Lifestyle

Have you ever thought about what your shower curtain is made of? Did you ever take a whiff of a new vinyl shower curtain? (I admittedly used to like that smell - odd I know.) Well, I now know that "new" fragrance is a result of the off-gassing from polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC.) PVC can contain toxic chemical additives like DEHP. Health experts report that exposure to these chemicals should be limited. This study found that high levels of DEHP are contained in shower curtains, and have been linked to asthma and brain development issues for children.

This week marks the 3rd annual Hemp History Week movement and activists are hoping to spread the message that it's time to bring back hemp to United States farms. In case your familiarity with hemp doesn't extend beyond those annoying necklaces they sell at the beach let's rewind a bit. What is hemp, really? Essentially it's the non-drug variety that's grown from Cannabis. Yes, cannabis is often known as marijuana, but hemp contains almost zero tetrahydrocannabinol (THC - the marijuana part of the plant.)

Memorial Day weekend calls for shaking off stress, enjoying friends and family, and perhaps a delicious cocktail (or two.) This recipe for a refreshing, seasonal blueberry mojito will start your long weekend off on the right foot. Bonus: it's fairly low calorie, and simple to make! Click through for the recipe.

It's time to start planning your summer entertainment indulgences. One of my favorite things about the warm season is all the opportunities to enjoy live outdoor music. If you're headed to Bonnaroo, Lollapalooza, Philly's WXPN festival, Outside Lands, or any other fest you'll want to keep things green while rocking out. Here's 5 must -know tips to be prepared:

The average American generates 4.6 pounds of trash per day. 2 1/2 lbs goes to landfill and the remainder is recycled or incinerated. Before putting something in your trash can or taking it the curb, think about possible sustainable you can implement.  Try purchasing reusable dish rags over sponges, or towels instead of the paper version. You can even challenge your household: Set one small trash bin out for each member of your household, and see who has the most in it each week.  The loser takes out everyone's trash for one month. Readers, what can you change in your household?  Please share in the comments.

> Brides and Grooms-to-be: we've discussed enviro-friendly tips for the ceremony. Now it's time to talk about the part-tay. Read on for tips on greening the reception...

As you know from my locavore kick, you can reduce your carbon footprint and get fresher, tastier foods when sourcing locally. This Mother's Day, try planning an all-locally sourced meal!  Whether free-range omelets or seasonal fruit pancakes, you're sure to put a smile on Mom's face. Find delicious meat-free options like these Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins or veggie brunch ideas. Check out other ways to green your mother's day!

It's wedding season. Planning your own (or your best friend, sibling or child's) wedding is undoubtedly exciting... and sometimes just a teeny bit overwhelming. There's a ton of decisions to make and for those who are eco-minded there's the question of how to pull it all off with sustainability in mind. Today let's talk about the ceremony. Ceremony traditions & rituals can depend on religion and heritage but typically they're a pretty important part of the day. It's when the "deal" is sealed after all. Read on for tips on greening the all-important ceremony...

Feliz Cinco De Mayo! As Dictator of a Mexican Eating Club (or "Mexadelphia" as a few close amigos call it), I'm taking tomorrow's fiesta with pride.  How can you celebrate my 2nd favorite holiday the eco-friendly way? Here's a few sustainable celebration & vegetarian comida options: