Q.
My sister's husband makes us feel terrible about all the ways he thinks we aren't being green enough. I really try to do my best to live in an environmentally sound way, but I do drive an SUV (a major no-no in his book). How can I deal?
A.
Though your brother-in-law's convictions have merit (driving an SUV for a year wastes as much energy as leaving the refrigerator door open for six years), his green-guilting: not so much. How do you get him to stop? Print out our green home guide (thenest.com/greenhome) and put it on your fridge. Next time he visits, ask if he's done everything on the list. No? Give him hell; then say you're joking—you're not the type who judges others' lifestyles. He should get the hint.
Jan 18, 2011