Summer Eco-tainment
Summer is upon us and that means we are gearing up to enjoy the beautiful outdoors. Kim Carlson, eco-expert business owner, author and more founder of EarthSmart Certified Sustainable Product Standard, is offering simple ways to enjoy the warm weather while carrying out some green practices. Whether youre looking to get in shape, plan a day for the family or a romantic night out, Carlson gives you a variety of eco-tainment activities.
Fitness:
• Go Hiking -It's good exercise for the bod and getting out in nature is a terrific stress reliever. As long as you follow the rule of "leave no trace." The only footprint you'll leave behind is a harmless one.
• Take a Bike Ride -Bicycling has obvious leg and cardio benefits but it is also a petro and emissions free way to see some new sights. Remember to wear a helmet and follow traffic rules.
• Green Golf -Traditional golf courses are maintained with toxic chemicals, polluting mowers and use lots of water to keep the grass green. Some courses are switching to more environmentally preferable techniques including narrower fairways with less turf and less toxic weed and feed. Opt for those! Check out this link for eco-friendly golf courses across the U.S. http://www.golfandenvironment.org/ecofriendlygolf.htm
• Take the Plunge -A good old fashioned swim builds up your endurance and is less jolting to your body than running. Find a salt water swimming pool or go to the beach for a chlorine free afternoon but remember the chemical free sun block. Try Aubrey Organics Natural Sun
• Grow Your Own - Organic gardening will bring you back to nature by giving you some mild exercise by bending, kneeling and digging. It is also a non-toxic way to raise your own veggies, herbs and flowers.
Family and Kid-Friendly:
• Go to the Park - Take a child to the city, state or national park near you. It is not only free, but a great nature teaching opportunity.
• Jump Rope, Play Hopscotch or Red Rover - Oldies but goodies for entertaining the troops and helping them get some outdoor exercise.
• Kick Ball - It's more than a movie and easier than baseball. Kids of all ages (yes, even middle aged kids) can play and it's low impact.
• Sponsor a Scavenger Hunt - Make it a green hunt by hiding earth-friendly prizes. It will help teach kids about the fun of being outside and give them an idea of what green means.
Dating and Romance:
• Enjoy Music or Movies in the Park - There is nothing more romantic than being outdoors on a warm summer evening with your other. Remember the non-toxic bug spray.
• Green Drinks - Visit a rooftop bar that serves organic cocktails - you may have less of a hang-over with all the toxins removed!
• Go Local - Go to a restaurant that serves locally raised ingredients and reduce your carbon footprint further by walking, biking or taking transit to dinner.
• Organic Picnic Make an all organic lunch or dinner and eat it outside in the grass on an organic cotton throw. Don't forget to use to-go ware utensils, basket/reusable bag and cloth napkins!
This summer be eco-friendly with all your activities by trying one of Carlson eco-tainment tips. For more information on Kim Carlson or other green tips, please visit www.earthsmartconsumer.com or contact me with any questions.