How Bambi goes green

Okay, maybe not like this... think less outer-spacey and more plant-a-pretty-tree-ish.
…in three easy steps? I wish!
So, I bet you’re all wondering — what’s Bambi’s top secret project? What does this crazy lady have up her sleeve? Where’d I put the lid to the peanut butter? (Okay, maybe it’s only me who’s wondering that.) Well here it is, folks.
A little while ago I heard about this neat-o little gas station located in the west end of Ottawa called Topia Greenstop and Real Cafe. I didn’t even know that this place existed – which really isn’t that out of the ordinary for a gas station, especially for this non-drivin’, bus-takin’ gal. This isn’t your ordinary gas station, however — here you can get all natural BioDiesel and ethanol blends of fuel. And not only is it a gas station, it’s a cafe too! The Real Cafe sells organic food — and not just your run-of-the-mill organic food, but really delicious looking wraps, natural cola and soft drinks, and organic coffee. In doing a bit of research, I’ve also discovered that the building was created with environmentally friendly materials too. The cabinets are made of recycled straw board and the counter tops are made of chemical-free and renewable poured concrete. This super unique gas station is Canada’s first renewable energy stop. How cool is that?
Now, to preface this (for those who don’t know me), I am not an organic food kinda gal. If I’ve ever eaten it, it was by mistake. It’s not that I refuse to eat organic food, or that I hate the planet, or some other crazy reason like that. It’s just that I’m used to eating the foods I grew up with. I walk right past the organics section to grab the apples that I already know and love. Plus — what about price? Organic food sounds more expensive, but to be fair, I don’t think I’ve ever really compared. It doesn’t even cross my mind, most times. And another thing — I think I may avoid organic foods based on their names “whole grain” and “free range” and “chemical-free”… while the idea of me avoiding food that says these things on it is hilarious to me, I think my fear is that I’ll look like one of those people — the people that are snooty about everything that they put into their body… but hey, are they wrong? You’ve only got one body. Shouldn’t I be more choosey about what kinds of crazy things I stuff down my gullet? Ding! Idea!
Topia’s got the right idea — marketing natural, organic foods in a way that makes them appeal to our kind. Sure, I might not buy organic cheese but put it on a delicious grilled chicken sandwich wrap and I’m yours! And that delicious sandwich? Entirely organic. The price? Well, I suppose you could get a McDonald’s burger for the same price… is cardboard organic? Now, I should be honest with you — the above is just theory. I don’t know if organic cheese or chicken is good. I’ve never had it! And I can tell you, I’ve had McDonald’s cardboard mcnuggets more than once (and enjoyed them, too). Here’s how we solve this problem:
I have been talking with the folks from Topia Greenstop and Real Cafe and we’ve come up with a really cool experiment. They want to help me go green in any way they can and since I really don’t know much about the green-ing process, I’m more than willing to accept some guidance! Starting next week, I will be trying out their food products, their household products, their fuels, and their helpful hints for making my lifestyle a more eco-friendly one. And I’ll be sharing this whole experience with BambiGoesGreen! How do organic potato chips stack up against my beloved Lays? Organic beef versus good ol’ grocery store beef? I guess we’ll find out. Of course secretly I’m hoping for awesome video footage of me grimacing some gross good-for-me foods and they’re not-so-secretly hoping for me to totally love all their organic-y goods, but we’ll see won’t we. *evil laugh* It’s bound to be tonnes of fun either way!
I can tell you, I’m both excited and scared. If there’s one thing you don’t mess with, it’s a girl’s food. I’m a hard sell when it comes to sacrificing taste for Mother Nature. I mean, sure, she’s a great lady… but don’t mess with my sugary goods!
Thoughts? As always, I’d love to hear from you! (If you’re shy, you could always email me.)
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Tagged with: 2009 • biodiesel • chemical • eco-friendly • experiment • food • gas station • idea • organic food • planet • price • project • taste • Topia
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I’m behind you all the way Bamboo! Site looks great, photo is a bit too perfect…
da best. Keep it going! Thank you