Green word watch
May 10, 2008
ecolonomics (noun) \E-ko-low-NAW-miks\
1. A blend of ecology and economics. Sustainable living through environmentally friendly business practices. Simply put, ecolonomics means maintaining natural resources in ways that are economically sound. There is even an Institute of Ecolonomics, founded by actor Dennis Weaver, whose mission is “to demonstrate that creating a symbiotic relationship between a strong economy and a healthy ecology is the only formula for a sustainable future.”
Proposed bill threatens natural health products
May 10, 2008
Bill C-51, a proposed legislation to amend the federal Food and Drugs Act that would lead to more regulatory scrutiny of natural health products sold in Canada, is drawing opponents across the country. Critics say the bill will outlaw up to 60 percent of natural health products currently sold, making many natural health products that have been sold here for decades unavailable for purchase and penalizing parents who give herbs or supplements to their children.
Green your spring clean
May 6, 2008
The arrival of spring means fresh leaves, fresh air, and freshly cleaned homes for many Vancouverites. But when it comes to cleaning your house or apartment, what does clean really mean? Many people associate cleanliness with the scent of ammonia, pine or chlorine bleach. The majority of the conventional cleaning products we grew up with are petroleum-based and full of colourants, perfumes and toxic VOCs - risking not only our own health, but that of the environment. We’ve put together some alternative ideas to help you “green” your spring clean and lessen your impact on the planet.
US following our lead in examining bisphenol A
May 4, 2008
Canada’s decision to propose listing bisphenol A (BPA) as “toxic” and ban the chemical from baby bottles has set a precedent that U.S. governments and major retailers are following. A bill was introduced this week to prohibit BPA in children’s products and food containers. Senator and presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton is among the bill’s co-sponsors. Ten states, including Maryland and California, are also considering regulation of BPA in consumer products.