You probably know by now about the many great benefits of eating soy-based foods, including soy milk and tofu. But did you know that soybeans also provide a more eco friendly alternative to a whole list of fossil-fuel based products that are not always so good for the environment?

It’s preferable to use soy-based products over man-made synthetic materials simply because they are far more likely to be easily biodegradable and non-toxic. They also lessen our dependence on fossil fuels, which isn’t great for the environment–as the BP oil spill disaster and climate change make clear. Take a look at these four soy-based products you may or may not have heard about:

1) Crayons. Your kids probably love their crayons, but they are made of paraffin wax, a petroleum by-product. If that gives you pause, then why encourage its further use? Instead, consider buying soy-based crayons, which are made of soy wax and work just as well for your kids without the environmental hassle.

2) Soy Candles. Traditional candles are likewise made of paraffin wax and pose the same challenge, with the additional problem that this petroleum-based wax gets burned in our homes and in the air we breathe. A soy candle is likewise made of soy wax and burns just as well as regular wax, making for a more eco friendly, less petroleum-based alternative.

3) Solvents. Think of solvents and you might think of some nasty black substance that dissolves anything it touches. But solvents too can be made of soybeans, which as you can imagine is much more environmentally friendly. Soy-based solvents are versatile and can be used for anything from dissolving old wax to cleaning stubborn oil-based paint off paintbrushes.

4) Diesel Additive. Unless you drive a diesel truck you may not have heard of diesel additives. They are generally added to the gas tank to improve performance, reduce engine knocking, improve fuel economy, and the like. Instead of, again, using a petrol-based product, you could use one made from soybeans instead. Not only do you help lower the use of petroleum, but you encourage an agricultural business that is more friendly to the environment than digging deep under the ocean.

These are only four examples among many that show how wonderful soybean is as a crop. From making healthy foods to maintaining a more healthy planet, you should seek out soy-based products whenever you shop–particularly if you are seeking out anything wax based, solvents, or cleaners. The environment will thank you for it!