Ed Begley, Jr. (whom we have profiled  here and here), best known these days for playing Stan Sitwell on Arrested Development and characters in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries, is doing more than his fair share to show us that going green doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your comfort or style. His book and television show challenge the notion that an eco-friendly lifestyle means fewer amenities, and is spreading the word that thinking green can and will, in fact, save you money. And he’s tremendous fun to hear on the radio.

Now, I know this is the second time in a week I’ve written about a celebrity doing his or her part to help out the environment. And this was not my intention. But after reading my little post on Leonardo DiCaprio, my uncle emailed me, simply, “Leo’s got nothing on Ed Begley, Jr.” He also included an audio clip from an interview Begley did yesterday with public radio station KUOW in Seattle, and HOLY JEEZ IS IT AMAZING. The man is, quite simply put, fascinating. He’s able to phrase his arguments for environmental awareness both as, “This is good for the earth,” and, more importantly (as preaching to the choir converts no one), “This is good for your wallet.” I mean, the man counts Ollie North and Sean Hannity as people who were receptive to his message.

I tried to find a quick clip of Begley, Jr. in one of his movies or television shows, but pretty much all I could find was him being interviewed by Jiminy Glick, and decided not to link to it. You’re welcome. Instead, I highly suggest you and listen to the interview, grabbing either ideas or merely inspiration to adjust your habits a little bit. The interview starts at the four-minute mark. And, yes, maybe perhaps this next one isn’t so much a social change issue, and maybe I’m abusing the power of having the take action button, but and buy the entire Arrested Development series. It’s just so good. And…maybe watch it on a solar-powered DVD player while composting your leftovers? I guess?

Also, here is a KUOW microphone made entirely out of Rice Crispy treats. Because, um. That’s where Begley Jr. was interviewed. Just go with it.

Oh, what the hell. Here’s some awesomeness for you.