Better Dancer

Jinga shoes are really, really light. A pair weighs less than 300 grams! The minimalist construction allows for foot flexibility and a maximum level of movement that I never knew I was missing. I find myself compelled to do the “happy feet dance” whenever I slip these bad boys on. Through some ingenious engineering Jinga’s protective TPU sole has managed to achieve great wear, grease and temperature resistance. Plus, the sole is sticky enough to allow for quick movements, but has a sweet spot with just enough slip for my awesome spins. It was incredible to actually find myself feeling light and on time with the thumping samba music. Although designed as dance footwear with roots as a capoeira shoe, Jingas are super comfortable with and without socks and an interesting option for barefoot or minimalist running, exercise class or street walkin’. But, if you think that these shoes are for blending in, think again. Jinga’s beautiful design is hip enough for the dance floor whether you’re into salsa, street dance, Zumba, jazz, modern or Dance Dance Revolution. Jinga shoes are as versatile in function as they are in style. Any of the five thousand color schemes creates a rhythm and expression that’s all your own. They even make shoes for kids. So even though there’s no hope for my dancing career, but from six months on, your little one can be feather light and making all the right steps.

Better Priorities

Jinga captures and celebrates the animation and passion of the Brazilian Culture in its shoes, while working to make a positive social and environmental impact in the country. Through careful selection, Jinga fosters long term relationships with socially and environmentally conscious suppliers. These lasting relationships create stability and facilitate better processes for people and the planet. Through its commitment to fair and responsible business practice in Brazil, Jinga is able to have a concrete impact on many Brazilians’ lives. Currently, the company provides a percentage of its profits to partner with a Brazilian NGO, REDEH, and offer an out of school activity program for Brazil’s youth. Going forward, Jinga has committed to dedicating 25% of its net income to similar projects in Brazil.

Better Processes

In addition to its social efforts, Jinga makes the environment a top priority. The company was awarded the “Green Seal” by the Brazilian government for its environmental policies as well as the high standard of working conditions that exist in its factories. The company’s values are also clearly considered in Jinga’s planning and business practices. Jinga shoes are 100% vegan and made in Brazil using only materials that are sourced locally from suppliers with stated socio-environmental policies. Additionally, anything left after manufacturing is sent to a facility for recycling in an effort to reduce waste. In another partnership, as part of Amanha Mais Feliz’s Happier Tomorrow Project Jinga is recognized as an environmentally responsible footwear company thanks to its lean production philosophy. So, slip on a pair of these eco-shoes and revel in your new ability to “move as nature intended”. Lacing up a great pair of shoes could really change your day, but great shoes from a good, green company could change much more than your mood.

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Image Credit: Alina Jesien, Jinga

The new and improved version of the PUMA Suede retains all of the vital qualities of the classic, while adding a dash of sustainability, a touch of eco, and a scoop of green. Meet the PUMA Eco Suede. The newest rendition has an Eco OrthoLite ® sockliner which is made from bio-oil as well as laces that are made entirely from recycled materials. The shoe’s sole is made from a rice husk filler which is a food by-product that replaces the previously unsustainable rubber content. The new shoes are also 140 grams lighter, a small adjustment with a big impact. By reducing the weight PUMA was able to reduce their carbon emissions by 15 tons for every 1,000 pairs shipped! Plus, when it’s available in five million beautiful color combinations, what’s not to love?

In April 2010 PUMA set a new standard for the footwear industry with their “Clever Little Bag”, a revolutionary packaging concept with huge environmental pay-offs. By replacing traditional packaging with the new bag, PUMA was able to reduce paper usage by 65% and cut their carbon emissions by 10,000 tons a year! The new packaging not only has a direct impact through its manufacturing process, but also through its usage. Due to some sharp architecture, the bag replaces a box and also eliminates the need for an additional shopping bag. Brilliant!

When they aren’t revamping classics or stunning us with design genius, PUMA stays pretty busy with other environmental initiatives through their PUMA.Safe program. PUMA has big plans to reduce their “paw print” by 2015. The company aims to reduce their CO2 emissions, energy, water and waste by 25%, as well as implement a 75% reduction in paper usage. PUMA also has set a goal of making all of their shoes PVC-free by the same year. PUMA is also actively working with Greenpeace in a Detox campaign to extend PUMA’s restricted substances list for all of its suppliers.

So call back the riots and re-think the nasty emails. This classic, at least, remains unscathed by progress, unaffected by fickle tastes and un-tempted by quick and dirty creation.

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Image Credit: PUMA

After a trip to Australia about 8 years ago, Cathy saw a storefront in a neighborhood in Sydney that looked inviting. “With flowers in the flower boxes and an awning on the street, it looked like a store that I would want to shop in.” After returning to the States and doing some research, she discovered that the shop – Simplistic Funerals – had all of the same services that we offered here in America, but it was just packaged differently. Instead of being an intimidating environment, it looked like a place that you would be comfortable entering.

Since that life-altering experience, Cathy has become a licensed Funeral Director and opened up her own personal vision of that storefront, Signature Funerals, located at 8019 State Line Road in Kansas City, Missouri. Locally owned, Signature Funerals has created a warm and inviting place to meet with families, along with space for small visitations and services. Cathy and her experienced Funeral Care team work closely with families to determine exactly what they need, the best place for their services, what to include, etc. “More than anything, I give them permission to openly discuss options and items for the funeral that they may not have at other funeral firms in Kansas City.” Those options may range from a service location that is a very traditional church setting or it might be at the Pilgram Chapel, the Johnson County Arboretum, a local park, or perhaps even the Midland Theatre, a Kansas City landmark.

Signature Funerals believes in education and making sure you understand the process before you or a loved one has a need. “When you’re being educated about the process in the middle of the need, it is incredibly difficult. To have confidence in your decisions, it is important to know about the process, your options, and start to think about what you want to communicate to your family about your wishes,” says Cathy. These wishes might even include a green funeral.

IzzitGreen: Cathy, you talk about Green Funerals – what does that mean, and is that something that’s new here in the United States?

Cathy: I see a Green Funeral as a process that can be implemented in steps.  Some might see cremation as a green funeral option with the ashes being returned to the environment – earth or water – in a number of different ways.  Others that are measuring carbon footprint might see a natural burial in a woolen shroud or biodgradable casket made of natural wood, wicker or rattan as an efficient or green burial.  So, whether you are selecting an urn made of salt or sand or burial in a natural setting, there are a number of green options.

IzzitGreen: It seems as though the funeral business never changes. Have there been any major innovations in the last century?

Cathy: When you look at innovation in every other industry over the last 50-100 years and compare it to the funeral industry, there has been very little change in our industry.  That said, the popularity of cremation as a final option has increased to nearly 50% across the United States versus the traditional process of a visitation at the funeral home followed by a funeral at a church.  While this decision is often financially based because cremation costs so much less, it inserts CHOICE back into the situation and puts the control back into the hands of the consumer.  No longer is a grieving family forced into making decisions because the funeral home – who’s been in business for generations upon generations – tells them it has to be a certain way.

Across the board, buying patterns have changed as well.  Whereas 50 years ago someone would go to a local family-owned hardware store, for example, now they go to Home Depot.  And with clothing, instead of asking the clerk at the local dress shop to “show me all of your blue dresses,” now you browse through the racks yourself and ask questions only when needed, or you avoid it all together and simply shop online.

In the funeral care business, historically, everything has been handled and controlled by the Funeral Director, leaving consumers and families uncomfortable and unhappy with the process and the experience.  Add on top of that exhaustion, overwhelming grief, and limited or no prior education about this important event and what needs to take place, it can be even further devastating.

IzzitGreen: You talk about “permission,” which is such an important concept. Can you elaborate?

Cathy: At Signature Funerals we believe that permissions are so important!  Permission to make different choices based on all of the options available, and to think differently and outside the box, so to speak.  A funeral is the ultimate celebration of someone’s life, and it’s important to tell their story in the manner in which it should be told.  That doesn’t always mean doing things the same exact way that other family members, friends, and neighbors have done it.

For a friend or family member who has passed that was not religious, people need to understand that it’s OK to hold a service in a non-religious location, yet still have a pastor or funeral celebrant lead the service.  And it’s OK to have both a visitation and service at the same location.  This works especially well when there are older friends and relatives who are less mobile, and when the crowd is larger and logistics are a challenge.  We held a beautiful service at a famous Kansas City landmark recently which opened a lot of eyes and hearts to what we can do and what a funeral can be.

While these are just a few mere examples, the point is that whether told through special music, poems, scripture, personal reflections, or a special location, the story deserves to be told in a manner that reflects the life of the loved one.  And whatever the preferences for location and cost, there are endless choices.  We encourage everyone to take time to think about those choices before the need arises, and give yourself permission to go about it your own way if that’s the way you choose.

IzzitGreen: We’re so impressed. Besides your warm and inviting location and setting, what else sets you apart from the other locally owned firms and corporate funeral companies?

Cathy: What is most important to our firm is that a valuable service to families in our community is affordable and the experience is updated to this century. From a modern setting to prices that are 30-60% less than a corporate owned funeral home, it is important to have additional choices for your funeral care.  What’s most important to Signature Funerals is personal service and a comforting experience for the lives of those we touch in Kansas City.

For more information on green funeral options, funeral planning, or to contact Cathy Boomer directly, Signature Funerals can be reached in Kansas City at (816) 214-5174 and on the web at www.signaturefunerals.com.

Green Apple’s products are constructed with an eco-friendly organic cotton and bamboo blend using bamboo that is organically grown on farms certified by OCIA and NOP. The fibers used by Green Apple are also Oeko-Tek certified, meaning that they have been put through the highest quality processing and are tested at the end stages to ensure that they are free of chemicals. Green Apple uses only eco-friendly dyes that offer a 60% lower impact than other dyes used in the industry.

The entire eco-collection is just begging to be layered and mixed, but here are my top picks.

Kasmir Cami

This stylish Kasmir Cami is decorated with eco-friendly, water-based prints and has a dainty y-back that is feminine and sporty. This tank has a longer cut to stay in place while you move and the stretchable, lightweight fabric is naturally breathable to keep you cool.

Elise Sport Bra

The elastic straps inside the Elise Sport Bra provide ultimate comfort and control, but this full-coverage bra is stylish enough to be worn alone. The beautiful v-neckline and criss-cross back are sure to turn some heads whether you’re in a yoga studio or Zumba class.

Congo Hoodie

The Congo Hoodie pairs perfectly with yoga pants or jeans, and goes especially well with the Congo Yoga Flare Pants. The contrast stitching and water-based print in the hood create an original and classy look, while the streamlined cut creates a graceful silhouette.

Congo Yoga Flare Pants

These top selling yoga pants show off your best with a praise-worthy cut and contrast waistband. Green Apple didn’t forget the small details with the addition of a cute logo embroidered on the back of the leg and raw hem so that you can cut the pants to your perfect length.

Fitted Yoga Short

The Fitted Yoga Shorts are ideal for summer workouts and hot yoga, thanks to the breathable eco-fabric that wicks sweat while you work. The wide waistband and flat seams keep things comfortable and the well placed stitching complements your back side.

For your next workout, breath easy and put something clean and natural against your skin.

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Image Credit: Green Apple

With this year’s blissful wedding season well under way, you may find yourself in a similar position to many others with reuse and sustainability on the mind – yes, that is the dresses you laid out for this wedding season have reached their rotation max and are on route to retirement. And with buying new wedding guest attire falling into the must category, why not keep on the sustainable path and check out uber chic, I want that, eco-friendly dresses? As per usual, I have pulled together a few fashionable, nice to the environment, wedding guest dress options.

Chinti and Parker Dress

The Chianti and Parker Dress makes my list due to 100 percent organic cotton content. But to assure its spot, this classy belted dress is simple and versatile. Dress it up with a classy pendant and earrings, for say, a wedding, or dress it down with your favorite flats and cardigan for your next office meeting.

Gina Michele Portrait of a Siren Dress

According to her Nimli profile, “Designer Gina Michele believes that fashion should be fun and wearable as well as socially responsible.”  This belief is backed up by her use of recycled, organic, and sustainable textiles, with all garments manufactured in New York. This is also why I pulled her Portrait of a Siren Dress into my wedding guest dress collection. Sustainable and handmade of natural materials always makes Izzit smile.

AngelRox Halter Wrap Dress

Made from 100 percent biodegradable rayon jersey, the AngelRox Halter Wrap Dress is a shoe in. And the AngelRox collection has a reputation for commitment to local suppliers and fair labor. Their philosophy of balancing out what they take from the Earth can also be echoed in this well-balanced wrap dress.

Image Credits: Net-A-Porter, Nimli

Convertible

The Convertible includes a hemp, lace-up extension piece that allows it to be worn as a low-cut shoe, or a higher-cut boot. This unique system provides versatility as well as some major style points, but the extension is not the only feature that benefits from the stitching concept. In fact, each piece of the shoe is stitched together instead of glued making the Convertible more breathable, more durable, more repairable and more recyclable.

The sole is made from natural latex which is gently harvested from gum trees using a method that causes no harm or damage to the tree. This material also saves the soles from the garbage bin, as they can be ground up to make new soles at the end of their life. Additionally, the super comfy “foot mattress” is made from coconut husks and actually molds to your foot shape, so you feel just how lightly these shoes tread on the Earth. The leather is tanned using eco-friendly vegetable extracts helping these shoes be so sustainable that if you ever tire of them, you can drop them off at any Timberland store for complete recycling.

However, you might want to keep the compostable shoe box because it makes two awesome seed trays that are biodegradable and perfectly plantable.

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Image Credit: Po-Zu

Numbers 1-4

1. Green Apple Clea Jean Legging: These super cute and unique yoga jeggings are a stylish and soft combination of bamboo, certified organic cotton, and spandex.

2. Restore Eco Yoga Pants: The Restore recycled bottoms offer premium “Muffin Top minimizing” benefits thanks to the flattering fit and contoured waist that is slightly higher in the rear.

3. Organic Cotton Cobra Capri: With a flat waistband these capri style organic yoga pants work great as leggings and are perfect for your yoga class to hot date transition.

4. Shining Shakti Yoga Pants: These hand-dyed, organic cotton yoga pants are a great way to add some energizing color to your daily poses.

Numbers 5-8

5. Harem Knickers by Prana: These lightweight bamboo yoga pants have a very elegant drape that allows for full freedom of movement through all of your salutations.

6. OM Girl Practice Pant: The attached skirt detail and bootcut legs add some stylish and unique flair to these wear-everywhere organic cotton yoga pants.

7. Bhakti Ware Lotus OM Pants: A super-soft blend of organic cotton and spandex and beautiful hem artwork create a very eye-catching and comfortable pair.

8. Blue Canoe Bamboo Easy Pant: With a wide folding waistband and relaxed cut, these bamboo and organic cotton yoga pants are a must-have for some serious relaxation and stretching.

Numbers 9-12

9. Sauipe Short Shorts: These yoga short shorts come in a ton of fun colors and are perfect for Hot Yoga and showing off those legs.

10. Hyde Cropped Divine Drawstring Pant: Made with an organic cotton and spandex blend these trendy crops offer ties at the knee for function and a feminine touch.

11. ecoKashmere Angel Pant from Jonäno: Softer than a cloud, the organic bamboo and spandex blend fabric forms a lean and elegant look as you float through your routine.

12. Yoga Tribe and Culture Leggings: Made with Organic Prima Cotton and some spandex, the many color options and stylish fake fly helped these cropped yoga leggings make Izzit’s list.

Numbers 13-16

13. 4-rth Women’s Pants: These great looking yoga pants will hold their shape and keep you cool all day thanks to their special ProModal material which is derived from Eucalyptus and Birch Trees raised on sustainable farms.

14. Patagonia Serenity Tights: Organic cotton and spandex come together again with a wide waistband that can be rolled up or down depending on your fancy.

15. Harem Yoga Shorts by Float Design: These stunning yoga shorts made with organic cotton and lycra show off a little extra leg with a sexy side fabric gather.

16. Beckons Wisdom Pant: These organic yoga pants offer activewear your way with a roll-down waist that can be adjusted to sit just where you want it to.

Numbers 17-20

17. Prancing Leopard Harem Pant: These stylish yoga pants are made with high quality Organic Turkish Long-fiber cotton and are ideal for high fashion in the studio and on the streets.

18. Gaiam Organic Side Slit Capri: These flexible capri pants are made with certified organic cotton and spandex and use only low eco-impact dyes.

19. Inner Waves Organics Pono Pants: The Pono Pants are designed with a beautiful diamond, cross-over waist that flatters and feels great.

20. YogaFit’s Bamboo Relaxed Pant: A relaxed fit bamboo yoga pant with cute rear pockets and a handy front drawstring.

Number 21

21. Asquith Bootleg Pants: And finally number 21, these organic yoga pants are a luxurious blend of organic cotton and jersey with a tasteful row of Swarovski crystals at the hem.

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Image Credit: Asquith

Diaper Dude Digi Dude Eco Technology Case

Don’t let the name mislead, the Diaper Dude Digi Dude Eco Technology Case is one tough cookie. The durable case and solid design, made from recycled materials, can take a beating while keeping your iPad or laptop safe – yet another layer of security for your tech guru dad. Not to mention, not a bad looking case for a name with diaper in it.

Solio Rocsta Charger

If a technology case is not in store this year, but your gift needs still require a tech side, check out L.L. Bean’s Solio Rocsta Charger portable power source. This solar charger, which works for thousands of electronic devices, stores power for an entire year! And if the sun rarely shines where you reside, you have the option to USB cable or wall charge. This nifty solar charger is the perfect eco-friendly gift for the active Dad that craves a little power for off the grid adventures.

Reclaimed Ballpark Seat Cufflinks

Take your sport infused Father’s love of the game a step further with reclaimed, authentic ballpark seat cufflinks. Uncommon Goods has a slew of stadium seats to choose from, from Fenway to Wrigley! A flawless reclaimed accessory for Dad that gives new life to gone, but not forgotten stadiums.

TOMS Eyewear

TOMS Shoes is taking their one for one business plan a huge step further with TOMS Eyewear. TOMS Eyewear gives sight to a person in need for each eyewear purchase. Essentially one purchase at a time, one person receives the eye care that he or she needs. Check out their new initiative and snag a pair of hip sunglasses along the way. Not bad for a purchase that you and Dad can continue to feel good about.

Recycled Bike Tube Belltown Card Case

If a money storage device is on your Father’s Day list then a recycled bike tube wallet may fit the bill. The Recycled Bike Tube Belltown Card Case is said wallet that has it all – 99 percent recycled content, handmade, durable and water-resistant. Not too shabby for an accessory made from some old throw away bike tires. Not to mention it’s simple and slim design is bound for any mans back pocket.

Citizen Eco-Drive Watch

Citizen’s Eco-Drive Watch is in an entire worlds of it’s own. This time piece not only uses the most advanced technology in watch making, it’s black dial and scratch-resistant mineral crystal alone is enough to trigger drooling. The technology harnesses the power of light, natural or artificial, and converts it into energy that is stored in a permanently rechargeable lithium-ion cell. The Eco-Drive has I want, I want, written all over it.

Image Credits: Zappos.com,  L.L. Bean, Uncommongoods.com, TOMS

As a “dog mom” of three, I can vouch: It’s nice to be recognized for all the love and devotion we pour into our fur balls. But a bouquet of flowers isn’t the best gift for a pet mom. Instead, consider these must-haves for any dog or cat mama.

Chocolate, Of Course!

Pamper your favorite pet mom with a sweet treat that also gives back. Not only is Rescue Chocolate 100 percent vegan, the company also donates 100 percent of their net profits to animal rescues around the country. My personal favorite? Peanut Butter Pit Bull!

Organic Animal-Themed Apparel for a Cause

For a unique gift that will make her feel good, too, give a hand-painted T-shirt that gives back to animal welfare organizations and is made ethically and organically. JACA T-shirts are made from super soft 100 percent organic cotton and low-impact dyes. Each supports an animal-related organization.

Biodegradable Pet Waste Bags

No, it’s not the most heartwarming gift, but all dog moms go through a lot of pet waste bags. Get her a cute dispenser stuffed with biodegradable poop bags to brighten up the pick up. Try the Poochie Pick Up Biodegradable Bags or, for someone with large or multiple dogs, a box of 880 purple, biodegradable bags would be much appreciated.

Especially for Cat Moms

Cat moms love to spoil their pets, and there’s no better way than with organic catnip. Fat Cat Kitty Hoots Zoom Around the Room Organic Catnip is a healthy alternative to non-organic, which often contains fillers. For a more interactive catnip toy, KONG Naturals Natural Mice Cat Toy is made from renewable resources and will keep cats busy hunting and pouncing.

Picture This: Recycled, Eco-Friendly Picture Frame

We dog and cat moms love pictures of our pets! Pick up a recycled or eco-friendly picture frame like this Umbra Simple Wood frame, made from plantation grown, eco-friendly rubberwood. Include a picture of the pet mama snuggling with her animals for the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

Image credits: jlantzy, Rescue Chocolate, Jus Animalium, ShopWithEase.com, Amazon, Amazon

Mother’s Day is May 8th, so let this Mother’s Day be no exception to that feeling you get when you pick out the perfect gift for someone you care about. Surprise the mother in your life with an eco-friendly gift that’s stylish as well. The Mother’s Day garments and accessories I recommend here are high on the green credentials, fashionable and of course, mother-approved.

Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress

Slipping into an organic cotton scoop neck long sleeve dress is just one place to start. Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress can be worn to a classy brunch or backyard picnic. Contrast is created with unique embroidery and pockets add more than a hint of convenience. To be dressed up with the right accessories, check out Andean Collection’s Braided Acai Necklace below.

Andean Collection’s Braided Açaí Necklace

The Braided Açaí Necklace in coral is a great accessory for the Loomstate Thalsia Dress, but, is also sure to be used to dress up or worn casually with great outfits alike (it even matches the Mallorca T-shirt Dressbelow!). Like other Andean Collection accessories, the açaí seeds used are naturally dyed and fair trade from Ecuador.

Stewart + Brown’s Mallorca T-shirt Dress

For another perfect slip-on-and-go for mom, the Mallorca T-shirt Dress claims to be suitable for an ocean sail or picnic. Not to mention, it features extremely comfortable 100 percent organic cotton and Stewart + Brown’sreputation for style is not missed. A smart modern look that can be pulled together with the perfect eco-friendly footwear — might I suggest Payless Shoes’ Bouquet Gladiator Sandal in brown!

Zoe&Zac’s Bouquet Gladiator Sandal

This gladiator sandal by zoe&zac is a practical and stylish eco find. The faux leather upper is lined with organic cotton, and the adjustable ankle strap features nickel-free buckles that are  hypoallergenic. And if brown isn’t her style, try pairing the black gladiator sandal with Loomstate’s Thalsia Dress above.

Hessnatur Organic Cotton Top

I stumbled upon a shirt and dress from Hessnatur in two great prints ideal for an eco mom. The first print is Hessnatur’s Organic Cotton Top in almond. It features a light airy style with a feminine feel.

Hessnatur also highlights just how eco-friendly their cotton is, stating: ”The organic cotton is more than eco-friendly: coming from our groundbreaking fair trade project in Burkina Faso, it helps to create hope and better lives in all participating communities.”

Hessnatur Organic Cotton Dress

Second, the Organic Cotton Dressin tomato print is a simple, easy to wear slip-on dress. It’s 100 percent organic cotton is also from a certified organic farm in Burkina Faso. That’s some feel good, and feel good style in both senses.

Blue Canoe Yoga Pant C400

To round out my Mother’s Day eco-friendly style is an article of clothing that should be, if not already, a staple in every mom’s closet. You guessed it, a super-eco and comfy pair of yoga pants. Blue Canoe’s Yoga Pant C400 fit the bill! With the added comfort of a fold over waistband and flared knee, Blue Canoe also weaves in 90 percent organic cotton and 10 percent spandex. So, whether heading from yoga to the market or simply lounging, these pants will not let you down.

Image credits: Loomstate, Andean Collection, Stewart + Brown,Payless Shoesource, Hessnatur, Blue Canoe.