These are a few of my favourite things... Gina's Christmas gift guide
Christmas is a very special time for me. I think the excitement is palpable around the city and the serenity of the countryside it somehow more revitalizing at this time of year. For me it doesn't matter if I am in cold London or sunny Perth, I love the whirlwind that surrounds us be it in frost or sunshine.
What I don't claim to love is the tacky side of Christmas, with cheap toys and gimmicky gifts that will entertain for a day, perhaps a month at best and then find their way to landfill, to later pollute our waterways as the toxic components of the item begin to leach under the hot January sun.
That said, I am not opposed to gifts, I think they are wonderful, or at least they CAN be wonderful. In my opinion, if you are making the effort to give a gift, no matter the cost, make it thoughtful, appropriate and try to ensure that it is something that will add to the receiver's quality of life. So what is considered a good gift?
In my mind there are hundreds of good gifts here are a few of my personal favourites;
1) A donation to a charity in the persons name is very special. If you can find a charity that suits the likes and character of the receiver, all the better. When our daughter was born, some very close friends gave us an 'organic vegetable farm and training' for a community in India. We thought this was such a beautiful notion, that we later asked that donations like this be given in lieu of presents at her Christening. I also feel that this kind of gift is perfect for those who are not happy with anything you give them. You know the type, every family has someone who manages to complain, or just act bored, no matter how many hours of thought you have put into the gift. It is as simple as getting online and donating. You will usually get sent a card to give, with details of the gift.
2) Services and memberships are also a personal favourite for me, because they usually inspire people to do something nice, be it a massage voucher or an annual membership to the zoo. There is no material gift as such and it can really be the gift that keeps giving, as if well choosen, your friend will still be attending the zoo or taking art class for the next 12 months.
3) Queen B candles (www.queenb.com.au) It is fair to say that I am a little in love with these magnificent beeswax creations. They are carbon neutral, purify the air, smell like honeycomb and look incredible. When I am finding the world a little too much, I light one of these, sit with a good cup of tea and do nothing (which is actually harder than you may think!). You must experience these candles to see how truly beautiful they are. Words really can't explain it. They are beautifully presented and make a magnificent gift for anyone who needs to unwind.
The staple-less stapler
4) Stocking Fillers and Kris Kringle I am a huge fan of Kris Kringle, but not if it means buying cheap, nasty items. Check out the websites on our directory that offer great little gifts that are perfect for this. I LOVE burts bees super shiny lip glosses and have a staple-less stapler from biome (www.biome.com.au) on my wish list! How cool, a stapler that really does not need staples. I just haven't been able to justify it just yet given I still have staples from 1999 in my office!
5) Gifts made from recycled materials are perfect, and are truly an example of things being sweeter the second time around!Try www.ecodepot.com.au
6) Organic goodies of all kinds always make me smile. I love organic sleepwear from misoh (www.misoh.com.au) and find the 'calm' organic perfume from Miessence (www.organics4ever.com), to be completely divine!
6) Finally the best gift for me is time spent with family and friends. I love baking in the kitchen to Christmas carols with my daughter, sitting back with a cup of tea or wine with friends or playing cards with my siblings. So grab any moment this festive season and make it count.
When we purchase a gift we often give little thought to the environmental footprint it carries and perhaps even less to where its final resting place may be. Yes that floating stubby holder seemed the perfect gift for Dad at the time, but weeks later, after the excitement of being able to keep your drink cool while lounging in the pool wears off, this gift along with millions of others is likely to spend a long and toxic afterlife in one of our burgeoning landfill sites.
The act of giving can create great joy for both the giver and receiver, but in an age where every action must be considered with reference to its environmental impact; the way we give and receive is in dire need of an eco-makeover.
Before you scream with indignation, that this ‘green revolution’ has been seeping slyly into every aspect of every day life and that gifts should be sacrosanct from green do-gooders, consider this: According to the Australian Conservation Foundation study ‘The Hidden Cost of Christmas’ in the 2004 Christmas period, Australians spent $1500 million on household appliances which produced approximately 780 000 tonnes of greenhouse gases even before they were plugged in. That is the equivalent of putting 156 000 extra cars on the road for a year.
The good news? Green gifts are just about the sexiest thing around town these days, and there are plenty of options, that the planet and its people, will just love.
Here are my top tips for green giving (and receiving);
ASK for LESS
Having a special occasion party and already have everything you need?Fear that four toasters, two kettles and four knife sets won’t add to your minimalist kitchen? Consider suggesting that guests may like to donate to a charity of their choice in lieu of gifts. This can be tactfully worded on the invite so those individuals who have something special in mind for you can still be humoured.
Give a GIFT THAT GIVES
If goats for a village in Nepal, organic farming lessons for a community in India or school supplies for children in Cambodia sounds like your thing, visit www.usefulgifts.organd check out ‘Arguably, the World's Most Useful Gift Catalogue’ You can purchase all number of great things and gifts start at only $5 and come with a beautiful gift card, describing the gift. Membership or donations to environmental, humanitarian and service organizations are also positive presents.
GIVE YOUR GIFTS AWAY
The good etiquette police may not be happy with this, but if you get something you just won’t use, give it away immediately to a charity or op shop that will be able to use it. After all there is nothing more polite than saving the planet.
Love the wrapping?...Then USE IT AGAIN
It is estimated that each year 70,000 ha of native Australian forests are cleared for woodchips used in the production of paper products. Most wrapping paper and cards are made from virgin wood, so re-use them along with ribbons. If you are short on used wrapping paper, try magazines, an organic cotton tea towel, a merino wool scarf or pictures from your children’s colouring books to cover the gift. If you must buy new cards or wrapping opt for 100% recycled, locally produced products.
If friends have a GIFT REGISTRY ask if they mind if you buy an eco-friendly version of the gift they have requested.
Give a LIVE gift – a tree, a certified organic seed or plant is a truly GREEN gift in every sense of the word
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Choose RECYCLED – you can now find everything from clothing to handbags made from recycled materials, great for that special gift with a green edge.
Opt for FAIR Gifts - Giving is about feeling good and helping out, so by choosing gifts that are fairly traded, your gift is also giving back to the producers and their families in developing countries.
MAKE YOUR OWN gifts – beeswax candles, organic cookies and handmade cards all make great gifts and taking time out to craft them yourself could be a gift of relaxation to you.
Consider the Gift of FOOD - organic & local produce and preserves make a healthy hamper. If you can cook make an organic meal for a loved one, if you can’t, consider wholefood cooking classes and go together.
The gift of KNOWLEDGE is always good so try a book on modern green living, if it is truly green it will be printed on 100% recycled paper!
Give the gift of YOUR TIME to a friend or a charity.
Offer the gift of CARBON NEUTRALITY – by paying to offset someone’s carbon emissions.
Avoid the temptation to succumb to market pressure and steer clear of cheap, nasty and largely useless products. Think good quality, locally made gifts that will last generations in minimalist re-used packaging and you are on to a good thing. The sky is the limit when it comes to green gifts, be creative. Give the good gift.
Organised networking can be fantastic of absolutely awful (in my opinion) and for someone who turns down many networking events every month, this one sounded a little fresh and exciting. No membership fees, a good place to have lunch and a green focus. The Green Network is launching with their first lunch on Tuesday the 17th November, but even if you missed the boat... there are many benefits to getting involved in the future. Below is a little info from the Green Network, so you can find out if suits your business.
Corporate Green Army Supporting Great Companies
The Green Network is a group of business professionals that enjoy a joyful networking environment - without membership fees - and that openly support any company that is "environmentally friendly or has enviro friendly products" .
Your mission should you choose to accept is to enrol your corporate community to join the corporate green army at a luncheon once a month and enjoy an active networking environment.
So how does it work?
The Green Network hosts monthly business networking lunches with one purpose in mind to create a business networking environment that doesn‟t have fees and has multiple benefits to the attendees. There are three main sections to type of attendee at these events.
1. The Green Corporate Army This is the corporate attendee that is focussed on their companies community image and have a keen passion to support green companies. This networking lunch is an opportunity to support businesses that are operating within the green community and keep updated with the latest “Green” corporate initiatives hitting the market.
It is also a general forum for business to business networking to enjoy potential synergies and business networking opportunities over a splash of wine and good food. Giving the Corporate Community the opportunity to support the green community...
2. The Green Company Companies within the green community have an opportunity to get their product and services recognised within the corporate and industry sector. Green companies can showcase the latest enviro or “green” product or service and ensure that the community is kept up to date with the latest information on what‟s new in the green community and how this could maximise a company‟s image which can indirectly relate to more customers for them.
3. The Investor Being a wise investor is all about finding the next big thing before the rest of the market catches on, but doing this requires researching and analysing many options. Attending these kinds of networking forums is all about seeing what is the latest in the “Green Market”. The trend in the market is that people in the community want to see products and services that are good for the environment. Therefore by attending as an investor gives you prime position to see what is happening in this market.
If you want more information, contact the team behind the Green Network. W: libertyresources.com.au | T: +618 9388 8869 | F: +6189 388 8862 | E: admin@libertyresources.com.au Unit B2, 431 Roberts Road, Subiaco 6008 | Consider the Environment before printing this page
The Green Network Company Values
Environmental Responsibility We place the highest priority on the protection of the environment to ensure long term sustainability of our Earth.
Integrity We act with honesty and fairness in all we do. We treat and respect all individuals equally despite their background, experiences, styles and ideas.
High Performance We are driven to achieve results and exceed expectations in order to maximise shareholder value. We work together as a team to reach success, and celebrate when we do.
Innovation We strive to „think outside the box,‟ using creative and innovative thinking to find practical ways to solve problems.
Accountability We are committed to taking liability and responsibility for actions taken and to be answerable for resulting consequences.
“At last....a membership package that costs you nothing” By being part of the Green Network, your organisation can play an active role in developing a cleaner greener safer Australia. The Green Network allows all corporate members and partners the chance to promote their product and/or services by allowing them the opportunity to be the guest speaker at one of the Green Network lunches. It costs nothing but your time and a lunch that you were going to have anyway! There are numerous packages available for organisations to get involved with the Green Network. W: libertyresources.com.au | T: +618 9388 8869 | F: +6189 388 8862 | E: admin@libertyresources.com.au Unit B2, 431 Roberts Road, Subiaco 6008 |
Gorillas are on the brink of extinction. They’re calling on YOU to donate your phone today!
You can now help save gorillas in Africa simply by donating your mobile phone! Each time your mobile phone rings, a tiny piece of metallic ore from Africa is making this call possible: coltan. Coltan mining is not only destroying the habitats of endangered gorillas but accelerating their loss at an alarming rate.
The “They’re Calling On You” phone recycling campaign is a broad-reaching, global effort that everyone can participate in. All of the funds raised will go to primate conservation projects, with at least half going to the Jane Goodall Institute Australia for conservation projects in Africa.
By donating your phone through the They’re Calling on You mobile phone recycling program you are:
Keeping its coltan and other valuable or toxic parts out of Australian landfill
Helping Perth Zoo raise money to support primate conservation
Lessening the demand for coltan mining by providing the coltan-coated capacitor in your old mobile phone a second life.
If you are serious about seriously good food, then you will love these upcoming seminars. Many of you would know that I am a HUGE fan of Jude Blereau, Wholefood cookbook author extraordinaire. So get a taste of her at this fabulous event. See below for all the juicy details...
‘Everyday with Wholefood’ is a new seasonal seminar series bought to you by Jude Blereau and Whole Food Cooking to answer the BIG questions: how do I incorporate more whole foods into my everyday cooking; where do I get the ingredients; what can I cook for breakfast, lunch & dinner and all things in between!
During these seminars, you will hear from and meet local growers, producers and retailers. You’ll learn what’s in season, where to get it and how to use it. The Summer ’09 Seminar will focus on Fish (Seasonal, Local, Sustainable and Unfarmed) and Grass Fed Meat, with a focus on easy dishes for outside eating and barbeques. We won’t forget about Christmas either with some delicious and simple suggestions for celebration.
Jude will also discuss how to plan your menu around what’s in season to provide yourself and those you love with wholesome and delicious food - everyday.
Event Program
Guest Speakers
Dr Jeremy Price – Fish for the Future Director, BiosphericsPty Ltd
Edith de Burgh – Grass Fed Meat Farmer, BarambaBiodynamic Beef
To purchase tickets online please go to www.wholefoodcooking.com.au and click on the link to the blog. Updated event and purchase details can be found there.
The ‘Everyday with Wholefood: Seasonal Seminar Series’ is proudly bought to you by Whole Food Cooking, Perth, WA www.wholefoodcooking.com.au
Product Reviews: Burt's Bees goodies for super shiny lips and naturally ageless skin
Reviewing natural products is one of the many great joys of this job and the days that you find something, that you know you will be using for many years to come, is always really exciting. Last week, I had such a moment with Burt's Bees Super Shiny Natural Lip Gloss.
Lip gloss is one of those things that most females (and some males) just love to use. A quick slick of lip gloss seems to make you feel fresh and ready to conquer the world (or the next latte whatever your day may hold!). I often get asked for an alternative to the super glossy offerings from conventional cosmetic companies; Ladies and gentlemen: here is your answer!!
I trialled all three colours in the Mini Lip Gloss Trio and actually loved every one, they seem in a strange way to tone into your lip colour. If I had to choose, 'pucker berry' is my absolute favourite, and will becoming a permanent resident in my handbag. But don't take my word for it, the benefit of the mini gloss trio, is the cost is about the same as a single good quality lip gloss but you get to try all three colours.
Gina's tip: If you want a hint more colour than the gloss provides, these work really well over lipstick too.
Here is what Burt's Bees say about their lip super shiny lip gloss.....
Burt’s Bees Super Shiny Lip Gloss is 100 per cent natural and moisturises lips while providing a brilliant sheer colour gloss. Sunflower oil and sweet almond oil intensely moisturise the lips, leaving them soft, supple and healthy while citrus oils give a fresh, natural flavour. Natural earth pigments such as iron oxide, mica, carmine and titanium dioxide provide colour and a hint of sparkle.
Now you can have three of our favourite shades for just $19.95.
Beat the recession naturally with this great little gift for a friend – or a treat for yourself.
The environmentally-friendly tube contains 26 per cent post-consumer recycled plastic that can be recycled again.
Price: $19.95
The second product I reviewed last week was perfectly timed, I was feeling and looking pretty dull after a nasty bout of gastro knocked the family, when this little parcel of golden oil arrived at my door. I am so glad it did! Being more than a little afraid of needles and just as scared of putting potentially harmful substances into my body, I need all the natural help I can get when it comes to looking young.
I will definitely be adding Burt’s Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive Repairing Serum, to my arsenal. I'm only on day four of using this product, but already my skin feels smoother. I'll get back to you on how I go with the wrinkles!! The thing I love about this Serum is that it is really lightweight and easily absorbed (so it won't stain your bedsheets!), it is 100% natural and smells fabulous.
Here is what Burt's Bees say about this Serum;
Natural beauty is ageless, so keep your true age a secret with the power of pomegranate, featured in Burt’s Bees premium facial care line, Naturally Ageless.
Burt’s Bees Naturally Ageless Intensive Repairing Serum helps smooth the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles around your eyes, mouth and forehead to help address the signs of aging, naturally. 100% natural, this concentrated serum combines the power of antioxidant-rich pomegranate with gentle moisturisers including borage and evening primrose oil.
At $64.95 the price is in line with conventional serums, but you need so very little, so it should last you a long time.
Gina's tip: I use this under my foundation to give my face a 'dewy glow' so to speak. Obviously different foundations may not react so well to this. If you want to try; cleanse as usual, use a tiny amount of oil to cover all areas of the face that need moisture, wait for about 5 minutes and then apply your foundation. If your foundation 'pils' when you do this, the products are not compatible, so stick to using them at different times.
The Burt’s Bees range is available at David Jones, Terry White Chemists and selected retail outlets. For stockist information, phone 1300 855 478 or visit the store locator at www.burtsbees.com.au
What does 'Natural' mean to you, when it comes to personal care?
Like to have your say about what constitutes a natural personal care product?
Burt's Bees (Natural personal care company from the US), have launched an Australian survey, so you can have your say. It is easy to complete and takes around 5 minutes or a little less. You'll find the link on the Burt's Bees home page. http://www.burtsbees.com.au/
Below is a little information from Burt's Bees on the Survey.
Burt’s Bees and Porter Novelli Adelaide have launched an online survey asking Australian consumers about their concerns and attitudes to ‘natural’ ingredients – what ‘natural’ means to them and what matters to them about ‘natural’ ingredients in personal care (meaning products for body, face, hair etc). Burt’s Bees has done a similar survey in the US but as far as we know, no-one’s done one here.
Essentially, we would like to invite you to take a look at the survey and help us encourage people to participate. If you would like to take it further, we are more than happy to set up an interview with Emma Atkinson, the GM of Burt's Bees here in Australia, to discuss in-depth the ideas behind the survey and the ultimate goals for the results.
The survey process itself is only five minutes long and is just a series of simple questions about/around natural ingredients and natural personal care products. We are aiming to gather as much feedback as possible over the next three months, and will be sharing the results with online communities and health and beauty media. Burt's Bees is committed to transparency about 'natural' in the industry, and was instrumental in the creation of a 'natural' standard in the US - now we're aiming high here too! I think that for many people this issue is confusing and frustrating, and I hope that we can achieve greater clarity for everyone interested in natural personal care.
Why are we doing this? Firstly, because we just don’t want to make assumptions about what Australians think and know about ‘natural’ in personal care. Obviously Burt’s Bees is a ‘natural’ focused company but this survey is about understanding what consumers actually want. All sorts of assumptions get made in marketing and both Burt’s Bees and Porter Novelli Adelaide have decided that’s not enough for us. So we’re asking. We’ve decided to approach online communities because we know connecting online is one way consumers can share their unfiltered views and concerns, and that’s what we want to hear. Yes, you will be talking to a PR company and a manufacturer in the industry - because we genuinely want to know what people are thinking.
We will use the results of the survey in the following ways: we will report back to the blogs and site communities that link to the survey on what we find, we will share the results with the health and beauty media in Australia and we will make the results available via the Burt’s Bees website. We hope the results will help address any concerns or confusions about what ‘natural’ means and how it is presented in Australia. (One result of a similar survey in the US was that Burt’s Bees joined together with other major natural personal care companies to develop a national standard for ‘natural’ via the Natural Products Association.)
The results will be available to you to use and we hope the whole process encourages conversation and education about the topic.
The survey is for Australian residents and will run from August 20 until November 14. You can find it here.
As the results of this survey will be featured in the media, this is a great opportunity for CleanLife readers to have their say about what 'Natural' means.
One of the most common questions we get asked at CleanLife is;
'What is your favourite .........?'
In the days when green, natural and organic products were limited in number, it was fairly easy to say which was our favourite nappy, lipstick, sheet set etc. Now however we are blessed to have a bounty of great natural products in Australia, more than the CleanLife team can possibly test individually. So, we have started asking our favourite companies, what their favourite products are and why!
This 'favourite product' entry is from Cassandra, owner and founder of New Age Nappies, an online store that sells a huge range of types and brands of eco nappies and associated items.
www.newagenappies.com.au
Cassandra's favourite product;
IMSE VIMSE All-in-One cloth Nappy
The easiest available Very easy to use, keeping baby dry through the night, quick-drying and works just like a disposable!
-an All-in-One with a modern design - soft and stretchy fabric provides a comfortable fit for baby - signature ImseVimse soft leg-gussets keep everything contained - soft and adjustable hook and loop closure for quick and easy diaper changes - fold-back laundry tabs prevent snags when washing - waterproof, but breathable outer fabric (PUL) is both soft and durable - diaper soaker layers are made with 100% certified organic cotton terry - designed with internal flaps to allow thorough washing and quick drying - flap-style soaker design allows the versatility of either stay-dry micro fleece or certified organic cotton next to babies skin
Gina's comment: while you are checking out www.newagenappies.com.au, check out the Imse Vismse swim nappies; we use them for Lilian and have found them fantastic.
Mini eco; safe, green goods for the next generation
Having a baby is undoubtedly a daunting task. So once you are in the know about what is good (and not so good) for baby and the environment, it can seem as if merely finding the safe and green products you need could take you more than the full 9.5 months of gestation. That is why I love Mini Eco (www.minieco.com.au). You can find everything eco-friendly and safe for babies and children including nappies, bowls, sippy cups, pajamas, clothes, party supplies and a whole lot more. We caught up with founder Catherine Groppoli to find out a little more about her and this wonderful company.
Catherine with two of her three children
Tell us a little about yourself and why you started Mini eco.
I am a lawyer by training and while i enjoyed the job I had in 2007, my employer wanted me to move from 2 days a week to full time. I knew i needed to find a job where i had the flexibility to work my own hours and so setting up my own business seemd to be the answer. I had always had an interest in eco-friendly products for children and so the 2 things collided and mini eco was born.
There is a myriad of ‘safe’, ‘natural’ and ‘eco-friendly’ products entering the market at the moment, how do you choose which products you will stock at Mini eco?
With clothing, I really try to find things that break the stereotypical hippy cliché of organic as being beige or murky, “natural” colours. We always go for fashionable items in gorgeous colours, just like conventional kids clothing. With our BPA free plastics etc, we basically stock everything we can find as the demand for those products is huge!
Many new parents are on a tight budget. For those only able to purchase a few eco friendly baby products, what would you recommend?
I think organic products for sleep are essential – baby spends so much time sleeping! I would recommend organic cotton sheets and wraps and sleepwear as a starting point, as well as organic toiletries. Basically anything next to the skin go organic.
Beautiful girls in the Scout organic clothing range (Gina's note: CleanLife toddler Lilian, loves the Scout range and I love how durable it is and how well it washes!)
You have a huge range of organic baby clothing at Mini eco, do you find customers buy this more for the environmental benefits or the health benefits?
A mixture of both I find.
Have you always been into natural and sustainable living, or was there something that triggered this evolution?
I have been allergic to dairy products all my life, as well as having a gluten intolerance. So I have always been interested in what I put into my body as I know first hand the effects it can have. When I had my kids I was conscious of what they were exposed to chemical wise as well as that was something I had always been interested in. For example, I have always used organic tampons and been wary of sunscreen and other products that are absorbed by the skin.
If you were going away and could take only three products in a nappy bag with you, what would they be?
Disposables – eco friendly, of course. Organic cotton flannels to clean up baby (top and tail) and a BPA free dummy. I know dummies aren’t for everyone but sometimes you just need that extra 10 minutes they can give you.
Most people consider starting and running a small business a difficult undertaking, what keeps you going when things get tough?
The fact that it gives me the flexibility to have time to do things at my children’s schools. I can go to sports days or concerts without having to ask any one for time off. That is very important to me. It’s also great to be able to more easily organise my life generally – how do you get the electrician in when you have to be at the office 5 days a week? When I feel unmotivated or bored with it I always think – well, it’s better than being an employee!
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
Getting the kids off to school without any dramas, a nice big coffee, 20 orders all with no hiccups and a casserole for dinner bubbling away in the slow cooker!
What is your guilty indulgence?
Chocolate, champagne and facials – not together though!
Gina's note: Sometimes Dads can feel a little left out during pregnancy and soon after, so our product pick for them is the Sara Bloom bamboo undies. CleanLife Daddy Tony wears these and they get the big thumbs up for comfort and endurance!
Treasured Earth; skincare for you and the Orangutans!
If you are looking for a natural skincare range with a unique edge, Treasured Earth may be just what you have been waiting for. The products have a unique scent profile, using scents such as hyacinth and honeysuckle combined with gardenia and magnolia. We caught up with Treasured Earth founder and director Cyndi Briggs to find out a little more about the philosophies behind her products, and the products themselves.
Tell us a little about yourself and why you started Treasured Earth.
I’ve always liked to create. My year 12 was specifically in Art & Design and I’m happiest when I’m making something. It’s usually some form of sewing, from dresses to the huge three dimensional tree in my daughters room.
A few years ago I decided that I wanted to learn something during my quiet period over winter, so I started to study aromatherapy. It pretty quickly went off on a tangent when I discovered that I could create my own range of skin care products, so the study got thrown aside for a while, but all of my energy went into creating Treasured Earth instead.
The Treasured Earth range avoids the use of palm oil and its derivatives. Can you tell us more about the ethics behind this?
I have had a long standing love of rainforests since I was pretty young, starting with our yearly visits to my uncle & aunt’s property in the Atherton Tablelands. It was half rainforest, half rolling hills, beautiful rivers, wildlife..... so when I learned about the issues in Asia with clearing their rainforests to make way for more palm plantations, it was an easy decision to try my best to avoid supporting that! I have had it argued to me that it is creating jobs over there, but as we can never get those forests back again, I don’t buy that argument. Not only for the Orangutans, being their natural habitat, but also for the health of the Earth. We’ve all heard by now that the massive clearing, at an alarming rate, of the rainforests in South America is affecting the Earth’s temperatures. I don’t have a lot of knowledge on the subject, but what I did learn was enough to want to make a small difference, starting here.
I then went on to become a supporter of the Australian Rainforest Foundation and am also a member of the Australian Orangutan Project.
Has it been difficult to avoid palm oil in your products?
Sometimes I think it’s nearly impossible, as everywhere you turn it is being used. It is very widely used in food also, as it is cheap and readily available. As far as skincare goes, the commonly used emulsifying system is derived from palm oil. We decided to use another one that is olive derived.
Natural soaps commonly use palm oil, as it makes a nice hard bar of soap. When we were making soaps (we have now swapped over to a body wash), we avoided using palm oil in them and replaced it with other oils. When we come across an ingredient that we want to use that is a palm oil derivative, we do everything we can to find an alternative. We’re trying our best!
The range of pure essential oils in your products is not only incredibly indulgent, but also very unique. Where there any specific reasons for your choice?
I wanted to develop a completely natural range of products, but they had to have an exciting difference to them. I didn’t want to reinvent the wheel again with the usual essential oils. With the oils that were chosen, I had never heard of some of them at all (like hay and mango ginger for example) and other oils like honeysuckle, were always a synthetic version. When I came across the real thing, I was so excited. This became our unique selling point. Of course, we still use some of the more recognisable oils that have their own therapeutic properties, but we’ve just given it an exotic twist.
The Treasured Earth range is certified vegan. Why did you decide to walk this path?
I’m not vegan myself, although I became vegetarian a few years ago. When we were developing our formulations, they were mostly free of animal products anyway, so we just cut out things like beeswax and went the vegan option. To have the range certified is a guarantee to all of my customers – vegan or not, it doesn’t matter - that there are absolutely no animal products included. Even the sugar in our new body scrub is certified organic, as after a bit of research I discovered that this is apparently the only type of sugar that is not filtered through ‘bone char’.
Have you always been into natural and sustainable living, or was there something that triggered this evolution?
I grew up in the usual kind of household that didn’t think much about what we were consuming, I’m not sure if many people did then and if so they were ‘radical hippies’ (I love those!) Organic stuff wasn’t really around much in shops then as it is now, well not that I ever knew of anyway. A friend of mine triggered it off by nagging me to get out of bed way too early for a Saturday and go off to the farmers market. That kind of started the chemical free thing for me, I then went vegetarian after that, for health, ethical & environmental reasons. We watch our water and power usage here, but I still get into trouble from my husband for leaving too many lights on!
If you were going away and could take only three products with you, what would they be?
I would take the Body Wash, as I could probably also wash my hair with it and it’s a great smell to wake up to. Absolutely the Cleansing Milk, one of my favourite products. A moisturiser is a must, especially for me as I have dehydrated skin. I would have to choose between the Moisture Cream that smells divine, or the Night Cream for extra nourishment. Also loving the new serum, that will be out before the end of the year. It’s a bit hard to pick just three!
If people want to get started on using natural skincare products, what items should they start with?
Start with the ‘basics’, being the products that you use every day. A cleanser & moisturiser, no matter what skin type you are. From there, try out a treatment product, like a night cream, an eye cream or a face scrub. That would be a pretty good start, to get a general idea of how it will work for you.
Most people consider starting and running a small business a difficult undertaking, what keeps you going when things get tough?
Never lose the vision. That’s easy to say and pretty hard to do sometimes, especially when it seems like you are going nowhere. You just have to remind yourself of how far you have come. Just keep plugging away bit by bit. Giving up is never an option! I can keep going because I really believe in the quality of the products, the uniqueness of them and what the brand stands for.
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
A nice hot day, cool tunes playing in the background, a glass of wine and just generally lounging around doing nothing. Preferably out in the open somewhere amongst some trees, but the backyard will do if I can’t go away. It has to be a hot day though to be perfect!
What is your guilty indulgence?
As above, but I don’t feel guilty when I’m relaxing!
If you thought reusable nappies were a thing of the past, you have something exciting to learn. If you are a dedicated user, then you have some new friends to meet! It is reusable nappy week and their are events happening all over the country, so get you nappies on (your little ones that is) and check the ongoings out on the link below.
SIGG Bottles, not as safe as we have been lead to believe?
SIGG Replacement Bottles - Update
Thanks to a CleanLife reader and one of CleanLife's favourite companies, BIOME (www.biome.com.au) we have discovered a little more about the SIGG saga detailed below.
The really good news is that SIGG are offering to replace your bottles with their new BPA free version. You need only return your bottles by mail, free post and notify them of which bottle you would like for a replacement. Full details are below in an email sent to one of our CleanLife readers from the Australian SIGG distributor;
"Our company is distributing SIGG in Australia.
First of all we would like to take the opportunity to thank you for your loyalty and trust towards our products.
After headlines dominating some internet blogs over the past few days about “SIGG and BPA” we would like to clarify the situation with some firsthand information based on facts.
The former SIGG liner (applied until July/August 2008) did undergo regular tests, which were carried out under the watchful eyes of highly regarded, independent laboratories in Europe and the U.S.A. (to view the tests please log on to http://www.siggaustralia.com.au )
All of the test results show: No leaching of BPA! in the former SIGG liner. (BPA information for Australia and New Zealand are published under http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/consumers/c...isphenol-a.htmhttp://www.foodstandards.gov.au/news...ndfood4218.cfm )
Based on these facts, we are confident, that the former SIGG liner is safe!
However, if you feel in any way uncomfortable with your SIGG bottles that still have the former SIGG liner, SIGG offers you to swap it for a new bottle with the new “EcoCare-Liner”, introduced in Summer 2008.
The new SIGG “EcoCare-Liner” is a powder-based, co-polyester that has been thoroughly tested and certified not only to be 100% BPA-free and as well free of phthalates, BADGE, BFDGE & NOGE.
Just log on to http://www.siggaustralia.com.au choose your favourite design, write the SIGG-Code on a piece of paper with your address details and send your old liner bottle to the address below:
SIGG Exchange Reply Paid: 86193 Werribee VIC 3030
All costs involved of handling/ postage goes on us.
We hope that you will continue to have confidence in the quality and safety of SIGG products. If you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact us"
The other good news your retailer should also be able to issue a replacement free of charge, if you would like to deal in person. Additionally although it may not give you complete peace of mind, despite the epoxy resin previously used containing BPA, there has not been any evidence at this stage to suggest that it has leached into water contained in the bottles.
To find out a whole lot more about this story and to help you make your decision about your next reusable water bottle purchase, check out the 'accidental greenie' blog from BIOME founder Tracey Bailey. It is very open and honest about the whole saga.
http://accidental-greenie.blogspot.com/search/label/SIGG
For those of you looking for an alternative brand / type of drinking flask, a safe option is usually pure stainless steel. These are becoming readily available, but ensure you are not being exposed to nickel and other contaminants by choosing 18/10 or surgical grade stainless steel items. As Tracey rightly points out their are many cheap versions that are likely to be bulk manufactured and not the highest in quality.
Happy water guzzling
Gina
Previous blog on this topic.......................on 12/10/09
I am so sick and tired of companies telling blatant lies!!
The latest in this list of unethical companies is SIGG! Yes I was shocked too. These guys sell re-usable bottles that we greenies like to drink from so we avoid plastic and the potential BPA and other nasties that they can contain. There was murmurs some time ago that the epoxy resin used to line SIGGs bottles may leach a number of toxic compounds, however an 'independent' report was swiftly released (now I am wondering just how independent it really was), showing that their was no leaching of BPA into the contents (water) in bottles. The bottles were said to be BPA free! While it may (or may not) be true that the lining does not leach, the bottles (we now find out, thanks to the environmental working group) were made of BPA based epoxy resin as the lining, up until mid 2008, so many of us (including me) may still be using bottles containing BPA. The bottles are no longer lined with BPA epoxy resin, but they still do use a lining, and at this stage they won't reveal the contents of this lining.
In the US you can get a replacement, new bottle (if you want one!) from SIGG retailers, I am not sure of the situation in Australia, so you may need to contact the shop you purchased from.
Patagonia, who is in the green retail world, a GIANT, is now refusing to sell the bottles, so hopefully SIGG will suffer from this.
To any CleanLife readers who have been using these bottles, we are very sorry, we have been too!
Some time ago, I had a thought that perhaps for people who didn't have enough space to grow fruit and veg in their back yards, the verge might be a good idea? I had visions of neighbourhoods sharing their veg, having street parties with goodies made from the fruits of their labour, cook offs and bottling jam. To me it seemed like a wonderful 'fix' to many of the modern problems we face; poor eating habits, poor quality fruit and veg, and poor community contact for many of us, who sink into the isolation of our homes, and end up watching a 'cooking show' on the tele while eating, well in the words of comedian Dylan Moran 'a bag of bread and anything you can spread on it'.
What I wasn't thinking of, during this epiphany of sorts, was what our councils spray in and around our front yards, in the aim of 'weed control'. So I was horrified when one of our readers pointed our a fairly major problem with my plan in an email to us (see below).
" I can advise of one major problem with this idea and that is Councils and their chemical overkill for weed control ! Most people are totally unaware of the spraying that goes on right outside our own homes by Council. All roadside kerbs, footpaths, median strips, etc. are routinely sprayed for weed control several times per year. That would be a lovely toxic chemical bath for the "organic" vegetable verge."
In a later email, the same CleanLife reader let us know that:
"3,300 residents of the City of Stirling have recently lodged a petition with their council opposing the use of herbicide spraying on all footpaths, roadside kerbing, median strips, drainage sumps and children's playgrounds and are currently lobbying for the immediate introduction of hydrothermal (hot water weeding) methods for weed control of those areas, as currently practiced in the City of Fremantle."
So my question is? What is your council doing? We would love to know and I guess you probably would too? Please feel free to blog or email us with any updates you have.
I have contacted my council on three occasions now, each time told that someone will return my call. Nobody has at this stage, but I will keep you posted.
We often get asked for advice on Natural ideas for menopause and mentrual issues. As this is far beyond my realm of expertise, I am very happy to recommend Wendy Dumaresq, the director of the Natural Women Network and Rad Pads, who has a wealth of expertise in the area. She has just released a new edition of her book "Radiant Women". It is an invaluable tool for learning more about your own cycle (or apparent lack of one for that matter) or for the many challenging issues of menopause (no tweezers, magnifiying mirror and cold towels are not included!). Below I have included the introduction to the book, to give you more of an idea. You can purchase the books online at www.naturalwomannetwork.com.au
The Introduction of 'Raditant Women' By Wendy Dumaresq
Radiant Women is a practical and empowering book to help take you through some methods of becoming more familiar with issues around menstruation and menopause and help you on your journey to experiencing your menstrual and menopausal years in the most positive and enjoyable ways.
Why have a book like this? Radiant Women is not designed as a technical reference, but a user friendly and enlightening tool for women who wish to take charge of their own health and wellbeing. The philosophy of the Natural Woman Network (NWN) is to encourage and empower women and their families to take charge of their health and wellbeing and so contribute to better health for this generation and generations to come.
As a qualified and experienced Medical Herbalist and Natural Fertility Management Counsellor I consult with women of all ages, as well as couples and other family members. I adopt the same philosophy in my clinical practice and find that it is very empowering for women to take an active part in their healing rather than have someone else do all the ‘fixing!’ At least half of my work involves assisting women with menstrual and/or menopausal concerns, the rest of my work involves natural contraception, natural conception, pre-conception care and fertility concerns as well as general health concerns of individuals as well as whole families.
Something which has become very clear to me is that many women do not generally feel they have enough information about menstrual and menopausal issues. Often many women who would prefer to explore natural methods to assist their general health as well as their hormonal health are often not encouraged to seek the assistance of a natural medicine practitioner – indeed some are even castigated if they do! However, it seems that this attitude is slowly changing. I often have women referred to me from other health practitioners, including general and specialist medical practitioners and am always ready to refer to other practitioners where appropriate.
This book aims to give women relevant and appropriate information about their female health concerns and some information and tips on starting to take their health power back into their own hands.
Many women ask me “...is this ‘normal’ to experience...” and “...what can I do myself to assist my return to wellness...?” These are just some of the many concerns that women have. Radiant Women has also been produced in recognition of the fact that many women do not have easy access to appropriately qualified and experienced practitioners. It is very useful to combine the use of this book with one or more of the wonderful books on menstruation and/or women’s health which are available from NWN (see Resources section), such as:
The Wild Genie A Blessing Not A Curse The Pill: are you sure it’s for you? Natural Fertility Management Natural Fertility Management Kit Moon Diary Wall Chart
This book is not designed to take the place of the care of an appropriate healthprofessional, so if you have concerns please see your practitioner and obtain an opinion from him / her. It is designed as a guide for women to answer some commonly asked questions and to encourage women to take action to do as much as they can to live well – with good health and enjoyment.
Please feel free to contact Wendy at the naturalwomannetwork.com.au with your feedback and queries. After all, YOU are the people NWN was developed for and wants to assist.
Every now and then you have an experience that is just magical. For me visiting the home of Juliet Bateman and David Schober, halfway between the southwest towns of Albany and Denmark, was one of those special moments.
Funnily enough Tony and I knew Juliet, well before any of us were in the Organics industry. In fact we met because of our common occupations, as Physiotherapists. Years had passed without us seeing one another and then at the WA Food Industry Awards, we met again. Juliet gave us some of her cheese and I have to say, I have never been satisfied with anything else since that day. The company is Over the Moon Organics and let me tell you the name is apt.
After visiting The Over the Moon, farm, milking station and cheese factory, I can see why this is simply the best cheese you will ever taste. Every single component of this operation has been thoroughly researched and planned. There is no short cuts and certainly no cost cuts. What there is a huge amount of is LOVE, for cows, for family and of course, for cheese.
Over the Moon are one of only four cheesmakers in Australia that keep and milk their own herd exclusively for the purpose of making there cheeses. The paddock is only metres away from the milking station (there probably is a more technical term for this!!) and the cheese factory is in the same building, so the milk goes straight from the cow, into the factory, and so the process starts.
But the passion for cheese and cows goes further still. Most cheeses these days seem to be made from any old milk, usually from the cheapest and most productive cows. This isn't always optimal, for many reasons. Different fat and protein contents make certain cows preferable for producing hard cheese and others for soft cheeses.
Juliet and David, decided they wanted to use only the milk that was optimal to produce the best possible cheese. So their hard cheese are made from the milk from Swiss browns, and the soft cheeses from the Jersey cows. All is takes to understand this is to taste the triple Brie. I have been known to finsish a block myself!
Juliet Bateman
It is so wonderful to see a company that has taken every possible avenue to ensure the best tasting cheese but also the best animal welfare and environmental standards. Let me tell you these organic cows seemed pretty happy with their lot and I was absoltutely 'over the moon' while eating far too much of their organic cheese!
Palm oil is apparently the world's second largest oil crop and thus can be found in everything from food and skincare products to industrial items.
According to the the Palm Oil Action group Australian's eat around 10kg of palm oil per capita per year. YUK!
Unfortunatley this ubiquitous substance has extensive environmental impacts including potential destruction of organutan habitat and is a major contributor to gloabal warming. This is dut o the clearing of rainforests that occurs to allow palm plantations to be established. As the rainforests dry out, they release, peat filled soils release large amounts of methane, a greenhouse gas 23 times more potent than carbon dioxide.
You can find out a whole lot more about palm oil about at www.palmoilaction.org.au but in the meantime you can avoid it (in food a least) by saying no to the following foods which declared in 2007, that their product includes palm oil (despite unclear labelling in some cases).
* oreos * pringles * ritz crackers * sara lee danishes * kit kats * LCMs * Tim Tams * Arnotts shapes * Maggi 2 minute noodles * Country cup asian soup in a cup
And if giving up Tim Tams is too much to bear, may I recommend you try RAW CHOCOLATE!
This is a relatively recent find for me, made with pure raw cacao, cacao butter and agave syrup, this is a truly decadent super food. If you are in Perth, hunt down the locally made Roar Vanilla chocolate. Worth every cent!! If you can't find that try Loving Earth. Both have great websites with heaps of info too. Happy chocolate munching!
If you are looking for personal care products that are free from palm oil, visit the girls who are passionate about it in Perth, at B Kind Beauty Bar in Subiaco. http://www.bkind.com.au/ The lovely team at B Kind have decided to ensure any new products coming into the store are palm oil free. The have a great deal of knowledge about natural skincare and makeup and a wonderful range.
Up Your Jumper: a sustainable study tour around Australia
Some months ago, I had the pleasure of meeting Tim Denshire-Key, a student who in my mind, was engaging in potentially the most fun and interesting of uni units. I was interviewed by Tim about the contribution of CleanLife and the CleanLife blog to helping people to make the transition to a greener lifestyle. The interview gave us our debut on you tube (something we had been avoiding for some time!) and is also featured on his blog.
Tim has travelled oz " looking at projects relating to sustainable design and living, renewable energy and water". The blog is named 'up your jumper' and is well worth checking out.
For an audio transcript of the whole interview with CleanLife you can visit the link below. But be warned the interview was in a very busy cafe, so the sound is a little sketchy in parts!
CHEMICAL FREE BY CHOICE The Green Gurus & The Additive Queen Join Forces
Join The Miessence Organic Team and Julie Eady as they share their knowledge and experience of the food and beauty industries to make you an informed consumer and improve the health and well being of your family.
Julie Eady was a young mother in Perth’s suburbs when the birth of her first child seven years ago prompted her to have a better look at what her baby was actually consuming.
She deciphered all the little numbers listed on the ingredients list of a wide range of processed foods and discovered that many of the additives – designed to enhance food’s flavour, colour or texture – were either banned or restricted in other countries.
She says some of the additives have even been linked to behavioural problems in children, allergic reactions and even cancer.
Additive Alert, Your Guide to Safer Shopping was published in 2004, and sold over 25,000 copies in its first year, confirming the demand by consumers for factual information about our food. It is one of the best selling references available on food additives in Australia, and has become a household shopping “bible” for thousands of consumers around the country.
Miessence is the world's first certified organic skin care and personal care range. The team from Miessence are passionate educators and activist for social and consumer change, speaking to families, entrepreneurs and cosmetic industry professionals.
The Miessence Organic team are passionate about empowering and educating consumers on how to avoid harmful chemicals in their products. “Misleading labels and clever marketing gimmicks relating to organic content can often mask the use of potentially toxic ingredients” they say, “which seriously undermines the integrity of the organic claim.”.
This exciting and informative public seminar is not to be missed and bookings are essential.
Details of the seminar : Thursday 23rd July between 7 and 9pm Centrepoint Church Auditorium, Cockburn Commercial Park, 8/24 Discovery Drive, Bibra Lake. Cost $10
Please ensure that you book early to secure your seat and receive further details
Organic cotton; the best way to 'treat' your little ones
Natural Origins for our little people
If you thought organic cotton products were all beige and daggy looking then look no further than Natural Origins (www.naturalorigins.com.au) for view changing selection of organic products. Thanks to Crecy and Jeremy, Natural Origins makes available to both individuals and retail outlets a range of organic cotton products including the beautiful range of Ellaroo baby carriers and slings, the Kanoe motion sensitive baby hammocks and the delightful Scout Baby range of kids clothing. I'm currently trialling the Mei Tai baby carrier (in the stunning Hershey design) and LOVING it!
We caught up with the Natural Origins team to find out a little about the ethics behind their company, the products and what drives them; we also ended up finding out a lot more about the benefits of eco dyes, baby carrying and the joy sunny Australia. So sit back with a fair trade, organic cuppa and be inspired, this is a good one!
Ellaroo Ring Sling
What inspired you to bring Natural Origins to Australia?
After careers in IT and film location management, we both felt we wanted to be involved in a business that focused on environmental sustainability. Just at the right time we were reconnected with family friends, Raja and Susannah Ramji, who had been building a very successful business in the USA sourcing organic cotton fabric and managing the process of product manufacture for several large and boutique brand names.The Ramjis had just started a project with a small Boston-based family business that had designed a really beautiful range of organic cotton-based children’s furniture. As soon as we saw the products, we were hooked.They were really unusual, totally sustainable and poles apart from a lot of the plastic, and often toxic, stuff which is swiftly discarded and ends up in landfill. The furniture was called Nest, and we became their Asia Pacific distributors.Since then, we have been gradually building a portfolio of really good quality organic cotton products focused mainly on the mother and baby market.
What are your three favourite items from the Natural Origins range and why?
It’s quite difficult to pick any three favourite products because one of the important criteria for sourcing the products is that they are the kind of things we would want to buy. However, if we had to chose, it would probably be the Ellaroo Ring Sling because it is so versatile and stylish, the Kanoe baby hammock because of its clever, simple and elegant design, and the Scout range of clothing because it is such fun for children to wear and so easy for parents to look after!
Kanoe Baby Hammock
For those who aren’t versed in the benefits of organic cotton, why should they choose it in preference to conventionally grown cotton products?
There are two reasons why you should choose something made from organic cotton rather than from conventionally grown cotton – the health of the planet and the health of the person wearing that cotton product. Let me explain.
People often buy a t-shirt or dress made from cotton because it is hailed as a natural fibre so the assumption is that is that it will be better or healthier than a man made fabric.What the cotton industry doesn’t tell us is that conventionally grown cotton (which is nearly all of it!) is one of the most toxic crops in the world. 25% of the world’s pesticides and 10% of the world’s synthetic fertilisers are used to grow cotton which covers less than 3% of the world’s farmland. 150 grams of pesticides and synthetic fertilisers are needed to produce enough cotton for just one t-shirt. Defoliants, fungicides and herbicides are also used in large quantities. Most of
these chemicals are classed by the World Health Organisation as moderately
hazardous or highly hazardous because they can lead to cancer, birth defects
and nervous system disorders. Moreover, these toxic chemical have a highly detrimental impact on the land, the waterways and on the health of the workers who produce the cotton and this prolific and ever increasing use of chemicals goes hand in hand with a huge demand for water, often in areas where water is in short supply.
By contrast, organic cotton is grown with no harmful chemicals, the plant uses little water and what water is used is recyclable. Because the ground is not poisoned, food crops can be grown to feed the villages and to enrich the soil, and bugs are controlled by the introduction of other insects that feed on the ones that attack the cotton.It all makes so much sense!.
The Natural Origins range has a heavy focus on products for babies and toddlers including organic slings, and organic hammock for baby to sleep in and organic baby clothes, is their a reason you have chosen to focus on these products?
Yes, more by accident than design.As we read more about the difference between conventional and organic cotton, we realised just how important the organic cotton industry is, and what better place to start to promote it than in the baby market?As parents, we are very aware of the importance of doing the very best by our children from their earliest moments.Why would you clothe your tiny and vulnerable baby in cotton that had been grown and dyed with toxic chemicals, many of which do not wash out, when there is a pure and gentle alternative?This is particularly relevant for babies and children as they often have allergies which these chemicals can irritate.
For those of us who have used carriers with our babies, the benefits are obvious but for those new to the idea, what are the main advantages of baby wearing?
There is lots of research to show the importance of baby wearing but, even before you look at any of this research, it seems pretty obvious that babies would find great comfort and reassurance in the arms of their parents. Since the earliest moments of consciousness, babies have grown accustomed to the sounds of their mother’s body in particular– the rhythm of her breathing, her voice, her walk - so it stands to reason that this familiarity would be hugely comforting when a baby is confronted by all the challenges of the big, noisy and bright world outside the womb.Closeness to the parent provides physical and verbal reassurance and offers continuity and a safe place from which to explore this new world.It is the one constant in this new awesome adventure.The research I mentioned just now shows that babies that are carried in a sling rather than pushed in a pram, cry less, are more alert, more attentive, smarter, learn quicker, are more confident, have better speech and physical development, and are more humanised because they are so much a part of adult interaction and adult experiences.It is also a wonderful experience for the parent – not only do they have the comforting bonding closeness of their baby, but at the same time they also they have hands free independence to get on with all those everyday tasks that await their attention.In particular, it helps dads to bond with their babies and it makes breast feeding on the go much easier for mums. It also provides mums with a bit of cardiovascular activity and weight training which will help shed those extra kilos gained during pregnancy.It certainly did that for me!
Mei Tai Carrier
The Ellaroo range of baby carriers offer a ring sling, the mei tai and the mei hip.Is there a standout favourite with customers, or do people choose different carriers for different circumstances?
Each carrier is designed to do slightly different things.All parents are different so it is great to be able to offer a choice of carriers.The Ring Sling is a wonderfully comforting way to carry newborns who need to be fed and settled for much of the day (and night!).It is really easy to do this in the Ring Sling because you can move your baby into different positions by just adjusting the fabric through the rings. You don’t have to disturb your baby by taking off the sling. The tail of the fabric provides a discrete cover for breastfeeding, a handy cloth and a source of protection from the sun and cold. (Some parents even use the sling as a hammock or a child restraint or as a cover for a supermarket trolley baby seat!!).The Mei Tai is ideal for parents with different aged children as it will carry a newborn and a toddler equally well. It is slightly more structured than the Ring Sling without being bulky or cumbersome. It is also easily interchangeable between parents of different sizes.No buckles to adjust – it just ties with a double knot and there are lots of different ways of wearing it. The Mei Hip allows you to carry your toddler on your hip in great comfort. Lots of parents naturally carry their infants this way but they can end up with sore necks and backs.The wide supportive strap of the Mei Hip cups the shoulder and distributes the baby’s weight across the wearer’s torso counterbalancing the weight so it prevents back and neck pain.
In addition to being made from organic cotton all the baby carriers use eco dyes, which are a far safer and more environmentally responsible alternative to conventional dyes, can you tell us a little about this?
Unlike conventional cotton dyes, eco dyes are gentle on the environment and on the people who wear clothing coloured in this way because they do not contain any of the heavy metals or formaldehyde which are part of the conventional cotton dyeing process.
There are two types of eco dyes available at the moment – low impact fibre-reactive dyes and vegetable dyes.The dyes used in all our products are low impact (because they have a minimal impact on the environment) and fibre-reactive (because the dye binds to the fibre so small quantities of dye are required to achieve a rich and vibrant colour. Moreover these dyes use minimal amounts of water and the waste is treatable and recyclable. This has enormous ecological benefits at the dye house but also for the consumer as the colour doesn’t wash out and enter the waterways and the product retains its original colour. All low impact fibre-reactive dyes meet the organic standards specification for toxicity and are certified to Oeko-Tex-100 standards. These standards apply, not just to the dyes that are used but also to the whole dyeing process. All fabric needs to be bleached before it can be dyed to create uniform colour. Conventional cotton is dyed with chlorine which can be carcinogenic but organic cotton dyeing uses hydrogen peroxide which breaks down into water and oxygen.
The reason eco dyes are such an important step forward is because conventional dyes are often very toxic. The dyes used in colouring conventional cotton are usually Azo dyes or sulpha dyes. Azo dyes contain heavy metals – chromium, magnesium, vanadium. These are banned substances by Ecocert, Oeko-Tex etc because they are carcinogenic. Sulpha dyes are sulphur-based and have low levels of acid and they are banned by organic certifiers because they don't meet the required toxicity standards.
Apart from low impact fibre-reactive dyes which are used to dye 98% of organic cotton fabrics produced worldwide, there are organic vegetable dyes which are also permitted in organic cotton dyeing. The issue with these is that they don't meet the colourfast standards and they create significant environmental issues. Vegetable dyes have a low absorption index, which measures the amount of dye needed to dye a yard of fabric, because they don't stick to the fabric or fibre at the time of dyeing (or when you wash the finished garment). As a result a much larger amount of the dye has to be used to achieve required colour depth, and consequently, a significant amount of precious water. Most of the unabsorbed dye washes away and enters the water . (The term for this is Biological Oxygen Demand – it has a high BOD!). The only currently available way to make vegetable dyes adhere better is to use mordanting agents which contain heavy metals such as chromium – so you are back to square one in a sense! However research is ongoing into finding ways of making the vegetable dyes adhere better without toxic chemicals and we talked to a few bed linen manufacturers about this while we were in India. One of the difficulties about the area of vegetable dyes is that it is not well regulated. Natural dyes sound so much better than synthetic dyes but as yet there is no really sustainable natural alternative.
What advice would you have for anybody wishing to set up an ethical business?
Setting up an ethical business is in many ways no different from setting up any kind of business in that you have to start by doing a lot of research to make sure there is a market for your product.This is just as true for the organic cotton business.People won’t buy your product just because it is organic, sustainable and ethically made: they have to like the product in its own right first!
Then you have to do a lot of research to make sure your product is certified all the way through its production and to be comfortable that its impact on people and the environment is in line with your own goals.It seems counterproductive to produce a product made from organic cotton if it is put together in a factory that uses child labour and pays its workers a pittance for long hours of toil in terrible working conditions.
We’re involved in Natural Origins because we wanted to be associated with a sustainable business which does the right thing at every step of the production process.Our cotton is certified organic, the farmer gets a good price for his cotton, we use eco dyes which don’t harm the workers, the environment or the people who wear the products, and the products are all produced in India under fair labour codes of practice. Where possible we use recycled materials in our marketing and packaging.The padding in our slings and baby carriers is made from recycled plastic bottles which are melted and combed into fibre which is non-allergenic. The wood in our Kanoes is plantation grown. However, we recognise we have a long way to go as well. For example, we would love to source our organic cotton from Australia but, at the moment, there is no commercially grown organic cotton in Australia. Everyone needs to think about carbon offsets and how to minimise their footprint. Our goal is to be an example of a sustainable business in terms of its carbon footprint. The more we advance in our collective knowledge about environmental issues, the more we are discovering how best to protect our world.
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
Our business, like any other, relies on us choosing the right products so a perfect day for us is when we hear that one of our products has made a difference to someone’s life – that a sling has helped a mother reassure and comfort her baby while getting on with her chores, or a Kanoe has helped a baby to settle so that harmony can be restored to the home and the whole family can get some much needed sleep.
On a more domestic level, a perfect day is a day when our children are happy and filled with the joys of life.
On top of that, a perfect day is when we wake up to a blue sky and golden sunshine.After decades spent in England, that is something we never take for granted!!
CleanLife Blog: Product feature ecostore Liquid Hand Wash (www.ecostore.co.nz)
Swine Flu fear has us all madly washing our hands, but I really don't mind as it would be fair to say that I am addicted to these ecostore delights. I absolutely love the certified organic fragrances of these products, I mean who doesn't love coconut and vanilla! The fragrance is intense enough to make you feel wonderful, yet gentle enough to not be overpowering. That is probably enough about my love affair, so here is the nitty gritty you need to know. Natural, safe and sexy Made from seven naturally derived ingredients, ecostore’s hand wash has a rich texture and contains no harsh chemicals such as SLS/SLES*, which can dry skin by stripping its natural oils. The range is also free from artificial dyes and fragrances making it suitable for even the most sensitive skin.
Developed in conjunction with a French perfumer, the ecostore range includes two certified organic fragrances: Coconut & Vanilla and Orange & Patchouli. Wheat protein has also been added as a unique moisturising and conditioning agent that retains the skin’s natural oils, leaving it soft and silky.
Eco benefits Harsh chemicals and petrochemicals found in conventional products can be harmful to waterways and marine life.
500ml refills are also available to minimise packaging.
Price point Available in 250ml pump (RRP$5.99) and a 500ml refill (RRP$7.99), from Woolworths stores nationally as well as health and green stores.
Why do they smell so good? The fragrance ingredients are naturally extracted and therefore capture the real essence. For example, the Coconut & Vanilla fragrance contains pure coconut juice, coconut cream and vanilla pod extract – almost good enough to eat!
If you are sick of powder residue on your clothes, itchy skin and overpowering fragrances in your laundry products, then it's worth trying this little gem from ecostore. This eco brand is actually cheaper, than the leading petrochemical filled products, safer for the environment, your clothes and your health, so we think it is an all round winner. Oh and did I mention; it works!
Benefits for the individual:
ecostore Ultra Concentrate Laundry Liquid is made from safer natural, plant and mineral based ingredients, making it gentle on your skin and our environment without compromising on performance. In fact, many people have had relief from eczema, skin irritations and even asthma simply by switching to ecostore’s laundry products.
Environmental benefits:
ecostore’s Ultra Concentrate Laundry Liquid does not contain toxic petrochemicals, dyes or perfumes that can get into waterways and harm marine life. In fact it doesn’t contain many of the ingredients found in most everyday laundry products including phosphates, nitrates, chlorine, optical brighteners, enzymes, EDTA or TEA.
Unlike conventional laundry products that contain bulkers and fillers, ecostore Ultra Concentrate Laundry Liquid contains only pure active ingredients, which means it’s safely ultra-concentrated and the cost per use is less than conventional liquid detergents.This also means less packaging and transport costs so it has less impact on the environment all round.
Cheap and readily available:
ecostore Ultra Concentrate Laundry Liquid is available from Woolworths, Safeway and selected green and health foodstores. RRP $5.99 for 500ml
The history behind this product:
When Malcolm Rands, founder of ecostore first developed ecostore’s laundry liquid, he made it safe enough so that he could use his dirty laundry water on his own organic veggie garden!This makes it ideal for use in your grey water systems and septic tanks, an important consideration when we should be conserving water.
If you don't already know of the destruction of the Indonesian and Sumatran rainforests that is resulting from an explotative palm oil industry then please visit www.palmoilaction.org.au.
The cleanlife blog will be featuring facts about the industry and ideas on how to avoid products containing palm oil over the next few weeks, in the meantime join in a peaceful protest to show your support.
PERTH Action
Consumer Letter Writing Action
* Sunday June 7th, Henderson Street Mall, (the laneway in between the Sail & Anchor Pub & The Fremantle Markets), Fremantle, 10am - 4pm.
If you would like to participate in the Perth action please contact the local organiser, Amanda Taaffe, on Amanda.Taaffe@ubs.com, or our Australian Campaign Coordinator, Anasuya Claff, on 0431 779 644 or at anasuya@palmoilaction.org.au.
Keep your eye out for more on palm oil, products to avoid, and companies that are doing their bit to avoid the product or source it sustainably.
ecostore describes their purpose as ‘creating a healthy sustainable world’ and by all means they are giving it a good shot. The ecostore sustainable household and personal care ranges offer over 100 items which are safe and effective. They are widely available and affordable, making them a great option for those who want to convert to non-toxic products for the home, but don’t have the time to search high and low for them. I was lucky enough to meet ecostore founder Malcolm Rands (aka EcoMan!) briefly at the Organic Expo in Sydney in 2006. We wanted to know a little more about the man behind the brand and the brand itself, so read on for our ecostore interview and BE INSPIRED by this incredible Kiwi success story.
Gina: The ecostore brand started from your home in an eco-village in New Zealand and has now blossomed into and international business with a ‘certified sustainable’ factory. What inspired you to start ecostore?
Malcolm: 25 years ago my wife Melanie and I were part of a small group that started New Zealand’s first Permaculture EcoVillage.
As a group we challenged ourselves to see if the pure water that entered our land would be just as pure when it left. We were a bit smug about this as we all were organic growers and thought we would show the local farmers how to do it.
What astounded us though was when we looked at the water leaving our homes, it turned out the chemicals in the everyday products we used in our homes were even worse than the sprays we had been campaigning against using on the land!
The research done to remedy this and provide healthy alternatives for our family and friends is what we now share with everyone through ecostore.
Gina: The ecostore concept is that the end product has to be good for both the user and the planet, has this been difficult to achieve from a technical viewpoint?
Malcolm: It is a long and considered process but we’ve achieved this by researching all the common chemicals currently used.
Using a precautionary principle (ie. if there is any doubt about the safety of an ingredient then we’ll find an alternative) we made a list of ingredients we will never use (see our “no nasty chemicals” list on our website www.ecostore.net.au).
It was then a matter of finding the best formulation chemists (internationally as well those in New Zealand) and challenging them to make cleaners and body products that work just as well, are just as affordable and look after our health and the health of the planet at the same time.
Challenging, yes, but we have achieved it!
Gina: Your products have also been embraced by allergy suffers due to your extensive labelling and stringent precautionary approach to ingredients, was this due to a personal experience with allergies?
Malcolm: No not at all. I have to admit that when we started selling ecostore products 16 years ago I had not even thought about the fact that our products would be beneficial for allergy sufferers.
But within weeks of sharing our products with the people of New Zealand we started getting letters and phone calls (and today, emails) saying things like, “I don’t sneeze anymore when I clean the house”, “My rash has disappeared”, “My eczema has gone away” and even “My asthma is subsiding”.
As it turns out, the reason there is no restriction or testing on household chemicals is because we don’t consume them! But one of the most dangerous ways for chemicals to enter your body is through your skin. This can affect your immune system and your hormonal systems.
Every ingredient ecostore uses is screened for these effects. This has become our difference because many people don’t realise that there are still natural, eco-friendly ingredients used in products that can still be bad for your health.
With over 100 different products and your own research and development facility; is the ecostore brand looking to continue expanding?
ecostore is just at the start of a journey. We are continuously looking for ways to make it easier for you to make a positive difference in your life.
There is a long way to go but if we all work together and change just the small, everyday actions in our lives, like washing the dishes or shampooing our hair, then we can work to solve the problems with our health and our planet. Our problems aren’t to do with too many humans, it’s to do with our current habits!
Gina: What are your three favourite ecostore products and why?
Malcolm: 1) ecostore laundry liquid - The residues in the clothes are up against you skin 24/7 so you want to make sure they are skin friendly. It also looks after your clothes, in fact many fashion designer are now recommending it. If you want to re use the grey water from the washing machines it’s actually safe to use on your organic garden!
2) ecostore laundry powder - Cleans the worst stains and dirtiest clothes, whilst also looking after your skin and the environment. You can use the grey water on the lawn or trees in your garden (as it has a slightly higher pH, I wouldn’t use it on your food crops which are very pH sensitive). 3) ecostore baby moisturiser - I know many adults who say they cannot find a better skin cream anywhere. One of the reasons our products are so gentle is because they contain ingredients that match the oils and amino acids found naturally in the skin.
Gina: If people are just getting started on converting to a more eco-friendly lifestyle, what would you recommend they start with and why?
Malcolm: Change to ecostore cleaning and body products! They work just as well and because they are safely super concentrated they cost no more per use than other everyday products. They reduce the amount of unnecessary chemicals in your life. Good for your health and the environment!
Making a difference in your life is about taking small steps that all add up. A couple of other simple things people can do are: • Line-dry your washing. The household dryer uses a huge amount of electricity so save money and get some fresh air by hanging washing on the line. It’s also gentler on your clothes! • Save on transport costs and cut carbon emissions. Use public transportation or walk/ride/skate whenever possible. • Electrical appliances left on stand-by can account for up to 10 percent of a household’s annual electricity bill! Reduce your greenhouse gas emissions and save money by turning these off at the power point. The easiest one to remember is to switch off your phone charger when it’s not in use. • Make sure you turn off taps tightly as a dripping tap can waste thousands of litres of water per year. • Take reusable bags whenever you go shopping, not only for groceries but on every occasion. • Switch off lights when you leave a room – simple but easy and effective! • Washing machines use 90% of the energy it requires to heat the water. Most loads only need a maximum temperature of 40°C, and for most things cold washing is perfect.
Gina: You also run the Fairground Foundation, can you tell us a little about that?
Malcolm: My past career was in not for profits. I would spend 95 per cent of my time raising money to spend 5 per cent of my time doing what I loved!
I saw ecostore as a new way of fundraising. I set up a business that would so inspire me that it didn’t feel like I was working, I was just doing what I loved and passionate about!
Ten per cent of ecostore’s profit goes to the Fairground Foundation to make a positive difference in communities via different programs. We have already set up organic food growing lessons in schools and worked on carpooling. These activates are due to grow rapidly over the next few years.
Gina: Ecostore is a true green success story, what advice would you offer to those looking to start their own green enterprises?
1) Follow your passion 2) Be confident and ambitious. We all have a great deal more ability than we often realise or give ourselves credit for 3) Don’t be afraid of taking on partners or sharing resources 4) Be authentic and honest
Gina: We hear you were a TV star named EcoMan in the not so distant past, any chance of a plunge back into the world of TV? Malcolm: I currently am on KiwiFM in New Zealand and have appeared in the media a number of times as EcoMan in my homeland. However, we’ve also recently launched ecostore USA and I’ve been making quite a few TV appearances over there so I guess it’s almost happening quite organically!
Gina: The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
Malcolm: Being back at the EcoVillage with my extended family and recreating the permaculture food jungle I started but had to abandon for a while to set up ecostore. The CleanLife team love ecostore products, our current favourites are the laundry powder (very concentrated so you save money), the pure oxygen whitener and the coconut and vanilla handwash (pictured above), which smells divine.
Visit www.ecostore.net.au for more product information and to find your local stockist.
Blessed Earth; Organic bedding, mattresses, underwear, sleepwear and more
Not sleeping well? Could and an organic mattress and linen help you sleep with a clear conscience and lungs?
Itchy jocks and socks? Have you considered organic underwear?
Blessed Earth (www.blessedearth.com.au) offers a vast array of certified organic bedding and clothing for all age groups including everything from underwear and baby clothes to mattresses and toys. In this inspiring interview Blessed Earth co- founder Raithe, covers everything from the benefits of organic cotton production, the difficulties of starting an ethical business and the beauty of doing what you love.We think you'll find this an inspiring read; we did!
Gina: What inspired you to start Blessed Earth and how has the journey been for you?
Raithe: Five years ago there was very little organic cotton on the internet and no-one had thought about it much. Radha had the idea to sell organic cotton underwear as that seemed to be where the greatest benefit would be felt. It took us 6 months to source some organic fabric and work out how to get from a basic style idea to a saleable product. In the early days we did all our own cutting and even patternmaking. It was a fully hands-on rapid learning curve. A few months after opening, business was painfully slow. We had started the business on a private loan, and friends kept lending us money, even though we were upfront in explaining that things were tough.
A year after opening, we took the plunge and opened our first shop, with the help of a bit of consignment stock from here and there. We worked horrendous hours, up to 1oo hours a week and gradually business began to build up.We’ve always been prolific advertisers and used every opportunity to write articles in magazines about the merits of organic cotton, so that over time, people came to associate us with organic cotton.
After developing our organic cotton products for 2 years, we were given the opportunity to get into organic wool and that’s when the fun really started. We knew nothing about the performance of wool and it cost us $ooo’s to discover that the wool used in bedding needs to be purebred Downs wool, not just wool from an organic farm which had been infused with other strains.
After countless refunds, we finally got it right and went on to achieve Demeter certification for our wool bedding range – a world first. Disappointingly, both wool scours that were doing it certified organically had to close down earlier this year, as wool merchants send most of their wool to China for cleaning these days. However we can still get our wool scoured to organic standards without the piece of paper and it truly is a wonderful range of products, the equal of anything in the world.
Today, Blessed Earth is a thriving business defying the global recession. We are currently planning to franchise the business Australia-wide. Gina: The value of eating organic food is now understood by most individuals and while the importance of organic fabrics and bedding is by all means blossoming, some people still find it hard to understand. Can you give us a brief idea of the most important benefits of organic cotton for the consumer and the environment?
Raithe: We have a full description of these things on our website (www.blessedearth.com.au) but the following summary covers most advantages:
Here are 9 compelling reasons why you should be using organic cotton.
1)Quality. The wide variety of chemicals used in the growing and processing of conventional cotton – some 82 of them – only serve to weaken the structure of the fibre and eventual fabric. Organic cotton is more durable.
2) Comfort. Consumers consistently report that organic cotton products feel better against their skin. As any kinesiologist will confirm, organic cotton products resonate more harmoniously with the human body.
3) Wellbeing.Chemicals are not good for us and are largely to blame for the escalation of degenerative diseases. They are absorbed through our skin and through our lungs, especially when body heat causes them to vaporize.
4) Smells Better. Being absolutely pure and free of additive substances such as formaldehyde, commonly used in the “finishing” of conventional cotton, organic cotton has a delightful, natural aroma.
5) Environmentally safe.Conventional cotton is disastrous for our environment, poisoning our soils and our waterways, consuming vast amounts of water, much of it needed to put out chemical sprays.
6) Socially Responsible. Every time we purchase a cheap imported conventional cotton product, we support the mindless practices that helped produce it. Every time we purchase an organic product, we affirm conscious, life-enhancing practices – we are helping to build a better world.
7) Fair Trade. It takes a lot of conscious, well intended effort to grow cotton organically. Around the world, the experience is that organic farmers care for their workers – and not poisoning them is a good start! We are tending to see whole communities turn away from chemicals and start to receive a fairer return for their product, which is now at a premium.
8) Not G.M. About 70% of Australia’s cotton is now grown from genetically modified seed and this is a common experience, worldwide. Certified organic cotton is grown from seed that has not been modified.
9) Higher Consciousness. Matter is energy and we absorb the consciousness with which the products we use are made. If you appreciate organic foods, you will love organic cotton
Gina: Many people find overhauling their bedding and clothing to organic a little daunting. What would you suggest for people looking to make the change gradually without breaking the bank?
Raithe: There is no simple answer for that. Each individual has different needs. We tend to feel underwear is more important than clothing, and certainly the mattress is vital to good health. Our all-fibre, no spring mattresses have helped a lot of people.
Organic bed-linen is also important as it is in such close proximity to the skin, which readily absorbs traces of chemicals.
We always try to help out people who are making the change and who are finding it a bit of a stretch. It goes against good business practices to do that but it brings us a lot of joy as well.
Gina: If people could only afford three organic items for their homes what would you recommend and why?
Raithe: As explained above: 1. An organic fibre mattress with no springs (which are “poison arrows” in FengShui). 2. Organic cotton underwear (and bras). It’s against the skin in the most sensitive areas. Please, if you are a woman, never wear padded or underwear bras. 3. Organic cotton sheets. Make sure you get certification details.
Gina: Are there any standout best selling products?
Raithe: Our wool bedding range of mattresses, toppers, quilts and pillows. Children absolutely love them.
Gina: Blessed Earth is very conscientious in providing only certified organic products, why is this so crucial to your business.
Raithe: There are many businesses springing up who claim to be selling organic cotton. Often it is nothing more than wishful thinking on their part, based on the say-so of some dubious vendor. Some department stores have even started selling “organic” cotton garments that contain fire retardants and heavy metal dyes.
The public is not yet qualified to make a discerning choice around that – the information is not out there yet. As a rule of thumb, look for the certification details and buy only from businesses that you sense have integrity – and are not just cashing in on the surging demand for chemical-free.
Gina: Most people consider starting and running a small business a difficult undertaking, what keeps you going when things get tough?
Raithe: We have a lot of people starting out come to us looking for guidance. It’s often heart-breaking to hear the questions they ask as it is obvious they will have extreme difficulty getting off the ground.
It’s tough to get going. It takes a lot of courage, perseverance, and especially luck. We have been very fortunate.
To keep going you have to learn to approach every challenge as an opportunity. Retailers have it easy. They go out and buy something from a wholesaler and sell it for more than they paid. It is rather harder for us as we had to develop and perfect most of the products we sell. So there are lots of fabric supply and manufacturing issues to address, as well as marketing challenges.
What keeps us going? Pride in our business, the love of helping people, and the knowledge that we are blessed to be in such an amazing business, in an industry that contributes to the greater good. There is nothing else we would rather be doing. It’s that simple.
Gina: What is your favourite way to indulge after a long work day or week?
Raithe: To be completely honest, i have no concept of “indulge”, although people often ask the same thing. I love what i do, passionately, so the idea of having to get away or relax never arises.
Gina: The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
Raithe: I love to surf so i head down to Mooloolaba (S.E. Queensland) early about 4-5 days a week. I breakfast on the promenade there, read the Australian to see what the powers to be want us to think, then head back to work to start around 8am. Most days i finish around 7-8pm. We have a great time interacting with our customers and almost invariably find that people are looking for an excuse to have a laugh. Talking about beds and partners often brings that up!!! People in the organics industry tend to be more upbeat. Really though, each day is different without being more or less perfect. 5 years in a business you love will cause you to think that way!!!
Visit www.blessedearth.com.au for more information on organic wool and cotton products and the view and purchase from their extensive range.
Eco Manifesto: what are you leaving the next generation?
Chrissy Fuda
If you want to know who you are buying your products from, then it is hard to go past a family run eco store such as Eco Manifesto. Chrissy and Simon’s interest in natural products and sustainable living increased after their first child suffered from sensory and allergic sensitivities, including eczema. They found that they could manage their daughter’s condition by reducing the chemical load in their daily lives. This was the catalyst for starting Eco Manifesto, an online store that features everything you need to live a non-toxic and sustainable lifestyle at an affordable price. We caught up with Chrissy to find out a little bit about the ideals behind their company and her ideas on what each individual can do to reduce their environmental impact.
Gina: Part of your inspiration for Eco Manifesto was your daughter’s sensitivities, but you seem to have gone much further than that by providing a real focus on environmental living; what else inspired you?
Chrissy: In my late 20’s I started to question what seemed to be our reliance on materialistic objects as a measure of our success, security and even happiness. I became interested in living more simply and this naturally progressed to living more sustainably. A book that stood out for me was “Affluenza” by Clive Hamilton and Richard Denniss. This book said a lot about what I’d been thinking for some time about our unsustainable lifestyles and the impact it has on our health and the environment. Watching Al Gore’s documentary “An Inconvenient Truth” also validated what I’d been thinking for years. My children’s future is my biggest inspiration – in what state will we leave the environment for future generations? I fear that our generation may be remembered for not acting when it could have. We have the opportunity to act now, and that is also my inspiration.
I’m certainly learning all the time and this has motivated me to not only make changes to my lifestyle and be more comfortable in the ethical choices I make (these can be different for everyone – and that’s ok!) but also to be pro-actively involved in showing that anyone can make a difference by just making some small changes! Just getting people to question their actions on how they can live and shop more sustainably is a great start. As consumers start making more ethical choices, they increase their purchasing power to make businesses take on more ethical practices and really make a positive impact to the environment – and that is inspiring!
Your Eco Manifesto online store offers everything from organic toys, beeswax candles, cleaning and personal care products to clothing and pet and gardening supplies, is your aim to be a one stop green shop so to speak?
Our aim is to provide everyday products that are better choices for consumers and the environment. Whether that remains as a broad range of eco-friendly products or evolves into a more specific product range will depend on our customers needs. We also want to attract “mainstream” consumers who may not be “sustainable living” converts yet!!! I feel that all the information we receive about “ethical living” (ie non-toxic products, ethical shopping, greenhouse emissions, fair trade, composting, solar power and water saving options) – just to name a few!!! – is making it more complex and time consuming for consumers who may already be time-poor. I think changing the “convenience” habit we have developed is very difficult – we tend to opt for the less time consuming option in our already busy lifestyles and don’t take the time to research this information when buying a particular product.
So, as well as providing eco-friendly products, we try to provide simple, but relevant information to encourage people to take the time to think about the impact their purchases have on their health and the environment.
It can be difficult for consumers to see that some simple practical, affordable, everyday steps CAN make a difference to the environment. Spending thousands of dollars installing solar panels is great, but not an affordable option for everybody. We want our customers to see that going “green” does not have to be expensive or difficult. We want to raise the profile of eco-friendly everyday items with information on how their small changes make a difference to the environment.
There are so many eco-friendly, natural and organic products coming onto the market now, how to you choose the products you are going to stock at Eco Manifesto (and which products you are not going to stock)?
Primarily we try to stock Australian made products that are also manufactured ethically. We look at affordable and quality eco-friendly alternatives for everyday living. Being a small business we generally try the products ourselves to sample the quality. We don’t want to become just a huge one-stop shop, we want to retain the personal connection with our customers and to help people become more informed regarding their product choices.
It has been a struggle at times, because being a mum with a young family; I know how difficult it can be trying to spend your money wisely, and wanting to do your bit for the environment!
We want to get people interested in and personally care about their impact on the environment. We want to make it convenient for consumers by providing products that are healthier alternatives to the toxic-chemical options. We are always keen to listen and encourage suggestions from people about what they want - whether it’s a particular product or just information.
What are your three favourite items currently in store at Eco Manifesto, and why?
Uniquely Organic shampoos & conditioners – they smell fantastic, the whole family can use them, they are chemical free and offer great value for money.
Ecosilk bags – I love that they are practical, last for ages and have great colours! They are really convenient as they are so compact. I leave a few in the car and a few in my handbag, so they are always handy when I shop.
Our range of natural soaps – we have some new soaps that are truly divine! You can really feel and smell the difference of these natural soaps (the only problem is the temptation to stay in the shower longer :-))
If people are just getting started on converting to a more eco-friendly lifestyle, what would you recommend they start with and why?
Start gradually with things that you can do in your everyday routine. These small changes will hardly be noticed, yet make a huge difference! Here are a few ideas to get started:
- ask yourself if something can be used again before you throw it away! - replace chemical cleaning products and skincare with natural alternatives as they run out - take “reusable” shopping bags whenever you can - before buying, ask questions like “Where’s it from? What’s it made of? Do I REALLY need this?” - when buying a gift for someone, look at eco-friendly options - try walking or cycling somewhere instead of driving, even just once a week! - have a shorter shower - donate old magazines to hospitals and waiting rooms - take your old clothes to charity shops - turn the heater down just 1°C and put a jumper on instead
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
I would have to say, it would be waking up on a warm sunny day on an Australian tropical island - knowing there are no routines, no cooking, no cleaning…just fun stuff with my family all day!
What is a skin crusader? and how can we save our skin?
If you are sick of your bathroom cupboards heaving under the weight of a mountain of mostly unused skincare products, you are not alone. So we bring you this interview with much joy. Imagine if you had just three products to clean and nourish your entire face and body. Reading this could make that dream a reality.
Olive Oil, depression, beautiful skin and inspiration are all part of our feature interview with Save our Skin founder Anastasia Lambadaridis. Whether you are looking for a wonderful new skincare range, needing some words of wisdom to warm your cockles or interested to find out what a skin crusader is, then please read on and enjoy.
GC: What inspired you to start Save our Skin and how has the journey been for you?
AL: I went to bed one day and didn’t come out for about 8 weeks.I was depressed, my grand dad had passed away, my job was unsatisfying and I had pnemonia.I was only 27 and I refused to treat my emotional problem with chemicals (anti-depressants) – so I quit my job and started to focus on me for a while. My life started to change for the better.I found out that I was pregnant and having always suffered from sensitive skin, my skin became hyper sensitive during my pregnancy.I turned to olive oil as my staple beauty product, I would wash with it, nourish with it and protect and heal with it. Then I had a dream and the message in that dream was so loud and clear that when I woke I announced that I was going to launch an organic skin care range.That was nearly five years ago now and along the way I’ve been tested as to how much I actually wanted that dream to come true. The journey has been emotional, inspirational and life changing, I know I’m on the right path now.
You call people who use Save our Skin, Skin crusaders, what do you mean by this?
The products in save our skin’s range are all based on ancient formulas that have been around for centuries, the people that developed them where skin crusaders of their time.One of them was Galen, he Greek doctor to the Gladiators of the 2nd century and by calling ourselves skin crusaders we are paying respect to those that went before us.
Also, those who use save our skin products are like ambassadors for change. That’s why we call them skin crusaders.Skin crusaders understand that we need to be kind to ourselves and this planet and that less equals more.Skin crusaders care about more than just being clean, smooth and shiny they care about the worldthat we live in.We are conscious that every dollar we spend is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in, the world we want our children and grand children to live in and so on.
What do you think gives your products a unique edge?
Our products are uniquely different, as we believe in less is more and this philosophy is alive in everything we do.Our entire range consists of only 5 certified/organic ingredients, there is only 3 multifunctional products in the range.And most importantly they work!People are having amazing results, especially those with skin sensitivities.
Your range has only three items all of which have multiple functions, was that intentional?
Sure was, I saw these three products in the dream I had.These days we are sold a pot of goo for every inch of body, you can but an eye balm, foot balm, cuticle balm blah blah blah – whereas one balm will do the trick.Save our skin products have been designed to eliminate the need for so many other things most people stock in their bathroom cabinets
Do you have a favourite Save our Skin product?
I love them all of coarse but I do have favourites at different times of the year and for different parts of my body… For instance a magical golden oil is such a nice and effective drink for sunkissed skin, and a powerful concoction is an amazing healer and lubricant for the winter dries, whilst the mildest soap on earth is an all year round staple.
We normally ask people ‘if you could have only three beauty products what would they be and why?’, I guess that is easy for you….but is there any other products you couldn’t live without?
There sure is. It’s called the Supa Smoothin’ Skin Scrub and it too is made by skin crusaders and comes under the label of good enough 2 eat.You guessed it you can eat it and it tastes like something you’d find on cinnamon doughnuts.Used 1-2 a week on hands, feet and body it removes dead skin cells and leaves you feeling supa smooth all over.It’s like magic!
Most people consider starting and running a small business a difficult undertaking, what keeps you going when things get tough?
I have a little mantra that gets me through the tough times and believe me there have been a few so far…I convince myself that they are just hurdles along the way, thrown at me to to test just how much I want this dream to be real.
Also as a single parent to Alexander-Jaiand running a start up business,It’s only natural for things to get tricky juggling and managing everything.I consider myself lucky and have an amazing network of family and friends, they all support and inspire me in their own special way.I also take time out to exercise, at the moment I am addicted to running – I find it makes me feel strong and happy, it must release the happy hormones in me and it keeps me sane.
Any advice for those individuals wishing to start their own ethical business?
Think BIG!
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours?
I don’t kiss and tell!But it would involve enjoying our gorgeous beaches, sunsets and lots of laughter and HUGS!As they say the best things are free.
If you would like to find out more about Save our Skin products visit Anastasia's website at www.saveourskin.com.au
Mae is the founder and director of Organic Beauty World, and online store specialising in natural and organic product to make you feel and look beautiful. We caught up with Mae to find out a little about her, her company and her favourite products.
What inspired you to start Organic Beauty World and how has the journey been for you?
I used to spend most of my Saturday’s going from store to store looking for natural/organic products. This was a time consuming, costly and frustrating process. I remember thinking, surely it can’t be that difficult to buy organic hair products, natural makeup and natural supplements in the one place. Hence the idea for Organic Beauty World was born over a cup of green tea with some friends and encouragement from my 6 year old daughter.
The Organic Beauty World online store seems to have an ever growing range of products, including everything from certified organic beauty products and makeup to natural hair colours and breastfeeding teas, how do you choose which products you will sell?
In the beginning what to sell was based on trial and error. Now 2 years on I have a much better idea of what customers are looking for. Often our customers will tell us what they want or will let us know about a particular product they like. Many of our top selling products have been uncovered through customer referrals.
Many people find overhauling a chemically laden toiletries cupboard a little too daunting, so continue to use potentially harmful products. What would you suggest for people looking to make the change gradually without breaking the bank?
Keep it simple and throw out 1-2 toxic products a week to start with. Begin with the toothpaste and mouthwash. Gradually replace every single personal care item including sunscreen, makeup, hair care and body care with non toxic alternatives. The Chemical Maze Pocketbook may become your best friend on this journey. Its full of information about the potential health effects of food additives and ingredients used in cosmetics and personal care products. Another great resource is www.cosmeticdatabase.com. Once you start using organic, natural, non toxic products you can’t go back to using the stuff you used to use. There is such a big gap between toxic and non toxic products in terms of quality, feel, smell and peace of mind. Organic and natural products work better!
Are there any standout best selling natural and organic beauty products? Our top selling Organic Beauty World products cover both health (inner beauty) and personal care (outer beauty)
If you could have only three beauty products what would they be and why?First 3 products that came to mind:
I can’t leave home without smothering my face with the Devita Solar Moisturiser. It has an SPF of 30+ (perfect for the Australian climate). It’s non greasy and I love the way my dry skin feels – really soft and hydrated. It uses micronized (no nano) Zinc Oxide, fragrance-free, PABA-free, Gluten-free, safe for vegans, and titanium dioxide-free.
Miessence Organic Deodorant - a beauty must have to keep me smelling beautiful even when most of the day is spent running around doing things.
A handbag must have is the Suvana Certified Organic Paw Paw & Honey Lip Balm. I use this on my lips and under and around my eyes. I really like the safe organic ingredients and the way my lips look plumper after putting it on.
Most people consider starting and running a small business a difficult undertaking, what keeps you going when things get tough?
In a word – my customers! They make me laugh, inspire and educate me and vice versa. In their words:
“I received my hair colours today and dyed my hair, my hair feels AMAZING! It feels so nourished, enriched and the colour is absolutely gorgeous! Just perfect, thank you for your tips”. Susan
“Hi, I just wanted to thanks for my upgraded tub of vital greens. It was a nice surprise. Thankyou for your excellent customer service with all my orders”. Kristy
“Thankyou very much for all your assistance. I love the makeup you recommended. I have been searching for quality organic cosmetics for a while now”. Amanda
Any advice for those individuals wishing to start their own ethical business?
Start with a big vision that drives you and keeps you excited about your business. Write it down so you can see it every day. Tap into any support offered from friends, colleagues, community (online and offline). Use this support base to share information, market your idea, find untapped markets and bring in new customers.
Use your existing networks to find someone with a big database to market your products to. Don’t spend time worrying or fearing about what to do. Take action and do not indulge in negative thinking. Be open to all possibilities and solutions.
What is your favourite way to indulge? A long soak in a tub filled with warm water, 2 tablespoons of Himalayan Detox Bath Salts and a few drops of rose essential oil. Soft music playing in the background. I can just relax and day dream.
The perfect day is different for everybody, how would you describe yours? Every day is perfect, just because I woke up and am able to live and love one more day.
The following blog entry is an extract from email we recieved from a CleanLife reader Marrhea. She has given us permission to reproduce it here, so if you need a little inspiration to get back to your green roots, read on;
I have already converted most of our garden into a vegetable patch. I am still new to vegetables, so it is more something I do enjoyably, and less productively so to speak. I started with the garden beds out the back, and my motto was, if you cant eat it we dont need it. Most of the plants came out, a few were left in, (mainly to placate my partner who was quite distressed at my ripping out all of his plants). I kept a bucket in the kitchen, and anything that could be composted, I dug directly into the empty beds, I was surprised and delighted by how much grew. It wasnt long before all of my garden beds were full, and I hadnt planted a thing.
I tried to put seeds into one bed, to be later transplanted into other beds, however, the cat thought this patch made a great kitty litter, so everything that started to grow got ripped out. Now I put seeds into trays, and transplant once they are bigger. The trouble I have with this, is finding a bed to put the seedlings into, as like I mentioned earlier, all my beds were full with plants self growing. So I started ripping plants from the front garden, so that I could plant the things I grew from seed.
We then purchased a worm farm, which I thought would help with my composting, as with little spare garden space, there was no room to dig buckets of vegetable scraps anywhere. Worm farms do not use as many vegetable scraps as I thought they would though, and so shortly after, we also invested in a compost bin. Our worm farm is situated near our front door, and along with all the vegetables now growing in our front garden, I have lots of conversations about vegetables with anyone who happens by our house, from neighbors and friends, through to door knockers and delivery people. I get two buckets of liquid fertilizer a week from the worm farm, with very little food scraps necessary.
I have also ripped up all the lawn from out the back under my clothesline, and am in the process of replacing it with creeping herbs, which smell delightful under my feet as I am hanging out the washing. Under the kids climbing frame, I am putting in a creeping flower, the name of which I do not know, which unlike grass, does not need mowing and whipper snipping, and is a lot softer if the kids should happen to fall or jump off.
The main problem I have found with growing vegetables (I do not have the verge problem, my partner will not let me go past the letterbox with my planting, still there will be plenty of room out the front once I get rid of all the other non productive plants) is watering. With only being able to use retic twice a week, alot of hand watering needs to be done. One of the ways I combat this, is by using recycled water. I have buckets in the shower, which catch the water before it heats up to temperature, and I leave these in while I am showering to see how much more I can save. I have also taught my children and partner to do this. As we only use organic body products, I do not have a problem with putting the water into the garden. The buckets I then empty out into the garden via watering can during the day sometime when I get a spare minute or five. I also have a bucket in my kitchen sink, which is always situated under the running tap, I was really surprised with how much water goes down the kitchen drain. I empty this bucket at least six times a day, note that I said at least. With all this recycled kitchen and bathroom water, I hardly ever need to hose water. My partner has suggested installing recycling drainage so that I do not have to haul buckets through the house, however, I find that emptying the buckets regulary through a watering can, gives me an opportunity to get rid of the weeds as they start to appear, and spot new seeds as they are starting to sprout.
I do not have any conventional vegetable patches throughout my garden, as most of it is grown of its own free will through my scraps. I merely plant any seedling in between what has decided to grow on its own. I have moved a few avocado trees begining to grow near the house to somewhere near the verge where there is a bit more room, although, I now have so many of them I can see I will need to start giving them away as presents. I have put in some herbs also, and have a list of more I would like to put in as well as fruit trees, and berries. Now that I am begining to see how growing vegetables works, I am starting to put a plan to the garden space we have, which includes the removal of all the grass on our block, except of course that on the verge. After all, I do need some grass clippings for the compost.
Another thing I found when planting vegetables, is that they do need work to get them going. Especially with the removal of weeds. Once I had established the vegetable beds, with the weeds firmly removed by the root, they were extremely easy to care for. The kids love to do caterpillar and snail patrol. I give them a bucket and let them see how much they can get. I did try putting these into the bin, but found they crawl back out, so unfortunately, these I do destroy. Maybe I could walk them around to the park and set them free there, however, at the moment I just dont have the time, and my neighbors dont want them in their yards either. I have not done well with store bought seedlings, and so tend to just grow from seed or scraps, and have found that my vegie patch has been achieved rather cheaply.
Well, that is what I have done so far with my garden, wish I could send you some pics, but like I said, it is still in its early stages, and there is so much I still need to do, that I do not have any for you at the moment. Oh yeah, my friends looked at me like I was some kind of weird freak when I first started ripping out plants, and putting in vegies, but now whenever they come over, I seem to be giving them tips on how to grow their own, and they always love to see what I have growing this time around.
If you have advice, information or inspiration about your own green projects, please share them with us!
The staple-less stapler
