Stone Paper

When I first heard about stone paper, I imagined writing on hard sheets of limestone with a piece of chalk.

 I got it 1/4 right.  Stone paper is in fact made from limestone, along with calcium carbonate and HDPE plastic.  But, it's as thin and flexible as a sheet of paper, and writing on it, in pen or pencil, is a breeze.  (Admittedly, I haven't tried writing on it in chalk.  It's probably wonderful.)

As you may have guessed, no trees are harmed in the making of stone paper.  In fact, less waste is generated in creating this paper than regular paper.  Replease 1 ton of regular paper with 1 ton of stone paper and you will save:
6 million BTU of energy
20 trees
167 lbs of solid waste
236 lbs of atmospheric emissions
and 7480 gallons of waste water.

Eco-friendly: check.

Wait, if this is made out of stone, will it last forever?  Nope, it is completely biodegradable.

But can it be recycled?  It sure can, just like any other paper.

Stone paper has some other convenient properties too.  Not only is it chemically benign, it's naturally anti-bacterial.  Great for doctor's offices, schools, and anywhere else lots of hands touch the same sheet of paper, especially during flu season.

It's also great for backpacks and purses, because it's tear resistant.

Finally, what I think is the coolest part, it's waterproof.  Yes, waterproof paper.  Sorry kids, you can't use the, "I dropped my homework in a puddle," excuse for this paper.  In fact, I need to borrow a dog, it may even be, "The dog at my homework," resistant.

And at a price point of $3.00 - $3.80 each, a 5" x 7" notepad would be an affordable, eco-friendly gift for your employees or clients.

Tritan - Better Than BPA Free

BPA stands for bisphenol A. BPA is an industrial chemical that has been used to make certain plastics and resins since the 1960s.  In particular, BPA is found in polycarbonate plastics often used in containers that store food and beverages, such as water bottles.  Some research has shown that BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers that are made with BPA.  The National Toxicology Program at the Department of Health and Human Services says it has "some concern" about the possible health effects of BPA on the brain, behavior and prostate gland of fetuses, infants and children. (source: Mayo Clinic)

BPA remains controversial, and research studies are continuing.  It is now very rare to find a water bottle currently being sold that still contains BPA.  BPA free is now standard in drinkware and other plastic products.

Enter the next stage in plastic: Tritan.  Not only BPA free, Tritan copolyester is chemically benign and is a medical grade polymer.  In addition, it is dishwasher safe, has glass-like transparency, and is shatterproof.

Tritan is just coming onto the drinkware market, so it's not widely available yet.  Here are two items that are made with Tritan plastic:

Olympian 28 oz Tritan Bottle
    Spill-proof lid equipped with soft plastic straw provides an easy drinking experience
    Silicon seal prevents leaks
    Easy carry handle convenient for travel
Prices range from $4.00 - $5.40 each for a one color imprint.

Element 16 oz Tritan Bottle
    Soft silicone mouthpiece offers an enjoyable drinking experience
    Elegant bottle is sleek with slim hour glass shape providing an ergonomic grip
    The easy screw top closes flush with the removable silicone seal that prevents leaks
Prices range from $4.99 - $5.91 each for a one color imprint.

Keep an eye out for more new items made from Tritan plastic when making your drinkware choices.

Natural Insect Repellent

There's no doubt that we had a mild, pleasant, and even warm winter in Indiana this year.  The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association says that even though we had a mild winter, we don't have to fear a scorching summer, temperatures should only be in the higher end of the normal range.

But as you make your outdoor plans this spring and summer, there is an aftereffect from this mild winter that you do need to consider: bugs.  Due to the forecasted increase in bug populations, state health officials are urging Hoosiers again this year to take steps to protect themselves from mosquito-borne diseases, including Eastern Equine encephalitis, St. Louis Encephalitis and West Nile Virus.

As you plan your picnics, reunions, golf outings, charity walks, and other outdoor events, make sure you are well stocked with insect repellent.  Take this unique opportunity to spread awareness of your brand by having natural, blant-based repellents with your company logo.

Natural Insect Repellent Wipes are a great low cost solution for single use.  Wipes range from $0.47 to $0.94 each.

Natural Insect Repellent Sprays fit easily into a pocket or purse.  You'll get more exposure in a reusable spray; every time your customer uses it, they'll see your logo.  These pocket sprays come in 0.34 fl oz, 0.5 fl oz, and 1 fl oz with a pump action sprayer.  Prices range from $1.85 to $2.56 each, and four color process imprints are available.

Insect repellent is a practical promotional item, and something your client will be using anyway.  Keep your company at the forefront of their minds, even while they're away from the office.