[ECO]: Greening Your Office

Eco Tips for The Workplace

Image Source: Jeff Sheldon from Unsplash

Being green in your home is one thing, but carrying it through to your workplace is fantastic! How does one go about greening your office? Well here are a few tips I've put together for you:

1) At the offices I currently work at, we've implemented a recycling system so we all sort our trash into paper; plastic; tin and glass and this gets picked up once a week. Try google companies that will come pick up your recycling for you, or where you can drop it off. 

2) Need to print out documents? We use scrap paper (paper that's already been printed on the one side). Better yet though, try go as digital as possible. 

3) Unfortunately, some documents still need to be printed out in this digital day and age, so try make sure the paper you're buying is recycled paper. 

4) Keep files on computer (make sure to back it up though) instead of file cabinets.

5) When using the copier/printer, use it on draft mode or 'eco' mode as some new copiers have. You'll save on ink and try print on both sides.

6) Power down. Unplug your chargers when they are not being used, switch off unnecessary lights and when leaving work make sure your computer has shut down and is not just on 'sleep mode'. 

7) Use compact fluorescent bulbs. This uses less electricity. Also try and use as much natural light as possible. This can even be achieved by having light coloured decor which helps reflect light. 

8) Find out who stays in your area and carpool to work - your petrol tank will be much happier!

9) Green you office with small indigenous plants, helps emit oxygen into the air and gives the office a friendlier appeal. 

10) Inquire about using green cleaning products in the bathrooms and kitchens. 

Hope these tips have helped? Let me know if you have any great eco tips for the office?

Love Always, The Glam Green Girl xXx

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Reuse: Light Bulbs

Reusing Light Bulbs

Here's a few ideas on how to reuse old light bulbs! In the world of being green there are 3 important R's:

Recycle

Reuse

Reduce

So instead of throwing out your old light bulbs, let your imagination soar and create something quirky; fun; useful or decorative!

I'm definitely going to reuse my old light bulbs as a vase, love the idea and think it looks so pretty!

Have you reused your old light bulbs?

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REVIEW: Sparitual: Meditate Collection

Meditate: Spring 2013 Collection

I was thrilled when I was sent some products from the new range by Sparitual. I had seen the nail polish a few times in some health stores but never got around to buying one (even though I always questioned myself 'why didn't I buy it?' each time I left the store).

Before I tell you more about the 2013 Spring Collection, let me tell you more about Sparitual.

Sparitual nail lacquer are vegan (they use Mica in their shimmers instead of Guanin, which is fish scales). They are also free of DBP; toulene; formaldehyde and formaldehyde resin - YAY for being toxin-free! Also, the bottle of nail lacquer is made in Italy from reusable glass with up to 50% recycled materials and is recyclable with proper care!

Meditate Collection:

I already feel calmer when I look at this collection (interesting how the colours can affect you). Sparitual believe that colour has the physiological power to soothe or seduce, nurture or ignite. You can definitely tell that the designers of this collection hit the nail on the head in terms of it igniting a meditative state of mind.

I was sent the colours 'Energy' and 'Calm and Clear' but when I painted my nails for this post I did a terrible job and was way too embarrased to post it ;) but will redo them soon and post it for you. 

I've seen the brand at a few health shops and spas but you can also get them online at style36 and at Faithful To Nature 

Which colour is your favourite?

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Red Carpet Green Dress - Oscars 2013

Eco - Fashion at the 2013 Academy Awards

Last year, I blogged about the Red Carpet Green Dress campaign - read about it here - and how they were bringing sustainable fashion to the red carpet.

This year, Michael Badger, won the competition and created the gorgeous gown for the "Skyfall" actress, Naomie Harris.

Photo Credit: Matthew Hinchcliffe (link)

Badger, born in Ghana, was mentored by the Legendary designer Dame Vivienne Westwood, through the creation of his design in her London-based studio.

The gown that Badger created was made from a certified organic silk crepe de chine. It was embroided with vintage glass beads from the 1920's to the 1960's as well as, wait for it, chocolate candy wrappers! Talk about re-using ;) The zippers that were used, were standard reclaimed zippers. "The dying process employed golden rod and a renewable biodegradable natural plant source, a humble camomile, which is also used medicinally and for camomile tea. Since there were no water pollutants or chemicals used, any waste produced was transferred to a compost heap." - source

Badger, "drew inspiration from one of nature’s most powerful forces, a volcano. By focusing on the appearance of lava as it flows, Badger’s design celebrates our world’s natural splendor and serves to remind each of us of our role as its caretaker" - source


Tommy Crawford, Creative Director for Greenpeace International’s Global Detox Campaign said that “The gown created for this year’s Red Carpet Green Dress contest proves that even the most intricate design, subject to the highest levels of scrutiny, can be as sustainable as it is beautiful”.

A close up of the bodice, as tweeted by @SamataAngel

For more information on Michael Badger, Naomie Harris' dress and Red Carpet Green Dress - check out their website here

What are your thoughts on the dress? I love it! I think part of the reason I love it so much is because I know it is eco-friendly  - very Glam and Green ;) 
  

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Tips for a Glam and Green Summer

How to be Glam and Green this Summer

 

 

 

Can you believe it is already the last month of 2012? Where has this year gone?

Last month I posted about how I love November - one of the reasons I love it, is because it rolls onto December, a magical time of the year ©

 

 

Its my 100th post so why not write about something I love, summer! I've been excited to write this post for a while now, always thinking of new tips to add, so I really hope it inspires you and helps you out!

 

Tips for a Glam and Green Summer:

 

© Wear your sunscreen!!! It is SO important to protect your skin while outdoors - why not try a natural sunscreen

 

 

© Now that the weather is warmer, its easier to eat all your fruits and veggies instead of reaching for the warm comfort food

 

 

Why not even make yummy fruit smoothies for breakfast or as a snack?

 

 

© Don't spend your weekends indoors, go out and enjoy nature, chill at the beach; go for a hike; have a picnic in the garden

 

 

© swap your morning cup of coffee for a cup of anti-oxidant rich green tea

 

 

© Take some time out for yourself - December is usually a busy month for everyone, relax and unwind from end of year stress

 

 

© Make sure to drink your 2 litres of water everyday - add some lemon and mint, so refreshing!

 

 

© Having a party at your house? Have seperate bins for glass, plastic and cans for people to throw their rubbish in - helps when cleaning up and sorting out the recycling

 

 

© Off to the coast or attending lots of pool parties? Look stylish while protecting your skin from the sun by wearing a large sun hat

 

 

© Wondering what to buy family and friends for Christmas? Why not something thats eco-friendly or organic? ps: look out for a gift guide soon

 

© switch one of your beauty products to an organic brand

 

© Already starting to wrap all your Christmas gifts? Do it the Glam and Green way

 

 

 

© Re-use glass jars as glasses for your party drinks

 

 

© Want more easy ways to be Glam and Green? Click on this link for a few simple tips

 

 

I hope all of these tips let you have a Glam and Green Summer xXx

 

 

Enjoy my Glam and Green darlings

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



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Kriki for Shore

A Cool Concept: Kriki For Shore

 

 

So here's three things to know about me:

1) I love the ocean - I think I mention my love for the sea in every post related to the ocean, yes I am a mermaid

2) I love recycling and reusing - the name The Glam Green Girl should give that one away ;)

3) I love cricket - something that my girlfriends just dont understand about me!

 

So imagine when I saw that 'Kriki For Shore' was following me on twitter and I saw what they were all about! A company that re-uses waste material including plastic and bottle-tops collected from South African beaches to create beach cricket sets!

 

 

Here's a bit more information about Kriki For Shore:

 

" There are two different types of Kriki sets: 100% hand-made sets that focus on a message of “reusing” waste (each bat is made entirely from waste material collected in coastal communities); and moulded plastic sets made from 60% recycled plastic that aim to educate on how useful waste plastic can be. Each set includes a bat and a ball and wickets."

 

 

 

At R185 per set you are helping to clean up the environment; creating jobs; teaching kids to be active and to participate in sport; educating kids how important it is to recycle and re-use as well as not too litter! Plus you have something for the kids to play with during December holidays!

 

Pretty awesome hey!

 

 

 

For more information visit Kriki For Shore on Facebook or follow them on Twitter @kriki4shore. To order sets email producer1@mbongiworks.co.za

 

 

 

"I dont like cricket.. no no.. I LOVE it" - oh and another thing about me, I love to sing haha ;)

 

 

 

 

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Better Life and Harmless House product launch

The Launch for Harmless House and Better Life Products

 

 

Last week I was invited to attend the Harmless House Media Event at the lovely Aroma Cafe in Fourways. Kate Townsend and Tracey Pictor from Harmless House introduced us to two new ranges (available on the Harmless House online store and in some selected stores) , the Better Life range and a range from Harmless House.

 

Both these ranges are about making your home greener

 

Better Life

 

Better Life was started in 2008 by two fathers who were concerned about their children's safety with the chemicals that are used in house hold products. The Better Life range is cruelty free, vegan and free from sulphates;ethoxylates; fragrances; SLS phosphates; ammonia; bleach; dyes and Volatile Organic Compounds such as alcohol. Although they are free from all of this, they still clean just as effectively as normal household cleaning products.

 

The Better Life range includes the following:

 

What- EVER: all purpose cleaner

Simply Floored: floor cleaner

Take it for Granite: High end stone surface cleaner

I can see clearly, WOW: window/glass cleaner

Einshine: Stainless Steel cleaner

Oak-Y-Dokey: wood polish

Even The Kitchen Sink: deep cleaning scrubber for all surfaces

Dish It Out: Dish washing liquid

Automatic Magic: automatic dishwasher liquid

Liquid Soaps

Hand Lotions

 

I'll be posting a review soon on the Oak-Y-Dokey cleaner

 

Don't you just love the names of the products?

 

At the event there were flowers on the tables in what seemed to be water, but in actual fact  they were in the Better Life cleaning solutions! Amazing right? Its all natural so why not?

 

 

 

Harmless House

 

Harmless House also launched their own range of house hold cleaners that leaves things spick and span but don't harm the environment as they are washed down the drain.

 

These products are free from sulphates; phosphates and harmful chemicals. They are water course and septic tank friendly; certified cruelty free; 100%biodegradable and gentle on your skin.

 

The Harmless House range includes the following products:

Laundry Gel

Surface Cleaner

Toilet Cleaner

Dishwashing Liquid

Dog Shampoo

 

Along with my Better Life Oak-Y-Dokey review, I will also be posting a review on the Harmless House Laundry Gel

 

All these products are available online at The Harmless House website , while browsing you might find some great body products as well ;) Here's the link to one of my favourite products from Harmless House which I use weekly.

 

Look out for those reviews which will be posted soon

 

Do you use any of these products?

 

xXx

The Glam Green Girl

 

Ps: Thank you to Harmless House and Tynago Communications for a wonderful event xXx

 

 

 

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Tips for a Glam and Green Salon

Eco-Tips for a Salon

Here are a few tips on how to turn your hair salon into a Glam and Green salon:

1) Produce oxygen - feature some pot plants around the salon, make it greener by using old containers or tins as the pots. Its attractive and balances out the carbon dioxide emissions

2) Use low energy lighting - low energy light bulbs last a lot longer and use up to 60% less energy

3) Recycle - place recycling bins in your salon for staff as well as customers to use

4) switch off bluetooth and wifi - when not in use, switch off the bluetooth and wifi feature on your phones and personal computers as its boosts your battery life, saving you having to charge your phone constantly which uses a lot of electricity

5) Save water - turn off the tap while massaging in your clients hair products, example treatments or whilst giving them a head massage

6) Use green cleaning products - switch to green cleaning products in the salon, better for you and your clients, better for the environment

7) Only use the washing machine when full - Only once the washing machine if full with the salons towels etc, let it run. Also try and run it as a cold wash, it saves electricity and is just as efficient.

8) Embrace the natural light - make sure your windows are always sparkly clean so you can embrace the natural light from the sun, this gives the salon a warmer feel, uses less electricity and allows you to accurately read your clients hair colour

9) Switch off unnecassary lights - switch off unnecessary lights in the salon, especially at night when there is no need for them to be on

10) Inspire your clients - share tips with your clients on how they can become greener at home and what you've done to be more eco friendly at the salon

all images: Pintrest

A lot of these tips can also be incorporated in your home - simple Glam and Green changes that can make a difference

xXx

The Glam Green Girl



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