Green Living

Bright, Bold Fall Home Decor by Fair Trade Brand Anchal Project

published on October 20, 2021 by Angela Hamilton
updated on October 22, 2021

Who here loves to decorate for fall but wants to keep things bright and warm for dark days ahead? (Meeeeee.) Our new directory member, Fair Trade brand Anchal Project’s Fall ’21 collection marries cozy and colorful just in time for curling up inside. If you haven’t heard of them, Anchal collaborates with female artisans in Ajmer, India to design and handcraft sustainable home decor and lifestyle products. They’re also a nonprofit organization offering social impact programs such as education and health services on top of sustainable employment for their makers and their local communities.

Patchwork Plaid, Anchal Project’s latest collection, introduces a classic motif deeply inspired by the rich history of Indian madras. It’s meant to provide comfort and familiarity, while fitting in with the modern home. It’s all made of organic cotton and the line ranges from quilts and pillows to accessories and linens.

The multi-check pattern and colorway is definitely up our alley, and I love it matched with mustard and rust tones.

Here it’s paired with cozy pillows from other collections.

Besides the decor, Anchal Project offers the multi-check (and other patchwork motifs for fall) design in this cozy patchwork quilt jacket. If you’ve heard of Anchal you’ve probably seen some of their embroidered apparel, which is always making waves (and often selling out) online and in social media.

Take a look at the collage below for more cozy brights in this collection!

Stripe Canvas Tote Bag / Multi Check Quilt Throw / Cross Stitch Pouch Clutch / Graph Table Runner / Multi Check Throw Pillow / Graph Napkin Set / Small Patchwork Plaid Quilt Throw / Graph Placemat Set

Which piece would you decorate with this fall? Shop on anchalproject.org and be sure to use code ecoclub20 for 20% off!

Thanks to Anchal Project for joining our sustainable shop directory and sponsoring this spotlight post!

5 Ways To Cope With Eco Anxiety

published on October 11, 2021 by Katie Ford-Thomas
updated on October 13, 2021

Feeling stressed, anxious or depressed about the climate crisis? You’re not alone. There have been increasing reports of people who identify as experiencing eco-anxiety.

What is eco-anxiety?

Eco-anxiety is a relatively new phrase that captures the experience of those who are alarmed by the climate crisis, and is often twinned with an overwhelming sense of hopelessness. It’s important to know, however, that it isn’t a recognised mental health disorder. In fact, eco-anxiety is a natural, rational response for those with an awareness and understanding of the environmental issues our beautiful planet is facing. The good news is that there are many ways to counter the effects and fear associated with eco-anxiety and, instead of focusing on the way we feel, can turn your concern into positive action for Earth, and yourself.

5 ways to manage eco-anxiety

applaud yourself for your climate positive actions

When we experience eco-anxiety, it can be easy to put pressure on ourselves as individuals to do more. Instead, why not take a step back and list all the ways that you are contributing to reversing climate change? Individual actions will not solve climate change, and the best hope we have is to find a true balance between Earth’s needs and our modern lives.

change where you get your news

Climate change is a difficult subject for many newsrooms—it’s so easy (and buzz-worthy) to fall into the doom and gloom narrative. However, every day new stories emerge that highlight how hopeful we should be. Positive News and Goodgoodgoodco both focus on good news and Mongabay offers inspirational stories from the frontline of conservation, with a detailed look at the events and innovations that are making a difference.

Some recent happy headlines include:

Daintree Forest, an Australian rainforest that covers almost 400,000 acres and borders the Great Barrier Reef was returned to the Eastern Kuku Yalanji, the original Aboriginal custodians of this land. Alongside the obvious positive of Aboriginal land being returned to rightful ownership, indigenous rights are vital to land conservation and allows for sustainable management of sites. via Nation of Change

More cities are beginning to build their own version of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor’s Mr Trash Wheel. Entirely solar and hydro-powered, this trash interceptor collects waste that flows to him, funnelling the trash into the large ‘mouth’ where it can be sorted for recycling or incinerated to generate electricity. via Good News Network

There was a huge win for the many opposed to the Keystone XL Pipeline as President Biden revoked the US permit that its developers needed this summer, marking one of the first major victories for climate activists against the fossil fuel industry. via The Guardian

enjoy green spaces

Green spaces create positive mental health effects, naturally influencing anxiety levels, including those caused by eco-anxiety. Spending time outdoors gives us time to connect with ourselves and the wider world, and areas given over to a nature are a great way of reminding ourselves that all is not lost.

rethink the way you travel

From holidays to commutes, the way we travel is one of the most tangible changes we can make to improve our carbon footprint. It’s a simple, affordable, and achievable way to make a difference—and feeling a sense of accomplishment can help combat anxiety. For shorter, daily trips, choose walking or cycling. And when you need to go further afield, consider whether the distance would be better travelled by car sharing or train than by flying. When flying is the only option, opt for direct flights as these require less fuel than multi-leg journeys.

find a community that shares your values

With the right support, conversation and shared experiences, your feelings surrounding climate change will be validated and alleviated. From your own loved ones to climate action groups, who better to talk about all the good things you’re doing to lead a more sustainable life? Sharing is caring, and you’ll learn lots more tips on how to ensure your lifestyle is green, manageable, and eco-anxiety-free.

Obviously, community is huge for us content creators, and we hope eco club is a place to become more inspired and hopeful about living sustainably. Sign up for the eco club newsletter to get involved!

9 Handmade Female Art & Decor Finds That Beautifully & Hilariously Celebrate Womanhood

published on October 5, 2021 by Mindy Chung
updated on October 7, 2021

I know that art has always had a subjective element to it—that’s why some contemporary pieces will have one person on their knees and another just scratching their head. And as long as art has been made, there’s always been some tortured artist-type painting naked ladies while patting themselves on the back for getting the left titty *just* right.

To a degree, women have always tried to reclaim the narrative in artistic circles; drawing focus to nature landscapes or depicting scenes where the woman is shown in a position of power, and less as an object. That’s why I love the female-focused art that’s surged in the last decade or so—art that’s about representations of real female figures with curves, and bellies, and stretch marks.

That’s why I’ve rounded up these unique female art and home décor items for you to consider including in your next round of redecorating or upcoming holiday gifting. From vases to candles, these pieces, all offered by small businesses, will fit perfectly as a centerpiece in any home that wants to scream, “women.”

I absolutely adore this Pottery Lodge boob planter. The listing has a variety of color options and boobs that aren’t perky enough to poke an eye out.

This ring holder by Redwood Stoneworks definitely caters to aesthetic more than practicality (how many rings can you really fit with only one finger?) But with the option of adding a ring dish with the hand, this plaster beauty would be perfect “F the Patriarchy” statement at anyone’s front entrance or mantle.

I don’t know who first thought to make candle molds of the female form, but I love the fact that Pretty Honest Candles offers a range of shapes and sizes named after Greek goddesses. Ancient art of the female form has always been addressed as “Venus” and every one of the melting muses in this shop definitely live up to that name.

I know this one may be a bit tongue-in-cheek (pun ABSOLUTELY intended) but when I saw the words “jiggly” and “butt” associated with this candle from Nervous Art Store, I knew someone out there would appreciate this amazing piece of art.

Okay, I know there seems to be a booty-ful reoccurring theme of butts here, but this incense burner is just too good. Jenny Dawn of Stony Point Pottery also does a range of other pieces, i.e. mugs with boobs, but the concept of an incense burner shaped like a butt was just too hilarious for me not to spread the love (and quirky gift idea).

This wire-art hanging by Switzerland-based mirusartworks can be both a wall-piece and a jewelry holder, and really radiates bad b*tch energy.

These female-centered art prints by Constanza Illustrates are refreshingly unique and bold—making them ideal as a stand out piece for that space right above your couch, or in your bedroom.

Gravel and Gold has this excellent lavender shower curtain of minimalistically rendered tatas. They also offer the same print on a range of goods like pillowcases, laundry baskets, and even face masks to make sure you can maximize the cohesivity of your female-inspired living space.

Okay, who here suddenly can’t get enough of metal and wire art? This portrait of a woman with plants from Black Ivy Craft is the perfect modern wall art. And you can choose from gold or black!

Which female-inspired products would you put on display?

Sustainable Houseplant Supplies to Green Your Indoor Jungle

published on September 10, 2021 by Tatyana Thomas
updated on September 7, 2021

Hi! My name is Tatyana (or Tat for short). This is my first plant post, and I am excited to bring you fun plant content! I have about 60+ houseplant in my loft, and my collection continues to grow!

Am I the only one who just can’t stop buying plants? It has gotten to the point that I come home multiple times a week with a new plant child… And all of these new babies need homes, so my next outing is usually the thrift shop to find unique planters. Then, it’s looking online for sustainable houseplant supplies to keep everything fresh and thriving. Here are a few of my top reccs!

From top to bottom, left to right: Blush Ceramic Watering Can from Eco Vibe, Grow with Noot, Den Sustainable Plant Food, Pot of Gold Hanging Planter from Holistic Habitat, Den Sustainable Cactus Soil Mix, Bloomscape Eco Pot Round Pots, Bloom Plant Nutrient, Eucalyptus Hydroponic Planter from Earth Hero, Paper Bag Planter from Uashmama, Plantopedia: The Definitive Guide to Houseplants, Shell on Earth, TECTLE Plant Based Pot, Propagation Gift Set, Whitewash Planters from Bloomist, Peat Free People Tote Bag

Some of my other interests are roller skating, decorating, and thrifting. Like I said, my favorite things to thrift are planters… On any given day, you can find the most unique, and coolest planters, at your local thrift store. There are also tons of eco-friendly accessories that you will love, and your plants will love even more out there. From fertilizer to totes to the cutest plant stands the picks above are sure to make your at-home jungle even more impressive.

Lastly, I know that it’s important to look into the sustainability of your houseplants themselves! Check out this post to learn more about the most eco friendly plants.

What is your must-have plant accessory? Have you tried sustainable houseplant supplies?

Is Palm Oil Bad For You? And Can It Be Sustainable?

published on August 23, 2021 by Mindy Chung
updated on November 2, 2021

With the surging interest in alternative oils in the last few years (hello oil pulling) there’s one that many people still don’t seem to know about. For the most part, that’s by no fault of their own. Palm oil is such a divisive additive that companies have gone as far as implementing alternative names like Etyl palmitate that, let’s be real, most of us are likely to gloss over. So let me, someone who stumbled upon the horrible reality of palm oil one day many moons ago, open this discussion about its benefits, or lack thereof, for the average consumer:

Like any fat-based ingredient, palm oil has its baser benefits. It’s rich in antioxidants, and an excellent source of Vitamin E. In a bid to be as unbiased as possible, I acknowledge that palm oil does have positive features, although most of those are for the businesses that utilize it (it’s as effective in baked goods, for example, than any other vegetable oil, but cheap). And that’s why it’s exploded in popularity as a component in products ranging from shampoo to 95% of your favorite Trader Joe’s snacks. (I’m sorry, it had to be said. As someone who worked there for almost three years, I always felt discomfited by the company’s liberal usage of palm oil in literally EVERYTHING.)

Is Palm Oil Bad For You?

If you’re wondering whether or not palm oil is bad for your health, the most apparent negative attribute is that it is, simply, an oil. That means it’s not only high in saturated fats but can cause health conditions such as elevated cholesterol if consumed in excess over a long period of time…. which is kind of inevitable when it’s in most of the packaged foods we eat.

And while those are two very real worries, if I’m being honest, they’re minute concerns of mine compared to its larger impact. On a macro level, palm oil has far more troublesome implications for us as consumers. Globally, environmentally… We should consider how palm harvesting has expedited deforestation, its implications for our economy, and how it’s personally affecting our wallets.

Can Palm Oil Be Sustainable?

If you’ve been making strides in adopting green living, and know of palm oil and its pervasive presence in U.S. goods, you may have concluded that while you may not be able to avoid it, you could at least choose products sourced ethically—at an upcharge, no doubt. And while that’s an admirable effort, with how the palm oil industry functions, there is no way to guarantee the oil in your favorite ice cream isn’t harming the environment. In fact, studies show that sustainable-certified palm oil farms are actually being decimated faster than their non-certified counterparts. No doubt because our collective zeal for living organically has somehow ironically come back to haunt us e.g. Fiji Water.

As someone who’s grown more economically conscientious over the last few years, palm oil is like the boogeyman: its presence is never far, and it’s exhausting trying to avoid the ingredient entirely. I know how destructive it’s been for the environment, its role in global warming, and how it’s ravaged the orangutan population—and yet it feels like I’m yelling fire in an empty room.

There are so many other real-world problems today that addressing the inescapable presence of palm oil in our consumable goods seems to have fallen to the wayside. And I get it; tackling single use packaging and plastic straws just feels more manageable, and the sense of gratification is far more instantaneous.

At the end of the day, the only person who can decide if palm oil is good or bad for you is yourself. There are so many facets to consider—accessibility, cultural utilization, personal preference, and health considerations—that while the answer may seem obvious to me, it may not be that simple for you. (I mean, it’s near impossible to avoid in packaged foods; if you’re shopping on a budget then boycotting may not even be an option.) Far be it for me to police what you can buy; gatekeeping is a permeating issue within the green community that I’d really rather not be a part of. In all honesty, all I’d like is to spread awareness so that everyone can come to their own educated conclusions.

Do you have a strong stance on palm oil? For those who avoid, share your tips! For those who are just now learning about this ingredient—what should I explore next?

What Is Greenwashing?

published on July 27, 2021 by Katie Ford-Thomas

Brands worldwide are taking significant steps to become more environmentally friendly, but there are still plenty using greenwashing techniques to boost sales. Here’s our guide to understanding what greenwashing is, why it happens—and how you can spot it in the future.

So, what is greenwashing? Greenwashing is a marketing ploy that companies use to appear that they are doing more for the environment than they are. Greenwashing purposely deceives and misleads customers into believing their products are eco-friendly. It makes companies seem environmentally aware, their products conscious, and choices ethical. But scratch a little deeper below the surface, and you’ll discover that their green claims are unfounded.

In some instances, businesses do have environmentally sound policies and practices. But greenwashing uses grandiose claims and gross exaggerations to give the impression brands are greener than they are. They may promote their fully recyclable packaging but fail to mention the toxic, single-use plastic product inside. Greenwashing directs funds to a marketing campaign rather than funding systematic change. It distracts from a company’s unethical and unsustainable practices.

Using natural images like greenery and leaves is a subliminal signal that a product is clean, earth-friendly, and derived from nature. Although packaging might not explicitly state that it’s eco, its packaging is intended to deceive. Using buzzwords such as ‘organic,’ ‘ethical,’ and ‘eco-friendly’ are also misleading as they create an image in the consumer’s mind but carry no legal weight; companies can self-declare they are ethical even when they aren’t.

Unfortunately, most major corporations are guilty of greenwashing. Break Free from Plastic produced a damning report in 2020, listing the worst brands for greenwashing, of which Coca-Cola, Pepsi, and Nestle came out on top.

photo by Nefeli Kavvada.

some examples:

Marketed as pure, natural, untouched by man, Fiji Water was sued in 2011 for greenwashing. They willfully mislead customers into believing they were a carbon-negative company when their carbon footprint was huge: their water comes from a Fijian aquifer, their bottles from China, and their products shipped to 60 countries worldwide.
To appear like they were eliminating single-use plastics from their restaurants, McDonalds’ switched to paper-straws. However, the new ‘eco’ straws weren’t recyclable, while the cups were still made from plastic—an ineffective marketing ruse to distract from the detrimental impact of their single-use plastic pollution.

why is it so easy to fall for greenwashing claims?

As conscious consumers who want to make ethical purchases, it is hard to believe that brands don’t hold the same values in high regard. And yet, all too many put profit over the planet, jumping on the rise in demand for eco-friendly products.

A lot of these so-called ethical products come with a higher price tag. We equate the higher expense with responsible practices, sustainable sourcing, and a fair wage for workers. Consumers are happy to pay more for an ethical product. And here’s where greenwashing brands turn a profit: they charge conscious consumers a premium price to fund their unsustainable practices. Greenwashing also plays into our climate anxiety, convincing us to make purchases that we think are the answer to the environmental crisis but which go on to devastate and destroy our planet.

three ways to avoid greenwashing

Greenwashing is not always immediately apparent, but when you know the signs, you’ll be able to spot it in the future.

Don’t be fooled by green, ‘eco’ packaging. Make sure to check the ingredients list and research any ethical claims companies make.

Avoid ambiguous statements and buzzwords. Genuinely ethical brands are specific on details. (These can usually be found on their websites.) If in doubt, reach out to the companies and see what they say.

Look for industry-standard certifications such as Fair Trade, The Vegan Society, and Organic Content Standards.

Although greenwashing misleads conscious consumers and exploits the planet further—we don’t need to despair just yet! The fact that companies are greenwashing indicates the enormous global demand for sustainable, earth-friendly alternatives. Many companies are stepping up, making ethical changes, putting the planet and people at the heart of their work. Let’s hope that more brands answer the call.

What examples of greenwashing have you come across lately?