To compile our list, we partnered with leading environmental website treehugger.com and evaluated goods across several categories. We chose winners for their exceptional design ingenuity and authentic commitment to responsible business practices.
Follow the links below to find great-looking, earth-friendly winners—decorator-worthy furniture, rockin' fashion, luxe linens & artisanal food (all expert-tested until the grass-fed cows came home & in no particular order).
our criteria
Products had to be made from materials that are rapidly renewable (such as fast-growing bamboo), responsibly grown (wood from a socially and environmentally managed forest, for example), reusable (can be recycled after use) and/or biodegradable (able to be safely returned to the soil). Bonus points were given for durability (well-built things that won't have to be replaced frequently). No off-gassing (materials and finishes that can pollute the air inside your home) was allowed. We embraced relativity (a Prius may be better than a fuel-gulping SUV, but it's still pretty dirty compared to a totally electric car or, for that matter, a bicycle) and gave gold stars for good manufacturing practices (such as wind-powered factories and fair labor conditions). And last but not least, we decided that vintage counts!
These manufacturers are turning out graceful, timeless pieces that are eco from fabric to filling.
All the sophistication, softness and sheen of the most chichi textiles, with none of the synthetics. Here, our picks from the best lines.
Three chic, good-for-the-earth ways to dress up your drywall. Gorgeous eco-friendly paints, pretty wallpaper, and earthy, rich plaster.
From innovative bamboo to old-school wool, these are the choicest natural fibers underfoot. Complete with warm colors and earth-friendly materials.
High-style building blocks with low environmental impact, plus regional options that cut down on gas-guzzling shipping.
From companies we admire, all the materials and styles we lust after, minus the toxic finishes and earth-damaging manufacturing.
Bye-bye, burlap tunics. The designers behind these cool lines are bringing good practices to great style.
Hitting the road doesn't have to mean hurting the planet. The best bicycles, hybrids, and more.
Luxe or cozy, off-the-grid or in-the-scene, we've got the great escape for you.
These exceptional products blend high-impact ingredients, unorthodox scents and thoughtful packaging?now that's a beautiful thing.
Worthy of a suite at the Ritz, these comforts are also perfecting the science of sleep.
Master the domestic arts with forward-thinking products and machines.
We'd prefer to shop at the local farmers market all the time, but when that's not an option, these sources offer the most flavorful ways to go organic.
