most eloquently in a little ditty called “Green but not Heard” in Metropolis magazine:

I finally figured it out. For years I’ve avoided reading much about green architecture, let alone writing about it. And not only because it’s boring. As saving the Earth has become the cause of all causes (Hi, Brad!), I thought this might just be my usual knee-jerk recoiling from things earnest and popular. Now I know it’s a deeply principled stand based on the defense of public manners. When one does something good, does one then crow about it, seeking gain? That would be the opposite of grace. But that is exactly what we see in page after page of project after project, each claiming to be LEEDier than thou. Here, planet, I’ve done you this kindness. Look everyone, I’m saving the planet! Clearly there’s a place for specialized literature, a quiet little spot on the journalistic margins where green architects and clients can trade best practices and grow the field. It’s the right thing to do. But that doesn’t mean we need to hear about it.

Anyway, I received this email from a source that has been green and sustainable and responsible since its inception, which does NOT annoy me at all. Dwell.com is having a green contest. Here’s the 411:

Hello Dwellers! We want to invite you to participate in a new contest hosted by Dwell.com and the American Institute of Architects — “How Green Are You?” We want to know. Show us innovative and interesting ways you have “greened” your home and you can win prizes totaling $2000. Entry is really simple, submit your photos and write a short essay on your project. Dwell and the AIA will evaluate entries and choose a winner. The winning project will be featured on Dwell.com for up to one year — great exposure! Enter today at: www.dwell.com/greencontest. Contest entries are evaluated weekly so get yours in today! 

Go on, go act LEEDier than thou and sign up! P.S. Happy Earth Day!