Sophyto Organics - Sustainable Skin Care

With eye-catching, colorful advertisements, Sophyto Organics demands attention in the competitive world of organic skin care. Founded in 2000, the growing product line includes a satisfying range of ethical, sustainable cosmetics and skin care that's also received a registered vegan and PETA seal of approval. As one of Elle's 2009 Green Stars for 'Best Anti Aging Treatment' (Polyphenol Skin Drops), we're not the only ones singing the praises of Sophyto Organics. From mentions in Shape, People, Yahoo Health to EcoQueen Magazine in Sweden, this 'Brit organic' company is impressive all around the board. Products with Natural Age Defying Ingredients In an effort to preserve your beauty and do so without adding harsh chemicals, fillers, parabens, and artificial fragrances – Sophyto Organics offers a skin care regimen packed with complex vitamins, minerals and natural plant components. From dual action exfoliation to bioactive toners, Sophyto Organics blends understated packaging with lively pops of color. A sample of products include: * Purify & Energise Super Bioactive: Providing a pH adjusting solution, tap into the power of healthy plant nutrients that work to cleanse and rejuvenate complexions in dire need of restoration. Use Purify & Energise Super Bioactive to treat inflamed or sensitive skin – perfect for chemotherapy patients and users who have recently undergone skin treatments, such as microdermabrasion. Infusing the skin with organic bioactive phyto-nutrients, such as B2, B6, B12, C and E, 99% of this product contains organically produced natural ingredients. * Mega Omegas Day Face Moisturiser: The non-oily formula of the Mega Omegas Day Face Moisturiser especially assists in uplifting mature or very dry skin. Sophyto Organics suggests using the moisturizer as a "hydrating primer" before applying your liquid or mineral cosmetics. Offering a healthy burst of polyunsaturated fatty Acids (PUFAs): omega-3, omega-6, omega-9, linoleic acid and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), the product works to enhance elasticity and the overall look of your skin. Other ingredients include organic aloe vera, jojoba oil, and shea butter. * Marine Peptide Brightening Treatment: Offering a blend of organic ingredients, such as aloe vera leaf juice and Japanese micro-algae, the Marine Peptide Brightening Treatment adds a healthy glow to your complexion – prefect for repairing damaged skin due to excessive sun exposure. The treatment aims to draw out impurities, reduce pore size, and improve elasticity. You walk away with clean, clear skin that continues to combat the effects of environmental and other pollutants. Eco-Friendly Highlights Sophyto Organics stands by a commitment "to sustain and improve the health of our body and planet." All products contain an average of 95% organically produced agricultural ingredients. Thanks to certified suppliers, the company uses raw materials that support fair trade practices with local farmers and businesses in Bulgaria, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar, Nepal, Italy, India, Somalia, and South Africa. From start to finish, the production of Sophyto Organics aids in developing ecologically responsible production, processing, and distribution. Sophyto Organics also embraces green business practices in their production facilities – centering on ecologically sound waste management, organic manufacturing, sustainable development, conservation, protection of natural resources, biodegradability, and recycling waste. Animal lovers can also wear Sophyto Organics with confidence since the cruelty-free skin care does not use animals in the testing of their products. Image Credits: Sophyto Organics

Become a Kid at the Natural Candy Store

Getting lost in the sugary enchantment of the first 100% natural candy store is quite easy with an assortment of hard candy, chocolate, and other treats that tickle your sweet tooth with organic, fair-trade, vegan, and natural ingredients. Explore the Natural Candy Store and you'll find all-natural breath mints made from organic crystallized cane juice, organic Vermont maple syrup, and chai tea. The candy store also offers a fascinating collection of international delights. Click further to see vegan marshmallows, fair trade chocolate sauce, and natural herbal licorice candy. Become a kid in the candy store and explore the sweet treats and benefits of a family-run green business that provides the largest selection of natural and organic candy. The Natural Candy Store actively seeks out recycled and biodegradable supplies, such as using home-compostable cellophane bags to package their bulk candy. They also support fair-trade practices and businesses. A few sweet standouts include: Turkish Delight Awaken your taste buds with a variety of interesting selections of Turkish Delight – a jelly-like confection comprised of starch, sugar, and other natural ingredients. Indulge in the taste of Manuka Honey (from New Zealand) and Rainforest Lemon Turkish Delight made with vegan sugar, wheat starch, manuka honey, and lemon myrtle oil. The Natural Candy Store also offers the following exotic Turkish delight flavors: Licorice, Pomegranate, Honey and Hazelnut, Citrus, Rose, and Christmas – a blend of holiday spices and orange peel. Organic Jellybeans Made in the USA, Surf Sweets produces a mix of USDA certified organic jellybeans consisting of organic evaporated cane juice, organic tapioca syrup, organic grape juice concentrate, and other natural flavors. While the jellybeans are considered vegetarian, they may not completely satisfy vegan expectations due to the confectioner's glaze. Comes in five flavors: Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange, Cherry and Grape. Organic Fruit Lollipops Mix Pure Fun is a new company responsible for churning out a deliciously satisfying line of organic hard candy, including an assortment of colorful, tasty lollipops. With about 70 individually wrapped pieces per pound, you'll enjoy bursts of lemon, green apple, watermelon, tangerine, and pomegranate in their USDA certified organic lollipops made with organic evaporated cane juice, organic rice syrup, natural coloring and flavors. French Candy The Natural Candy Store offers exotic delights, including a handful of French sweets like the Montelimar Nougat Bar (made by Arnaud Soubeyran), which offers French honey nougat styled in a soft confection. Arnaud Soubeyran has a reputation for making delicious nougat since 1837 using Provence almonds and honey from the Alps to produce the highest quality. Ingredients include lavender honey, pistachios, and natural vanilla aroma. The Natural Candy Store also offers Arnaud Soubeyran's Calissons de Provence – traditional marzipan-like confections from Provence with a slightly chewy texture. One box includes 12 candied Cavaillon melon pieces mixed with whole almonds, sugar, and a hint of orange rind. Fudge Sea Salt Caramel Crumbly Fudge (made by Burnt Sugar) is a fairly new treat offering a blend of sweet and saltiness. Take care in knowing that this English-style crumbly fudge contains fair trade golden sugar, golden syrup, whole milk powder, and clotted cream. When purchasing this fudge, you support the Kasinthula co-operative in Malawi, which grows the unrefined, fair-trade certified sugar. Another fudgy option comes from Earth's Sweet Treasures – considered one of the first options in 100% USDA certified organic fudge. This traditional chocolate-walnut blend takes full advantage of fine organic ingredients (like vanilla and marshmallow crème) and fair trade chocolate. Toffee Elaine's Toffee Company uses a family recipe to create a flavorful Dark Chocolate Almond Toffee made in the USA. Dark chocolate coats buttery almond toffee with a dusting of crushed pecans. Crunchy and tender all at the same time, you'd swear Grandma made it. Burnt Sugar also offers their Squidgy Toffees at the Natural Candy Store, which supply a delicious mix of unrefined fair-trade sugars heightened with a hint of balsamic vinegar. Image Credits: Natural Candy Store

Zocalo Cafe: Community, Earth-Minded Coffeehouse

Here’s a concept – build a planet-friendly coffee shop that strengthens community ties and serves up in-house roasted brews and specialty teas. You might say it's been done before, but does it compare to the Zocalo Coffeehouse – the only certified green café in San Leandro, California? This independent, locally owned establishment and roastery is open 365 days a year, standing by a commitment that the people and planet come before the product. Green Efforts The green efforts of Zocalo begin with choices to reduce the coffeehouse's impact on the environment. Beyond embracing recycled-content paper goods, coffeehouse employees take great strides to recycle their organic, plastic, glass, metal, and paper waste. In the bathroom, motion-detection lighting saves energy, while low-flow toilets and faucet aerators conserve water. The home-office runs on solar power and the coffeehouse gets from point A to point B using a hybrid vehicle. Additionally, the "walkable" location of the coffeehouse encourages less congestion and pollution, as it is situated in a convenient downtown setting. To reduce the use of plastic bottled water, tap water is offered to patrons for free. Order a serving of organically grown, fair trade coffee and it's served in organically recyclable corn-based "plastic" cups. You may also take advantage of a 10-cent discount offered to coffee drinkers who use their own or reuse a Zocalo cup. Exotic Edibles and Drinkables While the majority of coffeeshops offer muffins, bagels and exotic pastries to accompany their Mocha Javas and Double Shot Espressos, Zocalo Café additionally presents a selection of healthier options, such as ginger drinks, Moroccan hummus, and plantain chips from Soleil's African Kitchen. With an SFGate Drink of the Week already under the belt, you'll enjoy the Mango Ginger, Passionfruit Ginger, Hibiscus, and Ginger Lemonade offered at Zocalo. Rent the Coffeehouse When planning an evening event, Zocalo Coffeehouse offers their space for your festivities and special occasions. Providing safe and clean surroundings, plan your next surprise birthday party, formal dinner, or company fundraiser at Zocalo. Events start as early as 7pm and can run as late as 11pm with complimentary brewed coffee. For the Community Stepping inside Zocalo is like visiting a relative. The atmosphere produces a positive energy with plenty of inviting features to take advantage of. The family-friendly kids play area allows parents to unwind, while their kiddies unwind. The baby changing station in the restroom is prepared for life's natural interruptions. Check your email or conduct research surrounded by the scent of fresh coffee with the complimentary wireless Internet access. Stay competitive at the game table or simply browse the selection of magazines available for reading. Zocalo also hosts and participates in annual community events, such as the Halloween Safe Streets Safe Treat; local author book signings; the yearly Annual Arts & Crafts Fundraiser; and the San Leandro Cherry Festival. The coffeehouse also presents the San Leandro Community Action Network's Monthly Film Series. And last but not least, what coffeehouse provides their patrons with a JavaGym? This space offers classes for the community, ranging from Spinning, Pilates and Kickboxing to the Spanish Language for Kids. No wonder the café earned SFGate Best Coffee Shop in Bay Area in 2008. If you live in the region or plan on stopping by the neighborhood, don't forget to indulge in the luxury of community-centered brews at: Zocalo Coffeehouse 645 Bancroft Ave (at Dutton Ave) San Leandro CA 94577 (510) 569-0102 Hours Monday-Friday (6am to 6pm) Saturdays (7am to 6pm) Sundays (8am to 6pm) Image Credits: Zocalo

Business: 12 Steps to Turning Green

While more and more businesses implement eco-friendly practices, there are many companies that feel 'going green' is too much of an expense or too difficult. As a company owner or entrepreneur, you may not want to go through massive overhauls to reduce your carbon footprint. However, there are many small steps companies can take to make a huge difference. Below are 12 simple steps any business can take to become more eco-friendly. 1. Get Rid of Paper Checks Rather than paying employees with paper checks, utilize a third party payment system such as PayPal. Recipients get paid as soon as you click 'send,' and there is no need for a printed check. Statements come right to your inbox, and records of transactions are kept so that you can keep track of incoming and outgoing payments. 2. No More Paper Literature Whether it's an office memo, a brochure for customers or a company policy - these things typically get printed on paper. Use alternative options such as sending an email, creating PDF documents or providing a link to an online copy of the company policy. 3. Stop Computer All-Nighters Have employees completely shut down computers at night before leaving the office. Many companies leave computer systems up and running, sucking electricity and wasting energy. It only takes a few seconds to get the computer started again, and the effort helps save money and conserves energy. 4. Promote Recycling Simply by placing a few large containers in a corner somewhere and clearly labeling them, offices can get started recycling. Owners might consider placing paper bins near desks while offering plastic recycling containers in the conference room or lunch room to make it even easier on employees. 5. Recycle eWaste Along with paper and plastics, companies can easily recycle electronic products to make a difference. Simply locate an eWaste recycling center in your area and organize an office recycling effort. Anything from old cell phones to printer cartridges and computer parts can be recycled this way. Visit eRecycle.org's Recycler Search to learn more. 6. Packaging Products If your company must package items for customers, do what you can to reduce waste. Use as little packaging materials as possible, and if possible, use recycled packaging. Not only will it make your company greener, but customers will notice your efforts as well and this is a great way to build a reputation for being environmentally responsible. 7. Cleaning the Office Whether the office is cleaned by a member of the staff or an outside cleaning service, request that it be cleaned with all-natural products. A vinegar and water mixture is as effective as a typical spray cleanser that is filled with chemicals and potentially dangerous ingredients. This is a positive step for the health of office employees, as well. 8. Encourage Carpooling While this choice will ultimately be up to the employees, companies can encourage carpooling to and from work, as well as to and from lunch. 9. Switch to Energy-Saving Lightbulbs It's easy and fast to switch to energy-saving lightbulbs, and while this step helps companies 'go green,' it also helps them save green. Energy-saving lightbulbs can help reduce expenses and decrease utility bills. Find out what kind of energy-saving bulbs you need! 10. Low-Flow Toilets Have low-flow toilets installed in the office bathroom(s). These kinds of toilets use a fraction of the water typically used to flush, and aren't expensive to obtain. If you don't want to shell out the price of a new toilet, place a small brick in the back of existing toilets at work to help save water. 11. Water-Saving Faucets Install water-saving faucets to cut down on the amount of water being used every time an employee makes coffee, washes their hands, etc. 12. Utilize Recycled Materials Offices can make a huge difference by utilizing recycled materials rather than purchasing new ones. This method can be used for office furniture, electronics and much more. Join your local Freecycle group, where used items of all kinds can be obtained. While these practices are small and very easy to implement, they can make a very large difference in the amount of energy and other resources used around the office. Encourage your employees to take part in a greener company today - and start by giving them a great example! Learn more about greening your business. Image Courtesy of www.pleasantrees.com

Eco-Friendly Resort - Wilderness at the Smokies

There's a green business on the block making waves and depending on the guest(s), the establishment promises a fun-filled family excursion or relaxing vacation getaway. Wilderness at the Smokies (located in Sevierville, Tennessee) offers a mixture of upscale amenities and rustic mountain charm nestled in a luxurious setting. As travelers come from near and wide to visit the resort, I'm wondering just how many people know about the waterland's commitment to preserving the environment and providing a more earth-friendly experience. The Amazing Texlon Roof The Wilderness at the Smokies waterparks have been attracting guests of all ages to the resort. Surrounded by live tropical flora, the appeal of a suntan in the wintertime, and entertaining water attractions, the indoor waterpark transports you into a different realm of fun. Just some of the excitement to look forward to includes tube slides, surf rider, wave pool, and multi-leveled water play feature. Interestingly, upon entering the Wild WaterDome, the atmosphere is comparable to a perfect summer day – even in the winter season. Thanks to the see-through Texlon roof placed over the waterpark, natural sunlight and UV rays pour into the 60,000 square-foot complex. Because of this roof, guests can work on their tan all year-round, real plants grow indoors, and the resort enjoys reduced energy consumption. The Texlon roof not only enhances the overall experience of guests, but also:

• Lowers electric consumption by foregoing artificial lighting during the day
• Uses 300 to 400 less therms of natural gas per day to heat the indoor waterpark
• Has a built-in ventilation system that circulates more air in the summer months
• Reduces the resort's need for air conditioning

Accommodations The Stone Hill Lodge provides easy access to the Sevierville Event Center and Salamander Springs outdoor waterpark. Choose one of more than 240 hotel accommodations and enjoy natural upscale furnishings with a 'mountain-modern' décor and access to luxurious amenities, such as flat screen televisions, refrigerators, and microwaves. Connected to the Wild WaterDome indoor waterpark and Lake Wilderness outdoor waterpark, there are more than 400 rooms found at the Smokies River Lodge, including one- and two-bedroom suites, balcony access, fireplaces, sofa sleepers, and fully furnished kitchens. For large traveling families, the River Lodge offers a suite that accommodates up to 15 people. Keep in mind that all rooms at the Stone Hill Lodge and Smokies River Lodge provide unlimited access to resort waterparks and amenities. Have Fun with Ripley's or... During your stay at the Wilderness, take the time to visit Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies or one of the other fascinating Ripley's attractions (Believe it or Not Museum, Haunted Adventure, Moving Theater, Davy Crockett Mini-Golf, Old MacDonald’s Farm Mini-Golf, and Marvelous Mirror Maze). While staying at the resort, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. You could test out the treadmills and weight machine at the onsite Fitness Center, get competitive at the Arcade, or enjoy a round of golf at Eagle's Landing. Soak in the 1,000-foot Magnolia Grove Hot Tub. Browse the retail shops for a perfect souvenir. When hungry, dine at the Hidden Trails restaurant or the Thirsty Miner Grill. Other Eco-Friendly Features As a member of the Green Hotels Association, Wilderness at the Smokies goes beyond their earth-friendly waterpark features and supports an array of green features and practices found throughout the rest of the resort, including:

• Tinted windows in guest rooms reduce energy consumption
• Motion-sensing towel dispensers reduce paper usage
• Energy Star rated appliances and kitchen equipment
• Energy-saving compact florescent lighting
• State-of-the-art key-controlled occupancy sensors turn on lights and HVAC system to save electricity

For more information on the Wilderness at the Smokies resort or to make reservations, visit www.wildernessatthesmokies.com or call 1-800-867-WILD (9453). Photo Credits: Wilderness at the Smokies

Pamper Your Pets with Safe, Natural Edibles

In order to contribute to a long, happy life for pets, an increasing amount of owners are turning towards the magic of natural, eco-friendly, and holistic pet food. While natural edibles for pets typically cost more, gourmet selections achieve much more than pampering a pet. A healthier combination of ingredients has the power to extend the life of pets, as well as prevent medical conditions, like cancer, allergies, and arthritis. Below you will find a list of luxury pet foods finding innovative ways to safely please the palate and maintain the health of our furry companions. Innova Holistic Dog and Cat Food From the Nutrient-Enhanced Innova Flex stews to tasty solutions for overweight dogs, Innova takes full advantage of healthy ingredients found in the meat, dairy, vegetables, fruit and grain food groups. Combined with essential fats and oils, this pet food brand packs quite a nutritional punch for your dog or cat. I'd also like to point out a unique addition to Innova pet foods – their use of Vitamin E for natural preservation. This essential antioxidant is known to fight free radicals, as well as protect cells and tissues from damage. When mixed with Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) and rosemary extract, Vitamin E is an impressive, all-natural food preservative. A few Innova pet products to consider include:

• Low Fat Adult Dry Dog Food: Containing 35% less fat than other adult brands, dogs also benefit from the combination of fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, dairy and grains.
• Large Breed Senior Flex Beef & Barley Stew: With added DHA and EPA, older dogs obtain an extra boost to improve brain function, as well as receive more fiber that aids in digestion.
• Innova Cat Treats: Offers healthy ingredients representing all essential food groups, important fatty acids, fresh-farm ingredients, and a rich source of Vitamin E.

Karma Organic Food for Dogs With the motto," Good for the Body. Good for the Soul. Good for the Environment." – how can you resist the luxury line of dry dog food and treats by Karma Organic. Using the highest quality ingredients, this company has created an organic brand of "super-premium dog food." You just can't ignore the health factor of using 95% USDA-Certified Organic ingredients. Absent of artificial preservatives, flavorings and fillers, Karma Organic Food is filled with organic oats, brown rice, and free-range organic chicken. Other ingredients include organic blueberries, carrots, and spinach. The whole, raw fruits and vegetables contained in the dog food delivers an anti-aging boost of nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals. In addition to its organic qualities, Karma Organic also adheres to the strictest of manufacturing standards in an effort to place less strain on the environment. California Natural Pet Food California Natural Pet Food offers a wide selection of natural dog food, cat food, puppy food, and dog treats that doesn’t rely on fillers, by-products or artificial preservatives to make their brand tasty. Instead, they use wholesome, unrefined pet food ingredients that aim to prevent allergic reactions or agitate pets with sensitive stomachs. If you're looking for one of the best hypoallergenic pet food brands on the market, look no further than California Natural Pet Food. A sample of their products include:

• Lamb Meal & Rice Adult Large Bites: Dry dog food using 100% lamb meal combined with white and brown rice, and sunflower oil.
• Herring & Sweet Potato Adult: Dry dog food offering highly digestible herring for protein and essential fats with a boost in nutrients and fiber from sweet potato. A salmon and sweet potato option is also available.
• Venison & Brown Rice: This interesting canned cat and kitten food mixture is sure to satisfy the pickiest the eaters.

Mother Nature Healthy Dog Treats When Fido masters a new trick or simply bats his big brown eyes at you, a healthy dog treat is in order. Mother Nature Natural Dog Biscuits is the perfect way to reward your pooch with a flavorful, gourmet assortment packed with nutritional benefits. When you hear just some of the selections available, you'll be surprised that these natural dog treats are especially made just for dogs. Options include:

• 4 Way Treat: Apples, cheese, chicken and turkey help keep teeth and gums healthy.
• Beef Stew: A blend of genuine sirloin beef and fresh vegetables.
• Buffalo Stew: A delectable combination of buffalo meat and stone ground grains.
• Carrot Cakes: A refreshing break from the norm with fresh carrots, molasses, real butter and milk.
• Chicken & Turkey: Real ground chicken and turkey mixed with whole cranberries and fresh carrots.
• Honey Glazed Chicken: Heighten your dogs taste buds with real ground chicken, real honey, whole apples and a touch of cinnamon.

EVO Premium Pet Food Interested in feeding your pet a raw food diet? Gently prepared with love and concern for our four-legged friends, EVO Premium Pet Food boasts the "first grain-free ancestral diet" that offers modern nutritional benefits with natural ingredients that have been safely cooked. Providing pet owners with a complete and balanced natural approach to feeding dogs, cats, and even ferrets, take care in knowing that EVO pet food is grain-free, contains high-quality meats, and possesses the highest protein content of any meat-based dry pet food on the market. With the Red Meat Large Bites dry dog food, your pet will enjoy four different red meat selections –beef, lamb, buffalo, and venison. EVO canned dog food selections include 95% beef, chicken, turkey, venison, duck, and rabbit. For cats, choose canned food that includes 95% chicken, turkey, and duck without the fillers and grains that other pet meals contain. When feeding your ferret, choose dry food that supplies a high protein, low carbohydrate diet comprised of raw food ingredients. Image Credits: Naturapet

Greening Your Office Space

Back from maternity leave or starting a new job – why not take a step in an earth-friendly direction by greening your office space? From sticky note holders made out of recycled scrap steel to all-natural bamboo chair mats that create luxuriously sleek surroundings, Bambeco offers a variety of items to make an eco-friendly return or entrance into the workplace much easier. To find inspiration, consider some of the green office goods listed below: Recycled Cotton Desk Organizer What better way to increase your productivity than with enhanced organization? This stylish seven-piece desk set looks like fine leather at first glance, but is really constructed from recycled cotton rescued from the clothing industry. Jot important notes in the journal. Keep abreast on the latest news by storing periodicals in the magazine holder. Keep sharpened pencils at attention in an elegant holder. Available in black or brown. Price: $114.95 Rubber Wood Organizer There's nothing worse than sifting through the bottom of your desk for paper clips or looking for the disk containing essential information. Store all of your most important desk accessories in this organizer, which is made out of rubber trees – a sustainable, renewable natural resource that continues to create furniture and other products once all of the latex has been completely extracted. Rubber wood remnants destined for a life of waste are used to make the organizers. At home, this organizer doubles as a holder for recipe cards, photos, and sewing supplies. Available in Grey and Multicolored. Price: $120.00 Recycled Cardboard Desk Organizer Made of 100% recycled material and free of toxic chemicals or bleaches, this honeycomb cell structure is comprised of recycled cardboard. Try dressing your office with an eye-catching penholder that offers many different possibilities – from platter or bowl to fancy table-top decor. Thanks to lightweight fibers, this organizer offers a highly durable structure. Price: $31.00 Penguin & Rooster Recycled PETE Messenger Bag This funky and cool messenger bag is stylishly functional. You'd never know that it was made from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles. Perfect for those who love members of the feathered species, make your commute to the office a greener experience with this accommodating carryall. Store your cell phone and water bottle in the side pocket. Enjoy the adjustable, padded shoulder strap for ultimate comfort. Choose from blue, orange and olive. Price: $49.00 Recycled Bicycle Chain Bowl Want an irresistible conversation piece for the office? Consider the allure of recycled bicycle chains, which still have a great amount of life and use left. Offering a classic weave pattern with clean lines, this bowl provides an impressive centerpiece or nifty holder for your keys. Price: $86.00 Bentley Briefcase Attractive and stylish, this briefcase is handcrafted from reclaimed truck inner tubes and aptly named a 'Bentley' bag. Use it to tote your laptop or carry your important papers. Features include 1 ½ " wide adjustable and detachable seatbelt shoulder strap, handle, inside pocket, and two adjustable front spring hook closures. Price: $145.00 When looking to further green your office, don't forget to check out other products and goods offered at Bambeco – like the Recycled Cotton Photobox or a Root Table. Photo Credits: Bambeco

VivaTerra – Living in Harmony with Nature

Helping consumers live a healthy life and make the world a better place for future generations, VivaTerra (which translates into 'living earth') is dedicated to marketing products that promote a harmonious existence with nature. Supporting VivaTerra means embracing a company committed to delivering high-quality, organic, sustainable products that highlight eco-friendly materials, designs, and intent. Below, enjoy just a sampling of what you can find on the VivaTerra website: Home & Garden Filled with lighting options, outdoor décor, and door mats made out of recycled flip flops, VivaTerra offers an extensive roster of home and garden products, including the eye-catching, wooden birdcage design shown above – perfect for bird lovers. The Birdcage Lamp makes a grand conversation piece and comes complete with a sliding door and bottom. Please note that this lamp works well with energy-saving 13-watt CFL bulbs. Eco-Accents When looking for a fresh and earth-friendly way to decorate your home, Vivaterra is filled with candleholders, glass lamps, lanterns, and hand-embroidered pillows. Other eco-friendly décor to consider includes the Boatwood Clock (made from dismantled Thai fishing boats) and the Round Stone Mat (a collection of flat stones polished by natural waters). Kitchen & Dining Whether you're entertaining your next dinner party or wish to add centerpiece excitement to your dining room table, VivaTerra has an assortment of kitchen décor to choose from, as well as flatware, recycled glassware, and this attractive Entwined Leaf Candelabra. Surrounded by metal limbs with sprouting leaves that stretch out to display nine recycled glass cups, it's easy to enhance your ambiance with the addition of decorative tapers or seat tealights. Bed, Bath & Spa VivaTerra also helps consumers add an extra special touch to their bed and bath settings. With the Ivory & Gold Suzani Bench, it's hard to ignore the beauty of antique, decorative tribal textiles made in Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and other Central Asian countries. As part of the VivaTerra eco suzani collection, this striking bench is comprised of 100% organic cotton, eco-friendly dyes, and sustainable sheesham wood. Fashioned from rejected cans and containers, you may choose to decorate your room with brightly textured tin letters that provide inspiration and certainly liven up your surroundings. Joining the Misprint "Dream" Letters, you will find kitchen and gardening themes, such as 'eat,' 'grow,' and 'go! green.' Women's Department With handbags, jewelry, and clothing, VivaTerra also carries goods made specifically with the earth-friendly woman in mind. Just one of the VivaTerra standouts in the women's department includes the Hand-Embroidered Organic Cotton Rabbit Bag. Easily impress your friends with alluring pre-historic animal designs decorating 100% organic cotton bags. A couple of bag features to note include a pouch for phone or glasses, and decorative fringed sash. Photo Credits: VivaTerra

Ecco Ultra Lounge: First Green Nightclub in L.A.

If Mother Nature had to choose a place to let down her hair and kick up her heels, she'd probably head to Los Angeles, where the Ecco Ultra Lounge is known as the first eco-friendly certified nightlife venue in the United States. With energy-efficient LED lighting and delicious organic cocktails, the Ecco Lounge has taken great strides in providing an earth-friendly hot spot to dance the night away. Step inside the eco-club located on 1640 North Cahuenga Blvd and you may find Nicole Ritchie chatting it up with the Madden brothers or Hayden Panettiere shedding her 'Heroes' alter ego. With all of the environmentally conscious buzz the club has attracted over the past year, hopefully some of the Ecco's features will encourage other establishments to take a more green approach with their club venues. Ecco's Eco-Features The earth-friendly practices of Ecco take place even before some guests step inside the club. Partygoers that arrive in a Prius or any other energy-efficient vehicle can take care in knowing that their VIP treatment starts with free valet parking. Once inside, you’re greeted by one of the most talked-about features of the Ecco Ultra Lounge – the multi-hued, energy-efficient, state-of-the-art LED lighting system that sets the scene for a night filled with soy-cured organic salmon and infectious DJ-spun music. Before the night is out, hit the square dance floor located between the DJ booth and bar for an exhilarating sensation of being in the center of it all. Everything from the paint on the walls to the cemented floor takes the environment into consideration. Other eco-features of the Ecco Ultra Lounge include:

• Appetizers and entrees made fresh with organic chicken from the farmer's market
• Waterless urinal and energy efficient recycled steel air pressure toilets
• The use of Paperless Solution to satisfy their reservations and ticketing needs
• Power from LA Department of Water & Power's Green Power resources
• Bathrooms outfitted with cutting-edge "Dyson Airblades" hand dryers
• No air conditioning – just cold and heat insulation, which saves 20% of standard energy use

Thirsty? 'Amazing' and 'delicious' are just some of the ways guests of the Ecco Lounge have described their drinks of the night. Shots cost on the average of $10, while a trio of Budweisers may run you $26. Some guests have easily paid close to $100 for a handful of mixed drinks. While the club is known to provide a bevy of pricey beverages, the organic cocktails have been the talk of the town.

• The "Drunken Watermelon Pop" offers a combination of fresh cubes of watermelon, vodka, vanilla beans, and a hint of Chambord.
• Do your body and skin a favor and indulge in a healthy boost of the antioxidant-rich "Pomegranate and Brazilian Acai Berry Mojito."
• Mixing 360 eco-friendly vodka, Moet Chandon, and acai juice, treat your taste buds to the "Sparkling Acai."

If you'd like to have your next birthday party, private or corporate event, movie premiere, or record release party at the Ecco Ultra Lounge, contact bookings @ eccohollywood.com. Image Credit: Jim Pease (b)

Batucada Designs - Eco-Plastic Jewelry

Wrap your body in French eco-allure with necklaces and bracelets fashioned from a synthetic rubbery substance meant to stand the test of time. Strong, flexible, and resistant to seawater, Batucada designs are responsible for combining earth-friendly certified components that contain no phthalates. Since the designs stay flat on the skin, the wearer gives off the illusion of displaying eye-catching, intricate tattoos. This concept is known as 'eco-plastic' with high-quality selections sold in Asia, Europe, and across America. With a Batucada design, you may truly feel like a chameleon, as the extremely lightweight jewelry adheres to the contours of the body. Necklaces and bracelets actually possess the ability to remember the shape of your wrist, neck and other parts of the body, which helps to create a perfect fit. It's almost like slipping into a second skin – one that highlights sustainable beauty. Some say you'll never know that you're wearing your jewelry; it's so light that it even floats. The versatility of Batucada jewelry is boundless, as it captures your ever-changing moods. Creative minds attach two bracelets from end to end to form a distinct choker necklace. Bracelets are also sometimes worn on the ankle. In some cases, joining a handful of bracelets together can also create an appealing belt. No matter what you do, ill-fitting pieces can be repaired with a snip of the scissors. Washing Batucada designs is also easy, as it only takes mild soap and water to revamp its appearance. Ready for casual activities or fancy get-togethers, designs are molded into functional and lux-fashion masterpieces. Buyers of Batucada necklaces and bracelets have worn their designs to business meetings, gym workouts, romps on the beach, and nights out on the town. With a range of colorful shapes, sizes, and designs, Batucada produces sustainable fashion that creates a tattoo-like appearance for people interesting in elaborate jewelry or who simply wish to take a walk on the wild or expressive side. For example, step out on the scene with all eyes on your blood red necklace from the Oriental Batucada collection. Other collections use the countryside, rock and roll, and tropical gardens for inspiration. Besides jewelry, Batucada also uses their eco-plastic to design, create, and manufacture fashion accessories and other decorative items, such as attractive placemats in colors of black, blue, purple, green, and pink. Image Credit: Batucada

Spring into a New Pair of Eco-Shoes

With bright skies and warmer weather, it's hard to resist the onslaught of eco-footwear geared towards the spring and summer season. Using recycled plastics, natural dyes, and synthetic leather, the sandals and heels below are not only stylishly sustainable, but also take part in ethical manufacturing and donate to eco-friendly charities. Hetty Rose When you're looking for a one-of-a-kind shoe, you should consider the fashionable creations of Hetty Rose (shown above). With ties that enclose the foot and hand stitching that elevates the overall presentation of the shoe, the Maya possesses a wooden heel surrounded by vintage kimono textile fabric. If you're interested, all Hetty Rose shoes are made to fit the size and material of your choice. Simply choose from a selection of vintage Japanese fabrics for your next spring or summer shoe bursting with color. Strap Sandals and Heels by Sui Generis Saturated in class and elegance, the sandals and heels of the Sui Generis line from Beyond Skin is perfect for a night out on the town or attending an event where you truly wish to impress. To tempt your exclusive tastes, Beyond Skin is committed to trading "in a manner that is non-exploitative to humans, animals and wherever possible the wider environment." The Sui Generis line also goes beyond the typical sustainable practices often associated with shoe-making by embracing recycled packaging and donating a percentage of profits to a range of ethical charities. Puma Sandals – Neuaura Hailing from Brazil, Neuaura produces a dazzling eco-footwear line, including this eye-catching silver thong sandal entirely fashioned from synthetic leather. Look out for other selections from Neuaura, a company that recycles all material factory waste, prefers water-based adhesives, frowns upon toxic solvents and chooses less harmful materials. The company also supports as many local products when possible. Alexa Boot by Cri de Coeur Sometimes you just need a stylish, open-toed boot to make a statement. The Cri De Coeur line is "entirely free of animal products, and as environmentally friendly as technology will allow." Quite popular with eco-fashionistas, Cri de Coeur is devoted to educating consumers about the real impact that fashion choices make on the lives of humans, animals, and the planet. In an effort to offset the carbon emissions that they cannot avoid, Cri De Coeur has also partnered with thecarbonfund.org and will also plant a tree for every pair of shoes sold. The Alexa boot (shown here) is a cut-out zipper open toe selection (Desert Sand Canvas with Midnight black accents). Check out the Spring 2009 collection here. Terra Plana A fashionable pair of heels can truly enhance your overall look and what better footwear to choose than heels with sustainability? Terra Plana offers a line of shoes that also takes into consideration the health of your feet by providing recycled memory foam in the insoles. This comfortable fit is paired with vegetable-tanned leathers to create a product you don’t have to feel guilty about. If you're looking for a unique answer to the question, "where did you get those shoes from?" Consider the Melito pumps – made from recycled Pakistani quilts.

Best (& Worst) Green Efforts: Electronics Companies

If you're the type of person that keeps the good of the environment in mind when purchasing electronics, you may want to check with Greenpeace the next time you're eyeing the latest Mac or looking for a new cell phone. From lowing e-waste to not using harmful chemicals to make products, more electronics companies are making a commitment to change the way they do business. Let's take a look at a few earth-friendly winners and losers in the electronics world, and their policies concerning toxic substances, energy use, recycling and climate change. Green Policy Winners Nokia (7.5) Greenpeace has rewarded Nokia with the cream of the crop ranking for best green business policies because of their recent CO2 emissions reduction targets. Spanning 84 countries, Nokia has also implemented a wide-ranging voluntary take-back program that collects cells phones no longer in use. While Nokia makes great strides in recycled packaging, Greenpeace would like to see the company increase their effort in recycling plastics. Samsung (6.9) With a commitment to global climate change cuts, Samsung scored higher this year and moved up two places in the ranking. Playing an important role in phasing out the use of PVC, all new models of Samsung LCD panels no longer use the material since November 2007 – exceptional…considering Samsung is the top global supplier. They have also made a promise to eliminate the use of phthalates and beryllium by the end of 2012 from all products, including computers, cell phones, and televisions. The company has also developed halogen-free memory chips and semiconductors for some products. Phillips (5.7) Showing the largest improvement in green business practices, Phillips leaped 11 places with significant improvements in their recycling policies. Since Phillips lobbied against the principle of Individual Producer Responsibility (IPR), Greenpeace administered a penalty last year against the company, which greatly hurt their previous ranking. Today, Phillips supports IPR, voluntary take-back programs, and reports the recycling rate of e-waste collected in Europe. Sony (5.5) Rising two places in the Greenpeace ranking, Sony reports notable improvements in producing energy efficient products. All new models of televisions and 45% of new VAIO models meet the latest ES requirements. New green business policy commitments also include cutting GHG (greenhouse gas) emissions. However, Sony still needs to set a target and timeline for increasing their use of renewable energy on a global basis. In the Middle Apple (4.7) Scoring well in chemicals elimination, improved recycling efforts, and the green capacity of MacBooks, Apple has moved up four places in the Greenpeace ranks. However, the company still needs to take a look at their energy practices. All Apple products are currently free of PVC and BFRs, with the exception of PVC-free power cords awaiting certification. Greenpeace still frowns upon Apple using "unreasonably high threshold limits for BFRs and PVC in products that are allegedly PVC-/BFR-free." Suggested improvements for a better ranking: improved chemical policies, better reporting on the management of chemicals, and phasing out other harmful substances. Green Policy Losers Panasonic (4.3) Poor energy efficiency reporting is one of the reasons that Panasonic has fallen three places in the Greenpeace ranking. The company also does not report to the "latest Energy Star TV standard v.3.0 or to the latest ES External Power Supplies standard v.2.0." Dell (3.7) Dell continues to drop, receiving a penalty for breaking their commitment to phasing out toxic substances by the end of 2009. Although the company made a promise to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, the energy efficiency of Dell products ranks poorly. Microsoft (2.7) Performing badly on e-waste efforts, Microsoft fails to clarify recycling data and doesn’t show support for Individual Producer Responsibility. HP (2.7) Failing to stick to commitments for phasing out the use of harmful chemicals by the end of 2009, HP has no products on the market that are free of toxic substances. Nintendo (0.8) Once again in last place, Nintendo has yet to improve on e-waste efforts, failed to set timelines for phasing out harmful chemicals, and contributed a 6% rise in CO2 emissions in 2006. Other notable mentions include:

• Acer (4.5) – Scored poorly regarding e-waste, but has committed to phasing out harmful chemicals.
• Sharp (4.9) – Implemented a new recycling plan for the United States but is weak on global emissions reduction.
• Motorola (5.3) – Needs to improve on waste and energy efforts.
• LG Electronics (5.5) – Has backtracked on a commitment to phase out toxic substances in all products..
• Sony Ericsson (5.7) – Although all products are PVC-free, the company ranks poorly in the recycling department

Source: Green Tea Magazine Image Sources: Nokia, Apple, Motorola,Wikipedia

Ting Creations

Who's in the driver's seat when it comes to eco-forward product ideas? Enter TING creations, a company that uses seatbelts to sculpt masterpieces in home décor and on-the-go fashion. With an assortment of colorful hammocks, luxury bags, and decorative pillows, TING turns one of the most common features of your car into sustainable products and accessories with a sleek, clean appeal. Decorate Your Home Woven from reclaimed seatbelts, TING cushions are not only visually intriguing, but also help reduce the amount of waste that millions of discarded, old cars produce each year. Interestingly, there are no zips or seams used in the construction of this cushion, which makes a pretty decent conversation piece amongst family and friends. Offering colors, such as pink, beige, blue, and black, I personally think the floral print cushion is absolutely amazing. Another product of the TING Home collection is this decorative cube (shown in lime), which falls under their line of home and interior accessories. Shown: Camel/Orange ($185); Floral Print On-the-Go Convenience TING Orange Label also produces a collection of luxury bags using seatbelts as a primary material. Tough, attractive, and ultra-durable, TING seatbelt bags offer designed pockets to carry around your precious Ipod, cell phone, and keys. Popular styles include satchels, messenger bags, laptop bags, and totes. Past clients that have enjoyed the TING Orange Label include Sketch Restaurant & Bar, London; Pilsner; and film and television companies, such as Warner Bros. Shown here is the small cosmetic bag, which comes in red, electric blue, turquoise, hot pink, orange, camel, chocolate and black. Relax and Reflect Providing stylish décor for trendy bars, restaurants, boutique hotels, as well as photo shoots, TING's colorful hammocks are increasingly making fashionable guest appearances in homes around the world. During the Spring 2008 International Contemporary Furniture Fair (ICFF) in New York, TING unveiled ideas for upcoming designs for their home collection – I can only imagine what's in store for us. About TING TING is the brainchild of Inghua Ting, who established her company in 2000 after graduating from the Royal College of Art. In Japan, Ting worked on developing fabrics of the future and pushed for innovative ways to embrace sustainability in design. Turning recycled materials into luxury products, Ting gained inspiration from old leather belts, reclaimed seatbelts, vintage leather saddles, tie silks, and salvaged fabrics. The rest is TING history. Today, vegetable tanned leathers and vintage leather belts are transformed into belts, satchels, weekend bags, and wallets of various sizes and shapes. The only left to say is 'bucket up' and enjoy a stylish ride through sustainable design with TING creations. Photo Credits: Ting