worldofgood090508.jpgeBay's new Web site WorldofGood.com is designed to connect socially and environmentally aware purchasers, with sellers. There are some great items to be found, but what really caught my eye was the Community Section, full of green tips!

A few green articles in the Community section include:

I'll let you explore the community content but I assure you, there's plenty of great reading!

The World of Good marketplace is also well thought out. Each item for sale includes Producer information detailing either the the craftsman or reseller. Every item also includes a section for "Trustology", where sellers can be verified by some 24 organizations including the International Fair Trade Association, Co-op America and the Rainforest Alliance. A "Goodprint" designation lets you know which attributes the product has that are environmentally/socially sensitive, including:


  1. People positive

  2. Eco Positive

  3. Animal Friendly

  4. Supports a Cause

Here are a couple of examples:

Telephone Wire Mbenge
wirebasket090508.JPG
Goodprint Designations:


  1. People Positive: Economic Empowerment, Quality of Life, Preserving Tradition and Self-Empowerment.

  2. Eco Positive: Energy Conservation, Eco-friendly Production, Environmental Conservation

  3. Animal Friendly: Animal Welfare

  4. Supports a Cause: 10% of the final sale price will support Heifer International

A Reclaimed Olive Wood Kahero Farm Bowl from Africa:
olivebowl090508.jpg
Goodprint Designations:


  1. People Positive: Economic Empowerment

  2. Eco Positive: Energy Conservation, Eco-friendly production

So in my mind, buying locally is usually better for the environment but supporting small producers in other countries is also socially responsible. If you're in the market for a special gift or some international flavor for your home, WorldofGood might be a good place to look.

So what do you think of eBay's attempt to grab a piece of the eco and socially conscious marketplace?