Why choosing a natural tree is better for forests, farmers, and the planet

Every December, millions of families face the same question: real tree or artificial? While artificial trees are marketed as convenient and reusable, the reality is more complex. When it comes to environmental impact, community support, and even holiday tradition, the evidence is overwhelmingly in favor of choosing a Real Christmas Tree. Here’s why.

Real Christmas Trees aren’t taken from forests — they’re grown on farms. In the United States alone, 350 million trees are growing on dedicated Christmas tree farms, planted and cared for by farmers solely for holiday use. The industry supports about 15,000 farms and provides work for over 100,000 people in full- and part-time jobs.

Related: Rent a real Christmas tree

Every year, Americans purchase 25–30 million Real Christmas Trees (according to the National Christmas Tree Association), directly supporting rural economies and preserving open green space, around 350,000 acres of it. Buying real means investing in American agriculture instead of overseas manufacturing.

Unlike artificial trees, which are made of non-biodegradable plastics and can contain metal toxins like lead, real Christmas trees are entirely natural and recyclable. After the holidays, trees can be composted, turned into mulch, used in dune restoration, or donated for wildlife habitat. That’s why more than 4,000 Christmas tree recycling programs operate across the US. If one doesn’t exist, consider opening one as a college project.

Real trees also ensure continuous renewal: for every tree harvested, farmers plant 1 to 3 seedlings the next spring, keeping the cycle alive. They also smell a lot better than plastic.

Most artificial trees, about 80%, according to the US Commerce Department are made in China. Their production and shipping generate significant carbon emissions, and once they are thrown away, they remain in landfills for centuries. While marketed as reusable, studies show an artificial tree must be kept at lea

rs to offset its environmental impact, and most don’t last that long. The plastic lingers probably forever.

By contrast, real Christmas trees actively clean the air as they grow. A single farmed tree can take 7 years on average to reach typical height, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen throughout its life cycle. If you rent a tree, even better.

Real Christmas trees are one of the few agricultural products grown in every US state and across Canada. The top-producing states are Oregon, North Carolina, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Washington and these states ship millions of trees nationwide, ensuring that most consumers can purchase a locally sourced product. Christmas tree farms are an actual business.

Buying local reduces transportation emissions and keeps holiday spending circulating within nearby communities.

Christmas tree farms don’t displace forests — they preserve working green space and prevent development. Managed tree fields provide habitat for birds and small mammals, protect soil integrity, and maintain rural ecological balance. In many areas, former agricultural land has been restored through Christmas tree cultivation.

Beyond the environmental and economic arguments, there’s something deeply meaningful about bringing home a real tree. The scent, the feel, the ritual of choosing the perfect one, even if it’s only perfect to you, well these are things an artificial tree simply can’t replicate. A real Christmas tree connects you to nature, to local growers, and to a living cycle that continues long after the decorations come down.

And if you aren’t sold, go for an alternative tree idea. Here are 8 Christmas trees that you can make without cutting down or buying a plastic tree.

The post The benefits of a real Christmas tree appeared first on Green Prophet.

On February 10, 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order banning the use of paper straws in federal agencies, advocating for a return to plastic straws, which he claims are more effective. I have to say I have started the practice of bringing my own straws to fast food restaurants when I eat at them with my children because the paper straws dissolve in my mouth and leave a really bad feel and experience.

There was some irony of it in getting an entire meal packaged in plastic, wrapped in plastic and served in plastic, and then using a paper straw, but environmentalists argue that the straws are particularly harmful to wildlife because of the shape and size.

This move reverses a Biden administration policy that aimed to phase out single-use plastics, including straws, in federal operations by 2035. Trump dismissed concerns about plastic pollution, stating that plastic straws do not significantly affect marine life. Consumers are also concerned at the same time that plastics aren’t being recycled.

Environmentalists criticized the straw decision, citing the global plastic pollution crisis and the harmful impacts of microplastics on wildlife and ecosystems. Despite broader efforts to reduce plastic waste, Trump’s order has been supported by the plastics industry but diverges from many companies’ sustainability goals. The controversy highlights the ongoing debate over environmental policies and the balance between convenience and ecological responsibility.

Lisa Ramsden, Greenpeace USA’s senior plastics campaigner says, “Donald Trump’s Executive Order on plastic straws is a distraction from his administration’s efforts to prevent the EPA, the FDA and the NIH from protecting Americans from microplastics and dangerous chemicals.

“Plastics contain more than 16,000 chemicals, with over 3,200 known to cause cancer, disrupt hormones, contribute to obesity, or trigger early puberty in children. These chemicals have also been linked to reproductive health problems and declining fertility. So while the administration feigns concerns for Americans’ health and the declining birth rate, policies like this are exacerbating a public health crisis that drains over $250 billion from our economy annually.”

You can still do your part by opting out from using paper straws or ones made from sugarcane. There are several alternatives to paper straws that aim to reduce plastic waste while maintaining functionality:

Stainless Steel Straws – Durable and reusable, stainless steel straws are a popular alternative, easy to clean, and environmentally friendly for long-term use. You need to carry these on hand, and they need to be washed thoroughly with a special tiny brush.

Glass Straws – Made from tempered glass, these straws are reusable and offer a sleek, eco-friendly option. They are transparent and provide a similar feel to plastic, though they can be more fragile. They can also be dangerous for children.

Bamboo Straws – A natural, biodegradable option, bamboo straws are durable and compostable, making them a sustainable choice for those looking for an eco-friendly alternative. These aren’t easy to find and they are expensive.

Silicone Straws – Flexible and reusable, silicone straws are gentle on the mouth, dishwasher safe, and available in various sizes and colors. They are a safe, practical option for both kids and adults. Again, cleaning them thoroughly is an issue.

Edible Straws – Made from materials like rice, seaweed, or even fruit, these biodegradable straws are not only eco-friendly but can be consumed after use. They do leave an aftertaste and residue. Nice idea, but not practical.

Plant-based Biodegradable Straws – These straws are made from materials like cornstarch, sugarcane, or plant fibers that break down naturally in the environment, offering a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic straws. We are rooting for this option. Get your thinking caps on engineers and make biodegradable plastic better than petrol-based plastics.

Here are five U.S.-based companies that produce biodegradable straws:

Aardvark Straws – Known for their paper straws, Aardvark offers biodegradable and compostable products made from sustainable materials, including paper.

BioStraws – This company manufactures biodegradable, compostable, and plant-based straws made from cornstarch and other renewable resources.

Ecology – They produce compostable straws made from plant-based materials like sugarcane and corn, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic straws.

Greenworks – Greenworks offers biodegradable paper and plant-based straws that break down naturally and are a sustainable choice for businesses.

StrawFree – This company produces compostable straws made from materials such as bamboo, which are both biodegradable and eco-friendly.

The post Trump brings back plastic straws, what can we do? appeared first on Green Prophet.

If you’re looking for gifts for the man in your life, then this gift guide will give you some ideas. From a solar-powered watch to ecologically sound clothing and beyond, there are plenty of great options that he’ll love. And best of all, they’re all sustainable. So, whether the man in your life is a resource-efficient guy or just someone who appreciates great gifts, sustainable gifts for him are sure to be received thankfully.

1. Lip Balm Made With Organic Beeswax

Is the man in your life looking for a way to hydrate his lips and feel good about doing it? Natural lip balm is the perfect gift! This lip balm is made with organic beeswax that provides long-lasting hydration without any chapping or cracking of the lips. Plus, it comes in various flavors so that you can find the perfect one for him. 

2. Solar-Powered Watch

Solar-powered watches can make an excellent gift for the eco-conscious man in your life who wants to reduce his environmental impact. And because it’s solar-powered, he’ll never have to worry about batteries dying or replacing them. These watches come in various colors and styles to suit any taste; some are water resistant.

3. Vegan Leather Wallet

A stylish vegan leather wallet is a great gift for a man who cares about animals and the environment. They are usually made from sustainable materials like recycled nylons and rubber, so it’s gentle on the planet. Plus, it’s PETA approved, so you can be sure that no animals were harmed in its production. He’ll love carrying his wallet, knowing it’s cruelty-free and environmentally friendly.

4. Sustainable Clothing

Sustainable clothing is a great gift for any man who cares about the environment. Sustainable shirts, jackets and more are made from organic hemp, bamboo or recycled materials. They’re gentle on the planet, and they look great too!

5. Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is a must-have for anyone who wants to stay hydrated. Reusable bottles are sustainable, eco-friendly and stylish. They make the perfect gift for the man who wants to reduce his plastic use and help save the planet. Insulated water bottles can keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours or hot for up to 12, so he can enjoy his favorite beverages anytime, anywhere.

6. Sustainable Home Goods

Sustainable home goods make a great gift for the man who might have recently moved out to live on his own. These products are also a simple way to introduce someone to living a low-waste lifestyle. From sustainable sheets and towels to cookware and beyond, you can find a wide selection of eco-friendly home goods that are sure to please. And because they’re made from sustainable materials, he’ll be helping to reduce his impact on the environment every time he uses them.

7. Natural Dry Deodorant That’s Aluminum Free

Plastic-free deodorant is a must-have for any eco-conscious man, and a naturally derived dry deodorant that’s aluminum free fits the bill. This natural formula is made with baking soda, arrowroot powder and cocoa butter and will keep him smelling great all day long and without harming the planet.

When shopping for a natural deodorant, be sure to search for one that kills odor-causing bacteria, neutralizes odor and absorbs sweat. Even though you are purchasing something eco-friendly, it should still work just as well as its non-natural counterpart. 

8. Dry Shampoo

Is the man in your life always on the go? If so, he’ll love using a natural dry shampoo. It’s perfect for busy guys who don’t have time to wash their hair daily. Just sprinkle a little on, massage it through the hair and style the hair as usual. This natural formula will absorb oil and leave hair looking and feeling fresh. 

9. Wooden Watch

A stylish wooden watch is a perfect gift for a man who loves the outdoors. Some models are water resistant so that he can wear them anywhere, including the shower. And because it’s wooden, it’s unique and different from any other watch he’s ever worn. Enhance the appeal of a wooden watch by including interchangeable watch bands. Choose from sustainable materials like recycled fabric or long-lasting silicone watch bands to maintain its environmentally conscious theme. This variety allows the wearer to customize their watch for different styles and activities, making the gift even more versatile and unique.He’ll love showing off his new watch to all his friends, and he’ll be doing his part to save the planet, too.

10. Sustainable Socks

Sustainable socks are the perfect gift for a man who loves to be comfortable. Many sustainable socks are made from a blend of bamboo or recycled cotton and merino wool, so they’re soft and warm. Because they come in various colors and styles, you can find the perfect pair to suit his personality.

Shop Sustainable Gifts for Him 

The perfect sustainable gift for the man in your life is out there. With a little thought and creativity, you can find something that he’ll love that won’t harm the planet. 

The post Gift Guide:10 Sustainable Gifts for the Man in Your Life appeared first on Green Prophet.

When it comes to being sustainably minded, it’s really a better practice to rescue or upcycle a product in your home than to buy a sustainable product made from protected forests and eco glue. There are instances when any material you bring into your home should be safe to use and smell – especially if it’s something you sleep beside or eat and wash with. But otherwise there are some handy non-eco products out there that can be your best friend if you are trying to extend the life of products and furniture around the home. My favorites are epoxy, duct tape, a hammer and nails, and a glue gun. 

How epoxy can upcycle your life

Epoxy can be used for plastic, metal, ceramic, glass and even wood. There is some element of mixing involved so learn how to use epoxy correctly. You can almost fix anything that might seem at first like a throwaway – you’d be surprised. In my sculpting studio I’ve made carving and pottery tools with epoxy. I found some old street washing metal brush and connected it using epoxy to a branch of rosewood and voila, a new tool that only cost pennies for the materials. 

The benefits of epoxy is that it is low-cost, easy to find, and is really tough and strong when put in place. The drawbacks: you need a certain type of epoxy for metal and wood and plastics. It can be corrosive to your fingers and a petroleum by-product – it off gasses. Lastly, it’s not transparent like a glue gun or crazy glue and it needs some time to stiffen. 

Duct tape your problems together

Duct tape: I could build hiking boots and shelter using duct tape, don’t get me started. I believe almost anything can be fixed with this kind of tape but don’t go overboard like the ramen noodle guy. 

But duct tape is really wonderful for repairing bags, wallets, for taping poles together, for fixing bits falling off your car door and handles. It can hold broken tiles together and can stick bits of wood on tight if rolled right. The drawback is that it’s an external repair so it’s not quite like stitching bits together. If you like the look you can make it your flair and buy silver, red or gold duct tape to show off your style. Or if you are ambitious, try sculpting with tape. 

Glue guns instead of a sewing machine

Glue guns: if you are a lazy mom like me, glue guns are my saviour around Halloween time. You can take all sorts of random things you have around the house and cut them up and swiftly make your kid a costume or into an upcycled kite. In the past women used to know how to sew costumes and dresses to make it work but if you don’t have time and want to avoid buying a bought costume, whip out your glue gun and start “sewing” the easy way. 

Drawback: it’s not pretty and as finished looking as sewing. Threads of glue can stick out from the seams and it won’t last nearly as long as sewing. But if you need a temporary fix try the glue gun. 

The basic hammer and nail

A hammer and nails. This simple household tool can get you far. With a variety of nail sizes from teeny tiny to larger 2 inch nails… you can hang pictures, fix bumpy wood and even install a shelf. For load bearing items – things that will need to carry substantial weight, better to use screws. But you can always try at first with a simple hammer and nail. You can make a clothes hook, a way to hang a small found mirror in your bathroom. A hammer can straighten out of line wood beams. 

The post Simple tools you need at home for fixing anything appeared first on Green Prophet.

Renovating your home is a great way to improve your quality of life. As this process requires a big investment, plan every little thing to avoid any mistakes. Keep reading to find sixteen actionable tips that can help you renovate your home the right way. 

Focus on efficiency

You should not let the home renovation plan take months to complete. Getting more comfort is the reason behind the renovation, and it’s not good if home renovation becomes uncomfortable for you. 

Get the home renovation work completed by overcoming the challenges you face. Hire a reliable home renovation service that can renovate your home without wasting your time, money, and effort. 

Choose comfort over looks

Home renovation is not all about changing the looks of your home. Your primary motive behind home renovation should be making your home comfier. Start your home renovation plan with your bedroom. 

Buy a new memory foam mattress for your bedroom if your current mattress is almost 10 years old. Avoid buying any items for your bedroom that look stylish but don’t provide comfort. 

Proper budgeting

Home renovation can cost you a lot of money if you don’t plan things accordingly. Start your home renovation plan after creating a proper budget. 

You can estimate the costs of the home renovation yourself, however, you should hire a contractor to estimate the costs. You should delay your home renovation plan if you don’t have enough money to get started. 

Set a timeframe

A simple home renovation plan takes about 7 to 10 months. But it might take more than 15 months if you remodel your home completely. After analyzing how much free time you have, you must start your home renovation plan. 

Create a proper schedule for renovation and stick to it. Hire a trusted home renovation service that can get work done on time. 

Do proper research

You will have to spend a ton of time researching if you choose the DIY home renovation route. However, you still have to research if you hire a home renovation service. 

Don’t make any hasty decisions unless you know enough about home renovation. You can do online research to gather the right information necessary for the successful completion of home renovation. 

Limits of DIY approach

A DIY home renovation plan has its disadvantages. It’s easier to make small changes to your home on your own. However, if you want to remodel your home completely, you won’t renovate it without making any mistakes. 

Make a list of what changes you want in your home. Hire a home renovation service if you can’t do things yourself. 

Choose the right services

Don’t hire any home renovation service that’s near your home. Hiring an incompetent home renovation service will result in a waste of your time and effort. 

Do proper research before choosing a home renovation service. Check online reviews of different services to verify their reliability. Choose an agency that can complete renovation on time. You should compare the quotes of different agencies to pick the most affordable. 

Store your tools carefully

Construction tools scattered throughout your home can cause injury. You have to place all your tools at a specific place. If you go down the DIY renovation route, place your tools carefully after completing the renovation task. 

The renovation agency you hire might leave their tools at your home. Keep pets and kids away from those tools.  

Stay safe during renovation

You can easily get injured during the home renovation if you are not careful. Stay alert during the home renovation to avoid any unnecessary injuries. Keep your kids away from renovation tools and materials. If you don’t stay in your home during renovation hours, you should send your dog to a pet boarding service to ensure their safety. 

Use proper tech tools

Tech tools can help you plan home construction the right way. You can create a 3D model of how your home will look after renovation. Using social media can help you link up with good home renovation services. Budgeting tools can help you create a proper budget for home renovation. Spend some time researching tools that can make the renovation process easier for you. 

Get approval for renovation

Improper renovation might result in personal injury or property loss in the future. It’s important to get approval from local authorities before renovating your home. Getting approval ensures that renovation work done in your home doesn’t violate any safety standards. Contact the office of local authorities to get approval before you start on home renovation. 

Proper schedule for cleanup

Set some time aside in the daily renovation schedule to get rid of the renovation mess. Choose the right tools for cleanup and don’t ignore your daily renovation routine. If you don’t have time to clean up your home, you can ask the renovation service you hire to clean your home. 

Plan according to weather conditions

Improper weather conditions can ruin your home renovation project. Check the short-term and long-term weather forecast so you don’t waste your time and money on renovation. Ask your contractor if they can continue the renovation project during harsh weather. However, if there are chances of snowfall or heavy rain, it’s better to postpone renovation. 

Focus on recommendations

It can become difficult for you to gather information about home renovation all by yourself. Ask for recommendations from your friends and family about home renovation. Their experience can help you make the right decisions about renovation and help you save money. 

Don’t forget about recycling

Dumping the material left after home renovation is not the right option. Most of the materials that are removed from your home during renovation can be recycled. Take a look at all the appliances and fixtures present in your home. Look for a recycling facility in your area and check if they can visit your home to take things that can be recycled. 

Buy products at affordable prices

You can save your renovation costs if you buy products at affordable prices. Don’t rely on the nearest shop to buy all the items you need for renovation. Compare prices of different stores online to cut your costs. Look for specific discounts and sales online. 

The post 16 Remodeling Tips to Follow When Renovating Your Home appeared first on Green Prophet.

What does it mean when a product is labeled as eco-friendly?

The term seems to appear everywhere online or in physical stores. Quite simply, an eco-friendly product is something that is not harmful and is beneficial to the environment. These products do not add unnecessary waste and do not harm our ecology. They represent sustainability at its finest.

All of us look forward to seeing the appreciative faces of our loved ones the moment they open the gifts we painstakingly picked for them. We all want the perfect gift for the special and important people in our lives. But the sad reality is, gift-giving contributes to unnecessary wastes during major holidays.

Choosing eco-friendly gifts not only gives you the opportunity to make your loved ones happy, but giving one can also make a positive impact on the planet. Buying sustainable products might feel like a very small change in terms of helping the environment, but that small, nearly insignificant decision can create a domino effect that will result in an even bigger positive impact on the world. As they say, a small change is better than no change at all. Also, nothing says “You are important to me and the world we live in” like ethical, sustainable, and environment-friendly gifts.

Now, eco-conscious gifts do not have to be limited to plain old reusable grocery bags or recycled brown toilet paper. Gone were the days of drab and unimaginable brown and green things. Here are a few of the best eco-friendly and organic gifts you may want to check out. Just be sure to wrap them in matching recycled papers too!

For the eco-conscious mama:

Lively Lion Organic Basket

New moms will always appreciate hampers of baby things for their baby boys. This seagrass basket is filled to the brim with cute and sustainable clothing items for their precious baby boy including baby booties for those wee feet, knitted and wooden lion rattle, plush and knitted lion and a plush security blanket which if it isn’t cute enough on its own, can be personalized. The basket also has a baby hat, a baby lion jacket, footed bootie bottoms, a lion, and a striped onesie all organically made, of course. JetGiftBaskets.com also offers jet-speed delivery (I’m sure you figured that out just by the name).

For that loved one who always have cold feet:

Cozy Eco Friendly Slippers

Who doesn’t love fuzzy slippers? These slippers are stylish and comfortable with the added benefit of being eco-friendly. All MadeTrade products are dubbed as “ethically elevated” which means that you are making a positive impact every time you shop with them. Do you know what this means? Quarantining in the house doesn’t sound so bad after all when you live and breathe in these heaven-for-your-feet slippers.

For the master campers and grill enthusiast:

Prime 6 Charcoal Starter Pack

With sustainable charcoal produced from recycled hardwood-waste sawdust with no fillers or chemicals, this pack is sure to light up your loved ones’ next cookout. The Prime 6 can be reused and relighted up to seven times until it’s burned away. In addition to leaving very little ash, a new tree is planted by the brand for every pack you purchase. Double win!

For the techie who is always on the go:

Solar-Powered Phone Charger

Camping trips do not have to be 100 percent phone-free. This wireless, solar-powered charger is a great buddy when conventional chargers are far away. It also features a built-in compass and flashlight, quite handy for camping at night provided they have been charged during the day. Additionally, this charger can also be useful even for everyday charging needs. Who knows reducing your loved ones’ electricity bills can be so easy? Just prop them up outside on sunny days and they will soak up all that good solar power for future phone charging.

For the jewelry lover:

KBH Jewels

Minimalist-style jewelry sets are the rage these days. Everyone appreciates these beautiful, covetable, and lifelong gifts but who knew these can also be sustainable and innovative? This collection is handcrafted with 14K of solid reclaimed gold, lab-grown diamonds, and sustainably cultured pearls. Even the jewelry pouches are made with GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified materials. So you see, that bling does not need to come with ecosystem destruction, water pollution, armed conflicts, child labor, and unsafe working conditions.

The post Eco-Friendly Gift Ideas appeared first on Green Prophet.

Did you hear that thud? Someone just threw away a mattress. And another. And another. Every single day, tens of thousands of used mattresses are discarded to landfills. In fact, around 40 million mattresses are disposed of in the United States each year.

The worst part? Around 80% of a typical mattress is completely recyclable, yet most of these discarded mattresses end up landfills, illegally discarded by roadsides or tossed in the woods.

Why aren’t we recycling our old mattresses? Maybe ignorance is bliss, because there certainly are many different ways for sustainable disposal. Let’s do better, America!

Eco-Friendly Mattress Disposal Alternatives

Getting ready to replace an uncomfortable mattress or buy an entirely new bed? There is almost never a reason why you can’t do better for Mother Earth when tossing out a mattress, and sending it to the landfill should only ever be a very last resort, after all other options have been ruled out.

Let’s take a look at some of the top sustainable ways to dispose of that old mattress without putting stress on the environment.

1. Warranty Based Recycling

Before you do anything else, find out if your old mattress is still under warranty. Many mattress manufacturers are retailers offer warranty-based recycling or buyback opportunities. Many companies will even pick up and dispose of your mattress for you at absolutely no charge.

While disposing of a mattress in a landfill is not illegal, there are several states that require mattress manufacturers to charge a disposal fee on each mattress and box spring sale they make. These fees are then fueled into sustainable mattress disposal, including recycling programs and drop-off centers.

If you’re not sure if your mattress is still under warranty or not, you can contact the company to find out. In some cases, even if your warranty has expired, the company may still be able to help you recycle your old mattress.

2. Resell Your Mattress

How old is your mattress? If it’s only a couple of years to ten years old, and still in decent, useable condition, you may very well be able to resell a used mattress.

Local consignment stores may take quality used mattresses, and, if so, they typically dispose of items that don’t sell, so that you don’t have to.

Ebay, Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist also make good places to resell a mattress. Frequently, online buyers will arrange to have large items, like mattresses, picked up from your home, and you won’t ever have to lift a finger. For a quick sale, try the “Buy it Now” selling method on Ebay, and allow potential buyers to make offers.

4.Give Away or Donate

Can’t sell it? Why not give it away or donate it to a good cause? Offer a good condition, used mattress for free on Craigslist or Facebook, and you’ll likely have it gone by tomorrow. Goodwill Industries will also take used mattresses that are in resalable condition.

Alternatively, if your mattress is in overall decent condition, clean, disinfected and bug-free, you can donate it to a charity. If you donate a mattress or box spring to Habitat for Humanity, they will refurbish it and pass it on to someone in need.

Homeless shelters may also be in need of mattress donations. If your mattress is in decent shape, and you’d be happy to sleep on it if you weren’t getting a new one, more than likely a shelter will be grateful to take it off your hands.

Don’t think your mattress is good enough? Never fear, an animal shelter may be able to use it! While not all animal rescues and shelters will take used mattresses, some will be extremely happy to do so, since old mattresses can make great beds for dogs and cats.

If you’re not sure if an organization will take your mattress or not, simply contact them and ask. Most charities are happy to help you figure out what to do with something you don’t need.

4.Pass the Buck

Exhausted your recycling, selling and donating options? Or, maybe you simply don’t feel like trying any of the above? That’s okay. There are plenty of junk removal companies who will take your old mattress of your hands.

Fees for mattress removal vary widely, depending on where you live, the mattress size and the company itself, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $100 to have your old mattress hauled off. Still, that seems like a small price to pay, when you won’t ever have to lift a finger.

4.Repurpose That Thing

Wait, I can do what with a mattress? That’s right, mattress upcycling and repurposing crafts are totally a thing. If you’re crafty or artistic, you may find that repurposing your old mattress is the best answer.

Let’s Get Comfy!

You could turn your old mattress into an outdoor lounge area, a porch daybed, a guest bed or even a couch. Better yet, upcycle a damaged quilt or ratty afghan by sewing it onto your old mattress to give it some aesthetic charm.

Make a Masterpiece

Like to paint? A set of box springs could easily be turned into a giant canvas for your next masterpiece. With a fabric backdrop that large, the possibilities are pretty much endless.

Plant a Garden

Turn those bedsprings upside down and you’ve got yourself an instant planter for flowers, vegetables, shrubs or small trees. Paint the springs in vibrant, rainbow hues for a burst of color, and tuck some terracotta pots into the springs.

Wining and Dining

Use a whole set of springs as a wine rack, or attach single, large springs to wood pieces and make hanging bottle holders. You can also create mug and teacup storage with a box spring or metal cot frame. Simply attach the frame to the wall or hang it overhead, and then fix hooks onto the springs.

These are just a few possibilities for craftily repurposing a mattress or set of springs. You can find hundreds of other ideas with a quick Google search.

The post Sustainable Ways to Dispose of Old Mattresses appeared first on Green Prophet.

With the development of modern business techniques, many organizations have revamped their strategies to stay relevant to the global market. In the era of digital marketing, websites and ecommerce stores are playing a strong role in providing an online market to the consumers. These platforms provide premium quality products to their customers at a reasonable price, which makes them popular among the digital audience.

Nowadays, free shipping has become extremely common amongst businesses as well. Companies view this as a great marketing strategy. Free shipping has indeed shown great results as 9 out of 10 buyers are attracted to those markets which offer free shipping. Free shipping has a positive psychological influence on the customers, as more than half of the customers look at the shipping fee before they proceed with their shopping spree.

Is the ‘Free Shipping’ Strategy Worth it?

Many businesses have taken on this strategy. It has become so ubiquitous that now customers expect free shipping almost every time they shop from any online platform. Hence, this strategy makes the online business market more competitive and upholds the customer’s requirements. With many brands opting this strategy, it is wise for small businesses to adopt it as well, in order to compete at the highest level. Nonetheless, even if no company has taken on this strategy, then it is a great opportunity for one’s business to utilize. With renowned platforms like Amazon making use of this strategy, the customers have become accustomed to free shipping hence, one’s business needs to stay competitive to be relevant in the market.

Though high numbers and good results can get one excited, companies often fail to understand that this is just one of the many promotional strategies and if the business is not able to handle such extra expenses, they can always opt for another way to promote their business. Many factors may prove that this strategy can become unsustainable for them. There is a high shipping fee over international orders, therefore, companies have to devise a blended strategy accordingly. But they cannot disregard such offers as well since they play a big part in the growth of the company.

Increasing Volume of Sales Through Free Shipping

If a business plays its cards right, it can tremendously increase its sales. Offering free shipping during the season of your top or best selling products can be profitable for the company. Next, set a threshold for free shipping, this will incentivize the customers to shop more till that mark is reached. However, make sure that the threshold is not set too high. Additionally, offer free shipping on returns, only if one’s business rarely gets returns. This tends to build trust between the two parties.

Another good technique would be to mention the amount of money that they have saved from free shipping. Once a company learns how to effectively play out this strategy, they will surely see ascending numbers in their sales. To get free shipping at checkout, customers can make use of online coupons, like Newegg promotion codes to acquire major discounts on a range of products. They provide a list of companies offering free shipping to make life easier for the customers.

The post Tips and Tricks to Increase Sales Through Free Shipping appeared first on Green Prophet.

Every year, as many as 15-20 million mattresses are thrown away, filling landfills. And millions more mattresses are manufactured to take their place, consuming resources and potentially adding more toxic chemicals into the environment.

Many mattress manufacturers have started to recognize the impact of their business on the environment, though, and have begun taking steps to reduce their impact. From the materials they use to their manufacturing processes to policies regarding recycling, modern mattress companies are doing more to support the environment than ever before. 

Changing Manufacturing Processes and Materials

Many mattress manufacturers have committed to reducing their carbon footprint in all aspects of their business, from the materials they use to how they ship their products. For example, some of the common manufacturing initiatives include:

• Using recycled steel for inner springs and box spring components
• Using bamboo and organic cotton for coverings
• Eliminating harmful chemicals, including PBDE flame retardants, phthalates, and CFCs, as well as heavy metals like lead and mercury, from their mattress products and using natural flame retardants instead to meet safety standards.
• Using wood from sustainable forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council
• Changing manufacturing processes to “just in time” to reduce energy usage and the need for excess warehouse space
• Reducing packaging
• Shifting to high-efficiency equipment and introducing maintenance and recycling initiatives to reduce energy usage and waste

Although these initiatives may not reduce all of the environmental impact of the mattress manufacturing process, it is making a difference. In fact, one area where mattress makers are making great strides is developing organic and eco-friendly mattresses. Although the foams and materials used in mattresses have come a long way, they still often use man-made components derived from petroleum or other products, albeit in much lower quantities than in the past. The best organic mattresses, however, are made primarily from naturally-derived, sustainable latex. Latex comes from rubber trees, and is naturally antimicrobial and durable. This durability is important, as it allows latex mattresses to last longer, ultimately keeping more mattresses out of landfills. 

Mattress Recycling Programs

Because of the amount of space they take up in landfills (a single mattress uses 23 cubic feet of space) and the difficulty inherent in crushing and processing them, many local and regional landfills have either banned mattresses altogether, or made it unattractive for consumers to leave mattresses by increasing tipping fees. Instead, most landfills are requiring mattresses be recycled instead, and to help support that effort, a number of mattress manufacturers have built, or supported the development of dedicated mattress recycling centers. In most cases, 90 percent or more of the components of a mattress can be recycled and used for other products, keeping most of the materials out of landfills. 

Some of these recycling programs are required by law. Connecticut led the way by enacting “extended producer responsibility” laws for mattresses. Under these laws, which have extended to several states, consumers pay a fee when they purchase a new mattress to cover the collection, recycling, and refurbishment of old mattresses. In the states with EPR laws (currently Connecticut, Rhode Island, and California), mattress manufacturers have come together to form the Mattress Recycling Council, a nonprofit organization that handles all aspects of mattress disposal. 

Unfortunately, not all states have eco-friendly mattress disposal programs. In some cases, because of laws regarding the sale of mattresses and health standards, mattresses returned by consumers are destroyed and sent to the landfill. However, with the growing popularity of bed in a box and direct to consumer sales for mattresses, that process is becoming somewhat less common. Most companies that sell mattresses directly to consumers have a recycling or donation program for mattresses that consumers return. For instance, Casper has donated more than 70,000 mattresses to various charitable organizations worldwide. Customers are still responsible for arranging for recycling when they want to replace their mattresses after a few years, but these policies still keep a fair number of mattresses out of landfills. 

Environmental Programs

Some mattress manufacturers are going beyond manufacturing and shipping changes, and using their products as a means to give back and support the environment. For example, Nolah manufactures their mattresses using AirFoam, a material that doesn’t contain viscoelastic foam like other brands. Their eco-consciousness doesn’t stop there, though. For every mattress purchased, the buyer has the opportunity to “adopt” an endangered animal, with the company donating profits to the Defenders of Wildlife. Other companies that support environmental causes include Brentwood Home, which donates three trees for every mattress purchased to the National Forest Foundation, and Avocado which manufactures green and vegan mattresses and donates a portion of their profits to environmental organizations each month. 

Mattress companies have come a long way in recent years in their efforts to become more sustainable and environmentally friendly. As new technologies for manufacturing develop, and recycling programs expand, the industry as a whole will reduce its impact on the planet while still giving us a comfortable place to sleep. 

The post How mattress companies are supporting the environment appeared first on Green Prophet.

Most people have heard of medical malpractice, but most individuals haven’t even heard of product liability. Just like a doctor can cause bodily harm products, like plastics, can injury you are well. Despite this fact, thousands of residents and citizens alike are injured every year by dangerous or defective consumer products. However, injury alone does not mean that the manufacturer is legally responsible. Product liability cases can get extremely complicated and navigating the law is murky at best. The first and most important thing that you are going to have to do in order to ensure the success of your case proves that the product actually caused you harm. This will prove that the manufacturer is legally liable for a defective product. Of course, this is much harder said than done and will probably require the assistance of a professional product liability attorney.

Understanding Strict Liability

In order to get ahead in a product liability case, you really need to understand every type of liability claim that is available. First is the strict liability claim and this basically refers to a case where the manufacturer is responsible for releasing a defective product onto the market regardless of negligence or intent. In this situation, this means that the victim or injured parties do not need to prove that the manufacturer did anything wrong. The main focus of the case will be whether or not the product was in an unsafe condition when it left the manufacturer’s control.

Understanding Negligence Claims

A negligence claim is something different altogether. These are the cases when you will need the experience and expertise of a qualified injury lawyer because they will most likely go into litigation. Negligence claims can revolve around a number of things. For instance, it could mean that the manufacturer knowingly used defective or inadequate materials. It could also mean that the design of the product was knowingly defective or inadequate. You can also make a negligence claim in the event that the manufacturer didn’t include proper instructions or warnings that led to injuries. However, in these cases in order to collect compensation for the injuries, you will have to prove four things. You will have to prove that the manufacturer owes you a legal duty, that the manufacturer breached their duty by action or inaction, and you will have to prove that you sustained actual injuries as a result of using this product.

Understanding Breach Of Warranty Claims

As a consumer, you probably know that many products come with warranties. In fact, this is probably one of the things that you consider most when you buy a product. This warranty will guarantee the quality of the product and its parts for a certain time period. This is simply referred to as express warranty and under this warranty, the consumer may seek damages in the event of a breach of this warranty. If the manufacturer does not stand behind the guarantee, you can seek damages. There is also an implied warranty and this means that the consumer can seek damages if the product does not do what it is expected without causing injuries.

The post Proving An Injury Was Due To A Product Defect appeared first on Green Prophet.