1. House of Marley Headphones: eco-conscious headphones of superior quality and style made by a company honestly committed to giving back, but would Bob approve?

2. Eco-Friendly Kids’ Party Favors: some awesome ideas for filling favor bags at your child’s next birthday party that will wow their friends, parents and the eco-minded.

3. How to Recycle Butane Fuel Canisters: examines a nifty little tool that can help you easily and responsibly dispose of your used camping stove fuel canisters.

4. Pet-Safe and Eco-Friendly Lawn Care: some advice on fertilizers, pest control and weed killers that are safe for the planet and pets.

5. Eco-Barefoot Running Shoes Guide: the final installment of a three part series that outlines the top ten sustainable barefoot running shoes out there.

6. Eco-Friendly Yoga Mats: an in-depth look at different types of sustainable yoga mats and some recommendations for mats to try.

7. Very Eco Wedding Guest Dresses: fashionable and Earth-friendly options to turn heads at your next special occasion.

8. Top 10 Bamboo Lingerie, Organic Intimates and Eco-Underthings: a countdown of the top pics of stunning and feel-good pieces that are sure to please. Who ever said that eco couldn’t be exciting?!

9. 21 Bamboo and Organic Yoga Pants: an extensive list of the best yoga pants, shorts and capris from companies with a conscience.

10. Smaller Footprints with Recycled Material Tents: a rare look at two tents using recycled materials that you may have never heard of.

From all of us at IzzitGreen, thanks for all of your support to make 2011 an amazing year. Onward and upward!

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Based in Salt Lake City, UT Niche Snowboards is set apart from the masses through its complete and ground-up dedication to environmentally friendly construction materials. Niche is on a crusade to de-toxify the snowboard industry and is leading by example with a line of minimal impact snowboards.

Aether

The Aether, for example, is Niche’s answer for the all-mountain freestyle rider. This versatile board has a sustainably harvested poplar core for a mid-stiff flex. It also uses Niche’s Snappy-Sap(TM) bio-resin that, as you might imagine, is made from bio-renewable materials as opposed to the commonplace petroleum-based epoxies. Not only does this resin have a much lower environmental impact, but its incredibly strong bonding ability saves your board from the horror of delamination. Awesome.

Minx

This tricksy Minx park board was made just for the ladies, but don’t worry, no need to be gentle. Niche’s Magma Fiber (TM) is constructed from basalt, which as we all know from seventh grade science class, forms when volcanic lava cools. Magma Fiber (TM) provides a huge improvement over fiberglass. Not only is this magic material stronger, more elastic and lighter, but it is non-toxic, much easier to recycle and avoids the greenhouse gases that are released during fiberglass processing. So start hitting the boxes with this awesome eco-ride, and stop contributing to the bra tree.

Hoodie

Although primarily a hardgoods company, I had to throw in the Niche Hoodie. Available in either a hemp and organic cotton or bamboo and organic cotton blend, these long-fit hoodies are perfect for a little apres board and could even double as a dress for the ladies. The selective vertical branding and thumb holes are details that are as refreshing as they are full of attitude.

So much to say, such little space. So, make sure to check out all of Niche’s ecological know-how on its technologies page. Even though this awesome company is triumphing in its own eco-corner, I can only hope that the rest of the industry will smarten up and follow suit. We are in for a long, snowy winter. Trust me, I have a knack for these things. Time to grab your board (or sticks if that’s your thing) and pray for pow.

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Image Credit: Niche Snowboards

Sustainable and functional isn’t necessarily boring, and yoga isn’t just about posing. Meet Plank, a company created by the bold British designer Doreen Hing whose brassy personality shines through in all of her products. Much like its maker, this luxury brand confronts the norm and challenges people to think about yoga in a new and spirited way.

Artistic

Plank yoga mats have no trouble standing out from the crowd thanks to the company’s innovative “art on mat” concept. The gallery quality images on every Plank mat make it temping to store yours on the wall as art. Forget rolling it up and stuffing your mat into a corner. A few months ago I was sent the Shag Luxe Yoga Mat which displays a nostalgic image of a retro carpet complete with downward dog hand prints. At first, I thought the image would be distracting, but after some classes I found that it was actually just the opposite. The quasi-repetitive pattern acts almost like a Magic Eye image with a very meditative effect. My Plank mat’s distinct artwork became a type of visual representation of my own quiet time; something that an uninspiring, blue foam mat could never accomplish. Like Plank’s other three original mat designs, the Shag Luxe Mat offers a witty humor and a generous perspective that puts a smile on my face every time I unroll it. As Austin Powers says, “Ooo, Behave!”

Functional

Who ever said that art can’t have utility? In this case, your Plank canvas also doubles as a yoga mat!  An amazing one at that. I really appreciated the high-quality grip layer that is actually activated by the heat and pressure from my feet and hands, which comes in really useful on my less flexible days when it feels like it’s just me vs. me. This special layer also serves to protect your artwork and keep it looking unused and bold up on your wall. The emphasis on function as well as fashion results in a mat that’s beautiful, never slippery and always the perfect firmness, as opposed to some other mats that are too squishy and make me feel off balance. Plank mats are incredibly well constructed and built for the long haul so they won’t start to fall apart after a few classes like cheap foam or PVC options.

Sustainable

Each Plank yoga mat is made from fully sustainable natural rubber. Unlike synthetic rubber, the natural stuff is sourced from renewable rubber trees. Natural rubber also requires significantly less energy to produce than its synthetic counterpart. When it’s all said and done the harvesting, processing and transporting of natural rubber consumes only about one fourth the amount of energy that synthetic rubber production does. So stretch deep and breath easy. Plank yoga mats don’t come cheap and they aren’t super light, but in my humble opinion you get more than what you pay for. I would rather bear a few extra ounces to take a little weight off the environment and spend a few extra bucks to own a mat with character that will last a lifetime, than float around with a boring, PVC-laden wafer of a mat. Proud to be a Planker.

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Image Credit: Plank, Alina Jesien

1. Skip the costume rush this autumn and throw a little creativity into the pot to make your own Halloween costumes. Often just things hiding in the back of your closet, your trash can, or a thrift store are bursting with possibilities. For inspiration check out these cardboard box ideas from Inhabitat.
2. Save your skin and the environment and paint on some organic, non-toxic makeup from Luna Organics.
3. A personal favorite of mine, and a tactic that I have employed more than once, Trail’s Edge offers up some interesting ways to use your outdoor gear to create a costume that was meant to go outside.
4. Inspire others and voice your opinion with an eco-message pumpkin. Try carving out the earth, a tree or the recycle sign.
5. Carry around a reusable tote or pillow case to hold your candy instead of a plastic bag. Those grocery bags were never big enough or strong enough to handle my loot anyways.
6. Hand out sustainable treats likes the fair trade chocolate gold coins from Divine or the unique and natural Ginger People Ginger Chews.
7. Set the mood with some eco decorations like these fair trade skeleton streamers that are handmade in Mexico.
8. O.K. I already said this, but there are so many great costume ideas! Here are some more from the Eco News Network.
9. The Green Girls offer instructions for making your own organic face paint for the true DIYers.
10. Watch one of these green Halloween movies from Alternative Consumer’s list to get you in the mood.
11. Browse Etsy for unique handmade costumes and beautiful decorations.
12. Try to find a Halloween costume swap in your area. Although National Costume Swap Day is October 8th, there are still many locations that have decided to hold their swaps later in the month.
13. EcoKaren talks about how she made her very own solar powered, reusable jack-o-lantern. No more pumpkin guts to clean up the next morning that always results in fist shaking and profanity.
14. Use a hand crank or solar powered flashlight for battery-free safety when the sun goes down.
15. Compost your used pumpkins and uneaten candy!
16. Carefully pack away decorations so you can use them again next year. R is for reuse.
17. Decorate with LED lights. They last forever and are incredibly energy efficient!
18. Do some reverse trick-or-treating by attaching a Global Exchange flier to some fair trade chocolate to build awareness about the problems facing the cocoa industry.
19. Skip the toxic paraffin wax candles in your jack-o-lanterns and look for organic, soy-based candles that last longer too.
20. Be resourceful with your pumpkins. Add some salt and bake the seeds. Cook the flesh. Here are ten ways to use a pumpkin for some inspiration.
21. Reuse candy wrappers for crafts. Make candy wrapper jewelry or cover the front of a journal.
22. Skip the candy all together and hand out useful items like soy-based crayons, seed packets or stickers of endangered animals.

I know that there are a million other ways out there to green your Halloween. What are some of your ideas?

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Image Credit: Amazon, Luna Organics, EcoKaren, Peter Hughes

1. PETE Backpack

The PETE Backpack is made with recycled plastic reducing strain on new materials, plus the comfortable straps, useful zippered dividers and life-saving key holder make it hard to pass up.

2. NYC Messenger Bag

The NYC Messenger Bag proudly wears a hip cityscape that screams cool while the material made from 100% post-consumer plastic bottles and adjustable cross strap for biking add some major green cred.

3. Pike Messenger by Alchemy Goods

With a super functional separated section for your laptop and highly reflective safety tape, the Pike Messenger has all the essentials. Plus, this bag is made from up-cycled inner tubes and a recycled seat belt shoulder strap for extra green style.

4. Voltaic Converter Solar Backpack

With four watts of solar power the Converter Backpack is ready to charge your cell phone, mp3 player and laptop. Plus, even when that big ball in the sky isn’t available the battery stores up to 19 hours of talk time or 48 hours of music playback.

5. The Green Backpack

Well the name says it all. The Green Backpack is made from 65% recycled material that is lightweight and durable for all of your scholastic adventures. Thanks to the mp3 pocket and ear bud slit the tunes continue well after school.

6. Troubadour Tote

To go back to school in style check out the Troubadour Tote. Handmade in Seattle this vegan stylish bag is crafted from glazed cotton giving it a leather-like appearance that is vegan friendly and lead-free.

7. Glacier Backpack

Rugged and polished at the same time, the Glacier from Ecogear dons a moisture wicking mesh back and is made from recycled PET bottles and non-toxic dyes and materials.

8. Timbuk2 Hidden Messenger

Whoa! Where did it go?! This super lightweight Hidden Messenger is made from 90% recycled PET bottles and is all about convenience. When not in use this bag stuffs into a palm-sized zipper pouch making it ready to go anywhere.

9. Ecoalf Spring Backpack

Talk about classic. The Spring Backpack is made of soft nylon from recycled discarded fishing nets, has a padded laptop sleeve and looks flawless.

10. Sakku Buddy Messenger Bag

Sakku Buddy, where solar meets style. With a battery that can store solar energy and unique Swiss style, you can feel good about the Buddy knowing that all emissions from production are offset by Sakku.

Now that you have your sustainable backpack, things are looking up. Don’t forget to complete your mission by adding a reusable lunch sack like Kids Konserve or Robot Lunch Bag. With a little preparation and eco-karma, who knows? It may be your best year yet!

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Image Credit: Bambeco, Green Backpack, Crystalyn Kae, Ecogear, Timbuk2, Ecoalf, Primecut, MorgueFile, Voltaic

Pure Pooch Really Clean

Pure Pooch sent Emmett a bottle to try, and I hesitated because the packaging boasted a pure grapefruit scent. I tend to keep scented products away from my dogs because their noses are so sensitive, scents are unnecessary irritants. However, the pros outweighed the single con. The natural formula is soap-free and contains conditioners, both of which help keep his skin from over-drying. Plus, the product is paraben-free, biodegradable, and isn’t tested on animals.

All Terrain Pet Wonder Shampoo

This fragrance-free formula is a mild, biodegradable cleanser. All Terrain sent Emmett a bottle to try since we already use its insect-repellents. While this isn’t a soap-free product, the ingredient list includes olive oil to help hydrate your dog’s skin. And instead of preservatives, the shampoo uses sea salt instead. Purchasing these products funds eco-conscious causes: All Terrain is an environmentally progressive company that supports outdoor activity, conservation, and environmental organizations.

AvoDerm Natural Skin and Coat Shampoo

AvoDerm, manufactured by Breeder’s Choice, is formulated specifically for dry skin. It’s made from real avocado oil, which helps maintain the oils on your dog’s skin. This shampoo lathers more than the other two, which means a lot more rinsing time. However, the extra time is worth it; this shampoo keeps Emmett’s coat smooth and shiny, which attracts a lot of attention when he’s doing his therapy dog work.

Image: faul

ECO Logical Skin Care has challenged the norm and taken advantage of extensive studies performed in Australia, where skin cancer rates per capita are the highest in the world,  and where incredibly advanced research on sun exposure is heavily promoted. The result is one of the safest sunscreens around for you, your children and the environment.

ECO Sunscreen Protects You

ECO Sunscreen was given the highest overall score of 1 by the Environmental Working Group. The EWG is an independent research and information provider in the public health and environment sectors that works to expose threats to our health and the environment. ECO Sunscreen received this prestigious rating by keeping their sunscreen free of chemical UV absorbers, artificial preservatives and fragrances. ECO Logical uses only naturally and organically sourced, chemical-free ingredients that contribute to a sunscreen that is safe, balanced, antioxidant-rich, hypoallergenic and filled with nutritious support for your family’s skin. ECO Sunscreen uses non-whitening zinc to cut sun exposures as opposed to harmful chemicals found in many other sunscreens. ECO Logical offers this sun-blocker in three distinct formulas. The Face version is great under make-up and the non-greasy, non-comedogenic formula won’t clog your pores or weigh you down. ECO Sunscreen Body is best for all over protection and nourishment with antioxidants like green tea and grape seed. Finally, ECO Sunscreen Baby is filled with extra gentle moisturizers like shea butter and jojoba perfect for little ones or anyone with sensitive skin plus it has a no-sting eye benefit.

ECO Sunscreen Protects the Environment

While you’re slathering on protection you can also be helping to protect fragile marine life. ECO Sunscreen is the official sunscreen of the Surfrider Foundation, a powerful activist network committed to the protection of our oceans and beaches. ECO Sunscreen is biodegradable and lacks toxic UV absorbing chemicals that threaten marine life, including fragile corals. Plus, this zinc sunblock’s superior water resistance makes it a top choice for wave surfers everywhere. There is a lot of marine life out there, and it just happens to be maybe a little important in how things run around here. Do your part and choose a sunblock like ECO Sunscreen that is safe for you and the environment.

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Image Credit: ECO Logical Skin Care, Morgue File

The Blue One Tent

The Blue One Tent is made from 40%  rip stop organic cotton and 60% recycled PET fabric. These stunning specs turned some heads this year at the 2011 ISPO sports trade fair, and Vaude walked away with an Eco Responsibility Award for their tent and the Most Sustainable Company Award. These awards were added to others like the Public’s Choice Award that Vaude won last October from Utopia, a German network for sustainable living. This two person home away from home is not only eco-friendly, it weighs just over five pounds, making it easy on your back as well as your conscience. No additional dyes were used in the production of the Blue One which results in its simply beautiful “ecru” color.

Vaude and Green Shape

Ever since its conception, this family owned company has fostered a strong focus on innovation for greener outdoor gear. In the early 90s Vaude created Ecolog products that were 100% made of polyester so that they could be completely recycled at the end of their life. This includes zippers, labels, thread and everything in between. Vaude also produces one third of its electricity needs regionally using renewable and emission free options, as well as utilizing large photovoltaic systems at the headquarters and factory outlet.

More recently, Vaude has initiated their Green Shape Protocol that rates the “econess” of their products. To obtain Green Shape status a product must contain at least 90% recycled materials or organic cotton. A product can progress even further and become a Bluesign product if at least 95% of the product is Bluesign certified, including textiles and components. Vaude also includes an “On the Way” category for products that have less than 90% recycled content or have their own eco labels such as Cocona®. Currently 16% of the 2011 Vaude summer collection has Green Shape status and the company expects that the winter collection will reach 30% compliance.

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Image Credit: Vaude

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

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