
With the U.S. economy experiencing its worst downturn since the Great Depression, these will go down as dark days in American history. But, argues Nicholas Kristof in an NYT op-ed this week, there is one thing we can feel good about: nature. Our national parks and forests don't contribute in GDP, but their value is immeasurable. But they need our help, now more than ever.......read more
Environment’s Beam Dining Table exudes a rugged yet sophisticated style that complements any type of space. Made of reclaimed Brazilian Peroba Rosa wood, the rustic table is available of four different sizes to suit living or dining room....read more
This sleekly sustainable, cleverly conceptual accessory from Rogan house comes just in time for summer. Made in NYC from repurposed vintage time pieces, the Timeless Watch is a unique and sharp-looking example of upcycling. More than that, though, it's empty face offers a sly comment on our obsession with keeping time. Available in matte black and gold. ...read more
Advocates of natural gas development like to tout the fuel's environmental benefits. They argue that it burns cleaner than coal, with significantly fewer emissions. Which is true. But according to new research, switching from coal to natural gas won't do much to curb cimate change. Why? Methane leaks. Methane leaks from pipelines and wellheads are a reality of natural gas production.......read more
If you have functioning taste buds, you probably love pie. But baking pie is really an practiced artform, one that takes skill and patience, of which we have little. More often than not, the problem's in the crust. So we were super pleased to see, in this week's NYT Magazine, a Mark Bittman piece dedicated to fruity desserts that aren't pie. Bittman dishes up a bunch of options for crisps,......read more
If you're into products that ride the line between rugged/refined and vintage/modern, then Killspencer is the bag brand for you. The Los Angeles company's Olive Drab Weekender bag, from their 2011 collection, really hits the nail on the head. Constructed from repurposed military truck tarp used in Desert Storm, this piece is ultra durable, super functional, and sustainable to boot. Made in USA....read more
Looking for an easy way to transport fresh snacks and meals? Let Fresh Traveler answer the call. With two separate containers -- one with a double-walled vacuum that keeps food fresh -- you can easily bring milk and cereal for breakfast at work. Or soup and sandwich for lunch. A wonderfully practical product from timeless Dutch kitchenware brand Royal VKB....read more
VersAudio is a perennial SHFT fave. With the new Vers 1.5R, the Massachusetts-based sustainable stereo manufacturer comes correct with another great home audio device. This compact, handcrafted AM/FM soundsystem with iPod dock delivers the full, rich sound we've come to expect from Vers. The handcrafted, versatile 1.5R works perfectly by your bed, in your kitchen, in the den — anywhere you......read more
The most advanced practitioners of frugal living understand that the pursuit requires patience, commitment and, most of all, a willingness to resurrect other people's trash. Jennifer Wurst and partner Michael Fleming, who live in a 200-year old home on 20 remote acres near Phippsburg, Maine, have honed their thrift skills to a finely tuned artform. Their home's rustic decor owes a debt of......read more
Eat Cleaner™ is the only tasteless, odorless, all-natural and lab-tested line of food wash and wipes that is significantly more effective than water in cleaning surface contaminants, pesticide residues, waxes and organic particles from commercially and organically grown produce. Inhibits browning. Helps food last longer. Safe to clean countertops and cutting surfaces, utensils - even your......read more