Welcome to Translating 'Sustainable'. I am a Certified Sustainable Building Advisor serving the Greater Lehigh Valley area of eastern Pennsylvania. Drawing from my knowledge and experience with sustainability, I provide consulting, education, and outreach services to homeowners, non-profit organizations, and small businesses in the surrounding community. With my guidance, your goal of translating sustainable for the everyday choices you make in your residential or workplace environment can be achieved.

• Are the spaces around your windows and doors cold and drafty? Is your building's exposure to western and southern sun overheating your rooms? Are space heaters being used to warm up the colder locations in your home or office? Do you dread looking at your utility bills?

• Are you concerned about your carbon footprint? Geothermal and solar seem like good renewable energy choices, but are there effective ways to lower the cost?

• Is increased stormwater runoff creating gullies in your yard or gardens, and creating icy spots on walks and driveways? Now what do you do?

What does sustainability mean to you?

Maybe it's obtaining greater energy efficiency, exploring renewable energy options, improving indoor air quality, or evaluating the merits and performance of non-toxic or low VOC products. Perhaps you want to recycle more but you're wondering if it's worth the trouble. Phase out single-use plastics at home or at work, reduce food waste, or consider composting but how do you handle the transition? Landscape with native plants? Install a rain garden? All are sustainable goals, but where do you begin?

I can help you meet your goals!

Focusing on both the structure and outdoor environment, I will examine the spaces where you live, work, play, or learn. I will evaluate your options and choices, then advise you on the techniques, products, and services that can help your home or business be more efficient and sustainable.

My everyday choices and activities are guided by the 3 E's or P's of sustainability. The choices we make can have a positive or negative effect on our buildings, our health, our neighborhoods, our businesses, and globally. While change can be challenging, the benefits can far outweigh the cost of making effective and, in many cases, simple changes.

Let's connect. As a CSBA, a member of the Lehigh Valley Branch of Green Building United, and former board member of the Lehigh Valley Sustainability Network, my network of regional sustainability professionals is a text, e-mail, or phone call away. Are you, your employer, or your organization interested in offering a presentation about sustainability or a sustainable topic? Does your workplace offer Lunch and Learn, Brown Bag, or Green Bag sessions? I am a presenter with years of public speaking experience. Visit my Services page to view my list of topics or ask me about a topic that is of particular interest to you and your group. I'm very interested in learning about how I can help you meet your sustanability goals and answer your questions about sustainability.

Click here to contact me with your inquiries or comments.

I was employed as a teacher and docent with Historic Bethlehem Parnership for ten years. During that time, I gained a knowledge and appreciation for the efficiencies in building, farming, and industrial technologies developed by past generations. My home is adjacent to working farms. I value their hard work and the local food they provide, as well as the open views I enjoy each day. I welcome the opportunity to work with historic groups and farm businesses in order to help achieve their sustainable goals.