Nia Long for PETA!

As a fan of actress Nia Long, I was more than excited to see her in the latest PETA "Rather Go Naked Than Wear Fur" ad. Her animal rights activism was inspired by her children. She supports the PETA campaign and strives to be a role model for her children, fans, and the general public. Check out her interview with the PETA Files.

A GREEN Collar Economy

URGENT: Please watch and share this moving, hope inspiring video, and BE the change you want to see! Courtesy of GREEN for ALL

A step in the WRONG direction!

Turns out, our global efforts are not getting result in the fight to cut total CO2 emissions. In fact, the German Insitiute for Renewable Energy has concluded that we emitted 1.94% more CO2 in 2008 than in 2007. This global pollution problem is a real detriment to our environment. We can and must do better! According to the IWR, "For emissions to be effectively cut, nations need to link the amount invested in renewable energy to their emissions, and track effectiveness on an ongoing basis." (Courtesy of Environmental Leader)

Whole Foods now just a "BUNCH OF JUNK?"

The Whole Foods Company CEO, John Mackey, confessed to the WSJ Health Blog that "We sell a bunch of junk." It seems that somehow, the healthy organic food store has made an ugly transformation in to a not-so healthy candy and sweets shop. The proof is in the numbers. Their healthy, bulk foods such as “grains, seeds, nuts and beans” now only account for 1% of sales. Mackey said that this number has dropped from 15-20%. Moreover, today the average Whole Foods Market can be classified as a "food boutique," littered with specialty treats and desserts. From the moment you grab your shopping cart and enter the store to the moment you are greeted by the cashier at checkout, shoppers are overwhelmed by all of the enticing displays of cookies, sugary fruit snacks, and mounds of milk chocolate. Whole Foods even sales a brand of chocolate with BACON infused inside. Yes! I witnessed my cousin try it in the store (simply upon request) then proceed to purchase several packages in different sizes.

I have definitely notice this transformation in WF myself. Now, when I shop there, I have to make a conscious effort not avoid the sweets aisle and bakery corner and stick to my list, or as best as possible. I don't like this WF alter-ego JF, Junk Foods Market. But, it is important to note that the CEO (of all people) is well aware of the chain's character flaw and has a tentative plan of action. He stated, "Customers, we hope, are going to vote them out. You’re just seeing the most tentative efforts at this point because the details are not ready for public release. You need to be fair. I’ve got to plan the revolution." Basically, The Whole Foods Market brand is at the mercy of its shoppers. WE must demand healthy foods at the Whole Foods Market and shop else where for junk!

Timberland cleans up their footprint in the Amazon

The leading manufacturer and retailer of leather boots and shoes announced today that they will work to reduce their ecological footprint in the rain forest and partner with their Brazilian leather suppliers in their efforts. The suppliers must be in agreement with the company by August 15th in order to maintain their working relationship with Timberland. Notably, they are the second major shoe manufacturer, behind Nike, within this year, to reevaluate their supply chain and its effect on the environment. Well I wonder why? For decades these companies did not own up to their influences on their suppliers and the communities and natural environments in which they operated. Now, there is no denying their abuse of natural resources. we will definitely have to stay informed about the company's progress in cleaning up the Amazon Biome. To do so, you can check out their eco-friendly blog or for a more different perspective see GreenBiz.com

WOW. Bravo JT!

Singer, actor Justin Timberlake has set the bar pretty high in green golfing and now owns America's first golf course with a Audubon International Classic Sanctuary distinction. Located in his hometown, Memphis, TN, Mirimichi was his childhood golf course where he first learned to play the game. In 2007 Timberlake and his family bought the property and are now working towards LEED Platinum certification for the building in 2011. Mirimichi means "place of happy retreat." This is an excellent attraction for the city of Memphis. Justin Timberlake and his family have invested they're resources into a local treasure, making it GREEN and sustainable.

Good News!

According to the ScienceDaily, we decreased our overall energy consumption in 2008. Likewise, "Americans used more solar, nuclear, biomass and wind energy in 2008 than they did in 2007, according to the most recent energy flow charts."--ScienceDaily (2009-07-20)

Support it any way YOU can

I discovered this magazine while paying for my groceries at the Whole Foods Market yesterday. I was drawn to it by the brightly colored cover and simple yet perfect title. Admittedly, I did not buy it. Yes, I would have loved to support this developing brand, but the price of the magazine was not in my budget. Moreover, in this struggling economy, I have found that it is easier to support the GREEN movement by planning ahead. For example, this magazine is seasonal. I learned that from their simple yet perfect website. It is filled with environmental facts and tips on how to achieve a greener lifestyle. Moral of this story; Whether you purchase the magazine or register with their website, you will be showing your support for this company and their GREEN cause.

Also, checkout this article on going GREEN and finding personal balance.

The Bay vs. The Bag

Reason #87 why we ALL need to do our part. Limit the use of disposable shopping bags. REMEMBER to REUSE!