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10 MUST-HAVE Eco-Friendly Gadgets in 2024

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The year 2023 set a new record for the highest global average temperatures, reaching 1.46°C above pre-industrial averages. This surpassed the previous record set in 2016 by 0.13°C.

With these records at an all-time high, many businesses and homeowners are making simple, eco-friendly tweaks. Although these solutions are deemed simple, the number of households and companies implementing them will undeniably make an impact. 

Replacing your energy-consuming gadgets at home with eco-friendly gadgets is one step to sustainable living. Here are 10 environmentally-friendly gadgets to start with.

1. Solar-powered Chargers

Charge your gadgets with solar-powered chargers! Packing a solar-powered charger means you no longer have to rely on electricity when you run out of juice. If you live in a tropical country with sunlight on most months, then take advantage of the sun! It’s the best source of renewable energy. These chargers comprise solar panels that contain PV (photovoltaic) cell blocks that transform sunlight into electricity. Most solar-powered chargers contain 12 volts. However, some have the capacity of 24V, 36V, and so on.

2. EcoFlow River Portable Power Station

portable power station

This is the outdoor and emergency portable battery pack for you. It’s fast charging with an EcoFlow X-Stream technology that lets you charge this gadget from zero to eighty percent in an hour. You can fully charge this in 90 minutes, which is four to five times faster than other battery packs. It also offers all the necessary ports, such as USB-A, pure sine wave AC outlet, and 12V DC car port. Last but not least, this portable battery pack is portable and lightweight, weighing only 6.3 pounds—easy to store in your backpack! 

3. Google Nest Thermostat

The Google Nest Thermostat is one of the most reliable eco-friendly gadgets with an ENERGY STAR certification. It’s perfect for household or office use and helps optimize heat and cold in a space to reduce energy consumption. This thermostat shuts off when you leave, ensuring you don’t waste energy on cooling or heating an empty home or office. Another brilliant feature is the ability to control the thermostat temperature from a laptop, tablet, or phone through its remote control. It also offers HVAC monitoring and alerts you if something isn’t up to par with your heating and cooling equipment at home. 

4. WakaWaka Power+

waka waka power

This is the eco-friendly tool you need for your outdoor adventures! The WakaWaka Power+ is a solar-powered flashlight and mobile phone charger tailored for off-grid areas. So, no more worrying about running out of juice when camping for days in the jungle! It has a sensitive solar panel on each device covered in naked solar film. This side of the solar panel absorbs even the dullest sunlight. The flashlights also come with twin LEDS with adjustable brightness between five and 75 lumens. Plus, the phone charger is at 2200mAh, which is perfect for a single charge on your Android or Apple phone!

5. LIFX LED Smart Bulbs

These energy-efficient bulbs are next level, with dimming features! The LIFX LED Smart Bulbs are the household bulb of your dreams where you can control light customization via the smartphone app. Polychrome technology bulbs can emit multiple colors simultaneously, enhancing room decor by shining different colors on a wall while providing white light. These bulbs offer voice control, scheduling, scenes, effects, and integration with Apple’s adaptive lighting, Alexa’s light alarms, and Google’s Sleep/Wake features. They are compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit/Siri, and Hey Google and are easy to set up. Just screw in, open your preferred app, and follow the prompts! 

6. Hydrao Smart Shower Head

hydrao smart shower head

Whether building a new home or renovating an old one, make this a priority on your upgrade checklist. Replacing your old shower head with the Hydrao Smart Shower Head will save you money and make Mother Nature happy. This Smart shower head lets you track water usage, changing colors to remind users of shorter showers. This way, you reduce energy consumption for heating. It’s a plug-and-play eco-friendly device that doesn’t need a battery. 

7. Sodastream

SodaStream allows users to make their carbonated water at home, eliminating the use of single-use plastic bottles and lowering transportation-related carbon emissions. With a simple button push, you can enjoy fresh sparkling water. The kit includes a sparkling water maker, a 60L CO2 cylinder, and a 1-liter dishwasher-safe bottle. It’s energy-efficient, powered by a CO2 cylinder that carbonates up to 60 liters of water. The easy-to-use snap-lock bottle insertion system makes carbonation quick. Compatible with all SodaStream flavors and bottles (except the glass carafe), SodaStream Art machines work exclusively with the Quick Connect CO2 cylinder.

8. Symphonized Bamboo Bluetooth Portable Speaker

bamboo bluetooth speaker

This bamboo-made portable speaker is made of natural wood, offering premium sound. It provides crystal clear acoustics and deep bass due to natural wood’s properties. It’s also quick to connect and easy to use. Plus, it’s universally compatible with any Bluetooth-enabled device. You can enjoy up to six hours of playtime from this small speaker and fully charge it again in two hours!

9. BioLite CampStove 2

The BioLite CampStove 2 is a portable stove that transforms heat from burning wood into electricity, enabling device charging and reducing reliance on disposable batteries and fuel. It uses renewable biomass fuels like twigs and pinecones, creating smokeless flames ideal for cooking. A thermoelectric generator produces three watts of power for real-time charging and stores energy in a 3,200 mAh battery. The stove boils a liter of water in 4.5 minutes, features a USB port for device charging, and includes a pot stand, folding legs, and an LED FlexLight. 

10. LifeStraw Filter Drinking Straw

lifestraw personal water filter

This is the best stainless steel straw you can carry around that is environmentally efficient. It removes microplastics, dirt, cloudiness, and particles about 99.99%! It also protects you from parasites and bacteria! The reliable filter can be used with a thousand liters of water, estimated at one year of daily use. It’s made from high-quality stainless steel, and the mouthpiece is silicone-based. This reusable straw also only weighs three ounces and comes in a carry case. 

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Top 10 Best Places to Buy a Mid Century Modern Office Chair

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What was once old is new again: mid century modern is back in style. From architecture to furniture, the postwar look is in, and the hype extends all the way to office chairs.

Do you need a mid century modern office chair in your life? If so, there’s plenty to choose from. Your office chair should be tailored to your style, whether you like luxury, utility, or something in between.

That’s why we’ve put together our 10 favorite places to find your ideal mid century modern office chair.

What is mid century modern design?

After World War II, spirits were high in the US, and new technology was taking the country by storm. Mid century modern refers to the design concepts that came about during this time.

As opposed to the frilly, ornate designs of classical furnishings, mid century modern designs are angular, material, and functional. Wood is a common design element, especially teak. Mid century modern furniture may also have materials like glass, vinyl, and metal. Designs are simple and geometric, with bold accent colors to make them pop.

The mid century modern aesthetic never really went away, but it’s made a noted comeback in recent years. Some have chalked it up to Boomer and Gen X nostalgia, others point to mid-century-set shows like Mad Men and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.

Why should I buy a mid century modern office chair?

A mid century modern office design
source: Modsy

Mid century modern is the perfect fusion of style and utility. If you want to cultivate an office space that commands respect without being ostentatious, mid century modern is the style for you.

When it comes to office chairs, an MCM one is often made with sturdy wood and vinyl. They combine the ergonomics of a modern office chair with old-fashioned grace.

If you’re concerned with utility and utility only, a more bog-standard office chair may suit you. But a mid century modern office chair is great for someone who wants to wow colleagues with a mature, thoughtful business space.

Where can I get a mid century modern office chair?

1) Wayfair

mid-century office chair

When it comes to furniture, Wayfair offers the best of both worlds. Their goods, including their mid century modern office chairs, are stylish and affordable. You can get a sturdy task chair for less than $100 or a more distinguished seat for less than $350.

MCM office chair examples: Dovray ($126), Bradford ($139), Lithonia ($133)

2) France & Son

mid-century office chair

Wayfair’s chairs are affordable, but France & Son is the perfect option for luxury shoppers. Their mid century modern office chairs are robust and sleekly designed. If you dress to impress and enjoy the finer things in life, these are the chairs for you.

MCM office chair example: Brooks ($695)

3) Houzz

mid-century office chair

Started as a community for people to share home decor tips, Houzz has become a great ecommerce platform for finding stylish furniture. They’re more known for home decor than desk chairs, but they have plenty of great, affordable finds if you know where to look.

MCM office chair examples: Arvilla ($173), Rathburn ($259)

4) Laura Davidson

mid-century office chair

The Laura Davidson collection offers a fairly limited selection of classic office furniture. Still, there’s a reason they’re trusted by big-wigs like Apple, Disney, and Salesforce. Their chairs are sturdy and beautifully designed, reimagining classic Eames and Knoll designs.

MCM office chair examples: Rockefeller ($275), SOHO II Soft Pad ($450)

5) Icons of Manhattan

mid-century office chair

Icons of Manhattan has a simple philosophy: do one thing, and do it right. Their office chairs are handcrafted from premium materials and tailored to a mid-century modern style. If you want that Mad Men energy in your office (hopefully with a lot less angst), these are the chairs for you.

MCM office chair example: Ribbed Medium ($219)

6) Amazon

mid-century office chair

Yes, the internet’s premier shopping destination has a robust collection of mid century modern office chairs. Like with most products, their selection of seats is vast and can be hit or miss. Still, they’ve got stunning chairs available for any style, whether you care about comfort, class, or ergonomics.

MCM office chair examples: IDS Home Modern ($219), Art Leon MCM Swivel ($139)

7) AllModern

mid-century office chair

AllModern’s collection of desk chairs and other furniture truly embodies the mid century modern spirit. Their work is tight, angular, and functional above all. They’re part of the Wayfair family and they traffic in a number of modern styles, but their sleek chairs are perfect for any mid century modern space.

MCM office chair examples: Frederick ($229), Kealey ($349)

8) Overstock

mid-century office chair

Overstock is known as a one-stop shop for quality home goods at sub-wholesale prices. If you want a spiffy mid century modern office chair that won’t break the bank, they’re the first place to look. While they’re somewhat less reliable than the more upscale platforms on this list, their selection is massive.

MCM office chair example: Joseph Modern ($163)

9) Walmart

mid-century office chair

Hayneedle’s selection of mid-century modern office chairs falls somewhere between the minimal Laura Davidson and the endless Amazon catalog. Their array of mid-century designs is affordable and versatile, with chairs that match almost any style. While they may be part of the Walmart family, these chairs are anything but second-rate.

MCM office chair example: Waleaf ($97)

10) Target

mid-century office chair

Why splurge when you can save? As usual, Target is a hidden gem, offering a sturdy selection of mid century modern office chairs for some of the cheapest prices out there. Many of the chairs they offer are from the same designers as these other stores—Christopher Knight, LumiSource, Armen Living, etc.—at reduced prices.

MCM office chair example: Lombardi ($136)

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Lifestyle

Best Gift Guide for Men: Perfect Gifts for Every Occasion

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You think you know your man, but when it comes to giving him gifts, you’re at a loss. To make your life easier, we came up with a gift guide for men to suit every occasion.

1. Scratch Off Map of the World Map

gift guide for men gift guide for men

To the wanderlust in your life, give him this map of the world from Etsy. He can scratch off the fantastic places he has been to. You can personalize it to make it more special.

2. Wave Duo Vibrating Roller

earbuds gift guide for men

This ergonomically designed massager contours to the neck, back, and spine to give relief from everyday aches and pains. It vibrates and waves to deliver pressure where he needs it.

3. Ring Toss Game

ring toss gift guide for men

A gift that he can enjoy with you and the whole gang, this Ring Toss Game is sure to provide lots of fun. It’s perfect for parties, camping trips, or picnics.

4. Personal Concrete Fireplace

concrete fireplace gift guide for men

Baby, light his fire with this unique table fireplace. The FLIKR fireplace is portable, easy to use, and an excellent conversation piece. Its warm and soft light lets you toast a marshmallow!

5. Lululemon ABC Jogger Shorter Length

gray jogger pants gift guide for men

The most comfortable sweatpants ever! These Jogger pants are designed to sit just above your guy’s ankles. It uses quick-drying and wrinkle-resistant materials that are ideal for indoor and outdoor wear.

6. Marvel Infinity Gauntlet

lego infinity gauntlet gift guide for men

In times of boredom, let your man pass away the time by enjoying this LEGO Marvel Super Heroes Infinity Gauntlet. It is 590 pieces of build-and-display fun and challenge. 

7. LARQ Bottle PureVis™

water bottle gift guide for men

Give your guy the gift of the world’s first self-cleaning water bottle and water purification system. This LARQ Bottle PureVis gets rid of up to 99% of bio-contaminants, making it safe for hot or cold drinks.

8. The Daily Carry-On with Pocket from Away

luggage gift guide for men

Let him travel with style using Away’s The Daily Carry-On with Pocket. Its roomy interior lets him carry multiple items while the pocket can hold his laptop and other essentials.

9. Crosley Radio Cruiser Deluxe Turntable

gift guide for men

This vintage-looking turntable has the technology to play his records. The Crosley Voyager Record Player is lightweight and ready to play your 33 1/3, 45, and 78 RPM records anytime, anywhere.

10. Bowers & Wilkins Black PX7 S2 headphones

headphones gift guide for men

To complement the turntable above, give him these Black PX7 S2 headphones by Bowers & Wilkins. It has a noise-canceling feature that will let him get lost in his music.

11. Dad Grass Hemp CBD Pre-Rolled Joints

joints gift guide for men

For a totally legit way of escaping reality, these Dad Grass Hemp CBD Pre-Rolled Joints are perfect! Let him relax after a stressful day at the office with a soothing CBD experience.

12. Personalized Light When Name Farts Soy Candle

candle gift guide for men

Give him the laugh of his life with this Personalized Light When Name Farts Soy Candle. Place his name on this eco-friendly, carbon-neutral, and all-natural soy wax candle. 

13. Steve McQueen Folding Sunglasses from Persol

sunglasses gift guide for men

These cool and classy Steve McQueen-inspired folding sunglasses will surely add that extra dapper to any man in your life. Its polarized lenses come in four fabulous colors.

14. Mac Mighty Professional Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife

chef's knife gift guide for men

For the guy who knows his way around the kitchen, this Mac Mighty Professional Hollow Edge Chef’s Knife is the ideal gift. This lightweight knife is suitable for everyday use.

15. Craft Beer Club Subscription

craft beer gift guide for men

The gift that keeps on giving—a subscription to the Craft Beer Club. Your man will get to enjoy twelve different bottles of beer from various breweries across the country.

16. TAG Heuer Connected Watch

watch gift guide for men

If you want to give the gift of ultimate luxury, this TAG Heuer Connected Watch is a perfect choice. Swiss craftsmanship is all about class, style, and elegance.

17. Oud Wood Parfum by Tom Ford

perfume gift guide for men

At work or play, this Oud Wood Parfum by Tom Ford will make him smell and feel charming and sophisticated. This is sure to make him more enjoyable to hug and cuddle with.

18. VANS Authentic 44 Deck DX

red shoes gift guide for men

Add color to his wardrobe with this pair of VANS Authentic 44 Deck DX. Made with high-quality materials for extra comfort and style and a look that’s a classic.

19. Loewe Bifold Wallet in Soft Grained Calfskin

wallet gift guide for men

Help him keep his billfolds in this uber-stylish wallet. The Loewe Bifold Wallet in Soft Grained Calfskin is the epitome of splendor and elegance without going overboard.

20. Bird Brew Seed Feeder

bird seed feeder gift guide for men

Don’t be fooled by the looks of this unique gift. This Bird Brew Seed Feeder will remind you of a tall bottle of booze, but in reality, it will fill the birdies’ tummies.

21. Whiskey Glasses with Raised Topographic Impression by Whiskey Peaks

whiskey glasses gift guide for men

For a unique and exciting gift, this set of Whiskey Glasses with Raised Topographic Impression takes the cake. Inside are impressions of the world’s most iconic mountains, making the drink a better experience for him and his friends.

22. Fuzzy Ink Beautiful Outdoor Starry Night Sky Art Print

paint gift guide for men

For adventure lovers, this outdoor night sky print from Fuzzy Ink is a perfect gift! It will leave him dreaming about his next adventure. Cat not included.

23. Gingko Smart Moon Lamp

moon lamp gift guide for men

Show him you love him to the moon and back with this Smart Moon Lamp from Gingko. It adds light and warmth to his desktop or bedside table. Whether it’s a boat cruise or a day of spa pampering, this is something he’ll truly cherish.

24. Barnett’s Gourmet Chocolate Biscotti Gift Basket

chocolate gift guide for men

Let him enjoy decadence with this gift basket filled with Barnett’s gourmet chocolate biscotti. It’s two pounds of decadence that he can share and enjoy with you.

25. Choose Their Own Adventure eGift Card

virgin experiences gift guide for men

If you find it hard to think about what to give, this Virgin Experience eGift card may just be the ticket. It lets them choose the adventure they want for a memorable and unique experience.

Final Thoughts

No one knows your man better than you do. But sometimes, getting a unique gift can be mind-boggling. This men’s gift guide includes a wide array of one-of-a-kind items that are sure to be unforgettable. And for other men’s gift guides, check out more here at Owner’s Mag!

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Digital Nomads Flock To These 10 Amazing Tax-Free Cities

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The rise of remote work has paved the way for many to gain freedom to live and work from anywhere in the world. But for many work-from-home advocates, the right destination can also mean gaining financial benefits aside from having their dream lifestyle. This is where tax-free cities for digital nomads come in. Maximize your earnings, reduce business expenses, and enjoy a high-quality lifestyle when you relocate to the ten best tax-free cities:

The Benefits of Living in a Tax-Free City

If you are a digital nomad looking for a change of scenery, you’ll get the following benefits when you move to these destinations:

  • Tax Savings: For entrepreneurs and remote workers, you’ll save on taxes when you move to any of the cities included in this list. Without paying income taxes, you can keep more of your earnings.
  • Business-Friendly Incentives: Many tax-free cities offer favorable corporate policies, residency programs, and economic incentives. Not only will you have the opportunity to work in a setting that suits your lifestyle, but you’ll also reap financial benefits.
  • Improved Financial Freedom: Lower tax burdens offer greater financial flexibility. This enables you to enjoy a higher standard of living, travel for leisure, and invest in your future without excessive government deductions. 

Top 10 Amazing Tax-Free Cities for Digital Nomads

1. Dubai, UAE

Photo Credit: Aleksandar Pasaric on Pexels

Emerging as one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads, Dubai has a zero personal income tax policy and a thriving business environment. As part of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai offers a state-of-the-art infrastructure, fast internet, and a well-connected global hub with flights to the world’s major cities. The city’s Virtual Working Program grants digital nomads a one-year residency visa that lets them live in Dubai while working for an overseas company.

2. Bermuda

Famous for its stunning beaches with crystal-clear waters, the British Territory of Bermuda makes working remotely even better as it doesn’t impose income taxes. Its digital nomad visa has no income requirement but will ask to see your financial status. This is to prove that you can support yourself on the island without having a job there. It also allows foreign workers to live and work for up to one year. The abundance of outdoor activities, reliable internet, and plenty of co-working spaces provide an excellent balance of work and play.

3. Croatia

An increasingly popular destination for digital nomads, Croatia is a favorite destination for digital nomads. While it isn’t entirely tax-free, its tax policies and dedicated digital nomad visa exempt you from income tax on foreign-earned income. Remote workers who qualify for this country’s Digital Nomad Residence Permit can enjoy this benefit. In addition, Croatia’s low cost of living allows you to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle while working remotely.

4. Antigua and Barbuda

Photo Credit: Julia Volk on Pexels

A beautiful Caribbean nation, Antigua and Barbuda offers zero personal income tax for digital nomads. This twin-island nation has stunning beaches, warm weather, and a welcoming expat community that makes it an ideal place if you’re looking to embrace the island life. It introduced the Nomad Digital Residence (NDR) visa to attract more remote workers. This allows you to live and work for up to two years without paying local income taxes.

5. Panama

Thanks to its territorial tax system, Panama is now a popular destination for digital nomads and entrepreneurs looking to enjoy foreign-earned income that isn’t taxed. Its various visa options include the Short Stay Visa for Remote Workers, which lets you live and work for up to 18 months. It requires proof of employment or self-employment with a minimum income of $36,000. This nation offers modern infrastructure, high-speed internet, and an active expat community.

6. Grenada

Earning the moniker “Spice Isle” of the Caribbean, Grenada offers zero personal income tax for digital nomads. It has business-friendly policies, breath-taking landscapes, and a relaxed lifestyle, ideal for remote workers looking for financial and individual freedom. In lieu of a dedicated digital nomad visa, you can take advantage of its long-stay visa options or explore its Citizenship by Investment Program, which gives you the chance to obtain permanent residency.

7. Montserrat

Another tax-free Caribbean hideaway, Montserrat, is a favorite of many digital nomads thanks to its zero personal income tax. Its lush landscape, volcanic scenery, and friendly local community offer superb work-life balance away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Its digital nomad visa, the Montserrat Remote Work Stamp, lets you live and work in Montserrat for up to 12 months. All you need to do is provide proof of employment with an annual income of at least $70,000.

8. Barbados

Photo Credit: Blue Ox Studio on Pexels

Having positioned itself as a top destination for remote workers, Barbados offers zero personal income tax by introducing its Barbados Welcome Stamp. This visa lets you live and work in Barbados for up to 12 months, making it an excellent option for those looking for financial and lifestyle benefits. To qualify for the Welcome Stamp, you must earn at least $50,000 annually and provide proof of remote employment or self-employment. Its hassle-free application process lets you enjoy the duty-free import of personal belongings and many other benefits.

9. Anguilla

A dream destination for many digital nomads, Anguilla is another tax-free Caribbean paradise. It offers no personal income, capital gains, or corporate tax for individuals. It introduced the Work From Anguilla program to attract more location-independent professionals. This grants them a 12-month remote work visa and access to high-speed internet, modern infrastructure, and a relaxed, safe environment. Its pristine beaches, low population density, and welcoming community make it the perfect place for productivity and leisure.

10. Uruguay

Another South American hub for digital nomads, Uruguay offers a territorial tax system that does not impose a tax on foreign-earned income. In addition to letting you enjoy a stable and high-quality lifestyle, Uruguay provides a five-year tax holiday on foreign income, an appealing offer for long-term stays. Uruguay’s excellent infrastructure, reliable internet, and active expat community let you establish legal residency via the country’s Straightforward Residency Program.

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