Thursday, February 7, 2008
Nothing says “I love you (and the Earth)” like a Valentine’s Day full of organic massage oils, a box of fair trade chocolates and a bottle of locally produced wine.
Contributed photo
Some sex toys and dildos contain chemicals called phthalates, which makes hard plastics like PVC softer and gives a jelly-like feeling. But phthalates are endocrine disruptors, which means the chemicals mimic hormones and do damage to sex organs.
Even though most people don’t think about keeping the environment clean before doing the dirty, spending a little extra time choosing more environmentally friendly products is worth the delay.
Some sex toys and dildos contain chemicals called phthalates, which makes hard plastics like PVC softer and gives a jelly-like feeling. But phthalates are endocrine disruptors, which means the chemicals mimic hormones and do damage to sex organs. The European Union has banned the use of phthalates in children’s toys since 2004.
According to Tree Hugger, a surefire warning sign is a disclaimer that you might find on sex toy packages that say that the device should be used for “novelty purposes only.”
To avoid the more dangerous end of the chemical spectrum, look for sex toys and dildos that are made from hard plastics, silicon, metal or glass.
As with all your purchases, try to find products that are labeled “natural” or “organic.” Steer clear from petroleum-based products and anything with artificial scents, flavors and colors. Find products that are sexy but durable and rechargeable. Although these products might be more expensive initially, you get more bangs for your buck in the long run.
nutgraf
Latex and lambskin condoms are generally thought to be biodegradable, but polyurethane condoms are basically plastic, which does not biodegrade and creates more landfill waste.
Unfortunately, there are not many green products available locally — both Richard Osburn, the owner of Naughty But Nice, 1741 Massachusetts St, and Holly Kirkpatrick, manager of Priscilla’s, 1206 W 23rd St., say they did not carry any specifically environmentally friendly products — but a quick Google search should satisfy your green spot.
Latex and lambskin condoms are generally thought to be biodegradable, but polyurethane condoms are basically plastic, which does not biodegrade and creates more landfill waste.
Still, the best green love option available is to find someone who isn’t going to fuck over you or the planet. For single ecosexuals, there are several online dating sites that promise to hook you up with your green soul mate.
One of the oldest green dating sites is Green Singles, which first started out as a postal newsletter in 1985. Lee Schulman, president of GreenMatch LLC, says the site has just over 14,000 members with 800 new members each month.
Schulman says that GreenSingles was created “as a place for progressive singles in the environmental, vegetarian and animal rights community and other green singles who love the outdoors, holistic living, personal growth and spirituality to meet up and network for friendship, dating, romance and the exchange of information and ideas.” Other dating Web sites for the environmentally friendly include Green Passions, Human2Human, and Veggie Romance.
Of course, there’s always the Lawrence Farmers’ Market, the Wal-Mart Recycling Center, Critical Mass gatherings or the produce department at the Merc to find that special someone, too.
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Greening it
I really liked a new article as part of Sex on the Hill. Usually it consists of the same articles, re-written. Also, the Merc offers some earth-friendly lubricants and products in the wellness section.
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