Cool Green Businesses

In recent years, we have seen the emergence of a variety of new approaches in the social sector. New types of funders and philanthropists have increased the pressure for accountability and evidence-based social impact. GOOD is the integrated media platform for people who want to live well and do good. It is a company and community for the people, businesses, and NGOs moving the world forward. Their  mission is to provide content, experiences, and utilities to serve this community. They currently produces a website, videos, live events, and a print magazine. Launched in September 2006, the company has garnered praise for its unique editorial ... Read Full Story

Haute Couture is a French phrase for high fashion. Couture means dressmaking, sewing, or needlework and haute means elegant or high, so the two combined imply excellent artistry with the fashioning of garments. Dependant on the design house and the garment, the cost of an item can runs from about USD10,000 for a simple blouse to more than USD40,000 and often beyond that figure making it an impossible proposition for most fashion aware people. From fine automobiles to designer handbags, we've covered various companies that let consumers rent expensive objects instead of buying them. The latest to join the herd is New York-based Rent ... Read Full Story

Don’t toss reusable stuff into the trash. Donating or selling used items in good condition helps those in need, provides a source of revenue for charitable organizations or yourself, and may even give you a tax deduction. Purchasing used goods can also save you some money. Fundraising for charity is difficult enough in the best of times, but during a recession it's much more harder to persuade potential donors to part with their hard-won cash. Enter Kidonaki , a Belgian site that has come up with a way for consumers to help finance the causes they care about by buying and selling unused stuff. ... Read Full Story

Rather than selling products individually, a subscription sells periodic use or access to a product or service and at the same time become a recurring sale and can build brand loyalty. Subscription/membership model used by industries such as video rentals and magazines is a great way for fledgling entrepreneurs to get a foothold in the food business, creating a steady income and a client base. Cases in point: Milk Made is offering New Yorkers the chance to have a pint of freshly-made ice cream delivered to their doorstep every month. The service is by subscription only, and will give members the chance to submit ... Read Full Story

There are countless brands of jeans in the market, most of them manufactured all over the world, with components sourced from multiple countries and assembly done in others. If you wear them, chances are, they were made in a sweatshop in China, Mexico or another third world country. In order to compete in the global economy, factory owners agree to produce goods at the low prices demanded by overseas clients. Factory elites and multinational corporations reap the profits, and shoppers around the world rejoice at the affordable prices. Despite common perceptions, consumers buying higher-priced jeans are not necessarily supporting higher salaries for workers. For ... Read Full Story