"Green" on the go...

Thanks to Marcey, I have an eco-friendly commuter mug that I sip my delicious Yogi green tea from. I haven't had coffee in three months and I don't miss it. Gotta love it!

From Brentwood to Manhattan Beach

I was on my way to Manhattan Beach from Brentwood when I noticed these newly placed trash bins on Barrington Avenue towards Sunset Blvd. I was pleasantly surprised to see a recycling bin. You have no idea. Then, as Jolene and I were leaving the Shade Hotel in Manhattan Beach after having lunch I saw the same style type of recycling bins in Manhattan Beach. Amazing!

"Green" Patrol

I woke up this morning and was too lazy to rinse my plastic container out and recycle it! Shame on me! So, my wonderful roommate, Amber, pulled it out of the trash and recycled it. She gave me a "Green" ticket. The fine was to buy her a bottle of wine. I will never do that again.

National Geographic Contest

I submitted my "Green" idea to the Green Effect Contest for National Geographic. Rate it NOW at http://greeneffect.nationalgeographic.com

Here is what I submitted:
As a hairstylist working in Santa Monica at Doves Studio, I have observed the need to create a local composite site for hair clippings to be collected as a way to “green” my community. Hair clippings are used to create hair mesh mats, and since hair naturally absorbs oil, this the most organic way tool for soaking up oil spills. Current methods, such as chemical dispersants, can actually be more harmful than the spill itself. A local composite site is necessary as the only company that facilitates such work is Matter of Trust, which is located in San Francisco.

Funds would be used to open a facility that would support a natural surplus program. I would partner with Sustainable Works, a non-profit organization promoting sustainable practices in urban environments, to develop and implement a site similar to Matter of Trust in Santa Monica. Over 100 salons exist in Santa Monica and this site will make it convenient for them to become ”greener.” Local salons would have a place to donate hair and we could extend the awareness to local cities such as Malibu, Venice and Marina Del Rey.

Santa Monica is already focused on reducing the city’s carbon footprint, making this a great addition to city standards. This effort could also promote other business sectors to be environmentally responsible in their operations. As the only salon in the Business Greening Program, Doves Studio is a leader committed to greening our community and will use these funds to expand these efforts.

ECO- Fashionista of the Month

During one of my photo shoots I had the opportunity to see LINDA LOUDERMILK'S clothing line up close and personal. The picture above was one of my favorite dresses. Her clothes incorporate eco materials like bamboo, soy and self-sustaining plants. She also supports organizations with clean water intiatives. One of her clothing lines gives back to the YEW Foundation. Check her out at http://www.lindaloudermilk.com/

Santa Monica Beach Cleanup

It's about that time again. The Doves Studio is having their second beach cleanup on June, 14th at 5pm and would love for you to join us! Visit nleal.blogspot for more information or call the Doves Studio at 310.399.7654.

B.Y.O.C to the Farmer's Market

B.Y.O.C. translation: Bring Your Own Container

Ok, so this might be a little over-the-top. Or maybe not? I'm really trying to REDUCE the amount of stuff I throw away, so I bring my own containers from home to the farmers market. Makes complete sense to me. I no longer take a plastic bag for my greens. I bring my own container for my berries and tomatoes. The best part part is walking down to my local farmers market and supporting the local farmers. It's also the best place to pick up fresh, beautiful and affordable flowers!