Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Sustainable Apps

It seems everyone and their dog has a smart phone these days. With all the technological advances that have happened recently, it is easier than ever to find ways to make your lifestyle more sustainable. Check out these neat sustainability oriented apps!


iRecycle

     Their website says that "recycling is the easiest and more accessible way to get people plugged into sustainability".  This app provides access to more than 800,000 recycling and disposable resources for more than 240 materials. If you have ever wondered "can I recycle this?", the answer can be found on this FREE app! 

Green Map
     This app will connect you with green resources where ever you go! Their website states that, "With unique global icons and adaptable tools, Green Map System has engaged communities worldwide in mapping green living, nature and cultural resources since 1995. Green Maps chart a sustainable future! Explore and get involved". 

Just Means
     Many companies around the globe are helping advance social and environmental sustainability, this app lets you find these businesses and see how they rank up against others. What a great way to support those    businesses that are concerned with these important issues! 

Seafood Watch
     Are you a seafood lover? This app from the Monterey Bay Aquarium provides recommendations for ocean-friendly seafood at your favorite restaurants and stores! This is a treasure trove of information about how each item should be fished or farmed. If you know of a business that uses sustainable seafood practices, this app lets you add them to let others know!

Green Globe
      This travel oriented app lets you find sustainable resorts, hotels, conference centers, attractions, tour experiences and wedding options. Be sure to download this FREE app before your next trip!



Food Guide
     Do you want to ensure only sustainable products are purchased by your family this year? Well then the Good Guide app will help you shop sensibly. Simply scan a product barcode to get a complete rundown of health, environmental, and responsibility ratings on a database collection of over 90,000 products and businesses worldwide.


Do you have any sustainable apps on your device? If so, please share in the comments :) 

Monday, November 12, 2012

Up-Cycleing Everyday Items

LandIf you are anything like me, you hate to throw anything away. After all, why waste materials that could be used in so many other ways! If you are looking to reuse everyday items you might be throwing away, look no further. Here are many resources that can inspire you and provide information about how to recycle "junk" into treasures. 
             Do you have any great up-cycleing projects? If so, please share! 

Tutorial for a quick and easy rustic vase from an upcycled glass bottle!
Click the picture to link to HipCycle, a great inspiration
board full of ideas for up-cycleing projects
mason jar sewing kit
Try the website upcyclethat.com . They
have projects for  all skill levels and interests. 
Do you have a lot of mason jars laying around?
Why notturn them into reusable soap dispensers?



Ever wondered what to do with all those
 old card? Why not make a fun picture frame! 

Thursday, November 1, 2012

Urban Edibles

Food
"A rose, by any other name, tastes just as sweet"  
       Most people love flowers, but did you know that many are actually edible? Your beautiful floral arrangements might actually be edible arrangements!
For recipes including Rose Scones and Bachelors Button Fritters click HERE
Benefits of eating homegrown fruits and veggies: 
  • Nutritional factors that are protective against cancer include antioxidants,fiber,and phytochemicals,which are chemicals in plants that may provide significant health benefits.
  • Eating fruits and vegetables has been shown to reduce the risk for cancers of esophagus,mouth,stomach,colon,rectum,lung,and prostate and it may also reduce the risk of breast cancer in pre-menopausal women.
  • Increasing your intake of whole grains,fruits,and vegetables,decreasing your intake of red meats and fatty meats,and maintaining a healthy weight level are keys to cancer prevention (recommended by the American Cancer Society).
  • Eating a diet high in saturated and trans fatty acids increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. By focusing ones diet on fresh fruits and vegetables will reduce the intake of fat from animal foods and other food items that are saturated with fat such as fast foods,bakery foods,chips,etc.
  • Dietary fats,both saturated and trans fats,are most highly correlated with an increased risk of heart disease because they increase blood cholesterol levels by altering the way cholesterol is removed from the blood.
  • Eating homegrown food also saves you money!
                                                                                         (source)