Andrea Ridout

Senior Lifestyles Reporter

After three decades in the hardware industry and radio/TV, Andrea Ridout of Garland has become a nationally-known expert on products and processes for green home improvement. She has owned and sold three award-winning companies and has a wide breadth of knowledge from decorative hardware to gardening, eco-friendly topics to animal husbandry.

She is currently working on a new book about backyard chickens for Texas A&M Press. You can reach her at Andrea@AskAndrea.com.

By Andrea Ridout

Feb 01 2019, ANDREA RIDOUT

AgriLife specialist schooled North Texans on sustainability

Dotty Woodson, a horticulturist dedicated to spreading enthusiasm for water conservation and gardening, retired after 30 years, including 24 with Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. Honored by public figures, she's known for her engaging talks, TV appearances, and plans to focus on orchids post-retirement.

Dec 18 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Pets will go wild for these eco-gifts

Surprise your pet with eco-friendly, durable, and chemical-free gifts from local and national merchants. Options include indestructible dog toys, ceramic cat canisters, vegan dog chews, bird seed treats, and chicken coops. Online finds offer recycled toys, hemp collars, feeder cams, and organic cat grass. Prices may vary by merchant.

Dec 12 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Eco-chic fashion 'pops' up at Northpark in Dallas

Bottletop's eco-chic fashion pop-up at Northpark Center, Dallas, offers luxurious accessories made from upcycled materials like pop can tabs. The boutique, open until Dec. 31, showcases ethical fashion with products handcrafted in Brazil, supports sustainability, and donates profits to education-focused efforts globally.

Dec 10 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Fun eco-friendly gifts for kids

The Green Gift Guide suggests eco-friendly gifts for kids, including science kits, knitted finger puppets, solar lanterns, recycled art kits, bamboo dining sets, and museum experiences. These gifts, available locally and online, promote environmental awareness and creativity through sustainable materials and engaging learning activities.

Dec 04 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Earth-friendly gifts for women

The Green Gift Guide recommends eco-friendly gifts for women, including bamboo cutting boards, handmade tea towels, recycled metal jewelry, and compostable coffee pods. Local and online options feature sustainable products made from renewable and recycled materials, supporting eco-conscious living while delighting the recipient.

Nov 30 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Eco-friendly gifts for men

Show your love for the Earth by choosing sustainable options when you spend money this holiday season. Stores all across the Metroplex take note when you vote for the planet with your dollars.

Jun 22 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Renovated Garland facility offers new venue for Texas AgriLife

A former Dallas County maintenance facility in Garland has found new life both indoors and out as a research and education center for Texas A&M AgriLife Extension and as well as provider of Dallas County services.

Feb 05 2018, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green valentine gifts show love for the planet

Whether you're pampering your sweetheart, bringing some cheer to a loved one or just treating yourself, choose something special for Valentine's Day this year. Here's our list of Cupid-approved, ethical and eco-friendly gifts – including several experiential ideas.

Dec 19 2017, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Last minute eco-friendly gifts for kids

The best time to learn to take care of our precious planet is while we are young. Christmas is just around the corner but you’ve still got time to grab these eco-friendly buys at stores around DFW and online. Phone numbers supplied so that you check current availability.

Dec 16 2017, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Eco-friendly holiday gifts for pets

The Green Gift Guide suggests eco-friendly holiday gifts for pets, such as organic dog treats, felted cat caves, durable toys, biodegradable waste bags, and environmentally conscious pet beds. These sustainable, chemical-free gift options are available at local retailers and online, promoting health and joy for pets.

Dec 08 2017, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Eco-friendly holiday gifts for men

Part one in our Green Gift Guide, featured Earth-friendly gifts for the ladies in your life. Here's part two with tips for shopping responsibly for the guys this holiday season. Whether you're shopping at local storefronts or online, you can find recycled, repurposed, Fair Trade and organic in goodies large and small.

Nov 29 2017, ANDREA RIDOUT

Green Gift Guide: Eco-friendly holiday gifts for women

Discover eco-friendly holiday gift ideas for women in the 2017 Green Gift Guide series. Featured items include birdfeeders, artisan garden tools, beeswax wraps, wreath workshops, GreenPans, vegan bath products, solar lanterns, organic beauty boxes, vegan satchels, mushroom ornaments, and recycled gardening tools. Find gifts both locally in Dallas and online.