Items tagged “Eco-friendly”

Time magazine’s “Curious Capitalist” Rana Foroohar penned these words that always seem to elicit sighs of relief from some quarters and cheers from others: “Made in the USA is making a comeback.” Having products made in The States not only supports local communities, but also provides other tangible benefits. Quality control is high on that list: a quick walk down to the factory floor can straighten out an issue. Small quantities of well-made products can be created without trouble. Plus, more customers are interested in purchasing US goods. Companies that continue to provide goods made in the USA, like Alex Marshall Studios, Little Korboose, Connor’s Kits for Kids, and Harrisville Designs, are staying strong.

How do you ensure that the books you stock are winners and not wannabes? Start with tales that kids already enjoy — like the ones told by their parents or caregivers. “The stories started with trips to places I had been lucky enough to have visited,” begins Nabila Khashoggi, author of the new Spartan and the Green Egg series. The debut book in the series, A Trip to the Rainforest, weaves together a compelling story about a circle of friends and environmental concerns. Elements of pure imagination entice young readers: the Green Egg is an alien spaceship that uses power and technology to help friends Spartan (with rescued canine sidekick Grimm), Tor, Katie, and Max on their journey.

When we eat food that is locally grown, we reduce our carbon footprint by cutting back on the cost and impact of importing food from far away. Reducing the need for long-distance trucking cuts back on greenhouse gas emissions so altogether it’s a win-win. Preserving local character is good every way you look at it. Many consumers subscribe to this philosophy so, by offering them clothing for kids that emulates these ideals, retailers can support their existing values — another win-win. Locally Grown Clothing Co. embraces the resurgence of farmers’ markets, local agriculture, and ideals of traditional craftsmanship and Americana.

Earth Divas supports artisans in developing countries and is dedicated to bringing to market fair trade, handmade, sustainable products that are of superior quality. Earth Divas was founded with a vision to create a business that would benefit the environment as well as the individuals who manufacture the products for sale in the United States. From the early days of selling retail via their website and shipping orders from their garage, Earth Divas has transitioned to a wholesale business and increased their focus on fair trade made products, joined the Fair Trade Federation and expanded their warehouse and fulfillment operation to match their ambition.

What does a new mother need most? A third set of hands? A night of uninterrupted sleep? Enough time for a quick shower? “Yes” is the answer to all these questions, but here’s an item that will also win an approval shout-out. Poncho Baby is the answer to how to modestly nurse a baby in public any time anywhere, even when Mom and tot are out and about. The innovative design that covers both a woman’s front and her back allows Mom to keep an eye on her baby while she’s feeding. It is also a very useful garment for nursing women to use when pumping breast milk at work.