The Greenest Gift Ideas for 2008 from Grassroots Environmental Products

Pioneer Green Retailer Encourages Holiday based on Eco-Mindfulness

Green — so says popular culture — is the new black. This year has been an exciting year for the planet, as taking care of the earth has become a priority for today’s consumers.

With the dramatic rise in eco products across all markets, what’s followed has been a slew of unfortunate ‘greenwashing’. This holiday season, Grassroots Environmental Products, the go-to eco experts for nearly 15 years, has put together an earth-friendly gift guide to help consumers navigate through an increasingly complex green marketplace by taking out the guesswork. All our products are rigorously researched and guaranteed to be safe for the

family, home and environment.

With hundreds of products to choose from, this annual gift guide offers a sampling for everyone on your list,

regardless of their particular shade of green. Rather than madly careening around the malls and plazas, consumers across North America can shop from the comfort of home at www.GrassrootsStore.com.

So as the year draws to a close and we are all thinking about how to express our fond-

ness and gratitude for the ones we love, Grassroots is here

to help us match our senti-ments with meaningful and sustainable gift ideas – all with a great story. The options are endless!

Your eco store since 1994

TOP GIFT IDEAS FOR THE

Green Techie

Portable LightAh, sunshine – our greatest renewable resource! A traditional mason jar is repurposed as a low-energy garden or night light. Place the watertight jar in sunlight to charge the solar cell battery. The stored energy is then used at night to power three LED lamps inside the jar. A perfect garden light or night light for a kids’ bedroom. $49.99 CDN.

Freeplay LanternLike the idea of 100,000 hours of ultra-bright, renewable light? This LED Lantern is the most dependable lantern on the market with no bulbs to burn out, nor disposable batteries to replace. The rechargeable battery means that there is no use of disposable batteries that are harmful to the environment. A quick 60-second wind provides up to two hours of light. With this lantern, you’ve got light anytime, anywhere. Available in green or yellow. $49.99 CDN.

Freeplay CompanionThe name of this compact gadget could not be better because it’s a great companion to have wherever you are! The Companion is a radio, flashlight and a cellphone charger. It has a solar panel and a crank so you’ll never run out of power. A 1-minute wind gives you 20 minutes of radio listening or 30 minutes of light. Ready when you need it! Make this your constant companion. $39.99 CDN.

TOP 5 GIFT IDEAS FOR

Home DécorMonkey Pod StoolFunky monkey! The modern design of this twisted stool is hand carved from monkey pod wood (sustainably harvested wood from Thailand, similar to bamboo). A very hard, durable wood that is surprisingly lightweight. Stunning as a side table, stool, or simply as a piece of art. Size 12”L x 12”W x 17.5”H. $190 CDN.

Recycled Plastic RugsWipe your shoes the eco way with this fair-trade woven rug made from 100% recycled plastic. Created from plastic bottles and other recyclable waste collected in Vietnam and spun into fibre for weaving. Available in two chic designs: Wave and Branch. Dimensions: 72” x 42”. $39.99 CDN.

Magazine RacksMagazines have never looked so well-displayed! Inspired by classic modern forms, these magazine racks are constructed from just two pieces of FSC wood (Forest Stewardship Coun-cil). Environmentally responsible forestry is just part of what makes this rack green – it requires no hardware (screws, bolts, glue, etc.) to assemble, allowing it to remain totally eco-friendly! Four modern styles. $70 CDN.

Wineplank Candle HolderDinner parties are about to get more interesting. A great con-versation piece, this candle holder is made from part of an old red wine cask from the Niagara Region. Fits tea lites or votive candles. Candlelight and wine take on a whole new meaning! Small $26; Large $32 CDN.

Hemp Table LinensChic: the new contemporary look of hemp! Adorn your table with these beautiful table linens made from 100% hemp (high quality 10oz hemp!). Available in three earthy tones: cranberry, sage, and natural. Napkins (two for $24.99 CDN), placemats (two for $29.99 CDN); and tablecloths (54”X54” – $45 CDN; 70”X90” – $85.99 CDN).

TOP GIFT IDEAS FOR

Eco Tots

Organic MonkeysWhat child, at some point, hasn’t dreamt of owning a monkey? This sweet monkey has an embroidered face and is firmly stuffed with organic cotton so there is no fluff to inhale! Made with the finest 100% organic Egyptian cotton. $29.99 CDN.

Earth-Friendly Infant Shoes Little Piggies went to market and found the eco-friendliest shoes on the planet! Every step that went into making these shoes are green, green, green! Made from hemp, organic cotton, recycled plastic bottles, latex elastic, 100% post-con-sumer paper pulp, and wool felt. Bonus: comes in a playful post-consumer box that looks like a truck! Sizing available from newborn to 18 months. Various colours. $29.99 CDN.

Organic Cotton Kids BeddingWhoever says the colour palette for organic cotton bedding is neutral and boring can prepare themselves for a wake-up call! This organic cotton bedding for children is bright, whimsi-cal and downright irresistible! Made in North America. Various prints. $60 – $240 CDN.

Eco Kids GameChildren will be challenged as they discover the fascinating facts about some of the world’s endangered animals! Fun, original and informative, this game is a terrific way to inspire children to learn more about our environment and how their actions can make a difference. Requires 2 or more players. Ages 3+. Game uses recycled materials and contains: 36 en-dangered animal cards (x2) and information cards with facts on each animal. The company gives back as part of 1% For the Planet. $30 CDN.

TOP 5 GIFT IDEAS FOR THE

Eco MamaEco Diaper BagNow here’s a planet-conscious diaper bag! Made out of recy-cled plastic bottles, every one of these diaper bags keeps ten 600ml plastic water bottles out of landfill. Teflon and PVC-free! Spacious and lightweight, this diaper bag is super-stylish and comfortable to wear. Comes with adjustable strap, change pad, see-thru wipe case, key clip, and multiple elastic-topped pockets. Each bag exterior comes in various colours and is silk-screened with a beautiful botanical print. $110 CDN.

Glass Baby BottlesParents are going old school with glass baby bottles to avoid the issue of leaching toxins (Bisphenol-A) from plastic bottles into their baby’s fragile bodies. Babies are especially vulner-able as the amount of toxins ingested is large compared to their body weight. Read a recent study about leaching Bisphenol-A at www.GrassrootsStore.com. Glass baby bottles available in two sizes: 4oz (120ml) $5.99 and 8oz (240ml) $6.99 CDN.

Eco Journal Every new mother wants to forever capture details of their own parenting experience as well as their baby’s. Scribe these moments into a journal that is made from 100% post-consum-er paper and uses only vegetable-based inks. Small (5’ x 7’) $8.99 CDN and Large (6’ x 9’) $16.99 CDN.

Simply Body ButterA must-have before, during and after pregnancy, this body butter is made with a blend of certified fair trade Shea and Cocoa Butter, Safflower Oil, and Vitamin E. A non-greasy, deeply penetrating moisturizer with a naturally occurring chocolatey scent! Mmmm! A lifesaver to have while nursing. Two sizes: 2oz $9.99 and 6oz $24.99 CDN.

Organic Cotton Ring SlingsThis Ring Sling is made from 100% certified organic cotton fabric with just a touch of padding in the shoulder and rails for added comfort. Fully adjustable, this sling is designed to cup the shoulder and spread naturally over the back, keep-ing baby secure and close to your center of gravity. Great for newborns, nursing moms, and heavy toddlers! Available in a selection of stylish colours and prints. $110 CDN.

TOP 5 GIFT IDEAS FOR

Stocking StuffersOrganic Fair-Trade ChocolateTake our word for it, this organic, fair trade chocolate can bring a tear of joy to any chocoholic! And it’s a feel good story all ‘round: you benefit because you get a high quality, healthy chocolate and cocoa farmers benefit because buying a fair trade product means you are also helping them sustain their crops and their business with more human dignity. The milk chocolate bars with rice puffs and dark chocolate bars with kamut puffs are simply divine! Other festive designs available in dark and milk chocolate. Priced from $2.99 – $9.99 CDN. Greenpeace CalendarIt’s something we may not rush out to buy for ourselves, but love it when we’re given one. Support the important work of Greenpeace by purchasing their 2009 calendar. Featuring oversized images of the drama and beauty of planet earth. $16.95 CDN.

Travel Mug Show some eco spunk by toting this indestructible French Press Double-Shot travel mug with you on your morning commute! Takes java-on-the-go to new heights with its hidden storage compartment in the base for additional coffee grounds or tea leaves. Features double-walled stainless steel (so no leaching!), scratch-resistant, baked-enamel finish. This mug will help keep disposable cups out of landfill. Hot new black and chrome mug available. Other colours include pink, black, and wasabi. $30 CDN.

Daily Planners Start the year off right with an indispensable agenda made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper. Uses harmless vegetable-based inks. An assortment of geometric and natural prints. $16.99 CDN.

Green DVDsExpand your environmental education with a documentary focused on various topics affecting the health of our planet, such as Garbage Warrior, A Crude Awakening, Manufactured Landscapes, The Refugees of the Blue Planet, etc. Every stocking should be stuffed with at least one! Prices from $9.99 – $35.99 CDN.

TOP GIFT IDEAS FOR

Eco Pets

Hemp Leash & CollarWe all know how dogs love to showcase their personality. This hemp leash and star-studded hemp collar will help them get their “bitch on” while minding the earth at the same time. Comfortable for your four-legged friend. Strong hemp fibres ensure a long life. Leash $25 – $30; Collar $20 – $25 CDN.

Organic Pet Clothing Dogs will no longer walk, but rather strut their stuff while wear-ing these designer dog clothes made out of 100% certified organic cotton. Stylish, soft and colourful, these cool doggie threads are good for your pet and safe for the environment. Available in pink and blue. $29.99 CDN.

TOP GIFT IDEAS FOR THE

Eco Man

Simply Shaving Kit Long gone are the days of Aqua Velva. For a satisfying, natural shaving experience, lather with organic peppermint soap, which is a natural astringent that cools the skin and reduces razor burn. This kit also includes a shaving brush made from natural wood and bristles. Packaged in an unbleached muslin bag. $15 CDN.

Earth-friendly ShoesWalk toward greener pastures in these shoes that are truly environmentally friendly! These men’s shoes are made with hemp or cotton uppers, bamboo linings, removable natural latex insoles, recycled car tire outsoles, recycled pop bottle elastics, water-based glues, and 100% post-consumer paper pulp foot forms. Various styles and sizes. From $90 – $150 CDN.

Organic Cotton Underwear Treat the man in your life to a pair of 100% organic cotton knit boxers. These undies are incredibly soft and well constructed with a short fly and covered elastic. Men love that the “tag” is screen printed onto the fabric, so no itchy tag feeling! Available in natural and black. $24.99 CDN.

Eco WalletSay goodbye to the stodgy outdated leather wallet…and hello to this eco wallet made from 100% recycled/recyclable materi-als. Compact, colourful, and water resistant, this wallet holds everything you need: five cards, a few bills, and even has a detachable money clip if you need to go super slim. Bonus feature: it actually fits in your front pocket. Available in orange, black, red, purple and clear. $15 CDN.

TOP 5 GIFT IDEAS FOR

Holiday EntertainingRecycled Scrap Metal OrnamentsGreenies simply can’t resist one of these totally eco orna-ments! Welcome holiday revellers with a recycled ornament hung on the front door or the tree this holiday season. Made completely out of scrap metal and salvaged materials. Two available styles: Star and Pine Tree. Approximately 7”. Makes a great hosting gift! $9.99 CDN.

Stainless Steel ContainersWe all know about the mountain of leftovers that come with holiday entertaining. Pack next-day edibles into a non-plastic alternative — stainless steel containers — to avoid leaching toxins into our food and drink. Makes for easy reheating the next day and works wonderfully as a convenient lunch box. Stackable, water-tight, and regular containers available. Dishwasher and toaster oven safe. Prices range from $10 – $27.99 CDN.

Guilt-free Gift WrapLighten your holiday footprint by using this gift wrap made of hemp blended with 100% post-consumer recycled paper and printed with vegetable-based inks. Each oversized sheet is 22” x 34” with a smooth satin finish. Various holiday designs available. $6.95 – $7.50 CDN.

Bamboo CollectionFood seems much more festive when served in one of these colourful bamboo lacquerware pieces. Hand-coiled, shaped and finished with food-safe natural lacquer, this bamboo collection is a must-have for entertaining during the holidays or for everyday! One of the earth’s fastest growing plants, bamboo is a highly renewable material, reducing the pressure on our forests. Suitable for both hot and cold foods. Various colours. Available in serving and tableware sizes. Priced from $17.99 – $65.99 CDN.

Vintage Fabric Coasters Set your vegan eggnog down on these charming coasters made with repurposed vintage fabrics. Each set of coasters is handmade and one-of-a-kind. Makes a great hostess gift or anytime gift! Machine washable. Available in set of two ($9.99) or four ($16.99) CDN.

TOP GIFT IDEAS TO

Pamper Thyself

Cervical Neck Pillow These cervical neck pillows are not just for airplanes! Designed to be used anytime relaxation and therapeutic support is needed, these pillows are made from 100% natural buck-wheat, which allows air to circulate freely through the pillow. This results in a thermodynamic sleeping surface — warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Features a removable, washable cover. $44.99 CDN.

Organic Cotton Bath RobeGreat for lounging or after the bath, this heavenly bath robe is made from 100% organic cotton. The lightweight waffle-weave fabric makes it easy to wear and provides a flattering fit. One word of caution: you will want to hang out in your bath robe all day! Pre-shrunk and machine washable. Available in natural colour. $69.99 CDN.

Bath Ball FilterDid you know that you absorb more chlorine from your bath and shower than your drinking water? If you are filtering your drinking water to get the chlorine out, you should be filtering your shower and bath water as well. This bath ball, which is compact and hangs from your tub spout, is for people who want a quick, easy way to fill their bath with clean, filtered water. Easy refill replacement filters available. $79.99 CDN.

Tip-to-Toe Organic Home Spa Gift BasketWho couldn’t use some TLC after the hustle and bustle of the holiday season? Treat someone you love to this ultra-eco gift basket of goodies for the body! Everything you put on your skin gets absorbed into your body, so consider personal care products that are all-natural, certified organic and/or wildcraft-ed. Gift basket includes: Sugar Body Polish, Organic Soap, Body Butter, and an organic cotton face cloth. $49.99 CDN.

Grassroots Environmental Products was built on the foundation of environ-mental education and stewardship in 1994. With two stores, an e-commerce website, wholesale and commercial sales divisions, and environmental con-sulting services, Grassroots has grown to become Canada’s largest green lifestyle retailer. Over the past 14 years, Grassroots has been recognized with numerous environmental awards as a green business that truly walks the talk. To learn more about the many green activities, community events and eco initiatives that Grassroots is involved in, visit www.GrassrootsStore.com

Rob Grand, the owner of Grassroots Environmental Products, has amassed over 20 years of non-profit environmental work in various capacities. Regularly called upon by local and national media to lend insight and credibility on a broad spectrum of environmental topics, Rob has become a leading advocate, spokesperson, and educator on green lifestyle products and issues.

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Media interested in scheduling an interview, obtaining product for review or further product information, please contact:

Michelle ColinPublic Relations ManagerGrassroots Environmental Productswww.GrassrootsStore.commedia@grassrootsstore.com1.888.633.5833 ext. 201

About Grassroots

372 Danforth AvenueToronto, Ontario M4K 1N8(416) 466-2841

408 Bloor Street WestToronto, Ontario M5S 1X5(416) 944-1993

www.GrassrootsStore.com1-888-633-5833

“In the long term, the economy and the environment

are the same thing. If it’s unenvironmental, it is uneconomical.

That’s the rule of nature.”—Mollie Beattie

This is an Eco Gift Guide (literally!)We produced this guide in the most eco-responsible way possible using 100% post-consumer recycled paper (available at Grassroots!), 100% recycled CD sleeves and envelopes, and a pouch of handker-chiefs made from certified organic cotton. Grassroots is bullfrog- poweredTM with 100% green electricity and also offsets its carbon emissions through Zerofootprint on all deliveries, including this one!

Printed by the Eva’s Phoenix Print Shop — an environmentally responsible graphics training facility and commercial print shop that connects at-risk youth with long-term solutions. The Print Shop is a 2007 Toronto Community Foundation Vital Ideas Award Winner. Your printing supports youth: www.evasinitiatives.com.