Green News
Barbie as an eco-warrior raises a few questions, not least how it's possible to take on such a roll when you're entirely made of plastic. But Mattel has announced that it is to launch a range of accessories made from the leftover fabric from making the Barbie toys.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, fashion-conscious Barbie is a woman of many castoffs. These are to be turned into a collection of "cool, patchwork style" tote bags, purses, hats, pillows and other little girl accessories. This is, of course, a good use of fabrics that would otherwise go straight to landfill, but this doesn't change the fact that Mattel basically makes millions flogging plastic, and has now found a fairly obvious money spinner with a supposedly "green" angle.The range isn't out in the shops yet, but is expected to hit Toys R Us soon.
Kids stuff
Organic bedding needn't be plain and saintly white: these brilliant coloured jungle print duvet sets are great fun for cheering up kids' bedrooms but are also organic to the core.
The 'Lions, tigers and kitties, oh my!' set is one of many dazzling designs by Pixel Organics, all of which are printed with non-toxic inks using a 'low impact' process that aims to leave only the tiniest footprints! Unfortunately for us Brits, the products are still mostly limited to the US, but there are dozens of online stores that will deliver. Alternatively, you can get the full 'Lions' bed set for £290 at UK site Twenga.
Fashion & accessories
Bindi Irwin, the nine-year-old daughter of the late crocodile hunter Steve Irwin is an ambitious young lady. Already, her career has already seen her present a TV show, bring out her own fitness DVD and album, and now she's launching a super cute eco-friendly clothing line for kids.
Irwin showcased her collection, Bindi Wear International, with a catwalk show starring herself and a troupe of young models (including a real-life python) in Sydney yesterday. The clothes in the 130-piece collection aim to bring the eco fashion message to kids, and feature recycled materials, lots of fun animal prints and a funky 'Bindi' logo.
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Events and happenings
If you've ever wanted to get friendly with an alpaca, this could be your chance. Toft, makers of super soft, sustainable clothes and accessories from happy, hand-reared alpacas are running a series of 'alpaca fun days' this summer. From £10; details on the site.
It may seem a long way till June, but Toft want to keep groups small so book early to avoid disappointment! Activities will include farm walk and tour amongst the alpacas, herding and feeding, petting and handling, halter training and leading, fleece sorting and includes a picnic amongst the alpacas! Adults and children are both welcome, but must be booked seperately due to difference in price. Adults £30 and Childen £10. The days will run on Saturday 7th June and Saturday 16th August 2008 from 10am- 4pm
Related: Chocolate on an organic farm this easter | Alpaca baby hats from Entertaining Elephants | Men's and unisex alpaca accessories from Traidcraft
Green News
Like it or not, kids are big fans of fizzy pop, and many get through a fair few cans of drink during the school week. Education is the key to ensuring these don't end up 'decorating' the streets, and a new project has just launched to tackle this very problem.
Thinkcans new kids' area teaches children all they need to know about disposing of aluminium drinks cans in a green and responsible manner, through a series of fun games and downloads. There are also some useful materials for teachers hoping to pass on the recycling message to junior and early secondary school pupils. The project is brought to you by Novelis, Europe's only dedicated aluminium can recycling plant which is capable of recycling every aluminium can sold in the UK. And it's not just for kids...if you're in any doubt as to how you go about recycling your mid-morning can of diet cola, check out the site and be educated.
Kids stuff
Babies put everything in their mouths, so it's good to have at least some things in the house that are guaranteed safe for chewing.
All the toys at Zoe B Organic are free of substances that have raised alarm in the past, such as Parabens, PVC, phtalates and BPA (bisphenol-A); all of which have traditoinally been used in baby toys. The cute little mushroom pictured here is made from 100% natrual rubber with non-toxic paints, and is also available in pink or the ever-popular 'non gender specific' yellow. Called 'Chan Pie Gnon', it's just one of many teething toys, dummies and bottles on sale here; all are made in France.
If you like the look of Zoe B's toys, there's currently a 10% off offer at the label's blog. Simply quote the code "safeteether" at Zoë b Organic with your purchase; offer ends 31/03/08.
Kids stuff
Anyone who's ever been a child will remember the real reason we showed up at friend's birthday parties: was it the birthday cake? the games? the joy of seeing your little friends' eyes light up as they opened up your gift? Of course it wasn't. It was the party loot bag full of swag that your friend's mother handed out to you at the end.
So we all know now what a heinous crime it would be not to provide loot bags at the end of a children's party. Fortunately, you don't have to compromise your principles to do this now that Little Cherry have launched a range of exciting eco-friendly party bags, packed with sustainable and ethically-made toys that children will actually want to play with. There are girls' bags, boys' bags, unisex bags and different sizes and prices to choose from. Browse the entire range here. From £4 at Little Cherry.
Related: Ethical, fairtrade, 100% biodegradable balloons
Barbie as an eco-warrior raises a few questions, not least how it's possible to take on such a roll when you're entirely made of plastic. But Mattel has announced that it is to launch a range of accessories made from the leftover fabric from making the Barbie toys.
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