CustomEarthPromos - Eco Blog US

Holidays are a great time to indulge in some family gatherings, shopping, dinner parties and exchanging gifts. But with so much happening around, it is quite obvious that you may end up with overflowing trash cans too. Though you cannot avoid having a good time during the holidays just to prevent trash, you can always cut back on it by following certain eco-friendly practices. This will ensure that you get to celebrate without actually doing much harm to the environment. 'Green' Tips for a Fulfilling Holiday Season These eco-friendly tips are not too hard to follow, but will help in the long run not only in keeping the environment clean, but also helping you save a few dollars. No celebration is complete without gifts. So the next time you are out buying some gifts for your loved ones, why not focus on presenting them something sustainable? How about gifts made from recycled glass, paper, plastic or metal? Or you can invest in gifts that can actually be used, say candles, food or soap. Reusable colorful grocery bags are a good option too and so are eco-friendly promotional items. Many companies come out with such eco-friendly promotional items during the holiday season, so you can find plenty of options. You can cover your gifts with eco-friendly options like newspaper or fabric items. Reusable gift bags can also be used. Instead of using gift wrap paper from stores, you can switch to these options which are a lot more environment friendly and will hardly cost you anything. You can also combine these gifts with a handmade greeting card which will add a personal touch while keeping them pocket and environment friendly. Decorations are also an important aspect of holiday celebrations. Instead of spending a ton on lighting, you can opt for LED lights or even natural candles for that matter. Another way you can light up the holiday season is by donating. This does not mean you only need to help under privileged people with some clothes or money. You can help anyone in any form. You can offer to babysit someone or give away items that you don't need any more to your friends or family members. Celebrating the Holiday Season with Eco-Friendly Promotional Items During the holiday season, markets are flooded with variety of options for decorations, gifts, lighting and so on. If you are already on the eco-friendly path, one wonderful thing you can do this season is spread awareness about sustainable lifestyle among people around you. You can begin by using eco-friendly promotional items available in the market for spreading the idea. Source

While most towns and cities in the nation are going eco-friendly by banning plastic bags, here is one city that is still not ready to make the shift. Though Milpitas has come out with its proposal to eliminate the clutter created by plastic bags, the city council does not seem too keen to implement it for now. Milpitas City Council Rejects Plastic Bag Ban Proposal The City Council recently rejected this bag ban proposal with a vote of 3-2. The ordinance talked about implementing a citywide ban on one-time use plastic bags in retail stores, excluding food establishments. The main reason for the rejection is said to have been the inconvenience and the expense that it would cause the local businesses to stick to the ban. Before the vote was passed, both the supporters and opponents of the ordinance were given the opportunity to put forward their stand. Supporters included Californians Against Waste, the Sierra Club and even school children. The opponents, mostly including the local businesses, felt that the ban would unnecessarily impact the retailers negatively while also penalizing the residents unfairly. In case the proposal would have been accepted, in addition to one-time use plastic bags, even paper bags with post-consumer recycled material of less than 40 percent would have been banned. Instead, paper bag with post-consumer recycled material of minimum 40 percent would have been made available. Consumers would have to pay 10 cents in the first year of the implementation of the ban and 25 cents after the second year for these bags. However there would be an exemption on restaurants as well as the bags used for handing out produce, meat and pharmacy items. While the supporters were unhappy with the city being one of the few with no such ban, the opponents believed that charging people for not carrying reusable bags would not help in long run. According to them such a proposal won't help much as people would start shopping from neighboring areas which do not have any ban on plastic bags. Why Milpitas Should Opt for Plastic Bag Ban? The nuisance created by plastic bags is seen in most cities that do not have any plastic bag ban. These plastic bags are not only harmful for the environment as they are non-biodegradable, but also pose a major threat to the life of birds and animals. Wholesale reusable bags, on the other hand work much better than plastic bags. Plus they can always be recycled. Source

Most people who oppose plastic bag bans are of the opinion that these bans affect businesses in a negative way. They believe that bans on plastic bags prevent people from shopping from stores that support the ban and charge consumers for paper or reusable bags. Some residents even go to the extent of shopping from nearby towns which do not have any such ban. But is that really the case? A recent survey had something else to say. Most People Support Reusable Shopping Bags, Says the Survey A consumer survey was recently conducted to know the reaction of people towards the ban on plastic bags in Barrington which was implemented in January. Looking at the positive feedback that the ban has received, Newport too is considering the idea of implementing a plastic bag ban in the city. This survey was completed by four students of Roger Williams University under the guidance of professor Joseph Roberts, who teaches political science. This online survey saw the participation of close to 360 people. Of them, 56 percent were in support of the ban while 38 percent were unhappy with it. Recycled reusable shopping bags were most of the times selected by around 200 people for making up for plastic bags, as per the survey. Around 150 people used paper bags over plastic bags, most of the time. Approximately 60 percent of the people continued shopping in the city just like they did before the ban was implemented. This suggests that most people have accepted the ban and are not trying to find alternative shopping stores in other cities that do not follow the ban. The survey also made certain other revelations. It said that around 65 percent of people do not support the idea of charging fee on paper bags provided at the checkout. Also, before the implementation of the ban, most people either carried their own plastic or reusable bags, very few carried paper bags. Newport Can Go Ahead with Using Recycled Reusable Shopping Bags This positive response towards plastic bag ban shows that most people are open to the idea of using recycled reusable shopping bags rather than plastic bags. The harm caused to the environment by plastic bags is not hidden anymore, which drives most people in giving up on such bags. Most of the residents of Newport are already aware of the benefits of reusable bags and are willing to welcome any such ban on plastic bags. Source

Small eco-friendly efforts by people collectively result in bringing in big changes that help the environment. But what helps the most is when big businesses and professionals come together to save the environment with eco-friendly innovations. The concept of ‘green building' has been around for some time now, but who were the people who actually helped in making the idea successful? Here is a list of few eco-friendly architects of the nation who have been creating some beautiful and sustainable masterpieces. Architects and Companies Following the 'Eco-Friendly' Trend Janet Harrison is not just an architect, but is also said to be one of the leading green design consultants of the country. She studied at University of Maryland and completed her bachelor's degree from here. Presently she designs educational, residential as well as small commercial facilities. She follows a sustainable approach for all the buildings that she designs and makes sure that they all have a low environmental impact. She does this by incorporating energy efficient heating along with solar energy and cooling materials in the building. Green Building Architect is another company that tries its best to keep the environment safe and green. It develops residential and commercial buildings which have minimal environmental impact. Four of its major goals include conservation of natural resources and energy, minimization of construction site waste as well as its impact, creation of healthy environment indoors and creation of beautiful structures. Morphosis Architects is another eco-friendly company which works towards creation of infrastructure which is sustainable as well as low impact, two factors which are important in fighting global warming. One of the best works of the company is FLOAT House in New Orleans which is LEED Platinum certified and the annual energy consumption rate of this one comes to net-zero. William McDonough is famous not just in the US but in the whole world for his sustainable designing approach. He has also been awarded by the Time magazine as the ‘Hero for the Planet'. Get the Best out of Eco-Friendly Promotional Items Such eco-friendly initiatives will definitely help the planet in the long run. Another thing that businesses and large companies can do is come out with eco-friendly promotional items that can serve also as a reminder for people to do their bit for the environment. Not only will they help the environment but also prove to be profitable for the companies. Source

Pet owners need to watch out while taking their pets out for a customary walk that gives the pets a chance to relieve themselves as well. To put it bluntly, you can no longer leave behind a trail of dog's fecal matter, imagining that it can in no way be traced back to you. Whoever thought of such a possibility? Maybe someone who stepped on a pile of dog poop did, or it was the brainchild of one of the condo managers who had to face the wrath of people complaining. It is all to do about having stepped on something in the hallway or elevator, or in the lawn or park – or just wherever. Pet owners can no longer get away without cleaning up after their pets are done. You don't need CCTV camera footings to show as evidence; we are more technically advanced today. Recycled pet bags are a good option The members of the maintenance staff team at Devon Wood, a 350-acre property have set the trend by resorting to advanced DNA monitoring techniques to trace the culprits. Your dog is unique and so is his or her poop. Hence think of a more sensible way like using recycled pet bags and save yourself the trouble and the dishonor of being caught red-handed, well almost. This DNA monitoring technique is scientific and one hundred percent reliable, so, beware pet owners. The next time your pet shows signs of getting the urge, just reach out for the recycled pet bag and do your bit to keep the surroundings clean, and the environment a lot greener. Recycled pet bags are a good option The same sentiments were echoed by Barbara Kensky who manages a 398-unit condo complex in the town of Braintree. They have adopted the DNA monitoring system as early as July, which resulted in a marked absence of waste that left them pleasantly flabbergasted. Gentle reminders, letters or notices have not done the trick, in spite of eyewitnesses reporting specific instances. The owners would simply demand proof that it was their pets that did it. However, when confronted with irrefutable evidence in the form of a DNA report, the errant owners had no other go but to admit. Pet owners also realize that it makes sense to use recycled pet bagsand save themselves and their pets the ignominy of being accused of acting irresponsibly and without civic sense. No more skipping without cleaning up, and remembering to use recycled pet bags is certainly going to leave everyone in the neighborhood happy.  Source

It is the holiday season, and there is a nip in the air, and excitement all around. People are busy making preparations to celebrate Christmas, some planning the gifts they wish to give, and some making eco-friendly home decoration for their homes. This is the time when warmth and cheer are spread with enthusiasm and hope. Celebrate This Christmas with Eco-Friendly Home Decoration A marked difference in this year's flourish of festive activities reflects the increasing need to preserve nature, and protect the environment. Everyone seems to be chipping in any way they can contribute towards a safe and clean environment, with the emphasis on the need to keep the planet green. There is a new way to spread warmth and cheer in your homes without using up too much energy. One option is to choose candles that are slightly different from the traditional ones you are used to. Ask specifically for the ones that are made without using any byproduct of petroleum, like paraffin, and ones that produce least soot. The new candles also have wicks that are free of lead or zinc. As per U.S. environmental agency studies, the traditional candles with such toxic products can pollute the air beyond the permissible limits, causing you harm without your knowledge. Another favorite that is an inevitable part of any Christmas celebration is the mistletoe, which is believed to create those special moments of bonding at home. However, the truth is that over 20 varieties of mistletoe have already made it to the endangered species list. So, take care while selecting a twig for yourself, and make sure you pick one of the two that are native to the United States. However, consolation lies in the fact that there are over 1,300 varieties that still exist. Go for Eco-Friendly Home Decorations This Festive Season No holiday season can be complete without a family gathering in front of the traditional hearth. However, real fires have long since been replaced with gas fires, and one hardly ever comes across a log fire anymore. This is one step towards conserving trees; however, the other option with gas fires is to use fire glass. A product of glass crystals that is devoid of any toxins, glass fires help preserve the heat for longer periods. While it doesn't actually burn, it produces more heat than wood, and is smokeless and odorless, making it the perfect choice for a group of people celebrating in confined space. With the clock already ticking, and the increasing awareness about global warming reaching most homes, it is time to switch to eco-friendly promotional itemsthis season.  Source

If you are heading to Long Beach, you would better carry some reusable bags with you. The city council of Long Beach passed a two year ban on plastic bags in the year 2011. This ordinance banned single use plastic bags completely and also placed a minimum price requirement of ten cents for paper bags. Residents Reaction Towards the Plastic Bag Ban Long Beach is the largest city in Los Angeles County with a plastic bag ban. These single use plastic bags were phased out gradually from this city which is home to almost 500,000 people. This ban was imposed with the view to tackle the plastic debris which was finding its way to landfills and oceans, posing a threat to the environment. People have their own views about this two year old ban and the way it has affected their lives. Vernetta Foote, a resident says that they don't like it, but follow it because it is the law. One store had violated the law in 2011, but in reality none of the stores were really happy with the law. The Styrofoam containers that have replaced plastic bags are also single use and cannot be recycled. Robert Balthasar, another resident of Long Beach, is of the opinion that this ban is simply another tax along with the ones that are imposed on the residents of the city. He thinks that this practice will have a minimal impact on the protection of environment. He added that water bottles and gulp containers found on all streets are more of a problem than plastic bags, which citizens use responsibly in any case. A better idea would be to make use of wholesale reusable bags. Raquel Jubran feels that this ban really doesn't help anyone as she used plastic bags from stores to line her trash cans and now she has to, but plastic bags for the same purpose. She also has to pay for the bags she gets from stores, which are of plastic, after all. Promoting Wholesale Reusable Bags During the Plastic Bag Ban Grocery stores and all other stores could make use of wholesale reusable bags so that citizens don't regret paying for them. It is also the duty of the residents to support the ban on plastic bags so that the environment stays clean and green. Such efforts cannot be successful unless citizens support them completely. They must come forward and adopt alternate means like reusable bags to make their shopping easier as well as eco-friendly. There are plenty of reusable bags which are not only environment friendly, but look trendy also. Source

California has been facing the problem of single-use plastic bags ending up in the ocean and landfills. Some cities have passed regulations restricting the use of these bags, but there still remains a lot to be done if California has to be a clean and green state in the true sense. Implementing the Ban on the Whole State Davis city has recently voted to ban single-use plastic ban and the city of Sacramento is about to follow suit soon. As more and more Californian cities move forward in joining the anti single-use plastic bag brigand, there is a growing need to look at the laws and the problem in implementation of the same. Shoppers in Davis are encouraged to bring their own reusable bags and those who don't bring their own bags and ask stores for bags, are charged ten cents for each recycled bag made of paper or a plastic reusable bag. Businesses failing to adhere to regulations are fined. Davis city went ahead with this bill on its own after waiting for quite some time for a statewide bill to be passed. Studies suggest that Californians use almost 20 billion plastic bags annually. Out of this, only 5% are recycled. Millions of dollars are spent to clean up the litter and many plastic bags end up in the ocean, harming precious marine life. Just as the problem is statewide, the solution should also be for the whole state, instead of separate regulations for individual cities. Phasing out plastic bags is good for the environment as well as for the economy as it could provide a bigger market for better quality recycled bags. Banning single use plastic bags and emphasizing usage of reusable bags will help cut down on environmental pollution and recycling costs. A statewide law encompassing all cities will be a better option than bans in single cities. Opting for Recycled Bags The regulation of replacing single-use plastic bags with recycled bags must be adopted in a smart manner. At present, California spends about twenty five million dollars annually to dump discarded plastic bags in landfills. These bags also end up in streams as well as oceans and pollute coastal regions. Using recycled bags would mean that this money could be used for other important causes which benefit the public. After all it is taxpayers' money and should be used for them in an appropriate manner instead of being spent on cleaning up litter. Recycled bags can be the perfect solution to this problem. Source

With ‘eco-friendly' being the toast of the season, everyone wants to jump on to the bandwagon and is either using or creating eco-friendly products. But who would have thought of handbags made of recycled military materials? But here they are, two military wives, who have made this possible. Meet Lisa Dobbs and Cameron Cruise whose story is a really inspiring one. Handbags that are stylish as well as environment friendly These two women are a perfect combination of style and business sense. They met in Georgia, where their husbands were training as army rangers. They bonded over the common grounds which most military spouses have – frequent cross country moves, challenging lifestyles, the motive to create an outlet for their creativity as well as other women like them, and the desire to create an opportunity of self-reliance which would complement their mobile military lives. All of this gave birth to their joint venture which now boasts of a strong workforce. All military spouses, who make and sell handcrafted handbags. The interesting fact is that these bags are made of recycled military materials. Theirs is an online business and borrows its name, R.RIVETER from a female worker of the World War II who was popular for her patriotic works. This is an example of their community feeling and the pride of association with the military. Their handbags are also symbolic of their lifestyle, which is a combination of challenges and opportunities. Within two years of being in business, they have added leather bags and wallets for men and stamped dog-collars to their repertoire. Their handbags are sturdy, stylish, functional, and very aptly named after famous military spouses. They have proved that every challenge that life throws at you can be transformed into an opportunity. They are not only helping many women find a satisfying career, but also helping save the environment with their original eco-friendly promotional items as these bags are made completely from recycled material. Making use of eco-friendly promotional items The story of R.RIVETER is bound to motivate many of you to do something that not only helps you realize your dream, but also provides an employment opportunity for many others and at the same time, helps save the planet. More and more businesses should come forward to create such eco-friendly promotional items. This is not only their social responsibility, but also their duty towards future generations. Using such items for business promotion is also a good way of associating with the noble cause of saving the earth and handing over a clean and safe planet to our children. Source

Encinitas has taken a hint from all the cities around it that are going eco-friendly. But it will not blindly follow the plastic bag ban ordinance implemented by other cities. Instead, it will come up with its own ordinance that will help the city in the best possible way in attacking the plastic bag issue. The City Council recently decided that it won't be waiting for the vote of the state legislators and will proceed with its bag ban. Encinitas in a hurry to go green Councilwoman, Lisa Shaffer, in a recent meeting said that the environment cannot wait anymore for the legislators to come up with a decision. The council, however, plans on creating a bag ban that will be on similar lines with the ordinance of Solana Beach which was implemented in 2012. According to the bag ban in effect in Solana Beach food vendors, grocery stores, retail stores and pharmacies are not allowed to use plastic bags. Also they are mandated to charge their customers a fee of 10 cent for every paper bag that they take from the store. This decision of not waiting for the state legislators was opposed by a couple of council members, but majority of them considered this to be a better option. They said that it is time to act. But it may still take a few months before stores and customers have to accept this change as there is still a lot of work pending related to the ban implementation. Firstly the city officials will have to come up with their draft of the ordinance that has been proposed, after that it will have to be approved by the City Council. Then the ordinance will have to pass through an environmental review which can take anywhere around three months. This means that the ban may not come into effect till mid-2014. Making the shift towards recycled grocery bags This gap in the time period can actually benefit the stores and customers as they will get plenty of time to understand the proposed ban as well as comply with it. People can start getting into the habit of carrying recycled grocery bags every time they are out shopping as this will help them in getting used to this change by the time the ban comes into place. Not only will this help the environment, but will also make the ban successful. Source