Earth Day, which is celebrated annually on April 22nd, is a day to reflect on all of the ways that we can make a difference on improving our environment. Environmental charities like Earth Day Canada foster environmental respect and actions that lessen the impact on our earth. Going green and becoming conscious of our “carbon footprint” takes effort and starts with a general awareness. Here are some quick ways that you can start making a difference:

1. Conserve Energy (i.e. unplug appliances that are not in use, dry clothes on a drying rack/clothesline, reduce the temperature of your shower by 1 degree) 
2. Save Water (i.e. take shorter showers, turn the tap off while brushing your teeth) 
3. Stop using Bottled Water (i.e. use a water filter at home, bring a reusable water bottle with you)
4. Use Natural Products. Using products made from natural ingredients is not only good for you but it’s also good for our planet. (see below) 
5. Eat Local or Organic. (I know that I’ll be raiding my parents garden this Summer!) 
6. Use Reusable Shopping Bags

Here’s a quick look at some eco-friendly household and beauty products that are environmentally conscious and contain natural ingredients:

Epic Blend Premium Lip Balm – $3.49 CAD (or $12 CAD for a 4 pack)

> Incredibly silky lip balms made from all-natural ingredients
> Gluten-free, cruelty-free & vegan
> Come in 10 mouth watering flavours including fan favourites Pineapple Mint, Citrus Kick, Coconut & Wild Berry. An unflavoured option is also available on their website.  

Pelle Beauty Facial Oils – $29.00 – $68.00 CAD 

> A natural & effective way to moisturize your face 
> Highly concentrated formula does not contain any fillers, water, dyes, preservatives or synthetic fragrances
> Made only from pure plant based ingredients & essential oils 
> For more information or to see other natural products click here.

TOM’s of Maine Natural Toothpaste & Deodorant – $4.00 – $5.00 CAD

> All of Tom’s toothpastes are made without any artificial dyes, sweeteners or flavours. Deodorants contain no artificial fragrances or preservatives either!
> The Simply White® toothpaste uses naturally sourced silicas for clinically proven whitening (no bleaching chemicals!) 
> Wicked Cool!™ fluoride toothpaste (for ages 8+) features a mild mint flavour for kids who have outgrown fruit or bubblegum flavours but don’t like the strong mint flavours in most adult toothpastes. Helps prevent cavities, strengthens enamel and freshens breath. 
> Children’s Toothpaste uses calcium and silica to gently clean while real fruit flavour appeals to children’s taste 
> The Long-Lasting Deodorants provide 24h protection for men & women and are all aluminum-free. They contain natural fragrances and odor-fighting botanical hops as well as the mineral zinc to help keep you feeling fresh throughout the day. 

Lavanila Laboratories “The Healthy Deodorant” – $23 CAD
> Another great deodorant option but much more expensive 
> 100% natural, freshly scented and long-lasting
> Contains soothing essential oils; available at Sephora.


Weleda Gentle Cleansing Milk – $24 CAD

> Creamy cleansing milk that gently removes dirt and skin impurities 
> Non-foaming action leaves your skin squeaky clean and smelling like citrus
> Contains iodynamic iris root extract (known for its moisture-retaining & regulating properties), Organic Jojoba seed oil (preserves skin’s natural moisture & acts as an emollient) and Witch Hazel (naturally light astringent renowned for its skin-strengthening effects) 
> For more details or to see their extensive product range, click here.

The Body Shop Nutriganics™Smoothing Eye Cream – $20 CAD 

> Reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles with this lightweight eye cream treatment that smoothes and softens the delicate skin around the eye area & helps improve skin tone and texture.
> Uses Community Trade organic babassu oil from Brazil, organic red grape from France, plantain and elderflower from Switzerland, organic buddleja and thyme from Switzerland, essential oils & natural fragrances 
> The Body Shop’s Nutiganics range is a certified organic range that was created to help combat the first signs of aging.