House of Earth

Sustainability isn’t just that thing all your friends are getting a master’s in. Industry leaders from manufacturing and commerce to agriculture and the arts chase a common goal of nurturing Earth by not shooting ourselves in our massive carbon foot.

Explore options for your own home or business at Southwest Build It Green Expo, taking place from Thursday through Saturday in the south building of the Phoenix Convention Center. Conference presenter Doug Edwards (a principal of sustainable custom homebuilder Edwards Design Group) points out that increased energy efficiency at home doesn’t just pay for itself; it’s even possible that monthly savings – not to mention current government incentives – could cover a loan or mortgage taken out to make the improvements.

That’s merely an example. Hundreds of other vendors, seminars up the wazoo, and thousands of like-minded visitors will give you a warm feeling (via some clean-burning method, natch) about doing well by doing good.

Feel free to download a free pass at the website, where you can also register for particular sessions.

Thu., March 18, 1-4 p.m.; Fri., March 19, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sat., March 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., 2010