Rubble, Rubble, Oil and Stubble
Date: August 10, 2008 | Category: Beauty, Holiday & Gift, Skin Care
While scruffy has its place, there’s no doubt, a clean-shaved man is simply irresistible. But it’s hard to find a line of skincare that steers clear of parabens, a preservative absorbed into the bloodstream and associated with a variety of health issues, ranging from weight gain to reproductive problems. Fortunately for me, I just discovered a line of paraben-free grooming products that delivers one of the smoothest shaves I’ve ever had! (more…)
Eco-Chic Shopping Is So LA
Date: August 10, 2008 | Category: Accessories, Fashion, Holiday & Gift, Jewelry, Women
This New Year I made a resolution not to expand my wardrobe or excessively drink green tea. To my husband’s surprise (not to mention my own), I’ve actually managed to uphold this pledge with only a few minor glitches (solely involving caffeine), that is up until my recent trip to LA.
So I’m retroactively amending my resolution as follows: “I will not buy NEW clothes - unless they are sustainable or drink green tea more than once a day - unless I’m totally exhausted.” With that said, I can now confess that I dropped by one of my favorite SoCal haunts last week-Decades Two-which features “almost new” designer clothes that have often been worn only once by celebrities and socialites (presumably because they cannot be photographed in the same item twice, heaven forbid). Suffice it to say that I did not leave empty-handed. The next day Torso Vintages had a glam trunk show at Chateau Marmont, where I picked up some glitzy 50’s gold belts. This inspired me to pull out a purple gown I hadn’t worn in five years, ‘cinching’ a hot retro-nouveau look.
Of course, when in LA, it’s impossible not to seek out the rockstar of sustainable fashion, Linda Loudermilk. On this trip, she wowed me with exquisite hemp silk suits, organic cotton tees, lyocel dresses and amazing jewelry (everyone keeps trying to turn on my recycled gold faucet necklace). The one thing that didn’t break the bank was a zebra-striped organic Rogan skirt that I found at Target for only eight bucks!
Once again, this proves that you do not have to sacrifice style to be eco-chic on any budget. As for my modified resolution, well, so far so good.
Teach our Children Well
Date: August 6, 2008 | Category: Clothing, Holiday & Gift, Kids, Lifestyle
Long before environmental consciousness made it fashionable, Henry David Thoreau warned to “Beware of all enterprises that require new clothes.” While we adults can get by with a few choice additions each year, our children have a peculiar tendency to grow and grow. These certified organic cotton T-shirts from When I Grow Up I Will are designed to inspire young wearers with guiding principles. Although they are fully biodegradable, these are the sort of pieces that get passed down from one child to the next, which makes them the ultimate in ecofashion. (more…)
If a Tree Falls in the Forest …
Date: August 6, 2008 | Category: Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
We all know the philosophical conundrum. If a tree falls in the forest and nobody’s there to hear it, does it make a sound? Rod Surber, eco-artist and founder of Salvage Woodworks, would negate the question altogether. Rod makes it his business to transform fallen trees into living art. (more…)
Stuffed Animals for Animal Rights!
Date: July 11, 2008 | Category: Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
Stephanie McPherson is on a mission: to “provide a connection between cuddly Stephanimals and real animals to help educate others about environmental responsibility.” Each hand-made creation comes with a storybook that teaches children about animals and the environment. The books are made from recycled and salvaged materials, fabrics are typically remnants, and the stuffed animals are filled with Eco-Fill, a polyester material made from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles. McPherson donates two Canadian dollars to local environmental non-profits for each item sold. This year’s organization is the Western Canada Wilderness Committee. It’s great to see a company that’s making stuffed animals support their real-life counterparts.
Gunpowder and Independence: Rethinking the Fourth
Date: July 4, 2008 | Category: Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
A recent article in Forecast Earth had us rethinking the way we celebrate our country’s independence. Aptly enough, most of the brilliant explosions of color that will light up American skies tonight are fueled by compressed gunpowder, filling the air with “heavy metals, carbon monoxide and sulfur oxides,” writes Marcia Passos Duffy. Of course, there are safer and cleaner alternatives for celebrating American freedom with pyrotechnics. The gunpowder can be replaced by nitrogen and even compressed air, as Disney is working on, producing less soot and smoke without sacrificing the magnificent kaleidoscope of rainbow lights we’ve grown to love.
The beautiful fireworks you’re likely to see tonight, however, leave a trail of barium compounds behind that can poison our patriotic hearts. And it should come as no surprise that the majority of fireworks we sneak off to buy from local vendors are imported from China, where the regard for safe manufacturing and ethical labor practices still leaves much to be desired.
Above all else, Forecast Earth urges us to clean up after ourselves when the call to freedom has ebbed to a warm afterglow. Remember, celebrating American independence should always begin and end with promoting a healthy earth.
Anyone for a Little Haut Chocolat?
Date: June 26, 2008 | Category: Food & Drink, Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
Whether you are the type of chocoholic that gets giddy around a box exotic truffles or a bar that you can slip in your laptop case, Vosges Haut-Chocolat has an outrageous taste for everyone. Made by owner and Chocolatier Katrina Markoff, Vosges are the product of renewable energy power (from wind farms and biomass facilities) coupled with a growing list of organic ingredients (this year they’re using organic sugar, butter, cream and nuts). Recipient of Bon Appetit’s Food Artisan of the Year Award, Markoff is on a mission to craft eco couture chocolate. Even the luxurious Vosges purple boxes (worthy of reuse) are made from 100% recycled cardboard. When I go to a dinner party, I always bring a box of the truffles or my favorite desert, Wink of the Rabbit Organic Caramels (the choice depends upon whether I plan on indulging or not).
Dad’s Day
Date: June 5, 2008 | Category: Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
Mom’s day came and went; her Organic Style bouquet has long since been composted; and now it’s Dad’s turn to feel like he’s the man. Father’s day is just around the corner, and though an e-card should be enough, you may want to acknowledge pop with a little eco-love, so here are a few tried and true suggestions:
The Man Can from Plum Island Soap comes chock full of ‘manly’ products that contain nothing synthetic or petroleum derived. The soap, bay rum oil, spicy shave gel and fisherman’s hand butter are specially formulated to keep dad naturally (and organically) clean and fresh. The bath mitt is made from sisal hemp and the can is recyclable, should he choose not to reuse it. The Man Can (and how can you not love the name!) is available for purchase at the Current Energy Store.
Rather hand pick dad’s grooming essentials a la carte? Check out the Herban Cowboy line. Though not 100% natural, H.C. is vegan, contains mostly certified organic ingredients and is void of dyes, alcohol and harsh synthetics. It also comes in sleek recyclable packaging printed with soy-based inks. These products smell and look so good, both mom and dad will appreciate them. You can find Herban Cowboy at most Whole Foods and at various other retailers. To find one near you, click here.
The Juice Bags from Reware are outfitted with a super flexible solar panel that can charge all dad’s gadgets using a universal built-in car lighter adapter. It’s just like charging a phone in the car, only it can be done walking anywhere under the sun. The bags are spacious, incredibly durable and full of pockets. Made in the USA . The Environmental Series recycles plastic bottles into the fabric - each bag saving 8 2-liter soda bottles from landing in landfill. This is an all around impressive gift for the techie man in your life.
If your dad is in the market for a camera, check out the Eco-Green special edition of the new Nikon COOLPIX S52, available exclusively from Ritz Camera. This cool camera is more than just green in color: Ritz has partnered with Carbonfund.org
to offset 1.91 tons of carbon dioxide for each one purchased. That number corresponds to the average American’s monthly
carbon footprint according to Carbonfund.org research. Click here to get dad looking through a greener lens.
If your dad is the kind of guy who hits the mountains (or would like to), he will definitely appreciate a durable outdoor-tested boot with a small environmental footprint. These “Earthkeepers” Boots from tried-and-true Timberland feature a lining made of recycled materials, an outsole comprised of 30%
recycled rubber and uppers constructed with organic canvas. The
leather hang-tag up-cycles as a wristband. To get dad out and about in a pair of Earthkeepers, click here.
Sandra’s On Fire!
Date: June 2, 2008 | Category: Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle
Making candles isn’t a new concept, but unfortunately long ago petroleum-based paraffin became the defacto wax of choice. Realizing this is a poor substitute for the more natural and long burning alternatives, many burners are going back to basics. Bessence is actress Sandra Bullock’s gorgeous new candle collection, which uses a soy-based wax, utilizes lead-free wicks and combines plant and flower essential oils to create four luxurious scents - that boast 50 hours of clean burning pleasure. The packaging, besides being beautiful, is made from recycled materials with non-toxic inks. Looks like Sandra is doing more than just acting like she cares about the planet.
Green Globetrotting With Ecofabulous
Date: May 20, 2008 | Category: Beauty, Body Care, Holiday & Gift, Lifestyle, Skin Care, Transport, Travel & Leisure
In the quest of the traveler to tread ever so lightly, we’ve gathered it all - from resources and guides to carbon offsets, our favorite destinations, travel accessories and essentials - so that the next time you say “bon voyage,” you can feel assured you’re respecting the globe that you’ll be traipsing over.
ECOFABULOUS DESTINATIONS
This Fiji destination is my all time favorite get away. Besides employing locals and keeping their sustainable traditions alive, the Jean Michel Cousteau Resort helps to protect and revive the surrounding sea. The beautifully appointed bures (individual thatched houses) respect local building practices and utilize Fiji’s own sustainable resources. The villa is so spectacular that it has garnered many awards. The warm and wonderful natives keep everything running…perfectly. Though the diving is a main attraction (after all, this is the soft coral capital of the world), the reef walks and boat excursions are exhilarating and informative. And the food. Oh the food. The Indian-influenced fusion cuisine is to be envied internationally. JMCR is undeniably romantic but there is a world class kid’s program that my children rave about continuously!
Located on 400 square miles in the heart of Maasai country, Campi ya Kanzi offers gourmet-quality meals, wildlife tracking with Maasai guides and scenic flights around Kilimanjaro. Not only does the beautiful camp ensure employment, it also supports the Maasai Foundation, which provides a range of health and educational services for locals. The eco-luxe camp combines charcoal-fired cookery with solar power and hot water heaters - a wonderful marriage of traditional life and modern sensibilities. A pretty awesome and honest way to experience Africa.
Contemporary luxury meets sustainable development at the Natural Retreats locations spread throughout the national parks in the UK countryside. As of yet, eco-getaways can be found nestled among nature within Yorkshire Dales, Snowdonia, Lake District and York Moors with plans for ten more sites in the near future. Who ever said the nature explorer couldn’t also bask in luxury - and without a detriment to the environment?
Sacred Sands Guest Retreat brings the sustainability of straw to California’s Joshua Tree vista. This B&B uses straw bale construction - an energy-efficient (excellent insulator), plentiful, non-toxic alternative to conventional construction materials - to create their gorgeous guest rooms. Kick back in your private spa to enjoy the desert sunset and nap in the sun or sleep under the stars on your very own terrace - complete with a meditation platform. Peace.
Located in majestic Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn’s sustainably built 40-room sprawling (read private) property is a coastal dream for romantic, relaxation seekers (the green roofs are extraordinary!). Long touted as one of the best resorts in the world, their new rooms are a model of environmental stewardship with great attention to aesthetics and amenities. Post Ranch supports conservation measures and works to protect the local flora and fauna. Swap your TV and alarm clock for a fireplace and an astronomy lesson at Post Ranch Inn - and a spectacular view of the Pacific. Luxurious spa treatments, a world-renowned restaurant, shaman work and nature walks are just a few of the reasons that guests cannot help returning. Hop in your Prius or Tesla, because it is just modest drive from San Francisco or Los Angeles.
Built of traditional desert materials, foregoing electricity and telephones, Adrere Amellal is a unique lodge in the Siwa Oasis in Western Egypt that is absolutely breathtaking. This earthy destination may blend into its environment, but is marked by distinction: it’s one of the few destinations in the world that has kept an authentic feeling of culture and ecology while providing true luxury.
The Lodge At Sunranch is an incredibly intimate eco-luxury experience in southwestern Montana. Sourcing from local producers and artisans and with a farm-to-table culinary experience, this ranch offers an unusual brand of pampered seclusion nestled in the cinematically breathtaking Madison River Valley. A dude ranch that even true eco-stylistas will tip their hats to.
ECOFABULOUS SPA RETREATS
In need of some serious R&R, holistically speaking? Luckily, the green spa movement is cultivating a growing list of fabulous centers dedicated to reducing their environmental footprint. Think organic and natural skincare products, facilities designed in a way that respect nature, non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning materials and countless measures taken to reduce waste and foster sustainability. Add to that, a relaxing and luxurious experience where nature takes center stage, and your worries will simply melt away (for a week anyhow).
In the spirit of green, here are our domestic picks. For more spas and centers that span the globe, visit the Green Spa Network and the Spa Index.
The Kura Door: Holistic Japanese Spa - With an entirely toxin-free environment realized through chemical-free paints and finishes, untreated wood, bamboo and stone flooring underfoot, building-wide water and air purification systems and 100% natural and organic body and skin care line, the Kura Door in Salt Lake City Utah is as holistic as it is decadent. With unique Japanese-inspired services such as the Green Tea and Ginger Sea Enzyme Body Wrap and the Ofuro Bath, I’m ready to drink it in.
El Monte Sagrado - This Taos, New Mexico retreat goes above and beyond in both style and sustainability. All water is reused to irrigate the grounds via the “living machine” purification system, geothermal and solar provide energy and spa treatments are crafted using indigenous plants, flowers and minerals. Think lush and indulgent with a “beyond organic” twist.
Rancho La Puerta - The world’s first destination spa opened its doors in 1940 in Tecate (on the Mexico/California border) and was lovingly created and designed by two people who firmly believed in habitat conservation, organic farming and sustainable living. These principles have tested time and are only surpassed by the plethora of activities, spa services and exquisite cuisine Rancho La Puerta offers.
GETTING THERE…AND BACK
Chances are you’ll be hitting the friendly skies, boarding a bus or renting a car in your travels: not so CO2 sensitive. As we always say, carbon offsets are not a panacea, but when it comes to travel - we’re offsetters, not foregoers. Purchasing offsets allows you to take responsibility for your decadence and put your dollars towards environmental initiatives, usually tree-planting or renewable energies. For example, a round-trip flight from SFO to JFK (5,165 miles) generates 2,014 lbs of CO2 and will cost you $14.85 to offset through Terrapass. Be wary, not all offsets are created equal: They vary in their environmental effectiveness and legitimacy (and price!). SavingSpecies, Terrapass and Carbon Fund are our tried-and-true favorites.
That said, when vacationing, consider renting bikes instead of cars. Think leisurely ride through the countryside, or whatever beautiful destination you’ve chosen (dirt bikes are messy fun too). A bike ride is sure to be more memorable than a drive anyhow. But if you’re road-tripping it or simply must have four wheels, it’s getting easier and easier to rent a hybrid (though destinations are still limited). Go to Orbitz: Go Green, Save Green to search for available hybrids through all the major rental agencies. And as a last eco-resort, go for those carbon offsets: Enterprise, Alamo and National even offer them to customers.
If you’re in New York, OzoCar is your ticket to green transportation, but in New England or the Bay Area, PlanetTran could be your way to and from the airport. If you’re in LA, Econation is perfect, VIP style. If you’re in Portland, EcoShuttle provides van, limo and shuttle services powered solely with Biodiesel. To read more on “Eco-Friendly Car Rentals, Limos and Taxi Services,” get the rundown from this article at Low Impact Living.
ECO-SSENTIAL TRAVEL GEAR
FOR THE WAITING WANDERER
Bring along a copy of Code Green: Experiences of a Lifetime which includes 82 trips across the globe that range from revisiting old American favorites, such as the Grand Canyon, to researching turtles in Australia. This Lonely Planet “inspirebook” isn’t just for the shoestring backpacker (or the cruise-going countess) - it targets travelers all along the spending spectrum who are interested in positively contributing to the destinations economy and respecting the local culture while expanding their own minds. And is printed on 100% recycled paper with non-GMO soy-based inks.
FOR THE BACTERIA VANQUISHING EXPLORER
You never know when a little hand sanitizer will come in handy. Throw in a travel size of Organic EO Lavender Hand Sanitizer - the best smelling, most effective alternative to the chemically-laden stuff that dominates the market. It comes in a spray and handy wipes if you prefer. EO also has travel sizes of their environmentally friendly, excellent shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion.
FOR THE THIRSTY TRAVELER
Depending on where you’re traveling and the quality of the water, ditch the plastic water bottles and strap on your Sigg or a Kleen Kanteen. Do your part to reduce the 30 million plastic water bottles Americans add to landfill every single day! If the water is questionable however, a travel water filter is your best bet and can have you easily sipping safe H2O from all corners of the globe.
FOR THE FULLY EQUIPPED TRAVEL MAVEN
The Spring/Summer bag collection from LeSportsac designed by one of our favorite sires of fashion Stella McCartney will have you traveling in absolute ecofabulous style. Vegans have always loved this mega bag maven for their fun, leather free alternatives, but here we have a truly eco-friendly line made entirely from recycled materials. Looking for luggage that blends form, function and sustainability? Stella’s got it in the bag.
FOR THE HOTTEST ECOFASHIONISTA ON THE BEACH
Junglegurl’s one-of-a-kind bikinis are a sun goddess’ dream (that’s to say they show a lot of skin). The simple designs utilize designer Natalie Golonka’s vintage fabrics that she’s collected during her extensive world travels, and bring us the chicest eco-friendly bikinis around. You’ll love your body in a Junglegurl suit.
The sun is out and the vacation circuit has begun, but what do you do to protect your eyes without hurting the planet? I recommend a pair of vintage shades, but if you are concerned about the UV protection or cannot find the right look, check out iWood Aviator sunglasses.
I love summer but can’t stand mosquitoes! What is a nature loving, blood protecting girl supposed to do! Sunfeather Bug Off! has come up with a multitude of ways to arm yourself naturally against pests. Using ingredients such as blends of citronella, rosemary, lemongrass and geranium essential oils (all of which are Mother Nature’s insect repellents) Bug Off! makes it easy to put down the deet.
UV Natural Sunscreen. Ranked #1 by the Environmental Working Group, Daryl Hannah bought me my first tube of this awesome Australian product and I haven’t been able to use anything since. Great for both adults and kids, this product is a must have in your travel kit (they also have child-specific options).
FOR THE HUNGRY, HEALTHY ADVENTURER
Pack in the One Lucky Duck Snack Sampler for emergency nibbles on the go. They are raw, incredibly delicious, organic vegan treats made by the proprietor of Pure Food and Wine, the hippest raw restaurant in New York. The macaroons (blonde or chocolate) are particularly yummy and satiating, but the rest are mouth watering as well.
FOR THE GEEKOFABULOUS TREKKER
Wherever their is sunlight - whether kayaking down the Nile, meditating in an Indian ashram or sailing through the Caribbean - no need to be at the mercy of the grid when you need to bust out the laptop or charge your MP3s and mobiles. Not when we’re toting around portable SolarRolls and generating electricity that can power any number of devices at your convenience. It’s a thrill to just roll those photovoltaic cells out and plug into the sun’s pure, unadulterated energy.
Make sure you check out the HYmini handheld, hybrid power station for your 5-volts (like mp3s, mobiles, PDAs and cameras). With the ability to harness wind-power, sun-power (using their miniSOLARSs) and plain, old wall-power - you can pretty much guarantee that no matter where you are in the world, you can keep your devices running. This is a gadget for your gadgets!
WANT MORE… ECOFABULOUS’ FAVORITE ONLINE DESTINATIONS FOR GREEN TRAVEL
itsagreenworld.com is a global listing of eco-friendly hospitality destinations
greenglobetrotter.blogspot.com is a one-woman blog chock-full of great info and resources
sustainabletravelinternational.org provides the tool for those who really want to get schooled in eco-travel
gobeyondgreen.org is up to date on the latest in environmetally-friendly and eco-progressive travel
About EcoFabulous
Founded by green design guru Zem Joaquin, ecofabulous.com is the online destination for sexy, sustainable style.
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