To what lengths–mini or maxi–will you go for the environment? In an article in today’s Huffington Post, blogger Olivia Zaleski notes that Target has introduced a new line of sustainable swim wear. The store has teamed with eco-fashion designer and sustainable materials expert, Rogan Gregory. Zaleski praises the effort to use sustainable materials, but wonders if  the line is able to sustain a low pricebecause workers are exploited. And, she is less than wowed by the fashion element of “Rogan for Target.” She writes:

“The line is a monstrous collection of rompers, striped vests, and itsy-bitsy bikinis all made from certified sustainable materials such as eco-sensitive synthetics, rapidly renewable hemp and bamboo fiber. No 15% organic cotton here. Rogan goes all out with 100% wovens and flax linen blends. Each item’s tag is printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper and boasts a tidbit of info on the collection’s ethics and intentions.”

Read the complete article and see photos by clicking here. Then tell us what you think.

Just wondering: do you have to wait 30 minutes before going into the water after eating your organic meal?

Neighborhood Pedalers from Ampolo Team on Vimeo.

Last week we introduced you to a “smart way” to reward drivers of eco-friendly automobiles. This week we offer a different way to deal with the inconvenient truths we all face.

Mileage Rewards from Ampolo Team on Vimeo.

From time to time, Ampolo introduces “ordinary” citizens who translate their own ideas into realities that improve the community. Previously, we featured Gabrielle Lyon and Joan Brunwasser. This week, meet Lali Watt. After Howard Dean encouraged those desiring change to get involved in local politics, Lali ran for trustee of Wilmette, Illinois. Once elected she came up with a novel, yet simple plan for rewarding environmentally-conscious village members.

Speaking of being environmentally conscious, we recently received an email from Doug, who sells re-usable shopping bags and other eco-friendly products, including (and we hadn’t thought of this) bio-degradable trash bags. We don’t endorse any particular company’s products and are not receiving anything in return for mentioning this, but you may want to look at his website or other similar sites you can find online. Buying green can make a difference. Also, the Sunday January 13 issue of the Chicago Tribune offered 50 simple tips from a year of living the green life.