House and Senate lawmakers agreed yesterday to permanently ban three types of phthalates from children's toys. They will also outlaw three other phthalates from products after studying their effects in children and pregnant women.
If passed, the ban would take effect in six months- that is unless President Bush vetos it. Many have said that the President opposes the ban, but it is still to early to know what he will decide. Many companies are opposing the ban, arguing that the research against phthalate exposure is not strong enough. The biggest opposition to the ban is Exxon Mobil. They manufacturers diisononyl phthalate which is the most commonly used phthalate in children's toys.
It certainly would not be the first ban of its kind however. The EU and more than a dozen other countries have banned phthalates from children's products as early as 1999. Even major US retailers Wal-Mart, Toys R Us, and Babies R Us that said will no longer carry products containing the phthalates as of Jan. 1, 2009.
Showing posts with label environment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label environment. Show all posts
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Thursday, July 10, 2008
More Green Diaper Options
For those of you that are looking for better options in the diapering department, you will be happy to hear that more and more progress is being made.
In the disposable-but-still-less-impact department we have:
New 7th Generation Chlorine Free Newborn Diapers:
Our redesigned diapers are now thinner (and just as absorbent), with stretchier leg gathers and closure tabs " and they're made in the U.S. That means less waste and less resource use " with the same great performance and chlorine free commitment. Check below for new sizes and package counts. The chlorine-free materials and absorbent polymers used in our diapers help keep your baby dry in between changes and through the night. In addition to being effective at keeping baby dry and reducing the risk of diaper rash, studies show that our absorbent polymer is non-toxic and non-irritating to baby's sensitive skin.
Classy Kid Keep Me Tidy Biodegradable Diaper Sacks
For disposing of your 7th generation diapers, try Classy Kid Diaper Sacks. Made of biodegradable plastic, they break down much faster than those grocery store bags or regular trash bags. They have fresh scent which helps control orders and cuts down on air-borne disease transmission.
For those of you that are interested in cloth diapers or already CD-ing, new options in removal of the tough stuff without resorting to a sprayer:
Kushies Flushable-Biodegradable Diaper Liners
Simply tear off one of these absorbent perforated sheets and place it flat in your baby's clean diaper. When the diaper is soiled, just toss the liner into the toilet. No dunking, no swishing - you may even be able to re-use the same diaper with a new liner. Cloth diapers will stay nice and white, and cleanups couldn't be easier.
In the disposable-but-still-less-impact department we have:
New 7th Generation Chlorine Free Newborn Diapers:
Our redesigned diapers are now thinner (and just as absorbent), with stretchier leg gathers and closure tabs " and they're made in the U.S. That means less waste and less resource use " with the same great performance and chlorine free commitment. Check below for new sizes and package counts. The chlorine-free materials and absorbent polymers used in our diapers help keep your baby dry in between changes and through the night. In addition to being effective at keeping baby dry and reducing the risk of diaper rash, studies show that our absorbent polymer is non-toxic and non-irritating to baby's sensitive skin.
Classy Kid Keep Me Tidy Biodegradable Diaper Sacks
For disposing of your 7th generation diapers, try Classy Kid Diaper Sacks. Made of biodegradable plastic, they break down much faster than those grocery store bags or regular trash bags. They have fresh scent which helps control orders and cuts down on air-borne disease transmission.
For those of you that are interested in cloth diapers or already CD-ing, new options in removal of the tough stuff without resorting to a sprayer:
Kushies Flushable-Biodegradable Diaper Liners
Simply tear off one of these absorbent perforated sheets and place it flat in your baby's clean diaper. When the diaper is soiled, just toss the liner into the toilet. No dunking, no swishing - you may even be able to re-use the same diaper with a new liner. Cloth diapers will stay nice and white, and cleanups couldn't be easier.
Friday, June 20, 2008
Eating On the Go
Summer is a fantastic time for picnics and eating outdoors. With summer camps you may also have more lunches and snacks to be packing too. Here are some recent fun finds for food on the go:
Cereal-on-the-Go- How clever is this thing?! Freeze the bottom half of our Cereal-on-the-Go container before you leave home to keep milk cool. Cereal stays dry and fresh in the top compartment until it's time to eat.
Snack & Dip- These brightly colored containers are just too cute. It's an all-in-one container for storing carrots, celery, apples and other treats, along with your favorite dip. Microwave re-heatable and top rack dishwasher safe.
Beetle Spoon & Spork- whimsical and reusable spoons and sporks. The wings unfold to form a handle. Each comes in its own compact travel case
Friday, May 9, 2008
Plastics Guide Part II
Here is a great list of some everyday food storage containers and baby products to avoid.
#3 Gerber Clear and Soft Baby Bottle Nipples
#3 Evenflo Soft Bite Spoon
#3 Reynolds Wrap
#7 Avent Baby Bottles
#7 Avent Soft Spout Training Cups
#7 Evenflo Baby Bottles (clear, untinted)
#7 Gerber Baby Bottles (clear only)
#7 Gerber Looney Toons spill-proof cups
#7 Gerber Suzy’s Zoo spill-proof cups
#7 Playtex Cherub, Juice and Trainer Cups
#7 Playtex Baby Bottles
#7 Sassy MAM 3-Step Baby Bottles
#7 The First Years Baby Bottles
#7 The First Years Peek-a-Boo Cups
#7 Tuppercare Baby Bottles
#7 Rubbermaid Clear Classics container bases*
#7 Tupperware Rock N’ Serve containers
#7 Tupperware Meals-in-Minutes Microsteamer base
#3 Gerber Clear and Soft Baby Bottle Nipples
#3 Evenflo Soft Bite Spoon
#3 Reynolds Wrap
#7 Avent Baby Bottles
#7 Avent Soft Spout Training Cups
#7 Evenflo Baby Bottles (clear, untinted)
#7 Gerber Baby Bottles (clear only)
#7 Gerber Looney Toons spill-proof cups
#7 Gerber Suzy’s Zoo spill-proof cups
#7 Playtex Cherub, Juice and Trainer Cups
#7 Playtex Baby Bottles
#7 Sassy MAM 3-Step Baby Bottles
#7 The First Years Baby Bottles
#7 The First Years Peek-a-Boo Cups
#7 Tuppercare Baby Bottles
#7 Rubbermaid Clear Classics container bases*
#7 Tupperware Rock N’ Serve containers
#7 Tupperware Meals-in-Minutes Microsteamer base
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Plastics Guide Part I
It seems like a vast majority of products made for infants and toddlers are made from plastic. How are parents to know which ones are safe and which ones should be avoided? We've been using Nalgenes for years only to recently find out that it may not be the smartest idea. Here's a good list to get you started:
#1 PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
Generally found in soft drink bottles, medicine containers. Bottom line: because this plastic which is not usually designed for re-use and very commonly recycled it is not ideal for extended use. Overuse will increase risk of leaching, and their design lends itself to harboring of bacterial growth. Recycle after its intended use.
#2 HDPE (high density polyethylene)
Used in toys and bottles for milk, water, detergent, shampoo, juice and thankfully safe for use and re-use.
#3 PPVC or UPVC (polyvinyl chloride –plasticized and un-plasticized)
Found in shampoo & detergent bottles, pipe & tubing, meat wrap, blood bags. Found in some clear food packaging, it is the second most commonly used plastic in the world. Unfortunately it often contains lead, and toxic plasticizers such as phthalates that can migrate into food, water, air and our mouths. Avoid when possible!
#4 LDPE (low density polyethylene)
This soft, flexible plastic is used in garbage bags, wrapping films, grocery bags and is safe for use. Of course, plastic bags pose a suffocation risk for small children, so while the material is chemically safe, the bags should not be left for small children to play with.
#5 PP (polypropylene)
Hard, but flexible. Used in ice-cream & yogurt containers, potato crisp bags, drinking straws, syrup bottles, diapers. Considered safe for use.
#6 PS or UPS (polystyrene and expanded polystyrene)
Rigid, brittle plastic often used in coffee cups, take-out food containers, meat trays, and plastic cutlery. Polystyrene may leach styrene, which is considered a possible human carcinogen, and may disrupt hormones or affect reproduction. Avoid when possible.
#7 Other (including polycarbonate, nylon and acrylic)
Many of these 'other' plastics are suspected of leaching chemicals disrupting hormone functions. Avoid if possible. 95% of all baby bottles are currently made of polycarbonate. Switch to polycarbonate-free baby bottles, like those manufactured from #5 PP, or consider using glass bottles or metal containers when old enough.
As a general tips for reducing toxic plastic exposure- store your food and water in glass or stainless steel if possible. When you do need wrap- choose non-PVC cling wrap (such as Glad and handiWrap).
For more information try nontoxiclife.com, and thegreenguide.com.
#1 PET or PETE (polyethylene terephthalate)
Generally found in soft drink bottles, medicine containers. Bottom line: because this plastic which is not usually designed for re-use and very commonly recycled it is not ideal for extended use. Overuse will increase risk of leaching, and their design lends itself to harboring of bacterial growth. Recycle after its intended use.
#2 HDPE (high density polyethylene)
Used in toys and bottles for milk, water, detergent, shampoo, juice and thankfully safe for use and re-use.
#3 PPVC or UPVC (polyvinyl chloride –plasticized and un-plasticized)
Found in shampoo & detergent bottles, pipe & tubing, meat wrap, blood bags. Found in some clear food packaging, it is the second most commonly used plastic in the world. Unfortunately it often contains lead, and toxic plasticizers such as phthalates that can migrate into food, water, air and our mouths. Avoid when possible!
#4 LDPE (low density polyethylene)
This soft, flexible plastic is used in garbage bags, wrapping films, grocery bags and is safe for use. Of course, plastic bags pose a suffocation risk for small children, so while the material is chemically safe, the bags should not be left for small children to play with.
#5 PP (polypropylene)
Hard, but flexible. Used in ice-cream & yogurt containers, potato crisp bags, drinking straws, syrup bottles, diapers. Considered safe for use.
#6 PS or UPS (polystyrene and expanded polystyrene)
Rigid, brittle plastic often used in coffee cups, take-out food containers, meat trays, and plastic cutlery. Polystyrene may leach styrene, which is considered a possible human carcinogen, and may disrupt hormones or affect reproduction. Avoid when possible.
#7 Other (including polycarbonate, nylon and acrylic)
Many of these 'other' plastics are suspected of leaching chemicals disrupting hormone functions. Avoid if possible. 95% of all baby bottles are currently made of polycarbonate. Switch to polycarbonate-free baby bottles, like those manufactured from #5 PP, or consider using glass bottles or metal containers when old enough.
As a general tips for reducing toxic plastic exposure- store your food and water in glass or stainless steel if possible. When you do need wrap- choose non-PVC cling wrap (such as Glad and handiWrap).
For more information try nontoxiclife.com, and thegreenguide.com.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Painting the Nursery: Part II
Once you've got an idea of theme and color for your nursery, the next step seems simple- go buy the paint! But paint can continue to give off harmful fumes even after it dries, it can harbor bacteria and be a pain to clean. So what paint is healthiest, greenest, most durable, most affordable? Well, you have lots of options:
Ceramic Paint- Low VOC, high durability and in some cases of this product comes with antimicrobial protection. Round ceramic beads in the paint pack closer together, and create a strong finish that is not very permeable- to dirt, bacteria, etc. Hence why the pain is able to withstand scrubbing while also preventing mold, mildew and bacteria from growing. Try: Ceramic Coat by O'Leary Paint, or Green Planet Paints Interior Clay paint.
Soy Based Paint & Finishes- To avoid using a petroleum base some companies are using soy and coming out with some great low VOC products. For interior painting try DuraSoy One paint, easy to clean, no need for primer and meets Green Building LEED requirements. If you are looking to seal natural wood (for a crib, rocker, changing table, deck, swing set...) use SoyGuard- non-toxic, low VOC, mildew resistant sealer. It lacks harmful chemicals such as biocides, pesticides, fungicides, or mildewcides that are often found in other wood treatments. Plus it's made in the US with American grown soybeans.
Milk Paint- Milk paint, also known as casein paint, is derived from milk and is a fast-drying, water-soluble paint has been in use for hundreds of years. Try the Real Milk Paint Company who uses all organic materials- powdered purified casein, lime and pigments. Milk paint is a little tricky though, you should use it right away once it is mixed and it does best on raw wood or unsealed walls or wall board. If you want to paint over an already painted room you will need to add UltraBond and clean and scuff the surface before applying the paint. Anna Sova also has a great pallet of casein based paints.
Others- BioSheild Paints is a great company that has a wide range of safe paints from clay and milk based to solvent-free paint and KinderPaint- a zero VOC, solvent free paint.
American Pride- Green Seal Certified and Green Building LEED compliant. This paint runs with the best of them, easy clean up, fast drying and they claim virtually unlimited color match capability with any major paint manufacturer palette.
A last note: according to Scientific American Magazine a crawling baby inhales the equivalent of four cigarettes a day as a result of out-gassing fumes. But with the above mentioned paints you can avoid all of that. So pick a color and paint without worry!
Ceramic Paint- Low VOC, high durability and in some cases of this product comes with antimicrobial protection. Round ceramic beads in the paint pack closer together, and create a strong finish that is not very permeable- to dirt, bacteria, etc. Hence why the pain is able to withstand scrubbing while also preventing mold, mildew and bacteria from growing. Try: Ceramic Coat by O'Leary Paint, or Green Planet Paints Interior Clay paint.
Soy Based Paint & Finishes- To avoid using a petroleum base some companies are using soy and coming out with some great low VOC products. For interior painting try DuraSoy One paint, easy to clean, no need for primer and meets Green Building LEED requirements. If you are looking to seal natural wood (for a crib, rocker, changing table, deck, swing set...) use SoyGuard- non-toxic, low VOC, mildew resistant sealer. It lacks harmful chemicals such as biocides, pesticides, fungicides, or mildewcides that are often found in other wood treatments. Plus it's made in the US with American grown soybeans.
Milk Paint- Milk paint, also known as casein paint, is derived from milk and is a fast-drying, water-soluble paint has been in use for hundreds of years. Try the Real Milk Paint Company who uses all organic materials- powdered purified casein, lime and pigments. Milk paint is a little tricky though, you should use it right away once it is mixed and it does best on raw wood or unsealed walls or wall board. If you want to paint over an already painted room you will need to add UltraBond and clean and scuff the surface before applying the paint. Anna Sova also has a great pallet of casein based paints.
Others- BioSheild Paints is a great company that has a wide range of safe paints from clay and milk based to solvent-free paint and KinderPaint- a zero VOC, solvent free paint.
American Pride- Green Seal Certified and Green Building LEED compliant. This paint runs with the best of them, easy clean up, fast drying and they claim virtually unlimited color match capability with any major paint manufacturer palette.
A last note: according to Scientific American Magazine a crawling baby inhales the equivalent of four cigarettes a day as a result of out-gassing fumes. But with the above mentioned paints you can avoid all of that. So pick a color and paint without worry!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Asthma in Children and Spring Cleaning
A recent study published in the European Respiratory Journal reports a link between wheezing and asthma in young children, and their mothers' use of cleaning products such as bleach and air freshener during pregnancy.
The study looked at 14,541 pregnant women and a large variety of lifestyle habits, including the use of household cleaners. Mothers that used bleach, air fresheners and other products during pregnancy and just after birth increased the risk of their child developing persistent wheezing by the age of seven by up to 41%. Authors have taken into account some other factors that lead to asthma such as heredity, environmental factors, animal allergies, pollen, dust mites and acknowledge that this study is only preliminary and more research needs to be done.
A study in New Scientist in 1999 reported that 'in homes where aerosol sprays and air fresheners were used frequently, mothers experienced 25 percent more headaches and were 19 percent more likely to suffer from depression, and infants under six months of age had 30 percent more ear infections and 22 percent higher incidence of diarrhea'.
For for your spring cleaning this year, try these alternatives:
The study looked at 14,541 pregnant women and a large variety of lifestyle habits, including the use of household cleaners. Mothers that used bleach, air fresheners and other products during pregnancy and just after birth increased the risk of their child developing persistent wheezing by the age of seven by up to 41%. Authors have taken into account some other factors that lead to asthma such as heredity, environmental factors, animal allergies, pollen, dust mites and acknowledge that this study is only preliminary and more research needs to be done.
A study in New Scientist in 1999 reported that 'in homes where aerosol sprays and air fresheners were used frequently, mothers experienced 25 percent more headaches and were 19 percent more likely to suffer from depression, and infants under six months of age had 30 percent more ear infections and 22 percent higher incidence of diarrhea'.
For for your spring cleaning this year, try these alternatives:
- Baking Soda - cleans, deodorizes, softens water, scours.
- Soap - unscented soap in liquid form, flakes, powders or bars is biodegradable and will clean just about anything. Avoid using soaps which contain petroleum distillates and that are labeled "antibacterial"- soap by nature is antibacterial and doesn't needed anything added!
- Lemon - one of the strongest food-acids, effective against most household bacteria.
- Borax - (sodium borate) cleans, deodorizes, disinfects, softens water, cleans wallpaper, painted walls and floors.
- White Vinegar - cuts grease, removes mildew, odors, some stains and wax build-up.
- Kosher Salt and Water- If you need a tougher abrasive on sinks and cast iron pans, sprinkle on kosher salt, and scrub with a wet cloth or sponge.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
A Healthy Green Easter Basket
Stores have had Easter candy out the since the day after Valentines day. But Easter doesn't have to be about marshmellow Peeps, Cadbury Cream eggs and plastic grass. Try these alternatives to make your baskets healthier for you kids and for the environment.
1. Replace some candy with books and other small gift items. A tiny stuffed animal, small puzzle or bubble solution can be just as fun as something sweet and it will last much longer. Silly Putty is already sold in an egg shape! Crayons and an Easter themed coloring book also are cheap and easy.
2. If you are going to do a plastic egg hunt, fill half the eggs with candy and the other half with money. Kids love collecting coins. Put a quarter or a few dimes in a egg and they will be over joyed. Keep the eggs and reuse them next year!
3. Line your basket with real grass (weather permitting) or green felt cut to look like leaves and grass. Green glass decorating beads- the kind that go in decorative vases found at any craft store, would also be a nice way to line your basket. One you have a nice woven basket- save it for next year!
4. Use natural dyes instead of store bought ones, better for the environment and you get a wider range of color options. Boil your eggs in water with a bit of vinegar and one of these ingredients below, then let simmer for at least 15 minutes:
1. Replace some candy with books and other small gift items. A tiny stuffed animal, small puzzle or bubble solution can be just as fun as something sweet and it will last much longer. Silly Putty is already sold in an egg shape! Crayons and an Easter themed coloring book also are cheap and easy.
2. If you are going to do a plastic egg hunt, fill half the eggs with candy and the other half with money. Kids love collecting coins. Put a quarter or a few dimes in a egg and they will be over joyed. Keep the eggs and reuse them next year!
3. Line your basket with real grass (weather permitting) or green felt cut to look like leaves and grass. Green glass decorating beads- the kind that go in decorative vases found at any craft store, would also be a nice way to line your basket. One you have a nice woven basket- save it for next year!
4. Use natural dyes instead of store bought ones, better for the environment and you get a wider range of color options. Boil your eggs in water with a bit of vinegar and one of these ingredients below, then let simmer for at least 15 minutes:
- Purple grape juice (for lavender)
- Red cabbage (for blue)
- Spinach (for green)
- Carrot tops, orange peels or lemon peels (for yellow)
- Yellow onion skins (for orange)
- Beets or cranberries (for pink)
- Red onion skins (for red)
Thursday, January 10, 2008
the Daily Green's Mom Blog
If you have never been to The Daily Green, its a pretty cute informative website. Think- Real Simple meets GreenBlog. Not that websites should be graded on layout and presentation- but with a lot of the content being available via many sources, why not go for the one that is the easiest on the eyes?
I just found the Daily Green has a section called Ask An Organic Mom. It is written by the co-authors of The Complete Organic Pregnancy. Posts include topics like
Feeding Baby Organic (Even Vegan) On the Road
Finding Organic Food from Local Farms - Even in Winter
Pregnant? Breast Feeding? Best Avoid Nail Polish
Enjoy! It's a great resource!
I just found the Daily Green has a section called Ask An Organic Mom. It is written by the co-authors of The Complete Organic Pregnancy. Posts include topics like
Feeding Baby Organic (Even Vegan) On the Road
Finding Organic Food from Local Farms - Even in Winter
Pregnant? Breast Feeding? Best Avoid Nail Polish
Enjoy! It's a great resource!
Friday, January 4, 2008
A Gift of Diapers to Orphans in Need
Mother of Eden, the company that makes Fuzzi Bunz cloth diapers and other diapering accessories now has programs that you can donate used cloth diapers to. If all your kids are finally potty trained and you are wondering what to do with those diapers- check out this page.
Mother of Eden has sent thousands of diapers to orphans in the U.S., Africa Haiti and Ukraine. An example of how your diapers might help:
Mother of Eden has sent thousands of diapers to orphans in the U.S., Africa Haiti and Ukraine. An example of how your diapers might help:
Healing Hands for Haiti
Healing Hands for Haiti is a non-profit grass roots organization dedicated to fostering the expansion and quality of rehabilitation services for physically disabled adults and children in Haiti. Haiti is the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere and the fifth poorest in the world. Orphaned babies and children live a daily struggle to meet basic needs. And with streets overrun with trash, Haiti's orphans are in desperate need for cloth diapers. We are proud to have partnered with this organization through our donation of 500 Fuzzi Bunz diapers.
Monday, December 17, 2007
Australia's Baby Breath Tax
There has been more and more talk of downsizing the human population as the Earth's natural resources are recently straining to keep up with the growth- but Australia is the 1st that I know of to propose a tax for the carbon footprint the new family addition will add. The proposal basically says that the first two kids you don't have to pay for, but any kids after that will cost you a $4,400 tax at birth, plus $350 to $700 per year "for the life of the child."
What is the justification? From a letter to the Editor of The Medical Journal of Australia,
Every newborn baby in Australia represents a potent source of greenhouse gas emissions for an average of 80 years, not simply by breathing, but by the profligate consumption of resources typical of our society.
Does that seem unfair? I'm not sure what I think yet. But on the opposite side of this proposal- people should get carbon credits for using contraceptives, intrauterine devices, diaphragms, condoms and sterilization procedures. Likewise, family planning clinics and hospitals that provide greenhouse-friendly services should also receive a tax benefit.
This will be an interesting topic and trend to follow.
What is the justification? From a letter to the Editor of The Medical Journal of Australia,
Every newborn baby in Australia represents a potent source of greenhouse gas emissions for an average of 80 years, not simply by breathing, but by the profligate consumption of resources typical of our society.
Does that seem unfair? I'm not sure what I think yet. But on the opposite side of this proposal- people should get carbon credits for using contraceptives, intrauterine devices, diaphragms, condoms and sterilization procedures. Likewise, family planning clinics and hospitals that provide greenhouse-friendly services should also receive a tax benefit.
This will be an interesting topic and trend to follow.
Monday, December 10, 2007
2007 Green Holiday Toy List
There are tons of places on the web telling you what it hot and what's not, what's "eco-hip" and what Earth friendly... most are not all that helpful, but here is a run down of some lists that were actually worth reading:
250+ Lead-Free Toys Made in the USA: From the Daily Green.
The Daily Green has reached out to Made-in-USA toy manufacturers all over America to find out what's available this holiday season for kids whose parents are willing to take that extra step to keep their kids (and homes) safe from this deadly environmental toxin.
Yahoo's Growing Up Green List
25 gift from the top environmental blogs including TreeHugger, ecoFabulous and Greenopia
The Green Parent Holiday Gift List
Gifts are divided into 5 categories; Toys You Can Trust, No Waste Gifts, Books for All Ages, Cool Eco-Friendly Stuff, and Gifts That Give Back.
250+ Lead-Free Toys Made in the USA: From the Daily Green.
The Daily Green has reached out to Made-in-USA toy manufacturers all over America to find out what's available this holiday season for kids whose parents are willing to take that extra step to keep their kids (and homes) safe from this deadly environmental toxin.
Yahoo's Growing Up Green List
25 gift from the top environmental blogs including TreeHugger, ecoFabulous and Greenopia
The Green Parent Holiday Gift List
Gifts are divided into 5 categories; Toys You Can Trust, No Waste Gifts, Books for All Ages, Cool Eco-Friendly Stuff, and Gifts That Give Back.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Better for the Kids and the Environment!
A new study out in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences by Jianguo Liu, an ecologist at Michigan State University says that "Americans spend an extra $3.6 billion annually on water as a result of the extra households created when people divorce". Other examples they site: running twice as many applicances for the same number of people- two separate AC units, dishwashers, and refrigerators - where there used to be more communal use.
Now, there are plenty of good reasons for divorce- abuse being a very serious one, so I am not suggesting this lightly. Just an interesting factoid. Healthy marriages are always ideal and now here's another (albeit very small) motivation to work things through perhaps.
The MSNBC article can be found here.
Now, there are plenty of good reasons for divorce- abuse being a very serious one, so I am not suggesting this lightly. Just an interesting factoid. Healthy marriages are always ideal and now here's another (albeit very small) motivation to work things through perhaps.
The MSNBC article can be found here.
Monday, November 5, 2007
Kids Making a Difference
If you are on the PTA and looking for some inspiration, check out Treehugger.com's Elementary School of the Week posts.
This week they are highlighting Barbara Bush Elementary. This school has received awards from Keep America Beautiful, Keep Texas Beautiful, and the American Forest and Paper Association. The school has an average recycling rate of 237 lbs. of paper per student (are they bringing in their parent's papers from home?). However they are doing it, with that rate they are recycling rate is seven times the national average.
In just 18 months the students and teachers have:
• Avoided 48 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions
• Avoided the use of 625 million BTU’s of energy use
• Saved 205 cubic yards of landfill waste
• Avoided the use of 434,000 gallons of water
• Allowed 4,836 tree seedlings to grow
Check out the school's website to learn about their corresponding curriculum and the on-site Nature Center which was designed to,
"have a natural area on school grounds where students may study physical features, native flora and fauna, and their inter- and interrelationships. To provide a natural outdoor laboratory for the stimulation of students’ inquisitive scientific curiosity. To help promote hands-on, minds-on learning into the numerous components of Gulf Coast ecosystems. To create an outdoor laboratory easily accessible for all students of Bush Elementary. "
Way to go to our all of our elementary schools that are making a difference!
This week they are highlighting Barbara Bush Elementary. This school has received awards from Keep America Beautiful, Keep Texas Beautiful, and the American Forest and Paper Association. The school has an average recycling rate of 237 lbs. of paper per student (are they bringing in their parent's papers from home?). However they are doing it, with that rate they are recycling rate is seven times the national average.
In just 18 months the students and teachers have:
• Avoided 48 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions
• Avoided the use of 625 million BTU’s of energy use
• Saved 205 cubic yards of landfill waste
• Avoided the use of 434,000 gallons of water
• Allowed 4,836 tree seedlings to grow
Check out the school's website to learn about their corresponding curriculum and the on-site Nature Center which was designed to,
"have a natural area on school grounds where students may study physical features, native flora and fauna, and their inter- and interrelationships. To provide a natural outdoor laboratory for the stimulation of students’ inquisitive scientific curiosity. To help promote hands-on, minds-on learning into the numerous components of Gulf Coast ecosystems. To create an outdoor laboratory easily accessible for all students of Bush Elementary. "
Way to go to our all of our elementary schools that are making a difference!
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Extreme Eco-Beds
I look forward to Thursday because of the Home and Garden section in the NYTimes. In their Currents slideshow, I cam across this:
This bed is named "Float" and sells with the mattress for $25,000. The company that sells it, Okooko, takes its name from the Maori word for “to cradle in arms”. Some cradle! While Okooko sells mattresses made of natural latex, bamboo and wool, and beds made of wood from sustainable forests managed by the New Zealand government. It also costs an arm and a leg. Technically, it is not actually a children's bed as I had originally thought, but if you are looking for an uber-environmentally bed that will grow with your children, here you go.
This bed is named "Float" and sells with the mattress for $25,000. The company that sells it, Okooko, takes its name from the Maori word for “to cradle in arms”. Some cradle! While Okooko sells mattresses made of natural latex, bamboo and wool, and beds made of wood from sustainable forests managed by the New Zealand government. It also costs an arm and a leg. Technically, it is not actually a children's bed as I had originally thought, but if you are looking for an uber-environmentally bed that will grow with your children, here you go.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Book: Raising Baby Green
A new organic parenting book hit the shelves last month and it has been getting some rave reviews. Raising Baby Green: The Earth-Friendly Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby Care is a self proclaimed "comprehensive guide to help environmentally conscious parents make healthy product and lifestyle choices".
So who is the author Dr. Greene? Intel named him Child's Health Hero of the Internet, and he has already published one book prior to this one, From First Kicks to First Steps. That's great and all, but doesn't really impress me much. What is more impressive to me is that he is a father of four and a practicing pediatrician. I hate when doctors stop practicing to just write books and sell stuff, being in the office and seeing patients keeps things in perspective and fresh.
While writing his book Dr. Greene kept in mind that we don't want to break the bank in the movement towards organic. Here is Greene has identified 5 foods that will make an impact and are easy to switch. Courtesy of NYTimes:
1. Milk: “When you choose a glass of conventional milk, you are buying into a whole chemical system of agriculture,'’ says Dr. Greene. One recent United States Department of Agriculture survey found certain pesticides in about 30 percent of conventional milk samples and low levels in only one organic sample. The level is relatively low compared to some other foods, but many kids consume milk in large quantities.
2. Potatoes: Potatoes are a staple of the American diet — one survey found they account for 30 percent of our overall vegetable consumption. A simple switch to organic potatoes has the potential to have a big impact because commercially-farmed potatoes are some of the most pesticide-contaminated vegetables.
3. Peanut butter: More acres are devoted to growing peanuts than any other fruits, vegetable or nut, according to the U.S.D.A. More than 99 percent of peanut farms use conventional farming practices, including the use of fungicide to treat mold, a common problem in peanut crops.
4. Ketchup: For some families, ketchup accounts for a large part of the household vegetable intake. About 75 percent of tomato consumption is in the form of processed tomatoes, including juice, tomato paste and ketchup. Notably, recent research has shown organic ketchup has about double the antioxidants of conventional ketchup.
5. Apples: Apples are the second most commonly eaten fresh fruit, after bananas, and they are also used in the second most popular juice, after oranges, according to Dr. Greene. But apples are also one of the most pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables. The good news is that organic apples are easy to find in regular grocery stores.
Dr. Greene's website is full of even more useful information.
So who is the author Dr. Greene? Intel named him Child's Health Hero of the Internet, and he has already published one book prior to this one, From First Kicks to First Steps. That's great and all, but doesn't really impress me much. What is more impressive to me is that he is a father of four and a practicing pediatrician. I hate when doctors stop practicing to just write books and sell stuff, being in the office and seeing patients keeps things in perspective and fresh.
While writing his book Dr. Greene kept in mind that we don't want to break the bank in the movement towards organic. Here is Greene has identified 5 foods that will make an impact and are easy to switch. Courtesy of NYTimes:
1. Milk: “When you choose a glass of conventional milk, you are buying into a whole chemical system of agriculture,'’ says Dr. Greene. One recent United States Department of Agriculture survey found certain pesticides in about 30 percent of conventional milk samples and low levels in only one organic sample. The level is relatively low compared to some other foods, but many kids consume milk in large quantities.
2. Potatoes: Potatoes are a staple of the American diet — one survey found they account for 30 percent of our overall vegetable consumption. A simple switch to organic potatoes has the potential to have a big impact because commercially-farmed potatoes are some of the most pesticide-contaminated vegetables.
3. Peanut butter: More acres are devoted to growing peanuts than any other fruits, vegetable or nut, according to the U.S.D.A. More than 99 percent of peanut farms use conventional farming practices, including the use of fungicide to treat mold, a common problem in peanut crops.
4. Ketchup: For some families, ketchup accounts for a large part of the household vegetable intake. About 75 percent of tomato consumption is in the form of processed tomatoes, including juice, tomato paste and ketchup. Notably, recent research has shown organic ketchup has about double the antioxidants of conventional ketchup.
5. Apples: Apples are the second most commonly eaten fresh fruit, after bananas, and they are also used in the second most popular juice, after oranges, according to Dr. Greene. But apples are also one of the most pesticide-contaminated fruits and vegetables. The good news is that organic apples are easy to find in regular grocery stores.
Dr. Greene's website is full of even more useful information.
Monday, October 22, 2007
How Quickly They Pick Stuff Up
Infants and toddlers are amazing in their ability to learn vast amounts in a small amount of time. Their vocab starts with just repeated monosyllabic sounds (da-da is often first) and then grows so fast that you can't keep up and next thing you know they are putting together sentences.
But vocabulary isn't the only thing they are picking up in 18 months. Check out this article from CNN. A mother of two young children had her kids tested for industrial chemicals in their blood and the results were rather unsettling. She speaks on her younger son's results; "He had two to three times the level of flame retardants in his body that's been known to cause thyroid dysfunction in lab rats."
How is that possible? Dr. Leo Trasande, assistant director of the Center for Children's Health and the Environment at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City , speaks on the issue.
"Pound for pound, they eat more food, they drink more water, they breathe in more air... And so [children] carry a higher body burden than we do.
Rates of asthma, childhood cancers, birth defects and developmental disorders have exponentially increased, and it can't be explained by changes in the human genome. So what has changed? All the chemicals we're being exposed to."
What can parents do? Do their best to reduce unnecessary plastics, food preservatives and chemical cleaners and try not to worry. Our children will still likely live long happy lives as the life expectancy rate has only been increasing over the last 150 years.
But vocabulary isn't the only thing they are picking up in 18 months. Check out this article from CNN. A mother of two young children had her kids tested for industrial chemicals in their blood and the results were rather unsettling. She speaks on her younger son's results; "He had two to three times the level of flame retardants in his body that's been known to cause thyroid dysfunction in lab rats."
How is that possible? Dr. Leo Trasande, assistant director of the Center for Children's Health and the Environment at the Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City , speaks on the issue.
"Pound for pound, they eat more food, they drink more water, they breathe in more air... And so [children] carry a higher body burden than we do.
Rates of asthma, childhood cancers, birth defects and developmental disorders have exponentially increased, and it can't be explained by changes in the human genome. So what has changed? All the chemicals we're being exposed to."
What can parents do? Do their best to reduce unnecessary plastics, food preservatives and chemical cleaners and try not to worry. Our children will still likely live long happy lives as the life expectancy rate has only been increasing over the last 150 years.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Halle Berry's Green Baby Plans
Halle Berry is planning on being an environmentally conscious mom. She told People magazine that, "I'm working on the nursery, but it's all going to be organic and eco-friendly... There are so many things out now that you can use. I'm going to really try hard to make it all organic!". She added that, "They even have organic disposable diapers now that you can use".What diapers is she talking about? Well, there are a couple options in the "organic disposables" area.
Seventh Generation Disposable Diapers: They are made in the US- which is good for both the US economy and for reducing use of gas and oil for the product to get to store shelves. They are free of latex, prefumes, dyes, and TBT (tributyl tin). They are made of chlorine-free materials and hypo-allergenic.
Tushies: "The Gel-Free Alternative Diaper" claims to be free of gel, latex, prefumes, dyes, TBT, and GMO. The diapers use chlorine-free woodpulp instead. But I'm not convinced. They say right on the website, "Because Tushies Diapers do not contain a superabsorbent, parents will change diapers more frequently". So you are creating more waste then? If you are throwing out more diapers than regular disposables, I don't really see the environmental advantage here.
In the end, while I am glad that people are using more Earth-friendly materials, it still seems like the Prius answer to things. It sounds great and perhaps feels like you are helping the cause, but there isn't much there. The Prius isn't all that environmentally friendly- the batteries and lifespan of the car make it not as friendly as say a TDI Jetta which gets 40 to 50 mpg. In the same way, while organic diapers sound great, they aren't really helping- after all they still are disposable. Energy is going into something that is shipped, bought and worn for a very short period of time and then thrown out. It's like someone saying they use Earth-friendly paper cups. It doesn't make sense. Use something that you can wash and reuse!
This is why I am a huge advocate for cloth diapering. A few quick points from OrganicAuthority.com
"disposable diapers continue to fill landfills around the world... by contrast, washing organic cotton diapers at home uses surprisingly little water: 6% of a household's total water usage for top-loading washers and 3% for front-loading washers... In the summer, we use more water to keep our lawn green than we do to wash our diapers"
Not only that, but they are cheaper!
| Diaper Type Total Cost | Based on 6,750 diaper changes | Price Per Change |
| Cloth diapers (washed at home) | $778.05 | 12¢ |
| Cloth diapers (diaper service) | $2,133.00 | 31¢ |
| Disposable diapers | $2,530.00 | 37¢ |
Monday, October 15, 2007
Today: Blog Action Day
Today, October 15th, is Blog Action Day. Blog Action Day was created for bloggers to unite on a single important issue and get information out there on it. For 2007, the topic is the environment. There are so many ways and so many resources out there that it is hard to decide what to write on, but I think the easiest, simplest thing for everyone to do is remember the three Rs and for parents, the N.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Narrate.
I bet you are doing more for the environment that you realize. You have just gotten used to the small changes you have been making over the years- but your little ones may not know why you do the things you do or even notice that you are doing them. So take the two seconds to tell your children what it is your are doing and why it is best for the environment. Just a few examples, I'm sure you'll get the picture...
"We are carpooling with the Smiths to soccer because it saves gas and reduces CO2"
"We turn off the water while we brush our teeth to keep from wasting it"
"We use dish towels instead of paper towels to reduce waste and save trees"
Happy Blog Action Day folks!
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Narrate.
I bet you are doing more for the environment that you realize. You have just gotten used to the small changes you have been making over the years- but your little ones may not know why you do the things you do or even notice that you are doing them. So take the two seconds to tell your children what it is your are doing and why it is best for the environment. Just a few examples, I'm sure you'll get the picture...
"We are carpooling with the Smiths to soccer because it saves gas and reduces CO2"
"We turn off the water while we brush our teeth to keep from wasting it"
"We use dish towels instead of paper towels to reduce waste and save trees"
Happy Blog Action Day folks!
Monday, September 17, 2007
Pregnancy Eating Minus Pesticides
As if eating healthy, staying away from alcohol and caffeine, wasn't enough... now there are fruits that out do other fruits. Several green pregnancy articles are boasting lists of fruits and vegetables that are better than other because they are treated with less pesticides and are the "least contaminated". On these lists:
Closer to Ideal:
Asparagus. Avocados. Bananas. Broccoli. Cauliflower. Kiwi. Mangoes. Onions. Papaya. Pineapples. Sweet Corn. Sweet Peas.
Not Quiet as 'Green':
Apples. Bell Peppers. Cherries. Grapes. Nectarines. Peaches. Pears. Potatoes. Red Rasberries. Strawberries. Spinach.
What if you buy organic? Then I suppose you are safe. But what if you just wash them real good before eating, give them a little scrub? Well what's on the outside is not the only thing. FitPregnancy.com writes that,
A recent study from the University of California, Davis, found that organically grown berries and corn contain nearly 60 percent more polyphenolics, natural antioxidants that may improve your health. The theory: Crops grown without pesticides or herbicides produce more of these chemicals due to stress from insects or other pests, similar to the way humans build antibodies to ward off bacterial “bugs.”
To counter that argument, the USDA and the American Dietetic Association firmly claim that organic foods are not nutritionally superior or safer than conventionally produced food. So what is a hungry pregnant, apple-strawberry loving woman to do? Look at farmers markets for cheap, locally grown organic stuff, if not... do what your wallet and stomach tell you to do. Fruits and veggies are always a better choice than deep fried carnival dough, so go for it and enjoy.
Closer to Ideal:
Asparagus. Avocados. Bananas. Broccoli. Cauliflower. Kiwi. Mangoes. Onions. Papaya. Pineapples. Sweet Corn. Sweet Peas.
Not Quiet as 'Green':
Apples. Bell Peppers. Cherries. Grapes. Nectarines. Peaches. Pears. Potatoes. Red Rasberries. Strawberries. Spinach.
What if you buy organic? Then I suppose you are safe. But what if you just wash them real good before eating, give them a little scrub? Well what's on the outside is not the only thing. FitPregnancy.com writes that,
A recent study from the University of California, Davis, found that organically grown berries and corn contain nearly 60 percent more polyphenolics, natural antioxidants that may improve your health. The theory: Crops grown without pesticides or herbicides produce more of these chemicals due to stress from insects or other pests, similar to the way humans build antibodies to ward off bacterial “bugs.”
To counter that argument, the USDA and the American Dietetic Association firmly claim that organic foods are not nutritionally superior or safer than conventionally produced food. So what is a hungry pregnant, apple-strawberry loving woman to do? Look at farmers markets for cheap, locally grown organic stuff, if not... do what your wallet and stomach tell you to do. Fruits and veggies are always a better choice than deep fried carnival dough, so go for it and enjoy.
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