Matteo Colombo / Moment / Getty Images
For nearly 100 years, the Empire State Building has stood as a testament to the industriousness and economic power of the United States. Now, it can also be considered a beacon for the future of sustainable energy. Empire State Realty Trust (ESRT) signed a deal in early February to convert the Empire State Building, along with all of its other real estate holdings, to 100% renewable energy.
<p>ESTR is working with Green Mountain Energy to purchase renewable power equivalent to its entire real estate portfolio for the next three years, according to a <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/empire-state-realty-trust-becomes-nations-largest-100-user-of-green-power-in-real-estate-301221569.html" target="_blank">press release</a>. This newfound commitment emerged after success in a 10-year partnership with Green Mountain Energy to supply the Empire State Building with renewable energy. In 2011, the building went under massive renovations to bring it up to the latest standards in green energy and technology. This retrofit created a 40% reduction in energy use and emissions for the skyscraper. Now, ESTR is ready to bring that change to the rest of its properties in New York, Connecticut, and surrounding areas. </p>
<p>Commercial buildings are a leading consumer of non-renewable energy, accounting for <a href="https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/about-commercial-buildings-integration-program" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">35% of total electricity use</a> in the U.S. and 16% of all carbon dioxide emissions in the country. Unfortunately, <a href="https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/us-energy-facts/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">only 2% of the nation's renewable energy</a> goes to commercial buildings, as compared to 7% in residential and 22% in industrial sectors. Without leaders in the commercial space switching to renewables, this trend is likely to continue.</p>
<p>However, ESTR is trying to change the course of renewables in the commercial sector. By switching their entire portfolio to wind energy purchased from Green Mountain Energy, they estimate a reduction of nearly 450 million pounds of carbon dioxide emissions from their properties. They will also become the biggest investor in renewable energy in the real estate industry with this partnership.</p>
ESTR is Investing in the Economic and Environmental Future
<p>ESTR's properties throughout the Northeast will not be directly powered by wind energy from Green Mountain Energy. Instead, Green Mountain will ensure that an equivalent amount of energy used by the Empire State Building and other holdings will be produced throughout the U.S. This not only reduces the nation's environmental footprint but provides access to sustainable energy to areas that could otherwise not afford such an investment.</p> <p>This is a major step forward in New York City's commitment to <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/new-york-fossil-fuel-divestment-2524494059.html" target="_self">divesting fossil fuels</a>. In 2018, the city decided to <a href="https://comptroller.nyc.gov/newsroom/climate-action-mayor-comptroller-trustees-announce-first-in-the-nation-goal-to-divest-from-fossil-fuels/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">file lawsuits</a> against several major fossil fuel companies directly contributing to the climate crisis. They also decided to divest the city's pension funds from fossil fuel companies and reserve owners. To celebrate, the Empire State Building glowed green from its peak to show support for the mayor's decision.</p><p>However, ESTR knows it's not just the sustainable choice to switch to green energy -- it's also the most economical. Cyndy Reynolds, commercial sales director for Green Mountain Energy, explains that the deal was made based on a competitive rate structure just as much as it was for environmental factors: "When you have someone like ESRT who you know is going to look at every facet, whether it's cost or reliability, and they decide to move forward … it's not just a PR play at that point...It truly does check the boxes of all the business metrics they have."</p><p>Green Mountain Energy focuses on wind energy production, which is not only the most prevalent form of renewable energy in the U.S. but also the cheapest. <a href="https://www.lazard.com/perspective/lcoe2020" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Studies</a> by financial advisory firm Lazard confirm that wind energy is more affordable to manufacture than almost all kinds of non-renewable energy, even excluding government subsidies. They report that wind can cost as little as $9 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours; whereas natural gas power typically costs $23 per kilowatt-hour when tax incentives and subsidies are equalized. Plus, research suggests that there will be an <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/wind-power-costs-2478701894.html" target="_self">additional 50% decrease</a> in wind energy costs in the next 10 years.</p><p>Anthony Malkin, ESTR's chief executive, believes that the best approach to converting the country to renewables is through market action rather than government action. "We're trying to move the market with capital, rather than through a policy mandate," he said.</p><p>Through ESRT's actions, they are proving that the switch to renewables is not only for good press, but also good for business. To learn more about the Empire State Realty Trust commitment to sustainability, <a href="https://www.empirestaterealtytrust.com/about-us/sustainability/" target="_blank">click here</a>.</p>
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David Mark / Pixabay
By Douglas McCauley
This article is part of The Davos Agenda.
The year 2050 has been predicted by some to be a bleak year for the ocean. Experts say that by 2050 there may be more plastic than fish in the sea, or perhaps only plastic left. Others say 90% of our coral reefs may be dead, waves of mass marine extinction may be unleashed, and our seas may be left overheated, acidified and lacking oxygen.
<p>It is easy to forget that 2050 is not that far off. Kids we see building sandcastles on the beach today might be gaining traction in their jobs and perhaps starting their own families. The possibility that our children may inherit from us such a broken and diminished ocean is hard to accept.</p><p>Such a future, however, is not yet written in stone. A healthier, more whole, and maybe even more profitable future ocean may still be within reach – at least for a little while.</p><p>Here are 10 steps that could take us towards a more desirable ocean future:</p>
<p><strong>1. </strong><strong>Freeze the warming. </strong>Stopping climate change is the hardest but most important step we can take for ocean health. It is good news to have the US back in the Paris Agreement. However, we now need ambitious national commitments to achieve carbon neutrality from all signatories of the Agreement. <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/strategies/2050_en" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Recent actions</a> by <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/09/23/world/asia/china-climate-change.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">China</a>, the EU, <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/japan-zero-emissions-carbon-neutral-society-2050/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Japan</a> and the <a href="https://www.instituteforgovernment.org.uk/explainers/net-zero-target" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UK</a> are also positive.</p>
<p><strong></strong><strong>2. Walk the talk.</strong> We need to make these carbon neutrality commitments real. This will require massive new investment in renewable energy sources, including some more experimental solutions (such as <a href="https://news.mit.edu/2020/physics-fusion-studies-0929" target="_blank">fusion</a>), plus potentially looking with open minds into making older low-carbon energy solutions safer and more viable (such as traditional nuclear). We need to fast-track the development of <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/the-race-to-crack-battery-recycling-before-its-too-late/" target="_blank">sustainable next-generation batteries</a> to store this energy intelligently across our grids. This includes major needs for marine energy infrastructure. A future, for example, with electrified ports and <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/12/swedish-firm-wind-powered-cargo-ships" target="_blank">low-emission ships</a> would help eliminate the epidemic of deafening ocean noise, address environmental injustices associated with pollution in ports, make oil spills a thing of the past, and <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/10/shipping-industry-carbon-emissions-climate-change-environment-ocean/" target="_blank">significantly reduce global emissions</a>.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3Mjg5Ny9vcmlnaW4uZ2lmIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MzQ3MTI2NH0.ZLuv07dHLm7ITapvpvcgAVgPFShhErVUUWlGgIB6qwo/img.gif?width=980" id="19805" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="8552069a0a59a11262e7aeb466188c42" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="641" data-height="320" />
A NASA model showing CO2 (the yellow/red swirls) moving across the globe.
<p><strong>3. Blue revolution.</strong> The "green revolution" – a massive ramping up of food production on land in the 1950s – has belatedly reached the sea. Ocean farming, or aquaculture, <a href="https://www.mba.ac.uk/two-views-revolution-aquaculture" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">has increased by more than 1,000%</a> in the ocean recently. The green revolution was sloppily executed, and the first baby steps of the blue revolution have included similar stumbles: chemical pollution, genetic pollution and habitat destruction. But the blue revolution can still clean up its act. Farming in the right places, with the right species, and the right practices could make aquaculture a <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/23308249.2020.1782342" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">win for human and environmental health</a>. Ocean food research (into <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/ariellasimke/2020/10/21/everything-you-need-to-know-about-plant-based-seafood/#57b520dc7655" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">plant-based</a> and<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2019.00043/full" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> cell-based</a> seafood, for example) could also help us meet growing demand for seafood sustainably.</p>
<p><strong>4. 30 x 30. </strong>Parks protect some of our most important chunks of nature on land – our Yellowstones and Serengetis. <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/11/national-parks-transformed-conservation-now-we-need-underwater-parks/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">We are vastly behind</a> setting up parks in the sea. We need to follow through on calls to protect <a href="https://www.campaignfornature.org/cbd-intervention" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">30% of our ocean by 2030</a>. This must be as much about quality as quantity. We need to use <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/05/protect-ocean-biodiversity-hotspots/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">intelligent planning algorithms</a> and the intelligence of local and indigenous people to select the very best 30% of the sea to protect. Then the hard work begins. We must develop and deploy <a href="https://science.sciencemag.org/content/351/6278/1148" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">new technology</a> to monitor and protect the living assets we put in these ocean savings accounts.</p>
<p><strong>5. The other 70%. </strong>An <a href="https://news.stanford.edu/news/2015/january/oceans-extinction-cycle-011615.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ocean industrial revolution</a> is beginning. Human industry is growing at <a href="https://www.stockholmresilience.org/research/research-news/2020-01-26-human-pressure-on-worlds-ocean-shows-no-sign-of-slowing.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">exponential rates</a> in the sea. Even if we succeed in protecting 30% of the ocean, we must still intelligently zone and manage this accelerated anthropogenic growth in the majority of our unprotected ocean. We largely missed that boat on land. Proactive steps to sustainably onboard an ocean industrial revolution include responsibly managing wild capture fisheries (and<a href="https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/handle/10986/2596" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> making more money</a> in the process),<a href="https://www.pnas.org/content/109/12/4696" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> carefully zoning</a> what marine industries go where,<a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2019/09/harmful-fisheries-subsidies-wto/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> eliminating harmful fisheries subsidies</a>, and coming to grips with the fact that some new marine industries,<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/14/opinion/deep-ocean-mining-pollution.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> like ocean mining</a>, are simply too dangerous to be allowed into the ocean.</p>
<p><strong>6. Big cracks in the sea. </strong>Most of the ocean belongs to us all. This includes the two-thirds of the ocean in the high seas that lies beyond all nations' ocean borders and the marine regions surrounding Antarctica. Protection of biodiversity and equitable sharing of resources has slipped through antiquated governance gaps in these international ocean spaces. But<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/08/14/opinion/deep-ocean-mining-pollution.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> a proposed new UN Treaty for high seas biodiversity</a> – and<a href="https://www.sciencemag.org/news/2020/11/once-again-new-antarctic-reserves-fail-win-backing" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> negotiations to sustainably manage and protect Antarctic waters</a> could help.</p>
<p><strong>7. End plastic pollution.</strong> <a href="https://www.pewtrusts.org/en/research-and-analysis/articles/2020/07/23/breaking-the-plastic-wave-top-findings" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Plastic pollution</a> is the ocean's new cancer. We need to ban unnecessary plastics and tax other single use plastics, finally making them valuable materials we want to recover and helping to pay for the full cost of their environmental impacts. We need <a href="https://cleancurrentscoalition.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">research and tech</a> to prevent plastics from leaking into the sea, to overhaul our recycling systems, and to design economically viable alternatives to plastics. This progress may be accelerated by a proposed international <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2020/nov/19/uk-to-support-plans-for-new-global-treaty-to-turn-tide-on-plastic-pollution" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">'Paris Agreement' for plastic pollution</a>.</p>
<p><strong>8. Land.</strong> We can help the ocean by first setting a few things right on land. We must massively increase our ambition to <a href="https://www.1t.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">save our forests</a>, thus locking up a huge chunk of carbon dioxide. We need to stop wastefully spilling megatons of costly fertilizers into rivers that are <a href="https://science.sciencemag.org/content/321/5891/926" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">creating hundreds of marine dead zones</a>. Precision agriculture that optimizes fertilizer use, coupled with other <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2018/03/this-is-how-china-cut-fertilizer-use-and-boosted-crop-yields/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">farming reform practices</a> can help.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MjkzMS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3NTA2ODIxMn0.Ivf0tKh3NpDW-yGwOpnkR9tNV3DFCYx_QXE6V3gNuUE/img.png?width=980" id="c9e4d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b5a0b8bd1ebfed156eff9b4864ece1f9" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1540" data-height="1074" />
An algal bloom seen in Lake St. Clair, between Michigan and Ontario, in 2015. NASA
<p><strong>9. Wired ocean.</strong> We need more ocean data. This includes new tech to <a href="https://globalfishingwatch.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">detect illegal fishing</a> and connect sustainable fishers to consumers. We need <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/09/this-new-technology-can-save-whales-from-ship-collisions/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">tech to help endangered marine wildlife</a> co-exist with ocean industry and fleets of environmental sensors <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/08/shark-conservation-drones-artificial-intelligence/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">above</a> and <a href="https://www.wired.com/video/watch/robots-that-swim-around-solving-mysteries" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">below</a> the water to better study our rapidly changing ocean.</p>
<p><strong></strong><strong>10. Ocean equity.</strong> To build a healthy ocean, we must ensure all people have a <a href="https://vimeo.com/462717055" target="_blank">fair stake in its success</a> and that they are no longer unevenly harmed by ocean health risks. The fate of the ocean will affect people in all communities. Thus, we need people from all communities in ocean science, management, and policy.</p><p>Fulfilling the apocalyptic predictions for a 2050 ocean will be all too easy. Altering that ocean future may be one of the hardest things we've ever collectively achieved. But the consequences of inaction will be even harder to shoulder – for us and our ocean.</p>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/02/a-10-step-plan-to-save-our-oceans/" target="_blank">World Economic Forum</a>.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
- The Top 10 Ocean Biodiversity Hotspots to Protect - EcoWatch ›
- 15 Top Conservation Issues of 2021 Include Big Threats, Potential ... ›
- What if We Treated Our Oceans as if They Matter? - EcoWatch ›
- House Democrats Introduce Ocean-Based Climate Solutions Act ... ›
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More and more Americans are retrofitting their bathrooms with high-end bidets, allowing them to enjoy cleanliness and hygiene without creating as much paper waste. Not all bidets are created equal, however, and before deciding on a particular brand, it's important to do your homework. Take a look at our comprehensive Toto bidet review, and our reviews of Tushy and Omigo, to learn more about all of their options.
<h2>Toto overview</h2><p>Toto is a company that has been around for over 100 years. They aim to improve people's quality of life, and they do that specifically by focusing on bathrooms. To that end, Toto is known for high-quality products including toilets, faucets, showers, bathtubs, and bidets. </p><p>Toto has also expressed an admirable commitment to ecological stewardship. As <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/toto-way" target="_blank">their corporate website</a> notes, they strive to "protect the global environment by conserving finite natural resources and energy." One example of this is their donation of any imperfectly fired porcelain products for recycling and reuse as porcelain floor tile. Their <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/living-toto-library/smart-sustainable-packaging-solution" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">packaging</a> uses differing levels of recycled post-consumer paper products while their forklifts operate using <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/living-toto-library/plant-based-hydraulics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">plant-based hydraulics</a> made from soybean oil instead of traditional hydraulic oil.</p><p>Toto is definitely a company with a superior reputation when it comes to bathroom accessories in general, and bidets in particular. Here are reviews of some of the specific products in the Toto line.</p><h2>Toto bidet reviews</h2><p>There are two different bidet product families available from Toto: standalone bidets and bidet seat attachments. Their standalone models include the Piedmont bidet, the Lloyd bidet, and the Clayton bidet, while their bidet toilet seat offerings include a wide selection in the popular Washlet line. Here are details on the three standalone options and three of the most popular bidet seat attachments.</p><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><h3>Toto standalone bidets</h3><h4></h4>
<h2>Toto bidet pros and cons<br></h2><p>Whether you're considering a standalone bidet or a bidet seat attachment, here are some of the pros and cons to help you compare your options.</p><h3>Pros</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Standalone bidets, such as the ones offered by Toto, are designed in a wider range of elegant, contemporary styles. If you are looking to remodel your bathroom, splurging for a standalone bidet makes sense.</li><li>Toto offers a wide selection of bidet and bidet attachment options. Some of their more advanced units feature night lights, adjustable nozzle positions, warm air dryers, and adjustable settings for the temperature of the water.</li><li>All of the Toto bidet attachments we reviewed include self-cleaning nozzles for added hygiene. They are also designed for DIY installation, and easily connect to your existing toilet's water supply without the need for a plumber or electrician.</li></ul><h3>Cons</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Toto's line of standalone bidets and bidet seat attachments are more expensive than some other brands, especially some of their more high-end models.</li><li>Standalone bidets may not be as convenient for those who have mobility issues.</li><li>All of Toto's bidet seat attachments are electric, and don't feature an eco or energy-saving mode like some other options.</li></ul><h2>The benefits of buying a bidet</h2><p>Why buy a bidet at all? There are plenty of perks, both for you and the planet:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Bidets offer a more thorough, hygienic cleaning than toilet paper.</li><li>They're considerably more eco-friendly, using less water and paper.</li><li>Because you'll use so much less toilet paper, bidets are also more cost-effective.</li><li>Compared with TP, bidets can be really soothing to the skin.</li><li>They have special benefits for women, and especially pregnant women, helping minimize the risk of a UTI.</li><li>Bidets are highly accessible, even to those with limited mobility.</li><li>A bidet makes it much easier to teach your children about proper bathroom hygiene.</li></ul><h2>Considerations when buying a bidet</h2><p>As you consider all of your options for getting a bidet, here are a few of the key factors to consider:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Look for a bidet with a self-cleaning nozzle. This will help keep things hygienic.</li><li>Electric vs. non-electric? Electric bidets can offer more comfort features, like a heated seat, but they also use more energy than a non-electric one.</li><li>Is it a standalone bidet, a bidet seat, or a bidet attachment? While a standalone bidet is a completely separate fixture from your toilet, a bidet seat will completely replace your existing seat and a bidet attachment will be installed onto your existing toilet seat. These are usually the least expensive, but also come with the fewest features.</li><li>Does the bidet connect to your home's hot water? If it doesn't, you will only be able to clean with cold water.</li><li>Make sure you can adjust the settings. For the most comfortable bidet, look for controls that let you customize the water pressure, the angle of the water stream, the temperature of the water, and the temperature of the seat, if it is heated.</li></ul><p>Use these questions to determine whether the bidets from Toto are right for you.</p><h2>Toto bidets: a leader in comfort and efficiency</h2><p>Toto makes durable, elegant, and highly functional products that will allow you to enjoy all the hygienic and environmental benefits of a bidet. You can also read our full review of the best bidets to compare with other brands like Brondell, Kohler, Tushy, and BioBidet.</p><p><em><strong>Josh Hurst </strong></em><em>is a journalist, critic, and essayist. He lives in Knoxville, TN, with his wife and three sons. His writing on natural health, nutrition, and supplements has appeared in Health, Shape, and Remedy Review.</em></p>
Piedmont
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgyMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMjI3MjE3Nn0.QqBs95yaFQnGwAuf0t3XaSCc7pvrSEUalnl9UulrODg/img.jpg?width=980" id="a0c63" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9d10ad2b08c5d00642b44787c1b099ad" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT500B-01-Piedmont-Vertical/dp/B00084P3GO/ref=sr_1_3?crid=ZG6AGN0U9VQL&dchild=1&keywords=toto+piedmont+bidet&qid=1613591898&sprefix=toto+piedmo%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-3" target="_blank">Toto's Piedmont bidet</a> offers an elegant, classic design, and it also comes with built-in safeguards that prevent it from ever overflowing. It is available in several color options, and will look good with any contemporary bathroom design.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> This is the most affordable standalone bidet in Toto's catalog. This bidet is a good option if you are remodeling your bathroom or are building a home and want to save water and paper waste from the start. Priced starting at $533, you can find it through other retailers for around $280.</p>
$533
Lloyd
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNTU0Nzk0Nn0.h9XeFBojZff_4Un8swlIoamX7xAwO1wH3RKAiiZb96k/img.jpg?width=980" id="e5d22" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="83ff9c9b3ed8f1b5e92ff99c14ad9b0c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT930B-01-Vertical-Cotton/dp/B0015IVUOQ/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=toto%2Blloyd%2Bbidet&qid=1613592001&sr=8-2&th=1" target="_blank">Lloyd bidet</a> has a much bolder, "skirted" design, but it also shares the Piedmont's flushing rim and integral overflow features, which keep you from ever experiencing spillage.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is a fancier product with a more striking appearance, and is mainly suited for a larger, more formal design. It retails for a slightly higher price point: The Lloyd model starts at $780 in total, but you can find it for $526 through other retailers.</p>
$780
Clayton
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NTI4MTYyNn0.xNOnfejHaWbEVHRbO1vFVdUoWbFvevja40qRVr6L4dI/img.jpg?width=980" id="df200" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0cdb567e670fb2e46f50fbc43c99158c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The company's flagship standalone bidet is known as the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT784B-01-Clayton-Vertical/dp/B0018L9JUC/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=toto+clayton+bidet&qid=1613592108&sr=8-2" target="_blank">Clayton</a>. It includes the same overflow safeguards as the other two, and of course, each of these products is backed by Toto's longstanding commitment to excellent craftsmanship.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is the most traditional in its visual style, and, with a number of colors to choose from, it will look great in almost any bathroom design. The Clayton starts at $734, but is available through other retailers for around $426.</p>
$734
<h3>Toto bidet seats</h3>
Toto Washlet C200
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MTY3OTY1M30.3coYAuyqJLBcw8hQszI8Shbcfyr6nn9V0ek-kXv2kgQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="61762" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b7c91d2511149e271c7f0139f1580788" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>This electronic smart bidet seat fits onto your existing toilet bowl and offers a number of comfort features, including a heated seat, automatic air deodorizer, adjustable warm water, warm air dryer, self-cleaning wand, and a wireless remote control.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> We chose the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UCIOX2Q/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&aaxitk=-XjvJQOmffOcAmiCOZvtAA&hsa_cr_id=7413316040901&pd_rd_plhdr=t&pd_rd_r=0e0e7f3d-0baf-4977-85d3-663f618a76d8&pd_rd_w=Yi3yF&pd_rd_wg=LUFHB&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_lsi3d_asin_1_img" target="_blank">Toto C200</a> as the overall best bidet in <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-bidet-toilet-seats-2650502928.html" target="_self">our review</a> of top brands. In addition to the features mentioned, its dual action oscillating and pulsating spray and pre-mist function provide a comfortable and sanitary clean.</p>
$715
Toto Washlet S500e with EWATER+
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MTgzNTIyMH0.idaacYO4MzHGTeajRkSCVHOo3TH7tehRN8TAH2s75ko/img.jpg?width=980" id="f6ed5" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="87fa67b17e4c8e06f74bfbce87bf4809" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-SW3046-01-Electronic-Contemporary/dp/B078GTKSXK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=15NGPC9YFANKH&dchild=1&keywords=toto+s500e&qid=1613960063&sprefix=toto+s500e%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-2" target="_blank">Toto Washlet S500e</a> bidet seat includes the features found in the C200, plus instantaneous water heating, front and rear wash functions, two-user preset memory, and the company's <a href="https://www.totousa.com/technologies/ewater" target="_blank">EWATER+ technology</a>. This system uses electrolyzed water to keep the wand and toilet bowl clean.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> This high-end Toto electric bidet seat can help you reduce water and toilet paper use, and it can help reduce the need for chemical cleaning products with its EWATER+ technology.</p>
$1530
Toto Washlet A100
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDg0Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzU0OTU3MH0.g2PYzguGXvB1l7RvWBcw_xNtlpy8hsmcwui8Twr3CMA/img.jpg?width=980" id="08295" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d3d798b5d7737cddaadfd9f6fa5a84d6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-SW2014-01-Electronic-SoftClose/dp/B0165UFOGS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=30E9Y1LAN9ZRW&dchild=1&keywords=toto+washlet+a100+elongated+bidet+toilet+seat&qid=1613589664&sprefix=toto+washlet+a100%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFBR1FMUTdJR1hXNUEmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAyNjIwOTkxUE1EWk5CQjg2QTZPJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA0NDc1MzExSk1UMk5CQzJYVUhVJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==" target="_blank">A100</a> is an entry-level Washlet bidet attachment, but still offers numerous comfort features. It includes a heated seat with temperature control, aerated warm water with a dual action spray, and an attached arm control panel.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>One of the most affordable Toto bidet options, it still lets you adjust the water temperature and pressure settings, and features rear and front cleaning functionality for a feminine wash.</p>
$499
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More and more Americans are retrofitting their bathrooms with high-end bidets, allowing them to enjoy cleanliness and hygiene without creating as much paper waste. Not all bidets are created equal, however, and before deciding on a particular brand, it's important to do your homework. Take a look at our comprehensive Toto bidet review, and our reviews of Tushy and Omigo, to learn more about all of their options.
<h2>Toto overview</h2><p>Toto is a company that has been around for over 100 years. They aim to improve people's quality of life, and they do that specifically by focusing on bathrooms. To that end, Toto is known for high-quality products including toilets, faucets, showers, bathtubs, and bidets. </p><p>Toto has also expressed an admirable commitment to ecological stewardship. As <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/toto-way" target="_blank">their corporate website</a> notes, they strive to "protect the global environment by conserving finite natural resources and energy." One example of this is their donation of any imperfectly fired porcelain products for recycling and reuse as porcelain floor tile. Their <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/living-toto-library/smart-sustainable-packaging-solution" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">packaging</a> uses differing levels of recycled post-consumer paper products while their forklifts operate using <a href="https://www.totousa.com/about-toto/living-toto-library/plant-based-hydraulics" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">plant-based hydraulics</a> made from soybean oil instead of traditional hydraulic oil.</p><p>Toto is definitely a company with a superior reputation when it comes to bathroom accessories in general, and bidets in particular. Here are reviews of some of the specific products in the Toto line.</p><h2>Toto bidet reviews</h2><p>There are two different bidet product families available from Toto: standalone bidets and bidet seat attachments. Their standalone models include the Piedmont bidet, the Lloyd bidet, and the Clayton bidet, while their bidet toilet seat offerings include a wide selection in the popular Washlet line. Here are details on the three standalone options and three of the most popular bidet seat attachments.</p><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><h3>Toto standalone bidets</h3><h4></h4>
<h2>Toto bidet pros and cons<br></h2><p>Whether you're considering a standalone bidet or a bidet seat attachment, here are some of the pros and cons to help you compare your options.</p><h3>Pros</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Standalone bidets, such as the ones offered by Toto, are designed in a wider range of elegant, contemporary styles. If you are looking to remodel your bathroom, splurging for a standalone bidet makes sense.</li><li>Toto offers a wide selection of bidet and bidet attachment options. Some of their more advanced units feature night lights, adjustable nozzle positions, warm air dryers, and adjustable settings for the temperature of the water.</li><li>All of the Toto bidet attachments we reviewed include self-cleaning nozzles for added hygiene. They are also designed for DIY installation, and easily connect to your existing toilet's water supply without the need for a plumber or electrician.</li></ul><h3>Cons</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Toto's line of standalone bidets and bidet seat attachments are more expensive than some other brands, especially some of their more high-end models.</li><li>Standalone bidets may not be as convenient for those who have mobility issues.</li><li>All of Toto's bidet seat attachments are electric, and don't feature an eco or energy-saving mode like some other options.</li></ul><h2>The benefits of buying a bidet</h2><p>Why buy a bidet at all? There are plenty of perks, both for you and the planet:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Bidets offer a more thorough, hygienic cleaning than toilet paper.</li><li>They're considerably more eco-friendly, using less water and paper.</li><li>Because you'll use so much less toilet paper, bidets are also more cost-effective.</li><li>Compared with TP, bidets can be really soothing to the skin.</li><li>They have special benefits for women, and especially pregnant women, helping minimize the risk of a UTI.</li><li>Bidets are highly accessible, even to those with limited mobility.</li><li>A bidet makes it much easier to teach your children about proper bathroom hygiene.</li></ul><h2>Considerations when buying a bidet</h2><p>As you consider all of your options for getting a bidet, here are a few of the key factors to consider:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Look for a bidet with a self-cleaning nozzle. This will help keep things hygienic.</li><li>Electric vs. non-electric? Electric bidets can offer more comfort features, like a heated seat, but they also use more energy than a non-electric one.</li><li>Is it a standalone bidet, a bidet seat, or a bidet attachment? While a standalone bidet is a completely separate fixture from your toilet, a bidet seat will completely replace your existing seat and a bidet attachment will be installed onto your existing toilet seat. These are usually the least expensive, but also come with the fewest features.</li><li>Does the bidet connect to your home's hot water? If it doesn't, you will only be able to clean with cold water.</li><li>Make sure you can adjust the settings. For the most comfortable bidet, look for controls that let you customize the water pressure, the angle of the water stream, the temperature of the water, and the temperature of the seat, if it is heated.</li></ul><p>Use these questions to determine whether the bidets from Toto are right for you.</p><h2>Toto bidets: a leader in comfort and efficiency</h2><p>Toto makes durable, elegant, and highly functional products that will allow you to enjoy all the hygienic and environmental benefits of a bidet. You can also read our full review of the best bidets to compare with other brands like Brondell, Kohler, Tushy, and BioBidet.</p><p><em><strong>Josh Hurst </strong></em><em>is a journalist, critic, and essayist. He lives in Knoxville, TN, with his wife and three sons. His writing on natural health, nutrition, and supplements has appeared in Health, Shape, and Remedy Review.</em></p>
Piedmont
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgyMy9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyMjI3MjE3Nn0.QqBs95yaFQnGwAuf0t3XaSCc7pvrSEUalnl9UulrODg/img.jpg?width=980" id="a0c63" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9d10ad2b08c5d00642b44787c1b099ad" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p><a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT500B-01-Piedmont-Vertical/dp/B00084P3GO/ref=sr_1_3?crid=ZG6AGN0U9VQL&dchild=1&keywords=toto+piedmont+bidet&qid=1613591898&sprefix=toto+piedmo%2Caps%2C188&sr=8-3" target="_blank">Toto's Piedmont bidet</a> offers an elegant, classic design, and it also comes with built-in safeguards that prevent it from ever overflowing. It is available in several color options, and will look good with any contemporary bathroom design.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> This is the most affordable standalone bidet in Toto's catalog. This bidet is a good option if you are remodeling your bathroom or are building a home and want to save water and paper waste from the start. Priced starting at $533, you can find it through other retailers for around $280.</p>
$533
Lloyd
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzMS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNTU0Nzk0Nn0.h9XeFBojZff_4Un8swlIoamX7xAwO1wH3RKAiiZb96k/img.jpg?width=980" id="e5d22" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="83ff9c9b3ed8f1b5e92ff99c14ad9b0c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT930B-01-Vertical-Cotton/dp/B0015IVUOQ/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=toto%2Blloyd%2Bbidet&qid=1613592001&sr=8-2&th=1" target="_blank">Lloyd bidet</a> has a much bolder, "skirted" design, but it also shares the Piedmont's flushing rim and integral overflow features, which keep you from ever experiencing spillage.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is a fancier product with a more striking appearance, and is mainly suited for a larger, more formal design. It retails for a slightly higher price point: The Lloyd model starts at $780 in total, but you can find it for $526 through other retailers.</p>
$780
Clayton
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzMi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NTI4MTYyNn0.xNOnfejHaWbEVHRbO1vFVdUoWbFvevja40qRVr6L4dI/img.jpg?width=980" id="df200" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0cdb567e670fb2e46f50fbc43c99158c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The company's flagship standalone bidet is known as the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-BT784B-01-Clayton-Vertical/dp/B0018L9JUC/ref=sr_1_2?dchild=1&keywords=toto+clayton+bidet&qid=1613592108&sr=8-2" target="_blank">Clayton</a>. It includes the same overflow safeguards as the other two, and of course, each of these products is backed by Toto's longstanding commitment to excellent craftsmanship.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is the most traditional in its visual style, and, with a number of colors to choose from, it will look great in almost any bathroom design. The Clayton starts at $734, but is available through other retailers for around $426.</p>
$734
<h3>Toto bidet seats</h3>
Toto Washlet C200
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MTY3OTY1M30.3coYAuyqJLBcw8hQszI8Shbcfyr6nn9V0ek-kXv2kgQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="61762" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b7c91d2511149e271c7f0139f1580788" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>This electronic smart bidet seat fits onto your existing toilet bowl and offers a number of comfort features, including a heated seat, automatic air deodorizer, adjustable warm water, warm air dryer, self-cleaning wand, and a wireless remote control.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> We chose the <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UCIOX2Q/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&aaxitk=-XjvJQOmffOcAmiCOZvtAA&hsa_cr_id=7413316040901&pd_rd_plhdr=t&pd_rd_r=0e0e7f3d-0baf-4977-85d3-663f618a76d8&pd_rd_w=Yi3yF&pd_rd_wg=LUFHB&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_lsi3d_asin_1_img" target="_blank">Toto C200</a> as the overall best bidet in <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/best-bidet-toilet-seats-2650502928.html" target="_self">our review</a> of top brands. In addition to the features mentioned, its dual action oscillating and pulsating spray and pre-mist function provide a comfortable and sanitary clean.</p>
$715
Toto Washlet S500e with EWATER+
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDgzOS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MTgzNTIyMH0.idaacYO4MzHGTeajRkSCVHOo3TH7tehRN8TAH2s75ko/img.jpg?width=980" id="f6ed5" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="87fa67b17e4c8e06f74bfbce87bf4809" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-SW3046-01-Electronic-Contemporary/dp/B078GTKSXK/ref=sr_1_2?crid=15NGPC9YFANKH&dchild=1&keywords=toto+s500e&qid=1613960063&sprefix=toto+s500e%2Caps%2C171&sr=8-2" target="_blank">Toto Washlet S500e</a> bidet seat includes the features found in the C200, plus instantaneous water heating, front and rear wash functions, two-user preset memory, and the company's <a href="https://www.totousa.com/technologies/ewater" target="_blank">EWATER+ technology</a>. This system uses electrolyzed water to keep the wand and toilet bowl clean.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> This high-end Toto electric bidet seat can help you reduce water and toilet paper use, and it can help reduce the need for chemical cleaning products with its EWATER+ technology.</p>
$1530
Toto Washlet A100
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY3MDg0Mi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MzU0OTU3MH0.g2PYzguGXvB1l7RvWBcw_xNtlpy8hsmcwui8Twr3CMA/img.jpg?width=980" id="08295" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d3d798b5d7737cddaadfd9f6fa5a84d6" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TOTO-SW2014-01-Electronic-SoftClose/dp/B0165UFOGS/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=30E9Y1LAN9ZRW&dchild=1&keywords=toto+washlet+a100+elongated+bidet+toilet+seat&qid=1613589664&sprefix=toto+washlet+a100%2Caps%2C167&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUFBR1FMUTdJR1hXNUEmZW5jcnlwdGVkSWQ9QTAyNjIwOTkxUE1EWk5CQjg2QTZPJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA0NDc1MzExSk1UMk5CQzJYVUhVJndpZGdldE5hbWU9c3BfYXRmJmFjdGlvbj1jbGlja1JlZGlyZWN0JmRvTm90TG9nQ2xpY2s9dHJ1ZQ==" target="_blank">A100</a> is an entry-level Washlet bidet attachment, but still offers numerous comfort features. It includes a heated seat with temperature control, aerated warm water with a dual action spray, and an attached arm control panel.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>One of the most affordable Toto bidet options, it still lets you adjust the water temperature and pressure settings, and features rear and front cleaning functionality for a feminine wash.</p>
$499
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Nzambi Matee told reporters she was "tired of being on the sidelines," and decided to create a solution of her own for commercial plastic waste. Gjenge Makers Ltd.
Nzambi Matee is an entrepreneur with an incredible goal -- to turn plastic destined for the landfill into sustainable, strong building material. Her company, Gjenge Makers, uses the plastic waste of commercial facilities to create bricks that can withstand twice the weight threshold of concrete.
<p>Gjenge Makers is based in Nairobi, Kenya, where plastic waste pollution has become a <a href="https://theintercept.com/2020/04/19/africa-plastic-waste-kenya-ethiopia/" target="_blank">severe problem</a>. A <a href="https://lrrd.cipav.org.co/lrrd30/11/clang30182.html" target="_blank">study</a> supported by the <a href="https://www.nema.go.ke/" target="_blank">National Environmental Management Agency</a> (NEMA) found that more than 50% of cattle near urban areas in Kenya had plastic in their stomachs. To combat this issue, the Kenyan government <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/story/kenya-announces-breakthrough-ban-plastic-bags" target="_blank">outlawed the use</a> of plastic bags in 2017, and imposed a ban on all single-use plastic in protected natural areas last year. However, these bans only address the issue of consumer single-use plastic. Commercial waste is still a deep-seated <a href="https://www.rd.com/article/kenya-plastic-bag-ban/" target="_blank">problem</a> within the country.</p><p>Nzambi Matee <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-kenya-environment-recycling/kenyan-recycles-plastic-waste-into-bricks-stronger-than-concrete-idUSKBN2A211N" target="_blank">told reporters</a> she was "tired of being on the sidelines," and decided to create a solution of her own for commercial plastic waste. With a career in materials engineering, she was able to design a brick made of recycled plastic and sand, compressed and heated to create a strong and sustainable alternative to concrete. The fibrous structure of the plastic makes it not only more lightweight but also less brittle than concrete. </p>
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="30defee8576f58ba0b3d8996ba9a55ce"><iframe lazy-loadable="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QbZKP4UAtL8?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span><p>"Our product is almost five to seven times stronger than concrete," Matee <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-kenya-environment-recycling/kenyan-recycles-plastic-waste-into-bricks-stronger-than-concrete-idUSKBN2A211N" target="_blank">told Reuters</a> about the current line of Gjenge Makers pavers and bricks. While she purchases some plastic from recycling companies, she also receives free shipments of plastic waste from local packaging factories. Currently, the Gjenge Makers factory can produce up to 1,500 bricks each day, according to <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-kenya-environment-recycling/kenyan-recycles-plastic-waste-into-bricks-stronger-than-concrete-idUSKBN2A211N" target="_blank">Reuters</a>. </p>
<p>The company offers pavers for residential and commercial uses. The heavy-duty 60 mm paver is strong enough to be used for parking lots and roads, while the 30 mm light-duty paver can be used for household patios and walkways. The light-duty paver is twice the strength of concrete and comes in a variety of colors.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2OTI5My9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MzY4NTc1MH0.MzS3hZtGuJNCfLtQCS53LQuPFy3LyczHVyWOCJsHcXc/img.jpg?width=980" id="bdcbe" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="d090f0615b8f45eb014f02b5e049667c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1920" data-height="1000" />
Gjenge Makers Ltd.
<p>The factory is only in its beginning stages, but it has already <a href="https://www.reuters.com/article/us-kenya-environment-recycling/kenyan-recycles-plastic-waste-into-bricks-stronger-than-concrete-idUSKBN2A211N">recycled 20 tons</a> of plastic since 2017 and created 120 jobs in Nairobi. In addition, Gjenge bricks are also one of the more affordable options on the market. They cost approximately $7.70 per square meter, as opposed to <a href="https://www.remodelingcalculator.org/concrete-calculator/" target="_blank">$98 per square yard</a> for concrete produced in the U.S.</p> <p>However, it hasn't been an easy road. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QbZKP4UAtL8&feature=emb_title" target="_blank">Matee says</a> about the founding of her company, "I jumped in, off a cliff without even a parachute. I was building it as I was falling down. But isn't that how great things are done?" </p> <p>With entrepreneurs like Matee, there is a beacon of hope for the worldwide plastic pollution crisis. To learn more about Gjenge Makers process and impact, you can visit their <a href="https://gjenge.co.ke/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">website</a> or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCH7ahGR28JP4Gy47CGhCZTg/featured" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">YouTube channel</a>. Or, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/stop-plastic-pollution-2649324134.html">read this</a> to learn more about ways you can help fight against plastic pollution in your community. </p>From Your Site Articles
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Omigo
Not only can bidets help you enhance your personal hygiene, but they also provide a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Omigo offers a number of high-end bidet seats and attachments. In this review, we'll take a look at the company as a whole, then highlight some of the individual products they offer.
<h2>Omigo overview<br/></h2><p>The Omigo founders had never spent too much time thinking about bidets, until they encountered a bidet in an upscale apartment complex. They were converted to the belief that washing is significantly more comfortable and hygienic than using toilet tissue.</p><p>Today, the company's mission is to change the way Americans think about bidets. They do that in a couple of ways, and the first is pretty simple: They offer high-end, luxurious bidets that create a comfortable experience every single time. Omigo makes top-of-the-line bidets with features like nightlights, deodorizers, and warm air dryers.</p><h3>Omigo's environmental stance</h3><p>Omigo is an evangelist for eco-friendly bathroom habits, and will be the first to tell you that bidets help you minimize <a data-linked-post="2629612402" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/forests-tissue-toilet-paper-sustainability-2629612402.html" target="_blank">toilet paper waste</a> while also cutting back on water and electricity usage. According to <a href="https://myomigo.com/pages/environmental" target="_blank">Omigo</a>, the 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper used in the U.S. each year requires 15 million trees, 473 billion gallons of water, and 17.3 terawatts of electricity. Similar to other bidet brands like <a data-linked-post="2650625731" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tushy-bidet-review-2650625731.html" target="_blank">Tushy</a> and <a data-linked-post="2650627078" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/toto-bidet-reviews-2650627078.html" target="_blank">Toto</a>, Omigo believes that bidets offer an easy way to tangibly reduce our impact on the environment, while also increasing our comfort and cleanliness.</p><h2>Omigo bidets</h2><p>Omigo offers a number of bidet options, which fall into two basic categories: electric bidet seats and bidet attachments.</p><p>What's the difference between these two? A bidet seat will actually replace your current toilet seat entirely, with all of its features and controls attached.. A bidet attachment, on the other hand, fits onto your existing toilet seat. Note that both options are made to be fairly easy to install, without the need to call a plumber or do any complicated electrical wiring.</p><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p>
Omigo Luxury Bidet Toilet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NjIxMi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNTc5Njc1Mn0.vwufmO5G99LDov4gZOikQEr2jmSjhSCG-FjuoJUAXrs/img.png?width=980" id="52fc7" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0b9a91171c6e1fb5bcca5ad40e365b12" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo
<p><a href="https://myomigo.com/products/omigo" target="_blank">Omigo's flagship product</a> is its premium bidet toilet seat. It includes a wide variety of features designed to enhance your comfort and hygiene. While it does come with a high price tag, the Omigo Luxury Bidet seat offers a ton of ways for you to customize the nearly every feature.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This a top-of-the-line bidet. With everything from an adjustable heated seat and massaging nozzle oscillation to its warm air dryer and ambient night light, the Omigo bidet toilet seat is one of the most comfortable ways to reduce your toilet paper use.</p>
$649
<p><strong></strong><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>Separate rear and front wash positions, and a total of seven nozzle settings.</li><li>An electric heated seat and warm air dryer keeps you comfy in any season.</li><li>Multiple customization settings, including for water temperature and pressure.</li><li>Carbon filter deodorizer and an endless warm stream of water.d</li><li>Comes with a 90-day trial period, a 3-year warranty.</li></ul>
Omigo SL
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NjIxOS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMzU5MzUwMn0.5WCMTDR5i5__wALAv5YG0o_UFnylYfaZBDnCQdMOOWw/img.png?width=980" id="4be9d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="c40070ce8ca9f5d7d15e2187b929615e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo SL
<p>The <a href="https://myomigo.com/products/omigo-sl" target="_blank">Omigo SL</a> is a slightly less advanced toilet seat option, but still includes a number of advanced features. If you want a luxury experience for a slightly lower price point, this may be the best bidet for you.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This model includes many of the core features of the Luxury bidet, minus a few extras like the deodorizer and air drying, for a lower price. It still provides self-cleaning rear and front spray nozzles for a feminine wash with heated water.</p>
$449
<p><strong></strong><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>With both rear and front wash abilities, and a total of seven nozzle positions and three spray widths.</li><li>The system is completely self-cleaning.</li><li>It comes with a heated seat and a wireless remote control.</li><li>Built-in LED night light</li><li>Comes with the same 90-day, stress-free trial period, and a 1-year warranty.</li></ul>
Omigo GS
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NjIyMy9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYyNjUzNDQ0OX0.6r0iTKeHG6llIewyCpF7RgC7MSgYhhS81sUIjx2uVjw/img.png?width=980" id="aedb4" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="ff01c151ff039b7c3673c90a0187e2cf" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo GS
<p>The <a href="https://myomigo.com/products/omigo-gs" target="_blank">Omigo GS</a> is the most basic, budget-friendly Omigo toilet seat bidet. It still provides enhanced bidet features compared to some other brands like Tushy or Kohler, but comes at a much more affordable price point.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The Omigo GS offers a more simple, straight-forward product than their other toilet seat bidets, but retains the essential elements to provide a comfortable clean.</p>
$329
<p><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>Front and rear wash settings, including five nozzle positions and five water pressure settings.</li><li>Self-cleaning, stainless steel nozzle.</li><li>You can choose between strong, oscillating, and pulse sprays.</li><li>Soft closing lid and seat.</li></ul>
Omigo Element
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NjIyNi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODA0NzUyMX0.cjVywCPltwDbFS2z_PabuU_NH7j_dqAs_Jz78ku-pc0/img.png?width=980" id="c1eba" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="b289552081da14657d2b76f30c3de5c3" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo Element
<p>In addition to their bidet seats, Omigo also offers a couple of bidet attachments. The <a href="https://myomigo.com/products/element" target="_blank">Element</a> is a value-priced, non-electric bidet add-on that installs onto your current toilet seat.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> The Element from Omigo makes it easy to add a cold water bidet to your existing toilet. With front and rear nozzles, a quick DIY installation process, and easy to adjust pressure control, this is the most cost-effective option from Omigo.</p>
$89
<p><strong></strong><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>The Element offers both rear and front washes.</li><li>The nozzles are covered and self-cleaning.</li><li>You do not need any electricity.</li><li>Very affordable price.</li><li>Comes with a 90-day trial period.</li></ul>
Omigo Element+
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NjIzMi9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY1MTU0Njg0M30.JzOv8e1Q1y_olAunDisHQN0GMgr3vrQQpwBRffUUpz0/img.png?width=980" id="87ed2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="42c8b1c8573b9feaad3bcc7a22e95a8e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo Element+
<p>The <a href="https://myomigo.com/products/element-plus" target="_blank">Element+</a> is a slightly fancier, more feature-rich version of Omigo's basic bidet attachment. It's still non-electric but has some significant perks, including a hot water connection.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> This Omigo bidet attachment is still much more affordable than their Luxury bidet seat, but it includes features like adjustable temperature settings that let you customize it to your personal preferences.</p>
$109
<p><strong></strong><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>It comes with both rear and front washes.</li><li>You can adjust the pressure and temperature.</li><li>The Element+ offers hot dual temperature nozzles, as long as it can connect to your bathroom sink's warm water line.</li><li>Though slightly more complicated than the basic Element, it's still designed to be a quick and easy installation.</li></ul>
<h2>Shopping for a New Bidet</h2><p>As you shop for a new bidet, there are plenty of factors to keep in mind. Do you want a seat, or just an attachment? Do you prefer an electrical model, or non-electric? And what about features like self-cleaning functions, remote controls, and heated seats?</p><p>One of the great things about Omigo is that their product line lets you choose the best features in your price range. You choose between their Luxury Bidet Toilet Seat for maximum comfort, or opt for one of their Element bidet attachments for the functionality without all of the advanced features. </p><p>We specifically like that all of Omigo's products include self-cleaning nozzles with front and rear washes. Plus, no matter which option you choose, you'll be making a good choice for the environment by reducing your toilet paper use.</p><p>It's easy to recommend Omigo's product line. Spend some time researching the options and find the one that's best-suited for you.</p><p><em><strong>Josh Hurst </strong></em><em>is a journalist, critic, and essayist. He lives in Knoxville, TN, with his wife and three sons. His writing on natural health, nutrition, and supplements has appeared in Health, Shape, and Remedy Review.</em></p>
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hellotushy
Bidets have really gained in popularity in recent years as more and more people seek to minimize their ecological footprint at home. Along with Omigo and Toto, Tushy is one of the leading names in bidet design, offering practical, affordable, non-electric bidets that works with your existing toilet seat. See why Tushy remains a best-selling brand in our review below.
<h2>Tushy overview<br></h2><p>Tushy has been around since 2015. A group of self-described "toilet crusaders," the company has played a huge role in increasing the popularity of the bidet. They are bidet evangelists whose seemingly sincere passion for personal hygiene and reducing the environmental impact of traditional <a data-linked-post="2629612402" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/forests-tissue-toilet-paper-sustainability-2629612402.html" target="_blank">toilet paper</a> extends into their very-fine products, as well as their amusingly direct ad campaigns.</p><p>Tushy is a company with a real commitment to their eco-friendly approach, and specifically the reduction of paper waste. Indeed, it's worth noting that using a bidet like Tushy's helps you cut down on your TP use, and also helps you <a data-linked-post="2645724350" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/water-crisis-5-lessons-2645724350.html" target="_blank">conserve water</a>. That's because, <a href="https://hellotushy.com/pages/about-us" target="_blank">according to Tushy</a>, it takes 37 and 1/2 gallons of water to create even a single roll of toilet paper. Comparatively, a Tushy bidet attachment uses around 1.3 gallons of water per week, or roughly 1/8 of a gallon per use. Tushy also offers products like bamboo toilet paper and the Tushy Travel bidet.</p><p>The company is dedicated to giving back, as a portion of all Tushy profits go to build clean community toilets for the urban and rural poor in India through <a href="https://hellotushy.com/pages/give-back-program-with-samagra" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Samagra Sanitation</a>.</p><p>The bottom line is that Tushy's products deliver what they promise, not just in terms of personal cleanliness, but also in terms of sustainability.</p><h2>Tushy bidets</h2><p>Tushy offers two different bidet toilet attachments, the Tushy Classic 3.0 and the Tushy Spa 3.0. Here is a breakdown of the details on both.</p><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p>
Tushy Classic 3.0
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDEzOC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxODM3NTQwOH0.Ev3RrUsQtas0xNYNIrCXKfzrT_HLJ5gU490nfAQjaLQ/img.png?width=980" id="089bb" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="e276a7a6ef6de932ac426f2ca1daebce" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" />hellotushy Classic
<p>The <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TUSHY-Classic-Bidet-Toilet-Attachment/dp/B08VRQNH4Z/ref=sr_1_5?crid=2FJPU0B3DVNJF&dchild=1&keywords=tushy%2Bbidet%2Bfor%2Btoilet&qid=1613501984&sprefix=tushy%2Bbidet%2Caps%2C182&sr=8-5&th=1" target="_blank">Tushy Classic 3.0</a> is designed to offer an affordable, basic bidet. It connects to your toilet's clean tap water water supply and then uses a stream of water to help you feel cleaner. The simple design offers compatibility with most standard toilets.</p><p>Why buy: If you're interested in trying a bidet, but don't want to invest hundreds of dollars, the Tushy Classic bidet is a great option, as it retails for just $99. While this bidet does use cold water, it can definitely help you reduce your use of rolls of toilet paper while also enjoying better personal hygiene.</p>
$99
<p><strong>Features:</strong><br></p><ul><li>There are water pressure and angle controls for the positioning of the nozzle, meaning you can configure the water spray of your Tushy bidet to your comfort.</li><li>The Tushy Classic comes with everything you need for a DIY install in under 10 minutes. There's no advanced plumbing or electrical work required.</li><li>The nozzle has an automatic self-cleaning function, ensuring hygiene and sanitation even after repeat uses.</li><li>The Tushy bidet comes with a 60-day, risk-free guarantee.</li><li>Its reputation is bolstered by more than 7,500 five-star reviews from happy customers.</li></ul>
Tushy Spa 3.0
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2NTg5NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzOTc0NjMwM30.imPV58G1XeR3uTjR_bkNnWxVa9n5AhQy9CzXbfROm0Y/img.png?width=980" id="9acbd" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6977e1c86fbccdce0b36099043b297df" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />hellotushy
<p>The <a href="https://hellotushy.com/products/warm-water-bidet-tushy-spa" target="_blank">Tushy Spa 3.0</a> offers many of the same features and benefits as the Classic model. But in addition to letting you control the nozzle angle and water pressure, the Tushy Spa also lets you determine your desired water temperature. This is the option to choose if you want the added comfort of warm water.</p><p>Why buy: The Tushy Spa 3.0 bidet gives you all of the environmental and hygienic benefits of the Classic model, but with the added comfort of warm and hot water. While it is still a relatively low-tech design, this bidet can help you reduce paper waste and water usage at an affordable price.</p>
$119
<p><strong>Features:</strong></p><ul><li>A warm water connection and temperature control.</li><li>Fast and easy installation with no advanced plumbing or electrical skills required.</li><li>An automatic self-cleaning nozzle to provide hygiene and convenience.</li><li>A 60-day, risk-free guarantee.</li><li>Tons and tons of online reviews testifying to its excellence.</li></ul>
<h2>Tushy bidet pros and cons</h2><p>Here are some of the pros and cons to consider when shopping for a Tushy bidet.</p><h3>Pros</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Both models are incredibly quick and easy to install, with detailed online instructions if you need them.</li><li>Tushy is a company with a great commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Plus, every bidet sold helps to support clean community toilets for impoverished communities in India.</li><li>Both the Classic and Spa models offer basic bidet functions to help keep you clean while also reducing your use of toilet paper and water.</li><li>Since Tushy bidets are non-electric, they won't use any additional energy.</li><li>Tushy products are very affordable, and make a great option for those new to bidets.</li></ul><h3>Cons</h3><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Only the more expensive option offers temperature controls.</li><li>Neither bidet comes with a dual nozzle.</li><li>Lack of extra comfort features, like a heated toilet seat, night light, or programmable settings.</li></ul><p>For anyone who's interested in experiencing the benefits of a bidet, the Tushy line is a smart place to begin. Both of their products are reasonably priced, elegantly designed, and earn rave reviews. While they aren't the most feature-rich bidets on the market, they may be the best option for those investing in a bidet for the very first time. You can find the Tushy Classic on <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TUSHY-Classic-Bidet-Toilet-Attachment/dp/B08VS11Z1N?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Amazon</a>, or you can visit <a href="https://hellotushy.com/products/warm-water-bidet-tushy-spa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">hellotushy.com</a> for more information on the Tushy Spa.</p><h2>Additional benefits of using a bidet</h2><p>What are some other reasons to consider trying a bidet at home? Here are a few:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Cleaning with a stream of water can be more thorough, and less irritating to the skin, than using coarse TP.</li><li>Using a bidet is actually more cost-effective, since you won't have to buy as much toilet paper and will use less water each month.</li><li>Bidets can help women avoid UTIs, and are especially hygienic for pregnant women.</li><li>Bidets are highly accessible, especially for those who may struggle with physical mobility issues.</li><li>Getting a bidet can also be helpful in teaching your kids to practice good hygiene.</li></ul><p>These are just a few of the main reasons to contemplate adding a bidet to your bathroom, and Tushy should definitely be one of the top brands on your radar.</p><p><em><strong>Josh Hurst</strong> </em><em>is a journalist, critic, and essayist. He lives in Knoxville, TN, with his wife and three sons. His writing on natural health, nutrition, and supplements has appeared in Health, Shape, and Remedy Review.</em></p>
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When it comes to finding new shoes to fill your closet, finding something stylish and comfortable is likely the main goal. But shouldn't their impact on the earth matter just as much? Here is a roundup of the best eco-friendly and environmentally-conscious shoes.
<h2>Our picks for top eco-friendly shoes</h2><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Best Recycled Plastic Shoe - <a href="https://shareasale.com/r.cfm?b=1219692&u=2021263&m=81418&urllink=www%2Esuavshoes%2Ecom%2F&afftrack=" target="_blank">SUAVS</a></li><li>Best Zero-Waste Shoe - <a href="https://www.on-running.com/en-us" target="_blank">On Running</a></li><li>Best Sustainable Materials - <a href="https://cariuma.com/products/oca-high-suede-all-camel-sneaker-women" target="_blank">Cariuma</a></li><li>Best Carbon Neutral Shoe - <a href="https://www.allbirds.com/products/womens-tree-dashers-geyser" target="_blank">Allbirds</a></li><li>Best Clean-Energy Production - <a href="https://www.womsh.com/en_gb/woman-wave-vegan_wave_white_rose-vw201836.html" target="_blank">Womsh</a></li><li>Best Vegan Shoe - <a href="https://beyond-skin.com/vegan-shoes/nova-cognac-faux-leather-vegan-knee-high-boots/" target="_blank">Beyond Skin</a></li></ul><p>While flipping over a pair of shoes as you shop can tell you about the size of their literal footprint, discovering their <a data-linked-post="2615358557" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/reduce-your-carbon-footprint-2615358557.html" target="_blank">carbon footprint</a> isn't always as easy. That's because transparency, for many brands, remains less of a priority. </p><p>As a result, shoppers don't always have the clearest vision of how some shoe companies operate—including how and where they source their materials, and who actually puts them together. It's important to understand that the very practices that led to the mass production of so many classic brands are less than stellar for the environment and the people that actually make them.</p><h2>How we chose the best eco-friendly shoes</h2><p>To create our list of the best eco-friendly shoes, we compared brands on a number of factors. These included:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li><strong>Sustainable materials</strong> - Does the brand use recycled or sustainable materials to make their shoes? We looked for brands that utilize <a data-linked-post="2641484083" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/how-to-shop-sustainably-2641484083.html" target="_blank">post-consumer recycled materials</a>, like fibers from plastic water bottles or recycled paper, in their shoes and packaging. We also considered their sourcing of naturally-derived materials, like sugar cane, castor beans, cork, and wool.</li><li><strong>Transparency</strong> - How much does the brand tell you about its manufacturing process and materials? We checked out each brand's website to confirm their commitment to the environment and to make sure they weren't just green-washing their products.</li><li><strong>Ethical standards</strong> - Where does the brand manufacture their shoes and do they ensure fair labor practices? In addition to the environmental impact of a brand's shoes, we also looked at how they treat their people. We specifically looked for brand transparency and commitments around creating healthy and safe working conditions in factories, and that employees earn fair wages, as well as <a href="https://bcorporation.net/" target="_blank">B-Corp certification</a>.</li><li><strong>Giving back</strong> - We wanted to prioritize brands that do more than just make money. We looked for eco-friendly shoe brands that partnered with non-profits to give back, including projects like <a href="https://soles4souls.org/" target="_blank">Soles4Souls</a>, LifeWorks, and reforestation initiatives.</li></ul><p>Discover five of our favorite eco-friendly shoe brands that you simply can't go wrong with. Whether you're in need of new sneakers, boots, flats, or heels, they've got you covered.</p>
<h2>Why choose eco-friendly shoes and products?</h2><p>Eco-conscious and eco-friendly are used to describe products made with the earth in mind. In order to create eco-conscious products, a company must commit to <a href="https://www.epa.gov/sustainability/sustainable-manufacturing#:~:text=Sustainable%20manufacturing%20is%20the%20creation,employee%2C%20community%20and%20product%20safety." target="_blank">sustainable manufacturing practices</a>, the use of sustainable materials, and how much energy is used to create each product. This includes a commitment to use less water and fewer (or, better yet, zero) chemicals in production, along with paying mind to the amount of carbon emissions created as a result of production, the types of fibers that are used, and the quality of life offered to the workers creating the items. In other words, creating eco-friendly items—shoes, included—is a more involved process than is used for most mass-produced goods. </p><p>As a result, many earth-friendly brands are marked at a higher price due to the higher level of care dedicated to bringing them to life. The beauty is, however, when more care is devoted to the production process, the higher the quality ends up being. So, while a higher price tag may make you wince, knowing that the items will last much longer and will make less of an impact on the environment is definitely worth it.</p><p><em><strong>Rebecca R. Norris </strong>is a writer in the DC metro area. She covers a number of topics in the sustainable beauty, wellness, and style industries. A graduate of George Mason University, th</em><em>e Virginia native is a lover of lists, Stevie Nicks, dark chocolate Sprinkles cupcakes, and the Oxford comma.</em></p>
SUAVS - The Zilker
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTUzNi9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNzc2NDU3OX0.ysvHiLg7K8osoJYWaOXXGVnk57cnr4zhx4z2ZqbxRrA/img.jpg?width=980" id="1b9ba" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5b84f1038be6813468d06b9b1ebaac25" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />SUAVS
<p>SUAVS makes comfortable, breathable, and sustainable shoes with uppers made of post-consumer recycled water bottles. They put the environment first and use only the safest materials that are better for the earth and you. SUAVS makes a point to give back and donates all extra footwear to organizations such as LifeWorks. </p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> Planning a vacation? Look no further. SUAVS shoes are known for being lightweight and flexible, allowing for easy packing and all-day wear. Their shoes have been featured in Buzzfeed, Conde Nast, Business Insider, PRNewsWire, and more for being a travel-friendly shoe.</p>
$95
On Running - Cyclon
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTU0MS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MDg1ODE2NH0.atxan9QOGtAEo0LoI-B7Mgrkjb-nl50ixW6VhO3FyIg/img.jpg?width=980" id="16489" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="40a7e2c780ae4d5872dadae9c9786bc2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />On Running
<p>Switzerland-based shoe brand On Running is beloved for its performance-based shoes that offer optimal performance without harming the earth in the process. The brand prides itself on sustainability, ethical sourcing, and transparency. They've even partnered with the <a href="https://sciencebasedtargets.org/" target="_blank">ScienceBasedTargets</a> initiative to ensure they lower their emissions to a level that will support the limiting of average global temperature raising to 1.5°C (34.7°F) above pre-industrial levels.</p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The <a href="https://www.on-running.com/en-us/cyclon" target="_blank">Cyclon</a> is a revolutionary zero-waste shoe. The sleek shoe is made with sustainable production efforts from castor beans and it's fully recyclable. The caveat? You can't own them. Instead, they're available via subscription to ensure that you recycle them back to the brand. By creating this production process, the brand is able to capitalize on <a href="https://www.on-running.com/en-us/articles/what-is-circularity" target="_blank">circularity</a>, effectively keeping materials out of landfills.
$29
Cariuma - OCA High All Camel Suede
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTU0NS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3Mzc0NDIwM30.xFJuf7Mn4l66lGUkiixSBjjthZ4tNG_1sXHQVRX7WKM/img.jpg?width=980" id="0c72c" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7cad41945d65f24fb25f95f1c34ed2db" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Cariuma
<p>If you're a sucker for smooth-as-butter leather sneakers, Cariuma is the choice for you. Namely, the brand's <a href="https://cariuma.com/collections/the-oca-high-for-women/products/oca-high-off-white-leather-sneaker-women" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">OCA High Off-White Premium Leather high-top sneakers</a>. Of course, the Rio de Janeiro-based shoe brand offers more than just leather, they sell canvas and suede silhouettes, too. The company is also committed to <a href="https://cariuma.com/pages/about-us-sustainability" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">sustainability</a>, planting two trees in the Brazilian rainforest for every pair of shoes sold.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>All of the materials used in Cariuma's shoe-making process are sourced sustainably and responsibly, from the leather and suede uppers and recycled plastic used in the brand's shoelaces, labels, and laces to the Bluesign-certified dye chemicals (which are non-harmful) and recyclable packaging. As a result of their rigorous eco-conscious efforts, the brand has earned seven sustainability certifications.</p>
$129
Allbirds - Women's Tree Dashers
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTU0Ni9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY3MDU3MjQ3NX0.qbpCFm6TF4z5lNGXoo-Q4YsjnmmfqoeUscPeWl6HZI0/img.jpg?width=980" id="b624a" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="0cf68566190c11e0f211ddfdfb995546" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Allbirds
<p>Known as Silicon Valley's most-beloved shoe, Allbirds are renowned for their versatile wool runners that are minimalist, sustainably-sourced, and cozy as can be. The brand is entirely <a href="https://www.allbirds.com/pages/sustainability" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">carbon neutral</a>. This means that they measure their carbon emissions each year, reduce their impact by using recycled materials, and offset whatever's left over by taxing themselves and putting that money toward projects that neutralize their footprint.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>These Tree Runners are made from FSC-certified eucalyptus trees, a castor bean insole, and a carbon-negative sugarcane midsole. While Allbirds shoes end up being carbon neutral, the company does provide their initial carbon footprint score. These running shoes come in at 9.0 kg CO2e.</p>
$125
Womsh - Vegan Wave White Rose
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTU0Ny9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0NzkyOTgxMn0.eycdIsrB5VV6rhmVKN-DutPFFBLfk-iKiE8dRcEWnYU/img.jpg?width=980" id="013c6" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="80e801d7c2c473e8a700dcc5cbd98baa" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Womsh
<p>Sustainability meets trendy fashion with Italian shoe brand Womsh (short for Word of Mouth Shoes). The celebrity-favorite sneakers are known for their chunky silhouettes overlaid with bold designs and text. Beyond their truly picture-worthy style, the shoes are created with sustainability at the helm.</p><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>In addition to creating a fully vegan collection, as well as shoes that are <a href="https://www.womsh.com/en_us/action/recycling-76.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fully recyclable</a>, and producing their shoes in factories that use 90 percent <a href="http://v" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">clean energy</a>, Womsh has teamed up with <a href="https://www.womsh.com/en_us/action/offsetting_co2_emissions-75.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">LifeGate</a> to offset its carbon emissions. They do so by planting trees in areas that have been deforested. Since 2014, they've planted and protected over 118,403 square feet of forest <em>per year</em>. Talk about impact.</p>
$299
Beyond Skin Nova Cognac Faux Leather Vegan Knee High Boots
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0OTU0OS9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMjEyNDM2Mn0.giuXk-o3DvmK9ExOU0oncr6Rk93AP9_i6lmctODSbgQ/img.jpg?width=980" id="b0736" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="503f7946b3ea95a685b5ba21f7b73d95" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Beyond Skin
<p>Sneakers aren't the only option when it comes to eco-friendly shoes. Since its inception in 2001, Beyond Skin has been committed to providing the world with luxury vegan footwear in the form of vintage-inspired sandals, mules, loafers, heels, boots, and more. All of the silhouettes are designed in England and brought to life in Spain using luxury Italian fabrics. By creating their products locally—as opposed to sourcing all over the world—they're able to reduce their carbon footprint. What's more, they use <a href="https://beyond-skin.com/about-us/sustainability.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recycled materials</a> in many of their designs, which makes them even more eco-friendly.</p><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> In addition to paying mind to the materials used, Beyond Skin works very closely with their factories in Spain to ensure their workers are never exploited in the process of production. It is their mission to stand far apart from fast fashion, offering silhouettes that can withstand the test of time—both in terms of wear and classic styles—and practices that benefit the earth and its people.</p>
$460
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TAZO Tree Corps
At the beginning of quarantine, the nine-time Grammy nominee, SZA, was releasing new songs because she was "bored" and "losing my mind," she told BAZAAR.com. But new music wasn't the only endeavor the singer-songwriter had underway.
<p>On Wednesday, SZA along with the nonprofit organization <a href="https://www.americanforests.org/" target="_blank">American Forests</a> and the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/tv/CLZZO5LJQ76/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link" target="_blank">TAZO</a> tea company announced their partnership to fight for <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/environmental-justice">climate justice</a>, according to <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tazo-joins-the-fight-for-climate-justice-in-partnership-with-sza-and-american-forests-301229914.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">a press release</a>. Together they are launching the TAZO Tree Corps, a paid workforce that will plant trees in disadvantaged neighborhoods and underprivileged communities of color, BAZAAR.com reported.</p>
<span style="display:block;position:relative;padding-top:56.25%;" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="f4207a606fe3200844cdd2acd0968dc7"><iframe lazy-loadable="true" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YUeOq4RKJZk?rel=0" width="100%" height="auto" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;width:100%;height:100%;"></iframe></span><p>"I can't tell you how many children I've met in the urban community, from all different colors of Black and Brown, that really just are not comfortable being in nature," the 30-year-old told BAZAAR.com, "I think the biggest takeaway from this is that quality of life and racism are so directly connected."</p>
<p>The TAZO Tree Corps will hire 25 fellows who will be trained in climate justice, tree planting and maintenance. The fellows will be locally hired from communities in Richmond, Virginia; Minneapolis; the Bronx; San Francisco and Detroit, <a href="https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sza-tazo-climate-justice_n_602c44c8c5b62767c0aa9dbc" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">HuffPost reported</a>, specifically "where historical discriminating zoning practices have left many low-income communities and communities of color with less green space," according to <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tazo-joins-the-fight-for-climate-justice-in-partnership-with-sza-and-american-forests-301229914.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a statement</a>. </p>
<p>But the tree planting initiative recognizes more than just the value green spaces add to urban communities. It also recognizes "that environmental racism and classic racism are directly connected, and it's probably one of the worst aspects of inequality," SZA told BAZAAR.com. </p>
<p>While trees in the U.S. absorb 17.4 million tons of air pollution, improving air and water quality, communities most impacted by pollution carry a disproportionate burden from the <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/climate-crisis">climate crisis</a> because they are situated near chemical treatment plants, highways or heavy polluters, according to <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tazo-joins-the-fight-for-climate-justice-in-partnership-with-sza-and-american-forests-301229914.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a statement</a>. </p><p>"Trees do more than beautify a neighborhood – they're life-and-death infrastructure for health equity and climate justice," Jad Daley, president and CEO of American Forests said in a <a href="https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/tazo-joins-the-fight-for-climate-justice-in-partnership-with-sza-and-american-forests-301229914.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">statement</a>. </p>
<p>The climate problem is increasingly being recognized as a racial justice problem. For example, <a href="https://www.pnas.org/content/116/13/6001" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a study</a> published in 2019 found that on average, Black and Hispanic communities were burdened by a disproportionate amount of air pollution than whites. Planting trees can alleviate some of the burdens. But SZA and her partners are not the first ones to introduce tree-planting initiatives in marginalized communities.</p>
<p>In 2014 a local environmental non-profit organization, The Greening of Detroit, partnered with the city to plant 1,000 to 5,000 new trees each year, working in neighborhoods in Detroit with painful memories of <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/environmental-racism">environmental racism</a>. When the city and organization sought support from these neighborhoods, they "met stiff resistance: Roughly a quarter of the 7,500 residents they approached declined offers to have new trees planted in front of their homes," <a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2019-01-11/why-detroiters-didn-t-trust-city-tree-planting-efforts" target="_blank">Bloomberg CityLab reported</a>.</p><p>To better understand why some residents resisted the trees even if they knew the benefits they could have in their neighborhoods, researchers reached out to residents. Following the 1967 race rebellion, some residents remembered the city of Detriot cutting down elm trees in their neighborhoods and using helicopters to spray the toxic DDT from above to better "surveil their neighborhoods," Bloomberg CityLab reported. These memories left them wary of plans to plant the trees back.</p><p>"It's not that they didn't trust the trees; they didn't trust the city," Bloomberg CityLab reported. Some of this mistrust also came from the fact that these tree-planting groups were organized by outsiders of their neighborhoods, coming from other parts of Detroit, the University of Vermont wrote in a <a href="https://www.uvm.edu/gund/news/why-people-reject-city-trees" target="_blank">statement</a>.</p><p>Lessons learned from the 2014 project, may be informing the TAZO Tree Corps, which plans to hire locals that are directly and disproportionately affected by environmental racism.</p><p>"There's something about them creating job opportunity in the disproportionately affected communities that makes me very attracted to the whole situation," SZA told BAZAAR.com. By locally employing people to plant trees "you're actually insourcing, rather than outsourcing, from the direct community, then creating value," she added.</p><p><em>Apply to be a part of the TAZO Tree Corps <a href="https://www.tazo.com/us/en/treecorps.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.</em></p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vbWVkaWEucmJsLm1zL2ltYWdlP3U9JTJGZmlsZXMlMkYyMDIxJTJGMDIlMkZtNDlvdmk0Ni0xOTIwLTE2MTM1NzgzMTQtY29tcHJlc3NlZC5qcGcmaG89aHR0cHMlM0ElMkYlMkZzdGF0aWMuYmlsbGJvYXJkLmNvbSZzPTQ5NCZoPWIwOGYyMDJkMTBhZjU4ZTlmNGNjOTBlM2JlNWVkODkxYzZmMjk1Nzc0NjdkNzY3NTcxNDE5NTJlMzYzNmVjMzAmc2l6ZT05ODB4JmM9OTM5NzAzMDE0IiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzOTU2MTQ1NH0.N6P37oVugiDd4XmkboFzgJhcIPVOkGcNnFqVTEGwtp8/img.jpg" id="54620" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="6827e837742871a3f211ca5b4da23144" />
Billboard caught up with SZA to discuss her role with TAZO Tree Corps, maintaining her creative balance, positive affirmations, and the making of "Good Days."
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Switching en masse to a plant-based diet is essential to protect wildlife habitats and prevent the loss of numerous species, a new report concludes. Milan Krasula / iStock / Getty Images Plus
By Johnny Wood
Switching en masse to a plant-based diet is essential to protect wildlife habitats and prevent the loss of numerous species currently facing extinction, according to a new report.
<p>At the root of the problem is cheap food. While cut-priced comestibles may seem like a good thing, especially for low-income households, market pressure to continually reduce food production costs forces many farmers to adopt unsustainable, intensive methods that harm the land and overuse valuable resources like energy, land and water.</p><p>The <a href="https://www.chathamhouse.org/2021/02/food-system-impacts-biodiversity-loss" target="_blank">study by researchers at UK think tank Chatham House</a>, supported by the United Nations (UN) Environment Programme, notes that the race to lower prices increases food waste and degrades soils and ecosystems, making available land less productive.</p>
<p>As more forests and wild lands are cleared to grow crops and raise livestock, the feeding, breeding and living habitats of numerous species also disappear. Unless we change what we eat and how it is produced, the report says, the <a href="https://www.unep.org/news-and-stories/press-release/our-global-food-system-primary-driver-biodiversity-loss" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">planet's ability to support humans</a> could come under threat.</p>
<div id="94e38" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="daa6e9aba5d11504ec23fb70522e6636"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet twitter-custom-tweet" data-twitter-tweet-id="1358824915512692737" data-partner="rebelmouse"><div style="margin:1em 0">New @UNEP, @ChathamHouse & @ciwf report on #food systems impacts on #biodiversity loss proposes 3 actions… https://t.co/T80QkoPdak</div> — ipbes (@ipbes)<a href="https://twitter.com/IPBES/statuses/1358824915512692737">1612804080.0</a></blockquote></div>
<h3>Gut Instinct</h3><p>During the past half century, conversion of natural wild land for crop production or animal pasture has been the principle cause of habitat and <a href="http://www.ecowatch.com/tag/biodiversity">biodiversity</a> loss, the report, called <em>Food System Impacts on Biodiversity Loss</em>, says. <a href="https://www.chathamhouse.org/2021/02/food-system-impacts-biodiversity-loss" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Agriculture poses a threat</a> to 24,000 of the 28,000 species documented as at risk of extinction by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).<br><br>But what happens next to the world's endangered <a href="http://www.ecowatch.com/tag/wildlife">wildlife</a> populations rests in human hands, and the rise in popularity of plant-based alternatives to meat and dairy products offers hope for the future.</p>
<p>Rearing crops in place of animals uses land and other scarce resources more efficiently, the report notes. While raising livestock adds to greenhouse gas emissions, switching to plant-based foods would free up grazing land that could be used for other purposes. A global switch to a predominantly plant-based diet would boost dietary health, help reduce food waste and eliminate the need to keep clearing new land for grazing. Switching the global population's diet to plant-based foods, for example, <a href="https://www.weforum.org/videos/scientists-say-plant-based-diets-are-essential-to-save-the-planet" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">would free up 75% of the world's cropland for other uses</a>.<br><br>Alongside changing dietary behavior, the report recommends protecting and setting aside more land for nature, avoiding converting it for agriculture. As well as preserving wildlife habitats from being destroyed, forests and wilded land serve as a natural carbon store absorbing pollution from the atmosphere, which helps counter the impact of the climate crisis.<br><br>Today's high-intensity chemical-reliant farming methods must be replaced by nature-friendly practices that support biodiversity and value <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/sustainability">sustainability</a> over ever lower farm door prices.<br><br>It's important to note that the report is advocating a dramatic reduction in meat intake rather than replacing meat with plant-based foods. And, as the World Bank says, livestock <a href="https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/agriculture/brief/moving-towards-sustainability-the-livestock-sector-and-the-world-bank" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">farming supports the livelihoods</a> and food security of almost 1.3 billion people. The Chatham House report says incentivizing more diverse agriculture could lead to more resilient farmer livelihoods.</p>
<h3>Planting the Seeds of Change</h3><p>Despite the compelling arguments for moving to plant-heavy diets, persuading the global population to abandon its love of meat will be no easy task. Around 80 billion animals are killed for their meat each year, UN figures show.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2MTM3NC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTY5NzA4OX0.azR9yOzQk_VvXHzZmEGfK7z3qHeuCDbMIuvMTWah-vM/img.png?width=980" id="32e03" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="15e045131acf20171ea0de81246fd47c" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1600" data-height="1044" />
<p>In 2018, almost 70 billion chickens, 1.5 billion pigs and more than 300 million cattle were slaughtered to serve our love of meat.<br><br>In general, meat consumption increases as incomes rise – so the richer the country, the more meat is consumed, according to figures from the UN and the World Bank.<br><br>But for some the role of meat is beginning to change as awareness grows of the health benefits of plant-based foods and the impact of business-as-usual farming on the environment.</p>
<img lazy-loadable="true" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY2MTM3NS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2MzUxNDc5OH0.fVJF6CYGqF7hLyyRowomgANGW4FSEAANmaba9LWRk9w/img.png?width=980" id="4e108" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="5eb010d744c747b959c9f69e1ce60d6b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="1538" data-height="710" />
<p>The U.S. plant-based food market was worth more than $5 billion in 2019, up 11% on the previous year and 29% over two years. Sales of plant-based meat substitutes increased by 18% year-on-year.</p><p><a href="https://www.meticulousresearch.com/product/plant-based-food-products-market-5108" target="_blank">Demand for plant-based foods</a> could see annual growth of almost 12%, reaching a market value of more than $74 billion by 2027, according to a Meticulous Research forecast. While plant-based demand is increasing in most global markets, takeup in Asia-Pacific is expected to outstrip other regional markets.</p><p>Changing consumer aspirations and a growing appetite among investors to back plant-based ventures are among the drivers of global plant-based market growth, the research showed. How far, how fast and how much demand for plant-based foods increases in the coming years remains to be seen, but the future of myriad species depends on it happening quick enough.</p>
<p><em>Reposted with permission from <a href="https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/02/plant-based-diet-biodiversity-report/" target="_blank">World Economic Forum</a>.</em></p>From Your Site Articles
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A Coca-Cola bottle pollutes a river in France. Alain Pitton / NurPhoto via Getty Images
In December 2020, a report found Coca-Cola was the top corporate plastic polluter for the third year in a row, meaning its products were found clogging the most places with the largest amounts of plastic pollution.
<p>The company seems to be aiming to clean up its act somewhat this year with the introduction of a 13.2-ounce bottle made with 100-percent <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/recycling" target="_self">recycled</a> PET (rPET) plastic. The company <a href="https://www.coca-colacompany.com/news/packaging-sustainability-in-united-states" target="_blank">announced</a> the new bottle's debut in select U.S. states this February, but environmental organizations said the move was too little, too late.</p><p>"In 1990, <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUaSp-2BN9tnAcI5VSxIezu-2B2tTy0eA3-2FgXcsFJYzvF7FFl7AW5ZknGpqvSvk6gI-2FxjAy2uPYZMRbxXilqRhRRioAXE-2Bn2apOb0rxmFaqHtBQVzqLC9AFOwjLQ75X6O8vFl2lbGZDpmvbi9N-2BtUUeZBDrL4gZEk-2Ffkpglj0YCQt9FJG4ZNu_9DWd1IQpF0pa6moAa2K0USVLPw-2BdyUxYOf6Uxh7iNF2j-2F-2B0i4WsvfzVmvKM60HQTKBTl7-2FdSSDZkDf9HSA47QUmgHfQ3pfCbKBt6d7suISyU8aOtRigGCgCehfchPh0Po7w6ZyKL8uU9BmvEWmf-2B8QxEDc0kD5DE9XFKuqEM472yKOzkkbnIE3DookHKOOo-2BZNFQkQ7wX9pWu-2FO6O5cdwPXUqYqD4PxwInBqFCdbpWS1mBYS6ufaDApOtFiZq6Fcebsa6DfyeyuYm-2Bz-2BF1ebJIzOtIQXnkuptCbDtZ2-2Fe1sHUyY3deIB6BeeCq2itx0EjAlh1xw-2FkrK8lId612hX-2FRfZml7ZvNqtG7jAyLS0-2BL4-3D" target="_blank">Coca-Cola and Pepsi announced plans to sell their products in recycled plastic bottles</a>. The Washington Post quoted Greenpeace as 'unimpressed' at the time, urging the companies to eliminate single-use plastics altogether," Greenpeace USA senior plastics campaigner Kate Melge said in a statement emailed to EcoWatch. "Thirty one years later, companies should not still be boasting about transitioning to recycled content. We remain unimpressed."</p>
<p>The new bottles are the first ever made with 100 percent rPET plastic in the U.S., the company said. They will launch with its Coke-label beverages and Sprite in California, Florida and certain Northeast states this month and spread to other sparkling drinks in the summer.</p><p>In addition to the smaller 13.2-ounce bottles, the company will also launch a traditional 20-ounce 100 percent rPET bottle for Coke brands in California, Texas and New York this month. It's bottled water brand, DASANI, will follow with a 20-ounce rPET bottle in the same three states in March, while Smartwater will launch 20-ounce rPET bottles in New York and California in July. The company will shift all Sprite packaging to clear material, which is easier to recycle, by the end of 2022.</p>
<p>All together, the company said these measures would reduce its use of new plastic in North America by 20 percent compared to 2018 levels. They would also eliminate 10,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. every year, the equivalent of taking 2,120 cars off the road for a year.</p><p>"Challenges around plastic packaging waste and recycling continue to be top of mind for our consumers, customers and our system," Alpa Sutaria, the vice president and general manager for <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/sustainability" target="_self">sustainability</a> at Coca-Cola's North America Operating Unit, said in the company announcement. "Introducing 100% recycled PET bottles is a big proof point of how recycling can help create a circular economy."</p>
<p>The U.S. announcement comes little more than a year after Coca-Cola <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/coca-cola-plastic-pollution-2644896488.html" target="_self">said outright</a> it would not move away from plastic altogether. The company's head of sustainability Bea Perez told reporters at the World Economic Forum in Davos that customers valued the plastic bottles for their light weight and easy resealability.</p><p>"Business won't be in business if we don't accommodate consumers," Perez said at the time.</p><p>Coca-Cola has an overall goal of making 100 percent of its packaging recyclable by 2025, making its bottles with 50 percent recycled material by 2030 and collecting and recycling the equivalent of a bottle or can for every beverage it sells by the same date. Currently, it offers 100 percent rPET bottles in more than 25 markets, and more than 94 percent of its North American packaging is recyclable.</p>
<p>However, environmental organizations have argued that more recycling is not the solution to the plastic pollution crisis. For one thing, <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/recycling-plastic-reality-2615116844.html" target="_self">less than 10 percent</a> of the plastic used in the U.S. is actually recycled, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. And more than half of that is sent abroad, often to poorer countries that struggle to manage it effectively, a <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/world-plastic-waste-leader-us-2648607158.html" target="_self">2020 study based on 2016 data found</a>. Further, a recent investigative series from NPR and PBS's <em>Frontline</em> revealed that oil and gas companies had known since the 1970s that plastic recycling was not possible at scale, but continued to promote it in order to sidestep criticism of their products.</p>
<p>"Selling recycling sold plastic, even if it wasn't true," a former plastic executive told NPR, as EcoWatch <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/plastic-recycling-myth-2647706452.html" target="_self">reported</a> at the time.</p><p>This history has made campaigners skeptical of corporate recycling pushes.</p><p>"Since the 1970s, these consumer goods giants have <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUZWF4KdJRrMe8gKAsZknlq83IiQ3tif74vD2xXz6JwTTt0XGJG9qGMHpxMs4YfUtKj5S-2BfFbubK0A1L5WdaYCFsvY5TyYc8t7QoqMCvPCn04d340n-2Bv39FYEcpvN8nIgog8fROSuWU8OPvdQH6RDFQI-3DLOHp_9DWd1IQpF0pa6moAa2K0USVLPw-2BdyUxYOf6Uxh7iNF2j-2F-2B0i4WsvfzVmvKM60HQTKBTl7-2FdSSDZkDf9HSA47QUmgHfQ3pfCbKBt6d7suISyU8aOtRigGCgCehfchPh0Po7w6ZyKL8uU9BmvEWmf-2B8QxEDc0kD5DE9XFKuqEM472yKOzkkbnIE3DookHKOOo-2B-2FAF39YOHIQvGoR2L6tOvjRMVUAALROtH2vtMqy3bB-2F25-2BzGp1SjqrzPlhOv3nRkOVGA5TOA07F1ObXtajx3EEumzpbXq3bslbpUFhwZdcAkdjT4l6EGWxopL26NIB3Ovedn9uLZAgzIf5y6lMPtSz7bMLmTNblXWbbvRyqhWOyU-3D" target="_blank">joined with the fossil fuel industry to use recycling as justification to continue relying on polluting plastics</a>," Melges said. "And the climate crisis has gotten worse, our <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tag/oceans" target="_self">oceans</a> have grown more polluted, and the health of communities worldwide has deteriorated thanks to this profit model that puts the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries before everything else. If Coke wants to make real news, it should announce that it is finally ending its reliance on plastics altogether."</p>
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recomposelife / Instagram
For those who have dedicated their lives to heal and protect the planet, how do you honor that sacrifice after death? This is a question that has been on the minds of environmental activists for decades. Both cremations and traditional burials cause environmental damage that is not easy to reconcile. However, that is all changing with Recompose, a Seattle company that has recently opened the nation's first human composting funeral home, according to the Seattle Times.
<p>Recompose offers an <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/human-composting-2641562900.html?share_id=5133394" target="_self">innovative funeral service</a> that turns human remains into healthy soil. This service gives Washington state and surrounding residents a chance to make a positive environmental change through their death as well as their life. </p>
<p>In 2019, Governor Jay Inslee <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/washington-human-body-composting-2637805371.html?share_id=4625188" target="_self">passed a bill</a> legalizing composting as a form of human burial. This radical legislation — the first of its kind in the nation — was first inspired by Recompose's founder Katrina Spade and her idea for composting as an eco-conscious burial process. Spade and her neighbor Senator Jamie Pedersen pushed for the bill ardently, and in 2019 were finally successful.</p>
<p>Nearly a decade of research and development went into the founding of Recompose. Their website explains, recomposition "uses the process of 'natural organic reduction' to gently convert human remains into soil." Those kept at the Recompose funeral home are given an optional service and are then placed in mausoleum-like chambers where the composting process begins. </p>
<p>Katrina Spade, like many environmental activists, was frustrated with the limited options for environmentally friendly burial services. Due to the embalming process that most funeral homes use, burial sites are a major source of <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/297275185_Potential_groundwater_pollutants_from_cemeteries" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">groundwater pollution</a>. One of the most common embalming chemicals, formaldehyde, is <a href="https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde/formaldehyde-fact-sheet" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">classified as a carcinogen</a>. Prior to the 2019 bill, the only legal and eco-friendly burial options were natural burial sites. There are only <a href="https://www.us-funerals.com/green-burial-directory/#.YCWuKGhKjb0" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">160 of these sites</a> in the entire country, so for those who don't have access to one of those, eco-friendly options are non-existent. <span></span></p>
<p>Now, those in the Pacific Northwest have an option that saves an entire <a href="https://recompose.life/our-model/#environmental-impact" target="_blank">metric ton of CO2</a> in their burial process. While body pickup is only available in King, Pierce, and Snohomish counties, the facility is accepting clients throughout the Northwest.</p><p>The entire service, including ceremony, obituary, death certificate, and transformation, is $5,500. After the composting process is complete, family members can choose to keep the soil or donate it to the Bells Mountain conservation forest. This forest restoration project welcomes family members to visit and see the real impact their loved one has made on the local environment.</p><p>Charlotte Bontrager, who was one of the first to take a deceased family member to Recompose, said about the process, "My mom was a very humble, loving person and would not want any kind of spotlight. But she'd be thrilled to know she was among this first group of pioneers."</p><p>Because of Katrina Spade and the Washington legislature's hard work, many more will have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the Earth in their passing. To learn more about the program and services, you can <a href="https://recompose.life/" target="_blank">visit their website</a>. </p>
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Bidet Collage
Design: Devon Gailey | Product Imagery: Kohler Puretide Manual Bidet & Toto C200 Electronic Bidet
As Americans seek more environmentally-friendly approaches to their homes and hygiene, bidets have grown in popularity. Recent toilet paper shortages have also convinced more users to opt for a different approach. Looking to make your bathroom more sustainable? Our guide will show you everything you need to know about bidet attachments and seats for your home.
<p>Even if you've never actually used a bidet, you probably know what they are; and if you've ever traveled to Europe or Japan, you may have encountered one. But for those who don't know, a bidet is essentially a device that uses a stream of water to help you clean instead of toilet paper. Bidets can sometimes be stand-alone devices, but in other instances they are attachments to existing toilet seats.<br></p><p>If you're interested in getting a bidet in your home, there are a number of standout bidet seats and attachments on the market today. We'll walk you through just a few of the most popular options, highlighting some of the best buys in the bidet space.<span></span></p><h2>Our picks for the best bidets of 2021</h2><p><em>Each product featured here has been independently selected by the writer. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.</em></p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Best Bidet Seat- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00UCIOX2Q/ref=redir_mobile_desktop?_encoding=UTF8&aaxitk=-XjvJQOmffOcAmiCOZvtAA&hsa_cr_id=7413316040901&pd_rd_plhdr=t&pd_rd_r=0e0e7f3d-0baf-4977-85d3-663f618a76d8&pd_rd_w=Yi3yF&pd_rd_wg=LUFHB&ref_=sbx_be_s_sparkle_lsi3d_asin_1_img" target="_blank">Toto C200 Electronic Bidet </a></li><li><span class="redactor-invisible-space"></span>Best Bidet Attachment- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/TUSHY-Classic-Bidet-Toilet-Attachment/dp/B07B8Y327H/" target="_blank">TUSHY Classic 3.0 Bidet Attachment</a> </li><li>Best Smart Bidet Seat- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/BioBidet-Elongated-Unlimited-Hydroflush-Nightlight/dp/B00GRM11R6/ref=sr_1_9?crid=27TW41EG68V2Z&dchild=1&keywords=coway+bidet&qid=1613076323&s=hi&sprefix=coway+%2Ctools%2C166&sr=1-9" target="_blank">BioBidet Bliss BB-2000 Bidet Seat</a></li><li>Most Customizable Seat- <a href="https://myomigo.com/products/omigo" target="_blank">Omigo Luxury Bidet Toilet Seat</a></li><li>Most Affordable- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Luxe-Bidet-Neo-120-Non-Electric/dp/B00A0RHSJO/" target="_blank">LUXE Bidet Neo 120 Attachment</a></li><li>Best for Comfort- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Brondell-Stainless-Steel-Nanotechnology-Sterilization-Nightlight/dp/B06Y33RKTC?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1" target="_blank">Brondell Swash 1400 Bidet Seat</a></li><li><span class="redactor-invisible-space"></span>Best Non-Electric Bidet Seat- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/K-5724-0-Quiet-Close-Adjustable-Self-Cleaning-Electrical/dp/B017Y451GM/ref=sr_1_16?dchild=1&keywords=genie%2Bbidet&qid=1613074948&sr=8-16&th=1" target="_blank">Kohler Puretide Manual Bidet Toilet Seat</a></li><li>Best for Accessibility- <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Coway-Bidetmega-400E-Elongated-Electronic-Bidet/dp/B082LZC4N4/ref=sr_1_5?crid=VY6SDDJ4RBG4&dchild=1&keywords=coway+bidet&qid=1613076801&sprefix=coway+bidet%2Caps%2C198&sr=8-5" target="_blank">Coway Bidetmega 400E Bidet Seat</a></li></ul><h2>How we reviewed bidet seats and attachments</h2><p>To create our list of the best bidet seats and bidet attachments, we considered a few key categories for each product. For bidet seats we looked for options that included heated seats, warm water reservoirs, self-cleaning wands, multiple nozzles, customization and adjustment options, ease-of-installation, and whether they offered an eco-mode or energy saving setting. For bidet attachments we looked for options with an affordable price, self-cleaning wands, easy installation, and whether they allow users to control or adjust water pressure and nozzle settings. Additionally, we compared brand reputation and the information they offered on how much the product could help <a data-linked-post="2629612402" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/forests-tissue-toilet-paper-sustainability-2629612402.html" target="_blank">reduce toilet paper waste</a> in the environment. You can also read our individual reviews of <a data-linked-post="2650625731" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/tushy-bidet-review-2650625731.html" target="_blank">Tushy</a>, <a data-linked-post="2650626345" href="https://www.ecowatch.com/omigo-bidet-review-2650626345.html" target="_blank">Omigo</a>, and <a href="https://www.ecowatch.com/toto-bidet-reviews-2650627078.html" target="_blank">Toto</a> bidets.</p><p>Here are the best bidet options for you to consider.</p>
<h2>The benefits of using a bidet<br></h2><p>What are the top reasons for using a bidet? There are actually many benefits to consider.</p><h3>Better cleanliness</h3><p>One reason why people love bidets is that water bidets help you get clean in ways that toilet paper just won't. That's because we all understand that a stream of water has greater cleaning power than paper or tissue. Additionally, some bidets have air drying and self-cleaning features to make them a more sanitary option.</p><h3>Better for the environment</h3><p>Another reason to use a bidet is that it's better for the environment than using toilet paper.</p><p>The U.S. accounts for a disproportionately high percentage of the <a href="https://www.statista.com/chart/15676/cmo-toilet-paper-consumption/" target="_blank">world's toilet paper use</a>. A big reason for that? We don't use bidets. But by making the switch, you can massively cut back on your own contributions to paper waste.</p><p>And while using a bidet does require you to use some water, but it's actually <a href="https://www.brondell.com/healthy-living-blog/how-much-water-does-a-bidet-use/" target="_blank">quite a bit less water</a> than what's required to manufacture a single roll of toilet tissue.</p><h3>Better for your wallet</h3><p>Using a bidet can actually help you save quite a bit of money. The average bidet user reduces their annual toilet paper use by more than <a href="https://www.businessinsider.com/bidets-better-than-using-just-toilet-paper-2019-9" target="_blank">75 percent</a>, which for some families is quite a bit of money!</p><p>Plus, any time a major storm or a big snow is coming, folks head to the store to stock up on toilet paper. If you've got a bidet in your bathroom, you can skip the last-minute run to the store.</p><h3>Additional perks of a bidet</h3><p>The list of bidet benefits just goes on from there. Some additional advantages that bidet users can anticipate include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Bidets are comfortable and non-irritating to your skin</li><li>Using a bidet can have particular benefits for women and expecting mothers, minimizing the risk of UTIs</li><li>Bidets are very easy to use, including for those who have mobility issues</li><li>By using a bidet, you will have a lower likelihood of clogged toilets and other expensive plumbing problems</li><li>Bidets can be great for showing your kids how to use proper hygiene</li></ul><p>Really, the list could go on and on. So with all of that said, let's move on to the next question: What should you look for in a bidet?</p><h2>What to consider when shopping for the best bidet</h2><p>In seeking a bidet seat or attachment, keep these shopping considerations in mind.</p><h3>Electric bidet vs. non-electric</h3><p>An electric bidet seat is generally going to offer the most consistent and comfortable performance. By contrast, a mechanical bidet simply uses your home's water pressure, which can be less reliable. With that said, a mechanical bidet will likely cost you less. If you're hoping to spend under $300 on a bidet, a mechanical one is probably your only bet.</p><h3>Heated bidet vs. non-heated</h3><p>Concerned about the shock of cold water from a bidet? You can invest in a bidet that uses warm water with temperature control instead. Keep in mind, though, that if it takes your hot water supply a few seconds to reach the bathroom sink, it will take just as long to reach the bidet.</p><h3>Find a self-cleaning bidet</h3><p>Some bidets include a self-cleaning nozzle that can clean themselves between each use. Others will require you to manually clean the nozzle yourself. As you might imagine, self-cleaning bidets are a little more expensive, but much more convenient and hygienic.</p><h3>Attachment vs. seat</h3><p>One of the biggest decisions to make is whether you'll get a bidet attachment, or a full bidet seat. What's the difference?</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>A bidet attachment simply attaches to your current toilet seat. These often work just fine, but may not look as streamlined.</li><li>A full bidet seat will be a bit more expensive, and potentially harder to install, but ultimately it's a more compact approach.</li></ul><h3>Consider multiple nozzles</h3><p>Many bidets will offer you a single nozzle, but some offer dual nozzles for more cleaning options. You'll pay a little bit more for the twin nozzles, but for many bidet users, that will be money well spent.</p><h3>Additional features</h3><p>High-end electric bidets come with a range of other features. Some of these extras might include:</p><ul class="ee-ul"><li>Pulsating water spray and oscillation options</li><li>Warm air dryers</li><li>Deodorizers</li><li>"Smart" settings and user profiles with a control panel</li></ul><h2>Buying a bidet FAQs</h2><p><strong>Q. Are bidets messy?</strong></p><p>No, it's actually very easy to adjust the pressure and positioning of a bidet nozzle, ensuring clean, precise use. Plus, many bidets include a self-cleaning function.</p><p><strong>Q. What if I don't have any room in my bathroom for a bidet?</strong></p><p>One of the great things about bidet seats and attachments is that you don't need any extra space. You can simply install one of these units onto your existing toilet.</p><p><strong>Q. Are bidets primarily for women?</strong></p><p>While bidets do offer special feminine hygiene benefits, they also help men remain clean and sanitary, without the need to use a bunch of toilet paper. Bidets are great for women, but they certainly aren't just for women.</p><p><strong>Q. Should I use soap with my bidet?</strong></p><p>No! Regularly using soap in sensitive areas can actually cause irritation. Warm water is all that's required for your bidet to offer its full, sanitary effects.</p><p><strong>Q. Will I need a plumber to install my bidet?</strong></p><p>All of the seats and attachments listed here are very easy to self-install and should not require you to call a plumber. </p><h2>Choose the bidet that's right for you and the environment</h2><p>Bidets are surging in popularity as more and more people discover the hygienic and environmental benefits. There's never been a better time to try one out and enjoy the unique benefits for yourself. Use this guide to find the bidet that's right for your comfort preferences and your budget to reduce your impact on the planet.</p><p><em><strong>Josh Hurst</strong> </em><em>is a journalist, critic, and essayist. He lives in Knoxville, TN, with his wife and three sons. His writing on natural health, nutrition, and supplements has appeared in Health, Shape, and Remedy Review.</em></p>
Toto WASHLETT C200 Electronic Bidet
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDEwMC9vcmlnaW4uanBnIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2ODMxMTQ4MX0.oxb64aBNUCLREQfyHf3z_-UwSWixPjj1DTq0w0hy2I0/img.jpg?width=980" id="1c4cc" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7c78a06a2ff5b11dc70cf63f1c6d2738" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Toto USA
<p>Toto is a company that's well-established for its quality bidet products. The <a href="https://www.totousa.com/washlet-c200-elongated" target="_blank">Toto C200 electric bidet</a> seat comes with a number of advantages, and you can even create unique user profiles, ensuring the bidet remembers your preferences.</p><ul><li>Adjustable oscillating water options</li><li>A built-in air dryer to assist you in personal hygiene.</li><li>A self-cleaning wand automatically cleans up after each use.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The Toto WASHLET C200 electric bidet features a deodorizer, heated seat, instant warm water reservoir, and a pre-mist cleaning function for added hygiene.</p>
$715
TUSHY Classic 3.0 Bidet Attachment
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDEzOC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYxODM3NTQwOH0.Ev3RrUsQtas0xNYNIrCXKfzrT_HLJ5gU490nfAQjaLQ/img.png?width=980" id="089bb" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="9c7fa19f3b4363e935470c4decdd13f7" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />hellotushy
<p>If you're looking for an attachment rather than a full toilet seat, we recommend this model from TUSHY. The <a href="https://hellotushy.com/collections/bidet-attachments/products/classic-affordable-bidet" target="_blank">TUSHY Classic 3.0</a> is an especially great option for bidet shoppers on a budget from an eco-conscious brand.</p><ul><li>It's made for easy installation, usually taking no more than 10 minutes.</li><li>This is one of the very best bidet attachments for under $100.</li><li>Controls let you customize nozzle placement and water pressure.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>Tushy claims their non-electric bidet attachment can reduce your toilet paper usage by 80%, saving trees and money.</p>
$99
BioBidet Bliss BB-2000 Bidet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDE3MC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NTY0ODI4MH0.Eqfch49Hy_bjHLLxbEyXX3zgTKe8UQ3SDPm2gjyukBg/img.png?width=980" id="cb5b2" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="4fccf240d067627b6a80d07e23702467" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />BioBidet
<p>The <a href="https://biobidet.com/products/bliss-bidet" target="_blank">BioBidet Bliss seat</a> offers a number of advanced features including a comfort-adjustable heated seat with a remote control, adjustable warm air drying, and a patented vortex wash.</p><ul><li>Adjustable water temperature, water pressure, and heated seat.</li><li>Three-in-one stainless steel nozzle design for a complete clean and feminine wash.</li><li>Hybrid heating technology so you always have warm water.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This electric bidet seat from BioBidet features an Energy Save Mode to reduce electricity usage as well as toilet paper usage.</p>
$642
Omigo Luxury Bidet Toilet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDE4OS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzODU2MjM2NH0.4viAu17RghmygCcDJKHFsk_yMyQvoWOpU-SP-Sy2fzg/img.png?width=980" id="4e28d" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="236c5e2f9ae842a5255699889ccb547a" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Omigo
<p>For years, Omigo has been a leading name in luxury bidets and accessories. Their flagship product boasts hundreds of rave reviews, and a long list of exciting features. Some of the perks of choosing Omigo include:</p><ul><li>They offer various shapes, allowing you to pick the bidet that best matches your existing toilet bowl.</li><li>Omigo offers a heated seat with adjustable temperature.</li><li>An LED night light makes it easy for you to use your bidet even at night.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> You can customize your bidet experience by choosing from a range of nozzle positions and adjustable spray pressure settings, and separate rear and front nozzles are available.</p>
$520
LUXE Bidet Neo 120 Attachment
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDIwNC9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzMTMxMzc2NH0.uvqzgvM110SNs7Of8twf12xAL0ohsRLRSE1Kp42bH5Q/img.png?width=980" id="4a873" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="967d63285190f17bf51c2c11232be5d2" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Luxe Bidet
<p>LUXE offers affordable bidet options with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you're looking to try out a basic bidet to see what it's like, the <a href="https://luxebidet.com/product/neo-120-bidet-attachment/" target="_blank">LUXE Neo 120</a> attachment may be the perfect option. One thing to note, however, is that this model is non-electric and uses cold water.</p><ul><li>A self-cleaning, sanitary nozzle with guard helps promote cleanliness and hygiene.</li><li>The LUXE bidet attachment installs easily and in minutes.</li><li>18-month warranty and 100% satisfaction guarantee.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>This is one of the most affordable bidet options out there, and is a great way to make your bathroom more sustainable.</p>
$36
Brondell Swash 1400 Bidet Toilet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDIxMy9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY0MTkxMjE3NH0.qvSmifGi2mJBp4CiCWksqlf0NFwi_suYeefacIh1RNg/img.png?width=980" id="7a0a9" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="7ea1d4ceb1a26849f99c1f5e402c9670" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Brondell
<p><a href="https://www.brondell.com/swash-1400-bidet-toilet-seat/" target="_blank">Brondell</a> is another company that offers top-of-the-line bidet toilet seats. The Swash 1400 features a heated seat, air dryer, replaceable deodorizer, and programmable user settings. Brondell also offers a non-electric Ecoseat series and a travel bidet.</p><ul><li>Seven different nozzle positions, and an ambient night light.</li><li>The unit can be installed in under an hour, without any need to call a plumber.</li><li>Front and rear nozzles allow for a complete cleaning experience.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> Brondell notes that 37 gallons of water are used to make one roll of toilet paper; that same amount of water is equivalent to 150 washes with their bidet seat.</p>
$552
Kohler Puretide Manual Bidet Toilet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDIyMS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTYzNTg3NTkwM30.mUoTPiKJ9uXzvG1nC6aS_yBZ06mjVFSFIpnRRdKmDRg/img.png?width=980" id="f83fc" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="898d9f3171aab1df3be07e5b0b3e092e" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Kohler
<p>The <a href="https://www.us.kohler.com/us/puretide-quiet-close-elongated-manual-bidet-toilet-seat/productDetail/toilet-seats/1152463.htm" target="_blank">Kohler Puretide</a> manual bidet seat is a simple, straightforward, and affordable product. It features a self-cleaning wand with adjustable water pressure and position.</p><ul><li>Sleek, low-profile design that doesn't stand out.</li><li>Manual-operated handle allows you to control water pressure without electricity.</li><li>Quick-Attach hardware makes it easy to install in minutes.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy: </strong>The Kohler Puretide is an affordable, non-electric bidet seat that makes it easy to reduce your environmental impact. It also features a very unobtrusive design.</p>
$99
Coway Bidetmega 400E Bidet Seat
<img type="lazy-image" data-runner-src="https://assets.rebelmouse.io/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiIsInR5cCI6IkpXVCJ9.eyJpbWFnZSI6Imh0dHBzOi8vYXNzZXRzLnJibC5tcy8yNTY0MDIyOS9vcmlnaW4ucG5nIiwiZXhwaXJlc19hdCI6MTY2NTEzNTgwOX0.ImqGQjA8LfEF_efbMv5sGfpoHcAOwB7ck4slhLasV2g/img.png?width=980" id="adeb0" class="rm-shortcode" data-rm-shortcode-id="97a2e1eaafa0424007199a43a457499b" data-rm-shortcode-name="rebelmouse-image" data-width="400" data-height="400" />Cowaymega
<p>This electronic bidet seat from Coway includes a ton of features that make it an accessible option for every member of the family. The company's unique i-wave Cleaning Technology is designed to provide a comfortable cleaning experience for every person.</p><ul><li>Wireless remote control with child-friendly controls and braille for visually-impaired users.</li><li>Three-stage cleansing care system keeps the system hygienic.</li><li>Adjustable water temperature, water pressure, direction, flow, and warm air dryer.</li></ul><p><strong>Why buy:</strong> Coway includes a lot of accessibility features in their bidet seats, as well as an eco-mode to reduce the energy consumption of the unit.</p>
$389
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