The sexy itHouse is a design system created by L.A. based, Taalman Koch Architecture.  The eco-friendly home is comprised of a series components manufactured off-site.  The home, which is designed to be flat packed and easily shipped, is prefabricated to better control the construction waste, labor, and quality of the finished product.

Designed with glass walls and an open floor plan, (no neighbors, please) itHouse is intended to maximize the relationship of the occupant to the surrounding landscape while minimizing the home’s impact on the local ecosystem.

Passive heating and cooling, site orientation, cross ventilation, radiant floor heating, hi-efficacy appliances and the use of solar photovoltaic and thermal panels enhance the home’s energy efficiency and off-the-grid potential.

more pix after the jump

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Why be a schlump when you can look sharp, even as you haul your lunch from home.  Here’s a happening way to pack those homemade salads, sandwiches and snacks as you head back to school or the office.

From Nubius Organics, check out the ECOlunchbag.  It’s 100%  cotton and machine washable.  Easily converts to a backpack, sling bag, shoulder bag or hip bag. And comes with 3 matching napkins, ($29.50).

Or, upgrade to an ECOlunchbag Kit (at R) which also includes a stainless steel food container and bamboo spork ($44.50). (more…)

UPDATE:  9.9.09 – It’s official!  Congratulations to our 2 lucky winners:  Ron H. and Margaret S. Thanks to everyone for participating and leaving such great comments, keep it green.  Don’t forget to enter our next Giveaway, ’cause you know how it is, ya gotta be in it, to win it.  (original post follows…)

If you, like me, seem to tote your laptop and reusable water bottle wherever you go, you’ll love this Great Green Giveaway.

2 lucky readers will each receive a cool Neogreene laptop sleeve ($35-$40) and bottle tote ($13) provided by our generous sponsor, GreenSmart.

Compared with Neoprene, GreenSmart’s Neogreene is not only waterproof, but also: non-toxic, thicker, and requires 25-percent less energy to make.  So protect that laptop and insulate that drink, whether hot or cold, in eco style.  free shipping anywhere in the USA.

To enter, simply:

• Visit these links to learn more:
• laptop sleeve (13.3 to 17 inches), take your pick
• bottle totes
• Then comment on this post – telling us the newest way you’ve incorporated green into your lifestyle.
• Add m at alternativeconsumer.com to your address book; winners will be notified via this email address. (more…)