Apr
22
This year the buzz around Earth Day seems to be more than just a caffeine-induced vibration because Starbucks is giving away free coffee to travel mug users. Responsible living has become a way of life, covering all aspects of home, health, beauty and even fashion – not to mention transportation, politics….the list goes on. It’s not enough to recycle and compost. It matters where products are made and what materials are used for everything from mattresses to glassware. Solar power, low- or dual-flow toilets, even rammed earth construction are all being used all over the world to reduce household impact on the environment.
Green design has become a large focus for interior designers, decorators, product developers and retailers alike. From using recycled or sustainable products to maintaining an original structure or design element, everyone has an eye on how to be less wasteful and more responsible. Even furniture designers showcasing at the IMM, Milan’s furniture fair, are stepping up to the challenge of designing with alternative elements. Check out Fast Company’s distilled list of the best 3-Rs of the show.
Another source I love to check often is greenbydesign.com. This site has some of the coolest pieces and all have a responsible story. Branch Home also has a great selection of green decor items. For a more news-y approach to behind-the-scenes product development and branding information, the similarly-named site greenerdesign.com can give you the inside scoop on what companies are doing to layer green into their products and processes.
Our Health Editor is giving away tickets on her blog, Healthwise, to Toronto’s Green Living Show, on this Friday, April 24-Sunday, April 26. If you are looking for ways to green your life, or want to find new alternatives to products and services, this show is the place to find it.
In the August issue I’ll have a round-up of my favourite recycled decor items in Editor’s Picks. Green decor is no longer limited to the burlap-granola-beige of the past.
