Luke Fretwell
Reviews
Find and review your favorite green companies:
Mother Nature Network
Go MNN go!
California Baby
We began using California Baby after reading about it on the EWG Skin Deep site (www.cosmeticsdatabase.com). The baby shampoo and bodywash we use is low hazard (surprising what's on the market that is high hazard) and smells great. It's dense, so we dilute it with water. Thank you CB for putting out such a great line of products.
Brilliant Earth
My wife and I bought her engagement and wedding bands from Brilliant Earth. We felt it was worth the higher price point to support a socially responsible diamond company.
We custom designed the rings with the help of BE's designer. They turned out beautiful, special and unique to us.
Or so we thought.
Later we discovered our design was being sold as a standard option on the site.
When we addressed this issue with BE, we received a copy of the legalese from the contract saying they retained full rights to reproduce. While I appreciate the formality and acknowledgment of a contract, never in the million years it takes for a diamond to form did I think BE would commodify a symbol of something so special.
We love what we created, but can't help think BE cheapened a once in a lifetime experience.
Triple bottom line: If you're going to buy a ring from BE, don't use their custom design services. If the design is brilliant, there's a chance it'll be re-packaged and commoditized.
Brilliant? Yes. Earth? No.
Sappo Hill Soap
I've used Sappo Hill, and Sappo Hill only, for several years now. Never leave home without it when going on vacations or visits. Favorite: Oatmeal and Aloe/Oatmeal. Includes organic oats.
Common Ground
Nothing beats the SF cafe experience more than seeing the latest issue of Common Ground stacked and ready to read. Always great local articles and people featured.
Go Green Initiative
Jill Buck is tireless in her efforts to expand green initiatives throughout schools locally and internationally. She is tireless when it comes to promoting others working to further the sustainability movement. Her Go Green Radio program every Friday morning is a breathe of fresh clean air (full disclosure: she had us as a guest).
Natural Papa
Always appreciate Derek's insights, enthusiasm and contributions to making the world a better place. He's selfless, dedicated and giving and his 'Natural Papa' blog is a true reflection of the real person he is.
BioBag
Ever since we started using BioBags, we put less waste in the trash. Because they're more expensive, it really forces us to re-think waste. We compost and recycle much more and end up using about 1 bag a week. That's waste management!
I'm a CEO
We LOOOVE our Chief Eco Officers!
Green moms you GO!
San Francisco Muni
MUNI is my second car.
BART
BART is my third car (MUNI my second).
GreenPostcards.com
GreenPostcards.com printed our HowYouEco business cards.
Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation is the poster child for corporate responsibility. Jeffrey Hollender's blog "Inspired Protagonist" offers fantastic insight into social responsibility. He practices what he preaches.
Favorite SevGen product: Diapers.
Ecover
We use Ecover dish detergent and have found it to be the best of all the natural detergents.
Taylor Maid Farms
I love coffee. I've consciously tasted so many different kinds and Taylor Maid stands out from them all. That Taylor Maid Farms is USDA Organic is only part of its beauty.
Delicious, distinct and a perfect way to begin your morning.
Ubuntu
We went to Ubuntu with my in-laws last year and everyone loved it. Delicious from appetizer to desert. I can't remember what we had, but I'd eat anything they brought out.
Preserve
Preserve's dedication to sustainability extends beyond the products they make. The "Gimme 5" (http://preserveproducts.com/gimme5/index.html) program is a perfect example. Their toothbrush design is fantastic (and now being mimicked by others). Love the tongue scraper. It's been a while since I've tried the razors, but the last time I did, they didn't seem to work well.
Rainbow Grocery Cooperative
Rainbow has the best bulk food section anywhere in San Francisco. From spices, dry goods to body care, it's the best place to buy bulk. The only issue I have is that some of their bulk bags don't seem to be recyclable or biodegradable. Seems like they could do something about that.
Arm & Hammer Baking Soda
My dentist says baking soda is abrasive and to only use it once a week or so, but if I'd could buy 5-gallon buckets of it, I would. I use it sparingly to brush my teeth but it's great for so many things.
Green Dentistry
Dr. Nammy is such a sweet take on going to the dentist. She cares about the relationship she has with her patients. She has thoroughly thought out how to make her practice more sustainable and is continuously exploring ways to help promote green oral care. More than just a dentist, she brings together her network of green business and organization leaders to build a better planet.
Green Chamber of Commerce
(Full disclosure: I'm a board member). The Green Chamber is an opportunity for business leaders to connect, network and build a solid sustainable economy. Join today! http://greenchamberofcommerce.net/join/
HowYouEco
HowYouEco is my baby. Please don't say anything bad about my baby.












































