Mulch Busters

We dive deep to uncover the truth about recycled rubber mulch and why this eco-friendly product continues to get a bad rap. The question remains: is recycled rubber mulch a better alternative to other flooring options? Here are some myths, busted. 

 

Myth:

Rubber mulch is bad for the environment and ruins horticulture

Fact:

We face several different environmental issues, daily. Waste management remains the biggest problem. One solution to this is by opting to invest in products that focus on waste diversion and upcycling. In fact, organic wood mulch causes more environmental harm than good because it uses new wood as oppose to recovered bark decreasing forestry and endangering wildlife.

 

Myth:

Sand and rubber are equal in its safety ratings because they are both soft surfaces.

Fact:

Rubber is shock absorbent, meaning it provides more cushioning to falls than its opponent, sand, making it an excellent alternative to playgrounds and schoolyards.

Myth

Rubber mulch costs the same or more in comparison to wood.

Fact:

Because rubber weighs more than wood, it does not easily blow away. What does this mean long-term? Savings, because you have to ‘top up’ your mulch less often.

Myth:

Wood looks better.

Fact:

Rubber mulch comes in a variety of different colours which means there are no limitations to what’s available.

Take a Note From Mother Nature

On Earth Day we are given so many reasons on why we should go green, but the real question remains: why are we saving these all so important tasks to just one day a year? With the spike in gas prices and the extension in oil pipelines, you would think that we would speak out against the cries clearly coming from Mother Nature. The warm weather is not a reward but an acknowledgement that we may soon face a global crisis. Going green is not a downgrade where you must wear ponchos, bathe less and live in absolute minimalism. Reality check: it’s a routine change that makes a huge impact. You can still have a luxurious lifestyle by tweaking your daily tasks to include green products and tasks. 

Here are ten simple ways to implement green living into your regular routine:

1. Bring in leftovers [in a reusable tote] for lunch. You won’t consume gas by using your car to grab a bite to eat, and you’ll reduce waste consumption by bringing in reusable containers. 

Source: Environmental Health Association of Quebec

2. Bring your own reusable mug/water bottle to work to reduce paper consumption when you grab that early morning pick me up. 

Source: Starbucks & Photos of the Bald Eagle

 

3. Carpool. Ride a bike or take public transit. 

Source: Carpooling Etiquette

 

4. Think before you print. Create innovative ways to hold meetings and exchange ideas without the overuse of paper. 

Source: Reduce Carbon Footprint at Work

 

5. Turn off the computer when not in use.

Source: Natural Buy

 

6. Bring reusable bags with you when you're shopping at the stores.

Source: Fashion Meets Function

 

7. Conserve water by turning off the tap when you brush your teeth.

Source: Save Water. Save Life.

 

8. Turn off the lights in a room that no one is in.

Source: Recycle Reminders

 

9. Upcycle. Instead of discarding, recover items and give them a new purpose.

Source: Ecouterre

Source: Multy Home's envirotile™

 

10. Think before you purchase. Some companies use so much packaging to wrap their products in; think about the waste! Opt for products that are eco-friendly and have minimal packaging.

Source: The Green Market and Puma Shoes

 

You will be surprised at how much money you can save, but also, think about the positive contribution you are making to the Earth.

Happy #EarthYear (in lieu of #EarthDay) For more 'green' ideas follow us on Twitter!

Upcycling: From Car Tires to Recycled Rubber Pavers

There’s nothing more troublesome than hiking in the woods and finding a discarded car tire; knowing that it will take years to decompose, it makes you wonder how to combat this issue? Luckily, there are companies that recycle used car tires, diverting them from landfills and upcycling into stylish outdoor recycled rubber pavers. envirotile™ truly shows how you can expand your outdoor living space to incorporate recovered products that are affordable and easy to install. 

FROM THIS:

TO THIS:

 Need we say more?

Easter Revive: One Rug, Four Rooms

Off-the-cuff, a sisal rug casually dresses up a room with its intricate boucle weave and natural tweed yarn that appeal to rustic design lovers.  Ever since they became a household item in the 1940s, sisal has been known as a tough, durable rug that often is used in an entryway. Change it up: this piece can easily transition to a living (or dining) room where you may receive less foot traffic but want an element of texture and depth.  

With powerful colour pops and a neutral sisal shade, it’s easy to create natural glam, with a hint of sophistication. Here are three looks (one rug) that provides stylish functionality while your kids eagerly pound the ground, this weekend, in search of Easter eggs.