Ok. We are not talking putting placenta or urine on your face, here. But there are some pretty strange cosmetic ingredients out there. Find out which are worth it and where to save your hard earned cash.

Some women (and men, for that matter) would do almost anything to stay young looking and gorgeous. But how far down on the weird ingredient scale are you willing to go for great skin?

5 Weird (but Wonderful) Cosmetic Ingredients for Healthy Skin

1. Charcoal: Not new to the beauty scene, but some may still have trouble seeing it as part of their skincare routine. Activated charcoal (charcoal infused with oxygen) is the type used in skincare. It is super absorbent and very good at drawing impurities out of the skin, making it an ideal choice for those dealing with acne. It also tightens skin and reduces inflammation, which is why you’ll see it in anti-aging products. Osmia Organics Detox Exfoliating Mask, One Love Organics The Cleansing Sponge: Bamboo Charcoal Heart, May Lindstrom Skin The Problem Solver

2. Fermented ingredients: Yes, probiotics are all the rage right about now. And for good reason. They tone down inflammation and have antibacterial properties. They’ve also been shown to create a barrier on skin that blocks dirt and bacteria, helping to prevent breakouts. Obvi, these ingredients are great for acne and premature aging. The Beauty Chef Probiotic Skin Refiner, One Love Organics Oh Mega Calming Chia Oil, Marie Veronique Redness Relief Serum, Marie Veronique Pre + Probiotic Daily Mist

3. Bamboo: Why on earth would you ever need bamboo in cosmetics? Bamboo extract and powder are ultra-absorbent, and often added to natural deodorants and facial powders to help soak up wetness. These fibers also work in haircare to help pump up the volume. Briogeo Hair Care Be Gentle, Be Kind Sulfate Free Shampoo, One Love Organics Healthy Locks Dry Shampoo Powder, ILIA Beauty Fade Into You Finishing Powder

4. Dead Sea Mud: Mud is just mud, right? Nope. Mud from the Dead Sea is high in minerals and vital nutrients that carry oxygen to skin cells, improving tone and elasticity, promoting a youthful appearance. It is also excellent for drawing toxins out of the skin, and calms acne and other irritated skin conditions. Osmia Organics Black Clay Facial Soap, B Leaf Botanics Revive Dead Sea Mud Mask

5. Salt: We may use it most days, but on our skin? Yep. Sea salt is rejuvenating, toning down inflammation and softening dry or rough skin. It is also another skin detoxifier and boosts circulation, boosting glow factor. Aster & Bay Bathing Salts Clary Sage + Grapefruit, Earth Tu Face Dead Sea Salt Scrub, Earth Tu Face Rosemary + Salt Lotion

*Disclaimer: Help support EcoSalon! Our site is dedicated to helping people live a conscious lifestyle. We’ve provided some affiliate links above in case you wish to purchase any of these products.

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The post 5 Weird Cosmetic Ingredients That Actually Work appeared first on EcoSalon.

Thinking about new flooring, but don’t know where to start? Check out our suggestions for 5 super sustainable, eco-friendly flooring materials for your home.

I think we can all agree that less is more when it comes to post-consumer waste. And the types of materials we choose during our endeavors are equally as important. Fortunately, we have several viable options for you to keep in mind when planning your next flooring project.

Whether it’s a natural, earthy look you’re trying to achieve, or a sophisticated and polished appearance, there’s sure to be something that fits your décor and your lifestyle – children and pets included.

1, Reclaimed Wood Flooring

Obtained from a variety of sources, reclaimed wood is as unique as the location from which it comes. Some may come from structural beams and timbers of old warehouses and factories, while other reclaimed floor materials are salvaged from tongue and groove planks that were also once used as flooring (similar to the flooring depicted in the image above from Eco Friendly Flooring). Reclaimed wood spares the destruction of perfectly good forests, is durable, and beautiful.

Never fear, if you’re not into the reclaimed look, then check out wood flooring that’s sustainably harvested and is Forest Stewardship Council certified instead.

2. Cork Flooring

When harvested correctly, cork flooring is created by peeling away the bark every 9 to 12 years while keeping the tree alive, rather than sacrificing it. Cork naturally absorbs sound, thanks to its millions of air-filled pockets, and feels soft beneath your feet.

It’s dent resistant, although it does have the propensity to show scratches, and is much more durable than many might believe. Cork trees are thought to store carbon in order to regenerate their bark, and the less they are harvested the more the carbon they absorb.

The particular cork flooring shown above from Duro Design is actually composed of 100 percent post-industrial recycled content from wine-stopper production.

3. Bamboo Flooring

Not all bamboo flooring is created equal. It’s important to trust the manufacturer’s claims before purchasing, but once you’re sure of that, then you should have no problem enjoying the benefits and beauty of bamboo flooring, especially when choosing a company like Green Building Supply. Bamboo is said to be strongest when it has reached the 5 to 7 year maturity mark and is lauded for its rapid regrowth, unlike traditional forests that take years upon years to reach maturity.

Bamboo flooring is crafted from individual strands or strips that are glued together to form planks in a variety of colors and styles. Because some adhesives can be toxic, be sure the seller uses glue with no added urea formaldehyde or a water-based adhesive. Woven or strand-woven engineered bamboo is believed to be the most environmentally friendly and strongest of the three because it uses the least amount of glue and the blending of woods that goes into the engineering process.

4. Linoleum Flooring

Believe it or not, linoleum is a very sustainable choice in floor coverings. It’s made from linseed oil, which comes from the flax plant, along with resins, limestone, powdered cork, and recycled wood flour. Non-toxic color pigments are added and jute backing is used for sheet floors. Linoleum is comprised of approximately 36 percent of rapidly renewable materials and 35 percent recycled materials.

Linoleum can last for up to 40 years and is naturally anti-bacterial and biodegradable. The multitude of available colors permeates the material, therefore allowing you to buff out stains or scratches. Check out the marmoleum (linoleum) available on the Forbo website – it has a great selection and inspiration gallery.

5. Recycled Tile

Recycled clay, cement, and stone tiles, like those found on the Eco Friendly Flooring website, will add charm and character to any space. These are sourced from reclaimed glazed brick slices, recycled cement hexagons, and even upcycled roofing slates. This is a great option for a one-of-a-kind floor with a natural appeal that’s also good for the environment. Check out the recycled rubber tiles for a unique and colorful flair while you’re over there taking a peek.

Now that you’ve gotten the scoop on 5 great eco-friendly flooring materials for your home, we want to know what you think. Do you have a favorite pick from our list? What are some of your favorite eco-friendly flooring materials? Let us know when you stop by the EcoSalon Facebook page!

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Image of Chair on Wood Floor via Green Building Supply

The post 5 Eco-Friendly Flooring Materials for Your Home appeared first on EcoSalon.

Looking for kitchen ideas to make the center of your home the best it can be?

When it comes to the kitchen, it’s not just the food you choose to buy that counts; the kitchen itself can carry a heavy carbon footprint, from the appliances you use to the materials of which the kitchen is made. Check out these simple kitchen ideas that can revamp your kitchen with low-impact style and sensibility.

1. Non-Toxic Cookware

Non-stick cookware poses potential health risks, so be sure to replace any Teflon-coated cookware with ceramic-coated cookware. Ceramic coating prevents food from sticking to the plans and can stay stable at high temperatures, which means it will not smoke or fume to transfer toxins to your food.

Cuisinart’s Green Gourmet Cookware uses ceramic-based non-stick technology and is designed to conduct heat better. It is also made from 70 percent recycled materials and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Other worthy brands are Bialetti Aeternum, whose cookware is made of titanium and micro-particles of suspended silicate (main ingredient in glass); Original GreenPan, which features Thermolon non-stick technology that can withstand temperatures as high as 850 degrees Fahrenheit without emitting toxic fumes; Ozeri Green Earth Smooth Ceramic Cookware, made of German-engineered Greblon ceramic that is free of PTFE and PFOA; and ScanPan Professional Pans, which features a Green Tek non-stick surface and ceramic titanium coating that’s free of PFOA and PFOS.

2. Bamboo or Acacia Utensils

Bamboo or acacia kitchen utensils are becoming increasingly more popular in the kitchen. Wooden utensils are overall economical and lasting. They are delicate and less abrasive than plastic or metal utensils and offer a more home-like feel to the kitchen environment. Bamboo and acacia are highly-renewable. They grow and regenerate themselves quickly and can be harvested every 3-7 years as opposed to soft-woods, which take up to 20 years. They are also far more durable than other woods. Check out bamboo and acacia kitchen utensils and make the switch.

3. Countertops

There are a variety of options for eco-friendly kitchen countertops – it all depends on your taste. IceStone is the most popular recycled kitchen surface and is made of three core ingredients: 100 percent recycled glass, Portland cement, and pigment. It is safe and durable as well as comes in a variety of colors. Eco by Cosentino is 75 percent postindustrial or post-consumer materials. It has a nonporous surface and requires no sealant. Caesarstone offers a lifetime warranty to its residential customers. It is a nonporous surface and has a Greenguard certification. Teragren produces bamboo surfaces, which is a highly-renewable option and something that will stand the test of time. PaperStone Products makes a 100 percent post-consumer paper surface that is fused with petroleum-free resin extracted from cashew liquids. Coverings Etc. offers a 100 percent recycled glass surface material. Each shade signifies a single waste stream. What started as a graduate school project on sustainable design led to  Tiger Mountain Innovations and its Squak Mountain Stone, hand-cast slabs made from recycled paper and glass bound with low-carbon element.

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The post 3 Kitchen Ideas to Make it More Gorgeous, Efficient and Eco-Friendly appeared first on EcoSalon.

Bambu’s newest line of cork fabric home and lifestyle products deliver a natural flair with a smaller carbon footprint.

Ok, let’s clear a couple of things up right away. This post is about a company called Bambu. Yes, they’ve made a name for themselves with handcrafted plates and utensils made from earth-friendly bamboo. But that’s not what this post is about.

Recently Bambu branched out into cork, another uber sustainable material that’s long been relegated to wine bottles and bulletin boards. They offered me a chance to take a couple of items from this new line for a test-drive, and, always on the lookout for responsible companies willing to buck the status quo, I jumped on it. Here’s what I discovered.

Soft, Flexible Cork

If the only cork you’ve encountered is shaped like, um, a cork, or riddled with thumb-tacks this may come as a surprise: cork doesn’t have to be rigid. All of the Bambu cork products I sampled were incredibly soft and flexible, especially the placemat and coasters. Hand constructed and backed with black cotton and contrast stitching, both items are naturally water and stain resistant. Which means (drum roll please…) you can throw them in the washing machine! Cork fabric is also dust and dirt-repellent, and inherently anti-bacterial and hypoallergenic.

Simple, Durable Design

If there’s one thing I hate, it’s “sustainable” products that are so high-priced or delicate that you’re scared to use them in your actual life. What good is a hand-crafted, artisinal anything if you’re constantly terrified of ruining it? This was absolutely not the case with Bambu cork fabric products. The slim wallet instantly caught the attention of my boyfriend, who noted its simplistic design and the fact that it would take up so little room in his back pocket. (Drawbacks he noted included the lack of a billfold portion and the rather large brushed-brass clasp element. Could be painful if you sit on it wrong).

Meanwhile, I’ve spent the last week or so playing around with the Adjust-A-Bowl, which has taken up permanent residence in the center of our dining room table. The silky, durable cork fabric is very pliable, allowing you to shape it, fold it, or even roll its edges to modify its size. So far, ours has held keys, mail, and a chubby orange cat who loves to snooze in baskets.

Responsible Manufacturing

I am constantly disappointed by how many “responsible” products are made in China to take advantage of cheap labor. Who cares whether or not your product is green when the people making it are treated like slaves? One of the most impressive things about Bambu is how they’re working to change this.

With roots in Portland, Oregon, the company is headquartered in Shanghai, China. Not only are Bambu’s production workshop, partnering facilities, raw-materials sources there, however, but the company’s founders re-located there as well. They live alongside the woodworkers, weavers and stitchers that make their products. “We make strides to further our commitment to 3rd-party certification and testing, promote fair labor practices and safe working conditions, and green our supply chain.” The company is a member of Green America and its Green Business Network, and manufactures using organic sources certified by IMO Switzerland. A selection of Bambu’s products are USDA Biobased-certified.

Images: Bambu

The post Sustainable Cork Fabric Home Accessories By Bambu appeared first on EcoSalon.

Beautifully biodegradable, this bamboo duo is an eco-conscious upgrade for your desktop.

Plastic-not-so-fantastic. This bamboo keyboard and mouse is marvelously sustainable, recyclable, naturally lightweight, tough and water-resistant.

It also looks damn cool. With emission-free production and no waste, its smooth, warm texture and lovely grain make these über-green accessories seriously strokeable.

Made by US company Impecca, the keyboard connects via USB port and is compatible with most Windows systems (2000/XP/Vista/7) as well as Mac, and costs $79.95 (the wireless combo is $99.95), and comes in four colors. Computer not included.

The post A Hand-Carved Bamboo Duo: Impecca’s Keyboard & Mouse appeared first on EcoSalon.

Pack the perfect picnic. 

If you are not reading this from a mobile device on a patch of green under a fresh spring sky, get yourself outside. And take this perfect picnic basket with you.

This handwoven basket, made from 100% all-natural and renewable resources, is luxuriously practical. It will coordinate well with a peplum detail and ankle length pant. Plus, it comes with it’s own cutlery, wine glasses and cutting board, perfection for a block of artisan cheese and delicate bottle of red.

The post Lustable: The Perfect Picnic Basket appeared first on EcoSalon.

Zero + Maria Cornejo fuses a punk vibe with tailored appeal for Fall/Winter 2012.

Zero+Maria Cornejo’s Fall/Winter 2012 runway show at Milk Studios drew a star-studded crowd including the likes of jewelry designer and actor Waris Ahluwalia and model and actress Shalom Harlow. The Chilean-born designer’s collection harbored shapes, textures, and hues to inspire cozy hibernatory thoughts, yet blasts of citrusy neon, brilliant cobalts, and vivid lavender and turquoise silks revealed its nonchalant fierce edge. Consciously choosing not to use fur, Cornejo integrated llama, shearlings, merino wools, and alpaca to fill the void. The addition of bamboos and silks gave the collection a lovely and exceptionally feminine flow.

Now an American citizen, Maria Cornejo built this collection upon nostalgic thoughts of the past and reimaginings of the meaning of identity. Cornejo says, “I always find myself pulling from my past to create the future.”

Inspirations rooted in everyday occurrences bring further life to Cornejo’s curious digital prints. Ranging from an iPhone photo of a graphic still, a silent movie pixelated onto silk, to Cornejo’s son’s reflection in a Hydra swimming pool evolved into an evil eye print to protect and bring good energy. The creative process behind Zero+Maria Cornejo is profoundly distinct.

In contrast to Cornejo’s digital prints and modern lines, she concurrently infused the collection with natural, grounded pieces: hand knits from a women’s cooperative in Bolivia, superfine Suri alpaca coats, and bamboo knit basics to remind us of the core necessities and their connection to the earth.

Cornejo’s juxtaposition of modern and classic, innovative and traditional, as well as comfort and chic breathes fresh air into the upcoming autumn season for womenswear. Via this collection, Zero+Maria Cornejo has awakened the feminine within, while maintaining comfort and ease rooted in a peaceful balance between opposing aesthetics.

Photographs by Monica Feudi/Courtesy of Zero + Maria Cornejo

The post EcoSalon at NYFW: Zero + Maria Cornejo appeared first on EcoSalon.

Fact: It takes over 1,800 gallons of water to grow enough cotton to make 1 pair of jeans, and over 400 gallons of water to make one t-shirt.

The water crisis conversation is growing exponentially. Fears of losing access to potable water face a growing number of people across the globe. In fact, it’s expected that two-thirds of the world’s people will run short of fresh drinking H20 by 2025. So, in just over a decade, it’s possible that 75% of the globe’s population might not have access to clean drinking water. What does fashion have to do with this? A lot.

As a $450 billion global industry, only half of 1% of those garments are created in a way that attempts to respect people and the environment. When the majority of the garment industry production happening in an “unsustainable” way, their unfortunate use of dirty chemicals is leading to toxic runoff that flows into rivers, lakes, and streams and diminishes the world’s fresh water.

In textile production, the dyeing and finishing stages typically require high water and chemical use. According to Global Action Through Fashion, the majority of compounds used for applying color are highly carcinogenic or otherwise toxic, and those chemicals generally are discharged into nearby waterways. Brooklyn, New York was a hub for textile manufacturing and dying back in the 1920s and 30s. Josh Verlean, Staff Attorney and Chief Investigator for Riverkeeper tells EcoSalon that before the Clean Water Act amendments of 1977, the colors of the Hudson River were often stained by automobile dyes or textile dyeing; the water would reflect the colors that specific dye houses were processing that day. Much of the dyeing process for larger companies has now moved overseas, but that doesn’t mean it has disappeared.

Outsourcing expands into cotton production as well. According to the Environmental Justice Foundation, about 44 per cent of the world’s water use for cotton growth and processing is not serving the domestic market but instead, is being soaked up for export. And cotton – the fabric of our lives – is responsible for a large dent of the garment industry’s water waste. It takes over 1,800 gallons of water to grow enough cotton to make 1 pair of jeans, and it takes over 400 gallons of water to make one t-shirt.

Fashion is interrupting the natural current of the world’s most vital resource. So, what’s it going to take to ensure that the fashion industry stops contributing to this daunting reality, and who are the superstars in the fashion industry that are working to conserve, protect, and keep the fresh water flowing?

Costello Tagliapietra Spring/Summer 2012

AirDye Solutions has tackled the issue in a tech-savvy and action-based way. AirDye technology allows for the application of color to fabric without the use of water. It ends up using about 90% less water and 85% less energy than conventional dyeing processes. Standout designers like Costello Tagliapietra have been using this innovative and water conserving technology for the past several seasons. When asked if they notice a difference between using AirDye and conventional dying techniques, Jeffrey Costello and Robert Tagliapietra say “Absolutely.”

“We have the amazing opportunity to have the backside of the fabric look just as beautiful as the front, something that is not possible with traditional dyeing; we are even doing prints on both sides in some pieces.”

With luxe collections packed with color and mesmerizing prints, Costello Tagliapietra is definitely not sacrificing style for ethics, which has interested more designers to jumping onboard the AirDye train thanks to their lead.

Another brand, BluDemocracy, has tackled the agua quandary head-on by replacing cotton with bamboo in the production of all of their everyday basics. The LA-based company claims that to make a cotton t-shirt, it takes 11,500 cups of water, whereas to produce a bamboo tee, it only takes 3,840 cups. By producing and processing their bamboo collection sustainably, Blu Democracy hopes to make a dent in this overwhelming statistic: 1 billion people worldwide don’t have access to clean water…right now.

Blu Democracy’s representative Walka Quiroa tells EcoSalon there are ways to instigate change by sharing “in your face knowledge about the extreme lack of clean drinking water around the world, along with spreading simple ways individuals and companies can make positive change to these frightening statistics.”

Massive transformations in our daily lifestyles are not required, according to Quiroa, but rather, creating awareness around products that are good for the earth is the first tread. As Quiroa tells EcoSalon, “Knowledge inspires change.”

BluDemocracy bamboo tees

How important is water? We humans are comprised of 65% of it, and 75% of the earth’s surface is covered with the stuff. We need it, plants need it, animals need it – where did the disconnect evolve away from such a crucial resource?

In a recent visit to the Minnesota Marine Art Museum, an exhibition titled: “Upon Native Waters: The Photographs of Edward Curtis,” sparked reminders of the basic foundation that water’s worth was built upon. Edward Curtis’ photographs of Native Americans in the early 1900s showcased vividly the ways that water was integral to the everyday lives of people. In these times and through these cultures, a clear connectivity could be observed between water and humanity.

Photograph from “Upon Native Waters: The Photographs of Edward Curtis,” currently at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum

Water didn’t used to flow out of faucets and it never grew on trees. It might be time to take a tip from our elders and remember that water is a valued resource necessary for survival – one to be respected and appreciated.

Image: Nadia Moro

The post Swimming Against the Mainstream Fashion Current appeared first on EcoSalon.

Just in time for holiday shopping and gift giving: The Box is back!

Our exclusive EcoSalon shopping must-have, the curated eco product assortment known as The Box, is back, with the Holiday Food Box. We’re offering $500 worth of holiday eco-goodies for just $99 and these won’t last. That’s a guarantee.

Are you a food lover? Whether you love eating food, cooking it or just talking about it, this box is for you. It’s full of anything a foodie could ever want, from cookware to gourmet goods to shade-grown coffee, so be sure to snag one before they’re gone.

(If you do miss out this time around, our friends at The Daily Meal are hosting a giveaway for the last remaining Food Box standing. Head on over to their site and register to win!)

Just look at what we have in store for you this time around:

Slate Cheese Board

Serve up a round of artisan cheeses on this simple and functional Slate Cheese Board from VivaTerra. Chalk lets you introduce guests to new cheeses with style. And don’t think this board is reserved for cheese only; the modern design makes it the perfect serving platter for everything from charcuterie to chocolate, so get creative!

(Retail value of $69)

Mortar and pestle

Made from 100% organically-grown bamboo, this bamboo mortar and pestle from Core Bamboo will brighten up any kitchen. Now you’ll be able to make handmade pesto, crush mint for your mojitos and grind together fresh herbs for garnish. Unstoppable, mama.

(Retail value of $37.50)

2 pounds of coffee from Coffee CSA

Now that you get your kale, chard and carrots thanks to a C.S.A., why not your coffee? Coffee CSA makes sure that you get the best selection of coffee directly from small-scale farms. No middlemen, just farmers and people like you who love great coffee. You’ll get two pounds of fresh-roasted premium coffee delivered right to your doorstep.

(Retail value of $29.98 – $32.98, depending on the coffee farmer selected.)

Bamboo Bottle Company Reusable Bottle

This isn’t your your mother’s water bottle. With a unique design that uses bamboo and glass, Bamboo Bottle Company has created a bottle that will not only keep you far, far away from disposables, but you can fill it with hot and cold drinks alike, meaning you can go from coffee in the morning to water in the afternoon. The glass interior is removable and dishwasher safe so keeping your bottle clean is easy. Cheers!

(Retail value of $25.00)

Wei of Chocolate

We all know that chocolate makes us feel better, but Wei of Chocolate just might go above and beyond your normal cocoa expectations. Wei Relaxed dark chocolate is organic, fair trade, dairy-free, gluten-free, soy-free, 68% cacao, and enhanced with flower essences that work to calm & relax the mind and help you sleep better at night. Who knew chocolate could do so much?

(Retail value of $11.00)

Night Owl Paper Goods Recipe Card Books

Keep all your recipes in one place with this cute recipe card book from Night Owl Paper Goods. 24 recipe cards printed on a letterpress are held inside a sustainably-harvested birch wood cover, and with a self-standing easel is easy enough to prop up when you’re in the midst of your culinary creations.

(Retail value of $26.00)

D.I.Y. Delicious by Vanessa Barrington

If you follow EcoSalon’s food section, we’re pretty sure you’re fans of homemade food. Cooking from scratch not only puts good food on the table, but it allows you to experiment. EcoSalon’s very own food columnist, Vanessa Barrington, leads the way through the homemade cooking process in her book D.I.Y. Delicious, full of new explorations – ever made yogurt? – and simple solutions to the question, “Can’t I make that myself?”

(Retail value of $24.95)

Recipes Every Man Should Know by Susan Russo

There are just some things men should know how to do. Cooking is certainly one of them. Here’s the perfect gift for your husband/boyfriend/lover/brother/nephew/next door neighbor, because every man should know a thing or two in the kitchen. Penned by one of our favorite food bloggers, Susan Russo, this is the down and dirty guide for ensuring that a man can easily navigate the wide world of food. Fingers crossed you get to reap the benefits!

(Retail value of $9.95)

Zhena’s Gypsy Tea Hazelnut Chai

Making tea is an art, and Zhena’s Gypsy Tea does it well. 100% organic and 100% Fair-Trade certified, this container of 22 sachets of Hazelnut Chai is sure to become your winter favorite. Think of it as a hazelnut torte, turned into a tea. Brew a batch and within minutes your house will be smelling of cinnamon, ginger and vanilla.

(Retail value of $9.95)

Fat Toad Farm Caramel Sauce

If ever there were a sauce you’d want to put on everything, this is it. Made from organic goat’s milk, Fat Toad Farm’s caramel sauce is creamy, rich and flat-out amazing. A family farm, Fat Toad’s 47 milking does are pasture-raised, their milk used for making cheese and caramel, or cajeta. Because this form of caramel is primarily dairy based, it’s creamier and less sweet than standard caramel sauces. Be careful not to down the entire jar on one apple.

(Retail value of $12.00)

Twig Servers

A gorgeously prepped salad should have equally gorgeous serving utensils, and these Twig Servers from VivaTerra are just what you need. Nature-inspired, they’re a chic complement to an organic meal, and their design makes them fit perfectly in your hands. Now it’s just up to you to serve up a mean bowl of greens.

(Retail value of $45)

Innate Gear Doppio

Espresso, wine, whisky; this reusable mug from Innate Gear does it all. Throw it in your bag and you’ll always have something to put your afternoon Americano in, even if you’re on the go. And it’s called a Doppio. Which is just adorable.

(Retail value of $9)

Bambu On the Go Reusable Utensils

Aspenware Compostable Cutlery  

Spring and summer picnics are a ways away, but you’ll be well prepared with two sets of Aspenware compostable cutlery. With four spoons, forks and knives in each set, you’ll be able to outfit an army. Or at least all your eco-friendly friends.

(Retail value of $2.99 per pack)

Full Circle Ring Veggie Brush

Scrub your veggies clean with this Ring Veggie Brush from Full Circle. Made from bamboo and natural and recycled plastic bristles, it’s an ergonomic dream and will also ensure that your veggies have that fresh look even after the supermarket wax has been scraped away.

(Retail value of $4.49)

Architec Mixing Bowls

If you’re cooking organic, shouldn’t your kitchenware be just as environmentally conscious? These stacking mixing bowls from Architec are the perfect plastic alternative. Made from 98% natural and recycled materials, the two, three and four quart set will satisfy all your baking needs. We foresee a delicious batch of chocolate chip cookies already.

(Retail value of $29.99)

Epicurean Cutting Board

Slice and dice in style with this 12″ x 9″ EcoPlastic cutting board from Epicurean. Not only is this board made from recycled poly, but it’s also made in the USA, ensuring you can chop your vegetables with a good conscience.

(Retail value of $19.99)

Lodestar Garlic Olive Oil

If you’re attending any good dinner parties in the next few weeks this Lodestar Farms Garlic Olive Oil from Greenfeet makes the perfect hostess gift. This award winning olive oil is made with sustainably harvested olives in the Sierra Nevada foothills, and can be used for everything from dressings to dipping.

(Retail value of $13.95)

Stainless Steel Robot Tea Infuser

Steep your evening cup of tea in this fun, Stainless Steel Robot Tea Infuser from Greenfeet. The arms and feet move to fit your favorite tea mug. In need of more fun eco-friendly kitchen products? Check out the rest of the Greenfeet site for a wide selection of culinary goods.

(Retail value of $8.95)

Navitas Naturals Power Snacks

Power up with one of these Power Snacks from Navitas Natural. This isn’t your average trail mix; superfoods are the name of the game in these snack mixes, which feature cacao, maca, chia, and camu-camu. Easy to pack, they’re perfect for staying energized while you’re traveling this holiday season. Plus they’re raw and organic, which should please anyone looking for an on-the-go natural boost.

(Retail value of $8.99)

Bird Salt and Pepper Shakers

These whimsical salt and pepper shakers from VivaTerra will bring a smile to any guest at your table. And if you don’t want them for your own home, they make a beautiful gift for any bird lover in your crew.

(Retail value of $25)

To buy:

We’re sorry, this Box edition has sold out! Check out the other available options – they’re pretty fabulous, too.

The post The Holiday Food Box: Because Everyone Loves Food Edition! appeared first on EcoSalon.

Just in time for holiday shopping and gift giving: The Box is back!

Our exclusive EcoSalon shopping must-have, the curated eco product assortment known as The Box, is back. We’re offering $500 worth of holiday eco-goodies for just $99 and these won’t last. That’s a guarantee.

From soy candles to handmade rugs, our Holiday Shelter Box is crammed full of swanky products to bring modern style into your home – with enough cool goodies included to give things away as gifts, too. Featuring full-size gorgeous green goods, hop on this now or miss out!

(If you do miss out this time around – supplies are extremely limited – our friends at Curbly are hosting a giveaway for the last remaining Shelter Box standing. Head on over to their site and register to win!)

Just look at what we have in store for you this time around:

Set of Two Wolfie & The Prints

In the dead of winter, these U-Pick Apples and Fresh Eggs prints from Wolfie & The Sneak will remind you of warm mornings spent perusing farmers’ market. Hang them on your wall, and you’ll instantly brighten your mood. The 5″ x 7″ prints are printed on 8″x 10″ French Paper, 100% post consumer recycled paper, produced in a hydroelectric-powered, family-run paper mill in Michigan. With inks guaranteed to last 98 years under regular glass, you’ll be enjoying your fresh produce for years to come.

(Retail value of $40)

Guerrilla Gardening Seedbomb Kit

Change the world, guerrilla style. That’s the idea behind Seedbomb from Greenaid, and the Guerilla Gardening Gift Set ensures that you have all the tools to make the world a greener place. Know of an unused lot nearby? Throw a few seedbombs in. A barren intersection that could use some foliage? Seedbomb away! The packaging is perfect for your guerilla gardening exploits, complete with a handkerchief and slingshot for ensuring that your 12 seedbombs get launched far and away. Seedbombs are hand-rolled in Culver City, Calif. using local materials, sustainable packaging, and socially responsible labor.

(Retail value of $20)

Stencil1 Bird Stencils

Put a bird on it. Your wall, that is. Make your own decorative aviary with these six bird silhouette stencils from Stencil1. You can stencil any one of the six designs onto cards, shirts, even your furniture; the possibilities are endless. And fun.

(Retail value of $19.99)

Wishbone Paperweight

With a busy social calendar in the month ahead, it’s good to keep a few presents on hand, and this striking paperweight from VivaTerra is the perfect item – and a good reminder to make a wish. You never know when it might come true.

(Retail value of $39)

Wishbone Ornament

Hang your wishes up so everyone can see! An match to the Wishbone Paperweight, or perfectly fine on its own, the Wishbone Ornament brings a little cheer to its owner. The ideal go-to gift for anyone who needs a little pick-my-up this holiday season.

(Retail value of $15)

Music for the Planet by 1% for the Planet

Produced by non-profit 1% For the Planet, Music for the Planet is a collection of 41 songs that supports the environment. The album features exclusive and rare tracks by many well known artists including Josh Ritter, Mason Jennings and Rosie Thomas. All proceeds from the album go to supporting environmental causes, so we won’t be surprised if you love the music so much that you’re inspired to buy another one for a friend.

(Retail value of $9.99)

Crash Candles Soy Candle

Every cozy home needs a few candles burning, especially in the winter months, and these hand-made soy candles from Crash Candles are the perfect option. Poured in a glass tumbler you can use when the wax runs out, the candle features the designs of one of our favorite Scandinavians, Lotta Jansdotter. No not only will you bring a little extra light into your home, but you can be happy knowing that they’re eco-friendly and supporting the work of contemporary artists and designers.

(Retail value of $24)

Klean Kanteen and NAU Stainless Steel Pints

Move over, Mason jars. So last year. Especially if you have a reusable option on hand. Perfect for outdoor picnics, concerts or even a birthday party, these pints ensure that you’ll never have to go disposable again, and unlike many glass versions, these won’t break. This exclusive four-pack of Klean Kanteen pints is discreetly printed with the simple NAU logo and made of 18/8, food-grade stainless steel. Durable, versatile, reusable, and dishwasher safe.

(Retail value of $39)

EcoSystem Journal

A blank journal is a blank slate, waiting to be filled with your thoughts, drawings and lists. These blank ecosystem journals have a flexible cover and are filled with pages of 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Sized at 7 3/8″ x 9 7/8″, you’ll have plenty of space to let your creative spirit fly, or encourage someone else that they do the same.

(Retail value of $18.95)

Paper Culture Gift Certificate

Haven’t gotten to your holiday greetings yet? That’s okay – now you can use this $25 Paper Culture gift certificate to customize your own holiday cards. Already ahead of the game with your cards? Your gift certificate can also be used for any product on the site from personal stationery to bamboo wall art. With a motto of “be modern. be eco” Paper Culture uses exclusively 100% post consumer recycled paper for card and envelope and a portion of all proceeds go towards supporting non-profits that focus on education, family and sustainability.

(Retail value of $25)

Recycled iPhone Re-Case

Any busy girl is sure to put her phone through the ringer, which is why you need to make sure it’s properly protected. The Re-Case from Miniwiz is made from 100% trash (rice farming byproducts and post-consumer thermo-plastics to be exact), though from the sleek design, you’d hardly know it.

(Retail value of $24.95)

Plywerk Gift Certificate

Every time you go on a trip you take your camera. In fact, you’ve taken so many photos by this point, your photographer’s eye is actually getting good. But what do you do with all of those photos? Don’t leave them in the hinterlands of your hard drive, print them so everyone can enjoy your work. The masters at Plywerk mount your photo on eco friendly bamboo, eliminating the need for a glass frame. Their easy-to-use website allows you to upload your photo, choose your size, and almost before you’ve had the time to hit send, you have a gorgeous mounted photo waiting at your door.

(Retail value of $20)

Angel Face Botanicals Aromatherapy Shower Steamer Set

In the midst of holiday parties and planning, any good hostess needs to take some time to herself and recharge. These delicious scented Shower Steamers from Angel Face Botanicals make the perfect hostess gift, a little “thank you” for throwing a dinner or cocktail hour in the busiest season of the year. The sampler set comes with Lavender Mist, Juicy Citrus, Peppermint and Eucalyptus, so you could even divide them among your deserving friends. Or if you’re feeling in need of an energy boost yourself, turn your shower into aromatherapy central and enjoy yourself.

(Retail value of $20)

VivaTerra Flowered Thermos

Your friends will be thrilled when you bring a batch of hot cider along on your winter excursions. This beautiful, double-walled, 34-oz. thermos from VivaTerra is perfect for transporting hot and cold drinks alike and with its floral enamelware design, you’ll be serving in ultra current style.

(Retail value of $55)

Verde Lifestyles’ Bamboo Rug

Bring a little zen into your home. This 2’x3′ dark brown bamboo rug from Verde Lifestyles is beautiful and durable, and with a mixture of earthy wood and red undertones provides an ideal dose of warmth to modern, rustic and contemporary settings. Perfect for welcoming guests in your entryway.

(Retail value of $24.75)

Lucky Bowl

A small bowl that can serve as a nice positive daily reminder. This 3 1/2″ inch ceramic bowl by Paloma’s Nest is handmade in Austin, Texas and is a beautiful little keepsake for any friend whom you feel lucky to have. Each piece is made out of pure white clay and has a matte finish.

(Retail value of $22)

Elephant Plantable Pocket Notebooks

If you’re like us, you have a few notebooks lying around, all full of to-do lists and great ideas. But what do you do when they’re full? If it’s a Plantable Pocket Notebook like these ones from Botanical Paperworks, you can take it right outside and put it in your garden. Filled with plantable paper, come springtime you will see a vibrant collection of wildflowers sprout. Perfect for sticking in your purse and jotting down quick notes, or passing along to the friend who always seems to be coming up with good ideas but never has a place to put them.

(Retail value of $9.95)

Grain Utility Card

This card really can say it all. Designed by Grain, with its word search puzzle the Utility Card contains over 100 different wishes, from Happy Hannukah My Love to Howdy Friend, Happy New Year.

(Retail value of $4)

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