Can't wait another seven days for your SustainLane Newsletter fix? Get your sustainable lifestyle info when you want it: check out this archive for a complete list of our past newsletters.  Browse at your leisure, and don't forget to write your reviews at SustainLane.com!

• Declare Energy Independence
• This Fourth of July, declare energy independence. It's our duty as conscientious consumers (and Americans) to reduce how much energy we use, so let's channel the revolutionary spirit of our founding fathers and revolt against excess energy consumption.
• How to Keep Your Pet Happy and Healthy
• You make sure your kids drink from BPA-Free water bottles, but what about when Spot slurps up water from his doggy dish? From organic hemp dog chews to cutting your cat's carbon pawprint, SustainLane community members offer these tips to increase your furry friends' longevity.
• Can Packaging be Good for the Environment?
• Packaging isn't just "peanuts" anymore. It accounts for 32 percent of all the waste Americans generate every year, and its size, weight, and shape can mean the difference between ten containers shipped from China or two. This means packaging has a dramatic affect on both our physical and carbon footprint. But never fear - major companies and individuals alike are taking steps to reduce packaging everywhere they can. Read on to find out how.
• 5 Green Gifts Every Dad Will Cherish
• The greenest Father's Day gift is one that won't end up in the junk drawer. Give your dad a gift he'll cherish, one he'll put to good use, and one he actually needs (but may not get for himself). In this economy, who can afford to give anything less?
• Gas - Fresh Ways to Save at the Pump
• Hear that clicking noise? It's the collective roll of prices at the pump inching higher and higher. While gas isn't teetering near the ominous 4-dollar mark yet, the onset of summer's driving season means we're all looking for new, no-hassle ways to reduce our fuel consumption.
• How to Have Beautiful, Healthy Skin This Summer
• What's one tell-tale sign of summer in drugstores across the nation? Shelves picked clean of aloe and sunscreen. Everyone does what they can to protect their skin from the summer's hot sun, dry air, and wind. But what's really the best way to take care of your skin in the summertime? We bring you the best tips we've found so you can gleefully bask in the season's sun.
• Summertime and the Grillin's Easy
• Since the dawn of man, flames have been stoked and food cooked over them. Fast-forward to today where grilling has come under fire for its ill effects to our health and un-friendliness to the environment. Are we to banish grilling? That would be inherently un-American. BBQ'ing can be green and healthy, just follow our tips to kick off this year's grilling season right
• Low-Cost Green Vacations
• Summer's arrival means one thing: it's getaway season. Whether you settle in for a staycation or head out for a low-carbon vacation, this year you can travel with all of the fun and none of the guilt, while keeping your wallet intact.
• Saying Thanks to Mom
• Mother's Day is just around the corner. Instead of recycling a tired Hallmark clich�, show Mom just how much you care by taking the time to green her gift. In doing so, you'll also extend your appreciation to another deserving mama: Mother Earth.
• Celebrate Physical Fitness Month
• May is National Physical Fitness Month - time to dust off those sneakers, unroll your yoga mat, and get moving. But fitness is more than just sculpting and toning your body; it's about a healthy mind, too. Don't worry: Richard Simmons' sequined unitards and hot pants are definitely nowhere to be found in this green fitness guide.
• Catching the Spirit of Earth Day
• By 2008, interest in a healthy, sustainable planet had grown to such levels that some suggested Earth Day had become pass�. Soon after, the economy went into a tailspin and - many fear - brought "green" along with it. Where are we now? SustainLane community members take the pulse of the green movement
• Bike Nation
• Across the heartland and all along America's coasts, city and town mayors have one message for their residents: get pedaling. And it's working: bike ridership in the 50 largest US cities has increased by as much as 15 percent since 2004. Here's what's hot on the cycling scene.
• Cancer Awareness
• Since April is Cancer Awareness Month, we decided to look at that age-old snarky question: "Does everything cause cancer?" The answer may surprise you: No. But it is true that many of the products we use every day are made with ingredients that are linked to cancer. The good news is that there are healthy alternatives that are safe and that work just as well
• Gardening - How Does Your Garden Grow?
• In the 1940's, "Victory Gardens" were planted in communities across America to help reduce pressure on the food supply and boost morale during tough times. Today, there's a resurgence of this movement as more and more people grow their own food to eat fresher, healthier, less expensive produce. In fact, planting your own garden is one of the best ways to eat nutritious food and save money at the same time. How's that for a morale boost?
• Easy Spring Cleaning Tips
• Sunny skies, blossoming flowers and fast-greening trees all usher in the spring. As Mother Nature begins anew, it's also time for another seasonal event: spring cleaning. SustainLane has all the resources and information you need to green and clean your home safely and naturally for spring -- and all year-round, for that matter.
• How to Get a Green Job
• There's no time like the present to start looking for a green job or to green the one you already have. Over 650,000 Americans lost their jobs in February, surging the country's already staggering unemployment rate to over eight percent. With the passage of Obama's economic stimulus package, more money is going toward green job creation to alleviate the dire employment situation.
• Daylight Savings - Spring Forward, Save More
• Daylight savings is fast approaching, and whether we're springing forward or falling back, these two days each year remind us just how much energy (and money) we can save by doing something as simple as spending a little more time with the lights off. In this issue, you'll discover some quick tips and information you can use to apply this lesson every day of the year.
• Green Myths Busted
• Our job is to take today's most popular eco-myths and give you the true story. We sleuth out the truth about acai juice (is it really the next superfood?), and we respond to ages-old myths about energy use: Does shutting down your computer each day really damage your hard drive? Is it really better to turn down your thermostat when you leave the house and shut off lights when you move from room to room? So if you've ever wanted the answers to these questions and more, never fear, The SustainLane Greenbusters are here!
• The SustainLane Green Film Award Goes to...
• In the spirit of the upcoming Oscars, SustainLane is giving out our own awards for deserving films that taught us to think a little harder about sustainability and dig a little deeper for the truths behind our planet's problems.
• Make Love This Valentine's Day, Not CO2
• While showing your loved ones how much you care this Valentine's Day, why not spread some of that love to the planet as well? With help from the SustainLane user base, you can stage the perfect green Valentine's Day, from the gifts you give to how you get around. And for all you singles out there, don't feel out of the loop. There are plenty of great green activities you can do sans significant other.
• Soothing Solutions to Wintertime Ailments
• The cacophony of coughing, sniffling, and sneezing you're hearing means one thing: it's cold and flu season. Runny-nosed coworkers and feverish kids may have you reaching for the strongest over-the-counter remedies out there, but resist the temptation. With an ounce of prevention, you can keep the bugs at bay naturally.
• Britney Goes Green for the Superbowl
• We envision a green superbowl bash worthy of America's pop princess all the way from invitations to clean-up, with plenty of eats and drinks along the way. So place your bets, and get ready for the kick off!
• Inaugurate This
• The economy, the environment, and healthful living all took top spots. Whether it's about retrofittng our aging power grid and creating jobs, or improving our children's health and increasing consumer product safety, Americans made their voices heard. Will Obama's forthcoming tenure as President address those issues?
• Season's Eatings
• Winter's blustery weather and cooler temps have us all reaching for comforting food to warm our souls. Though the trees have shed their leaves, there is still a bounty of produce this season. You just have to know what to look for.
• Take the Next Step
• This new year, we made resolutions to better ourselves and our planet. Problem is, 80 percent of people who make resolutions don't keep them. So now is the time to take the next step: ensure that your resolution to have a greener 2009 doesn't become just another statistic.
• The Best in Green News from 2008
• But 2009 is poised for an upswing; our first "green" president is taking office in just a few short weeks and has an artillery of optimism and positivity backing him up. And judging from the word of the year, green issues are jumping from the back burner to the most burning issues on our minds.
• Nine Resolutions for '09
• New Year's is a time to reflect and a time to put your best foot forward. The power lies in your hands to improve the planet. And besides, all your old bad habits are sooo last year.
• Last Minute Holiday Gifts
• Oops - you missed a person on your holiday gift list. Time for the perennial trick: making them think your gift wasn't last minute.
• Green Cars: Are We There Yet?
• In this issue, we take a look at current trends in the green auto market, at electric vehicles, and at other technologies being developed around the globe.
• How To Green Your Holiday Season
• This year, spend a little extra time thinking about what you give, how you decorate, and what you serve. Your thoughtfulness will pay dividends, not just to you and your family, but to the planet as well.
• Dishing Out Frugal Thanksgiving Tips
• Last week's newsletter was all about a greener, healthier Thanksgiving. Now we're coming at you with a new angle: Green groceries on the cheap. We're here to help ease the strain on your wallet-for both the holiday season and the coming year
• Get Your Green Thanksgiving Right Here
• Get ready to gobble up our tips for an eco-friendly turkey (or tofurkey) day that can't be beat!
• You are What you Wear
• What are you wearing? We're sure you look smashing, but what are the stories behind the labels? Let's forget designer names and look deeper, because your clothing choices have the power to protect a village. Let's give "dress to impress" a whole new meaning.
• Can An MP3 Save a Tree?
• As music fully merges with the digital age, we have the chance to raise awareness, support sustainable distribution, and make beautiful music with the rest of the world.
• Joe the Plumber Gets A Green Job
• Looking forward to a richer, greener future, we see endless opportunities to make a difference. Like adding to the bottom line by reducing waste at work, launching a green, recession-proof career, or even inspiring a new movement just like our hero of the week, Mr. Van Jones. For now, don't forget your umbrella, and remember -- change is coming!
• Ghouls, Goblins, And Gooey Green Treats
• Halloween is around the corner and we're buzzing with anticipation. And we're all about celebrating fright-night while keeping a spare spooky eyeball on our health. So, it's time to get out that cute reusable tote and fill up on SustainLane's timely Halloween tricks and treats.
• Beat Cooler Days in Practical Ways
• The leaves are changing and, once again, summer is waving its final goodbyes. As we get ready for the cooler seasons ahead, how can we make sure we are doing so in a greener, healthier way?
• You Made That Yourself?
• Remember when shelling out dough was all it took to impress? That's so last year. As the U.S. economy falls on hard times, more people are discovering the benefits of creative conservation, and do-it-yourself lifestyles are on the rise.
• Discover, Debate and Decide
• Carrying your water in a safe container? We've got some mixed reactions on SIGG water bottles. We may love Trader Joe's food, but some people have arguments about their packaging policies. And finally, a new take on the blessing (or curse) of Wal-Mart.
• How Does Your City Stack Up In 2008?
• SustainLane's 2008 U.S. City Rankings are here! It's our bi-annual study of the 50 largest cities and the nation's most complete report card on urban sustainability.
• Now With Better Feng Shui
• Notice anything different? We're taking some time away from our regularly scheduled broadcast to share the good news: we just launched a newly designed SustainLane.com, inspired by you!
• Improving Home Air Quality Is A Gas
• This week, discover the avoidable hazards and learn easy tips to clean up your home environment once and for all. You'll sleep soundly knowing your household is breathing better...
• Upgrade To Earth-Friendly Computers
• This week the formula for planet-friendly e-cycling is up our sleeves. Need accessories to complement your new eco-technology lifestyle? That, too, is in the bag...
• Containable, Sustainable School Lunch
• This week is about planet-friendly schooling for the kid in all of us. Learning laboratories include the home, office, and classroom, so we've got tips to inspire a greener, safer routine, wherever you are. Check out recycled supplies and books, eco-friendly backpacks, non-toxic lunch pails, and more.
• The Joneses Got A New Hybrid 3
• Remember when keeping up with the Joneses meant having a nicer house, a greener lawn and a bigger SUV? Today it seems like one-upping the neighbors calls for an eco-responsible lifestyle with all the bells and whistles. So find a happy middle ground. Strap on a spiffy shopping bag and set your bicycle's course for the farmers market. Oh, and don't forget your shiny new water bottle. Turning your neighbors green with envy is thirsty-making!
• Less Waste, Mo Money
• This week we've got a few thrifty tricks up our sleeves to ease your energy bill, pack your pantry, and to hasten your hearts desire.It's all about living simply. Eschew excess and the savings will follow!
• China And The Olympics
• Ah, China. Land of 1.3 billion people (and growing). They make our clothes, we owe them billions, and now they're hosting the Olympics. Amid accusations of environmental neglect, human rights violations and pollution of Olympic proportions, does the rise of China mean sacrificing the health of our planet?
• Green Dating
• This week we're interested in making green connections through shared sustainable activities, interests, and lifestyles. So whether you're single, dating, or happily married, we'll look at how to create the perfect green date, from getting dressed to getting there. Plus, we've got some great ideas for outings tailor made for fostering some sustainable love.
• The Pros And Corns Of Biodiesel
• We think biodiesel still has a place in America's energy future. In this issue we're looking at ways to make biodiesel serve the people again, with promising new technologies, high-yield crops, and ways to support your own biofuel needs at home. Whether you want to make the switch to biodiesel, help school kids get access to greener transportation, or simply be in the know, there's some gold in here for you.
• Chill That Energy Bill
• From your body to your home, we're big fans of circulating the cool. Hydration does wonders for overheated humans, so guzzle down some good old old-fashioned H2O, and check out some super solar-powered products and green building materials that keep climates comfy all year round. See our picks, then add some of your own on SustainLane.com.
• Green That Baby
• It's time to start Earth-friendly habits on behalf of our tiny role models. So this week we're helping parents green-up the crib. Check out diapers, drinks and duds for eco-friendly babies. Plus, discover tips and products for a safer, healthier family.
• Declare Independence From Waste
• Back when our nation was born, the world was a simpler place. People did more with less. Like the founding fathers, we're a new breed of pioneer, so this issue is dedicated to the land we love, and reducing waste by any means possible. We like teaching kids about recycling, and reuseing grocery bags and gray water.
• Look Great and Save the Planet Too
• This week we've gathered the best tools, tips and reviews to inspire healthy choices around diet-related goals. From Deanne's 10-day cleanse review to video coaching from SparkPeople, we've got strategies that'll work wonders.
• Are Hybrids Really Good for the Environment?
• Are hybrid cars really good for the environment? Looks like we'll have to send this question out to the SustainLane network of thinkers! Keep reading to see who prefers hybrids, who prefers used compacts, who likes Toyota and who likes Honda.
• Chocolate. Chocolate? Chocolate!
• This week, find out what makes Endangered Species, Kopali's Organics Chocolate Covered Goji Berries and Dagoba Organic Chocolate both good and good for you! Learn about the relevance of the "Fair Trade" label to your chocolate purchases, and if you're feeling particularly adventurous, learn how to make your own chocolate peanut butter cups from SustainLane Site Producer Jenn A.
• Healthy Chillin' and Grillin'
• The great American barbecue brings back times of the simple feast enjoyed with friends and family in the wide open spaces. It's a celebration of nature and freedom. So why not keep it green, too?
  Keep reading for healthy and sustainable barbecue beverages, condiments and implements.
• Skincare - Green Screen
• SustainLaners have plenty of ideas for products that keep both your skin and the rest of you healthy. Check out reviews for TerraTints lip care and color, Beecuticals Organics after sun products, and a great organic soap that wont dry you out.
• Disaster Preparedness - Dare to Prepare
• Starting your own first aid kit is easy, and if you're motivated, there are greener, healthier substitutes for the one you've got now. Keep reading for an herbal first aid kit, a crank powered flashlight, and some organic dried mangos to keep your spirits up!
• Freshen Up Farmer Style
• SustainLaners have plenty of plans for what to do with all that great food. Read on for reviews of biodegradable food storage bags, pesticide wash, and tips for storing your fresh produce until you're ready to eat it.
• Gardening - Plant, Eat, Repeat
• Learn which composter Damon G. uses to keep the peace in his suburban home, what Cris B. loves about worm poop, and why Jenn A. uses fiber instead of peat in her garden.
• Kids - Lean, Green, and Pre-Teen
• Netty L. suggests getting kids involved in educational games like Xeko, Tricia A. advises parents to feed their kids right even when it doesn't feel that way, and SustainLane VP Jay G. explains how he teaches his son sustainable values with a lunchbox.
• Bags - Paper or Plastic?
• Rachel K. owns a Chico Bag so she's never caught empty-handed, Cris B. shops in style with her Envirosax totes, Debra B. recommends her waterproof Trader Joe's bag for shoppers everywhere, and SustainLane site producer Jenn A. shares some figures on the problems with disposable bags in our weekly staff pick.
• Travel - Planes, Trains and Automobiles
• Kate C. prefers Amtrak to other forms of transportation, Toni P. says AAA members should get onboard with Better World Club, Abendigo R. researches the green cred of cities before he visits them with the SustainLane City Rankings Guide, and our CEO James E. suggests a great eco-destination for those who haven't made plans yet.
• Shoes - Walk Lightly, Shoe Shop Accordingly
• See how Netty L. stays stylish while avoiding toxic chemical dyes, which shoe brand is number one in Abendigo R.'s book, and why Adam W.'s doormat has more in common with his shoes than you would think.
• Wine - Wine Not? It's Green
• See which organic wine Pamela L. says is an adventure in every bottle, what biodynamic winery Mary V. visits at least once a year, and why Jenn A. loves drinking wine on "doctor's orders."
• The Green Office - Greening Your Work Scene
• Hear which phone service Shayne B. recommends for your important calls, what company Erica D. recommends for all your green office equipment, and where to find the humorous website Valerie B. visits to locate electronic recycling centers in her area.
• The Fashion Issue
• See what sustainable fabric excites Abendigo R., which sustainable designer delights Jenn A., and where Cris B. goes for stylish secondhand clothes.
• Water - Message in a Water Bottle
• Read on to see why Roji O. likes her water ionized not stirred, what bottle Louda B. fills up with filtered water, and what product Adam W. trusted to purify his water in the Amazon Rainforest.
• Organics - Look Ma, No Pesticides
• See how much MO Z. loves Mona Vie's Organic Acai Juice, which business Valerie B. adores for their organic fashion, and why Abendigo R. doesn't trust Horizon's Organic Half and Half.
• Green Beer All Year Round
• Read on to see which organic English ale Tammi B. recommends above all others, what brewery Aydee V. prefers for its taste as well as its environmental and social message, and how Adam W. plans on saving the world just by drinking beer (and reading a book about it).
• Homeopathy and You
• Read up on which homeopathic remedy Gemma P. uses to help her sleep, how Julie C. swears by Sabadil's homeopathic hay fever cure, and what homeopathic product Cris B. uses to keep her chronic nerve pain at bay.
• Biodynamic Food - Do You Buy Biodynamic?
• Read why Jill B. loves the biodynamic yogurt from Seven Stars Farm, what Cris B. sees in Frey's biodynamic wines, and how Christine V. gets her hands biodynamically clean every time she steps off the bus.
• Green Cars - More Smiles Per Gallon
• See why Chris O. says the only word to describe Aptera's plug-in hybrid is "Wow," what Brian T. has to say about his brand new ZENN electric vehicle, and how Cris B. washes her car without wasting a drop of water.
• Energy From the Most Unlikely Places
• Read what John B. thinks about Nick Delchev's pollution-free engine, the bright future that Vishwa R. can power with his bare hands, and why Mike W. never misses an edition of Home Power Magazine.
• Watts Blowing in the Wind
• Read what Tom S. has to say about his personal wind turbine, how Michelle S. gets all her energy from renewable resources, and why Jamie H. uses a Terrapass (which invests in wind farms) to offset her car's carbon footprint.
• Biodiesel - Is Biofuel All Stalk?
• Read what Karin L. has to say about the conversion kit that lets her run her car on used vegetable oil, and find out why Debbie A. prefers her Passat to a hybrid.
• Solar's Time to Shine
• Read Mary C.'s review of REnU rentable solar systems, and then see what solar powered product Chris B. thinks we should import from England.
• Year in Review - '07, How Green It's Been
• Check out some of our favorite news articles from the past year.
• Stress - Tune In, Tea Up, Sack Out
• Abendigo R. suggests replacing your usual holiday mix with a CD of Golden Tibetan Singing Bowls, and Chris B. says you will be sure to get some good rest if you end your day with a cup of Organic Nighty Night Tea. If you're really ready to reward yourself for a year well done, James E. recommends improving your sleep with a LifeKind Organic Mattress.
• Healthy Eating - Gain 5 Pounds Instead of 10 This Holiday Season!
• See why Chris B. feels comfortable warming up her winter nights with delicious soups from Pacific Natural Foods, and why Netty L. loves both the taste and the health benefits of red beets.
• Green Gifts - How To Make Your Holiday Greener Than The Grinch
• This issue focuses on giving green gifts this holiday season. See what Kim W. thinks about hip, chic and recycled gifts from Gigglefish, and see why James E. says Klean Kanteens make better presents then plastic Nalgenes. Plus, examine the results from last week's Holiday Waste Survey, and don't forget to check out the SustainLane Holiday Gift Guide to make sure your gifts echo your eco-philosophy!
• Cut Holiday Clutter
• Cris B. signed up for Catalog Choice to eliminate the delivery of unwanted catalogs, and Adam W. wraps all his gifts in newspaper. Take our Gift Giving Survey, and check out the results of our Thanksgiving Survey. Plus! Find the perfect gift with the SustainLane Holiday Gift Guide.
• Alleviating Eczema
• Mike A. created Emily Baby and Adult Skin Soother for his daughter's eczema, and Jessica P. had great results using Pomega 5 Healing Cream.
• Gluten-Free 'n Easy
• Cris B. whips up Ancient Harvest Quinoa Flakes for a healthy gluten free breakfast, and Deanne S. uses Bob's Red Mill Almond Flour for yummy baked goods.
• Detoxing Your Way to Health and Happiness
• This edition is all about detox, a popular topic among SustainLane users. Kate B. underwent the Master Cleanse and SustainLane staffer, Deanne S., performs a bi-annual cleanse with Garden of Life Perfect Cleanse.
• Breast Cancer - Steps to Prevent It
• October is breast cancer awareness month, and this edition focuses on awareness and steps toward prevention. Cris B. reviews Valley Fresh Chicken, who will donate to the Susan G. Komen For The Cure Foundation for every purchase, and Christine V. shares a powerful new book called Exposed about toxins in our everyday environment.
• Coffee - A Whole Latte Love
• Susie S. picks up a Box O'Beans by Gorilla Coffee Roasters whenever she is in Brooklyn, and your newsletter author Netty L. indulges in the non-green guilty pleasure of having organic, fair-trade Holler Mountain Blend coffee shipped to her from Stumptown Coffee Roasters in Portland, Oregon.
• Pets - Green Paws
• Chiyo C. gives her Labrador / shepherd mix a bath with non-toxic Earthbath Oatmeal and Aloe Dog Shampoo, and James E. recommends Raw Instinct Cat Food for healthy kitties.
• Cosmetics -Putting a Green Face Forward
• Susie S. relies on Burt's Bees Natural Tinted Facial Moisturizer, and SustainLane Staffer, Christine V. brings her non-toxic nail polish by Anise along with her into the nail salon.
• Kids - Green Little Ones
• This edition is all about the tiny greenies out there: babies, infants and children. SustainLane member, Elizabeth D., raves about gDiapers, Reid K., VP of business development, recommends glass baby bottles, and The Unsustainables find a creative use for a baby bjorn.
• Packaging - Good Things Come in Natural Packages
• This edition is about packaging, recycling and re-use. One of our users recommends a minimally packaged, airline friendly shampoo, The Unsustainables get recycled on Yahoo! Video, and we talk about how one of our favorite personal care companies, Pangea Organics, takes re-usable packaging to a whole other level.