Online stores

Shopping for green products isn't as easy as it could be. The eco-lifestyle is, for now at least, considered an alternative lifestyle. Hopefully, this will soon change - let's face it, it's going to have to!

Until all the products available in our shops are sustainably manufactured, locally produced and have no major impact on the environment, we'll have to look to alternative sources. Online eco-shops are now becoming more and more abundant. Obviously they don't have the full range of goods that giants like John Lewis or Debenhams can provide, and indeed there's not that many eco-products out there. But they're worth visiting first as you may be pleasantly surprised at what's on offer.

I've been looking around the web for environmentally friendly shops and finding out what they supply. Obviously I can't make any guarantees about the quality of service you'll receive if you buy from these stores, but if you've had experiences with them - good or bad - please let us know.

• By Nature - Green, Organic and Ethical Living. A nice site that's easy to navigate. Provides a range of fashion, home and beauty products.
• Ecotopia - Environmentally friendly, green and recycled products and gifts. The online store of the bricks and mortar shop based in Stroud, Gloucestershire. A large range of products for the home and garden.
• Get Ethical - Online Ethical Shopping. Created by the makers of The Big Issue and Red Pepper magazine. Lots of things from lots of places - this site provides plenty of background information about the products available. Navigation of the site could be simpler, however.
  
• Green Building Store. Like a green B&Q or Homebase. Check this site out before planning any major DIY improvements to your home.
• Go Green - Eco Friendly Products. Mostly hygiene based - the site is owned by Cellande Midland, who specialise in natural soaps. A simple site, but does exactly what it says on the tin.
• The Green Shop - environmental products for a sustainable future. Gadgets a go-go, many are solar powered or wind-up. A great site, but I'd like more in-depth product descriptions.
• The Insight Eco Store. Practical solutions for the home, health and services. A nice site and you can buy in pounds or euros.
  

If you run an online eco-store and want to be added to the above list, contact us and let us know!

Happy shopping,
caldini