Just in time for spring, Wal-Mart announces a program to create rubber garden mulch from recycled tires, a step in the company's ongoing commitments to reaching its zero waste goal and providing access to affordable eco-friendly products. The Majestic rubber mulch mini nuggets hit Wal-Mart store and Sam's Club shelves this week, joining a variety of eco-friendly products already available for the spring season.

More than 2.5 million tires will be recycled by Wal-Mart in 2008 to manufacture the eco-friendly garden mulch that is ideal for landscaping and covering play grounds, pools and pond areas. The rubber mulch is available in red or black, is non-toxic and latex-free, inhibits weed growth and does not compact or blow away, making it a great alternative to traditional mulch for environmentally conscious gardeners.

As consumers prepare to enjoy more time outdoors, Wal-Mart offers everything families need to create a fun and eco-friendly environment to celebrate spring and summer at home at a great value. From garden supplies to outdoor furniture to organic foods, Wal-Mart is the one-stop shop for consumers to prepare for a "green" spring season.

With planting season quickly approaching, Wal-Mart makes creating an environmentally conscious garden simple with several products. The Majestic rubber mulch joins rubber garden edging and tree rings already available at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club -- all made from 100 percent recycled tire rubber. In addition, gardeners can find environmentally safer pesticides and plants in biodegradable pots.

Families also can create an Earth-friendly outdoor entertaining haven beyond the garden with products like Forest Stewardship Council certified outdoor furniture. Barbeques and backyard picnics also can benefit the environment by incorporating organic fruits and vegetables, and all natural and organic meats available at select Wal-Mart Supercenters.

A variety of eco-friendly outdoor products are available in Wal-Mart stores, Sam's Clubs and at walmart.com at unbeatable values:

• Majestic rubber mulch mini nuggets ($5.47 for a 20 lb. bag)
• 8' Rubber edging ($9.87)
• 24" Rubber tree rings ($9.87)
• Garden Safe Fungicide 3-in-1 certified organic spray ($5.88)
• Bonnie Plants Vegetable 5" Peat Pots reduce waste with biodegradable pots that can be placed directly in soil ($2.97)
• Forest Stewardship Council certified Home Trends(R) outdoor furniture pieces including rocking chairs and a folding chairs and table set (starting at $19.97)
• Forest Stewardship Council certified Delahey Six-Piece Outdoor Wood Dining Set ($368.00)
• Solar powered outdoor lighting (ranging from $14.84 - $59.97)