GoGo Green Garden | www.gogogreengarden.com

Urban Garden Share | www.urbangardenshare.org

Description

I build, plant & tend edible gardens for people in Seattle. Urban Garden Share is a listing site that matches gardeners to garden space via online profiles.

Green Steps Taken

Eating locally, running a green business, reduce-reuse-recycle, making conscious choices, being a smart consumer, voting with my dollar.

Surprising Successes

I am happy to be a go-to person for news and trends on gardening and home preserving.

Having Trouble With

Administrative duties – I’m so bad at them!

Giving Back

I donate garden consults and work to non profits that work to support the green movement in some capacity. The vast majority of the goods I purchase are sustainable/local.

Wallingford Botanicals | wallingfordbotanicals.com

Description

Wallingford Botanicals was founded in 2007 by a local Seattle mother who was passionate about creating organic and natural bath, body and home-keeping items to keep her family and friends safe from toxic chemicals and fumes.

Using proven home remedies and modern techniques to form distinctly refined, effective skincare and home-keeping items the products are blended with organic and natural ingredients to ensure the finest results. Each recipe is thoroughly tested in their Team members’ home kitchens and are crafted in small batches to ensure the highest quality. Through personal experience the Team at Wallingford Botanicals understands the necessity of balancing purity and remedy. All products are elegantly packaged, simple in content but authentic and highly-effective. The net result is pure satisfaction and enjoyment for the discerning modern woman.

Wallingford Botanicals’ business commitment is to ensure that in our every deliberation, we consider Mother Nature. We are committed to supporting our local region by sourcing as much as 95% of our raw ingredients and packaging within the Pacific Northwest. We offer a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our products because we are confident our customers will be as delighted with our products as our friends and families are.

Green Steps Taken

The office: Wally workers will be conducting most of their R/D in home offices in an effort to reduce gas consumption. We have partnered with an eco-friendly cosmetic laboratory located in the Pacific Northwest whose practices and environmental beliefs are aligned with ours. Additionally, we hope to have our fulfillment entirely electronic in an effort to minimize paperwork. Our home offices are Green-conscious with recycling posts, compost pales as well as energy efficient efforts.
The Product: All of our products will be free of toxic-Parabens, Synthetic Fragrances and Dyes. The Packaging: Only recycled packaging will be considered as well as re-usable containers.

Surprising Successes

These are yet to be discovered.

Having Trouble With

We are looking for facilities that would donate their space for monthly dinners to low-income families. Additionally we are looking for individuals who would like to volunteer their skills to teach the parents and children at these dinners (subjects are tbd). If you are interested, please email skimbrough@wbotanicals.com.

Giving Back

We are members of the Wallingford Chamber of Commerce, and Community Kitchen and are in the process of becoming members of 1% For The Planet.

Eco Diva: Ethical Luxury | theEcoDiva.blogspot.com

Description

I am a freelance writer on all thing sustainable, healthy and luxurious in the realm of eco fashion, organic beauty, and a beautiful green lifestyle. I currently write for my own blog, theecodiva.blogspot.com, am a guest blogger for PlanetPinknGreen.com, and am a featured writer for GreenLiving.Suite101.com.

Steps Taken

Personally, I have completely changed the way I shop. When it comes to groceries, I shop bulk, bring my own bags and have really re-discovered my passion for cooking at home.

In business, I write about, research and recommend amazing companies and individuals who are creating products in an ethical fashion. This means having an awareness of not only the quality and eco aspects of the products itself, but also taking time to consider the process in which it is created. This equals ethical luxury.

Surprising Successes

I have been thrilled to discover a true community of other women and men who are open to sharing information, open to connecting and exchanging ideas and most of all, I have been pleasantly surprised in seeing how much is being done to make things better in every corner of the world.

Having Trouble With

My constant gremlin is staying organized. I am a work at home mom to a magical toddler. Between my playtime with him, loving to spend time with my hunky hubby, and taking time for ME…the organizing tends to stay on the back burner a bit too long at times.

Giving Back

I shop local for almost all my personal needs. I have been writing a regular feature on creating your own beauty products at home. I work with the local moms group to set up clothing and toy swaps to help in reusing, reducing and recycling the wonderful STUFF we all have but have grown out of. I have not purchase a single winter jacket for my son since he was born. We always swap out the small stuff for the next set of sizes. Community swaps are an amazing way to meet other moms, connect with local community and cut spending.

Mother Nature’s Organics | www.MotherNaturesOrganics.com

Description

Fresh organic produce home (&business) delivery service.

Steps Taken

We buy local produce as much as possible, use earth freindly cleaning products, we recycle our bins, and wrapping products, we donate extra produce, the damage produce goes to a chicken farmer.

Currently Working On

We are working on developing a co-op drop off system where we can have one person or family in a neighborhood be the drop off point for the families in that neighborhood.

Surprising Successes

I was really excited when I discovered chickens love produce and by donating to the chickens we could reduce our waste to nothing.

Having Trouble With

I am really passionate about getting organic produce to lower income children.

Growing Your Business

I want to provide fresh convenient high quality fruits and vegetables to people.

Giving Back

We purchase fair trade (grow bananas) and as much local produce as possible. We donate to clothes for kids, and volunteers of america, and extra produce to needy familys and food banks. I volunteer when I can to help the homeless, and for an event called giving day.

PlanetaryApothecary.com (launches in Feb 09)

Description

I am writer/editor focusing on projects related to health and wellness. I am also a nutritionist and astrologer and do wellness/astrology consultations.

Currently Working On

My blog, PlanetaryApothecary.com, will launch in the winter while my first book, Planetary Apothecary, comes out in the Spring.

Having Trouble

Remembering that paper scraps and 1/2 written-on pieces of paper can be as inspiring creatively as fresh clean unused pages.

Childish Things | ChildishThingsSeattle.com

Description

Children’s resale store recycling gently used childrens clothing, shoes, toys, books and gear for ages 0-10.

Steps Taken

We just opened so we haven’t done much to become “more” anything quite yet. Of course the nature of the business is all about recycling. We do sell new products as well and try to focus on eco-friendly and/or local products primarily. We are still building out this part of our business.

Currently Working On

We are currently working on sourcing local and/or eco-friendly new products.

Surprising Successes

We were able to build out our 2300 sq. ft. store out with primarily used fixtures.

Growing Your Business

I believe there is already a large market of parents who purchase gently used items due to either being frugal and/or being conscious of the impact of new products on the environment.

Giving Back

We just opened so we really haven’t made much progress yet towards being involved with the community although it certainly is a goal.

LotusHaus™ | www.lotushaus.com

Joanna L. Dyckhoff

Description

LotusHaus™ is a Seattle-based boutique design studio that specializes in the design and marketing of Organic & Sustainable apparel + home products and services. Resulting from a desire to experience a healthy & meaningful organic lifestyle, this one woman operation engages in a holistic approach to the business of creativity.

LotusHaus™ also provides event design, green DJ entertainment, gift and invitation design, decor and floral arrangements in global, modern and green style.

Green Steps Taken:

I have a background in designing sustainable apparel with organic cotton and other alternative fibers, and together with my husband and his affinity for nature, we aspired to make choices that would help us live greener lifestyles, not just in our household, but also in our businesses. Before each new purchase of a product or service we research all of our options and search for the most sustainable choice. We drive a hybrid Prius, use an energy star rated printer, use 100% PCW Recycled Paper, we reduce, reuse and recycle everything that we can and we also participate in green power programs available from our local utility providers.

Surprising Successes:

I was part of the design team that developed the first organic cotton yoga wear to be sold in Sam’s Club. The line was well received and helped to introduce more organic cotton apparel into the Sam’s Club and Wal-Mart stores.

Growing My Business:

The most important thing about growing my business is to stay true to myself and my beliefs.

Giving Back:

I volunteer my time and talent to many local organizations that involve creativity and the urban youth.

Jessie Upp

Green Your Theme | www.GreenYourTheme.com

Description:

GreenYourTheme.com is an ongoing Virtual Trade Show of Green Event Suppliers.

Green Steps Taken:

I have established a partnership with an international distributor of promotional products and I have an eye for drawing out green solutions that align with my client’s brand.

Currently Working On:

I help event producers green their events with green solutions from a variety of suppliers, from green venues to green event favors.

Surprising Successes:

We have 100+ exhibitors, all featuring different shades of green for the event industry.

Having Trouble With:

Finding green event venues that are willing to promote their space as “green.”

Growing your Business:

We are building a network of green event experts and green advisory board.

Giving Back:

I purchase green when and where I can. I not only provide a foundation for others to promote green practices and solutions in the Event Industry, I teach these practices to my children. They now have an eye out for earth friendly solutions and practices!

Celebrate Green

The Green Year, LLC
www.celebrategreen.net

Description

The Green Year, LLC is a mother-daughter owned company with a simple goal: to green up the way Americans celebrate.

Green Steps Taken

We strive to walk the green walk in our personal and professional lives. Having said that, we’ll be the first to admit that we’re learning along the way.

Corey Colwell-Lipson

As a business, the most challenging aspect as been to limit the driving for meetings, errands and events. In addition to carpooling, we try to work around this by organizing our day so that the have-tos are done back-to-back.

Currently Working On

Our book, “Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family” debuted on October 1st, 2008.

We also provide speaking and consulation services to individuals, oranizations and businesses on how to make celebrating green simple, affordable and fun.

Corey is also the director of Green Halloween, which is licensed to a Seattle based non-profit called Treeswing.

Surprising Successes

How willing people are to not only think green, but to act green during their most important events of their lives (holidays, birthdays, baby showers, etc.)

Having Trouble With

The elimination of petrochemical-based plastic.

Growing Your Business

Like anyone involved in non-profit and/or environmental work, we are trying to work ourselves out of a job. If everyone began making green choices 365 days a year, there wouldn’t be a need for us; and we’d celebrate!

Giving Back

Green Halloween, the initiative we founded, is a non-profit movement rasing money for worth causes from California to Connecticut. Through sponsorship and our Featured Vendor Program, we’re raising thousands of dollars for organizations doing essential work in our communities. We’re also donating a percentage of our profits (from our book and website advertising) to selected non-profits such as Treeswing and Healthy Child, Healthy World.

Description

I work with Greenworks Real Estate and I am pursuing my MBA in Sustainable Business at Bainbridge Graduate Institute. It is my hope and dream that we, as a country, dismiss words like greed and profit for new works like community and creativity.

Green Steps Taken

I have been driving on biofuel since 2005. I currently collect restaruant oil and make it. I just moved into a condo with my partner to demonstrate community living in my life. I work at root Connection in Woodinville once a week in exchange for organic veggies. Yum! Where I use to be a world traveler, I am grown to enjoy traveling b/c I know what my carbon footprint is when I step on that plane. I try to limit trips to visit family and special events.

Surprising Successes

Eating organic foods are helping me lose weight!

Having Trouble With

I still love a good bottle of wine. The bottle embodies a terrible footprint, but I just can’t buy the box o wine yet. (progress is being made in the direction though!)

Revival Ink | www.RevivalInk.com

Twisted Tree - Gray

Description

Earth friendly apparel for men, women, and baby, hand-printed by a local Seattle designer.

Green Steps Taken

I use all earth friendly solvents from soybeans in my screen printing process, as well as a recirculating water unit for cleaning my screens. I used to print on vintage clothing, now I also print on bamboo and organic cotton fabrics. Since my workshop is in my basement, I have been making a lot of improvements to make my house and shop more energy efficient.

Blossom Wrap

Currently Working On

I am upgrading to a conveyor dryer, which is more energy efficient, and also switching to brand new water based inks that are 100% natural.

Having Trouble With

Making my house/workshop more energy efficient has turned into a very big project, but I am getting there.

Most Important About Growing Business

I plan on staying a pretty small, local business. I may hire an employee or 2 in the future, but I want to stay small because it will be easier for me to ensure my business makes responsible choices for the earth.

Giving Back

I donate clothing to charities on a regular basis, and I have been involved in tutoring Seattle University’s fashion club. I also like talking to other business owners about green options.

Marketing Manager at www.MCElectricVehicles.com

Description:

I am the Marketing Manager and one of the owners of MC Electric Vehicles, a Seattle based electric car dealership. Through my involvement with MCEV I have become MUCH more aware of my impact on the environment, I was thrust into the ‘world of green’ and now I’m very much enjoying it!

Green Steps Taken:

I think the biggest thing that I have done is to drive an electric car on nearly a daily basis (I’d love to say it’s my only car, but they don’t work for my commute just yet). I have become much more community minded; I try to make sure my purchases come from as close to home as possible, I am working on bringing my company into a much more community & sustainable orientated mindset as well- we are working on ways to support local groups involved in sustainability. I have even made sure our company uses cups made from veggies and plates made from sugar cane!

Surprising Successes:

I don’t know that this is the most surprising necessarily, but it’s my favorite for sure. I have started purchasing nearly all of my groceries through Spud.com, a delivery service that stocks organic and local food- and I LOVE IT! It is such an EASY way to support local businesses and! farmers, I can’t believe I hadn’t done this sooner.

Having Trouble With:

I’m not sure that there are really ‘methods’ that I’m having trouble with. I really want to continue to ‘makeover’ my life, my little world, into a more green and eco-friendly environment- but it takes time. I think my problem is that I want to go through and overhaul everything because I’m genuinely excited about it. BUT, I also know that part of this new mindset is not being wasteful, so until my energy draining light bulbs burn out, they will remain.

Giving Back:

I would love to become more involved in my community; I’m ashamed to say I do not volunteer right now, I’m hoping with the slow season coming up I will be able to so. I am in charge of marketing and web design for my business and as a part of that I created a community partners program- we work with other eco-friendly businesses to help support eachother. I am also working on ways to further support groups like the Sierra Club and Earth 911 through our new website and through educational materials in our showrooms.

Description:

I am a mom of 2 very fine and accomplished daughters both very involved in the arts and a greener way of life. I have been an RN for many years and would very much like to find another way to involve in my community, which is new to me.

Green Steps Taken:

Laundry is dried outside, I purchased more efficient washer/dryer, I have been green for more years than I can count. I don’t drive unless I need to. I am currently revising my shopping to eliminate unnecessary packaging.

Surprising Successes:

Air drying laundry it smells so good and feels cleaner.

Having Trouble With:

Giving up some brand name cleaners.

Giving Back:

Recycling clothes to goodwill, donations to favorite charities.

Debbie Gianelli, CFP®
Whole Family Financial Services
(Licensed with KMS Financial Services Inc.)
425-424-2222 | dg@wholefamilyfinancial.com | www.WholeFamilyFinancial.com

Description

Debbie Gianelli

Multigenerational financial planning and wealth management. Specializing in working with families who are concerned about the world they are leaving for future generations and therefore prefer socially responsible investing.

Green Steps Taken

Whole Family Financial Services is committed to educating clients and the public about socially responsible investing. We also reduce our use of paper by emailing our Newsletter, forms and documents whenever possible. We recycle and try to use eco-friendly office supplies. Clients are offered filtered water instead of bottled water. Best of all, we work from a home-based office and don’t commute!

Currently Working On

Workshop on socially responsible investing, Money Matters for Kids Class, Get your Financial House in Order Class

Surprising Successes

The Green Festival in Edmonds. The attendees were an awesome bunch of concerned folks!

Having Trouble With

Trying to make financial planning and investing interesting and approachable for people who are not knowledgeable, are intimidated or are just confused about what they should be doing.

Most Important About Growing Business

To make sure that the client is a good fit for my business and that I can meet or exceed his/her expectations.

Giving Back

Whole Family Financial Services! offers free educational classes on socially responsible investing. Supporter of Green Halloween. Local shopper and supporter of eco-friendly products.

Green Steps Taken:

I make & use reusable bags, we turn off the lights when we aren’t in a room, my in-laws know to bring a couple of extra sweatshirts in the winter – our house hovers around 58F for a few months… I am trying to teach my girls to take care of our! earth from their earliest years. We recycle everything we can. We get our produce from a CSA farm 4 miles from our house, as well as growing what we can in our small backyard garden… we share the extra with our neighbors. All of us use a Sigg water bottle every day rather than plastic. My girls take their lunch in a Laptop Lunchbox to cut down on waste, and to eat healthier food than the school offers (ugh!). We are trying!

Surprising Successes:

The grocery bags. I already had an online store selling handbags, but after having my personal grocery bags bought off of my shoulder a few times, I decided to make reusable grocery bags to sell – but they are cute, and don’t have a store logo emblazoned across them.

Having Trouble With:

Cutting down on water. My girls are… well, girls. They like to take long showers. Really long ones. We are working on this with each shower!

Giving Back:

We buy local as much as possible. I try to tell everyone around me what we all need to do… unfortunately much of it falls on deaf ears. I know some is getting through though – I watch my in-laws and note that they at least think about some things now! And they are using reusable grocery bags – cute ones!

Description:

I am a business student at the University of Washington. I am very dedicated to conserving the planet and hope to play a key role in the future of green businesses.

Green Steps Taken:

I have transformed my completely transformed my lifestyle toward being sustainable. While working for a Fortune 500 company-I led an effort to dramatically reduce the waste that our office produced.

Currently Working On:

My husband and I recently purchased a house, and we are currently trying to incorporate green technology into the materials that we use.

Giving Back:

I have always tried to spend a lot of time giving back to my community. I have recently joined Sustainable Ballard.

Celebrate Green

The Green Year, LLC
www.CelebrateGreen.net

Description:

Our business, The Green Year, is an umbrella for our intellectual property, currently, a book due out in October, “Celebrate Green! Creating Eco-Savvy Holidays, Celebrations and Traditions for the Whole Family,” as well as our consultancy. We work with individuals and businesses to green up their celebrations.

Corey and Lynn

Green Steps Taken:

We started out green and doing our best in this direction is a basic value. We sought out a green publisher, are keeping hard copy marketing materials to a minimum, support green, sustainable, eco-friendly, Fair Trade businesses. We’re giving a portion of the proceeds of our book to two non-profits,www.Treeswing.org and www.HealthChild.org.

Currently Working On:

At this moment, I’m working on PR for our book.

Having Trouble With:

The hardest thing is to find local suppliers who are price competitive. We are committed to buying everything locally and on a personal level, we’re not opposed to spending more, but as a business, especially in our current situation, we simply cannot afford it. We had hoped to have our book printed here but couldn’t find a printer who was close to competitive with the Canadian printer we chose (FSC certified and printing on recycled paper etc.)

Surprising Successes:

We’ve been able to find so many partners who are like minded and want to support us and what we’re doing.

Growing My Business:

Growing our business is fully dependent on partnerships, collaboration and interest from others. We know we have an incredible book that can really make a difference, but due to circumstances way beyond our control, we’ve had to take over the production from a publisher. This means most of our money has gone into printing the book, leaving little for marketing. So we are dependent on word of mouth and collaborative agreements to succeed.

Giving Back:

I mentioned earlier that a portion of the proceeds of our book is going to Treeswing, a Seattle non-profit that is doing tremendous work in the schools to support children. One of their new initiatives is to see that every child in a particular grade, receives a jump rope. Their focus is on getting kids active, up off the couch and into the world of nature. We also mention many local businesses in our book and will continue to support them on our website and blog. If we can somehow advertise what they sell around a holiday, we want to do it. And of course, we want to buy local whenever possible.

Anna Kelly Photography | www.annalephotography.com

Description:

Children and Family Lifestyle Photography, Wedding Photography, Event Photography, and Commercial Photography

Green Steps Taken:

Changed all the lights in the office to compact fluorescents, tried to find recycled photo paper –none out there, use recycled products for packaging end product to clients.

Currently Working On:

Currently working on finding a greener way to print images. Finding a printing service that is green.

Having Trouble With:

Using recycled photo paper in printing… Not available

Surprising Successes:

Being less wasteful with solutions and inks, etc when photo processing. All that is toxic waste. Went from darkroom (toxic stuff) to digital printing (less toxic, I think.)

Growing My Business:

Grow it responsibly, especially in photography, try to eliminate toxic solutions, etc.

Giving Back:

Donate my time and photography sessions to non-profit organizations that in turn better our community.

Akina Designs | www.akinadesigns.com

Description:

Earth-friendly landscape design, installation and maintenance – of both residential and commercial properties in the Greater Seattle Area.

Green Steps Taken:

Our commitment to using native plant material means plants grow in their natural setting among the elements they inherently crave in terms of their need for water, sun and natural nutrients. As such, we design to encourage a reduced need for supplemental watering with an emphasis on proper plant selection and placement. Furthermore, we foster a nutrient-rich environment through our choice in soil products and amendment techniques.
No one likes weeds and pests, including us. That’s why we’re committed to using eco-friendly alternatives to keep them at bay! Our landscape team is trained in integrated pest management techniques and natural weed suppression methods. Our strategy includes working from the soil up creating the healthiest environment possible for the landscape, not only so the plants flourish, but so the natural ecosystem thrives as well. If necessary, we use mulches or natural products to aid in weed suppression and/or to increase the beneficial insects.

Having Trouble With:

The environmental impact of driving large vehicles!

Growing My Business:

Continuing to have fun, build personalized relationships with customers and be profitable!

Giving Back:

Akina Designs supports several charities through volunteer work and donations – the Outdoors for All Foundation is our charity of choice.

Spun | www.ChooseSpun.com

Description:

Women’s Organic Cotton Apparel

Green Steps Taken:

Our clothing is made from 100% Certified Organic Cotton, in the USA and from low-impact fiber reactive dyes. We try to make deliveries to local boutique ourselves as to avoid all the back and forthness with the post office or UPS, etc. We reuse shipping boxes, packaging and use biobags (which are made from corn) instead of plastic garment bags which is the norm in the industry. We also use recycled paper clothing hangtags and hemp/cotton clothing labels. We also give one percent of annual sales to 1% for the planet, which helps us help the environment.

Currently Working On:

We are proud members of the Organic Trade Association and our application is pending approval at Co-op America.

Having Trouble With:

Not everyone is open to clothing made from organic cotton and it has been difficult trying to educate consumers one at a time.

Surprising Successes:

The fact that most of our customers (stores) appreciate our reused packaging and biobags.

Growing My Business:

To continue to keep quality high, fashion a must and prices low for our customers.

Giving Back:

YES! We contribute to local charities and support other mom business’s in the area (see northwestenterprisingmoms.com)

Fashion Ethic | fashionethic.com

Description:

Fashion Ethic is an online boutique specializing in “Fashionably Responsible” apparel and accessories from independent, eco-friendly, and socially conscious designers.

Green Steps Taken:

We were founded on the idea of creating a mainstream boutique experience were conscious consumerism and sustainable products are the norm, rather than the exception.

Currently Working On:

Sourcing fashionable and sustainable lines of apparel and accessories that are high quality but not high priced; growing product lines into childrens and mens; considering more promotions where we can raise money for good causes.

Having Trouble With:

Hard to find good eco-friendly labels! Not sure about the pros and cons over carbon-offset shipping practices – it seems to be a new recommendation every day. Also, ensuring that bamboo fabrics and fibers are harvested and processed in an ecologically-friendly way…this has been in the news, thanks to the conventional textile PR machine.

Surprising Successes:

Finding that the US Postal Service is one of the greenest shipping options! Hearing from customers who notice the “fresh smell” of their hand-dyed, organic clothing when they open the package.

Growing My Business:

That the customer loves the product and recognizes the value in organics, low-impact dyes, recycled or sustainable fibers, and sweatshop-free labor and that the company can maintain quality assurance as we bring on new designers and lines.

Giving Back:

I have always done a lot of volunteer work, from Big Brothers/Big Sisters to the Seattle chapter of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to events at my daughter’s schools. Fashion Ethic continues this involvement with different promotions and donations (local fundraising auctions, % of Sales to Myanmar relief, WWF, etc). Our buying guidelines call for only sustainable and sweatshop-free product purchases, and make it simple for customers to see what each garment represents. We employ interns from local fashion programs at SPU and AIS.

Description:

I offer eco-friendly skincare and health and wellness products.

Green Steps Taken:

My skincare products use recyclable packaging and does not include harmful ingredients in their products.

New Processes:

Currently Working On:

Having Trouble With:

Surprising Successes:

Finding Amy Woidtke.

Growing My Business:

Reaching an market which cares as much about their skin as they do about the environment and wants to work with a company with amazing ethical standards.

Giving Back:

I am joining Sostane and working on becoming more involved in the larger green community to support it and locally owned businesses on all levels.

Green Diamond Consulting | Better You, Better World | HelpMeGoGreen.org

Description:

I offer Eco Lifestyle Coaching via holistic green assessments for home dwellers, business leaders, community groups, and educators; mentoring; eco-house parties; sustainable life coaching; class/workshop facilitation; and eco-party planning.

Green Steps Taken:

The biggest contribution I make is teaching others how to become peaceful and sustainable choice-makers. Because I believe that it is vitally important to model what I teach, I consider who and what I am affecting each time I make a decision. Some of the positive choices I make include adapting a compassionate work ethic, biking or busing to meet with clients, using eco-office materials, giving sustainable door prizes, ordering brochures from a company who uses renewable energy, etc.

New Processes:

Not much as I completed a degree in environmental sustainability and applied much of what I learned when I started my business.

Currently Working On:

I work out of my home, and I would like my house to be powered by the sun.

Having Trouble With:

I have not found a local AND green printing company who makes business cards.

Growing My Business:

I would like more clients, especially those who are open to change and see my services as a way to benefit all life (self, other people, animals, and the natural world).

Giving Back:

I currently have two pro-bono accounts and strive to have one per month. I am a member of my local CoolMoms chapter and have been active in PhinneyGreenwood Climate Change Action Now! (CCAN!) for the last several years. I planned an eco-potluck for my neighbors last summer as I believe that building community is a huge part of being sustainable. I try to purchase as little as possible. When I do consume, I choose sustainable offerings that benefit people, animals, and the environment.

Surprising Successes:

People who are already well on their way to being green have hired me.

Country Meadow Ltd. | www.countrymeadowltd.com

Description:

Mandarin Bamboo

Country Meadow Ltd. manufactures and distributes our own line of skin care and spa products. Most of our products are based on natural ingredients such as shea butter, avocado butter, coconut oil, rice bran oil, plant extracts and various emollients and conditioners.

We offer luxury products using simple ingredients for a tranquil experience in your own home or spa setting.

Pearls of Sand

Country Meadow Ltd. products are environmentally and socially responsible. We use recycled content packaging whenever possible. All of our products are animal friendly! No animal or animal by-products are used nor is the final product tested on animals

Green Steps Taken:

Chai Tea and Fig

New Processes:

We had our product packaging redesigned so we are using less material.

currently working on?

Reducing our carbon footprint.

EcoKind Design | www.ecokinddesign.com

Description:

Before

After

Our homes are sanctuaries where we rejuvenate, entertain, share intimacy, raise our families, etc. Spaces that support, inspire and welcome us to do so are key elements in supporting us to live our best lives. It’s my honor to contribute to these experiences through my interior services.

Whether your style is mild, wild or in-between, eco-friendly interior styling can happen for you too!

Green Steps Taken:

I recycle everything possible, buy in bulk, buy less in non-recyclable packaging, condense errands to conserve fuel resources, print on recycled paper, use a laptop, buy recycled/sustainable when I can, use eco-friendly products. There is more, I’m sure.

Condensing errands is a big thing – getting oneself out of immediate gratification mode and waiting to do an errand, if possible, until I am going to be in that area of town. I also find myself when I am on errands checking within to see if there is something else I need to do while I am in that area.

Currently Working On:

Currently, I’m researching what is the best method of alternatively powered transportation for my business and eventually, I’ll be purchasing green power and carbon offsets.

Having Trouble With:

Surprising Successes:

Growing My Business:

Leaving a lengthy trail of satisfied clients who know a bit more about environmental products after having their spaces decorat! ed and are better networked with green businesses for services.

Giving Back:

I have plans to donate my services in the future and am currently researching how that is going to take form.

Description:

I am currently learning about graphic design by attending classes at the School of Visual Concepts and by working with Kaytlyn Sanders at Benefical Design. I have two environmental studies/science degrees from the University of Washington that have influenced my designs to be innovative and as environmentally friendly as possible.

Green Steps Taken:

I utilize natural light throughout the day, sleep my computer and monitor when not using it. I turn my tv and dvd player off at the power strip to keep them from drawing power even when they’re “off.” I buy local food whenever possible and walk to the grocery store with my reusable totes for the rest. My family is a member of the Helsing Junction CSA. Our house has three non-CFL light bulbs and we never use those bulbs! I try not to drive whenever possible and try to combine errands into one trip. I print on the back of old documents and papers before putting them into the recycle bin.

New Processes:

As an aspiring graphic designer, I find it hard to determine the most environmentally responsible ways to be a print designer. I love print design, but it tends to use more materials than digital design. I enjoy the challenge to minimize material usage and maximize re-usability in my designs.

Having Trouble with:

I’m having trouble with the car situation. Living in Lynnwood but having family all around the area and a dog that goes everywhere with me, I find it hard to use public transportation for more than just special occasions.

Surprising Successes:

Learning that I can be an environmentally friendly designer and that my environmental degrees will be more useful to me in the design profession than they ever were in the environmental profession.

Giving Back:

I am on the board for my Homeowners Association where I am currently proposing the use of solar power for the common areas in our Association. I have also started a campaign to recycle more and throw away less in our development.

Community Involvement:

I love to buy locally and will pop out of bed at 8:30 on the weekends to go to a Farmer’s Market. I enjoy buying local furniture and housewares rather than things from box stores.

Description:

• Corporate sell out—Working for the Man (Jewelry Chain Headquarters)
• Print and Web designer (Beneficial Design)

Green Steps Taken:

REDUCE. REUSE. RECYCLE.

• Use public transportation and bike instead of driving
• Carpool
• Recycle, give to a new home and donate items
• CFL light bulbs
• No air conditioning
• Borrow before buying
• Think twice before purchasing
• Purchasing sustainable and organic products
• Supporting our community by trying to buy locally

New Processes:

It was very hard for me to bring my own shopping bags with me now that I do not have a car. Before I could leave them in the back seat and whenever I stopped somewhere I could use them instead of taking a plastic bag.

I also forget to realize how easy it is to make a few daily changes. I refill a Nalgene instead of buying water bottles, I bring a coffee mug instead of drinking out of disposable cups. I turn the lights out when I leave the room. I think twice before printing.

Also, you forget to consider everything…the obvious things to practice sustainability is produce, energy and paper. But don’t forget cleaning products and other chemicals that can harm the earth. Most importantly I believe it is easy to forget our community by shopping locally.

Having Trouble with:

I think change is the hardest choice for businesses. It affects many instead of one, but by committing to change means you are making a bigger impact quicker. It seems like a hefty dollar every time you need to invest in a new practice, product or belief. In the long run you can help yourself and the world by being sustainable-conscious. You will save money in the end and you’ll feel good doing so.

Surprising Successes:

Saving on energy! Just look over your electric bill…you’ll be glad and have extra bucks in your pocket.

Promoting Green Outside the Home:

It is hard to preach to the choir or all people that have busy hectic lives. The best way for me to influence others is by my actions and testimonials.

Community Involvement:

• I donate monetarily and run races for good causes
• I buy local products and services: Mode Salon Seattle, farmers markets
• Fair trade is important too, you can find that easily when purchasing coffee
• I work where I’m passionate and that usually means we believe in the same ideals: Beneficial Design

Gluten-Free Girl | www.glutenfreegirl.com

Description:

Author, Copywriter, Gluten-Free Food Consultant

In a Pinch, Personal Assistance | www.inapinchpa.com

Description:

In A Pinch provides a wide range of services to assist you in your busy life. We know that you want to spend your free time doing things that you enjoy… things that enrich your life. We want our services to be as comprehensive as possible to allow you to spend your time doing what you want to do. No request is too big or too small, we’re here to get it done! We’ve been completing our client’s to-do lists since 2001.

Green Steps Taken:

New Processes:

Currently Working On:

Having Trouble With:

Growing My Business:

Giving Back:

Surprising Successes:

Tote2Go! | www.Tote2Go.com

Description:

Tote2Go! Double Shopper Set

Handmade reusable grocery shopping tote bags made from 100% recycled, repurposed and remnant fabrics sourced from local charitable organizations in Seattle, WA.

Green Steps Taken:

Using fabric that would otherwise be headed for the landfill, recycling and donating scrap fabrics to other crafters, being mindful about energy usage

(unplugging machines at the end of the day, energy efficient lights, rechargable batteries, etc), reducing use of disposable items, reducing overall fuel consumption by keeping driving trips to a minimum, purchasing pre-owned items whenever possible.

New Processes:

Tote2Go! Double Shoppers folded into their pockets

Making the decision to use recycled fabrics exclusively (as opposed to organic or newly manufactured fabrics) was a big commitment, but worth it.

Currently Working On:

All of the above!

Having Trouble With:

I’m looking for a way to effectively recycle my fabric scraps. I’ve heard there are companies that shred recycled fabrics to make insulation, but I have yet to find them! Any other fabric/fiber recycling ideas are welcome as well!

Growing My Business:

If I were to grow my business, I would want to acquire some working capital to be able to employ stay-at-home moms to help them work at home as well as funds to implement a marketing / distribution plan. I am also working on a more efficient way to source recycled / repurposed material.

Giving Back:

I organize a group of Seattle metropolitan based craft makers (etsyRAIN.com) which supports emerging artists. We produce our own craft shows, support local community organizations and encourage local buying practices. I personally donate products to fund-raising events whenever possible, purchase locally with a focus on sustainable products and investigate companies to help me make an informed decision about where my money is spent.

Surprising Successes:

Starting a business that is a part of the “green movement” has been a wonderful experience. I am encouraged by the positive response I have gotten from the public and feel empowered with the information I have learned so far about the every day impact of the choices we make as human beings. I am hopeful that we will all figure it out sooner than later…

Beneficial Design | www.beneficialdesign.com

Description:

beneficial design provides simple and effective web design for women entrepreneurs in Seattle, the Puget Sound and beyond. Inspired by your remarkable stories, we organize and refine your initial ideas to form a presence and identity that best reflects you. Your site will be easy, welcoming and uniquely crafted to showcase your profession.

Considering the earth every step of the way, beneficial design mentors the creative process for low environmental impact marketing materials. From migrating rarely-used printed letterhead into digital versions, or creating small one-page brochures using high post-consumer recycled paper and soy inks instead of more wasteful and expensive multi-page versions, we help you save money and the environment.

We use paperless invoicing and proofing, reduced our personal consumption and purchase green energy for our office. Would you like to know how to do the same for your business? We can also take a look at the way you run your business and see what improvements you can make in your day-to-day operations and how you can make your transactions more green. Beneficial for you, beneficial for all of us.

Intrigued? Contact beneficial design to share your project ideas. We see our free consulation as a way to get to know each other and see if we are a good fit for your projects.

Green Steps Taken:

All lightbulbs have been changed to CFLs, all business machines are unplugged when not in use, paperless invoicing and proofing, solar-powered web hosting for some websites, reusable shopping bags, very limited driving (telecommute), natural lighting throughout the day, email marketing (no printed mailings), library books, use 100% post consumer recycled paper (when we need to print), FSC certified paper for our business cards, and purchase green energy.

New Processes:

We had to reinvent how we we billed clients and sent contracts while still making our paperwork look professional. With Quickbooks we were able to implement a digital letterhead on all of our invoices and we use Adobe Acrobat to digitally sign our contracts.

Currently Working On:

We are in the process of transferring all of our websites to solar-powered hosting and it’s going to take longer than we thought.

Having Trouble With:

The process of moving all of our websites is tedious and we are having to do a lot of archiving in order to make the switch. It’s not as quick as we had hoped. Also, it’s been hard to cut down on computer time and electricity usage and installing solar panels are not in our budget right now.

Growing My Business:

Right now Beneficial Design is at a healthy size and we have no plans on expanding. Working small and personalized give our clients the attention they need. We are looking at seeing how we can network with other women in business and how we can collaborate.

Giving Back:

First and foremost, we guide our clients to make the most eco-conscious decisions with their own projects. Changing the way a project is typically put together into one that is more sustainably made is how we can participate in making a difference bigger than ourselves. We volunteer for the local chapter of Dress for Success in helping them with their website and postcard design. We employ local candidates who telecommute from home. We also donate to Women for Women International.

Surprising Successes:

I am surprised on the amount of time and money I have saved on paperless billing (no stamps, no runs to the post office, no time spent printing and wasted paper) and checking out books from the library. It’s freed up my budget to focus more on green investments.