Why Leo Rocks Our Planet

It’s an awesome thing when celebrities use their influence and star power to promote positive change.  Leonardo DiCaprio has focused on the environment by founding The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation and through his participation as a board member of Global Green USA, a nonprofit organization dedicated to greening America’s schools, creating affordable housing, and encouraging cities to combat global warming, lower energy bills, and create green jobs.

The Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation was established in 1998.  It has actively created awareness of environmental issues by participating with various organizations such as the Natural Resources Defense Council, Global Green USA, and the International Fund For Animal Welfare. The DiCaprio Foundation created the web site www.leonardodicaprio.org to create a wider outreach to an international audience. The site also promotes current environmental campaigns, such as “the world wide movement to eliminate the use of plastic bags.”

In celebration of Earth Day this year, Leonardo DiCaprio is participating in an online ebay auction of green experiences, such as getting to meet Leo at the premiere of his newest film with a green hotel and eco-car service included.  Also included in the auction are some costume pieces from Catch Me If You Can, signed memorabilia, and more.  All proceeds benefit Global Green USA.

The iPhone has stirred up a lot of hype, but for the eco-geek, there’s another touch screen phone this year that might be even more exciting.  Samsung has introduced their new eco-friendly Blue Earth phone, one of the first solar-powered cell phones on the market.  In addition to being sun-powered, the making and packaging of the phone places a strong emphasis on recycled material while the user experience encourages the phone’s owner to take little steps (literally) to improving the environment.

ECO USER EXPERIENCE

• The phone’s software has functions to encourage users to contribute positively to the environment
• One example is the “Eco Walk” function, where the phone acts like a pedometer and tells users the amount of CO2 emission they’ve reduced by walking, and consequently the number of trees saved by this decision
• Another application, the “Eco Mode,” is an easy way to adjust the phone’s backlight so that it’s more energy efficient

POWER SAVING

• The phone has a solar panel located on the back, in which 10-14 hours of sun power yields about 4 hours of talk time
• An energy efficient charger also comes with the phone, claimed to be over 75% more energy efficient

ECO-PACKAGING

• The commercial packaging for the phone is made of recycled paper
• Overall, it’s 40% lighter than typical packaging, thereby reducing the delivery weight

ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIALS

• The phone is made from PCM, recycled plastic from water bottles

–Image credit: Samsung/Cnet–

The phone is scheduled to be available in Europe later this year.  No word as to when it’ll hit the states — but if you know, let us know!

Looking for the perfect Valentine’s gift for your conscious sweetheart?  Here are some snob-approved ideas to help you out.

1. Nix the butchered stems and keep the vase.

Flowers can make a sweet Valentine’s gift — but after a few days, the wilted and droopy blooms can be a sad state.  This Valentine’s, forget the bouquet and send your love some potted blossoms.  Potted orchids are beautiful alternatives to roses, and better yet they can continue to bloom year after year.  If your special someone isn’t keen on flowers, how about a love fern? Remember the good consequences that followed in How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days?

2. Adorn her with something unique.

Tiffany’s is certainly a popular favorite, but this Valentine’s get her something every other girl won’t have.  Check out Etsy.com for handmade crafts and jewelry pieces that come from an array of creative designers.  It’s a great place to find something beautiful — at the right price.

3. Profess your love virtually and save a tree.

With so many online cards and videos, you can express your love without the traditional mandatory Valentine’s card.  You can email your sweetheart an animated V-day card every hour if you want, or for something even more personalized, profess your feelings for him or her in a Youtube video or a sappy slideshow.  Need inspiration?  There’s plenty of them online already, so scope out a few before you get started on your own.

4. Fix her sweet tooth with organic goodness.

Does your lover love chocolate?  Seal the deal with a box of organic chocolate this year.  The shelf life won’t be as long…but the delectable chocolates will be worth every bite.  When did chocolate take too long to finish anyways?  Added plus, you can help consume the sweets so that it’s finished in a timely fashion.

5. Relax with a couple’s massage.

There’s nothing better than helping your love relax… and sharing the experience with him/her.  Most day spas offer couples massages for sweethearts to enjoy a relaxing hour besides one another.  And frankly, what’s better than unwinding with a Swiss massage before your Valentine’s dinner?

For more ideas, be sure to read Sexy Snob’s “Valentine’s Day: Make it Special” article.  And remember, Valentine’s is just a reminder to celebrate your love every day!