While our Conscious Consumer site provides resources that folks across the country can use, these community-focused guides infuse an understanding and appreciation of your community’s unique resources, concerns, and local flavor. The guides provide concise information to consumers on what to look for in environmentally and socially preferable products, the availability of these products in the local community, and green efforts of local businesses. Each guide was created with information collected by volunteers in that community. These individuals researched local resources, surveyed the businesses, and are now following up with the businesses to expand green practices and product offerings before the next edition of the guide comes out.

Each guide consists of four parts:

• A directory of resources for saving money by buying less, supporting your neighbors by buying local, and protecting our children's future by buying green. Featured categories include community gardens, libraries, thrift shops, co-op grocery stores, local organizations and much more.
• A list of 10 products most people use regularly. In this section, we identify what to look for in these products, their impact on people and the planet, and where to find them.
• A list of nine major purchases that have a major impact on the environment such as housing, energy, and travel. This section offers specific information on what to look for, why it's important and where to find preferable products and services locally.
• A chart that spotlights the name, address, and rating of the three top-scoring businesses in each category.