Malorie Bertrand

How to be intimate without doing harm to Mother Nature.

The idea of eco-sex, strike that- the image of eco-sex- is very kinky. Soft grass, hot sun, and two sweaty people getting intimate. Amidst all of the scientific and technological discourse surrounding environmentalism, it’s great to have a fun topic like sex balance harmoniously into an act of loving Mother Nature. After a bit of online research, I came up with six new eco-sex tips for you, the fabulous readers of EF. It doesn’t hurt to be reminded of simple sexual acts that can be given a slight twist to reduce your ecological footprint. So here we go: our list of fun tips to a greener sex life. Enjoy (I mean it).

Greenpeace suggests that if any of you are in the mood to get feisty with paddles (don’t ask), to make sure they have been made from sustainable harvested timber. You could take this advice when buying any old canoe paddle, but if you’re going to demand only the best for your kayak, why not do the same for the one you love? Make sure you’re patting your partner’s beautiful tush with nothing but smooth, certified timber. Look for paddles that indicate certification from the only internationally recognized ecological forest certification organization, the Forest Stewardship Council (or FSC). Smack THAT!

Thinking of romantically feeding one another oysters (proven to be potent aphrodisiacs) over candlelight and wine? First consider the fact that our oceans are being depleted of sea life, and that your romantic gastronomic choice will only worsen the situation. That is definitely not a sexy thought. Instead, please opt for supporting sustainable community-based fruit operations. Two popular and abundant herbal and fruit drinks, guaraná and caju, are great alternatives to further endangering sea life.

Forget about commonly used fossil fuel-based lubricants like petroleum jelly! Greenpeace has stated that Esso is essentially “screwing the planet”, but you don’t have to. Here’s a novel idea: why not shut off Facebook long enough for foreplay? You might discover new and fabulous regions of each others bodies. Or, just head over to your nearest pharmacy or local stag shop to pick yourself up some natural-based lubricants, and enjoy.

Condoms…what’s so bad about condoms? Well, when they’re made out of a highly toxic and virtually un-biodegradable plastic called polyurethane, a lot. They pile up in landfills, clog up water treatment plants, and when flushed down the toilet, float around the ocean and cause havoc for sea life. Latex condoms are less damaging because they are derived from rubber (a natural resource). Unfortunately, rubber trees suffer from rubber cultivation (and don’t forget about the exploitation of rubber pickers). One thing you can do is research a company called Condomi. They have come up with a Virtual Skinwear line made of biodegradable condoms that have been approved by the Vegan Society.

Sipping champagne? Remember to recycle your bottle.

Ladies, want to spice things up with the display of your luscious curves draped in lingerie? Show him your love for him extends to the planet by sporting organic lingerie. Your girlfriends will be ‘green’ with envy.