Green Solutions Product Picks

By Madelyn Lipszyc

1. Tal-ya Water Systems

Instead of watering your plants, let the dew do it for you! This revolutionary new water system is recyclable, and reusable for up to 10 years. It collects condensation and directs it to the roots of your crops. It also prevents evaporation, limits the need for pesticides, and can even help regulate temperature. www.tal-ya.com

2. Act Naturals Hair "Dye"

Dye or tint your hair with 100% plant-based dye, and with none of the chemicals, smell, or wastefulness of the usual drug-store brands. Advanced Cosmetic Technologies boasts even a "carton and insert material, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), made of 80% post-consumer materials and printed with vegetable inks. The energy used by the printer to make the cartons is fueled by wind power." All the packaging is recyclable. Many other "green" hair dyes still contain chemicals. With Act Naturals: no ammonia, no bleach, just happy healthy hair! www.actnaturals.com

3. Recycled Steel Fire Pits

Hand-cut and uniquely designed fire pits to liven up your outdoor space. Most are designed for natural gas or propane burners to cap emissions. Even unlit, they are sure to complement any art lover's space. A bit on the pricey side, but built to last for generations. Maintenance-free! Hand-cut and uniquely designed fire pits to liven up your outdoor space. Most are designed for natural gas or propane burners to cap emissions. Even unlit, they are sure to complement any art lover’s space. A bit on the pricey side, but built to last for generations. Maintenance-free!
www.johntunger.com

4. Enersol-Solar Pool Heating System

Lasting 20 years or longer, this device will save you money and energy. Pool water filters through solar panels, and then the heated water returns to your pool. BPA free! www.enersol.com

5. Chairs and Tables Made From Recycled Wine Barrels

Furniture shopping can be fun and easy on the environment. While wine barrels commonly had a single use in their lifetime, it is now possible to purchase funky furniture created out of their remains. Solid, recycled, landfill-diverted, and great conversation pieces!
www.uncommongoods.com

6. Brilliant Earth Recycled Jewellery

Buying an engagement ring, or a gift for your loved one does not have to result in environmental damage from mining anymore! Brilliant Earth has designed some fantastic second-generation rings and earrings. Conflict-free and ethical, these diamonds have been picked from fairly-paid hands. They claim that "every piece we cast is made with 100% recycled and re-refined precious metals." You can even create your own design! www.brilliantearth.com

7. Samsung's Reclaim Cell Phone

With an exterior made of 80% recycled plastic water bottles, this phone can give talking a new joie de vivre. Recyclable packaging and user manual are made with soy-based ink. Really affordable, this phone notifies you when it's fully charged to save energy. All I want to know is, what's the other 20% made of?
www.gizmodo.com

8. Recycled Binders

Perfect for all your back-to-school needs! It seems like each September we need more and more binders. Now you can get one that is 100% recycled. You can provide your own custom design, and the binders come in a variety of sizes, including legal. www.earthbinder.com

9. Juice Box Bag

Everyone needs vitamins and one of the ways we can get them is in juice. Unfortunately, many companies have marketed juice in an unsustainable way. Fortunately, thefind.com has amended their poor ways by offering chic and fashionable purses and bags made of recycled materials such as sea shells, magazines, and even phone books! www.urthbags.com

10. Eco Yoga Mat

With a good grip, working out can still be sustainable. Made from all-natural rubber and jute fiber with no toxic ingredients, this mat will completely biodegrade in a landfill. However, the source of the rubber used is not explicit, and the mat is not made from pre-used materials. www.barefootyoga.com