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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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

Nothing But the Best from Revo

The Guide Sunglasses are a star member of Revo’s Eco Sustainable Style Collection, offering super high performance for any outdoor junky. One of the most innovative features is Revo’s Motion-Fit (TM) system that balances pressure points so that your glasses stay put for a perfect fit. No more hiking your glasses up your nose when you’re looking down. The quality also extends to the Serilium (TM) lenses that are constructed from a super strong polycarbonate that can withstand impact from gravel and debris. Plus, the high contrast polarization and anti-reflective coating add major value and brilliance to the world around you. These prescription-ready optics block 100% of UVB, UVA and UVC light and and are available in three practical lens tints: graphite, bronze, and water.

Sustainable Style

No matter which of the seven frame colors you choose, Revo has made sure to be as environmentally conscious as possible. Some frames offer sustainable performance through Revo Re-Use (TM) in which the frames are precision molded from 100% recycled polymer resins or nylon plastics that would otherwise become trash. Other frames offer Eco-Use (TM) in which Revo employs a strong TR-90 nylon frame material made from castor bean seeds instead of petroleum. The result is a very light and flexible frame that is 60% bio-based. Check out this movie in which Revo explains both of their eco-processes.

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Image Credit: Revo

Chalk It Up

Jot down to-dos for the whole family on the Dusty Girl Chalkboard by See Jane Work. Chalk up each day’s pet-care responsibilities, and have each family member cross off their tasks. The board is made from non-formaldehyde, 100% recycled wood MDF core, and the darling dog-shaped eraser is cut from scrap felt. Or, for Scotty lovers, check out the breed chalkboard with bone-shaped eraser.

Take Notes

EcoJot offers mini notebooks with dog- and cat-themed designs. Write each family member a note with their responsibilities for the week, and post them on the fridge or somewhere visible so that everyone stays on top of their chores. In addition to the minis, the brand also sells bound journals featuring dogs and cats. Check out my personal favorite, the Dog Sweaters perfect bound notebook.

Details, Details

If you have a pet with an illness or chronic condition, tracking medicine doses and feeding times becomes even more important. A larger notebook like this recycled paper Kitty Cat Spiral Notebook gives you plenty of room to track all the pertinent information for you, your family, and your pet sitters. Hint: With careful, consistent note taking about your pet’s care, you’ll have a comprehensive resource to review with your vet if your animal’s condition changes.

Simplify

The Sit ME notepad by lobotoME provides a ready-made checklist for all pet-sitting instructions. With all the details in one convenient, streamlined place, everyone has simple access to your pet’s most important information. The 5.5 x 8.5 notepad contains 50 sheets and is printed on white recycled paper with a chip board backing.

Image credit: Aurelijus Valeisa

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

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

According to their website Arc’teryx maintains that “a high quality product that retains its performance properties and aesthetic appeal for many years is more environmentally responsible than one that must be replaced frequently due to inferior materials, poor quality workmanship, or seasonally influenced fashion trends.” An important consideration and notable point when entire product life cycles are taken into account as they should be. However more recently, Arc’teryx has also begun to use recycled fleece in some of their products, such as the Strato Jacket and Strato Hoody.

Strato Jacket and Strato Hoody

The Strato Jacket and Strato Hoody are made with sturdy Polartec ® Thermal Pro ® Cobble mostly composed of recycled polyester. The laminated zippers, DWR finish and light insulation make these jackets perfect to wear alone, while the low profile reduces layering bulk when they are worn with a shell. Following Arc’teryx tradition, the jackets are premium quality and beautifully designed.

Bird’s Nest Initiative

Arc’teryx also deserves some credit for their social initiatives. Several years ago two Arc’teryx employees, Tara Latham and Sean Wood, started an initiative that is as inspiring as it is resourceful. The Bird’s Nest Initiative re-purposes end of rail and discontinued fabrics into GORE-TEX® rain capes for Vancouver’s homeless. This will be the project’s third year. In 2009 Arc’teryx handed out 300 capes through the Salvation Army, and last year Arc’teryx employees sewed 560 capes!

All of the capes are sewn by employees who volunteer their time to come in and make a difference. Arc’teryx makes an effort to recognize theses workers’ generosity by providing them with time off in lieu of pay. As Vancouver receives over 40 inches of rainfall a year, the Bird’s Nest Initiative is a valued program that not only clothes those in need, but also creates social awareness of the homeless population in the city.

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Image Credit: Arc’teryx, Altrec.com, TreeHugger.com

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

National Trails Day also serves to point out that a beautiful trail network doesn’t just manifest out of thin air. The trails that we can sometimes take for granted required countless hours of planning and labor put forth by a coalition of dedicated enthusiasts. This Saturday think about getting a little dirt on your hands and taking part in any of the local trail repair, creation or maintenance projects in your area. You can also share this holiday by taking part in many other activities including walks, gear demos, bike rides, paddle trips, horse rides and kids programs.

And if you’re looking for some eco-friendly hiking gear to support your endeavours, you’ve come to the right place.

The North Face Venture Jacket

The Venture is no stranger to fame. Awarded the Backpacker Magazine Editor’s Choice Award in 2011 as well as being named a Sustainability All Star by Apparel Magazine this lightweight, waterproof hard shell is made with HyVent R DT EC derived from natural Castor oil from beans, reducing its synthetic membrane components by 50%. It comes in a million different colors in both Men’s and Women’s styles.

Justin’s Organic Nut Butter Blend

Justin’s protein-rich snack is USDA certified organic and certified kosher. Naturally sweetened with honey with no added oils or sugars, Nut Butter is a delicious and healthy boost. The convenient squeeze packaging is perfect for sandwich or fruit application. But with flavors like Maple Almond and Honey Peanut you just might want to eat it straight out of the package.

Patagonia Drifter GORE-TEX R Hiking Shoe

This Outside Magazine Eco-All-Star has a 80% post consumer recycled polyurethane insole, POLI-CORK TM 70% recycled foot bed and a Vibram R 30% recycled rubber outsole. Whew, talk about a green resume! This hiking shoe is perfect for sloppy conditions thanks to its full-grain leather upper and GORE-TEX R membrane to keep you dry.

Sherpani Rumba Superlight Child Carrier

This ultralight carrier makes it easy to bring the little one along. A padded, adjustable bucket seat, sunshade or rain topper and soft foam child harness makes sure that they don’t miss any of the nature action. Made from 67% recycled nylon this versatile carrier makes a great eco-statement during a day hike or while running errands around town.

Dahlgren Ultra Light Alpaca Socks

Dahlgren Alpaca socks are domestically made with zones of merino wool, alpaca and Eco-Spun TM which is made from 100% post consumer polyester. These zones provide the perfect blend of cushion, temperature control and moisture release for a comfortable and dry day on the trails. Available in both Men’s and Women’s sizes.

Tomorrow head out the door and share an old favorite or a brand new trail with a friend or loved one. Happy National Trails Day everyone!

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Image Credit: MorgueFile, The North Face, Justin’s Nut Butter, REI, Patagonia

First, by default, barefoot running shoes typically weigh significantly less than conventional running shoes. This allows for a proportionately lower environmental impact during manufacturing and shipping. In addition, barefoot running shoes tend to last about twice as long as other running shoes, therefore encouraging less consumption and waste.

Some of the secondary effects include a lighter impact on trails and wilderness by runners using a natural running stride. Additionally, the barefoot running phenomenon could get more people outside, initiating more concern for natural environments as well as a healthier lifestyle including better diets for people and the planet. Some companies are taking things a step further by using eco-friendly materials and processes to produce greener barefoot running shoes.

That being said, if you’re looking to dip your toes into the barefoot running phenomenon, here are my top picks for eco-barefoot running shoes:

1. Kigo

Kigo stands out by providing the running community with lightweight and affordable eco-friendly barefoot running shoes. The slip-on style Kigo Edge provides full foot coverage and a super-grip outsole and bumper for all conditions. The Edge uppers are made from CYCLEPET, which is a stretchy recycled material, while the shoe also has a recycled lining and EVA insole. Kigo uses only non-toxic dyes and water-based adhesives throughout its entire shoe line.

2. VivoBarefoot EVO

The EVO uses a removable/washable recycled memory foam insole and a 50 percent recycled antibacterial lining to keep you eco-fresh. VivoBarefoot is the creator of the first minimalist shoe with a patented, ultra-thin (4mm), puncture-resistant sole that provides both maximum sensory feedback and protection. This presents a key feature as VivoBarefoot believes that 70 percent of the brain’s information about movement comes from nerves on the soles of your feet. I hope you’re not ticklish!

The company uses recycled, locally-sourced materials as well as efficient and eco-friendly production techniques in their independently monitored ethical factories.

3. Newton Sir Issac

Or maybe I should say the Sir Issac (made by) Newton. A great transitional eco-barefoot running shoe, these have beveled heels and toes that guide you to strike the ground mid-foot as opposed to on your heal.

The Sir Issac uses an ECOPET recycled insole top cover as well as 10 percent recycled outer sole rubber. The Newton company has used innovation to create a clever 100 percent, post-consumer waste shoe box that uses soy-based inks, and 100 percent recycled yarn shoelaces and webbing.

4. Vibram FiveFingers Smartwool Classics

The Vibram FiveFingers shoes are probably some of the most visible barefoot running shoes in the market, thanks to their “gorilla/panther foot slippers” appearance as described by our local enthusiast in last week’s Barefoot Runner Interview. The Vibram Smartwool Classics allow the freedom of a barefoot with the famous protection and grip of the Vibram sole. With an sustainable smartwool upper, these eco-barefoot running shoes provide great moisture wicking and breathability even when you feel like you’re being chased by a hairdryer. The smartwool also is naturally antimicrobial and stinks less.

5. Vibram FiveFingers Treksport

Another great choice for our toe wiggling friends, the Vibram FiveFingers Treksport shoes are constructed with a tough, abrasion-resistant, coconut active carbon upper. Coconut active carbon is a renewable resource that comes from beautiful coconut trees and provides great natural breathability to keep you cool and cruisin’. Available in both Men’s and Women’s versions.

6. Sockwa Amphibian

The Sockwa Amphibian, appropriately named, allows the adventurous trail runner to transition effortlessly from land to water. The anti-slip TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) sole is perfect for wilderness environments and creates the feeling of wearing reinforced socks for ultimate ground feel. The Amphibian shoes are crushable, washable, durable and made locally in Ventura, California.

Sockwa encourages folks to “tread earth lightly,” and strives to follow their own advice through eco-efficiency in their office and production cycle, eco-responsible packaging, reduced toxicity in all of their products and manufacturing processes with minimal environmental impacts. Plus as part of the UNEP Billion Tree Campaign, Sockwa will plant a tree for every Amphibian shoe sold!

7. Soft Star RunAmoc Lite

The Soft Star RunAmocs are super lightweight, eco-barefoot running shoes with a ventilated upper using genuine sheep skin that naturally wicks away moisture and controls temperature. The wide toe box allows toes to spread out and you have the option to choose your sole between Vibram trail and street alternatives.

If you want even more customization, you can build shoes to your personal measurements and even pick from different materials to create smooth leather, vegetable-tanned leather, suede or vegan mocs! The shoes are so customizable because they are handmade in Corvallis, Oregon using leather from local tanneries that meet strict environmental standards and use no formaldehyde in the tanning process. All of the dyes that Soft Star uses are non-toxic and FDA approved, plus all of their power usage comes from wind and solar!

8. Jinga Originals

Well not exactly for running, if your looking to bring more of a eco-barefoot feel into your salsa or zumba class, check out the 100 percent vegan Jinga Originals. The dynamic TPU sole will keep you agile and, at 300g a pair, Jingas are guaranteed not to weigh you down. These vibrant shoes reflect the Brazilian vibrant culture with their style as they are 100 percent made in Brazil using factories with high standard working conditions.

All of the shoe materials are also locally sourced in Brazil and Jinga has received the “Green Seal” which is awarded by the Brazilian Government for environmental best practices. All of Jinga’s manufacturing waste is recycled and 25 percent of their profits are reinvested in Brazilian social projects for impoverished communities such as out-of-school activity programs for children.

9. Inov-8 Bare-Grip 200

Inov-8 has created something special with the Bare-Grip 200 by mastering a perfect blend of the barefoot sensation with the protection of a trail shoe. This shoe lacks a mid-sole to insure a direct power transfer from your foot to the shoe, for increased efficiency and feel.

But Inov-8 didn’t limit innovation R&D to their footwear line. The company recently set up an environmental “audit system” to evaluate their environmental impact. Inov-8 found that a whopping 65 percent of their carbon footprint could be attributed to staff travel, while freight impact came in second, accounting for 16 percent. Since these discoveries, the company has been investigating the use of 100 percent renewable energy sources, only shipping urgent samples by air, shipping direct from factories nearest to sea ports, using digital photography assessment of returned items and has decided not to provide company cars while encouraging employees to use alternative transportation methods.

10. Brooks Green Silence

I know that I’ve mentioned this shoe before, but I really can’t help myself. The Brooks’ Green Silence is a performance racing flat focused on green and speed, and is a great eco-running shoe if you’re looking to go slightly less than barefoot. The mid-sole is biodegradable and thick enough to support you in mile to marathon. Brooks also adds in some of their eco, high-abrasion rubber specifically in high wear spots for durability and minimal, light-weight design. With a lacing system that fits like a glove and minimal seams to eliminate rubbing, it’s no wonder I keep talking about them.

So whether you are an avid runner or just getting started, barefoot running shoes can provide a great medium for you to connect with your environment in a new way. And why not protect that environment while you’re at it by supporting companies that are providing responsible and sustainable options for runners looking to go natural?

Tip– When shopping for eco-barefoot running shoes always make sure to check sizing recommendations and adjustments as barefoot running shoe sizing can be slightly different than normal running shoes.

If you want to learn more take a look back at parts one and two: Barefoot Running 101, and Q&A with an Avid Barefoot Runner.

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Image credits: Kigo, VivoBarefoot, Newton Running, Eastern Mountain Sports, Vibram, Sockwa, Soft Star, Jinga, Inov-8, Brooks.