From taking erotic pleasure in sunbathing naked, to putting veggies up their bits, to considering themselves to be in a sexual relationship with the earth, eco-sexuals are trying to save the planet and have orgasms while doing it.
Being an eco-sexual is part art, part environmental activism and part, well, sex. And honestly, if it’s all between consenting grown-ups, good for them.
Most of us confine our naked encounters with the earth to the realm of the occasional skinny dip. But there are still some eco-friendly things we can do in our sex lives.
Don’t buy dodgy sex toys
Jelly-type dildos, vibrators and plugs are often loaded with phthalates and other nasties. Phthalates are plastic softeners that can leach chemicals into your body when you use them, and into the environment when you clean or dispose of them. Sadly, there’s very little requirement for sex toy manufacturers to declare what their products contain. In fact, novelty sex toy manufacturers tend to stamp “silicon” on anything they want, accurately or otherwise, and since most politicians are uncomfortable saying the word “vibrator,” not a lot gets done about it. So save your pennies for something better. Toys made from genuine silicone, hard non-porous plastic, glass, metal and wood are safe bets.
Use sustainable condoms
Most condoms and their wrappers are bad for the environment, and too often they end up in our waterways (ever flushed one down the loo? Now you can join me in feeling guilty about that). Fortunately, the market for all things sustainable has extended to what we put on our junk, and a quick internet search will give you heaps of brands to choose from.
Use organic lube
Lubricants are often petroleum-based − literally made out of fossil fuels. Commonsense Organics stocks a lovely range of organic lubes called Bonk, and you can find more options (including hypoallergenics) online and in reputable adult shops.
Take off the PVC
The manufacture of PVC or polyvinyl chloride gives off dioxin – one of the deadliest man-made poisons. It’s really hard to dispose of and can act as a cumulative toxin, which hangs around in your body for a long time. If your kinks involve all things sleek and shiny, consider switching to rubber or ethically-farmed leather.
Consider long-term, multi-purpose sex investments (sexvestments?)
Do you use coconut oil for cooking or cosmetic use? Congrats, that’s a lubricant. While research is unclear whether it affects condoms adversely, coconut oil can be used for massage and stuff that doesn’t require condoms. Want to invest in some kink equipment? Save up and buy something that will last. Fluffy plastic handcuffs are for really bad hen nights, not the bedroom.
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