November 24th, 2008 · 1 Comment

Soy candles – symbolically burn your addiction to foreign oil

You may not realize that paraffin candles are derived from petroleum. Soy candles, however, are made from soybeans, making them more sustainable. What’s more, they don’t blow as much soot as the old type and they burn longer. We found some elegant, undyed soy candles at World Market in white tea, linen, lavender, gardenia and bergamot scents. A home test confirms, they’re clean burning and smell great. (Cost: $12.99)

Looking for other versions? The Internet is full of online candle sellers, most of them selling the old style paraffin variety. To find local sellers of soy candles, try this locator called Find Soy Candles, a clever idea by the Iowa Soybean Association to expand the awareness of this biodegradable product.

Cookware – authentic earthen pieces from LaChambra

These cookware pieces are made in Colombia out of clay using ancient techniques. Why are they green? They don’t use glazes or lead and no metal has to be manufactured. These wood-fired crocks also benefit Colombian artisans. They’re sold by Gaiam under fair trade agreements ($36 for baking dish; $58 for a covered casserole). LaVida Verde Inc. is another source for Colombian cookware, with many varieties of these bowls and extensive information and photos showing how they’re made. Yes, they have to be shipped to the states, but considering their humble origins, their social-eco footprint is relatively small.

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