You’ve heard natural products are better for you, and toothpaste is no exception. But have you really learned why? We’ve compiled a list of some of the most concerning chemicals found in non-natural toothpaste that have many people searching for a cleaner product, or making their own! Read on to find out what they are, why they’re not so great, and where you can find information on alternatives to buy or make.
In the ethical lifestyle movement, people are moving away from the production line to the artisan, favoring human hands over machines. It’s not so surprising; multiple studies have shown the strong links between being creative and general well-being. Fortunately, what's good for us is also good for the planet: many artisan crafters use more sustainable materials, and generate less waste.
The Ocean Cleanup is a project centered around a brand new technology, invented by young Dutch entrepreneur Boyan Slat. It uses the same natural currents that consolidate garbage into large patches to find and collect the debris, where it's later picked up by barges and recycled. This technology could greatly reduce the amount of pollution that eventually breaks down into microplastics, which have harmful effects that cascade up the food chain.
For Americans who have set intentions and personal goals around reducing impact—by buying eco-friendly products or cutting energy use—the news of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris agreement may be disappointing. But this change has actually inspired many powerful entities to kick their current planet-cleaning efforts into high gear. The trajectory doesn't have to change simply because of a formality. The movement starts with everyday people: buyers and consumers.
Cassidy is the co-founder of ethical clothing company Wakened Apparel, and popular eco-conscious product reviewer at @life_simplified. We had the privilege of hearing in her own words what simple living has done for her, and all the surprising ways she’s learned to go green and actually save money doing it! Cassidy explains why she loves what she does, and busts the myth that eco-friendly living is too expensive.
You’ve probably heard that eating seasonally is a good idea. But do you know all the reasons why? Francesca Willow, creator of the ethical lifestyle blog “Ethical Unicorn”, shares some surprising insights into why syncing your eating to the season is great for the environment, and even better for your body.
In 2012 Mat and Danielle quit their nine-to-fives, sold their house (and virtually everything else), and began to call their van home sweet home. Since then, they’ve been living the “van life” all over Canada and the U.S., and chronicling the entire journey through their social media project “Exploring Alternatives”. In their years on the road, they’ve learned there’s a lot to love (and some stuff that’s not so great) about this extreme minimalist lifestyle.