Category — Social Responsibility

Thanks to their eco-smarts in the classroom, Mrs. Julie Schnedler and her sixth grade class at Mediapolis Community School in Mediapolis, Iowa are taking a trip to Disney World. The class’s project, Operation: Save the Quail, was chosen as the Grand Prize Winner of the 2009 Disney Planet Challenge, which invited fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade classrooms and student environmental groups across the country to learn more about science, conservation, and teamwork by creating an eco-conscious project portfolio.

Operation: Save the Quail beat out the competition in a number of categories, including environmental relevance, community involvement, originality, and sustainability. Students worked to restore the natural habitat of the local bobwhite quail, whose population was dwindling due to harsh weather and decreased prairie land.

The winning project was chosen by a committee of scientists, environmental experts, and educators. Best of all? Mrs. Schnedler’s class found out about their grand prize status by a surprise visit from Mickey Mouse.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Great iphone apps for kids! These’ll get your family outside from spring break well through summer:

• Turn the park into a wonderland. With the amazingly cool app The Hidden Park, your family will see your local park in a whole new way. You may not realize it, but there are hidden trolls and fairies in your neighborhood—you just need this app to see them. If you don’t live near one of the big-city parks already part of the app, you can use the Park Builder to create your own magical scenes.
• Go geocaching. Geocaching is like a scavenger hunt–by using GPS coordinates, you can find little treasures hidden by other geocachers. It’s a great family activity, and you can use the Geocaching app to search for more than a million stashes hidden all over the country.
• Enjoying the scenery? Find out what you’re looking at! The TreeBook app will help you identify the 100 most common trees in North America by looking closely at the leaves. Your kids will get a kick out of narrowing down the possibilities until–success!–there’s only one tree it could be.

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Bottled water is the perfect option for kids and parents who need to stay hydrated on the run. Here, the top 3 reasons why I love the stuff:

1. It tastes great. So much better, I think, than filtered tap water. The bottled water companies must really be onto something with that reverse osmosis!
2. It’s cheap. I can buy a twenty-pack of plastic bottles for something like $10, which is great when I want to drink just half a bottle, forget about it, then open up a new one a little while later.
3. It’s CONVENIENT! No lugging around extra stuff here. What’s better than being able to carry a plastic water bottle around with you, then just toss it in the trash when you’re done?

OK, your turn. What do you love most about bottled water? APRIL FOOLS FROM KIWI!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

My job includes frequent traveling to different green festivals across the country. On a recent visit to New York, I had the pleasure of meeting Brian Yanish, the creator of Scrap Kins, an eco-creativity program for kids based on the adventures of a group of monsters living in a recycle center (creative, isn’t it?).  Itcher, Digger, Chomper, Stacker, Swooper, and Wrecks come straight from Yanish’s imaginative childhood drawings, and their cozy recycle center is built with materials humans throw away everyday. The Scrap Kins’ mission: to promote eco-awareness and encourage kids to create stories, recycled art, and even re-purpose fashion using old-fashioned imagination.

In addition to helping kids get their creative juices flowing, the Scrap Kins are hard at work spreading their green message all across the country. In 2009, they developed a line of paper portfolios and theme books for RiteAid and Albertsons stores featuring art project ideas and eco tips. This year saw the launch of a sticker activity calendar (printed on 90% recycled material, no less), boasting  12 months of eco-creative activities, crafts, and games just for kids.

Want to learn more? Check out scrapkins.com for news, upcoming events, plus free recyclable art projects for children of all ages; or become a fan on Facebook or follower on Twitter. And be sure to check back next week when we give away 5 Scrap Kins calendars!

-Brittany, KIWI staffer

Last spring, nearly one billion people in 4,100 cities worldwide supported the fight against global warming by going dark for Earth Hour. The annual event, which asks people to turn off their lights (and TVs, and computers, and cell phone, etc!) for one hour, takes place again tomorrow, March 27th at 8:30 pm local time. Mega landmarks across the globe like the pyramids of Giza, Golden Gate Bridge, Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens, Las Vegas Strip, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, and St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City (just to name a few) are all participating—so join in on the planet-friendly fun! Pledge your participation and learn more at earthhour.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

We’ve all been there: You’ve barely cut the tags out of your kids’ clothes and they’ve already outgrown them! Instead of heading to the mall, try thredUP Kids, a new site where parents can exchange boxes of (like-new) children’s clothing in bulk. It’s super-easy, too. Browse the boxes of clothes listed by other parents and choose one you like (or tell thredUP your preferences and they’ll look for you!), box up your little one’s old clothing, and pay shipping for your new items. It’ll save time, money, and the valuable resources needed to make new duds. Interested? So are lots of other parents–but KIWI readers get to bypass the membership wait list! To join, click here.

-Nicole McGovern

Today is World Water Day, and while we here in the U.S. have the luxury of choosing tap over bottled, that’s not the case in much of the world. Nearly 1.5 billion people don’t have access to safe drinking water, and when water is polluted, people are more likely to be affected by waterborne diseases. 

Here are a few simple ways to recognize World Water Day with your family:

• Check out the kids’ page on Water Use it Wisely. There are some fun educational games you and your kids can explore together, to learn ways to conserve at home.
• Support an organization that provides clean water. Some major corporations sponsor these (like P&G and Johnson’s), but we especially like the nonprofit charity: water, which today is launching a focused initiative to help people in Haiti.
• Be aware of your own water use. Sure, it’s not like we can ship our water over to people in need, but by making simple changes, like only running the dishwasher when it’s full, we can teach kids that we don’t take our good fortune for granted. And here’s one idea some kids might really get behind: Let your child skip his bath tonight!

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

A recent study by the University of Minnesota found that consumers are more likely to choose green products over conventional when others might be watching. In other words, people are buying green to look good. According to lead researcher Vladas Griskevicius, consumers would rather forego comfort and luxury in an attempt to appear altruistic by purchasing eco-friendly products—even when said products are “inferior in quality”. These are interesting findings to be sure, and ones that open a whole host of questions.

First, I’m wondering about the claim that many green products are inferior to their conventional counterparts. In his study, Griskevicius uses the Toyota Prius as an example. Whether it saves gas or not, the Prius is a nice car—just as nice as many other similarly-priced vehicles. And while there may be a few eco-friendly products that don’t stack up performance-wise to conventional ones, (mascara comes to mind) even those cases offer huge advantages regarding the environment and people’s health. With benefits like that, I’m not sure calling said product inferior is really fair. A bigger issue with the claim? Most green products do work well, and don’t require people to sacrifice “luxury and comfort”. Want to buy an organic set of bedsheets? They’re chemical-free and are just as soft (if not softer) than a regular set. Plant-based cleaners? Most fight grime just as well as conventional (don’t believe it? Check out the reader-tested green cleaner piece in our upcoming April/May issue). I could go on, but I’m sure you get the point.

Another thing: Maybe some people do choose green products just to appear altruistic—so what? Whether your reason for buying a coffee table with FSC-certified wood is because you love the rainforest or because you love showing off to your dinner guests is irrelevant. Either way, consumer dollars are going towards a green product instead of a conventional one. The planet gets the same benefits, people get the same benefits, and companies and manufacturers get the message that consumers want more eco-friendly options.

I’m curious to hear what readers think about the issues brought up by this study. Are green products really inferior to conventional ones—and do you feel like you’re giving up on luxury or comfort when you buy them? And does it really matter why people are choosing eco-friendly options—so long as they are, in fact, being chosen?

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Are you a babywearing mom or dad? If so, you may want to take note of a new baby sling warning that’s about to be issued by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Concerns about first cropped up two years ago after nearly two dozen babies sustained injuries from falling out of soft slings over the passed 20 years.  Now, the commission is responding to claims of infant suffocation caused by improperly-worn slings.

The benefits of babywearing abound: It fosters bonding and helps babies regulate heart rate and breathing. Studies have even shown that babies who are carried in a sling tend to cry less than their non-sling counterparts. The danger occurs when infants are cradled in a “C-like” or curved position. Since very young babies have little to no control over their head and neck movement, this chin-to-chest posture can restrict airflow and result in asphyxiation.

There’s no word yet on whether or not the warning will single out specific sling models or brands. However, most experts still agree that babywearing is a safe—when done properly. The recommended method? Keep baby sitting upright and facing tummy-to-tummy with the babywearer.

We want to know what you think. Is the warning enough to scare you away from babywearing, or will you continue to use slings?

-Nicole McGovern

Planning a family movie night? Keep your kids entertained and teach them them a thing or two about caring for the planet at the same time with these green-themed flicks:

• March of the Peguins. Adorable, tuxedo-clad birds walk (and walk, and walk, and walk) to raise their babies and find food.
• Wall-E. Seven hundred years in the future, Earth has become uninhabitable. Leave it to this small but mighty robot to make the planet healthy enough for humans again.
• Bee Movie. Barry B. Benson wants to do more with his life than just make honey. His plan? To venture out of the hive and get a bee’s-eye view of the human world.
• Ferngully: The Last Rainforest. An oldy but a goodie: Fairies (and a hilarious bat voiced by Robin Williams) try to save their rain forest home from human destruction.

Does your family have a favorite eco-flick? Let us know!

Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Ever wish there were more answers about what causes asthma or autism? Ever wonder when someone’s going to really try to answer these questions?

The National Children’s Study is aiming to do just that. It’s a huge government-funded long-term study that’s going to examine environmental influences on children’s health and development by following babies until they turn 21 (that’s seriously long-term!). The researchers are enrolling families now, so if you’re pregnant or have a new baby, find out if you might qualify. You and your baby could be a part of major breakthroughs in what we know about children’s health today.

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Is clean coal for real?

What do clean coal and high fructose corn syrup have in common? They’re both getting major marketing campaigns to boost their image. 

You might have seen the commercials for “clean coal” that are airing during the Olympics. They’re well-done and, dare I say, touching? All those good, honest mine workers. But something doesn’t seem right: Didn’t Al Gore say that clean coal is like a healthy cigarette? (Yes, he did.) President Obama is urging coal companies to find cleaner ways to produce coal–after all, it’s energy we can use that comes from this country. But is it even possible to capture all those carbon emissions and…do something else with them? Some environmental groups say maybe; others say no. It’s hard for regular people like you and me to know what to support here. I think focusing on other renewable energy would be wiser. But what do you think?

The other baddie trying to get a makeover is high fructose corn syrup. These commercials are going the comic route: One person says how bad HFCS is, the other says “wait, why?” and then the health-foodie is made to look like an idiot for not knowing what to say. If you’re like me, these commercials made you a little uncomfortable. Because what do you say? (Seriously, I want to know what you say–share in the comments below.) Here’s what I’ve uncovered: Maybe they’re right that HFCS and sugar are really, really similar. But HFCS is still artificial, and isn’t real better than fake? But most importantly: I don’t know who ever said that sugar’s healthy, but it sure wasn’t me. It’s tasty, and I love it, and I personally think it can be a part of a wholesome diet, but nobody should be drinking and eating it or HFCS all day long. What do you think about sugar and HFCS?

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

This winter, mega snowstorms and below-average temperatures have been the norm in all parts of the country, causing some skeptics to declare the weather as evidence that climate change doesn’t actually exist. But scientist and kids TV show host Bill Nye says the naysayers are wrong.

According to Nye, who recently appeared on MSNBC’s The Rachel Maddow Show, the extreme winter weather is instead proof that climate change is happening. Say what? Turns out, global warming isn’t just above-average temperatures or below-average rainfall. Instead, it encompasses all forms of abnormal weather—icy cold and record snowfalls included (and is why the phenomenon is increasingly being referred to exclusively as “climate change”).

The takeaway? Eco-conscious families should continue efforts to reduce their carbon footprints. (Can’t stand the thought of being cold after turning the thermostat a few degrees lower? Check out these planet-friendly ways to stay warm.)

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

The 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver are well underway, and while the athletes are getting gold, silver, and bronze, Vancouver itself might be up for a green medal. The host city’s commitment to sustainability might not be getting as much coverage as Apolo Ohno, but it’s at least as carefully planned out as the skater’s famous soul patch.

A few things Vancouver has done to make the Olympic Games green:

* All the venues were designed using LEED sustainability objectives. One example: You know all that rain that’s been messing with the event schedule? At the Richmond Olympic Oval, it’s being collected and used to flush the building’s toilets.

* That amazing cross-country torch relay? Carbon neutral.

* The Olympic Organizing Committee signed a protocol with Four Host First Nations (the aboriginal groups that have inhabited Canadian land since long before there was a Canada) to work together to create a successful Games. This is an indication that to Vancouver, respecting native people is a crucial part of sustainable living.

Yes, some argue that keeping a huge torch lit for 16 days isn’t exactly green. And we’re all plugging in our TVs to watch. But I think we should applaud Vancouver for its efforts, and I hear that London is planning a greener Games, too. What do you think? Good job, or not enough?

-Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Unless you’re a fan of the sprouted variety, you probably don’t think much about alfalfa. However, a new statement by the USDA is giving advocates of organic food reason to be concerned about the crop.

In a newly-released draft of their Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) of Genetically Engineered Alfalfa, the USDA says they plan to approve the plant for commercial use. While this might not mean much to you initially, alfalfa is a food staple for beef and dairy cows as well as an important natural soil enhancer. According to Organic Valley Farms, once genetically-engineered alfalfa is introduced into the farming system, it’s contamination of non-GE plants is “all but inevitable”. The end result? Organic meat and dairy products risk becoming tainted with genetically modified organisms.

The USDA’s report says there’s no evidence that consumers care about GE contamination of organic alfalfa—but they’re wrong. Help prove otherwise (and protect organics!) by demanding that GE alfalfa not be approved. Read more here, then write to the USDA by February 16th at regulations.gov.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Last year, it was a gluten-free cake. Now, Starbucks is partnering with Dr. Lucy’s Cookies to offer its customers a sweet treat that’s vegan—plus free of other common allergens including wheat, peanuts, and tree nuts.

While positive and negative opinions abound about the coffee giant, Starbucks’ move to offer a snack that’s free of animal products is a good thing for two reasons: Not only does it provide another option for those with special diets, but it introduces said diets more into the mainstream. And since eating less meat and dairy in favor of plant-based foods is better for the environment, here’s hoping the cookie offering will inspire coffee drinkers across the country to eat more vegan meals and snacks.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Two years after the National Toxicology Program declared that bisphenol A poses health dangers, the FDA has followed suit. The department, which previously stated that BPA posed no risk to humans, now says exposure to the chemical is “of some concern” for infants and children and that additional research by the National Institute of Health is needed to learn more.

Countries like Canada and Japan have already taken steps to remove BPA from many consumer products, but the United States has lagged behind. While the FDA currently lacks the power to regulate BPA, their statement is a significant first step to keeping Americans safer and healthier. Hopefully, work by the NIH will convincingly demonstrate the dangers of the chemical, prompting Congress to place the FDA in a position to limit or ban BPA use by manufacturers.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Every time an old light bulb in my apartment burns out, I replace it with a compact fluorescent (CFL) bulb. Of course I do!—conventional bulbs are becoming a thing of the past, and CFLs are one of the easiest steps to living green. But whenever I’m screwing the new bulbs into their sockets in my 10foot ceilings, I worry about what kind of mess they’d make if they fell.

The mercury in CFLs has always scared me, even though they contain very low levels of it and there are safe ways of cleaning it up should a bulb break. Still, why not avoid the problem altogether? The new ArmorLite bulbs from ClearLite ($15 for 2 at amazon.com), help protect people from the chemicals in CFL bulbs with an outer silicone shell. If the bulb breaks, the coating helps contain it within the shell, making the bulb both safer and a whole lot easier to clean up (no more broken glass!). I’m moving to a new apartment soon, but when the bulbs there burn out, I’ll be ready!

-Michelle, KIWI editor

If you have a teen or tween, I’m willing to bet she (or he) is pretty fashion-conscious—and is constantly trying to update her wardrobe with the latest trends. But what to do with the old clothes your kid has (literally or figuratively) outgrown? If the item in question is denim, consider donating to Jeans for Teens, a campaign that collects gently used jeans for homeless teens.

Taking part in the program is easy: Just drop off any pair of used jeans to a local Aeropostale store between January 19th and February 14th. The pants will be given to a local homeless shelter or charity—and participants will receive 25% off a new pair of Aeropostale jeans. I say, take it to the next level and encourage your teen to collect used jeans from her friends, or even start a jean drive at her school!

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Happy New Year! This week, we’re highlighting bloggers that are participating in One Small Change. Started by Hip Mountain Mama, the project is challenging families to adopt one planet-friendly change each month leading up to Earth Day (4/22/10). Want to participate? Learn more here.

• Hip Mountain Mama‘s first small change towards living greener? Cutting back on TP use with the family cloth.
• Plain and Joyful Living isn’t giving up coffee—but her family is saving energy by brewing the drink on a wood stove.
• Green Acres in the City shares some pretty pictures of the snow and her family’s first small change: Installing a low-flow shower head.
• Earthmonkey Mama‘s family is cutting back on their meat consumption, opting for 2-3 veg meals each week.
• Recycling isn’t yet commonplace in Gypsy Forest‘s southern Louisiana community, but it’s her family’s small change for this month.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Whether from gifts you ordered online or ones sent from friends or family far away, I’m willing to bet you’ve got at least one box full of styrofoam peanuts or bubble wrap heading for the garbage bin. But wait! There are planet-friendly alternatives to dealing with post-holiday trash.

The easiest way? Save used packing material for the next time you need to ship an item. It’ll save you money at the post office, and keep waste out of the landfill. Don’t have the space to hold onto the extra junk? Try recycling it! While packing peanuts might not be accepted in your municipality-issued recycle bin, that doesn’t mean you can’t give them a second life. Visit loosefillpackaging.com to find a drop-off center near you that’ll take your packing material off your hands–while keeping the planet cleaner.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

We here at KIWI don’t usually cheer for sugar-laden sodas, but we’re giving two thumbs up to the latest eco-conscious effort by Coca-Cola.

Studies have shown that, if left unchecked, hydrofluorocarbons will be responsible for between 28%-45% of carbon emissions by 2050—so we’re thrilled to hear that the bottled-beverage giant has announced plans to make it’s vending machines free of the compound by 2015. Within six years’ time, the company will distribute new, greener vending machines that’ll reduce a drink dispenser’s carbon footprint by a whopping (ready for this?) NINETY-NINE PERCENT!

Coca-Cola hopes that this step will inspire other beverage companies to take HFC emissions seriously and take action to make their carbon footprints smaller, too.

-Brittany Golde, KIWI marketing manager

The holiday greetings have already started rolling in my mailbox, but I know some folks who are still scrambling to find and send the perfect cards to their friends and family. If you’re one of them, consider this: Over 2.5 billion holiday cards are sold in the U.S. each year—that’s enough to fill a ten-story building the size of a football field! Even worse, the majority of these cards eventually end up in a landfill as part of the 25 million extra tons of garbage Americans produce from Thanksgiving to New Years. Talk about a lot of trash!

Fortunately, there’s an easy solution. Choosing greeting cards made from post-consumer recycled paper (and that don’t contain metallic foil inserts) ensures that said cards are able to be recycled instead of thrown in the garbage. (Think of it as your holiday gift to the planet!) Where to get eco-friendly cards? Here, some of our favorite places:

• Every card—and there’s a huge selection of them—at MyGoodGreetings.com is made from 100% recycled, FSC-certified paper stock.
• Greenfield Paper Company offers cards made from hemp or ones that recipients can plant in the ground.
• Find cute, modern designs made of recycled paper or eco-friendly wood at Night Owl Paper Goods.

And ahat to do with the holiday cards you receive from others that aren’t recyclable? Fold them up into Uncle Bucky’s Gift Boxes! They’re so cute, no one will want to toss them in the trash.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

I just read about a fascinating—and pretty scary—report from the Environmental Working Group about the huge number of toxic chemicals found in the cord blood of 10 newborns in a recent study. Want to know how many chemicals they found? Brace yourself: 232! 

There weren’t enough babies in the study for anybody to say that all or most of babies born today are affected by these pollutants (like BPA), but it’s still troubling. The babies were from a variety of U.S. states, and all were racial or ethnic minorities (the study authors wanted to be sure that minorities are part of the equation when other researchers start looking at how these kinds of toxic chemicals affect the population as a whole).  

To me, this all is a clear indication that we have a lot more to do to encourage companies to limit their use of these harmful toxins. In the meantime, the EWG has some great advice for moms-to-be on having a safer pregnancy.

What did you do to limit your exposure to chemicals while pregnant? Do you have other advice for moms-to-be on this front?

–Sarah, KIWI editorial director

Many families love to take advantage of their kids’ holiday breaks from school by taking a vacation. After finding your green destination and planning your itinerary of touring, dining, and relaxing (perhaps by the beach!), follow these green tips to ensure your big trip has as little impact on the planet as possible:

• Reduce, reuse, recycle. Try your best to follow this mantra whenever possible!
• Use public transportation like bus, train, or subway instead of taxicabs. If possible, rent bicycles—or just walk!
• Lodge at an eco-friendly hotel that’s dedicated to sustainability, and be sure to re-use your hotel linens and towels.
• Opt for a digital camera instead of a disposable one.
• Before leaving home, unplug your electrical appliances, turn your water heater down, and change your thermostat setting.
• Pack lightly.

–Brittany, KIWI marketing manager

December is a prime-time for household energy use: In addition to the usual electronic gadgets like cell phone chargers, TVs, and computers, there’s the added burden of holiday lights, plus regular lights that simply stay on longer due to fewer daylight hours. Not only does all this electricity add up to a higher energy bill, it also makes for a higher carbon footprint. But don’t worry—there’s a simple solution (and it doesn’t involve sitting in the dark!).

Believe it or not, electronic devices suck up energy from power outlets even when they aren’t in use. How to stop them? Unplug! If it sounds like a pain, try using a power strip—that way, you’ll only deal with one big plug instead of a ton of smaller ones. And if that’s not an option, at least unplug the items that aren’t used as frequently (such as a microwave, which, compared to something like a lamp or TV, is used less.) It’s an incredibly easy (not to mention incredibly effective) way to curb your energy use—so there’s really no excuse not to get in the habit!

Need more motivation? Check out this chart that illustrates the amount of standby power used by different devices and appliances.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

If you have a baby on the way, chances are your typical “Season’s Greetings” holiday cards feel like they’re leaving something out. Like, the biggest, most exciting thing ever. You’re having a baby!

That’s why I love these clever new cards from To Be Greetings. They’re stylish and a little bit cheeky–and they celebrate the holidays and your growing family. Plus, they’re printed on FSC-certified paper, with vegetable-based inks–and the printing plant is powered by wind.

What a wonderful way to share your joy this season!

—Sarah, KIWI Editorial Director

We’ve already showed off KIWI’s 2009 Best Green Toys & Gifts, plus our picks for eco-friendly online retailers—but alternative options like charity donations abound this holiday season. Here, some organizations we love:

• Go wild. Adopt-an-animal programs from organizations like Oceana and the World Wildlife Fund allow gifters to sponsor lions, tigers, and bears (and more!) in the name of the individual of their choice. What’s more, the sponsorship comes complete with a photo and certificate of adoption!
• Support good health. While the U.S. might currently be undergoing healthcare problems of it’s own, it’s nothing compared to the lack of resources in many Asian and African countries. Help moms in third world countries give birth safely with a Safe Motherhood Kit, or buy bricks to build one room in an Bolivian health clinic.
• Have a cow. Instead of a box of chocolates or coffee sampler for the foodie in your life, let them help others beat hunger through Heifer International. The organization promotes food self-sufficiency by providing families with cows, sheep, chickens, and other livestock.

Will you be giving charitable gifts this holiday season? If so, who do you plan to support?

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

There’s no doubt that old paper shopping bags or newspaper can get the job done when it comes to wrapping holiday gifts—but they aren’t the prettiest options. Fortunately, there’s plenty of eco-friendly gift-wrap out there that’ll make your presents look festive while being gentler on the planet.

• Try Pristine Planet for a huge selection of earth-friendly wrapping paper, gift bags, and even wine bags.
• Earth Love’n Paper Products has unique and creative recycled paper products for everyone on your list—naughty or nice!
• Looking for more than just seasonal paper? Check out Nashville Wraps’ biodegradable sacks, boxes, and bags.
• Want to send good greetings along with your gift? Bambeco has eco-friendly cards and stationary.

Happy wrapping!

-Brittany, KIWI Marketing Manager

Attention all eco-minded holiday shoppers! Did you know that ordering holiday gifts on line is significantly more earth-friendly than buying them at the store? E-stores and warehouses use less space and energy than a traditional retail store, while mass deliveries by truck, van, or even airplane uses less fuel than individual car trips. Save time, sanity, and the environment? Sign me up!

Best of all, when online purchases are made from eco-friendly retailers, your holiday shopping gets even greener. One of my favorites? TheUltimateGreenStore.com. Like the name implies, it’s got everything! Want a futuristic, solar-powered race car for your kid? They’ve got it. What about a hip tote made from recycled seat belts for your best friend? That’s there too. Or maybe an organic shaving kit for your hubby’s stocking? Check, check, check.

Want to get shopping? Head over to TheUltimateGreenStore.com. Then, use that time you would’ve spent in traffic in the mall parking lot to curl up with a blanket, a good book, and a mug of hot cocoa.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

The calendar might not say so, but with the threat of snow in the forecast all the way down here in Austin, Texas, I’m declaring winter officially here. And since the heater in my apartment is broken, I’m having to find other ways to keep warm. The good news? I’m using less resources, and consequently saving some money on this month’s heating bill. Whether you’re looking to lower your home’s carbon footprint, cut energy costs, or just deal with a cold or drafty living space—there’s plenty of alternative means for staying toasty. Some of my tried-and-true methods:

1. Dress for the occasion. Don cold-weather staples like thick socks, thermal underwear, and plenty of flannel. For extra coziness, I like to wrap myself in a blanket, too (and pretend I’m a superhero or wizard).
2. Drink up. Now’s the time to keep the warm liquids flowing. Some of my favorites? Ginger, lemon, and honey steeped in hot water; raw hot chocolate (made with boiling water, cocoa powder, vanilla, raw almond butter, coconut oil, and agave nectar—who knew healthy could taste so good?); or for something savory, a mug of steaming veggie miso broth.
3. End the draft. The one creeping in under through your doors and windows, that is. While caulking around cracks is a great option, it’s one I can’t afford. Instead, I line edges with blankets and towels.
4. Go in reverse. The first time I heard that reversing the spin of your ceiling fan would make you warm instead of cool, I was seriously amazed. Make it turn clockwise to push warm air down.
5. Move, move, move. When you’re cold, it’s tempting to sit huddled in your favorite cozy nook under layers of blankets. But you’ll up your body temperature if you keep moving (and burn some extra calories in the process).
6. Use food. According to traditional medicine, ginger and cinnamon are warming spices. Add some to a piping hot bowl of porridge!
7. Try a hot water bottle. They conform to your body and stay warm for a while! I like to put one on my stomach and rest my hands underneath.
8. Get close! My favorite. Cuddle with your kids, your partner, or your companion animals—and keep each other warm!

Did I miss anything? What are your family’s easy, inexpensive ways for keeping warm when the mercury drops?

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Happy Thanksgiving to all! Whether you are traveling afar or celebrating the holiday right at home, try making your T-Day a green one! My favorite eco-friendly tips:

• Purchase your turkey and veggies from a local farmer’s market.
• If traveling locally for dinner, consider carpooling or using public transportation.
• Avoid disposable plastic wrap or containers for your leftovers. Instead, try reusable!
• Opt for natural decorations like gourds, pumpkins, or cornstalks (that can later be eaten or composted) instead of artificial ones that’ll just get thrown out.
• For the aftermath, use non-toxic dish soap and kitchen cleaner.
• Choose organic or biodynamic wine and spirits.
• Recycle whenever possible.
• Air dry your servingware, dishes, and utensils.

-Brittany, KIWI marketing manager

If you thought the fight against global warming is grown-up stuff, think again. Last week, fifteen-year-old Alec Loorz brought his Declaration of Independence from Fossil Fuels to the Senate Committee on the Environment and Public Works in an effort to encourage the United States to reduce it’s dependency on petroleum. Perhaps even more impressive? The document was signed by 10,000 kids—and even further backed by 40,000 more online signatures!

In addition to his inspiring declaration, Loorz has launched Kids Vs. Global Warming, a website that seeks to educate youth about the issue of climate change and empower them to make a difference. Our favorite part of the site? A cool, iPod-inspired list of easy solutions that any kid can take on, like recycling a Sunday newspaper or refusing plastic bottles.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Here’s the latest and greatest of what’s going on in the parent blogosphere. Interested in having your blog featured? Let us know in the comments!

• Our first featured dad blog! Why My Hair Don’t Grow No More‘s two-year-old plays a silly trick.
• Louloupink shares her ten favorite resources for nontoxic family living.
• Has your kid recently outgrown an old pair of shoes? BusyMom knows a great way to get rid of them.
• So much fun! Make and Takes transforms an ordinary plastic bowling set into a Thanksgiving turkey bowl.
• EnviroMom finds a new use for an old filing cabinet.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Despite the best efforts of many eco-conscious individuals, families, organizations, and businesses, a new report by the Global Carbon Project says global emissions have jumped 20% in the last decade. Yikes! According to the study, one of the biggest continued contributors to the increase of CO2 in our atmosphere is developing nations, whose emissions percentages rise each year. (That doesn’t say developed nations in North America and western Europe are blame-free, though—their already-high CO2 levels have simply remained stable rather than decline.)

If you’ve been working hard to do it’s part in the fight against global warming, the study’s findings might feel discouraging. After all, if your family’s lifestyle changes—like making sure to recycle everything, eating less meat, or keeping the thermostat cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer–don’t seem to be making a difference, why bother? In fact, because the only way progress has ever been achieved in society is through persistence.

Instead of declaring the war on climate change un-winnable, take the opportunity to serve as an example and keep doing what you’re doing (and maybe consider even doing a little more!). The eventual result? A healthier world for our children and grandchildren.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

In case you haven’t noticed, recycling is on the rise. In fact, the last twenty years have seen recycling programs spike in numbers from 1,000 to 10,000 in the United States alone! While we should pat ourselves on the backs for striving to keep more plastic, glass, paper, and aluminum out of landfills, we should also recognize that there’s more work to be done.

Enter America Recycles Day, an event seeking to spread awareness about why the eco-friendly practice is important—and how everyone can pitch in to do their part. Want to participate? Great! There’s plenty of ways to show your support, like attending a local America Recycles Day event, filling out a recycling pledge form, or simply letting others in your community know how they can recycle.

To learn more, check out americarecyclesday.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI staff writer

Unless you or your kid are in danger of being stung by one, you probably don’t care about bees all that much—but you should. Why? Since 2006, farmers and scientists have noticed huge disappearances of honeybee colonies in North America, Europe, and even Taiwan. And since bees play such an important role in the ecosystem (in addition to producing honey, they’re also responsible for pollinating many of our crops), colony collapse disorder (CCD) is significant.

Fortunately, Haagen-Dazs is working to make a difference. In the last two years, the ice cream maker (who relies on honeybees for many of it’s all-natural ingredients), has donated more than $500,000 towards solving the problem of CCD. And this week, they want to give even more. For every tweet made before midnight tomorrow that includes #HelpHoneyBees, Haagen-Dazs will donate $1 to CCD research that’s being performed at the University of California at Davis (donations are capped at $1,000 per day). Want to help? Get tweeting!

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Calling all 4th, 5th, and 6th graders! The Disney Planet Challenge is inviting classrooms and student environmental groups to learn more about science, conservation, and teamwork by creating an eco-conscious project portfolio. Register by December 18th at http://disney.go.com/PlanetChallenge, and submit your team’s portfolio by February 26th, 2010—then, the project will be evaluated according to it’s environmental relevance, community involvement, originality, and sustainability. Looking for some inspiration? The Disney Planet Challenge website features plenty of free eco-centric lesson plans and resources, plus examples of past portfolios.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

We recently talked to the Department of Homeland Security, and heard some really useful things about how families can be prepared if something scary should happen. For the next few days, we’ll be sharing the important information that parents need to know.

We’ve already discussed how families can be prepared by putting together an emergency kit and creating a family emergency plan. The final step? Be informed. By learning about the types of emergencies that could happen in your community, your family will better be able to prepare for one if it occurs. Additionally, you can find out what plans already exist at your place of work and your child’s school or daycare (and if there isn’t a plan, you can help put one into place!)

Other things you can do? Learn basic first aid or CPR skills (find classes at your local Red Cross)—and if your kid is old enough, have her learn, too. Another option to consider is to subscribe to local text message alert services, which can quickly and easily inform you of an emergency situation.

Want to find if your family is ready for an emergency? Check out whatsyourrq.org.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

We recently talked to the Department of Homeland Security, and heard some really useful things about how families can be prepared if something scary should happen. For the next few days, we’ll be sharing the important information that parents need to know.

After you’ve put together an emergency kit, the next step is to create a plan. In the event of an emergency, the most important thing is for family members to be able to contact each other and meet in a safe place. First, consider designating an out-of-town contact person that can communicate between separated family members (should something happen in your area, it may be easier to call long distance than across town, putting the contact person in a helpful center point for all of your family members). Then, make sure all family members have the out-of-town contact’s phone number, as well as a working cell phone or phone card with which to make calls. If your child is very young, you may want to practice with her the way to use a phone or phone card, plus make sure she knows how to use text messaging (texts may be more likely than calls to go through in an emergency, since phone lines could be tied up).

For more details about creating an emergency plan for your family, visit http://ready.adcouncil.org/beprepared/fep/index.jsp.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

We recently talked to the Department of Homeland Security, and heard some really useful things about how families can be prepared if something scary should happen. For the next few days, we’ll be sharing the important information that parents need to know.

“There’s no question that prepared parents are key to building a prepared nation.  DHS recognizes mothers and parents as key partners in our mission, and we are committed to providing the resources and information needed to help them be informed and prepared for all types of emergencies,” says department spokesperson Matt Chandler.

The first thing parents can do? Create an emergency kit. This should include basic items like water, non-perishable food (a 3-day supply is probably enough), batteries, a flashlight, first aid kit, and a battery-powered radio. Other items to consider adding could include copies of important family documents, cash, sleeping bags or blankets, extra clothing, personal hygiene items, and food for your pet. Finally, after taking care of the essentials, be sure to consider any unique needs that can also be added to the kit: Does anyone in your family take prescription medication, for instance? Does someone wear glasses or contact lenses?

For more details about creating an emergency kit for your family, visit www.ready.gov/america/getakit/.

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

Our friends at HAPPYBABY have been chosen as one of three finalists (and the only woman-owned company!)  in the Shine A Light contest sponsored by Amex and NBC Universal.  HAPPYBABY was nominated for pioneering healthy, eco-friendly foods for babies and toddlers, plus their commitment to customer service, and their dedication to improving local and global communities everywhere through education. What’s more, their partnership with the heroic non-profit, Project Peanut Butter, enables each product sold by HAPPYBABY to feed a starving child in Africa for an entire day.

A vote for HAPPYBABY as the Shine A Light winner is a vote for healthy and happy babies everywhere. To learn more information and cast your ballot, click here.

We’re not sure whether it’s the economy, a greater interest in eco-conscious living, or both, but the popularity of swapping has grown by leaps and bounds over the last few years. Exchanging clothes, books, toys, and other goods with friends, family, or other community members is a great way to save money and reduce consumption, but specialty swapping sites are where you’re likely to find the biggest selection. Some of our favorites:

• Bookmooch.com. If the library doesn’t have the book you or your kid is looking for, try this site, which allows users to browse through tons of books that other people want to get rid of. You can also use the site to clear off some space on your bookshelf, too, by listing titles your family wants to give away.
• Dignswap.com. This site bills itself as a clothes swap mecca for fashionistas–so there’s tons of clothes, shoes, and accessories for women. But there’s also plenty of kids clothes and accessories, too!
• Toystotrade.com. We’re thinking the name of this site might be a misnomer, because there’s more here than just toys. Toys to Trade also helps families share cribs, strollers, and even movies.
• Swapitgreen.com. Swap it Green is an online, point-based yard sale. Users earn points for offering up goods ranging from watches to CDs, and spend points to grab up items from other people.

Have a favorite swapping site? Share it with us in the comments!

-Marygrace, KIWI staffer

As part of our recognition of Organic Harvest Month, KIWI is celebrating pioneers of the organic movement by sharing their inspiring stories, plus their thoughts on healthy, sustainable food.

Annie’s Homegrown

In 1989, Annie Whithey, a mom of 2, set out to create a healthier version of mac and cheese, one that was free of artificial additives, preservatives, and colors. Along the way, she founded the company that bears her name—and does so much more than make dinner and snack time healthier.

From its early days making just mac and chees, Annie’s Homegrown has sought to be “a socially responsible business that gave back to the community and did things in an unconventional way—all-natural, and with a commitment to the environment,” says Annie’s CEO John Foraker, who works at the forefront, receiving product ideas and feedback from Annie at her Connecticut farmhouse. “Annie’s was built to be everything mainstream companies weren’t. Whatever Kraft would do, Annie’s would work to do the opposite.”

[Read more →]

Even with all the talk about organic gardens and farmers markets, we didn’t see this one coming! The White House will undergo a number of renovations to improve waste and energy efficiency in an effort to become LEED-certified. Think the building is way too old to be renovated? Not so, says Rick Fedrizzi, CEO and President of the U.S. Green Building Council, who says that “LEED certification of the White House is absolutely possible and viable.”

Upcoming changes to the building will include:

• Implementing computerized energy management systems
• Automatic light sensors that turn off when a room is empty
• Low flow water valves
• Paints and sealers with low or no VOCs
• Window films to lower UV rays and save energy

Read more at Sierra Club Green Home.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

Last month, we discussed the importance of water conservation, plus a way for families to determine if they might be using too much water. If you took the water footprint test and found your result to be less than desirable, don’t worry! The online magazine, GOOD, has created a handy chart that shows there are plenty of tiny changes you can make that have the potential to add up to big water savings, resulting in a greener planet and a lower water bill. Some of our favorites?

• You’ll save up to 16 gallons of water by using a dishwasher instead of hand-washing dishes. (You’ll also save some time cleaning up after a meal, and save your hands from feeling too dry!)
• You’ll save about 33 gallons of water by nixing soda for…a glass of water! (You’ll also create less trash, save money on grocery bills, and save on the headache from dealing with kids on a sugar rush!)
• You’ll save about 600 gallons of water by serving salad for dinner instead of hamburgers. (You’ll also save money on grocery bills and get your family to eat a ton of vitamins and nutrients!)

How does your family save water? Let us know in the comments!

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

As part of our recognition of Organic Harvest Month, KIWI is celebrating pioneers of the organic movement by sharing their inspiring stories, plus their thoughts on healthy, sustainable food.

Seeds of Change

If you’ve ever bitten into a perfectly ripe, heirloom tomato that was so delicious you wondered who to thank for it, here’s your answer: Seeds of Change. Since its inception in 1989, the company has been driven by a singular mission: To promote biodiversity and sustainable, organic agriculture.

[Read more →]

Throughout September, we’re showing our support for healthy, organic food. Here are 9 fun ways for you to join in!

1. Visit one of the many natural and organic food festivals and fairs that are occurring across the country this month.
2. Support the Organic Consumers Association by writing a letter to your local paper spreading the word about the importance of organic farming and organic foods.
3. Host a potluck dinner for your family and friends using seasonal, organic foods.
4. Take organics beyond the kitchen and seek out organic pet food, personal care products, clothing, and cleaning supplies.
5. Learn more about what goes into your food before it hits the table by reading books that discuss the importance of natural, organic foods. Try Michael Pollan’s In Defense of Food or, for kids, Ready, Set, Go Organic! by Kelley Ann Lovelace.
6. Each week, sample a different organic chocolate bar with your family. At the end of the month, decide which one you liked best!
7. Show support for the organic movement by volunteering or donating to a local organic gardening program.
8. Help kids have fun while they learn about the importance of organics with the “Help Us Grow the Organic Harvest” coloring book from the Organic Trade Association. Call the OTA at 413-774-7511 to place an order.
9. Let others know about Organic Harvest Month by bringing an organic treat to your workplace, place of worship, book club, or your child’s classroom. Take an organic fruit and cheese plate or homemade baked good made with organic ingredients.

For more about the importance of organics, plus recipes, shopping tips, and more, check out kiwimagonline.com/harvest.

Publix has just made shopping for healthy products a little easier. The grocery chain recently created a shelf tag system for many store-brand and national items that denotes whether or not a product is organic, made with organic ingredients, or natural/earth-friendly.

Seeking to simplify your shopping experience, the program was designed to allow consumers to determine whether or not a product fits their needs simply by glancing at the tag, rather than having to decipher labels, ingredients, or marketing claims. Organic products must contain at least 95% organic ingredients, while products made with organic ingredients must be 70%-94% organic. Natural or earth-friendly products are those that have been minimally-processed and manufactured in an environmentally-friendly way, and contain no natural ingredients.

To learn more about the system, plus see what the tags look like, check out Publix.com.

-Marygrace, KIWI Staffer

You’d never want to miss your daughter’s role in the school play or your son’s winning touchdown on Friday night football, right? Why not re-live these special moments while helping out the environment at the same time by greening your photography. Some tips to please your family photo album and the planet:

• Use rechargeable batteries. Digital cameras go through batteries quicker than you might expect. Fortunately, many models are switching to  rechargeable batteries. Not quite in the market for a new camera? Try Sanyo eneloop Rechargeable Batteries, which come pre-charged and can be used up to a 1,000 times.

• Be picky with your prints. Kids do grow up too fast–but do we really need a photo with closed eyes or with a blurry blob of a dog? Instead of printing the less-than-stellar prints, share all your photos on websites like Flickr or Picasa Web Albums and upload all the photos you want. Both websites allow you to email friends and family your photo albums, where they can pick out their favorite pics to print.

• Recycle old equipment. Want to upgrade to a better camera? Sell your old one on Ebay or donate old printers, cameras or scanners to a local school or church. Many recycle centers also have drop boxes for electronics for proper disposal.

• Use recycled photo paper. One of the biggest problems is that most of the photo paper available is non-recyclable. Post-consumer recycled paper is becoming more widely available. Try GreenPix by Red River paper in photo matte finish.

-Liz, KIWI Intern