To mark Organic Fortnight, fou furnishings is running a competition to win a set of our beautifully textured ‘Boutis’ organic cotton cushion covers. Ends 30th of September. So simple to enter. Just follow these two steps for your chance to win a pair of luxurious organic cushion covers to grace your bed or sofa.

1. Tick the “like” box at the top of our Facebook page.
Email us at info@foufurnishings.com with the answer to this question:

Fou furnishings Boutis is certfied by a) The UK Soil Association b) Oeko-Tex c) Neither
Visit http://www.foufurnishings.com/ to check out Boutis
in our bedspreads and cushions section and email your answer to info@foufurnishings.com

fou furnishings is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

Urban Africa has climbed aboard the Facebook ‘band’ wagon and we plan to communicate all our company news, competitions and so on from Facebook in future. We don’t want you to miss out so click www.facebook.com/UrbanAfrica  and become a UA Fan, you might like this. And suggest Urban Africa to your friends!

We’ll be entering all our UA Fans (new and old) into a draw at the end of August and you could be the lucky one to scoop a first edition of African Salad, a contemporary cookbook filled with traditional (and wacky) African recipes some handed down through generations. The photos alone awakening this cookbook and it’s likely to spend more time on your coffee table than in your kitchen cupboard!

Good Luck!

Competition closes 31 August 2010.

Urban Africa is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

We’re proud to announce the third annual National Zero Waste Week.

The week commences 6th September and the theme is ‘Cooking for Victory!’ We chose this in response to WRAP’s household food waste report which shows the average householder throws away 1/3 of the food they buy. National Zero Waste Week is an opportunity for you to focus on your food waste, make a pledge to reduce it and win some prizes.

We have celebrity chef Brian Turner CBE supporting us and are sponsored by Tetra Pak. There is the opportunity for 2 people to win vouchers – 1 x £50 voucher for LUSH and 1 x £50 voucher for Natural Collection.

Click here to pledge your support then come back during National Zero Waste Week to tell us how you’re getting on. Remember, two lucky people will win some great prizes!

My Zero Waste is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

When a property is undergoing refurbishment, it’s an ideal time to install underfloor heating (UFH) as the system offers excellent opportunities in terms of improved energy efficiency, greater design freedom and ease of installation. But how can you tell if the system is an appropriate solution?

Installing underfloor heating (UFH) in a refurbishment property can present major challenges and it is vital to ensure that the system is suitable. Insulation in the existing property needs to be brought broadly in line with the requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations; wall insulation, double glazed windows and doors are all helpful. Floor insulation is essential and could affect floor height build-up. A good UFH supplier will undertake full heat-loss calculations and advise where shortfalls, if any, will be.

Floor constructions

Of the three standard floor constructions available – floating floor, suspended timber and screed – suspended timber floors have little impact on floor height build-up, although ceilings or floors will have to be removed in order to lay the floor heating tube. This is acceptable if they are being replaced anyway but if they have to remain in-situ a floating floor is a better solution. The floating floor construction is a popular option for retrofitting UFH due to minimal floor height build-up and straightforward installation, as it is laid over the existing deck. An average floor height build-up of 150mm means that screed is better suited to renovation projects where floors are being removed or sufficient height is available.

1980s bungalow

Sometimes a refurbishment property doesn’t appear to tick the boxes for UFH, but that doesn’t necessarily rule it out, and is where the use of a supply and design company can really help. This bungalow had 60mm loft insulation, 30mm floor insulation and no wall insulation, but heat loss calculations indicated that by using Nu-Heat’s floor construction SL14 (14mm Fastflo® in liquid screed with cliptrack), the system would achieve the required comfort levels. The owners agree that it has been exceptionally successful, especially as the primary heat source is an air source heat pump.

Victorian villa – single zone

UFH was retrofitted into the hallway of an 1850s Victorian property with a joisted floor, and issues concerning very high ceilings (3.2m) and thresholds into other rooms. Heat loss calculations showed that the presence of an enclosed porch at either end of the hallway made UFH viable, and hardwood thresholds were made to disguise the difference in levels between the hall and other rooms. The UFH was put between the joists with insulation and foil below. The floor covering used was ceramic tile with flexible adhesive and grout. The owner is now having UFH put into the new kitchen extension as they were so pleased with the system in the hall.

In many refurbishment projects, the installation of UFH is likely to be feasible, and once a good design and supply company has the project details they should give frank and unbiased advice on the viability of such a system.

Nu-Heat is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

The Green Insurance Company knows how much you value your pet. That’s why we offer a wide range of pet insurance polices making it easy for you to find the right level of protection for your pet, plus Motivano users can save an extra 5%!

For as little as £5.13* a month you could insure an important member of your family, giving you complete peace of mind.

Some of the benefits included as standard are:

• At no extra cost to you, choose to donate to one of our chosen environmental charity partners.
• Option to pay by interest free monthly instalments.
• All claims assessed by qualified veterinary nurses.
• Most claims settled within 5 days.

 *Price based on cat aged under 8yrs and area 1 postcode. Price correct as of 26/07/10.

How to order:

Click Here for a quick quote. To redeem your 5% discount simply enter the promotional code ‘GREEN362’ when you purchase your policy online.

Terms and Conditions

The Green Insurance Company is an insurance intermediary, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered address: 1 Masterton Way, Tannochside Business Park, Glasgow, G71 5PU. Qualifying criteria, terms and conditions apply.  These will be explained before you buy.  For your protection and ours, calls may be recorded or monitored. This offer is valid until 31/08/2011, and is open to new customers only, buying directly from The Green Insurance Company.

The Green Insurance Company is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

Don’t be left stranded if your car breaks down. The Green Insurance Company offers quality breakdown cover from only £18.45 – plus, Ethical Junction readers can save an extra 10%!

We have a variety of breakdown covers available, so choosing the right policy has never been easier, and with more than 5,000 mechanics nationwide you’ll never be left stranded.  We also make it easy for you to go ‘green’ as we offset 100% of the carbon emissions of any recovery vehicles that are used when providing assistance – all at no extra cost.

Benefits included as standard:

• Over 5,000 qualified mechanics nationwide, available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
• An average callout time of only 40 minutes anywhere in the UK, with a guaranteed £10 cashback if a mechanic doesn’t reach you within the hour
• Priority service for female drivers or those with children
• 2% of our annual profits are donated to good causes

*Price based on vehicle 5 years or younger with Roadside level of cover

How to order:

Click here for a quick quote. To redeem your 10% discount simply enter the promotional code ‘ETHICAL2’ when you purchase your policy online or call 0844 842 5438 where one of our friendly team will be happy to help. Simply give them your discount code.

More info.

Terms and Conditions

The Green Insurance Company is an insurance intermediary, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered address: 1 Masterton Way, Tannochside Business Park, Glasgow, G71 5PU. Qualifying criteria, terms and conditions apply.  These will be explained before you buy.  For your protection and ours, calls may be recorded or monitored. This offer is valid until 31/08/2011, and is open to new customers only, buying directly from The Green Insurance Company.

The Green Insurance Company is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

The Green Insurance Company is for drivers who want more than just low cost car insurance. We make it easy for you to go ‘green’ by offsetting 100% of your car’s harmful carbon emissions every year that you insure with us.

So you can be kinder to the environment without compromising on quality or value.

Some of the benefits included in our policies as standard are:

• 100% offset of your car’s emissions
• Guaranteed courtesy car with comprehensive policies*
• 90 days European cover included as standard
• 24 hour accident and windscreen claims line
• 2% of our profits are donated to charity – helping others
• Special customer offers and discounts throughout the year

Special offer for Ethical Junction members: Get £35 off any car insurance policy from The Green Insurance Company

How to order:

Click here for a quick quote. To redeem your £35 discount simply enter the promotional code ‘ETHICAL’ when you purchase your policy online or call 0844 842 5438 where one of our friendly team will be happy to help. Simply give them your discount code.

Terms and Conditions

The Green Insurance Company is an insurance intermediary, authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Registered address: 1 Masterton Way, Tannochside Business Park, Glasgow, G71 5PU. Qualifying criteria, terms and conditions apply.  These will be explained before you buy.  For your protection and ours, calls may be recorded or monitored. This offer is valid until 31/08/2011, and is open to new customers only, buying directly from The Green Insurance Company.

* Provided an approved repairer is used

The Green Insurance Company is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

Holt Stable is a recent barn conversion, resulting in a very bright and cosy hideaway to very high specifications. It has a private outdoor patio with dining table, chairs and a barbeque, and extensive views of the landscaped courtyard, the orchard and the surrounding countryside. Holt Farm, which is organically run and certified by Organic Farmers & Growers, lies in attractive rolling hill country on the borders of Herefordshire and Monmouthshire. At the end of a long private track, it is a wonderful, peaceful location, and has immediate access to superb walks and rides. Situated at nine hundred feet, a footpath rises behind to a hill with direct access to Offa’s Dyke and the Black Mountains, affording extensive views. http://www.organicholidays.co.uk/at/2891.htm

Organic Holidays is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

The fight against fuel poverty is core to Ebico’s corporate being.  Fuel poverty already affects nearly one in five UK households and this figure is set to rise.  The cost of ‘greening’ the UK energy infrastructure and reducing household carbon emissions, will now be paid via domestic fuel bills rather than through general taxation and will therefore result in more, not less, fuel poverty. 

The unprecedented cuts in government spending that are now necessary to balance the national ‘books’ mean that, despite the best lobbying efforts of campaigners, much less government money will be available to tackle fuel poverty.  It is essential that ways are found to make sure that fuel-poor homes benefit from the suite of domestic energy efficiency-improving and renewable energy-encouraging initiatives (which they are paying for through their home energy bills) at least as much as middle/higher income homes. Ebico intends to be at the centre of these efforts.  So watch this space!

Ebico Ltd is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more

Holly: I’ve seen from your bio that you trained in London, but from there how did you get started in the fashion industry?
Anna: I had a very unusual and different intro into the world of fashion! I appeared on a Saturday night gameshow with Gaby Roslin called ‘Whatever you Want’ and along with two other contestants I had to design and make an outfit for Topshop. I won and the dress I designed was sold in Topshop’s all over the UK and I also had a month’s work experience in the design department which luckily led to all sorts of other design work.

Holly: What was it like designing ranges for top high street retailers such as Topshop and Faith?
Anna: It was very exciting working with Topshop and Faith. They both are amazing retailers and I really enjoyed designing the ranges for them, I had great fun!

Holly:  I’ve seen from your bio that for your latest range of leather accessories that you were inspired by your love of Elvis and glitter. Where else do you find inspiration from for your designs?
Anna: I have always had a love for old Hollywood movies and stars like Rita Hayworth and Marilyn Monroe. I also love the glamour of the showgirls from the early 19th century Zeigfeld Follies alongside current designers such as Balmain, Luella Bartley and Scott Henshall. Mix that up with a bit of rock chick crossed with the colour scheme of the 80’s and that’s me!

Holly: What has been the highlight of your career so far? And what do you hope to achieve in the future?
Anna: One of my favourite and memorable moments was turning on the tv to see Denise Van Outen wearing one of my customised t-shirts that I sold in Topshop, that particular t-shirt sold out the day after would you believe. I would in the future I like my label to be available to more stores and on-line boutiques and of course for more celebs to be seen wearing it!

Holly: What do you have planned for your next range?
Anna: I’m currently designing a new accessories range using lace, fringing and studs. I love coming up with new ideas and working them through to the finished product.

Holly: Finally, what tips do you have for budding designers? Or anyone who hopes to get involved in the world of fashion?
Anna: The fashion industry is a tough one but I would say the best way to start off is to get some good work experience, you might not get paid but it’s an invaluable introduction into the industry. You can offer to dress at catwalk shows or maybe run errands for the designers themselves. Retailers are also willing to take on work experience in their head offices, you can but try! Otherwise if the high-end fashion isn’t quite you and like me you enjoy making things then websites such as Etsy, E-hive and Misi are ideal. For a small fee you can set up your own on-line shop to sell your creations.

Anna Londei’s range of recycled denim and sequin accessories are available to order now from www.puredesigncompany.co.uk. Interview by Holly Langford , Pure Design Digital Marketing Intern

Pure Design is an active member of Ethical Junction, learn more