This cheese, garlic, and herb focaccia can be made vegan or with dairy. It is a doughy delight, combining pillowy softness inside with a perfectly crisp crust. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal kneading, it's a recipe that's both simple and satisfying to prepare. Try purchasing all the ingredients at your local bulk store or refillery for a low-waste, no-plastic-bag bread option.
Photo: Food Sharing Vegan
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Notes:
For more delicious and waste-conscious recipes, check out our other blogs for inspiration on creating affordable, nutritional, and delicious family favorites.
Happy baking!
]]>B Corporations, or B Corps, are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability. Being a B Corp means prioritising people and the planet alongside profit, working towards a more sustainable and equitable future.
Becoming a B Corporation was a natural step for us. From the very beginning, we've been dedicated to creating products that promote sustainability and reduce environmental impact. Achieving B Corp certification validates our ongoing commitment to ethical business practices and reinforces our mission to be a force for good in the world.
To celebrate B Corp Month, we're excited to offer a special Gift With Purchase promotion. When you spend $60 or more, you'll receive a complimentary Stainless Steel Spork ass our way of saying thank you for supporting our mission and joining us in the journey towards a more sustainable future.
Shopping with B Corporations is a powerful way to positively impact your purchasing decisions. By supporting B Corps like Caliwoods, you're investing in companies committed to using business as a force for good. From ethical sourcing and sustainable production practices to community engagement and environmental stewardship, B Corps are leading the way towards a more sustainable and equitable economy.
Just a note that I’ve let loose on this article; it might get a little weird! Here we go…
What’s Going On
Does anyone else feel like they’re being blasted with ‘sustainable’ messaging? From heat pumps that will save the world to that latest piece of technology that is the apparent answer to everything. Don't get me wrong, true, genuine efforts should be celebrated, but there’s the leftover reality that the everyday person feels like sustainability is just a marketing message. After 8 years in the ‘business,’ we have journeyed all the way from the times when most of us had little awareness of how everyday items affect our world; we then grew with the early adopters and have ridden the waves of trends, but the baseline that remains the same;
true sustainability is within, it is our mana and our legacy, it is how we choose to live day to day, it is what we choose to pass down to others that follow, it is our individual and collective relationship with self and with the Mother/Papatūānuku.
Re-centering For 2024
So how do we navigate what is such an important fundamental to life if we are feeling ‘over it’? Here are my tips for re-centering and re-aligning yourself (something I have also had to do!). Get comfy and try to forget what you are told to think, feel, or buy. What are the things you value most in life? What would the world look like if you could live your perfect day? What has changed? Writing these down and then saying them aloud to yourself and others brings them to life.
Now it’s time to “live in the feeling of the wish fulfilled” as personal development Neville Goddard is famous for in his book and philosophy, Law of Assumption. Sure, your tiny farm might not happen overnight, but when you repeatedly live in the feeling that it has happened, your subconscious brain (the brain that dominates most of the time) doesn’t know the difference. The resulting action you take and your raised energy field will start to move you in the right direction.
Strategy
So, how do we get there? Here are the things I’m focusing on to give you a feel for how to rekindle your sustainability love. We like to focus on the ‘how’ at CaliWoods! These things are my expression of the important parts of being human and make me feel good - pick and choose what resonates, or come up with your own.
Hard skills & limiting tech - this is a continued goal, and for the third year, I’ll be slowly adding to my hard skills bucket. From growing and preserving food to climbing rocks, I want to know how to do physical things. This makes me feel more connected to the world and, in a sense, more useful. I leave my phone at home a lot when I go out. I also don’t have much social media anymore, which might seem like the weirdest and most extreme thing ever to some people. There’s just so much more time in my day, I can be fully present, and, over the last 2 years, it has re-wired the way my brain works.
Instead of thinking about a moment that would be great for posting online, I just enjoy the moment! That detox took at least a year for my brain to switch back to what I call ‘non-instagram brain’, where the gratification is built into the moment – rather than social dopamine. I just take the best parts of the internet (knowledge sharing and interconnectedness), leave the rest, and then try to give more attention to the physical, organic world.
Pro-tip: if no socials appeals but seems impossible given your current patterns, set strong boundaries around when and how much you use those apps. Who needs to know what your high school classmate ate for breakfast on Tuesday? All phones have notification settings or Quiet Mode. Start there and then work your way up.
Image: My little guy in our food garden at home
Connection to nature - we protect what we love, and when we hike, bike, surf, and swim out in the wild, it becomes an essential part of our being. We are of Earth, not separate from it. This can be understood by looking at the baseline of frequency. We need the heartbeat of the Earth, or the Schumann Resonances, to survive. This was quickly realised in the 1960s when space travel took off. Such frequencies need to be recreated for astronauts heading into space if they are to avoid fatigue, depression, and bone loss, amongst many other ailments1.
Along the same lines, when a part of your body is touching the Earth (sometimes referred to as Grounding, eg. swimming, walking barefoot, or sitting on the ground with skin exposed), there is a small charge flow between you and the ground2. Compared to sitting inside and wearing shoes, it’s out with the static electricity and in with the free electrons. Energetically, this helps you align with the Earth's electromagnetic frequency (those important ones we just talked about).
The ultimate barefoot hippie slam dunk – the irony isn’t lost here! There are, however, many varied and peer-reviewed studies on the positive effects of Grounding on health, from regulating cortisol, improving sleep, pain, and stress3, to reduced brain bioactivity, and reduced blood viscosity for cardiovascular health4. Got a wild toddler? Take them outside and run around with no shoes, a proven technique in my house! The point here is that we can’t survive without the Mother, without our home; she is us, and we are her. Returning to this base-level fact is a very poignant connection between our daily choices and collective direction.
Pro-tip: find what you love to do in nature and prioritise those activities three times per week. Lying on a beach definitely counts!
Connection to food - how long does it take to grow an onion? Is $5 really too much for an organic broccoli? I couldn’t definitively answer both questions until I started growing food. It was always a dream, but as a transient traveling surfer, that dream has only recently become a reality. With my amateur green-thumb status, I’m not one to give direct gardening advice but rather inspire by saying that in 3 years and with a 35 square meter garden, we eat at least 80% of our fresh food from the backyard. We started small with two tomato plants in a pot and a ½ square meter GrowPod. A very cool part of this is that our nearly 3-year-old can identify more plants and weeds than most adults. He acts like a gorilla in his food forest, eating greens, peas, and flower petals straight from the plant!
In my family, the knowledge of food growing was lost somewhere between my grandparents and the supermarkets opening in every neighbourhood of New Zealand. Food was so cheap when they first opened; why would you even bother having chickens or growing veggies? Oh, how times have changed, but other than saving money, I have found this learning curve to be one of the most wholesome undertakings of my adult life. Our food is fresher and more nutrient-dense. I also know the seed's origin, there’s no plastic packaging, and it hasn’t been transported from halfway around the world. Home gardens for the win!
Pro-tip: if you are interested in growing food, start small and grow what you eat regularly. Expand your garden as you add knowledge.
Meditation & Mindset – finding our place and purpose in the world is no small task, and it’s overwhelming in its very essence to think about how we can all live sustainably and in harmony with nature. It always comes back to your mindset – and it takes practice to be conscious enough to recognise that you are in a funk. Meditation and practices like sauna help me widen my scope of vision from the day-to-day tasks (the ones we all have to deal with) to being more open to possibility, hope, love, and compassion. Our outer world is a reflection of the inner world, and I firmly believe that we don’t need to know exactly how we will get there, but we must believe it’s possible. The world isn’t happening around us; it is actually our co-creation. How amazing is that?
Pro-tip: if you are new to meditation, find a guided meditation that resonates in a voice you like. It’s an easy way to find your feet. And if you don’t enjoy sitting still for too long, you can find guided walking meditations, art meditations, or ones to enjoy just before bed while lying down.
The Takeaways
I did say it was going to get a little weird! We have covered the overwhelming noise of sustainability and how to look beyond the back of the bus advertising; we must remind ourselves to return to what it means to be an organic human, a soul, living here on Earth. Moving beyond the tech, hyper-information, and instant gratification and plugging straight back into yourself and our world in whatever way works best for you.
True sustainability lies within you and us all, and it’s mirrored in how we choose to live our lives daily. Loving nature, eating nutritious organic food, and using low-tox sustainable products (where necessary!) are all components that make up the whole. So, let’s make each day count.
Shay Lawrence is the founder of CaliWoods. She develops most of the sustainable products you will find here on the online store. Outside of CaliWoods, she loves being a Mama, surfing, gardening, lounging in the sun, being in nature, and helping inspire positive change.
]]>Sources
1 : Ground-based Investigations to Support Human and Mammalian Studies Beyond Low Earth Orbit A White Paper Submitted to the NASA Biological and Physical Sciences Decadal Survey Authors: Viktor Stolc, Ph.D., NASA Ames Research Center Maurice Ohayon, M.D., D.Sc., Ph.D., Stanford University Medical School Friedemann Freund, Ph.D., SETI Institute David J. Loftus, M.D., Ph.D., NASA Ames Research Center Date: October 31, 2021
2: Analysis of the Charge Exchange Between the Human Body and Ground: Evaluation of “Earthing” From an Electrical Perspective. Kent Chamberlin, PhD,a,⁎ Wayne Smith, PhD,b Christopher Chirgwin, BSEE,c Seshank Appasani, BSEE,c and Paul Rioux, BSEEc. 2014
3: The biologic effects of grounding the human body during sleep as measured by cortisol levels and subjective reporting of sleep, pain, and stress. Maurice Ghaly, Dale Teplitz. 2004
4: Earthing (Grounding) the Human Body Reduces Blood Viscosity—a Major Factor in Cardiovascular Disease. Gaétan Chevalier, PhD,1 Stephen T. Sinatra, MD, FACC, FACN,2 James L. Oschman, PhD,3 and Richard M. Delany, MD, FACC4
If you're ready to take your baking to new heights while embracing sustainability, Reusable Baking Mats are the game-changers you've been waiting for. From their eco-friendly nature to their non-stick properties, even heat distribution, and versatility, these mats are the secret ingredient in your kitchen. Enjoy your new Baking Mats - they are also available in a Circular Baking Mat pack as well.
Other Kitchen products you might love:
Planing the festive season menu just got easier! This is the fourth in our series of low-waste recipes which can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, be frozen, and stored in the fridge for left overs!
Affordable, Nutritional, Delicious Family Favourites!
Recipe from Vegan Richa
Planing the festive season menu just got easier! This is the third in our series of low-waste recipes which can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, be frozen, and stored in the fridge for left overs!
Affordable, Nutritional, Delicious Family Favourites!
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Planing the festive season menu just got easier! This is the second in our series of low-waste recipes which can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, be frozen, and stored in the fridge for left overs!
Affordable, Nutritional, Delicious Family Favourites!
On a low heat, add chopped walnuts and 1 tablespoon of honey, remove before bubbling. Lightly roast seeds/nuts in a pan until they go golden. In a large bowl add all ingredients and drizzle with balsamic and olive oil and add a few extra pomegranate seeds on top for festive decoration.
]]>One of the most cherished traditions during Christmas is the exchange of gifts. This year, consider wrapping your gifts in reusable and recyclable materials. Opt for Furoshiki, a Japanese cloth-wrapping technique, use recycled paper and twine, or check out our amazing NZ made, Reusable Gift Bags. You can also gift experiences or consumables that leave less of a footprint. Buy from brands doing good things (see our 2023 Gift Guide here), locally sourced treats, or tickets to local activities and events. A higher dollar value Secret Santa, where you only buy one gift, is becoming more and more popular with kiwi families and an idea you could try!
New Zealand is home to a wealth of talented artists, artisans and local businesses. Instead of buying mass-produced items, support local craftsmen and women and the smaller brands doing good things. Not only does this contribute to the local economy, but also reduces the carbon footprint associated with shipping and manufacturing.
Transforming your home into a festive wonderland doesn’t have to harm the environment. Choose decorations made from sustainable materials like wood, bamboo, or these made from natural wool materials. Consider DIY projects using items you already have or those sourced from nature, like pinecones and evergreen branches. When the festivities are over, store the decorations carefully for reuse in the coming years. We have Reusable Christmas Crackers and Cracker Refill Packs on the store as well.
While the debate between real and artificial Christmas trees continues, a more sustainable alternative is opting for a potted tree that can be planted after the holiday season or kept for the next year. If you choose a cut tree, ensure it's recycled properly and consider purchasing from sustainable tree farms.
Christmas feasts are a highlight of the season, and choosing locally sourced, organic ingredients can make a significant difference. Plan your meals thoughtfully to minimize food waste, and consider incorporating more locally sourced food into your menu. These foods not only support local farmers but also taste better (fresher!) and cut out the transport miles.
Make a commitment to reduce waste during the holidays by using reusable plates, cutlery, and napkins. If disposable items are necessary, opt for those made from biodegradable or compostable materials. Set up clearly marked recycling and compost bins to encourage proper waste disposal if you are having a big Christmas day!
Christmas is a time for giving, and there’s no better way to celebrate the spirit of the season than by giving back to the community. Consider volunteering your time or donating to local charities and organizations that support the causes you care about!
With some of these tips, you and your family can enjoy a Christmas that not only brings joy to the home, but also contributes to the well-being of the planet. After all, a green Christmas is the gift that keeps on giving.
]]>Planing the festive season menu just got easier! This is the first in our series of low-waste Christmas recipes which can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, be frozen, and stored in the fridge for left overs!
Affordable, Nutritional, Delicious Family Favourites!
Keep an eye on our blog for more great seasonal recipes, and other sustainable tips.
This giving season we have items available for the whole fam, from gran and grandpa to the little one's new to the family! We've got gifts suitable for any budget. Read on for our top picks under $30, under $50, and under $100 for the legends in your life.
]]>We understand that not everyone is working with the same budget, so here's a handy guide for gifts at every price point. Best of all, these eco-focussed products will not only be good for your loved ones, but for Mother Earth too.
Gifts Under $30
Gifts Under $50
Gifts Under $100
Top Tips For Your Insulated Stainless Water Bottle:
1. Keeping it cool - did you know that your Dawny Bottle keeps liquids cool for 24 hours? If you want it extra cold, fill it with ice water first and let the double walled insulation cool down for a few minutes. You can then fill it with your beverage for the day and it will stay colder for longer.
2. Keeping it hot - your Dawny Water Bottle will stay hot for 12 hours, hello hot tea in winter! Like with the cold but in reverse, fill it with boiling water first and get the stainless steel insulation up to temperature.
3. Regular cleaning: To ensure hygiene and remove any lingering odours, it is crucial to clean your Dawny water bottle regularly. Use hot soapy water and the specialised natural fibre Bottle Brush to clean the main body of your bottle, then use the smaller cleaner brush to reach all corners, crevices and the nooks of your lid and straw.
4. Deep cleaning: Periodically, perform a deeper clean by using a mixture of warm water and baking soda or vinegar. Let the solution sit in the bottle for a few hours, then scrub with your Bottle Brush and rinse thoroughly. This helps eliminate any stubborn stains and bacteria buildup.
5. Sun exposure: take your bottle to the beach and leave it in a hot car with no troubles. The sun won’t affect your drink and there will be no nasties leaching into your water.
6. Avoid harsh chemicals: While cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they can leave residue or affect the taste of water. Stick to natural cleaning agents like baking soda, vinegar, or mild dish soap.
7. Dishwashers - make sure you don’t put the body of your Dawny Bottle in the dishwasher. Anything double walled insulated can be compromised. Top shelf wash your lid or handwash.
The Takeaway
Nice work on having the Dawny Bottle in your life. There are so many benefits of being constantly hydrated with a bottle that isn’t plastic! Refill your bottle everyday, over and over. Take care of your bottle and it will last years to come.
Other great on-the-go products:
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Fear not, this article is here to help. By opting for sustainable and reusable options rather than purchasing single-use, disposable, or mass-produced items for your little one you can drastically shrink the amount of waste produced and reduce the number of toxics your baby is exposed to. Whether you’ve tried these options before, or are new to the world of sustainable parenting, here are some of our favourite items to add to your toolkit, guilt-free.
What:
GOTS-certified organic cotton Wipes
Why They Are Better?
Wet Wipes are one of the most commonly used disposables in raising a little one. They are traditionally made from a plastic mesh and can come with a suite of chemicals to boot! They are disposed of in landfills where they lay to rest forever, and sometimes even flushed - even though they aren't flushable (a massive cause of sewage blockages!). They have serious eco cred, are multi-use, organic, are a one-time purchase, and chemical free/low-tox.
Tips On How To Use Them:
With a reusable version, you just wet the wipe with water or a natural Wet Wipe Spray and use as normal. They are perfect for newborn bottoms right through to toddlers' faces and hands. You wash them on a hot machine cycle and can even compost them at the end of their life cycle! The dispenser bag is a super handy addition, keeping your wipes organised and ready if you leave the house.
What:
Unbleached and undyed, these machine-washable organic baby Changing Mats are the most natural option that we could design!
Why They Are Better?
Say see-ya to those blue disposable changing mats and plastic against your baby's skin. They give you a beautiful, soft surface for changing, whether at home or on the go. Super soft and made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, they also have a handy stash pocket in the corner.
Tips On How To Use Them:
Use as you would a disposable changing mat. Consider getting two packs so that you have 4 mats total in case you need to wash them. Doubles as a playmat that is gentle on sensitive skin. Perfect for you or as a unique, useful baby shower gift.
3. Elimination Communication Essentials
What:
Have you heard of Elimination Communication (EC) before? It is an option for families to potty babies (0-18 months) by responding to their signals, natural rhythms, and parent/caregiver intuition. Their pees and poops are 'captured' in a potty, toilet, or out in nature, as opposed to relying solely on nappies - it’s what we used to do generations ago before nappies came onto the scene.
Why Is It Better?
With EC, nappies are used as a backup as there will be 'misses' but this option allows you to cut down on cost, waste, and exposure to chemicals from disposables. Curious to learn more about this process? We have a series of blog posts all about it here.
Tips On How To EC:
Like everything else, practising EC is easier to do when you have the right tools. One of our go-tos is the Top Hat Potty, easy to use this potty is perfect for bubs 0-12 months and won't take up too much space. Here’s how it works:
The Top Hat Potty is excellent to keep handy in the living area during the day or by the bed. It is perfect for taking out of the house or when you need to potty in the car and on the go. For more detailed instructions visit our blog, here.
Hand-in-hand with the Top Hat Potty and other EC tools, we offer a complete handbook to get started with Elimination Communication. Learn the signals to watch out for, holds to use, and learn from other parents in Aotearoa practising EC with their little ones. This guidebook is the perfect starting point for any parent curious about EC and makes a great gift!
The Takeaway
Sustainable parenting involves a little bit of thinking outside the box and learning new ways to look at everyday items - but it’s achievable, even if you are just working on a few things at a time. These options prioritise your baby's wellbeing and reduce the chemicals that they are exposed to.
We hope you learned something from this starter blog. We have a lot of resources on the Baby Section so have a read-through and let us know what you like best!
Other great baby products:
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Scientists say that, if current levels of consumption continue, there will be more plastic in the sea than fish by 2050. We say: NOT ON OUR WATCH! The reality is, we are using single-use products without forethought, and the damage is starting to show. Plastic-Free July is your chance to go a step beyond your CaliWoods Reusable Straw, and refuse single-use plastic in all forms, during the month of July.
Plastic-Free July is a challenge. It’s a month where individuals, groups, families, and couples pledge to give up plastic. It’s a month to reassess your consumerism habits, reflect on your food choices, raise awareness around the global plastic issue, and begin sustainable life changes.
Plastic is everywhere, we literally can’t escape it…and we don’t often know how it got there! Being able to walk through a supermarket and hunt for your usual food choices in a plastic-free option isn't really a thing. Even vegetables are painstakingly wrapped in plastic; there’s just no way around it.
But what is this dangerous little thing we call Plastic? Why is it taking up so much space in our oceans, beaches, and landscapes? And why do we keep on letting the problem grow bigger?
If you think back to your high school science classes, you might remember talk of polymers and monomers. That is what plastic is made of- chains of molecules linked together. Plastic can be made from gas, oil, coal, plants, and minerals. It wasn’t until the 1960s that plastic became popular after Karl Ziegler invented polyethylene; the most common type of plastic. We’ve had nearly 60 years of plastic use, with very little consideration around the future of plastic.
Although the plastic issue is incredibly destructive, there’s a reason why we use plastic. Plastic is amazing as a product. It’s resistant to bacteria and fungi, it’s waterproof, can be air-tight, and won’t break down. Plastic was life-changing when it hit the medical industry. It saved infections, contamination, and the spreading of disease by offering cheap disposable tools, and a way to keep things sterile. But there are repercussions for the way we’ve discovered plastic and gone gang-busters on its use. Plastic is too much of a good thing.
The term ‘single-use plastic’ is thrown around everywhere these days, especially during Plastic-Free July. Picture this…
The bag, lining of the cup and plastic straw are most likely made from polyethylene. The resources were sourced from somewhere in the world, turned into bag/cup/straw in a factory, bought by a supplier, shipped into the country and then onwards to the store you purchased it from. We use these items and then throw them in the rubbish after five minutes of use. These items cannot go 'away'…the plastic only breaking into smaller pieces that contaminate the soils, oceans and now the human food chain (eeeeww!).
We are relatively advanced in many ways, but the coffee cup, straw and bag scenario simply doesn’t add up. We use a large number of resources to make something that is used for only two minutes and then stored on the planet somewhere for the rest of its life.
This single use is the issue that Plastic-Free July is tackling...the excess we use for our daily convenience has to change!
Plastic-Free July has been growing year by year, and now over two million people in 150+ countries take part. Continuing to use plastic like we do is not a viable option if we wish to continue living on this planet. Set your goals with the CaliWoods Choices Checklist and then take The Plastic Free July Pledge here.
What is Plastic-Free July? It is the start of a global movement to save our planet!
Our Favourite Single-Use Plastic Alternatives;
Related Posts;
]]>The Benefits
The Takeaway
Making this Tongue Cleaner a part of your oral care routine offers a range of benefits. From their durable and easy-to-use design to their effectiveness in removing bacteria and enhancing your taste, tongue cleaning can elevate your oral and gut hygiene. Send this article to a friend - not many people are aware of how important daily Tongue Cleaning is for your overall health!
Upgrade your entire bathroom routine by looking at other tools you need for a luxe, eco-setup:
]]>60% of fabrics produced today, contain plastic. That cute activewear set you wear to the gym, and your favourite skirt... most likely contain plastic. Synthetic clothing (plastic based and not biodegradable) has become so popular and cheap, that we’ve forgotten what it’s really made of, and the cost it has on our environment.
The truth is, your synthetic clothes are contributing to ocean plastic pollution, in a sneaky but impactful way. It’s time to shed some light on an issue we’ve looked past for far too long.
There are two main types of fabrics: synthetic, made from plastic, and natural, made from biodegradable materials. 100% natural fibres do not contain plastic, and at the end of their life span, they can break down in compost conditions.
Natural Fabrics:
Synthetic Fabrics:
Semi-Synthetic Fabrics:
The Semi-Synthetic Fabrics are plant based but artificially created and often marketed as a better alternative. But it's a tough one. For example, bamboo is a very strong, tough plant. Turning it into a soft and wearable fabric involves a heavy chemical process, meaning it may not end up as the natural fibre we think it is. If you are buying semi-synthetic, suss if the manufacturing process is environmentally sound and closed-loop (retains the chemicals) before you go ahead - and maybe contemplate the below information first.
Every time you wash your synthetic and semi-synthetic* clothes, tiny plastic fibres shed off the fabric. These are called Microplastics. They are less than 5 millimetres in length and not visible to the human eye.
Microplastics pass through our washing machines. Some of these tiny fibres skip the filters at the waste water plants (due to size) and head on out into the ocean. This topic first came to light when Ecologist Mark Browne found small, synthetic fibres on the shoreline. His 2011 study showed that around 85% of the microplastics originated from polyester, nylon and other man-made fabric. Another study out of the University of Plymouth showed that in one 6kg wash, over 700,000 microfibres can be released.
Once in the Ocean, microplastics make their way through the food chain from the smallest of filter feeders right through to the apex predators. Microplastics harm marine life with accumulation in tissues causing direct injury and impacting their ability to feed. There is also the chemical/toxicity side to look at, with high levels of plasticisers causing reproductive and growth issues**. Expand this out into the whole ecosystem, there's far reaching impact through the entire food web.
What we eat isn't exempt from this - we are literally eating plastic too. The impacts on human health are yet to be determined. Research is still in the early stages but common sense points to the 'not so good'. A plateful of plastic doesn't sounds too tasty and if it's already having massive impacts on Marine Life, logic goes it isn't going to be all that good for us either.
Even those with septic water tanks can experience issues in their tank systems caused by microplastics. The microplastics disrupt the breakdown of bacteria and can exist in the tanks for hundreds of years. Although the microplastics aren’t entering the bellies of marine life when flushed into septic tanks, they still find their way into the earth and are contaminating the soil ecosystem. There is also the question of what happens to the microplastics when tanks are emptied.
Reducing your single use plastics, switching to reusables, and shopping for a plastic free pantry are great ways to reduce your impact on the planet and cut out your contribution to plastic pollution, but it doesn’t stop there. Microplastics are a major concern, and if we don’t start doing something about it, the prediction that by 2050 there will be more plastic in our oceans than fish, may just come true.
Up until now it has been easy to dismiss microplastics as out of sight, out of mind. But with the rapid growth of human population, and over consumption of synthetic clothes, microplastics can no longer be ignored. They’re turning into a leading Ocean pollution issue.
We all wear clothes, so hearing this can feel like a biggy. Don’t fret! Not all fabrics are made from plastic and we won't all be walking around naked tomorrow - there are some solutions!
What you can do TODAY to help:
*Microplastics is an emerging area of study. The verdict isn't completely out on Semi-Sythetic fabric yet and general consensus it seems is to treat as you would Synthetic in terms of washing. Rayon fibres have been found in deep ocean creatures (see more info here). We will update as more information comes available.
**Here's a good article from the Journal of Medical Toxicology that goes further into the Science and impacts of Marine Life.
Related Posts
]]>It’s estimated that over 2 billion plastic razors and plastic refill blades are thrown into landfill every year - yup more than 2 BILLION! This is a whole lot of plastic that is actually really avoidable just by making a small, easy change to your bathroom routine. Low waste living here we come!
We weren’t about to suggest you quit shaving altogether and go for the ‘oh natural’ look (though rock those beards and legs if that’s for you!). Instead, we came up with low waste Safety Razors in Luxe Copper, Slate Grey, and Classic Silver. These eco chic designs will last you years when properly cared for.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a dude who loves an irritation free shave or a chick who enjoys a luxurious beauty regime, low waste shaving with our Reusable Razor is for everyone. All you need to do is replace the blades with a Refill Pack, recycle them through our blade take-back program (details below) and you’re one step closer to a low-waste life.
Shaving with a Safety Razor is slightly different to using a plastic razor, in the best way possible. Our Safety Razors are built for longevity, provide a closer shave, and are easy to use.
If you want to watch the summary video it explains the whole process well with images so you can clearly see.
We have the Cali Blade Take Back Program! If properly cared for, your Razor should last decades but your Blades need to be replaced when they’re blunt. This will be after 5-15 shaves on average depending on how thick your hair is. If you’re a guy with thick facial hair you will go through more blades quickly. If you are shaving thin leg hair then you won’t need to swap them out as often.
If you see any rust on your blade from residual water, make sure you either buff it out before using or switch the blade for a new one. You can see the Refill Blade Pack here - you get 20 Blades which can be used on both edges.
Once you’re done with a Razor Blade they actually cannot go into the regular curb-side recycling. Their small size makes sorting difficult and not-viable at low quantities and their sharp edges are a hazard.
So where do the blunt blades end up? Don’t worry, we’ve got your back… we’ll take them back! Here’s the plan:
____________________________________________
Yes! You can low waste shave all areas.
The key of these areas is to use gentle pressure and pair with shaving soap. Go slow here with short strokes. Hold your skin taut with your free hand. Starting with a larger area of your body first will give you the confidence to move into more sensitive areas in no time.
Our Safety Razor work in a similar way to a plastic one - but better! You will need to change your shaving style slightly and this is detailed above in the how to's. The biggest thing to remember is gentle pressure and let the weight of the Safety Razor do the work for you. Often disposable razors go blunt quickly and you have to use pressure, this is not the case with a Safety Razor.
The other difference is that you only replace the blades rather than replacing the full Razor - way more earth and wallet friendly. You can check out customer reviews HERE if you want to read other peoples experiences.
If you want full step-by-step instructions please watch the video HERE. This way you'll be ready to shave when your stunning Reusable Safety Razor arrives.
A Safety Razors will not cut you if you use proper technique. Please note that you don't need to push the razor onto skin like you do with a plastic one, simply let the weight of the Razor do the job with a light drag along the skin.
Unscrew the head of the razor from the handle, place a blade between the two top plates, holding by the blunt edges (the short edge, the blade is on the long-edge). Screw the handle back on and shave away!
This is very hair type dependant! On average this is 5 to 15 shaves.
For thick facial hair you will switch out the blade every 5 or so shaves. For fine leg hair or underarms one blade can last 15+ shaves. At 43 cents per blade, you'll really notice the difference in cost and no more chucking cartridges in the bin - win!
Pro tip: If you don't shave often, remove the blade from the holding plates and dry between uses. This way your blade will last even longer. Do not keep your Razor in the shower and use a Safety Razor Stand so that your Razor dries properly.
Better! A Cali Safety Razor has a very close, smooth shave. Customers often comment on how smooth they are feeling and how they would never go back to disposables.
Yes! They are great for everyone.
You can get yourself a Cali Linen Razor Bag to protect the blade and your safety. This is also part of the Low Waste Shave Kit if you want to get everything you need in one go.
The Holding Plates and Handle of the Razor will not rust. The blades may rust after a time given if stored wet. When this happens simply give any rust a generous rub with a towel/emery cloth or replace the blade. We recommend you dry each part of your razor after each use.
Say hello to awesome, low waste shaves and goodbye to all those plastic razors and refill heads. You will be reducing your waste and saving money - how good.
Yes, there will be enough suds to make it work well. For the face some people might prefer a thicker shaving cream. We recommend that you rinse the shaver well after each use to remove all the soap residue. Our Shaving Soap Bar is specifically designed for shaving.
You get 5 blades with each on our Razors - enough to get you started. We recommend buying a Razor Blade Refill Pack at the same time your order your Safety Razor so you won't run out of razor blades quickly, maximise on shipping and reduce shipping packaging and courier carbon miles.
Read up on the detailed instructions before you shave and watch the video. After a couple of shaves you will get the hang of it!
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]]>1. Getting that close, smooth shave
Unlike disposable razors that often cause irritation, ingrown hairs, and razor burn, Safety Razors offer a close and smooth shave with minimal effort. The design of your Safety Razor allows for a single, sharp blade to glide effortlessly across your skin, reducing skin irritation and results in that smooth feeling. The main difference you need to get used to is shaving with gentle pressure. Let the weight of the Safety Razor shave for you.
2. Shave & Save
While the upfront cost of a reusable Safety Razor may be higher than a disposable razor, it is a worthwhile investment in the long run. Our Safety Razors are built to last, with only the need to replace the cost efficient Safety Razor Blades every 5-15 shaves. This eliminates the recurring costs associated with disposable razors or those pricey cartridge refills, saving you a significant amount of money over time.
3. Accessorise!
There are a few Safety Razor accessories that we live by. The Razor Stand gives you a safe place to store your Razor and helps the water to drip off rather than pooling. The Razor Travel Bag is an essential when taking your Safety Razor out of the house - pop it into the bag with the blade fitted and it goes right into your toiletry bag, keeping everything organised and keeping hands safe. The Shaving Bar gets nice and foamy and is a great natural alternative to shaving cream, and make sure you have plenty of spare Razor Blades on hand. You can get these items in the Low Waste Shave Kit together or they are available separately.
4. Sustainability Cred
Disposable plastic razors create a bunch of unnecessary plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans. By using a Safety Razor, the only waste that you are creating are the blades. These are made from hyper recyclable stainless steel and we even take those back through our Razor Blade Take-Back Program.
5. Improved Skin Health:
Disposable razors can strip away the skin's natural oils, leading to dryness and irritation. In contrast, Safety Razors provide a gentler shave, allowing your skin to retain its natural moisture. The single, sharp blade minimizes the chances of clogged pores and ingrown hairs, resulting in smoother and healthier skin. Many individuals with sensitive skin prefer shaving with Safety Razors.
6. Minimal Maintenance:
Maintaining a reusable Safety Razor is straightforward and hassle-free. After each use, simply rinse the Razor under running water to remove any residue. Regularly disassemble the Safety Razor to clean it more thoroughly, which takes a minute or two. Replacing the Razor Blades is quick and easy (check the video out here) and make sure you are storing your Safety Razor somewhere safe where it won’t fall on the floor! With proper care, your Safety Razor will remain in excellent shape for years to come
So there you have it, six tips and benefits of shaving with a Safety Razor. Are you ready to give yours a try now?
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Use hot water and a creamy soap like our Shaving Bar and use light pressure until you get used to using your reusable Safety Razor. Once you are used to it, you’ll never look back (click here for shaving tips)
Use one side of the blade at a time, starting with the side of the blade with the Cali Logo. When it feels blunt the switch sides (around 5 shaves)
Switch out the blades regularly to avoid nicks!
Unscrew the razor and give the parts and blade a quick dry with a towel after use. Store your Safety Razor out of the shower
Clear Signals. Your child might gives clear signals like a red face, arching back, grunts, scratching their nappy etc. It’s then your opportunity to acknowledge and respond. If they have already started try telling them to wait, then remove the nappy/undies and put them on the potty to finish (or do the whole thing).
Transitions. in and out of babywear, carriers or carseats; offer the potty before you put baby in, and as soon as you take them out. Babies often need to go after being in carriers for long periods of time so this is a great place to start.
Post Naps or Sleeps. immediately sit your baby on their potty upon awakening and give them their cues. If you consistently give them the opportunity to potty when they wake up, this will show that they will get a chance to go at the same time every day.
At Nappy Changes. Take your baby to their potty and give them cues. If your Pēpi has done pees or poos in the nappy, still offer them the opportunity to use the potty because there may be more!
Arriving or Leaving Places. Offer the potty before you go somewhere to allow your baby to be comfortable for a longer period of time, and follow up with a potty as soon as you arrive.
Yes, absolutely! EC does not have to be done perfectly 100% of the time and part-time is definitely a thing. Some potty is much better than none at all, you just need to be consistent. Even amongst work, other kids, childcare, and everything else, EC is definitely still possible.
Our Top Tips
The Takeaways
Eco-Wool Dryer Balls are a versatile and eco-friendly alternative to conventional dryer sheets and fabric softeners - plus they save you time and money!
We've published a new recipe in collaboration with our friends over at Good For for Vegan Chocolate Dipped Strawberries that will surely be the first plate devoured at any summer BBQ or party.
This recipe means you can use NZ-made, organic, fair-trade chocolate, and it’s dairy-free - something everyone can enjoy without compromising on flavour. Makes 20 large strawberries, or 30 small strawberries.
Click HERE to read the full recipe, check out their site and learn more about what Good For is all about.
It doesn’t have to be like this.
Approach the way you gift differently this year. Instead of placing value on physical things, what about experiences?
EXPERIENCES/MEMORIES
DONATIONS
TIME
ECO-GOODIES
Ditch the expensive wrapping paper that ends up in the bin a few seconds later. Get creative!
Rather than cutting down a tree every year, or buying a plastic tree (urgh), there are several alternative ways to make it feel like Christmas.
Altering your food consumption on Christmas day can reduce your impact on the environment in a massive way.
If the catering is not in your control… send a cheeky email to the person in charge, with our waste free tips and tricks.
Between the hurricane of gifts, typhoon of family members chatting, and chaos of meals, it’s easy to let the day go by and forget what Christmas is all about. Take time to reflect on your year, sit and observe your surroundings, slow down, and be conscious of the present.
A few ways to practice mindfulness on Christmas day:
Waste comes in all types of forms during Christmas. Whether it be the food on your plate, or the gifts you won’t use, think carefully before it leaves your life.
Spread the Christmas joy! Christmas is a great excuse to get involved in your community and give back.
Chances are, you’ll be dashing around town like our reindeer pals, Dancer and Prancer, attending all sorts of end of year events and family gatherings.
Who wants a massive electricity bill during the holiday season? Not us!
If you’re still on the Christmas card buzz, don’t waste time, money, and trees.
Let’s face it.. homemade Christmas decorations always look better than the standard boring ones!
In all that you do this Christmas, don’t keep your eco-tips to yourself!
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]]>Looking for something fresh, quick and healthy to throw together?
A simple salad like this is a great way to utilise veg grown here in Aotearoa NZ and is completely plant-based and super nutritious too. Most of the ingredients are grow here ( look for this emoji - 🌱) or be sourced either from bulk bins or in tins, making this a totally plastic free recipe!
Black Friday is all about encouraging quick and often thoughtless consumption which is not good for either people or the planet. In a bid to create awareness AND give back, 100% of profits from online orders will be donated to Sea Shepherd NZ
A lot of the time we buy things because we want them, not because we truly need them and especially on Black Friday when there are irresistible deals left right and centre. On top of costing you money, all the 'stuff' in the world is a huge strain on resources and source of waste. A recent study by the University of Leeds found that 80% of items purchased on Black Friday end up either being thrown out after only one use, just a few uses or even worse, no uses at all!
Boycotting is making a stand! We don't want you to spend your money buying resources that wont serve you, including from us! We choose to not participate because we want to people to think about their other purchases carefully, not just hit the 'Buy Now' button because of a price tag. It also sets a benchmark for other brands, showing that we can easily do things differently and have an impact.
Black Friday generates millions in profits for companies, despite the drop in prices. So instead of using this day to encourage spending and pocket profits, we are donating all profits from online sales to one of our environmental donation partners. Everyone buying from CaliWoods this Black Friday is not only reducing their single-use consumption but their purchase doubles in impact by contributing to Sea Shepherd New Zealand.
1. Do you really need this? - including CaliWoods! Chances are, if it hasn't been on your list for a while, it is just an impulse buy.
2. Will it serve you well? - how much use will you get out of this? If you know it will be loved for years then you can use Black Friday as a way to support brands doing awesome stuff - we boycott to get people and brands to think twice.
3. Is there a more sustainable alternative? - we like the plastic bottle / can analogy. You can buy Juice in a can which can be infinitely recycled or choose the plastic bottle - only 9% of plastic ever made have been recycled. One is for sure the better choice.
4. What will happen to this product at the end of its life? Ask yourself if you are able to dispose of the item responsibly and what that might look like. Companies now are starting to take responsibility for their products and we hope that this will become standard practise, and part of legislation, very soon. Check out what we have done with the Cali Safety Razors to give you some sort of idea of what this looks like.
✔️ Use Black Friday wisely. Plan and think through your purchases fully before committing. If it's not something that has been on the list for at least a few weeks, chances are you don't need it.
✔️ Don't get suckered in to an irresistible deal. We can all stop waste before it starts by just buying less.
✔️ Consuming un-thoughtfully is unsustainable. We urgently need to adopt a mentality that treats purchases like investments. In the words of the British fashion icon, Vivian Westwood: "Buy Less. Choose Well. Make It Last"
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]]>CaliWoods was proud to sponsor this year's Zero Waste Awards celebrating individuals, groups, schools, marae, local businesses and social enterprises doing great things to help Auckland achieve its vision of zero waste by 2040.
We sponsored the Community Collaboration - Hā ora, Hāpori category. This award recognises businesses or social enterprises who are 'walking the talk' by demonstrating a commitment in building community partnerships to reduce waste.
The category winner this year is ME Family Services’ Resource Recovery Room.
Through ME Family Services’ Talking Trash initiative, a Resource Recovery network and room, where people can visit, has been set up across Māngere/Ōtāhu, and beyond. Working with hundreds of local businesses, organisations, and whānau, goods and materials that would otherwise end up in landfill are traded and exchanged for money, skills, networks, or anything else of value to the local community. Since mid 2019, Talking Rubbish has rehomed nearly 70,000 kilos of goods through their Resource Recovery Network to over 500 whānau, including furnishing households after a fire, providing work clothing for people entering the workforce, and clothing to those in need.
Highly Commended is Reusable Resources
A social enterprise that rescues unwanted and discarded commercial offcuts, building waste, and residential renovation scraps, before they could get to landfill. These materials are repurposed, reprocessed, and then resupplied to creatives such as artists, crafters, and DIY enthusiasts.
Congratulations to those recognised this year, read on for the full list of winners!
Category: Rangatahi Leadership – Rangatahi, rangawhenua, rangatangata
This award celebrates individuals or groups of rangatahi (young people under 18 years) who are showing commitment and leadership in reducing waste in their community.
This category is proudly supported by Uru Whakaaro
Growing the Movement – Whakakanohi i te kaupapa para kore
This award celebrates local heroes (individuals or groups) raising awareness, inspiring change and spreading their tautoko of the zero waste kaupapa.
This category is proudly supported by Be a Tidy Kiwi
Cultural Connection – Whīria te ahurea, whīria te kaitīakitanga
This award recognises those individuals or groups using culturally appropriate approaches to educate, inspire and care for their communities to reduce waste.
This category is proudly supported by Trow Group
Innovation – Anga whakamua
This award recognises initiatives demonstrating the circular economy in action and ‘making it happen’ through demonstrable results.
This category is proudly supported by Sustainable Salons
]]>Avoiding toxic chemicals is particularly important when protecting our little ones, as they are especially vulnerable. Unlike adults, their immune, neurological, endocrine, and entire bodily systems are still developing. Even small exposures during this critical window could lead to serious health problems later in life.
Scant regulation of chemicals, confusing labelling, and rampant greenwashing can make it challenging to know what items are healthy. Fortunately, there are great low-tox options out there; it’s just a matter of adding some knowledge.
Getting Started
Consider the items you use the most when caring for your little one. It's likely that the home environment, clothing, nappies and cleaning products rank pretty high on that list.
These disposable items with a higher toxic load can be replaced with simple lower-tox and reusable items. It’s a bit of a win-win because you will be doing something that is better for your health while also making a more responsible purchasing choice. Here are some simple examples:
The Takeaways
Once you look at everything that surrounds us through the low-tox lens, you will likely see toxins everywhere. Anxiety over this can sometimes be as harmful or more harmful than the toxins themselves! My advice is this; choose what your boundaries are within your environment, make the changes you can, and create your home as your baseline - it’s where you will be spending most of your time. The changes will be incremental and just think of them all as a step towards a healthier life for you and your baby!
]]>Looking for a gluten-free version of your traditional oatmeal cookie? Look no further! We've published a new recipe in collaboration with our friends over at Good For for 'No-Oat' Oatmeal Cookies.
]]>We've published a new recipe in collaboration with our friends over at Good For for 'No-Oat' Oatmeal Cookies which are delicious and healthy enough to satisfy your sweet tooth with zero guilt!
Unlike traditional oatmeal cookies, which contain gluten (within the oats), and could give gluten-sensitive stomach issues over the long term, these treats are completely gluten-free and refined sugar-free - a treat suitable for the whole family.
Click HERE to read the full article, check out their site and learn more about what Good For is all about.
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