OK, so we know that disposable water bottles are the devil’s work. And we’ve made our choice to not drink bottled water because we know that bottled water is 2,000 times more energy intensive than tap water. But with all of the water bottles out there, aren’t you tired of hearing about BPA-this and cancer-causing-that? Maybe it’s time that we look back to an enduring and recyclable friend. Today, this friend comes in the form of a beautifully designed, 22oz, Lifefactory Glass Water Bottle.

Whoa! A glass water bottle?! Yup. Let me give you some reasons. For one thing, Lifefactory bottles will never leach any chemicals into your beverage because they are PVC-free, polycarbonate-free, and yes, BPA-free too. Plus, every part used to construct the bottles is FDA-approved. This also allows for great taste, and thanks to the elimination of that metallic tang you can get with other water bottles, you don’t have to feel like you have braces again. And best of all, all parts are reusable and recyclable. And if you don’t think that recycling glass is significant, think again. For every product that is made with 10% recycled glass, 2.5% of energy costs are saved. And is it really that taxing? No confusing numbers to remember. Glass can always be recycled; colored or clear. Personally, I can’t think of anything more satisfying or therapeutic than hearing my glass shatter at the base of the recycling bin. But right now, our report card isn’t looking so great. While the U.S. has an average glass recycle rate of 35%, Europe is leaps and bounds ahead with an average rate of 65%! In the U.S. we only recycle 2.5 million tons of the 17 million tons of glass produced in one year. Ouch.

OK. So it is good to recycle glass, and Lifefactory bottles are super safe and tasty, but won’t they break? Lifefactory decided to attack this issue in a brilliant way. They decided to cover their bottles in fu

Unlike our little green Sasquatch Izzit, who legend has it was home schooled, it’s almost time for kiddies of all ages to get back to school and further their education.  To help students do everything from staying organized to getting their lunches, books and other supplies to their temples of learning in an eco-sustainable way, IzzitGreen has found a bunch of cool, environmentally friendly school products from our partner BuyGreen.com.  And as part of IzzitGreen’s efforts to help educate all youngsters, and through them hopefully their parents, Izzit will donate a portion of our proceeds from August 18th to August 25th, 2010 to help the non profit “e”inc. continue its mission of bringing environmental learning right into the classroom.

How about those cool back to school products?

Well we found a lot of items that we feel are practical, unique, and quite frankly pretty hip, we would love your personal take on them through feedback and reviews.  Here are our top five. . .

1. The Laptop Bento Box

Even the name is cool.  The Laptop Bento Box is a take-off on a childhood classic.  This updated lunchbox offers many great features such as removable compartments, 3 sealable lids; a dip container for sauces, salad dressings, hummus etc.  And like an all-in-one survival kit (hey, middle school for me was like a 2 year episode of Survivor) it comes equipped with inner containers, utensils, and a book of healthy lunch ideas and recipes.  Everything is reusable, recyclable, and dishwasher safe.

Laptop Lunches are manufactured in California using plastics (polypropylene and polyethylene) that are FDA-approved for food use. There are no binding agents or plasticizers used in the manufacturing process. In addition, there are no materials used that are suspected carcinogens or endocrine disrupters.  They are also lead-free, microwave and dishwasher safe.

The convenient size fits in almost any backpack which brings us to our next item…

2. Voltaic Solar Backpack

This versatile Backpack is the perfect eco-friendly choice for students to carry everything they could possibly need to get through their busy day. The backpack is solar powered, so as you carry your water,  lunch, books, and supplies, you can also use the solar pack’s pockets and wire channels to keep your devices (any kind of cell or smart phone) charged while you’re on the go between classes. The Voltaic Solar Backpack is lightweight and is also ideal for outdoor activities such as field trips, hiking or camping.  It’s a green option that allows you to conserve electricity without being left chained to your home when your personal gadgets are out of batteries….).

Now, how about some green options for the everyday supplies that will be transported in your new backpack?  Luckily there are plenty of options.

3. Ban the plastic bottle!  SIGG Swiss Engineered Aluminum Reusable Water Bottles…

SIGG bottles save money too! Assuming you drink 1 liter per day, you’d spend $500-$1,000 in bottled water a year. Many SIGG bottles are still being used 10-20 years after they are purchased so you get good bang for your buck!

4. New Leaf Binders

Now to reading, writing and arithmetic. These 3 Ring Binders are simple, durable and eco-friendly.  Why consume virgin material when you can use a New Leaf binder.

100% recycled with 35% Post-Consumer content and processed Chlorine Free.  3 Ring Binders are Craft Colored with White New Leaf Band and Recycled Corrugate.

Two sizes:
- 1/2″ thick and Cases have ten (10) items
- 1″ thick and cases have eight (8) items

Paper with a past and a future. New Leaf has a vision for a sustainable paper industry, inspired by nature. Natural systems are cyclical: waste from one process is food to another. Natural systems are sustainable: they create beauty, abundance, biodiversity, and are life-supporting. They do not pollute the water we drink and the air we breathe.

5. Autonomie Project Ethletic  High-top Sneaker

And the best part about going back to school? Hey, throwback shoes!

The Autonomie Project Ethletic Black & White High-top Sneaker has a sole produced and stamped with Forest Stewardship Council-certified all natural and sustainable rubber. It is 100% vegan and entirely cruelty-free, plus it is imported from a Fair Trade certified workshop in Pakistan.

The Deal

In an effort to support the critical mission of “e”-inc., IzzitGreen will donate 50% of our proceeds on any back to school item purchased through Izzit from our partner BuyGreen.com.  Simply click on any BuyGreen item on this page or our in our product catalogue and you will be directed to the BuyGreen site to complete your purchase.

At Izzit we have a lot of fun finding great green products and educating our followers on the potential eco-benefits of those items.  “e”-inc is a non profit that takes the eco-education piece in a different and important direction; right into the classroom, right to the generation that can have the biggest impact on creating a sustainable world and right to those kids who are on their way back to school.

“e” inc. believes that by reaching young people (and through them their families), it can change the shape of our global future through the use of knowledge and action.  “e”inc combines science education with community action to drive environmental change in urban communities.

They do so by working with after school programs in urban Community Centers, Public Schools, and Charter Schools to bring “Planet Protectors” – their standards-based science programs on energy, habitats, ocean biodiversity, or climate change that culminate in solution-driven actions – to all students.   For more info on how they affect this change check out their site at  www.e-action.us

Now you can go au naturel without bearing it all. These top picks from around the world are all made with eco-friendly materials such as bamboo, organic cotton or recycled pine fiber. Green fabrics have many other benefits aside from a lower impact on the environment. Bamboo fibers are incredibly soft, wick moisture, have natural pores to keep you fresh, and they come in really handy if you’re trying to seduce a panda bear. These eco-friendly underthings are also naturally hypo-allergenic and toxin-free. Sustainable textiles not only look and feel stunning, but they can help ease the mind of your tree-hugging boyfriend. Supporting sexy, sustainable companies never felt so good.

1. For something soft and airy try this O Girl Cami by Eberjey. Made from 100% organic cotton, this eco-friendly cami is perfect for those hot summer nights. A beautiful piece from a company that believes, “the layer worn closest to the heart should express happiness, love and confidence.”

2. The Vanessa Chemise by Lavit Lingerie insures renewable fun over and over again. This touchable number is made from a beautiful bamboo fabric with a gorgeous lace razor-back. Lavit’s tradition of using hand picked fabrics really payed off for this sexy number.

3. If seamless and smooth is more your thing, fall in love with the Bandeau Bra by Cosabella. The flexible and breathable bamboo fabric promises all-day comfort and sleek style thanks to the fusion of American and Italian artisan-ship.

4. Continue your love affair with these matching Bamboo Bikinis by Cosabella. Tagless with a luxuriously smooth elastic waistband for your pleasure, no wonder stars all over Hollywood are going gaga over this brand.

5. For some eco-attitude all the way from France, check out these spicy Boy Short Panties by g=9.8. Made from recycled pine fiber that has been processed with enzymes, these bottoms are as sustainable as they are sexy. And check out their website for a little nature therapy over lunch.

6. From Peau-Ethique’s, the Elegance Collection Underwire Bra really stands out. Composed of 100% organic cotton, this bra is not only sensual but also comes from a company that has a tradition of eco-responsibility and fair trade practices.

7. Elita offers a sleeker look with their Bamboo Cross Over Bra that practically disappears under clothing. The front detail is simple and stunning, while the lack of snaps and clasps creates a snuggly feeling for those of us who don’t need cement to keep us in place. And it’s available in 5 great colors.

8. To make a sustainable set, Elita also makes an adorable Bamboo Hipster and a Bamboo Bikini Briefs. They are made with the same eco-friendly breathable material, and sport the same simple details as the Cross Over Bra.

9. Hanky Panky provides a great mix between naughty and nice with their modern Low Rise Organic Cotton Supima Thong. Super comfortable, super flattering, and super green – Hanky Panky has done their research to make sure that their USA made thongs remain the ‘World’s Most Comfortable Thong®’.

10. As the winner of the prestigious “Socially Responsible Business” Award in 2007, Under the Canopy has some major green know-how. And they didn’t devote anything but the best to their luxurious 100% Organic Cotton Robe. Turn your house into a spa with this eco-plush wrap.

So come on ladies, now is not the time to be bashful. Take your pick;  for the earth, your lover, or yourself.

Baby Clothing:

Organic Cotton Onesie (BuyGreen.com, $17.60)

There are not a lot of things cuter than a baby in his very first onesie. The Organic Cotton Onesie from BuyGreen is a great choice – made from organic cotton, each features a positive message with a cute graphic. Throw in the part they are fair trade and chemical free and we are cruising down highway sustainable.

Hemp Weebit (BuyGreen.com, $21)

To tie these looks together why not throw in an adorable pair of shoes? The Hemp Weebit is a small shoe big on green creds. The Hemp Weebit is made from recycled plastics, organic cotton, and you guessed it, hemp.

Personal Care:

FuzziBunz Perfect Size Diaper (BuyGreen.com, Starting at $185)

FuzziBunz Perfect Size Diaper is ideal if diapers are on your shopping list. A parent typically spends between $3,500 and $4,500 on disposables diapers for 3 years.  On top of the financials, disposable diapers simply pile up in landfills. FuzziBunz Perfect Size Diaper is a great fitting, highly adjustable cloth diaper that adds a touch of style to a diaper world weighed down with throw away creams and whites. And if you aren’t sold yet, check out FuzziBunz’s YouTube video…

Baby Accessories:

Wee-Go Glass Baby Bottles (BuyGreen.com, $11.99)

It seems like the potential for leaching chemicals is just about everywhere. Fortunately, Wee-Go Glass Baby Bottles come in with a revolutionary baby bottle. Don’t let the glass frighten you; these glass baby bottles are covered with a modern non-toxic silicone sleeve that will help protect the bottle from breakage and aid in gripping. The glass baby bottle and sleeve can also be boiled or put in the dishwasher together. The silicone nipple is latex free and non-toxic, and the plastic ring, plug and cap contain no polycarbonates and are food grade, FDA approved and recyclable.

Re-Run Messenger Bag (BuyGreen.com, $74.95)

Talk about a great green story, all Re-Run bags are made from 100% post consumer recycled plastic bottles. We are talking approximately eight 600ml plastic bottles that would end up in a landfill finding a new home in each bag. Then there’s the part where the Re-Run Messenger Bag is light, comfy and well designed. In all, BuyGreen’s choice for messenger bag keeps baby, parent, and Mother Nature happy.

I seem to have a difficult time finding my center and breathing deep when I am worrying about inhaling toxic chemicals from my PVC mat, or worrying about where I can find a public recycling bin to toss my plastic water bottle. Check out this sustainable yoga gear to help you clear your mind and the air.

1. The perfect way to carry all of your yoga gear, minus hassle of lugging around a massive and hideous duffel. The Everything Fits Gym Bag is well designed to keep you organized and mobile. Made from 100% recycle polyester this eco-friendly choice, high in usability and style.

2. If your looking for something even more minimalist, check out this Hemp Mat Sling. A great lightweight alternative to bag, and made from durable 100% hemp. This sustainable strap allows your mat to breath, even when in storage.

3. Support your poses the sustainable way with these eco-friendly Cork Yoga Blocks. These super lightweight blocks are incredibly durable and sport some pretty sexy sculpted edges for your comfort.

4. Ewww! What’s that smell? I know it’s not your yoga mat. Especially if you clean it with this Organic Super Yoga Mat Wash. This spray is USDA-certified organic, 100% natural and non-toxic, plus it leaves behind a refreshing scent after even your most vigorous hot yoga workout.

5. For the top dog in the natural rubber mat category, look no further than the EKO Mat by Manduka. This mat is born from renewable rubber trees and is also 100% biodegradable and also refuses to adsorb any of your moisture. The sea-grass texture adds traction while the manufacturing process minuses any foaming agents or plasticizers.

6. For a more laid back style check out this Recycled Yoga Mat Bag by Hugger Mugger. This spacious bag is made from colorful recycled strips of paper, with a cotton muslin lining. Use the integrated strap to throw it over your shoulder and go.

7. For extra grip, hygiene and comfort try the Kulae Hot Yoga Towel. This super-absorbent towel is antibacterial, latex and silicone-free, and 100% recyclable!

8. Stabilize your poses and our earth with these Organic Cotton Yoga Straps by Gaiam. This undyed and untreated strap is secure but also adaptable thanks to the quick adjust d-ring metal buckle.

Taza Chocolate is the type of product that we at IzzitGreen strive to find and introduce to our community.  Taza was founded on the principle of combining the Mesoamerican tradition of chocolate with a modern, high-quality production, and to do so in a socially responsible way.  Their products are sold both online and at specialty shops, farmers markets and other eco-friendly establishments.  In short, Taza makes great unique chocolate. They are the type of business that if you believe in fair trade or sustainability, is worthy of consumer support. This is precisely what we are asking the IzzitGreen community to do.

Why is it so urgent to purchase Taza Chocolate now?

A little over three weeks ago Taza Chocolate had just finished a major renovation of its Somerville Massachusetts headquarters & main production facility.  Then the rains came, and came, and came until Taza’s factory was flooded.  The founders Alex, Larry, Kathleen and the entire Taza team are doing a tremendous job getting things back on track.

How can we help?

We can help by visiting the Taza website and purchasing some great chocolate.  They say chocolate may actually be good for the heart.  Not something we are looking to debate right now but I do know instinctively that a great piece of chocolate is good for the soul.  So do your heart, soul, and palate a favor and visit Taza Chocolate.  Your purchase will taste great and you will be helping the good folks at Taza get back on their feet a little faster.  And for good measure IzzitGreen will donate 10% of our earnings on any Taza purchase to the Rainforest Alliance.

As my grandfather from Abruzzi used to say to me almost all the time, Manga!

Glasses, Sunglasses that is: ICU Eyewear’s Eco-Friendly Sunglasses Style 8710

A solid pair of eco-friendly sunglasses that aren’t out of this world expensive are hard to come by. Fortunately, I stumbled across ICU Eyewear’s Eco-Friendly Sunglasses Style 8710 while looking for a pair of eco-friendly reading glasses. Terra Sage sells the Style 8710 for just $21.95. The eco part, these sunglasses are made from 100% reclaimed material.

The Reusable Bag: RainaBags Navy Sallin

Reusable bags are great for beach going. The name says it all, they are reusable. After you use it for holding towels, books, and SPF, most you can reuse for your produce or even as a school bag. For reusable bags, the sustainably made RainaBags Navy Sallin is one of my all time favorites. RainaBags are made from organic fabrics that are soft and tough, and the quilted bottom of this bag makes it extra durable. If the Navy themed RainaBag is not your style don’t fret, check out other sustainably made RainaBag designs.

A Little Shade: Tilley Hemp Hat for Women

Tilley guarantees for life its hats will not wear out, shrink or fall apart! Plus, with a UPF 50+ rating, the Tilley Hemp Hat for Women provides exceptional protection against harmful ultraviolet rays that loiter the beach. The hemp fabric is also resistant to mold, mildew and salt water, it breathes well to keep your head cool, and the closed-cell foam in the crown makes the hat float if it strays into the water. And if Tilley hasn’t sold you yet, it features a classy wide brim style.

Boardwalk Bike, aka a “Cruiser”: Electra Townie Euro 8D Women’s Bike

When I think of cruising the boardwalk I think of an easy step-through design. Luckily REI sells the Electra Townie Euro 8D Women’s Bike. This casual rider is all about geometry – the rider is upright for a comfortable, heads-up positioning, and you can place both feet on the ground at a stop. Oh and it boasts Flat Foot Technology™ design that puts the bottom bracket and pedals well ahead of the seat post, resulting in a lower center of gravity, and full leg extension for increased comfort. All this comfort and cruising while reducing your carbon footprint!

Flip-Flops: Roxy Women’s Eden Eco-Friendly Recyclable Decompostable Flip-Flop

What’s better than a recyclable, decompostable flip-flop? Absolutely nothing. That’s why Roxy’s Eden Eco-Friendly Women’s Flip-Flop takes the cake. In addition to non-toxic, recyclable, decomposable EcoFoam and rubber, the graphics make this Roxy flip-flop a feel good, look good purchase.

Toddler Toys: Eco-Friendly Sand Play Set

If getting dirty is your thing, or you have a certain toddler in mind, this Eco-Friendly Sand Play Set takes your childhood beach set to a whole new level. These unisex toys are made in the USA, out of 100% recycled plastic.

Before you get started, you really do need a great blender in order to perfect your amazing creations. The Red Waring Professional Bar Blender is a great option.  It is so lovely to look at on the counter in it’s happy red shade and it blends your smoothies to perfection while also being a great value.

Strawberry-Banana Smoothie

The Strawberry-Banana Smoothie is great in the afternoon after a long day at the beach.  Super healthy and refreshing.

Ingredients:

1 frozen banana sliced

1 cup sliced strawberries

1 cup milk or vanilla soy milk

3-5 ice cubes

Put all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth and pourable consistency.

Peanut-Butter Banana Smoothie

The Peanut-Butter Banana Smoothie is my personal favorite.  I like the added protein boost from the Peanut Butter and the heartiness of it makes it feel like more of a meal than a snack. 

Ingredients:

1 frozen banana sliced

2 tbsp peanut butter

1 tbsp honey

½ cup milk or vanilla soy milk

3 ice cubes

Put all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth and pourable consistency.

Blueberry-Peach Smoothie

As it is blueberry season it would be great to make this smoothie with fresh picked berries for added freshness.  Store bought or roadside fruit stands are fine too.

Ingredients:

½ cup fresh blueberries

1 sliced peach

½ cup vanilla yogurt

1 tbsp honey

3-5 ice cubes

½ cup milk or vanilla soy milk

Put all ingredients in blender and blend until smooth and pourable consistency.

Smoothie Factoids:

Did you know that the Smoothie first became popular in the mid 1960s?

Did you know that it was not until the mid 1970s that the first trademark for Smoothies came out with the name “California Smoothie”?

Did you know that by the 2000s the Smoothie industry is a multi-billion dollar business?

Beach Trip: Apps & UV Monitoring Wristbands

iPhone App for EWG’s 2010 Sunscreen Guide

You’ve heard it a million times before, but you really do have to pack the sunscreen. And to help you pick the best sunscreen the Environmental Working Grouping (EWG) just launched a free iPhone application for their 2010 Sunscreen Guide. The guide includes more than 500 beach and sport sunscreens analyzed by EWG. Their app makes it easy to find a safe and effective sunscreen for the beach.

UVSunSense UV Monitoring Wristbands

If you are unsure when to reapply sunscreen, there are nifty little tools out there to help you monitor your exposure to harmful UV rays. The UVSunSense UV Monitoring Wristband is engineered to be used in conjunction with a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher to alert you to potential excessive exposure. Everyone can use a little reminder.

Destination Vacation: Sustainable Accommodations & Eco-Cities

Sustainable Accommodations: Whole Travel

Looking for sustainable accommodations around the world? Whole Travel claims to have compiled the most complete collection of sustainable accommodations available on the Internet. This beta website is pretty cool, helping you greenify your travel plans by directing you to the world’s best green hotels and resorts.

Explore an Eco-City: Time’s Green Design 100 Top Three Eco-Cities

If you are looking to explore an eco-city, visit one of Time’s Green Design 100 top three eco-cities: Tianjin Eco-City, Zira Zero Island, and Gwanggyo Power Center.

Tianjin Eco-City utilizes waste heat from a nearby power plant and emphasizes green modes of transport and water recycling. At Zira Zero Island each mountain is a residential development lined with strategically placed photovoltaics. Photovoltaics, or PVs, are arrays of cells that convert solar radiation into direct current electricity. Wind farms also help power the island. Gwanggyo Power Center builds green space upward instead of using valley-based designs that create smog.

Bike Trip

If you have been considering a road trip this summer consider turning it into a bike trip. You can save gas, save money, embrace nature, reduce your carbon footprint, and get a little exercise in. Plus, some big name brands like REI have a ton of eco-conscious bike gear and clothing. And who knows, this bike trip might motivate you and your friends to continue on the bike path for your commute and errands.

Day at the Spa

If a day at the spa to refresh and rejuvenate is in the cards, check out Organic Spa Magazine’s Top 10 Green Spas and Resorts. From a holistic spa to an organic farm and cooking school, one of their picks is sure to revitalize your spirit in an earth friendly manner.

Super, Duper Colorful Pasta Salad

I don’t know about you, but I am always looking for another Pasta Salad Recipe.  This one is sure to please and has lots of fresh and colorful ingredients.

4 ears of cooked corn – shredded off the cob and cooled

1 cup fresh edamame

1 small container grape tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes from your garden)

2 cups cooked orzo pasta – cooled

¼ cup crumbled feta or goat cheese

Salt and Pepper to taste

In a large bowl, combine the corn, edamame, tomatoes and orzo. I like this bowl from Stonewall Kitchen.

It is made from bamboo that is sourced from sustainable forests.

Mix well.  Sprinkle feta or goat cheese on top, then season with salt and pepper.  It is such a beautiful salad and it goes great with grilled fish, chicken or steak.  Bon Appétit!

Raspberry-Rhubarb Crumble

This is one of my favorite summer desserts.  The combination of flavors is beyond compare.

1 cup sugar

1 tbsp instant tapioca

1 tbsp cornstarch

1/8 tsp salt

3-1/2 cups cubed rhubarb

1-1/2 cups raspberries

½ cup brown sugar

½ cup flour

½ cup quick cooking oats

1 stick butter

½ cup slivered almonds

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.  In a large mixing bowl combine the sugar, tapioca, cornstarch and salt.  Fold in the rhubarb and raspberries until coated.  Pour into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan.  Set aside.  In a separate bowl, mix the brown sugar, flour and oats.  Mix in the butter and spread over the fruit.  Sprinkle with slivered almonds if desired.  Bake for 35-45 minutes.

To make this dessert, I recommend using a pretty serving dish like the ones found at Cooking.com. I like this one:

The color is super funky and it is deep so you can reuse this pan for just about any casserole, dessert or roast.

Factoids on 4^th of July:

Did you know that in 1791 the first recorded use of the name Independence Day occurred?

Did you know that in 1820 the first 4^th of July celebration was held in Eastport, Maine?

Did you know that in 2009, New York City had the largest fireworks display in the country, with over 22 tons of pyrotechnics?