Daily Greenz #149

Muji is to Japan what IKEA is to the U.S.  Since they opened their doors 25 years ago, Muji has gone on to establish a worldwide presence with their eco-friendly, innovative products that range from furniture to prefab houses.  Before it was hip to be green, Muji was already implementing sustainable practices and utilizing discarded materials to create practical, stylish goods.  Operating from a “less is more” philosophy, they eliminate cluttered features, over-processing, and over-packaging.  With one store already open in New York’s SoHo and another scheduled to open in the New York Times building in midtown this year, consumers will want to check out what the hype is all about.

Personally, we’re excited to have another option besides home products giant IKEA, who has ruled the market for years.  With products like cardboard speakers and toys made from sustainably harvested wood, we think Muji will give IKEA a run for its money as it opens stores in other major U.S. cities in the next several years.  Their reasonable prices for top-quality furniture, houseware, electronics, and apparel will have consumers wanting more.  Check out their products at www.muji.com.

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Daily Greenz #142

Eco-conscious consumers will delight in Greenopia’s new “Guide to Green Living” for New Yorkers.  Originally released in L.A. and San Francisco in 2006 and 2007, respectively, Greenopia’s book quickly became the go-to guide for those seeking green businesses and services in their local area.  Due to popular demand, the New York City version was released on Earth Day this year and contains over 1,300 listings of bona fide green businesses and services in all five boroughs, offering New Yorkers the resource to make greener, healthier purchasing choices every day.

What was the behind-the-scenes selection process, you ask?  Greenopia’s team of highly-qualified researchers was sent out to test thousands of businesses systematically – from restaurants to stores, to salons, to hotels – and only those meeting the Greenopia Distinguished Business standards were included in the guide.  Each business was rated 1-4 leaves (their unique grading system) based on its performance of eco-friendly products or services.  No biased ratings here, as businesses can’t pay to be in the guide and advertising is not accepted.

Printed on FSC-certified recycled paper, the guide also offers additional green living tips and is supplemented by an online Greenopia resource.  If your New Year’s resolution was to live greener this year, Greenopia just made your mission that much easier.  Pick up a copy for $17.95 at www.greenopia.com or at your local Barnes & Noble, Whole Foods, or Macy’s.

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Daily Greenz #75
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