Green Father's Day

Father’s Day is just around the corner and, let’s face it, Dad can’t possibly use yet another tie. If you’re still on the hunt for the perfect present, read on. From cleaner, greener barbecue gear to solar-powered chargers, we’ve got you covered.

Top 5 Green Tips

Say It With Electronics
Green Grooming
Break Out the 'Cue
Efficiency Rules
A Toast to Organic (and Dad)

Top 5 Green Tips

1. Say It With Electronics

Dads like gadgets. It just seems to be wired into their DNA. One of the hottest tech items on the market is Solio’s Universal Hybrid Charger, which captures solar energy powerful enough to charge all of your handheld electronic products, from cell phones and iPods to digital cameras and game players. Dad might also like Solio’s recycled rubber Tread cases for his Solio products, iPod or laptop.

2. Green Grooming

Dad might not spend as much time in the shower as Mom, but he would still benefit from the use of organic soaps and natural shaving products. Traditional gels and foams are full of all sorts of dodgy and toxic chemicals, so look for organic shaving creams and aftershaves such as Jason organic products and Burt's Bees natural skincare line.

3. Break Out the 'Cue

Help Dad jumpstart the summer barbecuing season with the latest in green grilling gear. When buying supplies, steer clear of conventional charcoal and wood fuels, which contribute to deforestation and release tiny soot particles into the air. Sustainable, clean-burning alternatives include charcoal made from untreated scrap wood and coconut shell charcoal. Instead of ozone-depleting lighter fluids, opt for an electric barbecue starter or chimney starter. But the present that will really light up Dad’s day is one of the solar-powered barbecues that just hit market. Try The Solar-Grill from Tammock Trading or El Solito’s Parabolic Solar Barbecue.

4. Efficiency Rules

Dad will be thrilled if you buy him a TV with an ENERGY STAR logo, and he’ll be even more jazzed when he realizes how much he’ll be saving on electricity costs. The TVs that use the least amount of electricity are smaller LCD TVs, and the biggest energy-consuming culprits are the 50-inch plus plasma sets. Be sure to check the standby power ratings, as many televisions still soak up electricity in their off mode.

5. A Toast to Organic (and Dad)

This year, make your Father’s Day toast with organic beer or wine. Made without the application of toxic insecticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers, these natural brews and vintages protect the environment and your health. There are a growing number of offerings to choose from, available from local microbreweries as well as large-scale producers. Now that’s a reason to pop open a bottle and celebrate.