(above L to R) Global Girlfriend can recycle plastic and transform it into pretty handbags; we’re loving this adorable polka dot number. English Retreads recycles tire inner tubes to create a line of sustainably stylish handbags, including this nifty wristlet which doubles as a small clutch or makeup bag. Available @ shopECOgoods.com ($32 and $34 – extra bonus – use code AC20 at checkout and receive 20% off your purchase.)

Flattering and functional … luxurious handmade knits made from 100% organic Turkish long-fiber cotton. (above L to R) Cocoon II Knit Shrug ($161) and Chrysalis Knit Sweater ($171). Available in Wine Red, Charcoal Black, White Snow and Iron Stone (one size fits all). find these plus lots more @ prancingleopard.com

Windy days, reach for a little more protection around arms, neck and chest … (above L to R) scarves and wraps from EarthLover Shopping. Fair Trade and handmade. Cotton Voile Mud Stamped Birds Scarf ($59) and Recycled Sari Scarves in Beautiful Colors ($24/each).

Still dune-bound? Lucky you – cover up in eco chic Surfmonk style. (L to R above) $128 and $148.

Enjoy today – the first of fall – time to transition and follow new paths. Love all that you have, pass along things you no longer need.

want more? eco fashion on The Alternative Consumer

A new spin when we recycle that vinyl … Some 45′s and 33 rpm’s become collectors’ items, others wind up in landfills. Here’s one that was upcycled and transformed into a useful Vinyl Clock. The numbers 3, 6, 9 and 12 were carefully melted onto the vinyl to distinguish the hour. retails for  34.90 €

You can purchase it from saltandethic.com, a European-based online marketplace, founded on the belief that only design and style will be able to introduce responsible consumption (eco-friendly and/or ethical) into pop culture.

Around campus there seems to be a little more eco consciousness about drinking coffee – mostly in the form of more reusable mugs being used. But one gadget that doesn’t seem that green to me are those single-cup coffee makers. Fun and convenient, yes. And they may consume less energy per cup than a bigger machine, but the amount of plastic packaging winding up in landfills seems really wasteful. What’s your take on it?

Given that there are 150 million coffee drinkers in the United States today, I figured it’s worth taking a look at how we can green that cup of joe…whether you prefer an espresso, cappuccino, latte, or iced coffee. Here are a few earth-friendly tips:

• Choose wisely: select Fair Trade, certified organic and shade-grown coffee. Organic coffee has been grown according to organic farming standards without the use of artificial fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides. Shade-grown helps local flora and fauna remain intact and promotes natural indigenous diversity. Fair Trade ensures socially responsible working conditions and pay for laborers.
• Choose a reusable filter instead of disposable paper filters. (more…)