THE DIRT
We all know that some Dad's can be particularly hard to buy for, however that doesn't mean that we should stick to the standard conventional cotton socks and jocks. Here's why.

Conventional Cotton is extremely detrimental to the environment. It takes up 3% of the worlds arable land , but uses 25% of the worlds pesticides.

Electronic gadgets can be a very cool gift for Dad but be wary of providing unneccessary replacements.

* The production of just one desktop computer and monitor uses 22kg of chemicals, 1500L water and 240kg of fossil fuels ( about the same amount as used in producing a medium sized car!).

* Once electronic items hit landfill (which more than 70% do),  lead, cadminium, mercury and other toxic chemicals are released and can leach into the water table.

If you are in the running for 'worlds worst present wrapper' like me, (well we can't all be Miss Universe) then using only recycled or re-used paper may just give you that competitive edge.  
 

G SPOT
So what are we getting our Dads? Sorry we can't tell you, as they read these emails, but you can be sure it will be Clean and Green.

We have two Easy Living Green bags to give to for the two best BLOGs before the end of August. We have placed a 'How to BLOG' on the BLOG for those new to the experience.

COME CLEAN

So before all the Dads out there worry that we might leave them presentless, here are some ecological gifts ideas................

Biome Living  For Dad's that make a difference, you'll find just-the-thing at Biome.   Try natural beer shampoo, a fascinating eco-theme book, reusable SIGG sports bottle or hemp hammock to start.

Todae is the perfect place to shop for eco-gadgets for Dad, including hand powered radio torches and  flashlights (which charge your mobile) and solar chargers for electronic equipment. If he's into nature, there are great  books on gardening and architecture and even hardware products.
(Use code CLO8 for a 10% discount until the 1st September 06)

TEAR Australia offer a practical solution to world poverty and overconsumption. You can purchase a variety of gifts for the worlds poorest people. From an $8 mosquito net to adult literacy classes and Organic gardens, these gifts can change lives.

Eco Depot offer some very funky eco gifts for the modern man.

In the UK try Natural Collection for some ethical gift ideas for the fussiest of Dads.