Even people who used to make fun of tree huggers are getting into the recycling spirit. All this movement ever needed was good, corporate marketing.

Consumers just need to know they can buy “feel-good” products that help the environment, or other cultures. Here’s word on a few:

I’ve always been a fan of cloth rice bags from other countries, used as little purses. Visit bazurabags.com to see a wide variety of stuff holders. I’m toting a summer-ready bag fashioned from a sturdy rice bag and Fun Chum juice bags. One side has an image of golden grains and the other has writing from the Philippines company. Wipe it down after beach use and haul it to the grocer to avoid disposable bags.

Crazy, colorful Its-las-tik totes from whatsurbag-usa.com bounces with you. Hurricane Katrina survivors are making these bags that benefit Hope House in New Orleans. The stretchy cloth resembles work-out gear and is designed to look good and move with you as you go green.

The fresh, green design of a bamboo stalk is the only sign that EcoTowl bamboo is made of that plant and corn. Fibers from these renewable sources make for an attractive, absorbent and washable towel you can use around the house over and over again. I rinsed mine out and it was nearly dry and ready for more when I returned to the kitchen.

The Makes Sense Showerhead owner says its the only self-closing pull chain showerhead in the world designed for residential use. Designed for “responsible” showers, the silver pull chain reminds me of a European flat in wartime, an image I got from the movies, of course. The chain lets you adjust flow for when you need it most and conserve water waste. It really makes a difference to feel green and clean. Visit support@itjustmakessence.net.

A room divided

Half the newsroom people I asked thought a pinto bean dip with cocoa powder, blackbean brownies and a spinach salad with goji or cranberries and cocoa nibs sounded like things they’d love to try. The other half scrunched up their faces.

If you are reading this column, I’d guess you are on the Culinary Thrill Seeking side, with me. Learn how to make “225 irresistible recipes featuring the healthiest and most delicious foods” in Dana Jacobi’s “The Essential Best Foods Cookbook.” Read about what foods are really, really good for you and how to play with them.

I think I’ll make a big batch of bean dip with cocoa and make it my whole supper.

The Calorie King