The fashion industry is a lot of things – glamorous, ever-changing, and certainly big business. But in terms of being environmentally conscious, many argue the industry needs to clean up its act. From the fast trend cycle, which promotes disposable clothing, to the wasteful and harmful practices during production, we evidently have a long way to go.

While there are always winners and losers come federal budget time, there’s an issue when our own government is putting the interests of big oil corporations ahead of the interest of Canadians. Our right to a clean and healthy environment, as well as our right to democratic debate, is under attack.

The normally wildly unpredictable March has come in like a lamb, and is, well, going out like one too. Ottawa Life asked some of our faithful readers what they thought about the recent mind-boggling weather. Is the early onset of spring cause for celebration, or worrisome? Read more to find out…

Beauty is no longer just skin deep. The average Canadian uses up to 10 different personal care products on his or her body every day. One Canadian company is dedicated to creating products that are safe for their customers. Rocky Mountain Soap Company is passionate about finding the most nurturing and therapeutic ingredients nature has to offer.

Winter can be the toughest season for those of us trying to maintain a green lifestyle. Daylight is limited, the vegetation is buried under snow, and it’s uncomfortably cold. February 9th is National Sweater Day, a day for you to put on your favourite threads and turn down the heat to take action against climate change.

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, many of us will be buying candles. Luxurious, calming, and exotic, it might appear to be the perfect gift. But the burning question is – do candles harm the environment and our health? The short answer: yes! The seemingly innocuous candle can be a source of lead poisoning, synthetic chemicals, and indoor air pollution.

On Valentine’s Day, we buy vast amounts of chocolates, greeting cards and other goodies that are manufactured, packaged, shipped, or discarded in ways that don’t exactly say “I love you” to the planet. This Valentine’s Day, emphasize romance rather than consumption, and show your loved one how much you care in a way that’s sensitive to the planet.