Ethical Consumption

That Turkey Isn't All That Ethical

Caitlin Chock — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:03:24 GMT

Out with the bird and in with the Tofurkey?! Okay, you may think that this is an almost criminal suggestion or shudder at the thought of removing the staple that is turkey from your Thanksgiving day feast from the table. But before you grab your fork and head for that piece of thigh meat consider what I have to say. I'm sure it's not a huge shock that Thanksgiving constitutes one of the greatest days of turkey consumption each year, and in the United States alone that can be upwards of 45 million gobblers! Take that and then add this: the meat industry is a black hole for greenhouse gas emissions. In being a more ethical shopper, you may do well to sing the praises of soy meat, or a vegetarian entree.

How in the world could your turkey be contributing to global warming you may ask? Well this is due to a few different reasons. Firstly, the amount of grain that is fed to turkeys around the world is astronomical. In fact, it was documented in a study at Cornell University, that a whopping 40% of the world's grain supply does not go to any human source, but instead down the gullet of turkeys. And of course what goes in, must come out, and in going through their natural processes, these turkeys are responsible for soil erosion and other land altering effects. Further, these birds are drinking up a large amount of water, and this of course is in a supply that is not everlasting.

But perhaps the worse offender of turkey day mayhem is with the shipping and transportation of all of these birds. Whether they be hauled uptown or across the country, the vast amount of carbon gas emitted from these treks is only adding to our global warming problems. In fact 18% of carbon gas emissions stems from the meat industry and their shipping endeavors. Okay, so what is an ethical consumer to do?

The answer may not be to your liking, and the result may not be pretty when it comes feed time around your own
Thanksgiving table. But bear in mind that sometime when you're going green, you've got to take one for the team:
Captain Plant's Team that is. (Sorry, couldn't resist the shout out to this AWESOME cartoon show of days past.) Be a more ethical shopper, picking up a replacement for the gobbler such as the previously noted Tofurkey or other meat replacement. There are chilis to choose from, and plenty of recipes to find that substitute meat for their main ingredient. In fact, today many of these products are so tasty that if you don't publicize it not everyone has to know that they are in fact ingesting a bird impersonator!

Being Ethical Turkey Day Consumers

Caitlin Chock — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 10:03:08 GMT

In thinking about all it means to be an ethical shopper this time of the year, I think it is worth noting that there is definitely something to giving back that which we have. Certainly with Thanksgiving on the immediate horizon, there are those all eagerly anticipating the basting, the mashing, the stuffing, the chopping, and the the pie baking that is to be had. But of course that pales in comparison to the eating that will follow suit! Yes, for those lucky enough to be surrounded by their friends and family (Yes, even an Aunt Laura who always knows best, or an Uncle Mike who simply knows it all!) this time of the year can be both blessed and joyous. Yet there are plenty of those who are going without, or celebrating alone, and even families that fill their homes with love but the table dressing may be lacking.

When it comes to the holidays, especially Thanksgiving and the Christmas season in particular, they are often met with a mixture of happiness and sadness. It is true that around these times the crime rates rise, as do the suicide rates, which can lead some to think that this could potentially be a depressing time of year too. Yet it doesn't necessarily need to be that way, as even the power of a friendly smile has been known to brighten the mood or day of a stranger. It is often overlooked the many ways we can effect others as we go about our daily lives; the opening of a single door for an elderly citizen struggling with arthritis, the suggestion of accurate directions for the lost, and the wave across the street could unknowingly hold a great impact on the receiving end.

There are the extreme instances in which a call on the telephone from a caring neighbor has saved someone from doing something drastic in a time when they felt all hope was lost, but there are plenty of ways to spread a little joy this season on a lesser, but still significant, scale. And it is here that I come back to your own planning and buying of your Turkey day feast. If you are lucky enough to be able to afford all the trimmings and favorite side dishes in
abundance (more mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie over here, please!) then you could be left with enough food to feed your family through next summer! While some can't ever get enough of Grandma's secrete recipe stuffing, months of turkey sandwiches, turkey loaf, and other such inspired dishes could garner a groan from the kids come the ringing in of the new year. So instead of packing up all of your own left overs and sending them out to relatives, storing them in your fridge until they may be of a questionable edible quality, shoving them in Fido's dish, or horror of all horrors sipmly throwing them out there is a better solution.

Giving these delicious left overs to a family not as lucky as your own, or donating them to a soup kitchen or other
such organization is a wonderful way to not only ease the burden for your fridge, but lighten their spirits. Giving
back that which you have too much of, instead of letting it turn to waste or at least no longer be of great satisfaction to yourself, is a form of recycling or at least passing forward what you can. Our Earth only has so much to supply the entire population, so there is inevitably going be places that have less of what is to be reaped, and for those
lucky enough to have enough left over to share, they should do what they can to do so. So as you are going about being an ethical shopper, a savvy consumer, and selecting items that are packaged in a more recyclable friendly fashion, take that same idea and apply it to the food that comes inside that wrapping. You'll not only be giving someone else the treat of devouring Aunt Kathy's famous yams, but saving those prized tubers from a fate of becoming dumped down a garbage disposal; something Aunt Kathy would shudder at the thought of!

Buying locally to be an ethical shopper

Caitlin Chock — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:13:39 GMT

When thinking about how you can be a more ethical shopper, it is worth noting that it comes down to more than simply finding products that don't cause harm to the environment. While green living is a hot trend, and thankfully catching on, another aspect that can be considered is how buying locally can help your local economy and your community. Being that there are are a lot of terms thrown around today, such as buying locally, sustainable products, grass-roots companies, and organics, the simple trip to the market or store can leave you a bit confused.

The principle of buying locally is that you are supporting farmers and tradesmen in your direct area. Instead of buying products that are shipped either over land or over seas, you are buying directly from the source. The benefits of this is everything from cutting down on the amount of gas emissions produced when a truck drives across states to deliver your food, to helping the state of your local economy. By giving business to the little Mom and Pop stores you are helping bolster your community and in turn helping the little men struggling to stay in business against the top corporations.

The economic times are tough on everyone, especially the small businesses and many of them are finding themselves struggling to stay afloat. They simply can't compete with the larger business and are being driven out of business themselves, and left without income. In addition to simply helping your neighbor and receiving a more personal experience in your shopping, buying locally also reduces the amount of packaging waste. This is because often there is less processing local products go through as they aren't shipped very far.

The best way to buy local is at a farmer's market or checking to see what stores carry locally grown foods because the biggest source of local business is in produce and other farmed products. Meats, fruits, and vegetables are great ways to help support the local economy, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't buy from other smaller shops and small businesses. These outlets are generally the one or two shop kind, instead of the chains or mass merchandisers.

As I noted, times are tough for everyone, and the sad fact is that the bigger corporations are usually able to sell us
the same goods for less money. This means that being a more ethical shopper could be a little pricier, but it is still
worth thinking about. Perhaps you can buy locally on a few items worth spending a little more on; you will know exactly where they came from and you will also have the benefit of knowing that you helped out a neighbor of your community stay in business.

The island of lost plastics

Caitlin Chock — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 10:06:30 GMT

Where do some of the plastic products, wastes, and other trash we discard end up if not in a landfill that is actually on land? Well, perhaps for you next holiday vacation you would like to pay a visit to the beautiful island of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch. Sounds lovely doesn't it? This ideal travel destination spans hundreds of miles, is estimated to be roughly the size of the state of Texas in the United states, or was it the size of France? No one is actually sure, but at any rate, it sits in the northern region of the Pacific Ocean. Here you can see the many vibrant colors (okay mostly blacks, browns, and whites) making up all the residual waste from product consumption.

These plastic particles, soda bottles, straws, and other trash offer up a tantalizing treat for all the surrounding sea life and birds soaring above. In fact, mama albatross birds find this debris particularly nutritious for their young babies, and have a habit of plucking such garbage from the swirling 'landmass' and offering it up to their young. Unfortunately, plastic doesn't necessarily do a body good, and the baby albatross birds are dying at an alarming rate due to poison by plastic. But the fun doesn't stop there folks, when frequenting this island of garbage, you really will only be stepping upon the tip of the ice berg. In fact, even the best estimates of how extensive this landfill is are merely guesses, as no one truly can comprehend just how deep it plunges. Deep below the ocean blue sits countless discarded tires and other items we have shunned.

Let us take a scenic dive among this polluted landmass to see what wonders lie below the blue. To our left we have the sea turtle caught in a web of plastic fishing net; we can come back later after he's had plenty more hours and days to ineffectually struggle to get free. Or maybe that's not a sea turtle at all, but instead a poor unlucky seal pup stuck in the snarl. No matter, because the result is invariably the same. Maybe he will eke out a little longer as it looks like a good amount of fish are also stuck in the nets for his snacking pleasure.

Enough snorkeling for one day, let us return back to our lodgings and do a bit more sightseeing. Be careful to not step on that carcass of the short-tailed albatross we learned about before, he may cause a mess on your shoe. You see those little plastic balls right there? Well those are the resin pellets that are used to make most plastic products when they are melted and then fused. Those are what he was fed by his unknowing mother; silly bird, she mistook it for fish eggs! At any rate, we have no doubt worked up our own appetites, with all these food containers and drink cups lying around. Feel free to indulge if you wish as they were appetizing enough to devour back on land but it took much too much effort to put those empty receptacles into the proper waste can.

Okay, I apologize for a bit of a sarcastic tone, and no this is not a plug for the latest vacation hideaway. I was merely making a point that because of our product consumption and consumer waste, we have in fact built a small country. They say Rome wasn't built in a day, and this is true of our very own trash island. This has amassed over years, but at the same time it is growing alarmingly fast. Unless we clean up our own act, this island may turn into a continent.

Digging out of the Junk Mail Mountain

Caitlin Chock — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:24:03 GMT

After going to my mailbox to collect my mail after a few days away, I am always surprised at just how much junk gets crammed into that little box. If it isn't those annoying reminders from magazine companies alerting to me that if I act NOW I can save up to 50% off the newsstand price, its credit cards that I'm instantly approved for, or catalogs I have no idea where they got my address. (No, I am not a 60 year old male with prostate problems, thank you very much.) Buried among that mess are the bank statements, bills, and a few super market circulars. Yes, it seems that the majority of what gets sent through the post now-a-days is junk. Thinking just how much paper and waste is generated from all that mail does not do well to support a greener product consumption.

So how can we rid ourselves of the mountains of junk mail? There is a way to unburden yourself from all those unwanted deliveries, but it will take some effort on your part and a bit of persistence, as those advertisers desperately want your business. (Economic times are tough for everyone!) But don't let that dissuade you from doing the right thing. First, before recycling all that paper, (I know you would never just toss it in the trash! :) ) take a moment to
actually look at the darned thing. If there is a phone number or way to contact them, do so and request to be taken off of their mailing list. As to the credit card companies, tell them you aren't interested and wish to be taken from their contact list as well. Then, you can submit your name to the Direct Marketing Association's Mail Preference Service and list yourself as a DMA individual, or a 'Do Not Mail'.

As to the catalogs and magazines, keep what you actually intend on reading and then unsubscribe to the rest. Call
the numbers found in the references and let them know you aren't looking to be sent any more of their scintillating
issues. If none of these measures fully stop the flow of junk, there are services that can further curtail your mail
deliveries such as Green Dimes or 41 Pounds; you can find all their information online.

Okay, well not EVERYTHING is categorized as junk, you do after all want to know the status of your bank account and
other assorted bills. However, many banks and companies now offer a 'paperless' option in which every transaction and update is done online and through your email account. Sign up for these, and then you will receive notices in your inbox, pay for your cellphone bills on your carrier's site, and significantly reduce the amount of wasted paper spent on your monthly reminders. By weeding out the amount of mail stuffed into your mailbox, you not only will be ridding yourself of the annoyance of all those fliers, but doing your part to having more ethical product consumption habits.

Running For a Greener Earth

Caitlin Chock — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 12:20:27 GMT

I am an admitted running freak. I am one of those people who whether rain or shine, hail or high-water, world on the verge of Apocalypse or not, is going to get her run in for the day. I just don't feel right without a good shot of those endorphins. Some say I may be addicted, but as far as addictions go I'd choose this over many others, so that's okay with me. That being said, I tend to go through running shoes pretty quickly, as pounding the pavement will inevitably do. I do always feel a little remorse at the passing of my last shoe; the miles we've spent together and the many runs we've shared. Though, I have found a way to ease the loss felt by ending my love affair with one pair and moving onto the other, and it is right in line with the ethical impact I strive to achieve.

You see, those worn out soles can be recycled and reused to be build into playgrounds, athletic surfaces, and my personal favorites: tracks! That's right, I can complete the entire circle by literally busting my shoes down by running laps on the track, and then watch as they in turn be transformed into that very same surface, neat, huh? Well, being that I live in Portland, OR, which is also the site of Nike's World Headquarters, I heard about the Reuse-A-Shoe program and thought just how ingenious it is. I can drop off my battered past foot loves and they are then ground down and used to make those surfaces.

Now, you don't have to live only in this fair city to do the same, there are drop off sites in most other Nike stores and you can find a place online at http://www.nikereuseashoe.com/ and take part in the worldwide process too. I just found that by contributing to another cause that helps to reduce waste and also build equipment for communities, I can take my affinity, passion, or even borderline addiction of running and turn it into something that helps others and reduces the overall product waste and consumption.

Working to reduce my own carbon footprint with footprints of a different nature are an easy way to have a positive, ethical impact. Truthfully, I'd be doing it anyways, but now when I catch flack from people calling me obsessive, or heaven forbid I still get that tired line, "Run, Forest, Run" from some misguided soul who still thinks that's funny, I can offer up the excuse that I'm running to save our planet!

Boycott of Soy Products

Justmeans Staff — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 06:24:21 GMT

Major UK based food companies along with Greenpeace have been inviting support from consumers to boycott soy products in the wake of protecting Amazon rainforests. They have joined forces to shun multinational traders that buy soy from the deforested land of Amazon rainforests.

In the last few years, too much destruction has been caused to the Amazon forests due to production of soy. In an attempt to support the cause, leading food retailers including McDonald's along with Greenpeace had also formed an alliance in order to demand immediate action from soy traders. Amazon destruction is basically being caused due to the rise in demand for soy based animal feed which is used in production of meat. Due to the rise in pressure from this unique alliance, even the US commodities giants including French-owned Dreyfus, Cargill, Bunge, and Brazilian-owned Amaggi have to come together for negotiation. Earlier this year Brazilian soy crushers announced extension of the ban on purchasing soybeans grown in the Amazon basin for one more year. This extension was the result of the pressure being imposed on them by the buyers and activist groups for the preservation of one of the world's largest rain forests.

Back in 2006, pressure from activist groups and consumers had led the Brazilian soy crushers to stop the purchase of soybeans that come from the Amazon basin. This moratorium was supposed to last for two years and applied to the plantation of soybeans in 2006 in the newly deforested areas. This initiative then was headed by the National Grains Exporters' Association and the Brazilian Association of Vegetable Oil Producers in an attempt to reconcile economic development with environmental conservation.

Large quantities of soy being grown in Argentina are not being used for human consumption. Instead, approximately 80% of the total production is used for animal feedlots, providing protein for poultry, hogs and cattle. After the Amazons, Argentina holds 61% of the largest rainforests in America and the production of soy in this country is also close to Brazil. The present need for consumers is to become more aware of what they eat and where it comes from.

Solar Power Does More Than Simply Save the Planet

Caitlin Chock — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:38:43 GMT

In many well developed countries, those living there often take the little things for granted. We couldn't imagine only having firewood to heat our homes, cooking over that same log burning fire, or living without many of the appliances and devices we use on a daily if not hourly basis. Well, this is the reality of those living in small villages across Argentina. For those residing in Misa Rumi their sole means of providing warmth and food for their families was also responsible for soil erosion, deforestation, carbon gas emissions and other negative environmental effects. Yet, thanks to the EcoAndina Foundation, these villages have been able to adopte more ethical consumption habits.

Those traveling to these remote villages are part of EcoAndina's resolve to implement the townspeople with solar energy power. Replacing their traditional burning habits, they are now able to heat their soups and other warm meals atop a solar stove. This new technology is greatly appreciated by those living in the villages as one such gold panner Julian Martinez replies, "We use the solar stove every day and it works well...it's not bad at all, I think it gives good results." These stoves, equipped with a sundial to adjust to the moving sun are then able to ignite almost instantly.

The solar technology doesn't stop at household conveniences alone, and they are being used by both bakeries and with water pumps too. This aids with the watering of the village's vegetable fields and gardens. Further, the schools are now able to provide a respite to the students from the frigid morning chills as they go about their lessons. In addition to cutting back on the amount of carbon gas emitted from the traditional burning methods, these solar cookers are helping to curb the cutting down of trees and forests in the surrounding area as the villagers are no longer seeking burnable logs. Each of the solar cookers boast being able to reduce two metric tons of carbon emissions each year from every household and have gained notoriety from other countries. Outside of the 30 villages in Argentina visited by the EcoAndina Foundation, further countries, particularly from Latin America, are expressing their interest as to this new technology.

The good work that the EcoAndina Foundation has done goes beyond simply improving the environment and spreading ethical consumption habits, but extends to simply improving the living quality of their fellow men. As we all go about our daily lives, hopefully we can look to what is being done in Argentina as an example to not only rely on eco-friendly energy sources but to be better human beings as well. The work done in these villages started out to save the planet, but it also did well to help save the human spirit.

Heating Your Home the Green Way

Caitlin Chock — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 08:34:57 GMT

At least for those of us in the Northern hemisphere, the winter months are upon us and with that comes colder temperatures, blustery winds, and chilly rains or snowfalls. As the temperature outside drops, inside we are apt to turning up our thermostats. In doing so, we are also contributing to an estimated 4 tons of gas emissions a year from each home. In addition to having a negative effect on the environment, heating costs in the winter and cooling costs in the summer make a big dent in our bank accounts as well. There are plenty of ways that we can still keep warm, while cutting back on the poisonous gasses we send pluming into the atmosphere and adopt a more ethical energy consumption.

Luckily, with global warming being a rather hot topic, energy suppliers have begun changing the means by which they generate their power and can offer greener electrical options. This may not be available to everyone, but for those who's electrical companies offers wind, solar, and other renewable systems this is an excellent way to lesson your impact on the environment. When energy is collected by windmills and solar panels instead of coal or oil the subsequent adverse effect on the atmosphere drops astoundingly. Yet these options aren't available everywhere, and the only way to urge electrical companies to rely more on renewable resources rather than the conventional ones is to raise the demand for greener energy. That means that a lot of the power for changes rests in our, the consumers' hands, because if the market for green energy sources outweighs the other, energy companies will have no choice but to follow through.

Well, that will take time, but in the mean time there are plenty of other ways to lesson the amount of energy your home uses. In the winter, bundle up with some cozy thermals and socks, and outfit your beds and sofas with blankets. During the day, keep your blinds open and allow what sunlight that does exist naturally warm your house. Check that your insulation is in proper condition and that your windows and doorways are sealed tight. Shut the doors to the rooms you aren't using, which will cut off unnecessary space to heat. Then, when you go to bed at night turn your thermostat down and add a few extra blankets.

These 'little' changes can really add up, and bring your heating bill down anywhere from 5-30%. Think of the money as an added bonus for adopting a more ethical energy outlook. At the same time, look into if renewable energy solutions are available in your area. The four main sources are wind, solar, geothermal, and biomass. These are the greener choices of the future, and how soon and widespread they replace coal, oil, nuclear, and even natural gas methods is left in our hands.

Is Your House Haunted By Phantom Electricity?

Caitlin Chock — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 08:22:23 GMT

It is the time of the year when the spooks and goblins are busily toiling away and creating mischief at night, but there may be a phantom lurking in your own home without you even knowing it. Phantom energy that is!
Phantom energy loss is the amount of electricity being used even when the lights, appliances, and other devices may be turned off, but are still plugged into an outlet. This type of consumer consumption may seem like a negligible amount, as you ask yourself, "how much energy can really be used by simply having my TV, DVD, and cellphone charger plugged in when they aren't in use?" Well, for an average home it may work out to only be about 5% of their total usage, but apply that on a national level and it comes out to roughly 65 billion kilowatt-hours of annual electrical use.

Okay, okay, so you are probably thinking, "yea, this is basically wasted energy, but do you really expect me to
plug in and unplug my TV every time I turn it on or off?" Well, in an ideal world yes, but let's be realistic,
for many households that's a tall order, and for safety reasons we wouldn't want young kids to be messing around
with electrical plugs and outlets. But that's not an excuse, there are still ways to cut down on that phantom
energy loss currently going on right under your nose. First, let's identify the biggest offenders of zapping
energy all day: they are the adapters for your cellphone charger, TV's and computers will a standby option,
digital clocks (including the ones on the microwave or stove), stereos, power tools, and of course our iPod
chargers that are inserted into the wall outlet.

The thing is, many of these things we wouldn't even think of as energy consumers, I know some of them come as a
surprise to me, but anything that has a light on or display illuminated when the device isn't being used is
guilty. To cut down on this wasted energy, you don't have to meticulously plug and unplug every electronic in
your house, but instead you can group the plugs and stick them into a shared power strip, which you can then turn
on or off as need be. This takes out some of the nuisance of dozens of plugs to keep track of, and also makes it
safer for young ones to simply push a button rather than be reaching into an outlet! Then, there are the little
things such as chargers for all of the many different devices we use. You don't need to let your cellphone
charger's cord be left plugged in all the time, pull it out when it's not actually doing it's job. Same thing
with digital camera adapters and video camera chargers; it may take an extra second or two, but it's worth the
'added' effort.

Finally, before you purchase an item, read the tiny little writing on that label, and see how much power the item
uses on standby. I'm sure you've seen all the commercials for Energy Star-labeled washers, dryers,
refrigerators, and the works; even if you completely tune out during the commercial breaks in your favorite
shows, there is at least some positive messages being pumped out between product spiels. Take advantage of the
newer, less energy expendable units and devices, and buy those. You can go online to the US Department of
Energy, and find a full listing of the manufacturers of these items.

Cutting down on the amount of energy from consumer consumption, particularly from sources that aren't providing us with anything at the time, is a relatively easy practice to instill. It will actually save you a bit of money on your electricity bill (who doesn't like that!), but in doing so you can also do your part in limiting the over
87 billion pounds of carbon dioxide released each year due to these phantom sources in the US alone. (That's not
even counting the rest of the world people...talk about BOO!) So, help your family to remember to keep their
chargers unplugged when not in use along with the other ideas mentioned above. Yes, changing your habits is
hard, so start with one appliance a day, and add another the next...and I'll be doing the same. Feel free to
brag about all the phantoms you've expelled from your house, and leave a comment of what you've done to cut down your energy usage!

The Great Hydrogen Debate

Caitlin Chock — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 06:33:19 GMT

Imagine zipping down the highway in your fancy new car and instead of a trail of smoggy exhaust pluming from the tail end, your vehicle only released some hot air and water. While the idea of your car releasing some hot gas may cause you to be the butt of a few jokes, (okay, sorry to make a lame one here) it certainly would be a revolution step toward an ethical globalization consumption reduction of gas emissions. For those of you up to
date on the latest in automotive technology, you probably already know that such cars are already in production and being driven (albeit by a select few) in California and Japan. However, as with any developing technology, there are both those for it and those opposed; let us take a look at both sides of the argument.

First, a little chemistry background on hydrogen. Hydrogen is the most basic element, consisting of a single
proton. It is also the most abundant gas in not only the world, but the entire universe, and it holds the
greatest potential for energy. When a hydrogen fuel cell is put into use, three things are created: energy,
water, and hot air. These fuel cells then work as a sort of battery, powering cars and other devices through a
chemical reaction rather than the combustion of standard vehicles running on gas. Those for the further
development of this science boast that with no negative emissions, we are well on our way to solving a major
player in global warming, and also the dependence on oil and other elements. In fact, NASA has been using this
technology for awhile to power their shuttles.

The major drawback of hydrogen fuel is cost. This technology is extremely expensive, and as the limited amount
of vehicles are produced, the refueling of them presents its own challenges. Fueling a hydrogen powered car far
surpasses the cost of a regular car, and these hydrogen fueling stations are in limited supply. Critics note
that while these cars are both efficient and clean-burning, they simply aren't economical or realistic. The
average citizen would never be able to afford such a car, and even if they did, they would further be burdened by
the amount of money it would take to simply keep the car running. Others note that hydrogen is highly reactive
and unsafe to have surrounding the general population. Hydrogen also has the tendency to leak, regardless of
any measures to keep it contained and fully sealed.

While it is still a ways off before these cars may actually be in wide dispersion, I for one think it is an
intriguing concept to continue to explore. In all that science and man has been able to create and achieve, I
find it hard pressed that making these vehicles as safe as the ones on the road today couldn't be possible. For
those saying that constant contact with hydrogen isn't safe enough, I urge them to consider the fact that as with
many things, including cars today, the biggest hazard is the person behind the wheel. I do feel that the financial aspect will be a big hurdle to clear; yet who knows what the future holds down the line. Again, with further developments the price of production may be significantly reduced. Cars that further demonstrate an ethical globalization standard are not ideas to be cast aside or tsk-tsked away lightly considering our current environmental condition. What do you think? Weigh in whether you are for or against, as we'd love to hear your thoughts!

Going Green: The Hollywood Effect

Caitlin Chock — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 06:22:16 GMT

Not too long ago the concept of 'going green' may have sparked images of a painting project gone awry, but nowadays, it seems that eco-friendly has almost become a fad. Everyone from Al Gore to Ashton Kutcher are speaking up about the importance of renewable resources and how to better protect our environment. Hollywood has blazed the way in creating a platform to urge the public to become more ethical consumers. It's ironic that a hole in the ozone layer isn't enough to sway public opinion, but when voiced from their favorite celebrities ears perk up.

Take that same attitude to the business level, and now mass supermarkets such as Winco and Albertsons are promoting reusable shopping bags and even sometimes offer up discounts to shoppers who bring their own bags. How refreshing this must feel to those among us who have been dutifully recycling our cans and paper products for years.

Living in Oregon, it's not an uncommon sight to see multiple colored bins depicting just which recyclable product goes where lining the streets come garbage day. Yet upon traveling outside of the 'Green' State, I was hard pressed to find even one house on the block who separated their papers from their plastics, let alone the reusable from the dinner left-overs.

Whether it be that celebrities finally jumped on board the eco-movement or a stark reality set in the minds of Americans when they saw those ice bergs melting in 'An Inconvenient Truth', whatever the cause the Nation woke up and decided that something needed to be done. With an increase in the demand for renewable resources and a new mindset of ethical shopping, businesses and manufacturers alike have amended their ways to appeal to this burgeoning new market. Cars are becoming electric, toys aren't being packaged in mountains of plastic and boxes that are the size of shipping crates, and even household necessities such as toilet paper, cleaning products, and the like are proudly boasting that they are 'green' and eco-friendly.

It's funny to watch things evolve, and now when I venture outside of Oregon and the land of recyclers, I am met by others just as willing to preserve the Earth. That we, as a Nation, are coming together as more ethical consumers and are now consciously thinking about what our effect on the planet is, and what we will leave generations to come. It is interesting to note that there is a sort of pride or sense of good-doing that goes along with shopping this way and that feeling is a sort or reward in and of itself. When passing through the checkout at the store, my little 'green' bag in hand, I do get a sense of satisfaction at stating that I will need neither paper not plastic.

How Green Are Your Green Products?

Justmeans Staff — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:45:12 GMT

There are thousands of consumers across the world claiming to have joined the sustainable and ethical bandwagon by purchasing eco-friendly products. From potato chips fried in organic cooking oil to cars that don't pollute, companies are bombarding us with products labeled as 'ethical' every other day. It is great to know that business organizations are also embracing the concept of ethical consumption; however, one can't help but wonder if the products claiming to be green are really green?

With consumers demanding eco-friendly products, manufacturers are trying to turn 'green' in order to cash in on the current market conditions. But not everything marketed with an eco-spin is good for our planet. Sadly, a large number of companies claiming to be green and eco-friendly are misleading the consumers. You may have spent extra bucks on buying green products but it may not be as eco- friendly as you thought.

So what are consumers to do? Do we need to go through the corporate record of each and every company we choose for buying products? Experts believe that instead of spending time on research, consumers can consider few guidelines so that they end up buying products that will make a difference to the planet. Currently, labels for 'non-toxic' or 'natural' are not regulated and companies can use them for their products. Therefore, we can look for products that are labeled as 'recycled' or 'organic' because these labels are provided to companies only when the federal government verifies it. Sometimes reading the ingredients of a product will also help consumers know whether or not the said ingredients have been used in it. Don't go for the packaging with soft and clean designs. It might have been used to mislead you. There are chances that if a claim made by a product is too good to be true, it probably is. In case the required information is not present on the label, look for it on the company's website. Look for some trustworthy certifications on products and buy in bulk to reduce individual packaging. After all wouldn't you like to spend money on something that helps you and your environment instead of money making companies?

Happy to be the Ethical Consumption Blogger

Caitlin Chock — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 06:25:06 GMT

(Me and my youngest brother, Wes!)

Hello!

I am happy to have joined the Justmeans Crew as the Ethical Consumption Editorial. I think it's so inspiring to see just how many people and companies from around the world have come together to do good things. It sometimes feels that everyone is kind of stuck in their own little bubble, busily involved in their own tasks, worries, jobs, and everything else that needs to get done in the day, and so entrapped in the immediate troubles at hand that they sometimes forget they are a part of a much bigger picture. I'm as guilty as the next person when the bills are piling up, dinner needs to be bought, and chores to be done! But, we are each just a small piece making up a whole, each still holding the potential to have a huge effect. The chances of that vastly improve when joined with others, and the Justmeans platform is an example of just that!

Okay, well, I'll step off my little soap box for now and get to actual introductions. I'm a freelance writer and artist living in Portland, Oregon and I absolutely love to run. Long distances that is, I don't have a single fast twitch muscle fiber in my body, but it's a great outlet and some may say I'm a bit obsessed, but I'm okay with that. I grew up in Sacramento, California, and no, I don't surf. Anyone who's been to Sacramento, knows it isn't on the coast, I didn't have a celebrity living next door, and I also didn't regularly go out to sushi with Arnold Schwarzenegger.

I've got three amazing sibling, all younger as I was the designated babysitter, who continue to amaze me everyday. I moved up to Oregon in 2004 and fell in love with this rainy state! Another thing that was new to me as I left behind those smoggy 110 degree summers of Sacramento for this new overall 'green' attitude that most every Oregonian had. I remember getting laser-sharp glares when I accidentally put my tuna can in the garbage *gasp* instead of the correct recycling bin. As far as I knew, it was only those soda cans that you turned into the recyclers to get a penny or two!

But I learned and amended my ways, and now I too sort my plastics from my papers, my milk cartons from the glass bottles. I'm still always learning new ways to improve my own habits and that's another thing that draws me to the Justmeans community. Everyone has something to share with others, everyone has something to be learned. I'm excited to be a part of this, and to hopefully contribute along with you in inspire us all to improve our immediate surroundings, our countries, and the world. Leave a comment, say hello, introduce yourself, offer some pennies for your thoughts, or what you hope to achieve...or anything else you may have on your mind!

Plastic or Paper Bags? What Do You Use?

Justmeans Staff — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:05:35 GMT

We can't deny the fact that plastic bags are contaminating soil, littering landscapes and polluting sources of water all over the world. Thousands of marine mammals mistake floating plastic bags for food and choke to death. The fact that plastic bags buried in landfills take almost 1000 years to break down, it has become essential to promote the use of reusable bags when shopping. Even if plastic bags break down after thousand years, the separated toxic particles further pollute water and soil.

The present need is to overcome the concept of 'use and toss' and support recycling and reuse of items. As consumers it is our responsibility to ensure that disposable items are consumed in a conscious manner. Plastic bottles or bags cannot be considered the only factors causing hazard to the environment. More than the negative effects it is our out of control consumption of plastic items and disposables that has caused destruction to the environment.

Paper bags have been considered a better alternative to plastic bags by consumers across the world. But if experts are to be believed, various environmental problems are also associated with this alternative. If the bags are not made from recycled paper, it will result in cutting of more trees thereby contributing to climate change. So, what are consumers to do? The answer is reusable bags that are made from materials that don't cause any damage to the environment. There is no need to dispose these bags after every use. One can keep using these bags every time they go shopping to grocery stores or even malls. But the problem lies in remembering to take these bags and bringing them back every time you go out shopping. In order to solve this issue, companies like Bagnesia have come up with a reusable bag kit that will remind the user to take the bag from the house, carry it to the store and bring it back again. The kit consists of a reusable bag, a door hanger, wrist lanyard keychain, carabineer clip and a steering wheel strap. Its time consumers start supporting ethical consumption and opt for reusable bags that will cause less damage to the environment.

Sweatshops and Inhumane Working Conditions

Justmeans Staff — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 13:33:35 GMT

Do you support the concept of ethical consumption? Have you ever expressed willingness to buy products that have been made ethically? If the answer is no, there are chances you are extending your support to the abuse of thousands of sweatshop workers all over the world. Several 21st century global retailers are trying to bring back inhumane working conditions that existed in factories during late 1700s. Similar conditions are prevailing in sweatshops today. Not only small children are being forced to work at low wages in these shops but the farmers are also being forced to sell their produce (raw materials) at unsustainable rates to the retailers. There are many well known brands that have been making profit while abusing and exploiting the workers in their supply chains.

Thanks to the popularity and worldwide acceptance of ethical consumerism, new companies and brands have come up that support eco-friendly practices for producing goods. Heidi & Seek is one such clothing line that has been providing sweatshop free, eco-friendly clothes to women in Melbourne, Australia. Reclaimed materials are used for designing and sewing the garments in order to extend support to the concept of reuse and recycle. At a time when several brands in the fashion industry are exploiting workers and making them bear the cost of low priced clothes being offered to the consumers, companies like Heidi & Seek come as a relief to thousands of conscious consumers across the globe.

The present culture of throwing away clothes after using it for sometime is contributing to carbon emission, massive expenditure of resources and exploitation of workers in sweatshops all over the world. The present condition demands a sustained movement within which direct communication can be established between the producers and consumers. Farmers providing raw materials to the retailers have just become underpaid employees of the global agribusiness but thanks to various labor rights forums efforts are being made to support rights of workers as well farmers related to this industry.

Being an Ethical and Eco-friendly Consumer

Justmeans Staff — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 10:29:35 GMT

The organic movement has resulted in the ever growing demand of green products and eco-friendly investment opportunities. The number of green companies has also increased sharply in the last decade. Business organizations are not only embracing sustainable production methods but they are also introducing products that will help the consumers reduce carbon footprint and curb the harmful effects of global warming.

The concept of ethical consumerism has brought a revolution in wealthy capitalist societies as well as in the homes of ordinary people. Consumers all over the world are practicing 'positive buying' that will not only cause nominal harm to the environment but also make sure that the workers in the concerned industries are not being exploited. Today, large as well as small companies want to gain the reputation of an ethical corporation. They seem to be involved in improving the ethical standards of their produce with the growing demand of ethical products by the consumers.

There are several benefits associated with being an ethical consumer. By spending money on eco-friendly products, consumers can extend their direct support to green companies that are involved in enhancing the condition of industry workers while at the same time making profit to be further used for investment in clean technology. Convenience is another factor that is driving conscious consumers towards ethical products. Every time they purchase ethical products, their guilt free shopping will also help them make a difference.

With the popularity of ethical consumerism, companies are getting encouraged to create better products that will have positive social and environmental consequences. This not only gives the consumers a say in the way products are being made but it also forces the company to conduct business ethically. The 'sustainability' buzz seems to be catching on across the globe. With global warming all set to pose serious threats to human existence in the coming years, it has become essential for all to take a small step towards making the planet a better place to live in.

Ethical Fashion - Combining Fair Trade and Ethical Standards

Justmeans Staff — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:45:43 GMT

Ethical fashion is all about people and the environment. It can be considered the perfect mix of fair trade and ethical standards used for producing clothes. Consumers need to understand the interrelation between fair trade clothing and ethical clothing in order to make an informed decision.

Ethical clothing refers to the production methods that consider basic labor rights on an international as well as local level. It is about workers, especially children who are employed in sweatshops for producing raw materials and sewing clothes. When you switch to ethical clothing, you will not only support the sweatshop-free movement but also ensure that the poor raw material producers in developing countries are not exploited by large corporations.

There are strong chances that the clothes you are wearing right now have been sewn by a poor child in some corner of the world. But the big question is - Are they getting proper wages? Is the working condition in those factories suitable for them to work? The concept of ethical clothing addresses such issues that are maybe as old as the clothing industry itself. It supports the basic needs of workers in sweatshops such as insurance options and maternity leaves.

Fair trade clothing is interrelated to ethical clothing standards. It is associated with the use of environment friendly production methods and organic materials for making clothes. Where ethical standards protect the rights of underpaid and overworked labors employed in sweatshop, fair trade standards are focused on protecting the environment from the use of harmful chemicals and production methods. Every year approximately 20,000 people die with the use of pesticides in cotton fields in developing countries. But fair trade clothes are made from organic cotton that has been grown in a sustainable manner. Ethical fashion is all set to become the "in" trend for conscious consumers who want to enjoy guilty-free clothing.

Carrots versus Sticks

Ruchira Shah — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 13:51:38 GMT

What motivates people? Carrots or sticks?

As an ethical consumer, I aim to use carrots, generally speaking. I try and persuade people that thrift shopping is awesome (which it totally is), that farmers' markets have delicious food (they really do), and that having less stuff can make you happier.

My goal is to appeal to people's sense of morality. And, you know, after about two years of living more ethically, I think it's working. Witness, the drop in plastic bag consumption in the UK. All because people like you and me just said no.

I've studied a number of sustainable cities, and I've become convinced that community involvement is integral to sustainability. On the other hand, when people are not involved, but change is imposed, they seem to reject it. For example, in Seattle, voters recently rejected a fee for plastic bags.

This suggests that our current attempts to deal with climate change by "putting a price on carbon" are simply misguided. If the public rejects a 20 cent fee on plastic bags, why would they agree to a carbon tax? And given that most industrialized countries are democracies, politicians simply cannot pass legislation so unpopular.

Instead of top down heavy-handed plans, we need more plans that appeal to people's better instincts. We need to motivate people to change their behavior instead of forcing them with a stick.

I agree that we need to move fast. I agree that climate change is a critical issue. But I also understand that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing time after time after time and expecting different results.

Climate activists have been largely pursuing the same goals since the 1992 Rio Earth Summit. And we're still nowhere close to achieving those goals.

Given this, isn't it time we try something new?

One Word: Plastics

Ruchira Shah — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:30:22 GMT

I have to admit, I think plastic is great. When used correctly this can be a life-saving product ... quite literally. (I'm pretty sure life preservers are plastic. Right?) So, while this ethical consumer is not anti-plastic, I am anti wasteful plastic consumption.

You see, plastic may be responsible for saving some lives over the years, but it has also resulted in the deaths of countless marine animals. Read the article "Plastic Ocean" and you'll see what I mean. The giant plastic patch of the ocean is not filled with life preservers or life-saving plastic hospital tubing. Instead it's filled with the more mundane plastic junk we jettison on a daily basis: soda can rings, plastic shopping bags, plastic bottles, etc.

As a result, I aim to reduce my plastic consumption as much as I can. If you'd like to reduce your plastic consumption as well, well, I'll tell you my secrets, but you have to promise to pass them on!!

In my tips for how to reduce plastic when you're out and about I suggest, among other things, keeping some wooden chopsticks in you purse for when you want to eat on the fly. I then covered how to reduce plastics while shopping. My secret there is fairly simple: farmers' markets, farmers' markets, farmers' markets. Oh yeah, and also, shop less! And then, for those of you who are super hardcore, I present my tips for going beyond the basics in reducing your plastic consumption. If you manage to follow all those tips, you'll be my new plastic-lite hero!

Now, I've given you my tips, but what do you think about plastic? Should plastic bags be banned or at least not free? Should we stop producing them altogether as Sara suggests? What place should plastic hold in society? Beth from Fake Plastic Fish and Greg from Plastics.com want to hear from you.

So join in the conversation and let everyone know how you feel about plastics. Are they an ingenious product or a huge problem for anyone attempting to engage in ethical consumption? Or is it something in between? You know what I think, but clearly, you'll have to decide on your own what level of plastic consumption is right for you and your family.