Tag Archives: Sustainable Designs

Can QR Code-driven Incentives Solve Fashion’s Trillion-Dollar Waste Problem? This Company Thinks So…

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Fashion still remains perhaps the biggest offender when it comes to waste and emissions generated by any given industry. Every year, 40 million tonnes of clothes find their way into landfills and third-world countries that are less than equipped to deal with this onslaught of wasted fabric. The solutions haven’t really matched up to the scale of problems either – thrifting still hasn’t made the impact that it promised to make, and brands are doing what they always do – using greenwashing to make their products look less wasteful than they already are. However, one company seems to be sitting on a potentially game-changing idea – incentivize users to slow down fashion by using a Technology platform leveraging unique QR Codes. SIXR is that app-based fashion technology platform that’s partnering with garment companies to provide meaningful incentives to end users to use their clothes for longer and to recycle them right and doing all this by using unique QR codes that will track the entire lifecycle of the garment from design and production to end of life or start of a new life.

Designer: SIXR Team

Click Here to Buy Now: $69. Hurry, only 217/250 SIXR Hoodies left!

Consumers buy the clothes through the SIXR app, wear them for their estimated life, and when their life cycle reaches its end, they scan the QR code that helps them return the garment to SIXR. Once the garment is returned to one of SIXR’s recycling partners, consumers get actual monetary rewards in the form of discounts on their next purchase. Using financial incentives instead of the ‘feel good’ factor of buying sustainable clothing, SIXR hopes to create a fashion recycling movement and a circular economy that sticks. SIXR and their recycling partners will ensure that the garments are put through a rigorous paradigm of Reduce, Reuse, Recyle, Refuse, Rethink and Repair which are the 6R’s from where the company got their name SIXR.

“We’re stuck in a linear apparel economy. Take->Make->Waste,” says Gagan Singh, CEO and Co-founder of SIXR going into details on how SIXR will solve the Trillion-Dollar fashion crisis. The problem with the linear flow of garments is that there’s a defined entry and exit, causing new raw materials to end up in landfills instead of being recycled. SIXR proposes a circular economy where material keeps traveling within the same loop multiple times instead of becoming waste. This reduces the waste problem, but it also reduces the creation problem that requires fresh resources and materials every single time.

The problem has a simple solution according to SIXR. Luigi Ferrara, Chair, Brookfield Sustainability Institute, George Brown College says “There’s truly no incentive for recycling clothes, which is why most people don’t do it. Moreover, even for the people who want to, there’s no fixed system for doing so. There’s no ‘waste bin’ for recycling fashion, and sure, some of us could go to the Salvation Army, but then again, there’s a lack of a financial incentive to just give away your clothes. SIXR’s business model has an effective fix for all those issues.”

Receive up to 12% of the garment’s cost as incentives, because good choices should be rewarded.

“Financial incentives work,” Gagan says, pointing out how the alcohol and soft drinks bottle industry sees a whopping 96% return rate. Copper, tin, and cast iron all see returns too, because of the financial incentive attached to them. SIXR brings that same incentive to clothes too, by allowing people to scan QR codes on their clothes to help activate a return process. Once the clothes are returned, people are given a financial reward in the form of discounts on their next purchase. This incentive drives the spirit of returning clothes after years of wearing them instead of simply discarding them or turning them into washcloths and rags.

Secure Pocket

Vijay Thomas, early investor and Chair of the board of SIXR says” The ‘QR Code’ driven incentive model oversimplifies the genius of SIXR’s solution. SIXR will curate sustainable brands and sustainable product lines from mainstream brands and will work with them right from the design stage to help with making the garments as sustainable as possible with principles like multi use of garments, sustainable materials, ethical labor practices, transparent supply chain, reduce returns through digital try on and timeless fashion. This helps SIXR with not just getting the sustainable brands and products on their platform but since all the information will be encapsulated inside the QR code on each garment, it will help with sorting the apparel based on the fabric type, color and accessories, which is arguably the biggest problem with recycling garments. The QR codes help SIXR create a more organized inventory of returned clothes, which can then either be fixed and resold, or recycled much more efficiently into yarn for the next set of garments, helping plug both the creation and the waste segments of the linear economy, turning it into a circular one.”

The uniqueness of the SIXR solution lies in the fact that it’s managed to build out an entire fashion ecosystem around the problem. Thrifting is easy but it doesn’t take care of torn or old garments. Recycling is hard because consumers don’t know how to. Moreover, neither has the solid financial incentive that SIXR is promising. The company’s launching its app alongside its first garment, the SIXR ‘For Tomorrow’ hoodie. Buying the hoodie will set you on SIXR’s recycling journey as its platform expands to include other brands and garment styles in the future.

Click Here to Buy Now: $69. Hurry, only 217/250 SIXR Hoodies left!

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Tree with Solar Panels and Wind Turbines gives Nature-Inspired Clean Energy

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In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, New World Wind has unveiled its revolutionary Aeroleaf Hybrid technology—a micro-wind turbine shaped like a tree, combining the forces of wind and solar energy to provide a clean and unlimited power source. This innovative approach not only meets the growing demand for electricity but also addresses environmental concerns associated with traditional energy production methods.

Designer: New World Wind

The conventional methods of electricity production, often reliant on burning fossil fuels, contribute to environmental degradation and climate change. New World Wind’s Aeroleaf Hybrid offers a compelling alternative by seamlessly integrating wind and solar power. The tree-shaped turbines are equipped with rotating leaves that capture wind energy, complemented by solar panels at the base, ensuring a continuous and efficient energy production process.

New World Wind draws inspiration from the beauty of nature, ensuring that the Aeroleaf Hybrid blends harmoniously with both urban and green landscapes. Unlike conventional wind turbines and solar panels, these tree-shaped energy generators appear as if they naturally grew in their surroundings. This unique design feature allows for a more aesthetically pleasing integration into various environments.

New World Wind’s commitment to green energy is evident in its global installations. The first Aeroleaf Hybrid, welcomed in Birmingham, UK, stands tall on a hill, showcasing its ability to harness wind and solar power in unison. The collaboration with Tom Tits Experiment, a science museum in Sweden, further emphasizes the technology’s versatility and its potential to power significant institutions with clean electricity.

A variant of the Aeroleaf Hybrid without Solar Panels

Recognizing the diverse energy needs of consumers, New World Wind offers three variations of the Aeroleaf Hybrid—Wind Tree, Wind Palm, and Wind Bush. The Wind Tree, with its numerous rotating leaves, is suitable for larger spaces and can even serve as a multifunctional lamp post or charging station for electric vehicles. The Wind Palm and Wind Bush cater to different scales, providing flexibility for installation in various settings, from public gardens to smaller neighborhoods.

New World Wind’s Aeroleaf (Hybrid) technology is based on a patented micro-wind turbine with a leaf-shaped double blade and a vertical axis. This synchronous micro-generator with permanent magnets allows for installation in diverse locations, including rooftops, terraces, pylons, and low-wind areas. The technology, with a single Aeroleaf generating a minimum of 300 watts, has already been deployed in 130 locations worldwide, spanning countries like Spain, the Netherlands, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Portugal, Nigeria, France, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States.

Apart from its functional benefits, the Aeroleaf Hybrid also offers a customizable experience. Consumers can choose from various color options, allowing the turbines to seamlessly integrate with their surroundings. This level of personalization enhances the technology’s appeal and further encourages the adoption of green energy solutions.

By mimicking the elegance of nature, this technology not only provides a sustainable energy source but also exemplifies the potential for beauty and functionality to coexist in our pursuit of a greener tomorrow.

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Eco-Friendly Shampoo Bottle Dissolves After Use, Leaving Zero Waste

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In a world grappling with the environmental repercussions of excessive plastic use, the need for sustainable alternatives has never been more pressing. Packaging waste, predominantly composed of plastic, poses a significant threat to our ecosystems. As we seek innovative solutions for a healthier planet, Philippine creative agency BBDO Guerrero has taken a bold step by sculpting vibrant shampoo bars into Dissolving Bottles, presenting an ingenious solution to the pervasive issue of plastic pollution.

Designer: BBDO Guerrero

The Dissolving Bottle shampoo bars are not just a practical alternative; they are a symbol of commitment to a sustainable and plastic-free future. The concept is simple yet revolutionary – as users lather up and wet the Dissolving Bottle, it gradually diminishes in size until it disappears, leaving no trace behind. This innovative approach eliminates the need for traditional toiletry containers, offering a convenient and eco-friendly solution for daily hygiene routines.

Introduced in 2021, the Dissolving Bottle has recently expanded its reach to several countries in Europe through a partnership with LUORO GmbH, a Cologne-based e-commerce company. The bottle-shaped shampoo bars, distributed under LUORO’s Plain B brand, are not just a visual marvel but also carry a powerful message. By adopting the familiar shape of a typical shampoo container, BBDO Guerrero aims to make the transition from plastic bottles to shampoo bars seamless for users.

David Guerrero, Creative Chairman at BBDO Guerrero, emphasizes that the Dissolving Bottle was conceptualized as a response to the escalating plastic pollution crisis. The personal care industry, a major contributor to environmental issues, produces over 500 billion single-use plastic items annually. To address this problem, BBDO Guerrero chose a design that not only promotes sustainability but also incorporates witty slogans on the shampoo bars, such as ‘Recedes quicker than your hair,’ ‘vanishes into thin air,’ ‘leaves nothing behind,’ and ‘guaranteed not to last,’ serving as comical reminders of the benefits of choosing plastic-free alternatives.

While the environmental impact of Dissolving Bottle Shampoo Bars is undeniably positive, questions arise regarding their commercial viability. The entire bottle serving as solidified shampoo requires careful handling, as exposure to water could initiate premature dissolution. To address this logistical concern, there might be a need to explore alternative packaging materials which will be interesting to learn.

Moreover, the shift from traditional soaps to liquid body washes, driven by ease of use and convenience, poses a challenge for the widespread adoption of solid shampoo bars. The need to incorporate essential information typically printed on packaging into the Dissolving Bottle’s design further adds a layer of complexity.

Marketing strategies play a pivotal role in bridging this gap, and the strategies employed by BBDO Guerrero are commendable and hold the potential to capture consumer attention. Offering an intriguing narrative that aligns with environmental consciousness.

As these Dissolving Bottle shampoo bars make their way into the European market, priced at a reasonable starting point of 5.99 EUR, it remains to be seen whether consumers will embrace this innovative solution to reduce plastic waste. The success of such eco-friendly initiatives depends not only on their environmental benefits but also on their ability to cater to the evolving preferences and habits of consumers. The Dissolving Bottle represents a commendable step towards a more sustainable future, and its journey in the consumer market will undoubtedly be closely watched.

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Reduce Green House Emissions by Using These Colorful Paints instead of Air Conditioners

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The interplay between color, light, and temperature has long been a subject of scientific exploration. The colors we perceive are the result of how objects absorb and reflect light, with white being the most reflective and black being the least. Harnessing this science, researchers at Stanford University have pioneered an eco-friendly solution to regulate indoor temperatures and significantly reduce energy consumption, providing a promising alternative to traditional air conditioning systems. This breakthrough comes at a critical juncture, as the global demand for cooling and heating places immense strain on energy resources and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

Designer: Stanford Research Team

I am someone who lives in Dubai and don’t even get me started about how hot it gets here throughout the year, and in the summers, it’s honestly unbearable. Living in hot climates like Dubai often means facing sweltering summers where air conditioning becomes a necessity rather than a luxury. However, the environmental consequences of heavy air conditioning usage cannot be ignored. There are many such cities with a similar issue especially with the global temperatures rising. Isn’t it so ironic that the medium we use (AC) to cool our environment momentarily, increases the temperatures in the longer run? In response to this dilemma, scientists have been tirelessly working to develop innovative solutions, and one such breakthrough is the newly invented range of paints from Stanford University.

In October of the previous year, researchers at Purdue University made headlines with their iteration of the world’s whitest paint, reflecting a remarkable 97.1% of the sun’s rays. Building on this achievement, the team at Stanford University has gone a step further by creating a palette of colors, including orange, yellow, blue, and white. This collection of pigments is designed to regulate temperatures, making spaces cooler during summer and warmer in winter, thus reducing the need for excessive heating and air conditioning.

The significance of this invention cannot be understated. Currently, heating and cooling consume around 13% of the world’s energy, contributing to approximately 11% of global greenhouse gas emissions. The innovative paints developed by Stanford researchers are poised to address this energy challenge head-on, substantially reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

Key to the success of these paints is their unique composition. Unlike conventional paints, these new colors employ a dual-layer design. The bottom layer utilizes aluminum flakes to create an infrared reflective surface, while an ultrathin, infrared transparent upper layer is made from inorganic nanoparticles. This innovative structure allows the paint to reflect a significant portion of high mid-infrared light, a major contributor to heat absorption. This dual-layer design has practical implications for both cooling and heating. For instance, when applied to exterior walls and roofs, the paint reflects sunlight, preventing heat buildup. Conversely, when applied to interior walls, the lower layer reflects infrared waves, helping to retain heat within the space.

Tests have demonstrated the remarkable effectiveness of these paints. In cold conditions, energy usage for heating was reduced by 36%, while in warm conditions, cooling energy requirements were decreased by nearly 21%. This level of energy savings has the potential to revolutionize the way we approach climate control in buildings and vehicles.

One of the most appealing aspects of these paints is their aesthetics. Unlike traditional low-emissivity paints that are limited to white, metallic silver, or gray, this new range offers a variety of colors. The infrared transparent upper layer enables a broader spectrum of hues, allowing for energy-efficient designs that do not compromise on appearance. This development is particularly important for architecture and design, where aesthetics play a significant role in building construction and urban planning.

Importantly, the new paints are also durable and versatile. Both layers of the paint are water-repellent, ensuring stability even in humid environments. Cleaning painted surfaces is a breeze, requiring nothing more than a wet cloth or water flushing. Moreover, these paints have demonstrated resilience in extreme conditions, from high temperatures to acidic environments, without compromising their performance or appearance.

As this revolutionary technology continues to evolve, the research team is committed to further refining the paint formulations for real-world applications. They are exploring the possibility of replacing organic solutions with water-based alternatives, which would enhance eco-friendliness and commercial viability.

In conclusion, the innovative paints developed by scientists at Stanford University hold the promise of transforming the way we approach temperature regulation in buildings, vehicles, and beyond. By harnessing the power of color and light reflection, these paints offer an environmentally friendly solution to the growing energy consumption associated with heating and cooling. As we continue to strive for sustainable living, such groundbreaking innovations provide a glimmer of hope for a cooler, greener future.

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This Hybrid Reusable Toothbrush is Paving the Way for Sustainability in Hospitality

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The hospitality industry, known for its opulence and luxury, has often been criticized for its unsustainable practices and excessive waste generation. From daily toiletry replacements to the use of single-use plastics, the industry’s environmental impact is significant. However, a revolutionary product called the Promo Toothbrush, developed by Asahi Industries Co. Ltd., is set to transform the industry’s approach to sustainability.

Designer: Doogdesign. Inc.

In the quest for providing premium service, hotels often replace toiletries daily, even though guests typically stay for no more than a week. This results in a tremendous amount of waste, particularly when it comes to items like plastic toothbrushes. Designed for two months of use, these toothbrushes are needlessly discarded every day or every two days, depleting valuable resources.

The Promo Toothbrush offers a sustainable alternative. This hybrid reusable toothbrush is crafted with 50% less petroleum-based plastic compared to conventional products. Its lightweight design and utilization of naturally derived materials, such as rice husks, contribute to a significant reduction in petroleum-derived plastics. Guests can now take the toothbrush home for reuse, promoting a more mindful and sustainable approach.

Rice husks, often seen as byproducts of rice processing, have found a valuable application in the creation of the Promo Toothbrush. These hard coverings of rice grains have versatile uses, ranging from fertilizers and insulation materials to fuel and even building materials. Incorporating rice husks into the toothbrush’s design not only reduces plastic waste but also taps into the potential of this abundant and renewable resource. As great a breakthrough as it is to explore new material in the sphere of sustainability, toothbrushes made out of cornstarch can be considered too, as they are 100% biodegradable and contain no amount of plastic at all.

Hotels often prefer to brand the items they provide to their customers. The Promo Toothbrush offers an excellent platform for hotel branding, as its surface can easily accommodate custom printing to personalize and enhance luxury. However, the capacity of the material to sustain print can be explored, as its texture is moist. While white has traditionally been favored for a cleaner look, the emerging trend of sustainability allows for a broader color palette that can make a powerful statement on behalf of the hotel’s commitment to eco-conscious practices. The chamfered edges of the toothbrush ergonomically aid the grip and make your morning brushing experience satisfying and easy. The toothbrush can be easily stored or hung by the cavity at the bottom.

In a lesser-known practice, hair transplantation has been used historically in toothbrushes and hairbrushes. This cultural approach provides a sustainable alternative to conventional products. By utilizing hair as a natural bristle material, the Promo Toothbrush aligns itself with traditional, eco-friendly practices while maintaining a high aesthetic value.

The Promo Toothbrush represents a significant step forward in promoting sustainability within the hospitality industry. By offering a reusable solution and incorporating environmentally friendly materials like rice husks, this toothbrush aims to reduce plastic waste and raise awareness of more sustainable alternatives. Additionally, its customizable branding options and nod to the traditional use of hair bristles enhance its appeal in both aesthetic and ecological realms. As hotels adopt such innovative products, they demonstrate a commitment to mindful consumption and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

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An Intricate Geometric Stone Calendar That Makes You Value Your Time and Memories

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Creating tangible forms from abstract concepts in a basic lesson in a design school. I feel it’s the most vital and coolest class for a fresher. It helps one dig deeper into the emotional quotient and connect with themselves on a deeper level. One such great project was the Noova Calendar, winner of the 1st Prize in the Natural Stone Design Competition in 2022, is a truly remarkable creation that blends artistry, functionality, and sustainability. This unique calendar design beautifully captures the essence of time through the intricate interlocking forms of marble torus geometries. With its emphasis on the cyclical nature of time and the use of high-quality natural materials, Noova offers a captivating and meaningful way to experience the passing of days and months.

Designers: Berk Yıldız and Sineray Serin

The concept behind Noova goes beyond a simple organizational tool; it aims to evoke a sense of wonder and appreciation for time itself. In our conventional city lives, we are so caught up with various tasks that we tend to overlook the little things and live in the moment. The moment we start appreciating every minute of time we unlock a door towards serenity amidst the chaos. In the case of Noova, the two interlocking marble torus geometric forms represent the infinite and cyclical nature of time. By merging abstract forms with a concrete representation of time, the Noova calendar brings a unique perspective to the way we perceive and interact with the passing days.

The Noova design is a beautiful combination of natural and historical inspirations, such as the cyclical forms found in natural stones and the movement of a sundial. This fusion of temporal and natural cycles is not only aesthetically pleasing but also adds a symbolic layer to the calendar. The nested rings of the interlocking torus structures create a visually captivating composition that reflects the continuity and infinity of time, reminding us of the perpetual nature of life’s moments.

Crafted from high-quality natural marble, each Noova calendar piece showcases the inherent beauty and unique patterns offered by this ancient material. Meticulously shaped by skilled artisans, every calendar carries its own character, making each piece one-of-a-kind. Marble, known for its strength and durability throughout human history, ensures that the Noova calendar can be enjoyed for years to come, providing a tangible representation of the enduring nature of time.

At the core of Noova’s design philosophy is the notion of valuing time and cherishing each passing moment. The interactive feature of the calendar allows users to carefully read time and appreciate the significance of each day. Noova serves as a constant reminder that time is not just a series of numbers but a collection of stories waiting to be experienced and cherished.

Noova not only seeks to inspire a deeper appreciation for time but also promotes environmental awareness and sustainability. The specially designed box for the calendar is crafted from recycled materials, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to reducing environmental impact. By utilizing recycled paper, cardboard, and other recyclable materials, it minimizes the demand for natural resources while ensuring the safe protection of the product during shipping.

The Noova Calendar stands as a testament to the seamless fusion of design, functionality, and environmental consciousness. Its captivating interlocking marble torus forms and emphasis on the cyclical nature of time create a visually striking and thought-provoking experience. As we interact with this calendar, we are invited to reflect on the passage of time, value each moment, and contribute to a more sustainable future. Noova represents more than just a calendar; it is a symbol of our connection to time and the world around us.

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Compost Your Office Waste Effortlessly and Odourlessly with this Compost Sleek Bin

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In office environments, a significant amount of waste is generated daily, including cardboard cups, wooden teaspoons, and coffee grounds. These materials make up most of the trash produced in such settings. Fortunately, these waste materials are excellent for composting, and with the rising trend of indoor plants in offices, individuals can utilize compost to nourish their plants. However, composting has not been a popular choice in enclosed spaces due to various challenges, including the long processing time, space constraints, and unpleasant odors. To address these issues, the innovative Homepost composting station has been designed.

Designer: Alp Çakın

Homepost is a composting station specifically created to accelerate the composting process, prevent the spread of odors, and offer additional storage space. By utilizing this system, individuals can quickly produce nutrient-rich compost at home or offices, which can be used for various activities such as growing fruits and vegetables.

It can compost a wide range of organic waste materials. The compostable waste items include biodegradable plastics, paper waste, nutshells, teabags, coffee grounds, fruits and vegetable scraps, and eggshells. This comprehensive list ensures that all common office waste can be effectively transformed into nutrient-rich compost.

The composting process in Homepost is accelerated by an efficient acceleration module. The waste materials are shredded by a built-in knife and crushed between the crushing head and the bottom base. Through the gaps in the bottom base, the crushed material falls into the storage compartment of the acceleration module. The bottom chamber has a generous volume of 4.5 liters, while an additional compost tank with a capacity of 8.5 liters provides extra storage space.

To prevent any potential odor issues, Homepost is equipped with an active carbon filter. This filter effectively neutralizes any unpleasant smells that may arise during the composting process. This feature ensures that the composting station can be conveniently placed in office environments without causing any disturbances.

One of the notable features of Homepost is its environmentally friendly construction. The composting station is made from green polyethylene, a sustainable material derived from Brazilian sugarcane. This material not only provides excellent durability but also has the advantage of being 100% sustainable. The production process of green polyethylene involves the absorption of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere by the sugarcane plant. For every kilogram of green polyethylene produced, approximately 3.0 kg of carbon dioxide is removed from the air, thereby minimizing the greenhouse effect. This is a revolutionary material to dig deeper into and its uses as the usual trend is to stop producing or reduce the production of certain objects/ materials to help the environment which limits our day-to-day usage but with this material, it is a noticeable advantage that does not restrict us from our use at all in fact encourages us to produce more useful objects in order to save our planet. It’s a win-win!

In terms of practicality and convenience, Homepost boasts a rotating arm that serves multiple purposes. Firstly, it allows the product to be easily transported, as the arm can be folded, reducing its volume. Additionally, the arm is fixed with ducts on the arm shaft, allowing for proper ventilation within the composting system.

Considering the importance of efficient transportation, the modules of Homepost have been thoughtfully designed to nest and occupy minimal space during transit. This feature enables easy distribution and ensures that the composting stations can reach their destinations with maximum efficiency.

Homepost revolutionizes composting in office environments by providing an efficient and odor-free solution to organic waste management. With its sustainable materials, accelerated composting process, ample storage capacity, and odor prevention mechanisms, Homepost empowers individuals to produce their own high-quality compost at home. By repurposing waste materials, Homepost encourages sustainable practices and contributes to a greener future. This is a great product for larger companies and offices where there is enough staff assigned for such tasks because it will be essential to separate the compostable waste from the plastic bottles and other materials. However, it would be an added task in a smaller firm with limited employees and would tend to overlook the product’s advantages.

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This rustic + flexible stool is made using the leftover grain from beer

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I’m at a point in my life where I’m team stools over chairs, and I truly believe stools deserve to be given way more credit than they get. Stools are often overlooked, maybe because they occupy minimum space, and aren’t really overbearing. But these traits are what make stools so great in my opinion! I mean, they’re compact, and a great space-saving furniture option for our modern homes. They are also super portable. And one such innovative stool design I recently came across is the Mask Stool by Mater.

Designer: Mater

Design brand Mater designed the ‘Mask Stool’. Now, what makes the Mask stool so unique or special? It’s the fact, that it has been built using the spent grain from brewery Carlsberg’s beer production, at the Danish film festival 3 Days of Design. The stool was displayed as a part of the brand’s Circular Design Exhibition at the hotel Villa Copenhagen in Copenhagen. It was designed by Danish architect Eva Harlou.

The Mask Stool is built using a sustainable design technology that was developed by Mater. Mater developed this technology alongside the Danish Technological Institute and the University of Copenhagen. The technology merges and mixes fiber-based materials with plastic waste. The spent grain leftover from Carlsberg’s beer production process is called ‘mask’ in Danish. This leftover material was used to create the stool. The wet fiber-based material left behind from the production process is dried up and then merged with a granulate of plastic waste, to produce a mixture that can be molded and transformed into furniture.

“It’s not only challenging, but it’s also very interesting because now we know how to do this. Now we can use not only the spent grain but also coffee beans and wood chips. This production method is unlimited. We can scale it up and do collaborations with all kinds of different industries to take their waste and turn it into great design,” said Eva Harlou. Discovering and developing this material took a lot of trial and error, and time on the part of the designers. Once they achieved this new material and got it right, it opened up the portal to discover a whole bunch of new materials.

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Sustainably designed toothbrush features a small replaceable head to minimize plastic waste

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Keep the handle, swap the bristles. An idea as simple as that can help reduce the waste from the roughly 1 billion plastic toothbrushes discarded in the USA alone. Rather aptly called the Disposable Head Toothbrush, this oral-care device from the mind of Abtin Valerie Design Studio features a sustainably designed two-part toothbrush that allows you to snap on a replaceable bristle-head onto your toothbrush handle. After months of use, instead of discarding the entire brush, just pop off the bristle-head and replace it with a new one. Just this one simple design detail helps cut down on plastic waste by over 50% because you’re now more likely to hold onto that toothbrush handle for multiple years! Combine this with the fact that this toothbrush is, in fact, made from bio-plastic and you’ve got the double-whammy of reduced waste and eco-friendliness!

Designer: Abtin Valerie Design Studio

For Abtin Valerie Design Studio, the challenge was less aesthetic and more technical. “This challenge required an attachment that must be durable and robust to ensure little to no movement when in use”, say designer-duo Abtin Zafar-Doagou and Valerie Kate Tiongco who co-founded the London-based studio together. “The aim was to form the design through research, utilizing replaceable heads and a uniquely modern aesthetic whilst keeping the tooling costs as low as possible.”

Designing tolerances and an entire supply chain for bio-plastic can be quite challenging, but Abtin Valerie Design Studio had toothbrush-makers Ola Bamboo to bring their experience to the table. The toothbrush was designed for Ola Bamboo, who specialize in bamboo-based personal care products. Although a new approach for both parties, the result turned out to be rather elegant in both aesthetics and technical functionality.

The two halves satisfyingly snap together, locking firmly in place with minimal tolerances so the parts don’t wiggle or wobble while interlocked. The fixture is so robust that the bristle-head will never accidentally disengage, and the only way to really pull the halves apart is to release the snap mechanism on the underside.

The Disposable Head Toothbrush’s design is a combination of ergonomic and minimal. The black and white colorway works rather well in my opinion, and the two halves become totally seamless once they join together, creating visual unity. The snapping mechanism is constructed in a way where the engineering detail hides on the underside of the toothbrush, away from sight… and as good design-thinking would have it, the snapping arms create a bump on the bottom of the toothbrush, which causes the bristle-head to float above surfaces when kept on countertops or shelves. This effectively minimizes the bristle-head’s chances of touching any unknown surfaces, keeping the entire solution cleverly hygienic too!

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Carpet Matter Project transforms carpet waste into useful products

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Carpet Matter Coffee Table Design

Not many people realize this, but the amount of carpet waste is excessive. Many groups focus on plastic waste, but we tend to forget about carpets. Unfortunately, as regular fixtures in homes, rugs also tend to be susceptible to damage.

Carpets get thinner and the bad odor can’t be easily removed. It may be best to throw them, but one must know how to dispose of the items properly. More often than not, used carpets are just left in dumpsites. Before the landfill gets complete with toxic waste, we must start planning on how to properly reduce, reuse, and recycle the carpets.

Designer: Riccardo Cenedella

Carpet Matter Coffee Table Legs

Italian designer Riccardo Cenedella has introduced a new stool, table, and lamp handcrafted using Carpet Matter. The latter is a new material that takes advantage of carpet waste. The goal is to make valuable products from old carpets to help achieve a more sustainable future.

The Carpet Matter has been transformed into a lamp and a stool. They are one-of-a-kind but still serve their purpose as a seat and as illumination to the surrounding areas. This project is beneficial as carpets’ disassembly isn’t exactly easy.

Carpet Matter Stool

Cenedella knows the challenge of waste management and there’s not much proper planning for rugs and carpets. However, he managed to work with synthetic materials, including carpets, and developed a technique that will let him reshape them. The waste material can then be repurposed to create different items like furniture pieces.

Carpet Matter Coffee Table 2

Carpet Matter Lamp Design

For this project, the designer collected carpet waste from local shops. The first product is the Carpet Matter Lamp made from waste material and an LED Neonflex. The light strips look like neon lights that offer illumination. There are different lamp versions, so you can expect almost unique creations.

The Carpet Matter Stool is simply a block of stool that can serve as seating. The same material is also used to create the Carpet Matter Table series. It is a collection of tables of different shapes and sizes with carpet waste material. With his work, the designer’s goal is to raise environmental awareness. He knows that wasted material can be used and transformed into valuable products.

Carpet Matter Coffee Table Legs

The Carpet Matter project has already produced lamps, stools, and tables. However, we believe more items can still be made. We imagine bigger chairs, other table forms, and maybe shelves. The waste carpet can also be used to create smaller objects like pots, jars, desk trays, and more.

Carpet Matter Stool 2

Carpet Matter Stool 3

Carpet Matter Lamp Details

Carpet Matter Lamp 2

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