Living Green: A FOXe Special Report

(WJBK) - The global effort to go green continues to grow. From upcycling to recycling, alternative energy to home energy audits, you can do your part each day of the year to help make our planet a brighter place.

In the videos above, we'll show you what metro Detroiters are doing and how you can get involved.

Part 1:
Even during cold Michigan winters, there's a place that stays green. In Waterford, local gardeners are digging indoors after winning the greenhouse lottery. To learn more about a chance to lease a 60-square-foot indoor garden plot in the Waterford Oaks Greenhouse, log on to www.destinationoakland.com .

Also, solar power is popping up across our area. See how the Rochester fire department are a local church are saving energy by using the power of the sun.

Part 2:
A typical American family spends around $1,500 a year in utility bills. As much as half of that could be wasted energy and wasted money. To help make your home more energy efficient, local companies are offering home energy audits and utility companies are helping to cover the cost.

Go Green Energy Consulting
248-736-1898
gogreenc.com

DTE Home Energy Audit Rebates
www.dteenergy.com

Free DTE Home Assessment
877-497-2191
wwww.dteenergy.com

Part 3:
Outdated appliances are another home item sure to run up your energy bills. Older refrigerators and freezers can use up to four times as much energy as newer models. But DTE Energy is offering a way to haul away your old clunkers at no charge to you.

Refrigerator Recycling
866-796-0512
www.dteenergy.com

Electronics Recycling
248-208-2270
www.rrrasoc.org

Part 4:
Going green inspires creativity. And right here in Michigan, several companies offer unique e-friendly inventions.

The Cool Green Machine
www.myfoxdetroit.com

Current Motor
wwww.currentmotor.com

Next Cat
nextcatinc.com

License Plate Heaven
www.licenseplateheaven.com