GREENCulture blog We put the “green” in greenyness!

If Starbucks and Coffee Bean were involved in a mud wrestling contest, it is likely that Starbucks would beat the Bean with its incredible profits and sheer, goliath size. But although the chain may edge out another chain through numbers, Coffee Bean would win in an eco-friendly WWF smackdown (we mean the World Wildlife Foundation, not the other kind). As of May 2007, all Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf restaurants are going green for good. According to their estimates, they will save over five thousand trees per year by replacing their napkins and paper towels with post consumer recycled paper, as well as over seventeen million watts of energy by switching to environmentally sustainable practices. Check out dinegreen.com to find the nearest Coffee Bean to you, as well as to find other green restaurants in your area or in places you might be traveling to this summer.

Seaweed has long been known for its ability to tangle itself around one’s leg while casually swimming; it’s also had extremely beneficial nutritional values. It’s found in everything, from toothpaste to ice cream to sticks of salty sea goodness at Asian supermarkets. In this case, the 100% Pure Purifying Seaweed Facial Mask uses seaweed’s antioxidants and vitamin C to help repair damaged skin and detoxify pores, as well as generally make everything feel cleaner and fresher. It also contains green clay and peppermint leaves for a refreshing boost, and it’s entirely natural and vegan. Move over, California rolls—this seaweed is going on my face.

…if you want to save gas. According to this article found on Treehugger.com and cited on Discovery.com thanks to Mythbusters, if you drive or draft closely behind a big rig, you’re sure to save some gas by reducing wind drag - as long as you have enough reaction time to save your own life when necessary. Read on and decide who would win the battle of saving gas if you’re tailgaing :thisclose: to the big rig in front of you.

Some eco-friendly travel tips for the green inside every globe trekker:
• Instead of using paper tickets, book flights online or through the telephone.
• Before planning an extended vacation, make sure to discontinue the newspaper
• Reduce the heat on the hot water tank, lower the thermostat, and unplug all electronics
• While traveling, try to use public transportation rather than renting a vehicle; using a bike or walking can be an adventure on its own as well
• Search for hotels that are eco-friendly (use ECOTEL to find resorts that are environmentally sensitive)
• Use rechargeable batteries rather than alkaline ones
• Pack LIGHT!

For more information: TravelTips

Next Week: ideal locations for eco-friendly adventures

As an oily-skinned twentysomething, I find the task of eliminating acne from my face a daunting task. One would think pimples would stop growing past the college years, but they persist on showing up, ugly and red and swollen, like Joan Rivers at the Oscars. However, I was able to find my new obsession: Nelson’s Acne Gel. This Brit-based homeopathic company uses organically grown plants in their products; this gel contains no petroleum or animal products, and the tea tree oil and sulfur help pack a punch in this powerful acne treatment. Use all over or on stubborn spots to naturally watch those nasty zits fade away. Best of all is the price: for less than $6, this is an eco-friendly hit you can’t miss.

Even though the California Coastal Act of 1976 ensures access for ALL people to the state’s beautiful coastline, owners of ocean-front homes, especially in Malibu, have taken to posting bogus ‘No Parking’ signs, building illegal fences, and removing ‘Beach Access’ signs. All of this, of course, is to keep us commoners off of the beaches that happen to sit outside their multi-million dollar homes. This story is not new, of course, but the lack of funding for the agency that’s responsible for policing California’s most important natural resource was news to me. Read the full story here and plan your next beach party in Malibu…just because you can.

Ecotourism is on the rise globally as individuals seek out more eco-friendly ways to travel and spend their vacation days. Among the fastest growing traveling trends, eco-tours currently represent 5% of the overall U.S. travel and tourism market, with expeditions heading to Hawaii and Alaska ranking among highest.

Several benefits of eco-tours noted by geo-travelers around the world include more ‘genuine’ and educational experiences, gaining a better understanding of the particular culture in which they are immersed in, and simply acquiring a greater appreciation for the environment.

Ecotourism, defined as “Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and improves the welfare of local people” (TIES, 1990), ranges from staying in tropical tents along the beach, kayak guides in Belize, horseback riding along the surfs of Jamaica, and a wide variety of other adventures that offer travelers a more intimate relationship with the local communities. Often times, a portion of the profits gained by programs providing eco-tours go to local non-profit organizations supporting community growth and development.

Tripling since 2004, ecotourism is growing rapidly and will surely become one of the many alternatives to vacations in front of the TV. Stay tuned for more tips on eco-friendly traveling.

If Tarzan and Jane could see these treehouses, boy would they be green with envy! Treehugger.com has posted this awesome story about Seattle-based TreeHouse Workshop, a carpentry company that utilizes reclaimed wood to build your fantasy-inspired treehouse, with some that come with plumbing, bathrooms, and even fireplaces! And I’m sure by special request they’ll even add in some vines for those Tarzan bellowing moments.

Healthy skin comes from within, but also with a little help. For those with a slightly more “Crayola Red” complexion that they would like, try the Juice Beauty Soothing Serum. This certified organic treatment comes packed with antioxidants like raspberry juice, licorice, grape seed oil and bearberry botanicals to help soothe irritated skin. Apply all over your face and neck, and let nature work its magic by alleviating redness and softening your skin. Plus, it works with sensitive skin and works overtime to add more protection to your sunscreen.

Stella McCartney has long been committed to environmental issues, so it’s no surprise that her skincare line is made with completely organic active ingredients. Both luxurious and eco-conscious, all of her concoctions follow vegan principles while effectively nurturing your skin. Try the Purifying Foam Cleanser, which takes off everything while leaving skin as soft as five hundred count Egyptian cotton sheets. Or opt for the lush 5 Benefits Moisturising Fluid, with five organic extracts concentrated into one lightweight yet fully firming cream.