Hello from the Responsible Economy

In the big conversation about recycling, we're all doing our part to conserve. Minding how long we run the kitchen faucet....bringing our own shopping bags to the market.....ordering CSA boxes to eat local and support the nearby farmers. In meaningful ways, we're connecting our household to the growing and necessary global mindset: diminish our waste til it all but disappears.

We've been keeping our eye on one industry - retail - and find reason to cheer about how the responsible economy is building traction. Take the Patagonia company's Reduce, Repair, Reuse service. It offers to find new owners for your used Patagonia gear when you no longer need it. Then there's Mud Jeans Global Recycled Standard. Mud Jeans wants to end waste by only using recyclable material and urging other garment manufacturers to do the same. The company's made an  upbeat video to introduce us to the concept here.

We want to do our part, too. Think of our new store, Forest & Found, as your neighborly resource for giving and taking. A revolving door of cool community stuff with proceeds going to support community charities.

When you donate your no-longer-needed items, we'll make sure to highlight their best side. When you shop at Forest & Found, you'll find creative inspiration in extending the life of good used goods.

To learn more about donating and shopping with us, please read our Donate guidelines and browse our Shop section for a taste of what we'll offer on March 8th at www.forestandfound.com.