Laura Malesich
-
Hospitals Can Be Green Too
Creating a more earth-friendly environment especially where patients go to heal is something I've been waiting to see. In a place that uses loads of energy for lighting and equipment plus plenty of chemicals to sanitize spaces it would be nice to see it try greener strategies wherever it can. In the seaside town of Split, Croatia a new medical center has been designed by 3HLD. Taking the typical structure they then added green spaces inside the building as well as a protective outer shell that acts as a sunscreen. The additional connection to nature ensures patients and doctors are never far from natural light, natural ventilation or gorgeous seaside views.Napkins
Resist the stacks of napkins given from fast-food joints and eateries.
Mod Green Pod Wallpaper
Choose eco-friendly wallpaper and save yourself from toxin-leaching textiles.
Pippi Stool for Kids
Flat-pack furniture makes so much sense! Easy to ship, simple to store, and incredibly innovative. The children's Pippi stool, designed by Ragnheidur Osp Sigurdardottir (say that three times fast!), captures both modern laser-cut design and traditional antique curves while keeping green sensibilities in mind. This vintage perch is only thirteen inches tall and costs between $68 and $90. You can buy it in either red, green or birch and keep it close to craft tables, kitchen counters or computer desks. [via Inhabitots]
Magazine Mayhem
Stop purchasing magazines and save some green (and some trees)!
Tiny Herb Garden
Don't miss out on growing your own herbs.
Beauty Swapping
Clear out your cosmetics and swap with your friends!
A Better Lip Balm
Give up your petroleum-based lip balm for a greener alternative.
A Better TP
Switch to earth-friendly TP!
Reused Boxes
Moving? Don't use new boxes -- discover used options.
Guyot Designs for People On-the-Go
I love anything that is multi-purpose, simple, and green too! Whether you're a parent, adventurer, weekend warrior, outdoor explorer or always on the road you'll appreciate Guyot Designs' line of eco-friendly alternatives to disposable bottles, utensils and bowls. Squishy Bowls are foldable, packable, microwavable and easy to clean. Guyot Utensils offer 5-in-1 capability with two simple tools also available in Micro-Bites. Lastly, the Firefly turns your water bottle into an instant lantern which is just too cool for words. Check out the gallery below and imagine how well Guyot Designs would fit into your green lifestyle. (FYI - You can buy them at REI, Dicks Sporting Goods and Eastern Mountain Sports). 
The First Puppy Gets Green Housing
Although the first pooch has not been chosen yet the impending purchase has prompted Sustainable Pet Design to create the perfect shelter for the future fur ball. The stately yet eco-friendly design is made from red cedar and features a green roof that provides extra space for plants. The cedar used is from previously felled trees donated and the house will also feature low-VOC paints from AC+DC. Typically sustainably built houses from SPD cost between $1,000 and $3,000 depending on the size but I imagine this 'First Pet House' will be donated? Check out the gallery for more innovative and green pet house designs. [via Inhabitat]
Tip of the Day - Apple Cider Vinegar
Use apple cider vinegar for multiple household uses.
Undies Reusable?
It's always a hard thing to have items you no longer need but still have use left in them. Underwear has to be one of the hardest to find a new home but there are a few options. Surprisingly you can donate them to the local Goodwill or Salvation Army as long as they are in great shape. You can also submit them to Patagonia for their 'Common Threads' program recycling old clothing to make new pieces. Lastly, and my personal favorite, you can donate new or gently used under garments to Project Underwear (or P.U.) which supplies children in third world countries with skivvies. Plenty of options for those underoos. [via Ideal Bite]
Local Food Movement Grows Even in Recession
As the economy brings challenges to everyone it's interesting to note what changes people make in everyday habits like food purchasing. Although from 1986 to 2006 the use of grocery stores lost a little to the big box store competition like WalMart it seems that more local food vendors are gaining ground. CSA's (community supported agriculture) and farmer's markets have increased exponentially over the past twenty years. Plus organic food is increasing in popularity as well. Food may be surging in price but at least more individuals are choosing local sources more often than before.
Tips for a Green Thanksgiving
10 Tips for Making Your Home More Energy Efficient
Green Gift Ideas: Beauty Gift Sets
