Pleasantly Surprising Selection
I just heard about Better World.com about five minutes ago. It’s a source for buying used books (and when the library isn’t good enough, used is next best). Additionally they donate money to literacy programs, are a carbon neutral company, and seem downright good for the planet and the people on it. Surely the obscure books I’m interested in wouldn’t be available right? I’m happy to be wrong. I checked for three books on my wish list (which are pretty random…not sure one of them is even in print anymore) and 2 out of 3 were available. I’d say that’s pretty darn impressive. That got me thinking that the popular book selection would leave potential customers disappointed. However The da Vinci Code, Harry Potter 6, and and the newest Michael Crichton book, Next, were all available used. When a used copy of a book isn’t available you can purchase a new one, so it’s important to pay attention if you’re looking to go the eco-friendlier path. All in all it seems like a good service and an ethical business. I’ll refrain from assigning a grade since I haven’t made an order yet (maybe when we’re less broke). But I’m very optimistic. via: Treehugger, via Planet Green
Drip…drip…drip…mini update and review
Some may remember that I was considering investing in a Sigg water bottle a while back. Well I did. And I’m super pleased with the decision. I ordered a .6 L bottle for water and a .3 L bottle for juice to bring in my packed lunches (see below for pics). I also got a different lid for my .6 L. It claims to be leak proof…and it really is! I haven’t gotten any stinky smells in them and they’re very lightweight. Plus the designs make me happy. My .6 L one is like wearing a badge that says “tree hugger” and the .3 L is covered in cute baby arctic animals. That one will get passed to my kids when I actually have some. I’m not just satisfied with these reusable bottles, I’m thrilled. A+
Recycline: Preserve Toothbrush
Last time Mr. E and I needed new toothbrushes I roped him into trying Recycline’s Preserve Toothbrush. I love the concept, especially the part about sending the toothbrush back to the company for recycling. But soft was the only bristle available in the store. Medium is the highest it goes. I prefer to brush with a stronger bristle for two reasons: my teeth feel cleaner, and harder bristles discourage hard brushing which can be bad for your gums. Mr. E doesn’t like the soft bristles either. Neither of us feel like our mouth is ever all the way clean. I give it an A- for concept, but a C+ for selection. You’d think with the many color options they provide the least they could do is offer a stiffer bristle. In the future I may try one of the toothbrushes available now that allow you to replace only the head, instead of the handle which helps eliminate waste. As great as recycling is, it’s even better if there’s less waste to begin with.
