 | Alternative GiftsGive wisely: Ever find yourself buried in knick-knacks, wrapping paper, and a whole lot of unneeded "stuff" after the holidays or a birthday? These days there are many alternative options when it comes to gift giving that don't add to the clutter, or waste money. Many organizations have gifting options when it comes to donating, in addition to these sites who specialize in the alternative gift market:
What you can do:
| |||||
 | Sustainable AgricultureSupport your local farmers: Sustainable agricultureis a way of raising food that is healthy for consumers, does not harm the environment, is humane for workers and animals, provides fair wages to farmers, and supports rural communities! Find out how you can incorporate sustainable agriculture into your lifestyle.
What you can do:
| |||||
 | Eco-Friendly WeddingsScale down: Weddings in the U.S. have turned into such a commodity that they have even become part of the argument to legalize gay marriage - in order to boost the economy! Unfortunately, all of these weddings create a tremendous amount of waste. From transportation, to flowers, food, decorations, clothing, jewelry and gifts --it's no wonder the average wedding costs almost $30,000. It's worth considering a more eco-friendly way to celebrate the loving union of two people. Check out the links below for environmentally-friendly ideas.
What you can do: Sierra Club: 10 Steps to a Green Wedding
| |||||
 | Protect National ForestsKnow your source: Did you know that the U.S. imported over $450 million worth of timber from Indonesia, where over 75% of the industry is an illegal trade run by a coterie of timber barons selling cheap wood on the international market? Often, the purchases we make have a dire story behind them. Save the Redwoods League Forest Stewardship Council
| |||||
 | Support Fair TradeLook for certification: The best way to ensure your coffee, tea, chocolate and other products are traded fairly, and held to the highest standards when it comes to fair pay, environmental sustainability, and protection of the farmers and their families, is to check for the label! If you don't see this logo (left), that means it's not certified by TransFair, and you could be jeopardizing the well-being of the very people providing your morning pick-me-up.
What you can do: European Fair Trade Association World Fair Trade Organization (formerly IFAT)
| |||||
 | Green at HomeBecome a conscious consumer: According to the folks at greenhome.com, "going green" is a process that can be as simple as changing soaps and as complex as changing your entire lifestyle. If you're thinking about going green, the links below are a great place to start.
What you can do:
| |||||
 | Hybrids, Diesel and GreaseMove forward: Hybrid technology marks a radical change in the type of cars being driven by the American public and are thought to play a significant role in addressing several national problems like climate change, air pollution, and oil dependence. Along with Hybrid technology comes green advancements in diesel fuel and even a movement to start running cars on vegetable grease or by electric motor. Get informed about these alternative ways to power your vehicle:
| |||||
 | Cruelty-Free ProductsLook for the leaping bunny: The sad reality is that most of the products we use in our everyday lives are tested on animals. But there are many responsible companies out there doing their part to ensure animals are not harmed in the making of their products. It can be hard to identify products and companies who don't adhere to ethical standards, so always look for the "leaping bunny" logo to be sure.What you can do: leapingbunny.org
| |||||
 | Vacation ResponsiblyGood habits shouldn't take a vacation just because you do! Although usually much needed and well deserved, it's no secret that vacations can be incredibly wasteful of valuable resources. However, many hotels and vacation packages have made efforts to start conserving where they can, and, in some cases, have turned vacationing into a chance for consumers to give back. Check out these websites that offer volunteer opportunities through eco-tours, charity work, and cultural exchange, that will leave you feeling much more fulfilled than a week of lounging by the pool: What you can do: ResponsibleTravel.com Ecotourism and Sustainable Development: Who Owns Paradise? (Book by Saul Landau)
(Check out this article on Mashable: The Social Media Guide for more ideas on how to give back as a consumer.) | |||||
