The Poppytalk blog is a visual treat for anyone who appreciates handmade design and crafts, and I've noticed it getting greener and greener lately, what with quirky eco-totes and recycled notepads aplenty.
So it's good to see the blog has now branched out with its own eco themed online craft market, Green Pop, where you'll find the absolute best in vintage, recycled and environmentally aware art, craft and accesories. These include the Ormolo range of recycled paper tags, labels and coasters, which will add a touch of sustainable class to your correspondence and, er, drinking sessions.
Whatever will we do with all those electricity sockets once solar and renewable energy makes them totally redundant? Perhaps not the most pressing concern of the 21st century environmentalist, but one we should indulge, because it's led to some really amusing design ideas...
Scott Amron has created some rather inventive 'socket stuffers' that symbolise our determination not to rely on mains electricity - or something. He calls these 'die electrics'; insulating materials that use power plugs and sockets without the need for electricity. His website showcases these ideas, which include a socket-mounted flower pot, a handy toothbrush holder, and towel hook. In each case, the object is held secure with the attachment of a normal electric plug, but no current is allowed to pass. Neat! [Via Alternative Consumer]
The idea of living 'off-grid' sounds very romantic to many. But what would the reality of living without mains water or electricity actually be like?
This book, by journalist Nick Rosen, gives a glimpse into the world of self-sufficiency that makes fascinating reading, even for those of us who shudder at the thought of not knowing the exact time and location of our next hot shower. From the relative comfort of his own camper van, Rosen's adventure saw him visit some 'real characters' of Britain's off-grid community, from radical hermits and backpackers to right-wing survivalists. With photographs throughout, it's all very interesting stuff, but far from being a mere freak show of oddballs, the book provides lots of useful and practical info on how to disconnect your own life from the mains should you choose to do so. £9.09 at Amazon
C4 continues in its green-themed programming tonight with The Woman Who Stops Traffic; the story of Kris Murrin, who attempts to bring traffic to a halt for one day in three of England's most congested locations.
Kris will certainly have a challenge on her hands, as she goes head-to-head with proud car owners in Marlow, Bucks, where there are more wheels per person than anywhere else in the UK. She'll also be trying her luck in Boston, Lincolnshire and Durham. If you're curious to know where your local area sits on the CO2 emissions stakes, there's an interactive map on the site to accompany the show. The Woman Who Stops Traffic: tonight, channel 4 at 9pm.
Want to care for your body the nautral way? This beautifully presented little book is a bible for anyone who wants to avoid chemical nasties while looking every bit as good as the next botox-injecting, shark-liver coated 'beauty'.
Written by organic beauty expert and founder of natural skincare store Green People, Charlotte Vohtz, the book has up-to-date information on what goes into the potions and lotions we buy at the beauty counter, tips on diet for different skin types and anti-ageing, as well as instructions on home-made skin treats. There are some great tips here, and the book would make a great mother's day gift. On sale at a reduced price of £8.99 at Green People. Visit our sister site Kiss and Makeup for more beauty news!
Why did the chicken cross the road? To hunt Colonel Sanders down and carve him up, actually. In case you were in any doubt as to Moby's vegan credentials - and he's been a bit quiet about all that recently - this video for his stonking new tune "Disco Lies" should put you straight. It's as subtle as a KFC Zinger, but if that bothers you maybe just enjoy the tune. And close your eyes at the end if you don't like the sight of blood... [Via My Chemical Toilet]
Eco friendly fashion is such a big industry these days that it can be hard to keep up with what's new, what's hot and what's actually as green as it claims to be...
Grechen's Closet is a fun site that tracks all the developments in sustainable style for women and gives you all the details you'll need to find bona fide eco chic. Grechen updates the site daily, so you won't miss the latest styles; she presents her findings in the form of a blog with a list of items on sale now and her outfit of the day. There is also a comprehensive list of places to buy sustainable fashion, which is worth adding to your bookmarks. A great, informative site that's worth keeping an eye on.