What is green?

Since I participated in the “Power of Being Green” panel at the Kids Today conference last year, a lot has happened.

Several green products debuted at ABC: non-leaching plastic bottles; organic mattresses; furniture made from sustainable forests and organic cotton clothing and bedding. What does all this mean? It means business.

You may refer to consumers who buy these products as cultural creatives, tree huggers or eco-friendly, socially responsible, but more than likely they are just plain folks who want products that are healthy for their children and the planet.

Articles in many magazines and newspapers are fueling the interest in things green. Everyday there is more than just some green news, there is a lot of green news. People who made their money in the high-tech Silicone Valley heyday are now putting their capital investments in the alternative energy arena. This high visibility makes everyone much more aware of the growing concerns of environmental pollution, the epidemic number of kids with allergies/pulmonary illnesses, global warming, energy alternatives and what we drink and eat.

Change your whole store to green tomorrow? No, I don't think so, but definitely offer a selection. How do green goods differ from the other merchandise you produce or display? Generally it means these products come from natural materials and sources, sustainably harvested and managed, without the use of pesticides. It means these products are free from toxic chemicals and dyes used in the manufacturing process. The products are free from the harmful off gassing which is present in certain vinyl, glues and resins.

Mattresses may be made from organic cotton, pure grown wool, natural latex, coir (coconut fiber) or horse hair. They are breathable but not water resistant and require natural pads to absorb liquids and keep the mattress clean. These mattresses are said to improve sleep quality because they aid in body temperature regulation and less tossing at night.

Furniture can be made from wood harvested from forests that are sustainably managed and glues that are soy based and paints with no volatile organic compounds.

Textiles used in clothing and linens can be made from natural fibers, such as but not limited to cotton, hemp and wool, and they can be grown without the use of pesticides.

Products are green because they have a lower impact on the environment, as in those that use recycled wood, plastic and fibers.

When all the politics are flushed out of the eco-friendly issue, it will become clearer what is in our best interest as a community. For now, however, offering your customers a choice is good business, great PR and shows your clientele you're not asleep at the wheel.

The purpose of this column is to heighten the awareness of this growing market and to address concerns and questions you may have relating to the manufacturing, retailing and marketing of eco-friendly products. Feel free to email me, mark@lazarsfurniture.com, with any questions or comments. Hoping this finds you Greening Up!

The Green Guru, Mark Lazar, Lazar's Furniture, Lincolnwood, Ill., has been on the eco forefront for decades.