This past weekend (April 23 to April 25, 010), Planet Forward was an exhibitor at the Green Living Show in Toronto.  Over 20,000 green consumers converged to learn more about the latest and greatest in green products, sustainable and organic food, eco-friendly cars, and renewable energy solutions.

There was lots of action on the main stage.  John Bell, host of the successful television series World’s Greenest Homes, conducted several ‘know how’ sessions on eco-renovations and greening your home.  Van Jones, environmental advocate, author of The Green Collar Economy, and former Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation to President Obama, delivered the keynote address to discuss today’s environmental challenges.  Speakers also included actors Colin Firth and Amy Smart, as well as popular Canadian and multiple Olympic Medalist, Clara Hughes.  There was a huge line up to get an autograph after Clara spoke, and we tracked down one of her handlers to give her one of our stainless steel bottles.   Visitors to main stage even had the opportunity to hear the Toronto mayoral candidates’ environmental platforms.  Even Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty worked the crowd.

There truly was a plethora of green vendors, with over 400 exhibitors.  Many renewable energy solutions were on display like windmills to power your residence or solar panels for your roof.  Whether you wanted organic cosmetics, sustainable snacks and treats, green cleaning solutions, organic dairy, all natural pet food, green cars, reusable bottles, reusable bags, organic fashion or Energy Star rated appliances and electronics – the Green Living Show had numerous vendors ready to fulfill your eco-minded needs.  Heck, there was even free valet parking for your bicycle.

If you were hungry, the best place to visit was the Farm Fresh Fare section.  Presented by Toyota Canada, it paired local farmers and producers with Toronto chefs and a variety of sustainable, local food with something for everyone – vegetarians, omnivores and carnivores.  I personally enjoyed the organic goat cheese, tomato and cucumber salad and the good old fashioned chicken noodle soup from the kitchen of renowned Canadian chef Jamie Kennedy.  Funds generated from the Farm Fresh Fare support Evergreen and Slow Food’s charitable mandates of connecting people with nature and providing access to good, clean and fair food.

Planet Forward’s exhibit was located next to the Kids Zone and it was a busy weekend.  Just like our experience last year at the Green Living Show, our reusable stainless steel bottles were an extremely popular item and we sold out of many of our colors before the show ended on Sunday.
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