Eco Friendly Products 101

☮peace☮ asked:


Could anyone please name some brands (and what kind of product they are) and items that are eco-friendly?

SPRING

PauFTW asked:


For one of my classes I’m doing a product study of the Skooperbox, an eco-friendly way to pick up dog poop. http://www.skooperbox.com/ Check out the site and let me know your opinions of it please. I’d also like to get some answers to these questions:

- Each box is about 40 cents. Would you buy it? Why or why not?

- What do you usually use to pick up dog poop?

- What are your thoughts on the Leash Clip?

Thanks in advance. I appreciate any help.
- Plastic bags take 1000+ years to biodegrade. This only takes a few days to… do you, the customer, not care about the environmental advantage?
- Have you heard of any other eco-friendly pooper scoopers? What were they called and what store did you see it?

THADEUS

K.Towers asked:


ECO Friendly property doesn’t cost the earth…………

In fact, quite the reverse. There is a widely held conception that anything green, whilst good for the environment, ultimately costs more in monetary terms. ECO friendly properties are cheaper and quicker to construct, and cheaper to run on a day to day basis.

One of the main factors behind this is build time. Traditional build times are generally between twelve and eighteen months for a decent size three bedroom villa. Using systems such as ICF (Insulating Concrete Form), Thermocellit build blocks or Ytong, reduces the build time to between 60-90 days, dependant on the size of the build. This has numerous environmental benefits. The use of electric, water and even transportation costs and emissions for the builders is significantly reduced, and the end result is much more efficient building than its traditional comparatives.

Originally developed in Canada (where concrete home building is standard) ICF systems have been used successfully around the world for more than 40 years. Tens of thousands of ICF homes have been built in recent years throughout the United States and Canada. They have proven successful in every region and climate, from Orlando to Calgary. ICF systems are accepted by all the major model codes in the U.S. and by the National Building Codes in Canada. Several major European countries are now building with this system on a massive scale. It is recognised in Spain and most of Europe and passes all necessary regulations.

Here are some key ICF Advantages for the Homeowner:

ICF Homes are Sound Dampening

Escape for the noisy outside world - The solid concrete walls of ICF homes greatly reduce outside noise making your home more peaceful and relaxing. ICF homes can reduce unwanted outside noise by up to 87%

ICF Homes are Fire Resistant

Have peace of mind that your home will still be standing even if fire threatens your neighbourhood. ICF homes have a fire rating of up to 4 hours.

ICF Homes are Energy Efficient

Splurge on the finer things in life with the money you’ll be saving each month on your utility bills. Buildings built with ICF exterior walls can require 50% less energy to heat and cool than comparable frame houses. These energy efficiencies also allow economic efficiency by allowing smaller HVAC units to be installed.

ICF Walls are Pest Resistant

Be confident that your home will be protected against termites, roaches and rodents. - Your home’s concrete walls will be impenetrable to pests.

ICF Homes are environmentally Friendly

Be satisfied in the fact that Solid Core ICF homes are built using Inert, Non-toxic concrete that is often manufactured locally. And the fire-resistant insulating foam is CFC free. The Rebar, Webs & Ties, EPS foam & concrete are recyclable. Building a 2,000 sq. ft. ICF home can save up to 47 trees.

ICF Homes are economically Friendly

Get the financial benefits of lower insurance premiums. Insurance companies recognize all the strengths of ICF homes and offer a discount on premium for ICF homes. One ICF homeowner reported a 20% savings on his insurance premiums.

ICF Homes are Draft Free

Enjoy the comfort of a perfect environment - The solid core walls of ICF homes eliminate air infiltration through the wall and virtually eliminate hot and cold spots.

ICF Homes are Allergen Resistant. Get the relief you deserve - Most mould and mildew problems are caused by moisture. A fibre glass insulated wall develops condensation within the wall where warm and cold air meet. The solid core walls of ICF homes eliminate air infiltration so there is no moisture to feed the growth of moulds and bacteria.

ICF Homes are Beautiful

Live in style - while the walls of the home are sturdy concrete, the design can take on any style you desire: Modern, Victorian, Colonial, Adobe.etc etc.

ICF Homes are Affordable

ICF homes are priced very competitively with traditional “stick built” homes. And when you take into account all the additional benefits they have, the true value of ICF homes simply can’t be matched.

Having your own Eco friendly villa built gives a wealth of options to the degree of environmentally friendliness you want. Solar panels, Geo thermal heating, energy efficient and water saving appliances are just a few further ways to go green, saving you money and also doing your bit for the environment at the same time.

For further information visit http://www.1st2spain.com



SAYAAN

Ryan asked:


I’m about to start up a small pet-waste disposal business, and i want to do everything with a twist-make it as eco-friendly as possible.

I know I can make a cheap compost outlined on this site:
http://www.plantea.com/dog-waste-compost.htm

but it says to sprinkle Septic Starter and water to help decompose wastes back into the soil.

Is Septic Starter eco-friendly?

What else could I do besides double-bagging the doodoo and tossing it in a trashcan?

I don’t think every customer would like me digging a hole in their yard for a compost, although that would be ideal! lol.

I also will be providing yard treatment for fleas and ticks, as well as replacing stains, and treating indoor/outdoor furniture, carpeting, hardwood flooring, decks, etc. with all eco-friendly product. Also to include dog-walk/jogging and providing all-natural dog baths with eco-friendly shampoos and conditioners.

Thanks.

ROLANDO

eyal d asked:


We are a new baby/parent related company and our first product is a Diaper Bag.
We are looking for eco-friendly fabrics and we would like it to have the following qualities:

1. durable and have a stiffness to it so it can hold the shape of the bag.

2. light weight

3. easy to clean

4. available in a wide range of colors.

5.be as environmentally friendly as possible (no pvc and stuff)

currently we are using the standard 600D nylon/polyester pu coated fabrics.

Although they do the job we really do not like them. They are cheep and synthetic looking. They are not pleasant to touch and the variety of colors, although large is very basic - red is red, blue is blue etc. they have no depth to them.
Can anyone recommend on a specific company ? fabric ? where to search depending on the qualities that we need ?Thank you

YUL

Lester Emanuel asked:


Overview

This stunning ECO-FRIENDLY property would not normally be found on the island, the developer takes a very keen interest in sustainable construction which he is promoting here in Tenerife and the design is therefore very futuristic but also charming. It has a very Scandinavian feel with a wealth of timber used in the construction.

The property itself is a magnificent piece of contemporary design and construction with its unusual shape and the use of laminated timber beams which enabled the formation of large spaces and panoramic balconies with decked terraces.

No expense has been spared in the development of this 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom Villa with an infinity pool. Imagine being in the pool and looking over the edge down towards the sea and across to the Island of Gomera. The views from this property are amazing, 180 degrees looking over the coast from Marzul through San Juan, Alcala, Playa Arena and on through to the mountains with views of Mount Teide.

The Villa has been constructed to a standard far in excess of the current and future building standards on the Canary Islands with great attention to detail and high standards of workmanship.

For Golfers, the new Abama 18 hole golf course is just down the hill and the renowned Adeje 27 hole golf course is only a short drive away. There is also a new golf course planned at Hoya Grande.

This dream villa would make a delightful residence or holiday home and with excellent letting potential as one of the most luxurious Villas on the Island it is an opportunity not to be missed.

The Accommodation

The Villa sits on a plot of 840 square metres on the edge of a hill village and boasts a 48 cubic metre heated swimming pool and double garage.

Outside there are a number of planters constructed around the terrace, with blue ceramic copings containing mature plants and trees.

Ground Floor:

The covered double glazed entrance doors lead into the entrance hall. The whole ground floor, staircase and both bathrooms are finished in extremely high quality large porcelain tiles.

The staircase is finished with highly polished stainless steel handrails and balustrades. There is also under stair storage.

The large entrance hall (which also leads to the rear door, pool and terrace) features exposed timber beams and central pillar.

There is a large Utility/laundry room containing kitchen cupboards, worktop, washing machine, and solar hot water cylinder.

The Guest suite has an on-suite bathroom and double glazed patio doors leading to the terrace and pool.

The fourth bedroom has double-glazed patio doors leading to the terrace.

There is an additional bathroom for bedroom four and as changing room for pool guests.

There is even an outside kitchen behind louvered doors for the terrace and the pool with kitchen units, worktop sink and drinks fridge, ideal for BBQ’s

First Floor:

The staircase leads from the main entrance hall to a large open plan with high ceilings and large picture windows, patio doors leading to a 44 sq.m. decked terrace with highly polished stainless steel handrail & balustrades. The decked terrace is the perfect place to admire the 180-degree views.

In the lounge one wall is dedicated as an entertainment wall with a 42 inch flat screen TV above an electric fire that also looks like a flat screen TV all built into a fireplace that houses all your entertainment facilities i.e. DVD, Sky box and your music centre.

The open plan custom kitchen is made from solid Birch with black granite worktops. Top quality appliances include a freestanding island with ceramic hob, double oven and stainless steel extraction unit. There is also an integrated fridge, freezer and dishwasher.

The master bedroom suite has an en-suite bathroom containing hydro massage bath, separate shower cubical, toilet, bidet and wall hung basin. The floor and walls are finished in large high quality porcelain tiles.

The second bedroom also has an on-suite bathroom with high quality porcelain tiles.

There is also a separate guest toilet.

Other than the two on-suite bathrooms the first floor is finished in solid hardwood parquet flooring in Birch.

Other Features:

The construction incorporates very high levels of insulation, both thermal and acoustic. This ensures the Villa stays cooler on the inside on the warmest days and warmer on the inside on cooler days.

All windows and doors are a new stainless steel aluminium finish with double glazing using blue safety glass.

The Villa comes complete with all internal and external light fittings and two automatic irrigation systems in the gardens.

Other features include automatic lighting control, intercom entry phones to floors, automatic electric garage gates, solar panels for hot water heating, heat pump for the swimming pool and an abundance of electrical outlets.

This property is being marketed by Expedia Property SL in Tenerife. To see photographs of this amazing house please visit the property webpage.



MAVIS

ren_faery asked:


I really want to raise my baby vegan, but I’m having a lot of trouble finding out wether companies test on animals or not, and there doesn’t seem to be a wide variety of affordable companies to choose from. Can anyone tell me what baby products are cruelty free and environmentally friendly??

SHOSHANA

DancenDiva asked:


Are all aveda products eco friendly? I read at care2 that there mascara is good but what about there skincare and hair products? Do they have lots of chemicals? Or is it all plant based? If you can could you please write in your answer the ingredients of some of there products. I’m interested in the hair detoxifier, smooth infusion style prep smoother, mascara and acne skin care. Also let me know what you think of there products.

Thank you!!!

LOVETTE

Bethany asked:


The major complaint by environmentalists is that businesses emit massive amounts of pollution through the elimination of waste, pollution from production itself, and the vehicles they use to transport their products. Sure the government could place restrictions on emission levels, but how would they prevent the economic loss that would cause when the companies can no longer produce as they have been? Please someone lend an idea. Thanks!

KORTNIE

Phil Pendleton asked:


We’re currently living in a day and age where the ecology of our planet is becoming a very important issue in everyday life. The way we use and re-use our resources as well as how we manage our homes and lives in green culture provides us an opportunity to make choices in helping to promote a cleaner healthier planet. Part of those choices stem from using more energy efficient light bulbs. Recycling our plastics and paper. Even making choices about the furniture we purchase. In this article we’ll take a look at some things we can do to recycle and re-use our older furniture as well as some tips on eco-friendly furniture products.

When purchasing new furniture or beds we often need to think about the furniture being replaced as part of the circle in promoting good ecological habits. There are several options that we can use to recycle or re-use your old furniture.

1.) Consider donating your furniture. Businesses like the Salvation Army or Goodwill Industries puts your older furniture back into circulation for others to use. The proceeds they generate from your furniture in turn helps to provide jobs and allows your furniture to find new life with a new family.

2.) Recycle your furniture. Wood furniture “can” be recycled at your local recycling center. There are also many local authorities who can assist in helping you to safely dispose of your furniture for recycling.

3.) Offer it to your family or friends. Your older furniture may be in tip top shape and if that’s the case you may still have sentimental feelings towards it and want to keep it in the family. If that is the case you can offer it to those you know who may have a need for the furniture.

4.) Try selling it. Many times your furniture may hold good resale value if it is a name brand or high-end piece of furniture. If that is the case why not sell it in a local newspaper ad or try selling it through online auctions like ebay or other online marketplaces.

Many of the options above give the added benefit of the furniture being safely and responsibly recycled or re-used which is an important step before shopping for new furniture and creating good eco-friendly habits. We need to avoid having older furniture added to landfills and we should make every effort to find a safe means of recycling our older furniture. After you’ve made arrangements to have your older furniture recycled or re-used you’ll want to start looking at some alternatives available in eco-friendly materials for furniture. There are many options available in furniture but one such material is becoming quite popular in green furniture. It’s called bamboo.

Bamboo is an interesting ecological friendly choice for a wide variety of products. What makes this product considered a green choice in furniture though is the process through which it is harvested and replanted. Many believe bamboo is a type of wood but it actually is classified as a grass. From the time it is seeded to the time it reaches maturity for harvesting is approximately 5-7 years. The stalk of the bamboo hardens and becomes tighter (harder than maple wood) which is then harvested and processed into a variety of products including boards which can be used for building and construction. It can be reseeded once harvested in as little as three months and because bamboo grows so quickly often reaching heights of 70 feet tall, this replenishment is quick with little to no impact on the environment.

Many domestic hardwoods like oak or ash do make great choices for furniture. In this modern age of resource conscious ecological living though many of us recognize that once an oak or ash tree is harvested it takes almost 40-45 years for a new one to be planted and grown to maturity. Many lumber companies do act responsibly with their cutting and harvesting of those trees but the maturity. However, if alternatives exist (like bamboo) and can be used in certain types of furniture in place of other woods then we should consider those resources ahead of others. Bamboo beds, nightstands, dressers and bookcases are just some of the many pieces of furniture made from this plant. The bamboo plant is even used in making fabric which is used in many types of mattress coverings.

In this article we looked at the two aspects of purchasing new furniture. We examined the responsibilities of what we should do with the older furniture. In the way of donating it, recycling it, giving it away or selling it. Doing these things allows our older furniture to be recycled and re-used creating a positive environmental impact. When getting ready to find new furniture we explored alternatives to domestic woods in the way of bamboo. Bamboo is fast growing, can be reseeded in less than three months after harvesting and provides material even harder than maple. Bamboo is a positive resource for eco-friendly furniture and if it is an available option should be considered ahead of other products. These suggested practices are not only good for you and others but for our environment as well.



MCKENZIE