It Grows On Trees

Ecomagination Campaign Makes Superbowl Comeback

And since GE saw fit last night to run, along with this cool new spot, the ad that it earned an Emmy nomination all the way back in 2007, it may seem a little obvious at this point, but still worth stating:

Ecomagination IS the GE brand.

It is the only way GE is describing and differentiating itself. And that makes for a whole lot of examples for other companies, large or small, with any eco-forward initiative of any scale. Think about it.

It's a real measure of the times — considering that green advertising was essentially absent from last year's broadcast.

Gettin' Hammered, Savin' Planets

Now here's an intoxicating brand: Prairie Vodka.

It's sexy. It's organic. It's even kosher. And even though 900 Minnesotan farmers make it in a cooperative effort, this is one yuppie libation. Okay maybe not yuppie — but the brand certainly targets an up-market demo.

(Note to ethanol critics: see, corn spirits really are good for the planet!)

The year-old vodka brand, part of the Phillips family of spirits, is one of many premium eco-groovy alcohols to hit the market recently, including Eco 360, Square One, Juniper Green, and Caprock. 

We have a special love for Prairie, not only because it is made with organic corn grown and distilled in our backyard, but because it is far and away the coolest brand of the bunch. Props to Minneapolis's Olson for its deliciously refreshing work, with a slightly pear nose and pop-rock finish.

But at $25 retail and $68 delivered, could this be another brand that reinforces some of the problems with green marketing — too expensive, too out of reach for ordinary consumers, a great idea but not practical for the average lush?

Hat tip to MTV Switch.