Kit by: Royal Sayewitz
Market Manager | Green Market, Grow NYC

This is a kit of things that make me happy and come from makers who respect the delicate balance that must be met when using the earth’s resources to craft things for human consumption. In short, if I were stranded on an island, these are a few things I would definitely want to have in my survival kit. I’ve chosen my favorite cooking companion, organic / fair trade soap, tea blend, and, of course, books that are both a great read — and that help to bring about environmental consciousness. Plus, for those of you who are fond of hiking and nature excursions (like myself), I’ve included a few things that I would still have in my survival kit, but also that I like to take with me when I’m traveling and walking amongst nature.

eco friendly travel conscious consumption best books on nature eco friendly gifts

Discover eco-friendly travel and hiking accessories, the best books on nature, and other eco-friendly gifts for a mindful life of conscious consumption. Discover eco-friendly travel and hiking accessories, the best books on nature, and other eco-friendly gifts for a mindful life of conscious consumption. Discover eco-friendly travel and hiking accessories, the best books on nature, and other eco-friendly gifts for a mindful life of conscious consumption.

8 Everyday Must-Haves for the Conscious Consumer

Good Reads. Kitchen Basics. Conscious Choices.

Estate-Grown All Natural California Olive Oil
By: Bariani Olive Oil Company

A Better Alternative

The recent exposure of olive oil fraud (primarily in Italy: see here) should definitely inform your next olive oil purchase. Biriani is a California producer with integrity, and it’s evident in their product. Their oil has a special vegetal, nutty richness. The depth of flavor is unreal. They oversee their entire production process–from olive growth to cold-press — with a conscious effort to limit their environmental impact.

Organic, Vegan, Fair Trade Castile Liquid Soap (Eucalyptus)
By: Dr. Bronner’s

A Better Alternative

I have been showering with this magical potion for years! The eucalyptus oil is powerful and uplifting, earthy and sweet. It also has tremendous medicinal value. Eucalyptus oil opens the bronchial passageways, and reduces sinus inflammation — it’s a key product for anyone with Spring allergies or sinus pressure. Plus, Dr. Bronner’s is a company guided by social and environmental responsibility — using certified organic and vegan ingredients to produce a product that is free of synthetic detergents and preservatives, and packaged in 100% post consumer recycled (PCR) plastic bottles.

Sustainably-Sourced, Handrolled Jasmine Pearls Green Tea (Loose Leaf)
By: The Tao of Tea

A Better Alternative

Jasmine Pearls is one of my favorite teas. It’s incredibly aromatic and floral. Each hand-rolled pearl consists of one green tea leaf and one Jasmine flower petal in a perfect little bundle. As you brew, the pearls unfurl before your very eyes. You can brew this type of tea three or even four times depending on how long you steep each brew. The Tao of Tea is also a highly regarded brand, with a strong commitment to ethical sourcing practices that better communities of tea farmers and the land they farm.

Best-Selling, “Ishmael: An Adventure of the Mind and Spirit”
By: Daniel Quinn

A Better Alternative

Now that you are fired up on caffeine, definitely start and FINISH this book. Ishmael is a thought-provoking read, fit for just one or two sittings. From the perspective of another species, author Daniel Quinn offers a unique perspective on humanity’s relationship with the natural world. If you were looking for a book of truth, philosophical insight, and gorillas, look no further. I highly recommend this book.

Best-Selling, “This Changes Everything: Capitalism vs. The Climate”
By: Naomi Klein

A Better Alternative

“This Changes Everything” will shake the ground beneath you. There are few books that challenge capitalism more effectively. If you are a discontented environmentalist, or interested in understanding why and how forces beyond our control and/or awareness manipulate the world around us, commit to this read. Once again, I loved it, and highly recommend it.

Solar Powered Hiking Daypack with Recharging Station
By: ECEEN®

A Better Alternative

If you like to camp outdoors and enjoy hiking and spending a couple days amongst nature, then I recommend this solar powered backpack. I’ve had good experiences with it, and it comes in handy whenever I need to charge my phone and aren’t near any kind of outlet (which goes without saying when you’re hiking!). I can also fit all my stuff in it pretty well, and it has yet to rip or break.

Eco-Fabric Hoodie (USA-Made)
By: Alternative Apparel

A Better Alternative

A classic hoodie for any season. It’s made with organic cotton, so it’s soft and lightweight. It has a tailored, but comfortable fit, and is made by a great company that uses sustainable fabrics and follows the Fair Labor Association (FLA) Workplace Code of Conduct. The hoodie also comes in different colors, and they make a women’s version.

Responsibly-Sourced Organic Coconut Oil for Skin & Hair (100% Natural Cold-Pressed)
By: Kapuluan Coconut

A Better Alternative

To put it softly, I’m a fan of coconut oil. I keep a coconut moisturizing product in my apartment and will often put one in my bag when I travel or hike. It’s a versatile ingredient and can be used to heal your skin and hair. This company also understand the importance of sourcing responsibly and sustainably, and is committed to obtaining their coconut ingredients ethically.

Hello! I’m Royal Sayewitz. I’m a recent graduate of New York University, and have BA in Environmental Studies with minors in Politics and Psychology. Prior to attending NYU, I received an Associates Degree from the Culinary Institute of America in Culinary Arts. I’m now a Market Manager for Grow NYC. I’m interested in: finding solutions to improve local food accessibility and investigating how to reconcile corporate interests with environmentally conscious and socially equitable practices that ultimately effectuate a positive change in humanities relationship to the planet.

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