Eco-friendly umbrella

If recent rain had you scrambling for a new umbrella -- and remembering just how many you’ve had to toss in the trash -- consider this one from Green Home, which may alleviate the guilt. Each part of the umbrella is made from recycled materials, including recycled plastic that is heated and crushed to produce fabric fibers. The handle is 65% shredded wood. When the umbrella is past its prime, just bury it in the soil, and Green Home says it will begin to decompose within three weeks. The umbrella, available in black and green, comes in two folding models and a larger golf-style version, all ranging from $32 to $56. Go to greenhome.com, and click on “clothing,” then “accessories.”

-- Lisa Boone