1. Make smarter, more sustainable seafood choices - Xmas/Summer is our largest period of consumption of Seafood. Instead of Atlantic Salmon, Orange Roughy, Rainbow Trout, Swordfish, Baby Octopus and Scallops - go instead for Ling, Bream, Flathead, Hoki, Mullet, Whiting, Calamari and Bugs. These more ocean-friendly alternatives are extremely versatile and can be used grilled, baked, poached, in curries, on the BBQ stuffed whole - the list is endless!!
2. Recycle Paper Waste - If your Xmas paper can't be salvedged to be re-used, then direct it to the recycle bin! Any Xmas cards (or other cards for that matter) can be recycled by collecting a Planet Ark card recycling envelope from any Australia Post Shop and filling it up! New paper products are made using this waste, and with Australians posting around 100 million cards each year, why not do something useful with them?
3. Revisit Your Recipes - don't be stuck eating the same repetitive Xmas dinner for days on end. Most leftovers can be made into wonderful new meals with minimal effort. Think soups, pies, curries, frittatas and pasties. Or go old school and make Bubble & Squeak!!
4. Be Water Smart - Invest in your own stainless steel or glass water bottle and fill 'er up! Cut plastic bottles out altogether and the harmful chemicals they exude as they break down. Our bodies lose the equivalent of up to 8 glasses of water per day so try and aim to drink at least 2L. On the flip side, turn the tap off as you brush your teeth. Race the egg timer in the shower and bath with the one you love rather than by yourself.
5. Head to the Post-Xmas sales - at your nearest garden centre. There can be great reductions after summer on vegie seedlings, herbs and native trees. Lilly Pillies, Casuarinas and Native Pine Trees (Hoops, Bunyas and Norfolks) will make for a wonderful Xmas tree next year!
Monday, December 20, 2010
Monday, December 13, 2010
Are Your Knickers This Twisted??
There are kinder, greener (yet still sexy) alternatives so that we never have to put these toxic togs near our tushes again!! Check out these links for some reASSuring retail therapy...
A great range of everyday knickers, singlets, tights etc for the whole family go to zodee.com.au
For something a little more luxurious and feminine check out www.madonnabain.com.au
For our little cherubs THE Cutest little miss, and little mister singlets and boylegs find the essence of childhood innocence at www.bluebelle.com.au
And to get your whole family involved on Pants to Poverty Stock up on mens, womens and childrens briefs at The New Internationalist Shop
GC xo
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Green Caravan is Now Completely Naked!!
It has been a hectic week at GC HQ and by the end of it we have ended up completely nudie - That's right - nudie!
You see, when Green Caravan was first establised, our dream was to create a green buying group that could access eco products at wholesale prices. At first we were missing a few key elements to make this possible, but thanks to the support and involvement of our beautiful customers, we have finally reached our goal.
Green Caravan has re-structured for the new year and with that comes peeling off the layers we no longer require. Green Caravan will still operate on a volunteer basis, but you'll find our membership fee very wallet-friendly with a Casual ($5) or Annual ($79) Membership option.
Our new structure entitles members to purchase eco products direct from our suppliers on a fortnightly buying cycle... This means savings of up to 50% or even more.Find new info on our website (see How It Works) and our new products & prices will be released in early January 2011.
More details to come!!
GC x
You see, when Green Caravan was first establised, our dream was to create a green buying group that could access eco products at wholesale prices. At first we were missing a few key elements to make this possible, but thanks to the support and involvement of our beautiful customers, we have finally reached our goal.
Green Caravan has re-structured for the new year and with that comes peeling off the layers we no longer require. Green Caravan will still operate on a volunteer basis, but you'll find our membership fee very wallet-friendly with a Casual ($5) or Annual ($79) Membership option.
Our new structure entitles members to purchase eco products direct from our suppliers on a fortnightly buying cycle... This means savings of up to 50% or even more.Find new info on our website (see How It Works) and our new products & prices will be released in early January 2011.
More details to come!!
GC x
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Xmas is almost here!
Boutique Eco-Stationers, Blueberry Paper have released their colourful & whimsical christmas card packs for 2010. Each pack contains 2 x of 5 beautiful designs, and also include 100% recycled paper envelopes. Blueberry Paper also has a range of wrapping paper, gift tags and canvas prints. Check out their website for more details!
RRP $19.95 Member Price $10
What would Xmas be without summer sun and buzzing insects. Protect you and your family's skin safely with products that are australian made & safe for bubbas...
 | ||
Zinc Oxide based, no Nanoparticles or chemical absorbersWotnot Sunscreen SPF30+ 135g RRP$25.95 ➝ Member Price $17.95 |
Cherub Rubs Skin Guard 100ml RRP$16.95 ➝ Member Price $10.95
A safe and effective aloe vera base containing lemon eucalyptus oil, perfect for the outdoors
Green Your Laundry!
The chemicals used in everyday laundry powders, soakers and softeners these days have been scientifically recognised to cause serious toxic harm to our bodies, as well as be major pollutants to our environment! Certain hazardous ingredients used can cause acute allergies and increased sensitivity over time, as well as many other side effects (too many to list!)
You can now replace these harmful offenders with safer alternatives, without sacrificing quality or results. Check out our favourite tried and tested Australian-owned products for this week. Safe for all family members!
Alpha Plus Pre-Wash Soaker
A naturally based pre-wash laundry soak, designed to remove the most difficult stains and contaminations prior to laundry wash. A non-chlorinated, phosphate & nutrient-free destainer idea for hot or cold washing. Unlike ordinary pre-wash soakers, Alpha Plus contains no fillers or extenders, providing you with exceptional performance and value for money.
A safer substitute for chlorine and bleach based products, excellent for baby items. The gentle formula of Alpha Plus Pre-Wash Soaker makes it an ideal choice for all colours and fabrics.
Uses
Ideal for soaking and sanitising stained laundry items such as clothing, towels, and nappies.
Health & Environmental Considerations
Suitable for use in grey water and septic systems
Made from 100% plant based materials
Packaged in recyclable plastic
Contains NO caustic alkalis, petroleum by-products, SLS, artificial colours & fragrances, EDTA, parabens or formaldehyde
**tested by GC - soaking daily a 2kg bucket lasts up to 6 months and only 37cents per wash**
Alpha Plus Laundry Powder
A 100% active herbal laundry powder that has created new dimensions in quality and performance. A concentrated phosphate-free formula provides you with exceptional performance and value for money.
Contains no fillers or extenders commonly used in ordinary laundry powders. A light natural fragrance of herbal extracts leaves your laundry clean and fresh whilst being gentle on delicate skins and noses.
Uses
Ideal for washing laundry items such as clothing, towels, and nappies
Suitable for use in Front & Top loading machines
Health & Environmental Considerations
Suitable for use in grey water and septic systems
Made from 100% plant based materials
Packaged in recyclable plastic
Contains NO caustic alkalis, petroleum by-products, SLS, artificial colours & fragrances, EDTA, parabens or formaldehyde
**tested by GC - 2kg bucket lasts family of 4 up to 6 months and only 24cents per wash!!**
Buy the 2kg bucket Alpha Pus Pre-wash soaker and 2kg bucket Alpha Plus Laundry Powder
as a duo this week
RRP$78 Member Price $62
Ecologic Lavender Fabric Softener 1L
A botanical blend of organic herbs, plant extracts and essential oils. A natural softener to gently clean and soften delicates. A mild formula that can be used for hand washing and designed for sensitive skin.
Ammonia free and biodegradable. Safe for front and top loading machines.
We love this!!!
RRP$9.95 Member Price $6.50
To order contact us via our Contact Page or email orders@greencaravan.com.au
If you aren't already a member - JOIN NOW
Happy laundering!!
GC x
You can now replace these harmful offenders with safer alternatives, without sacrificing quality or results. Check out our favourite tried and tested Australian-owned products for this week. Safe for all family members!
Alpha Plus Pre-Wash Soaker
A naturally based pre-wash laundry soak, designed to remove the most difficult stains and contaminations prior to laundry wash. A non-chlorinated, phosphate & nutrient-free destainer idea for hot or cold washing. Unlike ordinary pre-wash soakers, Alpha Plus contains no fillers or extenders, providing you with exceptional performance and value for money.
A safer substitute for chlorine and bleach based products, excellent for baby items. The gentle formula of Alpha Plus Pre-Wash Soaker makes it an ideal choice for all colours and fabrics.
Uses
Ideal for soaking and sanitising stained laundry items such as clothing, towels, and nappies.
Health & Environmental Considerations
Suitable for use in grey water and septic systems
Made from 100% plant based materials
Packaged in recyclable plastic
Contains NO caustic alkalis, petroleum by-products, SLS, artificial colours & fragrances, EDTA, parabens or formaldehyde
**tested by GC - soaking daily a 2kg bucket lasts up to 6 months and only 37cents per wash**
Alpha Plus Laundry Powder
A 100% active herbal laundry powder that has created new dimensions in quality and performance. A concentrated phosphate-free formula provides you with exceptional performance and value for money.
Contains no fillers or extenders commonly used in ordinary laundry powders. A light natural fragrance of herbal extracts leaves your laundry clean and fresh whilst being gentle on delicate skins and noses.
Uses
Ideal for washing laundry items such as clothing, towels, and nappies
Suitable for use in Front & Top loading machines
Health & Environmental Considerations
Suitable for use in grey water and septic systems
Made from 100% plant based materials
Packaged in recyclable plastic
Contains NO caustic alkalis, petroleum by-products, SLS, artificial colours & fragrances, EDTA, parabens or formaldehyde
**tested by GC - 2kg bucket lasts family of 4 up to 6 months and only 24cents per wash!!**
Buy the 2kg bucket Alpha Pus Pre-wash soaker and 2kg bucket Alpha Plus Laundry Powder
as a duo this week
RRP$78 Member Price $62
Ecologic Lavender Fabric Softener 1L
A botanical blend of organic herbs, plant extracts and essential oils. A natural softener to gently clean and soften delicates. A mild formula that can be used for hand washing and designed for sensitive skin.
Ammonia free and biodegradable. Safe for front and top loading machines.
We love this!!!
RRP$9.95 Member Price $6.50
To order contact us via our Contact Page or email orders@greencaravan.com.au
If you aren't already a member - JOIN NOW
Happy laundering!!
GC x
ECO BEAUTY BUYS...
Be ready this party season...focus on your natural beauty - celebrate with these green goddess must haves!
Suvana Biogloss™ Lip Gloss -16ml
Australia's first certified organic lip gloss! Divine ingredients including Shea Buttet, Jojoba Oil, Beeswax and Vitamin E. Protects your lips whilst giving you a high-shine gorgeous pout. Contains no lead, parabens,petrochemicals, artificial colourants or fragrances.
RRP$23.95 Member Price $15
8 beautiful shades to choose from (left to right) Moonlight, Blossom, Dusk, Stardust, Autumn, Walnut, Amythest & Cinnamon.
*Suvana Paw Paw & Honey Lip Balm (25g) also available in our Product Catalogue)
Suvana Biolash™ Mascara - 8ml
Biolash thicknes and lengthens, while encouraging the growth of strong an luxurious lashes.
Contains a nourishing and protective blend of organic ingredients designed to care for the entire eye area. Sweet Almond Oil prtects the outside of each lash, and Shea Butter and Beeswax help condition. Vitamin E and Sunflower act as powerrful antioxidants to care for the area around the eye. No petrochemicals, artifical colours or harsh preservatives. Opthamalogically tested. Comes in Cleopatra Black and Tiger's Eye Brown.
RRP $25.95 Member Price $16.50
Simply Gentle Organic Cotton Make-up Pads - 100pk
Made using 100% organic cotton seed, and fair trade monitored to ensure the highest quality cotton pad. No petrochemicals or other nasties. Super soft and absorbent, these little guys also help environmental damage caused by toxic persticides and GMO's.
RRP $6.95 Member Price $4.40
*Simply Gentle Cotton balls (20pk) and Cotton Buds (100pk) also available
Have you become a Member of Green Caravan yet? JOIN NOW to receive our weekly newsletter packed with goodness and the latest specials, products and related info.
GC x
Suvana Biogloss™ Lip Gloss -16ml
Australia's first certified organic lip gloss! Divine ingredients including Shea Buttet, Jojoba Oil, Beeswax and Vitamin E. Protects your lips whilst giving you a high-shine gorgeous pout. Contains no lead, parabens,petrochemicals, artificial colourants or fragrances.
RRP$23.95 Member Price $15
8 beautiful shades to choose from (left to right) Moonlight, Blossom, Dusk, Stardust, Autumn, Walnut, Amythest & Cinnamon.
*Suvana Paw Paw & Honey Lip Balm (25g) also available in our Product Catalogue)
Suvana Biolash™ Mascara - 8ml
Biolash thicknes and lengthens, while encouraging the growth of strong an luxurious lashes.
Contains a nourishing and protective blend of organic ingredients designed to care for the entire eye area. Sweet Almond Oil prtects the outside of each lash, and Shea Butter and Beeswax help condition. Vitamin E and Sunflower act as powerrful antioxidants to care for the area around the eye. No petrochemicals, artifical colours or harsh preservatives. Opthamalogically tested. Comes in Cleopatra Black and Tiger's Eye Brown.
RRP $25.95 Member Price $16.50
Simply Gentle Organic Cotton Make-up Pads - 100pk
Made using 100% organic cotton seed, and fair trade monitored to ensure the highest quality cotton pad. No petrochemicals or other nasties. Super soft and absorbent, these little guys also help environmental damage caused by toxic persticides and GMO's.
RRP $6.95 Member Price $4.40
*Simply Gentle Cotton balls (20pk) and Cotton Buds (100pk) also available
Have you become a Member of Green Caravan yet? JOIN NOW to receive our weekly newsletter packed with goodness and the latest specials, products and related info.
GC x
Ladies Choice...
Many studies undertaken worldwide have found that harmful chemical toxins called dioxins are found in paper and cotton products that have been chemically bleached and chlorinated. Feminine hygiene products are manufactured using such hazardous industrial processes which pollute our environment and our bodies with these contaminants. So by using such products that contain the dioxins, we expose us lady folk to all kinds of dreadful risks and occurances.
Dioxins have been strongly linked to cancers, and have been shown to have some effects on human immune systems as well as unborn children. This week we feature kinder, safer sanitary and mother care choices... when it comes down to it, what price do we put on the health of ourselves, our children and the environment?
Natracare feminine hygiene products were created out of the concern for the damaging effects dioxins have on women's health and the environment. All products use certified organic cotton covers and fillings to provide a quality natural choice. If you currently use other brands Libra, Stayfree, Poise etc you will LOVE Natracare products. Not only are they safer and kinder to our health and the environment, they are comparible on price too!
Natracare Tampons 20pk
Regular RRP $7.95 Member Price $5.50
Super RRP $8.95 Member Price $6
Natracare Natural Pads
Regular with wings 14pk
Super with wings 14pk
Super Plus 12pk
RRP $6.95 Member Price $4.75
Maternity Pads 10pk - RRP $7.95 Member Price $5.50
*Panty Liners and Nursing Pads also available
GC x
Dioxins have been strongly linked to cancers, and have been shown to have some effects on human immune systems as well as unborn children. This week we feature kinder, safer sanitary and mother care choices... when it comes down to it, what price do we put on the health of ourselves, our children and the environment?
Natracare feminine hygiene products were created out of the concern for the damaging effects dioxins have on women's health and the environment. All products use certified organic cotton covers and fillings to provide a quality natural choice. If you currently use other brands Libra, Stayfree, Poise etc you will LOVE Natracare products. Not only are they safer and kinder to our health and the environment, they are comparible on price too!
Natracare Tampons 20pk
Regular RRP $7.95 Member Price $5.50
Super RRP $8.95 Member Price $6
Natracare Natural Pads
Regular with wings 14pk
Super with wings 14pk
Super Plus 12pk
RRP $6.95 Member Price $4.75
Maternity Pads 10pk - RRP $7.95 Member Price $5.50
*Panty Liners and Nursing Pads also available
GC x
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Choose Cleaner Greener Energy
The latest Maplecroft (UK) study last month revealed that Australia is the 2nd highest polluter of CO2 emissions in the world, with United Arab Emirates in first place. Can you believe it! The burning of fossil fuels for our energy consumption is what drags us to the bottom of the 183 countries that were assessed.
Until our government commits to tough new environmental policies soon to be introduced by the UN's Framework Convention for Climate Change, the power is in our hands.
After food production and consumption, the second largest environmental impact comes from our current energy resources. Take a look at your current electricity bill...are you on a green plan? For a few extra cents a week, switching to a cleaner, greener energy can make all the difference - and support research and development into newer, cleaner technologies for the future.
Almost all energy companies offer these alternatives, and we have looked around to see the most effective options available. For further information check out our websites of the week! Even better, if you have access to 1/2 an acre, why not become a Solar Farmer - and be paid for your excess electricity until 2028!!
For cleaner, greener energy choices check out Green Power, Origin Energy and Jack Green Energy
Are you receiving our Weekly E-Zine? Packed with eco tips, competitions and giveaways, new products, clearance sales and yummy recipes what a happy way to start each week! Subscribe here
GC x
Until our government commits to tough new environmental policies soon to be introduced by the UN's Framework Convention for Climate Change, the power is in our hands.
After food production and consumption, the second largest environmental impact comes from our current energy resources. Take a look at your current electricity bill...are you on a green plan? For a few extra cents a week, switching to a cleaner, greener energy can make all the difference - and support research and development into newer, cleaner technologies for the future.
Almost all energy companies offer these alternatives, and we have looked around to see the most effective options available. For further information check out our websites of the week! Even better, if you have access to 1/2 an acre, why not become a Solar Farmer - and be paid for your excess electricity until 2028!!
For cleaner, greener energy choices check out Green Power, Origin Energy and Jack Green Energy
Are you receiving our Weekly E-Zine? Packed with eco tips, competitions and giveaways, new products, clearance sales and yummy recipes what a happy way to start each week! Subscribe here
GC x
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Can Aerosols!!
Each week Green Caravan shares ideas of positive change that can be made in our daily lives that contribute to healthier homes and a happier planet.
This week our attention as grabbed by the good old longstanding Aerosol Cans. There are still so many being manufactured and placed on our shelves, it seems quite crazy in this day and age. Did you know that beauty/health products are the largest aerosol culprits?
To continue our committment to reduce CFC's, excess packaging that cannot be reabsorbed by the earth or be recycled, we'd like to share some greener alternatives with you.
If your bloke is using deodorant sprays such as Lynx, Rexona etc then they will love Sanctum Organic Mens Deodorant. Inspired by the elements of the sea and hinterland of Byron Bay, this heavenly mix contains essential blends of oil and plant extracts such as honeysuckle, oliveleaf, sandalwood and bergamot. RRP $9.95
GC Member Price $6.50
How about shaving creams - those deceptively luxurious foams that oosh from the can and smell like alpine forests? Take a look at the ingredients, let alone the packaging and you'll soon see how 'natural' the product really is. Instead try Sanctum Organic Men's Shave Gel (150ml). Packed with goodies like Cedarwood, Olive Leaf and Jojoba Oil - not only will his skin thank you for it, our environment will be better for it too. It lasts for ages!! RRP $19.95 GC Member Price $13.95
For interests sake, take a look in your bathroom and laundry cupboards, and under your kitchen sink. How many aerosols can you find? For kinder household alternatives such as air freshener, window cleaners, iron aids etc become a Green Caravan Member and start saving!
Keep up to date with our free Weekly E-zine - dispersed each Monday, packed full of eco-tips, hot topics, new products, yummy recipes, competitions and the latest sale info its a happy way to start each week! Subscribe here
We are always happy to hear from you - if you'd like to share money saving eco tips, Meatless Monday! recipes or businesses that deserve our recommendation and attention please contact us here
Until next week,
GC x
This week our attention as grabbed by the good old longstanding Aerosol Cans. There are still so many being manufactured and placed on our shelves, it seems quite crazy in this day and age. Did you know that beauty/health products are the largest aerosol culprits?
To continue our committment to reduce CFC's, excess packaging that cannot be reabsorbed by the earth or be recycled, we'd like to share some greener alternatives with you.
GC Member Price $6.50
How about shaving creams - those deceptively luxurious foams that oosh from the can and smell like alpine forests? Take a look at the ingredients, let alone the packaging and you'll soon see how 'natural' the product really is. Instead try Sanctum Organic Men's Shave Gel (150ml). Packed with goodies like Cedarwood, Olive Leaf and Jojoba Oil - not only will his skin thank you for it, our environment will be better for it too. It lasts for ages!! RRP $19.95 GC Member Price $13.95
For interests sake, take a look in your bathroom and laundry cupboards, and under your kitchen sink. How many aerosols can you find? For kinder household alternatives such as air freshener, window cleaners, iron aids etc become a Green Caravan Member and start saving!
Keep up to date with our free Weekly E-zine - dispersed each Monday, packed full of eco-tips, hot topics, new products, yummy recipes, competitions and the latest sale info its a happy way to start each week! Subscribe here
We are always happy to hear from you - if you'd like to share money saving eco tips, Meatless Monday! recipes or businesses that deserve our recommendation and attention please contact us here
Until next week,
GC x
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