The importance of using eco-friendly products for your home and garden

Everyone is affected by the problems of climatic change and diminishing resources each one has to face up to the challenge of these problems. Media references to concerns over environmental damage are, increasingly, becoming more positive. There are sustainable consumer choices for every aspect of modern living, whether it be organic food, waste disposal or sources of renewable energy. Being "green" involves positive choices, purchasing products which are better for us and the planet.

SOLAR GARDEN LIGHTING

Solar lighting is an eco-friendly solution to illuminating the evening and night-time garden. Garden lighting has become increasingly popular, illuminating pathways and highlighting features. Solar light development has greatly eased this task. Installation of such lights is simple, requiring no wiring and virtually no maintenance. They convert sunlight to electricity, via solar photovoltaic panels, which charge the lights` batteries. The majority of solar lights use light-emitting diodes, which are bright enough, efficient and durable. Fluorescent lights are brighter but require more energy, and thus more PV panels. Concerns have been expressed regarding the energy expended in manufacturing solar lights, versus the energy they capture. However, their "carbon footprint" is evidently far smaller than electric lights. It seems likely that improved technology will make solar lighting even more energy-efficient. Already, solar panel development has lead to lights that do not require direct sunlight, and will work adequately in dull weather.

CHEMICAL FREE GARDENING

Unfortunately, gardeners have, predominantly for convenience, used chemical-based pesticides and herbicides. However, "organic" methods are more effective (and cheaper) ensuring healthy soil, and the preservation of beneficial organisms.

Pest Control
Organic pest control involves identifying which pests attack particular plants. This will enable the development of a specific pest control plan. Preventing pests, in some cases, may just require planting a complementary species nearby. For example, planting daisies and mint attracts insects that kill predatory pests. When possible, choose native plant species, as their "immune systems" will be more intolerant to common local pests than exotic plants. Additionally, purchase disease resistant strains of plants. Healthy soil can be maintained with natural additives, like compost and mulch. Valuable nutrients can be added by tilling old plants back into the soil. Rotate crops annually.

Natural Pesticides
A cornucopia of information on chemical-free pest control remedies is available from gardening forums and blogs on the Internet. It is surprising how cheaply and easily some pests can be controlled. For example, ants hate cucumber, and Thai lemon grass is a mosquito repellent. Organic techniques protect the environment by limiting introduction of chemicals. With these simple, easy techniques for preventing pest problems, your garden will remain healthy and fruitful.

Controlling Weeds
Unfortunately, there is no organic weed killer. The only method for controlling weeds is to remove them and take preventative measures. These tips will help eradicate most weeds:
1. Dig the entire plot, removing as many weeds and roots as possible.
2. If digging early in the season, use light deprivation by placing a light blocking tarp over the plot.
3. Remove any new weeds as soon as possible.
4. Never let weeds flower.

Mulching
Mulching can help to prevent weed growth by blocking light and killing off weed seedlings.
Black Plastic: is by far the most effective weed prevention method. Cover the entire area with plastic and cut slits where you will be planting.
Rolled paper: can be used in the same way as plastic. It can be dug into the soil after harvesting.
Bark: is well suited for use in ornamental gardens where plastic or paper would be too unattractive.

HOUSEHOLD "GREEN" GOODS

Washing without Chemicals
There is now a vast array of chemical-free washing products available, for washing from head to toe. These include luxurious bath / shower products, body lotions and moisturisers. Other "natural" toiletries include pure, gentle vegetable soap, aluminium-free deodorant, fluoride-free toothpaste and organic tampons.

Washing Clothes
An eco-friendly way to wash clothes is "soap nuts" originating in Nepal and India. They contain the seedpods of the soap nut tree. The Indian soap nut tree grows from Afghanistan and China to Florida, Africa and the Caribbean. The skin of the berry (the soapod) contains saponin which the active cleaning ingredient. The saponin is released on contact with water producing dermatologically sound lathering and cleansing.

In addition to cleaning and personal care products, there is now a huge range of eco-friendly household products, including:

• Furniture form recycled wood
• Bedding, towels and other furnishings
• Glassware from recycled glass
• Clothing made from sustainable fabrics e.g. organic cotton, hemp, wool, recycled polyester, etc.