Leaf Personal Light | Here's a smart machine: looks like a robot, obeys like a robot, and in fact, it's truly bright. Just slide a finger along the base of the Leaf Personal Light to select the level of intensity and the blend of cool and warm light to fit or change your mood. The armature of its dramatic form can be raised or lowered as well. Burning 40 percent less energy than a compact fluorescent bulb or a regular light bulb, and manufactured according to Herman Miller's Design for the Environment protocol, the Leaf Light is kind to both the senses and the earth. $525.

Herman Miller. 1-800-646-4400,
www.hermanmiller.com.

Flip-Flop Mats | Once they've stamped the foot print at the flip-flop factory, what happens to all the scraps? Viva Terra fashions the remnants into colorful mats for the kitchen, mud room or front porch. Durable, fanciful and no two alike, the no-glide flip-flop mats welcome guests at the door or prevent slipping in front of the sink. Available in four sizes, including a runner. $29-$79.

Viva Terra. 1-800-233-6011,
www.vivaterra.com.

Everpure H-300 Water Purification System | Purer than some brands of bottled water is straight-from-the-tap water filtered through a six layer filtration sandwich to reduce lead, volatile organic compounds, dirt, cloudiness and the taste and odor of chlorine. Installed below the kitchen sink and attached to a stainless steel faucet, the H-300 Water Purification System supplies healthful water that is good for the environment and avoids non-degradable bottles. $370-$420.

Everpure. 1-800-323-7873,
www.everpure.com.