Posts from — June 2009

This week we’ve turn to Green Celebration experts Lynn Colwell and Corey Colwell-Lipson from Celebrate Green to guide us in making greener choices for our upcoming summer and 4th of July celebrations. Lynn and Corey are mother and daughter team and co-authors of Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family, available at www.CelebrateGreen.net .  Take it away ladies!

For most Americans, July 4th marks the official start of summer and that means family and friends gathering together enjoying each other at picnics and barbecues. But all this celebrating can take a toll on the Earth (and cost a lot of green as well), so why not consider some alternatives to the ways we’ve traditionally celebrated summer. Here are just a few ideas:

Serve filtered tap water. It’s so easy to hit one of the big box stores and pick up cartons of water if you’re hosting a picnic or barbecue, but you can save money and the planet when you choose to drink and serve filtered tap water instead.

Knowing that bottled water (even by the case), is 240 to 10,000 times more expensive than tap water and that 40% of bottled water should be labeled tap water because that’s what it is, you may decide that the “convenience” is simply not worth the cost. Instead, set out pitchers of iced tap water (print out this tongue-in-cheek label if you like). Ask a willing helper to keep the pitchers full.

Substitute reusables for disposables when possible. Picnics and barbecues have become synonymous with throw aways–plates, cups, napkins, tablecloths and decor. While there are more choices for disposables made from recycled and biodegradable materials, using what you already own and remains a more earth-friendly (and budget-conscions) choice.

If you don’t own enough plates and glasses,why not:

• Borrow. Friends and neighbors are usually happy to contribute
• Ask everyone to bring their own place settings. That’s what people used to do B.P.P. (before paper plates).
• Hit your local thrift store. You’ll likely be able to pick up dozens of plates very inexpensively and when you’re done, you can donate them back.

When it comes to napkins, tablecloths and decor, think outside the paper box by decorating with items you already own, like sheets. Supply guests with red, white and blue fabric markers and set them loose. You’ll end up with a unique tablecovering that you can use over and over again.

Washcloths make great napkins and if they’re stained with barbecue sauce, use them for rags.

No need to buy paper or plastic decor items when you scour your home (and ask your guests to if you like), for objects in your preferred color scheme and integrate them into the decor. If you’ve got scrap paper your colors, wrap it around empty cans and fill them with flowers (cans pictured, while made for the 4th, could be used all summer). Tie napkins with bits of ribbon and stick a flower, feather or leaves under the bow.

Clean up. You’re probably shaking your head, “Well, of course we’ll clean up, duh!” If you’re partying at your home, this is no doubt true, but be sure to provide bins for trash and recyclables as well as for items that can be composted, assuming these services are available in your community. Place signs on each container indicating what should be tossed in which bin and encourage everyone to use them.

And if you’re watching the town parade or or enjoying an outdoor movie at a local park where recycling bins are not provided, why not carry a bag so you can bring your trash home and dispose of it properly. This includes packaging from food items, cans and paper goods. While you’re at it, how about taking a bag to pick up a bit of trash left by thoughtless individuals? After all, not everyone is as conscientious as you!

Cook it green. When it comes to the environment, barbecues of all kinds are problematic. The best way to cook outside in an eco-friendly way? A solar oven. You can purchase one, but to save money, gather a bunch of kids and make your own. Choose from among dozens of configurations using everything from tires to pizza boxes to a windshielf shade. Yes, cooking with solar takes more time, but hey, it’s summer! And if you’re only ready for baby steps, start by cooking part of the meal via solar. Pick up some veggies at the local farmer’s market and grill them up. Once you see how easy it is and how yummy and fresh everything tastes, you may wave good bye to charcoal altogether.

*Thanks Lynn and Corey for the great advice. For more ideas on how to green you next celebration, check out www.CelebrateGreen.net .

I am on a mission – a mission to build a more sustainable wardrobe. After gaining and losing weight during two pregnancies, periods of extreme workout, and periods of sheer laziness, I am finally at a place in my life where I am comfortable with my body. I know what looks good, looks bad, and what items I need in my wardrobe to meet my daily needs. From now on, I want to buy items that are comfortable, fashion conscious and functional, and most importantly made with materials and by companies that are socially responsible.

This will not be an easy mission. While there are plenty of great companies out there that are making clothing out of organic or other sustainable materials, my funds for clothes are almost non-existent. I’m keeping a shopping list and will share it regularly with you on the Tread Light Living blog. Next time I need a new dress or shirt, I will refer this shopping list. Hopefully you will too.

I might have found the perfect dress – “Diane” Wrap Dress by SPUN

Every women needs one dress that they can wear from day to night. This just might be the one. It’s a classic, sophisticated version of the signature wrap dress. Pair it with sandals, boots, or even high heels, this 100% organic cotton dress is pretty much perfect for any occasion. For more functionality, you can play it safe and buy it in black. But I am done with safe and thinking RED!

SPUN, designed by Sara Seumae of Seattle, was started to show women that organic clothing doesn’t have to be a luxury, it should be a choice. “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and sustaining our beautiful planet while allowing you to uphold your own personal style is essential”, says Seamue. I agree. I love the entire SPUN collection. The clothing is stylish, functional, and great wardrobe building pieces. You will definitely see more SPUN clothing on my shopping list.

To order the SPUN “Diane” Wrap dress or other pieces from the collection, visit Green Loop or Fashion Ethic.