Specially For You

We, as consumers, have great power. Our purchases send a clear message to manufacturers about what we want ... and they, wishing to prosper, provide the products which we are willing to spend money on.

So if we support Eco-friendly products and companies, we encourage the market to provide more of the same ... and that's good for us and the earth!

Today I'd like to introduce you to the companies currently listed on our Special Offers Page. I don't receive any compensation for their listing, or this post ... I simply feel that it's important to support companies who are doing their best to protect the environment.

Of course, the most green option is not to buy. But when we need something, it's important to choose earth friendly items.

Even if you're not in the market for something new right now, I encourage you to visit these vendors and let them know that we appreciate their efforts.

ecolissa

La Francesca

Gina Jordan

ecolissa

Specializing in eco friendly and vegan woman’s clothing and accessories. Until December 31, 2015, you can get 20% off any purchase. Use code rf20 at checkout.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

La Francesca Eco-Resort

Specializing in Eco-friendly vacations in Italy. Get a 5-15% discount until December 31, 2015, with discount code FOOTPRINTS.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Gina Jordan's Soft Cloth Shop

Specializing in reusable paperless towels, baby wipes, and cloth napkins. Use code ReduceFootprints until December 31, 2015, to get 10% off any purchase.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

LustOrganic

Sow True Seed

Funnest

LustOrganic

Specializing in organic, natural bath and body products. Until January 1, 2015, use code ReduceFootPrints to enjoy 20% off any purchase.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Sow True Seed

Specializing in open-pollinated seeds. Use code REDUCE10, until December 31, 2015, to get 10% off all seed packets.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Funnest

Specializing in Eco-friendly wall decor. Until September 1, 2015, you can get an additional 20% off any order (can be combined with other sales to get a maximum of 40% off), and free shipping on orders over $35, by using code footprints20.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Violet's Buds

Nubila Services

Celadon Road

Violet's Buds

Specializing in handmade accessories for you and your little flower. Save 20% on any purchase in the shop by using code ECO20. This offer expires on June 20, 2015.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Nubila Services

Specializing in elegant, unique solutions for a mindful community - compostable dinnerware. Enjoy a storewide 10% discount until May 31, 2015, using code SAVE10%.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

Celadon Road by Amanda Arkans

Specializing in Eco-friendly body care and home products. Mention Small Footprints when enrolling in Amanda Arkans' team and get a personalized party-pack worth over $50. This business opportunity ends on June 30, 2015.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

StopLittering.com

EartH2O

StopLittering.com

Specializing in a litter-free society. Between now and August 31, 2015, use code KAB to get $5 off any T-shirt in the shop.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

EartH2O

Specializing in sustainability studies in Costa Rica. Save $100 off the program fee by using code REDUCE2015 through April, 2016.

Visit the Special Offers Page for more details.

I'd like to thank all of these vendors for their generosity and for their efforts to operate in an earth-friendly manner. We need more companies like them!

Think green products are too expensive?

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I received no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

We've talked about the power of our purchases and how supporting green companies and products is one of the best ways to tell manufacturers that we want products and services which are kind to the earth.

Unfortunately, earth-friendly products aren't always affordable. So I've contacted some great folks and asked them to give you a deal ... and they have generously agreed! If you'd like to take advantage of any offer, click HERE for the details.

Let's meet them (listed in reverse alphabetical order) ...

Violet's Buds creates beautiful items from recycled and upcycled materials. They also strive to make the most of the materials they use, thereby reducing waste. This shop carries lovely hair clips, headbands, pigtail sets, and even hoop art. You'll find items appropriate for little girls and for moms. Right now you can save 20% on any purchase in the shop.

LustOrganic produces rich body care products that focus on the health of both users and the planet. Luxurious soaps, body whips, and foot soaks are just a few of the wonderful products you'll find in this shop. It'll be easy to pamper yourself with a 20% discount.

Looking for a truly unique gift or accessory for your home? Liquidcardboard produces artisanal, functional, and innovative products which are made from recycled cardboard. One will find message boards, hats, vases, and more in this creative shop. And by the way, each product can be recycled when it's lived it's life. Get a 15% discount on online purchases until April 1st.

Our next vendor, La Francesca Eco-Resort, wants you to take a vacation in Italy. Located along the Ligurian Eastern Riviera, in a 15 hectares' protected area facing the sea of Cinque Terre, visitors are treated to moderate temperatures, a self-sufficient settlement, and the opportunity to leisurely discover a unique landscape. Depending on your preferred vacation dates, they offer you anywhere from a 5 to 15% discount.

Are you trying to get away from disposable items? Gina Jordan's Shop is the place for you. Shoppers will find products like organic paperless towels, baby wipes, and wet bags. Ditch the disposables and save 10% off any purchase from Gina.

Finding earth-friendly clothing isn't easy! Ecolissa is an online store which carries clothing and accessories made from hemp, bamboo, organic cotton, and even reclaimed materials. If you're thinking that you'll find plain, "sackcloth" type clothing, think again ... this shop carries fashionable clothes. See for yourself and claim a 20% discount off any purchase.

Did you know that essential oils can be used to help achieve overall wellness? They can calm us down, supplement our diets, and serve as a natural disinfectant. Not all oils are equal, however, and some can actually cause harm. doTERRA offers only Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade® essential oils. Their site includes single oils, oil blends, and a ton of information on how to use their products. Buy from this shop and receive a free sample of peppermint, slim and sassy or on guard.

Celadon Road by, Amanda Arkans is an amazing shop! They carry a bit of everything from personal care products to earth-friendly bracelets to cleaning & laundry products ... and more. I can tell you, from personal experience, that the products are high quality! Not only does Amanda offer Eco-friendly products, she offers business opportunities. Join her team and get a party pack worth at least $50. There's also a possibility of $100 in commissions and a $20 "thank you" gift within the first 30 days (click over to the special offers page for the details).


Thanks to all the above vendors for giving us an economical way to experience Eco-friendly products. They make it possible to truly put our money where our hearts are and protect the earth.


If you have an Eco-friendly product which you'd like to have featured on our special offers page, send an email to us at reducefootprints@gmail.com with "special offer" in the subject line.

Skip Black Friday and go Eco-Friendly Instead

This post introduces the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I received no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

Every year, I hear about "Black Friday". Not about great bargains or companies offering folks a helping hand, but rather about customers physically fighting over a limited quantity of this year's "hyped" toy or people battling for position in lines, waiting for stores to open. Stories tell of greed and selfishness ... all for the sake of "stuff".

Ironically, this happens right after Thanksgiving, a day for family and gratitude.

I propose that we take a new approach and think outside of the box.

Gifts aren't always necessary

• Give the gift of time. Arrange a visit with your loved ones or spend an afternoon with nursing home residents who may not have family. Listen to an elderly person's stories of the past or take a walk with someone who doesn't get out much. Time is so much more precious than stuff.
• Invite your friends and family over for meal ... or prepare a meal for a person or family in need.
• Give a service. Offer to clean house, wash a car, or do the laundry for a loved one.

Create gifts with recycled materials

• Fill your mason jars with ingredients for a delicious soup, stew, chilli, etc. Don't forget to include cooking instructions.
• Use old jewelry to create unique Christmas tree ornaments or beautiful memento boxes.
• Turn scrap material into a lovely quilt.

Buy Eco-friendly gifts

• Look for items made with earth-friendly materials and minimal packaging.
• Shop locally.
• Buy quality items which will last.

Support Eco-friendly vendors

Click on image for exclusive offers
and discounts on Eco-friendly products.

By supporting companies who are trying to operate in an Eco-friendly way, we encourage all entrepaneurs to adopt "green" standards. To make that a bit easier, the following companies are offering Reduce Footprints' readers special deals on their products and services:

• Arcadia Power is offering a free month of clean energy.
• doTERRA wants to give you a free sample of Peppermint, slim and sassy or on guard.
• Ecoenstyle is offering 25% off orders over $75 and free shipping on orders over $50.
• ecolissa has a 20% off discount code for you.
• Gina Jordan's Soft Cloth Shop wants to give you 10% off any purchase.
• La Alicia is offering a discount code worth 15% off your order.
• La Francesca's wants you to enjoy a discounted Italian vacation.
• OneDayOneImage Photography has a 25% discount code for you.
• Oz Fair Trade is offering a discount code worth 15%.
• SolarProducts.ME wants to give you 10% off your next order.
• Tasha Hussey Body is offering a 20% discount on your order.
• Get 15% off The Ultimate Do-It-Yourself eBike Guide.
• Violet's Buds has a 20% discount code for you.

For details and discount codes, please visit the SPECIAL OFFERS page.

This holiday season, let's say no to Black Friday and make our gift giving truly thoughtful ... to those we love and to the planet.

Vendors who care about the earth

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I am receiving no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

Every few months, I like to take the opportunity to feature vendors who are making a difference in our world. They embrace environmental sustainability and make protecting the earth the main focus of their business model.

Let's meet them:

Micah Toll takes green transportation seriously. He discovered just how easy, and inexpensive, it is to build an ebike. Ebikes are perfect for those times when pedalling isn't enough power and a car is too much. "The Ultimate DIY Ebike Guide (an ebook)" offers readers everything they need to know to turn their bicycle into an efficient, Eco-friendly mode of transportation. Reduce Footprints readers can pick up their copy at a discount of 15% off the list price.

Essential oils are ... well ... essential in a "green" home. Some oils act as a natural disinfectant, perfect for removing mold and mildew. Others can be used in place of commercial air fresheners. They can enhance our moods and even repel bugs. doTERRA is giving readers a free sample.



Sometimes we may not "need" an item but it serves to make us happy.

And happiness is important! Eco-friendly accessories for a little girl's hair can bring a smile to her face. Pretty "green" items for a home can help us feel content. And what woman doesn't feel a bit special when wearing a beautiful headband. The folks at Violet's Buds are offering us 20% off any purchase from their shop.

Environmentally sound products can be both beautiful and functional. Paloma Pottery uses recycled glass to create items such as goblets, bowls, home furnishings, jewelry, and more. For a limited time, you can get 15% off your entire order.




Vacations add vitality to our lives. More and more vacation spots are going "green". La Francesca resort is one such spot. Located along Ligurian Eastern Riviera, in a 15 hectares' protected area, La Francesca is a self-sufficient settlement. Eco-friendly accommodations offer visitors a chance to discover landscapes, scents and natural flavors. Reduce Footprints readers can get a discount of 5% to 15% off their stay in this unique resort.

Using recycled products, natural dyes, and earth-safe materials is important. What if your purchase could not only protect the earth but protect the people who create the products as well? Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd has a simple goal: to help artisans, living in extreme poverty, by providing a platform for their beautiful products. Get 15% off their Eco-Friendly product range.


The most Eco-friendly purchase is, of course, no purchase. But when we do buy a product, we have a great opportunity to support "green". There is power in our purchases.

When you choose to buy, I encourage you to support vendors who care about the earth. And, of course, check out our Special Offers Page for exclusive deals.



If you have an Eco-friendly product and would like a free listing on our Special Offers Page, please contact us at reducefootprints at gmail dot com.

Do you support Eco-friendly products?

Our purchases send a message

This post will introduce you to the companies listed on our Special Offers Page. I received no compensation for this post ... I simply want to introduce you to companies doing their best to operate in an earth-friendly manner.

We all know the rules of Eco-friendly buying. No purchase is better than a purchase. Buying used is better than buying new. And we try to differentiate between needs and wants.

When we've decided to make a purchase, there's another aspect to consider. Our purchases tell manufacturers what we want. They respond by filling the shelves with those items. We have the power to determine both the kinds of products which are manufactured and the types of companies manufacturing them.

So ask yourself ... do you want Eco-friendly products manufactured by companies doing their best to tread lightly on the earth and treat employees fairly, or will you settle for mass-produced items manufactured by companies who care more about their "bottom line" than the earth?

The choice is ours.

I believe strongly in supporting "green" purchases. To that end, I've been inviting Eco-friendly companies to offer you a discount on their products and services. These are people who are trying to make a living in a way which will not hurt the earth.

I'd like to introduce them to you. Even if you don't make the decision to purchase, I hope you'll visit their sites and support their efforts. If you do wish to patronize them, please click over to the Special Offers Page to take advantage of their generous discounts.

Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd

Oz Fair Trade Pty Ltd

All Eco-friendly products in this shop are also fair trade. In addition, all profits support artisans. You'll find bottle openers, spoons, greeting cards, scarves, satchels, and so much more. They are offering you 15% off anything in their Eco-friendly product range. Offer expires on April 30, 2014.

Ecoenstyle

Ecoenstyle

Whether you're looking for an elegant dress, a "hoodie", or shoes, you'll find beautiful items in this store. Everything is earth-friendly and made from materials such as bamboo, organic cotton, and vegan "leather". Get a 15% discount on anything in their shop until April 30, 2014.

La Alicia

La Alicia

Imagine scrap paper being turned into beautiful accessories. Browse this shop for earrings, purses, garlands, bookmarks, and more. Until April 22, 2014, you'll get a free Eco Chic Mystery Goodie Grab Bag (a minimum value of $20) with every purchase of $50 or more.

Eco Natural Soap

Eco Natural Soap

I love this shop and have been using their products for awhile. You'll find body care products including soap, shampoo, skin moisturizers, lip balms and even products designed to relieve arthritis joint pain. From now until April 11, 2014, take advantage of 15% off any order of $10 or more.

Violet's Buds

Violet's Buds

Have a wedding coming up and need something for the bride's hair? How about a headband to keep your hair in place. Maybe your interested in hoop art or Kanzashi Flowers. This shop has amazing accessories. Get a 20% discount on any purchase in the shop until May 30, 2014.

PERI pure eco rag industry

PERI

Finding Eco-friendly clothing, made from fabrics which are organic, biodegradable and recyclable, is tough. This shop makes your search easier. You'll find beautiful tops, dresses, men's clothing, and accessories. Get 40% off any purchase until April 15, 2014.

doTERRA

doTERRA

Essential oils have so many applications in a "green" home. Some have antibacterial properties making them great for cleaning. Others can help keep us healthy by boosting our immune systems. Find quality products in this shop and get a free sample when you join the team.

Paloma Pottery

Paloma Pottery

Dinnerware, stepping stones, coasters, and soap dishes. Those are just a few of the earth-friendly products you'll find in this shop. Each beautiful piece is made from recycled glass. They are offering you 15% off your entire order until May 30, 2014.

La Francesca Eco-Resort

La Francesca Eco-Resort

Imagine a vacation, in a beautiful area, which doesn't hurt the earth. This Italian resort, located on the Cinque Terre Sea, might be the perfect destination for your next getaway. Get a 5-15% discount (based on the time of year) until December 31, 2014.



I hope that you enjoyed meeting these companies. Click over to their sites and let them know that you appreciate their efforts. And then, when you're ready to make a purchase, visit the Special Offers Page for information on how to get your discount.

Our purchases have power! Support the earth with your dollar!


Sneak Peek: Join us on Monday when we'll be talking about Vegan nutrition.

Supporting "Green" Through Our Purchases

The most Eco-friendly purchase is, of course, no purchase at all.

But sometimes we need stuff and when we do, it's important to research products and buy from companies who make an effort to minimize their impact on the environment. Supporting such companies sends a clear message that we insist on products which don't harm the earth through their manufacture, use, or disposal.

Sounds easy enough, right? Unfortunately, it's not.

Living green has become a trend; consequently, advertisers want to capitalize on our desire to live a more Eco-friendly life. They use words like "natural" to convince us that their product just sprouted from the earth. Unfortunately, the word is unregulated and can mean just about anything.

Another "trick", which I've seen, is the use of the word "green", typically on a package which includes the color green to reinforce their message. If you look a bit closer on the label, you won't find actual certifications from organizations like Green Seal, Rainforest Alliance, or Forest Stewardship Council. You also won't find information on why their product is safe for the environment.

Here are a few tips to ensure that we're buying earth-friendly products:

Packaging

Look at the packaging of the product. It should have minimal, or no, packaging and what there is should be recyclable (make a point to find out what can be recycled in your area). Bulk products, free of any packaging, are usually good bets.

Labeling

Read the label.

• Avoid words like "all natural", "nontoxic", and "carbon neutral" which are non-regulated words and can mean anything.
• The list of ingredients should be recognizable and safe. For example, in cleaning solutions chlorine and ammonia are not safe, baking soda and vinegar won't hurt you or the planet.
• Are there hazardous use warnings? Typically a "green" product won't come with a lot of warnings and probably won't suggest that you call poison control if the product is ingested.
• The label should backup the manufacturer's claims. Look for an explanation of why the product is green and any green certifications.
• Watch out for big claims. If they sound too good to be true, they probably are.

Color

Look at the item ... is it unusually white (bleached) or have a very bright color (dyed)? That might be a clue that it's not "green".

Smell

Is there a strong fragrance to the item? If a product comes heavily scented, it probably isn't Eco-friendly.

Research the company

Reputable companies typically want you to know what they are doing. Visit websites and look for sustainability policies. Here's one of my personal concerns: companies who mainly sell non-green items but, to accommodate the growing trend, have added a line of Eco-friendly products. In my opinion, they lack commitment and I find all of their products suspect.

These are just a few of the ways that can help us determine the "greeness" of a product and company. Unfortunately, they aren't "fool proof", but they do help us narrow down the choices.

Our purchases cast a vote for the earth. They also send a clear message to manufacturers who are driven by their financial bottom line. If we refuse to support them, they will either make a change in favor of the environment ... or watch their business die.

I'd like to invite you to check out our Special Offers Page. The vendors are trying their best to create products which are kind to the environment. And, they are graciously offering special deals to introduce their products to you. Check them out and let them know that we appreciate their efforts. Here are some of the great items you'll find:



What is your strategy to ensure that you are supporting "green" through your purchases?


Sneak Peek: Winter is the best time to do a home energy inspection. Our next post offers some inexpensive ways to get it done.

Images courtesy of Grant Cochrane, FreeDigitalPhotos.net, & vendors featured on the Specials Offers Page

Posted at Small Footprint Fridays

Eco-Friendly Shopping

Holiday shopping is a lot of work, especially when we focus on Eco-friendly gifts. We have to research companies to make sure that their products are actually "green", browse their sites & catalogs for items which will please the receiver, and then be willing to pay a bit more because high-quality, environmentally-safe products typically cost more.

Let me make it a bit easier for you!

The newly redesigned Reduce Footprints' Special Offers page, which has been relocated from Facebook to this blog, has some great gift ideas. Each one is earth-friendly and (the best part) each one includes a discount just for you.

How about baby clothing, soap & hair accessories, or a solar water kettle:


Maybe someone on your list prefers essential oils, wooden teething toys, or containers for do-it-yourself cleansers:


Perhaps you'd like a wreath, a pretty "Poinsettia" for your hair, or an organic T-shirt:


What about some lip balm for stuffing stockings, totes instead of wrapping paper, and cards to share your holiday messages:


Discounts on all of these items, and more, are available by clicking the Special Offers tab at the top of this blog or by clicking HERE.

Be sure to bookmark the page and visit often ... we'll be adding new items regularly.

Happy Stress-Free Shopping, Everyone!


I received no compensation for this post ... I simply wanted to introduce you to companies doing their best to offer Eco-friendly products.