Wanted: Green DIY ideas

Do you have an idea for a product that will improve people's lives or help the planet in some way? If so, now is your chance to get that product on store shelves.

Yahoo! and Edison Nation created the Make It Green program to help you to get your ideas in front of experienced people and possibly turn them into marketable products. All you need to do is submit an idea by the June 30 deadline.

If chosen, you'll get paid a $2,500 advance and a percentage of sales. You may even have the opportunity to appear on the TV show Everyday Edisons.

Intimidated? Don't be. Your product doesn't have to solve a major environmental problem. A green idea is anything that is good for people or the planet. Ideas that help save resources, reduce waste, reuse materials, reduce the impact of harmful chemicals, get people outside, find a better way to get rid of unwanted stuff, and many more are all fair game.

Here are some examples of the cool green ideas that have been submitted so far:

• An ultrasonic mosquito repellent. (The small iPod-sized device scares away mosquitoes with a high-pitched sound humans can't hear.)
• A decorative weather-vane that doubles as a wind turbine.
• A car wash solution that doesn't require water.
• A way to keep your personal info safe when you recycle your old prescription bottles.  
• Re-purposed wrapping paper made out of recycled cookie, potato chip, and pretzel packaging.

Check out more great ideas, and while you're at it, vote for your favorites.

So far, a biodegradable diaper made from plant fibers is most popular, but that may change as you and others submit innovative ideas and cast your votes.