These home accessories are inspired by AlUla landscapes

Studio Niko Kapa based in Dubai recently unveiled a collection of homeware, office and decorative products. These draw inspiration from the natural landscapes of AlUla in Saudi Arabia. The designers were especially influenced by AlUla’s rich history, archeology and natural environment. Through these influences, the mass-produced objects resemble artifacts with unique, handmade qualities. The products in this range include desk organizers, bowls and valet trays with organic, sculptural forms.

The AlUla region includes UNESCO world heritage sites like Hegra and Dadan, which were capitals of two ancient Arabian Kingdoms. The area’s geography is made up of desert dunes, sandstone mountains and volcanic landscapes. These undulating, kinetic landscapes and traditional Arabian craftsmanship were extensively researched to develop the AlUla artifacts. These socio-cultural and environmental-inspired elements merge with contemporary design for a timeless, vernacular appeal. The designers also meticulously blend aesthetics with function for an elegant, versatile product collection.

Related: Beautiful plant-based Leukeather rivals exotic leather

Through extensive material research, and to pay further homage to AlUla, the main object materiality is sand. The sand is held together with AshCrete. This is especially environmentally friendly as AshCrete is made from 97% fly ash, which utilizes waste materials and replaces most of the energy-intensive components used to produce traditional concrete. Additionally, the material incorporates recycled concrete and ceramics to further enhance sustainability.

The manufacturing of these objects is another key feature of the design process that lessens the project’s environmental impact. Instead of mining for natural resources and utilizing an energy-intensive process, the AlUla artifacts use the site’s abundant desert sand and other waste materials. By using locally-sourced materials and recycling waste from other production processes, transport and raw material costs are minimized and the collection’s carbon footprint drops. Moreover, since the manufacturing process does not require technical expertise or specialized mechanical equipment, workmanship and labor costs are reduced.

Beyond environmental and economic sustainability, the project’s material research and development also influenced the objects’ appearance. The material’s finish gives the products a stone-like, matte texture that mimics features of the local scenery. Meanwhile, local earth pigments like clay have been used to obtain the collection’s warm, desert-inspired color palette.

In the near future, the artifacts product line will be produced and presented at AlUla’s cultural and retail outlets in Saudi Arabia. The collection will preserve the country’s rich heritage and culture while paying homage to the local geography.

+ Studio Niko Kapa

Images via Studio Niko Kapa

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Farming learning center makes use of off-grid design

A new environmentally-friendly learning center is the modern version of an old schoolhouse concept. Plus, this schoolhouse is off-grid and an amazing place to learn.

This lovely learning center is on Adamah Farm in Falls Village, Connecticut. The building uses geothermal heating and photovoltaic panels to provide for the building’s energy needs. Moreover, there is well water on the property. The building itself is built out of recycled wood and aluminum.

Related: Repurposed slate covers this entire timber school in France

Meanwhile, the learning center is part of a 10-acre working farm. Farming and weaving are done on the property to promote sustainable living. Work areas and fields then create a huge learning area outdoors. Nature also provides a constant learning experience.

Additionally, the building is a two-story structure with an open teaching kitchen that connects to the dining area. Part of the design intention is to have the building be full of light in an open space. Natural light floods the interior spaces, which are full of beautiful wood and stone accents.

Following, the first floor of the building is a large farming education center with big, open areas that can serve as tractor storage. A row of windows also provides views of the far landscape surrounding the building. From the outside, the building is tucked into an area of trees and surrounded by green fields.

Furthermore, there are large, covered and screened porches to provide additional outdoor learning spaces. The learning takes place inside and outside this building. The entire farm is therefore a learning experience and an open classroom of sorts.

The building is also carbon-neutral and energy-efficient. It is totally independent, with its own water and energy sources. In fact, it’s off-grid and made to function all on its own. That, in itself, is something to learn a lot from.

This incredible design was created by Studio ST Architects, an award-winning and woman-owned firm based in Manhattan, New York.

+ Studio ST Architects

Images via Studio ST Architects

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37.5 Technology improves fabric and biodegradability

Material design is all about adapting fabrics to perform better and be less impactful to the environment. The 37.5 Technology by Cocona Labs does both.

37.5 Technology is an innovative change to the way we remove moisture from clothing and bedding during use. Everyone is familiar with wicking, a common way of dispersing moisture as you sweat. In contrast, this technology is built on the concept of removing humidity before it ever turns into moisture or sweat. The difference is notable since wicking simply redistributes moisture while 37.5 Technology looks to remove it altogether.

Related: Recycled nylon clothing from prAna keeps you comfortable

Many brands across a variety of industries have adopted the 37.5 Technology for their products. You can find it in sheets, mattress pads, pillows, blankets, and even mattresses by familiar brands like Sleep Number, Harvey Norman, Hudson’s Bay and Hypnos. 37.5 also excels in the outdoor, lifestyle and activewear realms where it’s been adopted by Eddie Bauer, Land’s End, Pottery Barn, Salomon, Banana Republic, Burberry, Calvin Klein and many more.

Most recently, the 37.5 Technology began integrating an enzyme that speeds up the degrading process at the end of the product’s life. The Enhanced Biodegradation (+EB) additive, which accelerates products’ natural degradation doesn’t cause the material to break down during use or storage. Instead, it goes to work when introduced to the conditions of the landfill. That means the piles of clothing, mattresses, shoes and other linens can now biodegrade in decades rather than hundreds or thousands of years from now.

Since the 37.5 Technology can be woven into the very fabric of clothing and home goods, it means the thermoregulation and biodegradable aspects are there when you purchase it and will never wash out.  

The company explains, “37.5 Technology can be incorporated into fabric fibers, insulation and padding – all of which will now degrade faster in landfill conditions. 17 million tons of textile waste are contributed to landfills each year, a majority of which is synthetic waste that shows virtually no decomposition. By contrast, synthetics biodegraded 50-80% in just 80-100 years with +EB.”

The science stems from a visit to Japan and a dip in volcanic sand baths. While the sand baths on Mount Aso are hot, the body quickly adjusts due to the thermoregulation the natural material provides. Basically, the volcanic sand evaporates the sweat vapor so quickly that the body remains cool. It’s a unique beginning for a company, but the experience sparked an idea. While others were focused on wicking technology, 37.5 began experimenting with volcanic sand to evaporate humidity and eventually found a way to incorporate that technology into fabrics. 

Lab experiments suggest an increase in workout efficiency when wearing clothing integrated with 37.5. The company claims 37.5 is “Scientifically proven to increase stamina by reducing the amount of energy used to manage core temperature, 37.5 Technology extends an athlete’s peak performance by 10 minutes — or 26%.”

The company has also found evidence of better sleep. Anyone who wakes from temperature fluctuations during the night can attest to the disruptive nature of vacillating from hot to cold. Cocona Labs says, “37.5 Technology leads to longer, more restful sleep cycles, so you stay in your comfort zone more often and longer: 89% of the time vs only 38% with traditional materials.”

Janji product review

Janji is one company invested in using 37.5 Technology in its clothing. The company provided his and hers activewear shirts for review. All items were minimally packaged, which always makes a good first impression on me. 

My husband has been trying out the Repeat Merino Tech Long Sleeve for men. It fits well, with an appropriate sleeve length and an en-vogue olive green color. The fabric is lightweight and very breathable, even when used as a base layer. My favorite feature is the built-in hanging loop on the collar. Personally, I think all clothing should have one.

Since it’s winter, it’s difficult to measure the humidity evaporation component, but hubby has worn it during yoga as well as when out on walks with our three hunting dogs, and the shirt has performed well in both situations, so thermoregulation seems reliable. 

The company also provided a women’s version of the same Repeat Merino Tech Long Sleeve for me. The styling is slightly different, with a slight scallop along the bottom hem and a subtly longer back than front. I would never have guessed this top contains nearly 50% merino wool. It has a thin, lightweight and soft feel. My sizing typically lands between a medium and a large depending on the brand, so I went with a large and it’s a comfortable, albeit loose fit.

The length is great with no abdomen exposure when I lift my arms. My favorite feature is the extended sleeves with thumb cutouts. The rust color is more of a burgundy, but it does have the subtlest copper hue mixed in.

Lastly, I also received a Janji Runterra Bio Tee. This is a cotton and 37.5 Technology poly blend and has a great feel to it. Slightly more fitted than the long sleeve, it’s a perfect relaxed fit for a middle-aged woman with a heavier midsection. Although marketed as performance wear for runners (which I am not), this is my go-to for lifting weights at the gym and is ideal for that activity. However, I often wear it around the house as everyday casualwear too. 

Thanks, Janji. Be sure to check out their sustainability initiatives via the link below.

+ Cocona Labs, Janji

Images via Cocona Labs, Janji and Dawn Hammon

Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.

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Ultimate vegan Amazon makeup brands gift guide

The beauty industry has a bad reputation to mend. It’s plagued with a history of chemical use, cheap plastic packaging and questionable animal welfare ethics. Turning to vegan products means the makeup and beauty products you use do not contain any animal products. The addition of the cruelty-free label means no animals were experimented on during the development or manufacturing of the product. 

However, some companies promote vegan aspects while simultaneously greenwashing efforts to eliminate plastic, reduce waste, minimize resource use, etc. We’ve found some companies you can easily find on Amazon that are dedicated to both vegan criteria and environmental protections. 

Related: Beauty brand IsFrom keeps your skin and mind at ease

ILIA

The Super Serum Skin Tint SPF 40 protects skin against sun damage while evening out skin tones. It’s vegan, cruelty-free, silicone free, fragrance free, oil free, gluten free and non-comedogenic. Moreover, it’s labeled safe for sensitive skin. The company has a long way to go on packaging, but is countering its plastic use in a partnership with Pact Collective. Customers are encouraged to mail up to 10 plastic beauty products containers from any brand to the company each month, where they will then be responsibly recycled without going to the landfill. 

Honest

Honest offers a variety of vegan beauty products such as the Extreme Length Mascara + Lash Primer. It also manufactures vegan lip balms, eyebrow gels, body butter, lash serum and eyeliners. As a company, products are made in alignment with the “Honest Standard,” which is monitored throughout the process of ingredient and material assessment, testing and validation, production, packaging, label transparency and ongoing evaluation. 

Melixir

It’s easy to maneuver through the vegan options at Melixir, which include hydration cream, gel cleanser, serum, toner, hand butter and moisturizer. The company is also environmentally focused in a variety of ways. It relies on minimalist packaging, even during transport, to lower waste and unnecessary additives. For example, it prints product information on the box instead of adding an additional pamphlet. Paper products are void of plastics for easy use and recycling. Melixir has earned FSC, BPI industrial compostable and Global Recycled Standard Certifications. The process involves collecting containers when they are empty so it can recycle the materials.

“We partner with Terracycle, a global leader in recycling hard-to-recycle materials, to run our recycling campaign #me:cycle with full transparency and the most advanced technology,” said Melixir. “Plastics are separated by number, melted down and turned into pellets that can be molded and extruded to produce new products. Glass is cleaned and sorted by color for processing. It is then crushed and melted to be used in new glass products.”

The company also features a pop-up store that is completely plastic-free, from display racks and shelves to product packaging. 

MILK Makeup

All MILK products are vegan and Leaping Bunny Certified to ensure there is no animal testing at any stage of the supply chain. The MILK product line includes options for the face, eyes and lips. Look for mascara, bronzers, lip and cheek tint, face primer, hydrating gel, blush, eyeliner, moisturizer and more. One primary mission is to produce goods that are clean and safe for use.

“Milk Makeup products will never contain over 2,500 controversial and potentially harmful or irritating ingredients, including: parabens, sulfates, BHA, BPA, plastic microbeads, talc, urea, retinyl palmitate, mercury or mercury-containing ingredients, resorcinol, formaldehyde, aluminum salts and mineral oil,” MILK stated.

It provides an “Ingredient No List” for easy reference of the ingredients it refuses to use. The company is working towards a goal of 100% natural ingredients and currently uses “ethically-sourced and sustainable mica and sustainability certified palm-derived ingredients.” It also partners with GMP Good Manufacturing Practice compliant factories. In addition, MILK is taking measurable and transparent steps towards sustainable materials with plant-based inks, locally produced packaging, the elimination of unnecessary leaflets, product displays with reduced plastic and the offering of refillable containers. 

Mad Hippie

You can probably tell by the name this is a brand focused on natural, vegan, sustainable products. The vegan product line includes cleansers, serums, moisturizers, sun protection and more. The company supports several environmental non-profits and uses sustainable packaging such as glass and bamboo. Mad Hippies said it best: “From utilizing bioresin sugarcane tubes, to printing with soy inks on FSC Certified paper, giving $1 of every web sale to conservation and controlling our downstream waste through a partnership with Terracycle, Mad Hippie is dedicated to the preservation of the planet.” 

B.O.B. Facial Bar

If you’re looking for a low-impact face cleaner, the B.O.B. Facial Bar might be for you. The brand name stands for Bars Over Bottles in an obvious effort to reduce unnecessary plastic tubes and other packaging. This 100% waterless, plastic free, zero waste and clean beauty company also offers shampoo bars, conditioner bars, deodorant and more. 

Sprout Eyeliner

This is perhaps one of the most innovative product designs in the beauty world. Each Sprout eyeliner is outfitted with wildflower seeds in the base. When your eyeliner pencil gets too short for use, you can plant it and wildflowers will grow! It doesn’t get more natural or sustainable than that. Every part of the tube is thoughtfully designed, from the sugarcane cap to the FSC Certified wood center and plastic-free makeup.

Images via Amazon

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Unique sailboat concept made from ocean plastic waste

Plastic pollution is one of the most serious problems affecting the world’s oceans. If current trends continue, plastic pollution is expected to outweigh all fish in the sea by 2050. Finding a long-term solution to this growing problem is critical. With that said, one of the most important methods is to collect and recycle waste. Now, designer Cesar Pieri and Furf Design Studio have come up with a new way to combat plastic waste.

They’ve envisioned a new design concept that takes sustainability to a whole new level: the Second Sun sailboat. The best part about this conceptualized design is that it would be made from plastic found in oceans.

Related: Exploring the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

It has two distinguishing features: a transparent hull and a bright yellow-round sail that represents the “second Sun.” The transparent structure of the design provides a glimpse into sea life while also displaying the dance of the ocean waves. Thereby providing the sailor with an entirely new sailing experience. 

As per the set plans, the transparent hull of the sailboat would be made from algae-based biopolymer, whereas the internal structure and fabric from plastic waste collected from the oceans. 

Moreover, plastic pollution has been wreaking havoc on the oceans for years now. Plastic is also estimated to account for 85% of all marine litter. Plastic production is expected to double in the coming years, eventually leading to a sharp increase in ocean pollution. Currently, only 9% of plastic is recycled, owing to the low value of its waste.

If this sailboat design is successful, it may help to reduce the amount of plastic in the oceans. Furthermore, the innovative design has the potential to usher in a new generation of watercraft and inspire more such environmentally friendly concepts in the future.

+ Furf Design Studio

Images via Furf Design Studio

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New Toyota bZ electric vehicle is sleeker than a Tesla

If you’ve been driving a Prius for years or holding out for a sleeker electric vehicle, Toyota now has the car for you. The new Toyota bZ BEV Concept was just revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and we love it. A clean and sporty exterior design is combined in the BEV Concept with sustainable interior materials to create an EV that works for everyone.

Toyota BEV concept looks like a tesla

What makes the new bZ BEV Concept EV look so sleek is its aerodynamic shape combined with super streamlined headlight design and a sporty rear hatch. The doors have invisible handles. Meanwhile, the charging hatch blends seamlessly into the body just in front of the driver’s door.

Related: Luxury Zeekr 009 debuts high-tech minivan EV for 2023

The BEV extends Toyota’s bZ brand umbrella, which stands for “Beyond Zero.” Toyota group vice president and general manager David Christ said at the Los Angeles Auto Show that the aerodynamic design, combined with intuitive tech features, upgrades the Toyota line of EV offerings to showcase another possible vision of the “very near future with our battery electric vehicles.”

We wrote about the bZ4x earlier this year, which is a small car. However, it is not this type of small SUV hatch. As Toyota works toward its goal of making all cars EVs by 2025, you’ll see more variation in the types of EVs available from the automaker. In turn, you’ll see them fill out a complete product line of all types of cars. These cars will compete with other small and daily driver electric vehicles on the market. They’ll compete with Mazda, Honda and Chevrolet, as well as other less expensive brands.

The tech inside the BEV EV concept

The top-of-the-line tech includes an in-car personal agent named Yui that responds to audio cues from the front and rear passengers. Yui also sets off the light and sound features of the vehicle. Additional tech involves intuitive touchscreen controls similar to a Tesla. Following, other electronic controls are all electronically powered. The cockpit control screen is curved almost as if it is melted at the bottom, which is a unique touch we haven’t seen before. This mimics the exterior design that has unique angles in front and rear combined with a sleek curve unusual in a small SUV sporty design like this one.

The nice thing about a concept car that looks as practical as this one is that it lets you know the production car will look similar. This isn’t possible in vehicles that are too far out of reach or design, as it requires meeting certain regulations for bumper height, size of side mirrors and so on for a car to become street legal. This concept looks street ready.

A fully electric drivetrain

Toyota is calling the bZ Compact SUV Concept a “clean-vital design” that expresses a fun-to-drive vehicle with great performance that still is entirely battery electric. The bZ has zero emissions as well. The aerodynamic design is not just cosmetic — it helps the bZ create a lower center of gravity for better cornering and better battery efficiency.

Short overhangs in the front and rear along with a beautifully designed cabin leave nothing to be desired in a fully electric small SUV. We would love to see more cars in this growing segment. This is because a small hatch with slightly better-than-average road performance suits so many people’s needs while keeping the price in a reasonable range as opposed to larger SUVs.

Many vehicles in this segment are either smaller or larger than this option, making this vehicle a unique offering for anyone who likes small SUVs or hatchbacks. While the niche will fill up soon as automakers convert more cars to EVs over the next decade, right now there aren’t many options for this size and style of vehicle.

Compare this with the Prius, which is clearly a smaller car, or larger SUVs like the Zeekr 009. Tesla and BMW EVs are far more expensive by nature due to their size being nearly twice as large for most models. And many electric SUVs are based on legacy vehicles that had gas engines historically. Therefore, the design wouldn’t be as fresh, and interior materials wouldn’t be as sustainable as this brand-new, ground-up design.

Sustainable interior materials

The seating in this concept car is made from recycled and plant-based materials. Toyota says it envisions a future in which carbon neutrality is achieved through the practical marketization of a portfolio of products with advanced alternative fuel and zero-emissions powertrain technologies. This means Toyota is planning to expand its EV line to about 30 dedicated battery-electric vehicles, including five in the bZ line. Doing so will help Toyota reach carbon neutrality by 2050. It will also give drivers many more options for affordable daily driver EVs.

+ Toyota

Via Barron’s

Images via Toyota and Shirah Kinder

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Okabashi shoes are 100% recyclable and cruelty-free

Recognizable brand Okabashi is on a mission to develop sustainable footwear options, and has a recycled and vegan collection of shoes to prove it.

More and more brands are offering alternatives to energy and resource-consumptive virgin materials. Inasmuch, recycled materials are taking a starring role in all kinds of products. The flip flops, slide sandals and ballet flats at Okabashi got their start decades ago when the company began experimenting with recycled materials. Fast forward to 2022 to find them combining over 100 tons of scrap material and recycled shoes with soy to create their signature footwear collection.

Related: Regenerative shoes that are made out of hemp, washi and more 

Okabashi is proudly an American brand, with all shoes being made in Buford, Georgia, since the company’s launch in 1984. With the U.S. as its home base, Okabashi is part of the small 1% of shoe companies that still manufacture in the states. Using local resources and manufacturing means over 90% less travel time than a typical shoe that is manufactured overseas. The company reports, “Compared to operating overseas, we save an estimated 134,000 gallons of fuel per year by not shipping our product from Asia to the US.”

Health and wellness is at the heart of the shoe designs. In fact, Okabashi is a Japanese word that represents wellness. It has even worked reflexology into the design in an effort to support the entire body, including the internal organs. The company promotes wellness for the environment, too. Through the use of recycled materials, it’s able to save water, transport emissions and energy used in processing. 

The company offers a two-year warranty on all shoes and encourages customers to return the shoes to the factory at the end of life. Not only are the shoes then recycled, but customers receive a 15% discount on their next purchase. Durability is the goal, which is seen in the careful material selection that eliminates the standard foam cutout. Each new shoe produced contains around 25% of recycled materials from the in-house, closed-loop manufacturing process. All shoes are BPA, latex, rubber and phthalate-free. In addition, they are vegan and cruelty-free.

The footwear line is 100% recyclable (plastic symbol #3) so they can be kept out of the landfill wherever that recycling service is available. Okabashi aims to remove waste as part of the production, wear and disposal cycle. The factory is a closed-loop system and the shoes both incorporate recycled materials and are recyclable so there’s no reason that can’t happen. The company summarizes, saying “Approximately 3 billion pairs of petroleum-based flip flops are manufactured each year globally. Flip flops also make up roughly 25% of ocean plastic pollution.”

For both men and women, the collection is kept simple. Staples such as slides and flip flops take center stage. For women, there are also ballet flats in a few different styles. There’s also an adorable lineup of rain boots for kids and a pair of “Croc”-type Carter Camp shoes. The boots come in a wide variety of colors with accents of dinosaurs, sea turtles, pink hearts, sailboats, sharks and other animals.

Okabashi also balances business with philanthropy, donating thousands of shoes to those in need. In a partnership with Soles4Souls, over 8,000 pairs of shoes have been donated to natural disaster survivors and first responders. In addition, active duty military personnel, veterans, retired military, military spouses and dependents get 10% off their purchases every day.

Okabashi Men’s Coast Slide Sandals review

When the company offered to send a product sample, I immediately thought of my 18-year-old son who dresses in shorts, T-shirts and slides 90% of the year. He’s had similar sandals in the past so I let him choose a pair for review. He decided on the Men’s Coast Slide Sandals, which are a slide with a thick strap over the top of the foot rather than a flip flop strap between the toes. 

The order arrived quickly with minimal packaging for little waste. At first touch, they feel pretty rigid, but they actually have a bit of flex to them. 

My son’s first comment was that the footbed is very comfortable. There’s a heel groove and a noticeable arch support he finds supportive. He’s worn them around the house, outside with the dogs and even to the gym.

These shoes are incredibly versatile, especially since they are machine washable. The durable build feels like it will last many, many years. Whole sizes are available. Since my son wears a 10.5 we went with an 11 and he reports they are a bit loose. We probably would go with a size 10 next time instead. He has wide feet but doesn’t feel these pinch or grab anywhere. He says, “They are comfortable. What else do you want to know?”

+ Okabashi

Images via Okabashi

Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.

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Examining wastewater treatments and the way forward

Water is becoming an increasingly scarce resource. As a result of water pollution caused by human-related activities, wastewater has been damaging local ecosystems across the globe. This is not only unfit for human use or consumption, but also threatens indigenous flora and fauna. In order to prevent this, wastewater treatment (WWT) is carried out to remove impurities from sewage before it reaches waterbodies or aquifers.

There are three types of sewage: domestic, industrial and storm runoff. The first two types of wastewater can cause serious disruptions within ecosystems. Domestic sewage, also known as sanitary sewage, is wastewater from homes. While 99.9% of this comprises of water, less than 0.1% of this waste contains dissolved impurities. Despite the sewage containing a relatively small proportion of waste, it is the large quantities of domestic sewage produced and the nature of the impurities that can cause environmental problems. While most of these impurities are made of organic materials and contain plant nutrients, they also often contain disease-causing microbes.

Related: Is recycled wastewater the answer to California’s drought?

On the other hand, industrial sewage often contains chemical compounds from industry-related processes and production. It can be harmful or even toxic for living organisms to come in contact with these compounds. The third storm sewage includes substances such as organic matter and suspended or dissolved solids that contaminate the water during runoff. This can include surface runoff from nearby areas such as farms, which means that the water can be contaminated with animal waste, fertilizers and pesticides, which can then be deposited in the soil or waterbodies.

The effects of wastewater pollutants on aquatic ecosystems

Pollutants in wastewater include organic material, suspended solids, plant nutrients and various microorganisms.

The amount of decayable organic matter is indicated by the biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). This is the amount of oxygen required by microbes to break down organic materials in sewage. If there is more organic matter in sewage, that results in a higher BOD. Consequently, higher BODs result in less dissolved oxygen available for aquatic animals.

Suspended solids can also make up sewage. Industrial and storm wastewater typically contains higher levels of suspended solids than domestic wastewater.

Domestic sewage can also contain high levels of plant nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. However, if there are excess amounts of these elements in waterbodies, this can cause rapid growth of algae, which leads to algal blooms. These disrupt aquatic ecosystems as the algae produce toxins that harm animal populations and/or humans that utilize the water.

Another characteristic of domestic sewage is high levels of microbes. The majority of these are coliform bacteria produced by our intestinal tracts, among other types. This can cause disease if ingested and indicates that fecal matter is present in the water. As described above, high levels of organic matter lessen dissolved oxygen in water, impacting aquatic flora and fauna.

How WWT is carried out

There are four main methods to treat wastewater, depending on its composition. These techniques are physical, chemical, sludge and biological WWTs.

Physical WWTs

Physical processes, including straining and skimming, can be used to remove solids from wastewater. One of the most efficient methods is sedimentation, whereby heavy or insoluble particles settle at the bottom of the solution while the pure water floats above. Another technique that can be used is filtration. For this, the wastewater passes through various filters, such as sand, to separate contaminants and/or insoluble particles. This can be supplemented with skimming to efficiently remove the greasy layer that is often found floating at the top of certain types of wastewater.

To carry out these methods, one often requires heavy-duty machinery. This can negatively contribute to other forms of pollution, by virtue of the extensive energy required to power these systems.

Chemical WWTs

Chemical wastewater treatment methods involve the use of other substances such as chlorine or ozone (O3). These oxidizing agents kill bacteria and prevent them from reproducing in the water. Alongside oxidizing substances, neutralization can also be carried out to ensure that an acidic or basic solution is brought back to its natural pH of 7.

For chemical WWTs, one has to be mindful of the chemical compounds being used to treat the wastewater so as to prevent contact with harmful substances as a result of negligence.

Sludge WWTs

Sludge treatments use a solid-liquid separation process to purify water. Often a device such as a centrifuge is used to separate solids from liquids within the wastewater.

Biological WWTs

This system is biomimetic as it utilizes biological processes to decompose organic matter like human waste, oils and soap found in wastewater. This is similar to processes that microorganisms carry out in nature. There are three ways this can be done: through aerobic, anaerobic and composting processes.

For aerobic processes, microorganisms break down organic matter using oxygen and turn the material into carbon dioxide. Composting is another oxygen-utilizing process where water is treated by mixing it with sawdust or other carbon-based resources.

Conversely, in anaerobic processes, oxygen is not used. Instead, the waste is fermented at a specific temperature to decompose organic matter.

Looking to the future

Of the four main WWT processes, biological wastewater treatment solutions are a sustainable option that not only mimics natural processes, but also takes a holistic approach by optimizing the health of the planet and humankind. The EBS-Di system by EnBiorganic Technologies does this well. To ensure that this system works efficiently, non-pathogenic microbes are grown and trained to eat a specific diet of organic materials. Once they become familiar with this, they are released into the wastewater to purify the water by decomposing organic matter. For further purification, the biological sewage treatment process can be supplemented by one or more of the other three WWTs on a smaller scale.

By adopting biological wastewater treatment systems, we can ensure the safety of local ecosystems through a biomimetic approach. This also lowers costs and safety risks for those involved in the purification process.

Via Britannica, EP Online and EnBiorganic Technologies

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Formr furniture gives people and the planet a second chance

Formr is all about second chances — literally. The furniture and home decor company’s mission is to give a second chance to both formerly incarcerated people and construction waste. The result is a dynamic and purpose-driven e-commerce business that offers bespoke pieces for the home.

The name Formr represents the form involved in the design process but also symbolizes the former life of incarcerated workers and construction materials. To understand the importance of these components, you must hear the story of how it came about.

Related: 5 reasons why building green is the best way forward

The company formally launched in March of 2020 in San Francisco, California, about a week before lockdowns began. With uncertainty in the air, owner Sasha Plotitsa considered closing the doors. But upon reflecting on the journey that got him there, he decided he invested too much to let it go.

Background

It began when he came to this country from Russia at the young age of seven years old, already passionate about art and unknowingly directed toward a career in design. Two years later the family moved to San Francisco where Sasha’s father worked as a contractor.

Sasha’s journey found him studying industrial design at San Jose State University and moving into a series of related, and seemingly unrelated, jobs. He was the entire art department for a night vision company. Then opportunity put him into a real estate partnership with his father where he was able to put his interior design skills to work. The duo bought and updated properties for resale, with his father managing the construction process and Sasha contributing the interior design.

Visiting the job sites during construction, Sasha was appalled by the amount of construction waste, even on small projects. While they couldn’t eliminate hauling debris to the dump, Sasha began focusing on green design through healthy and environmentally-friendly materials. The movement was well received in the progressive city of San Francisco, well before green construction really took hold in the area.

Highs and lows 

In 2009, Sasha took advantage of another unexpected opportunity when he partnered in a cannabis shop. The business had been abandoned, and the space needed a facelift. Sasha got to work updating the rasta look to a clean, modern, welcoming space that earned a number-one ranking in the city. Unfortunately, the contradiction between state and federal laws resulted in the federal government shutting down the dispensary two years later. During this time, many people were imprisoned for their involvement in the marijuana business.

Sasha says, “I witnessed the failed drug war firsthand. I saw people’s legal businesses taken away and many people throughout the country imprisoned for harmless drug-related nonviolent offenses, especially disproportionately impacting people of color.”

Although the business reopened after a few years, Sasha was ready for a change and knew he wanted to combine his passion for design with his deep-rooted need to serve others and cater to a meaningful impact. The idea of furniture-making caught his interest, and he put the design wheels to work. But it wasn’t enough. He wanted to do more than simply make a product, he wanted to make a difference, socially and environmentally. So after some deep soul searching, his lifelong experiences began to coagulate into Formr. 

The challenges continued, as they do in business. It proved more difficult than he thought to find and hire ex-cons with woodworking experience. However, he’s since built dozens of relationships in the community in order to connect with the right candidates so he can offer them a job with purpose and an opportunity to get reestablished in society. 

The process

Sasha thought back to the construction waste experience. He knew that would be the source for product materials. The design challenge then became how to make finished projects when limited by the size and shape of building cut-offs. It’s a challenge he readily accepted. Now, he takes a starring role in product design. Finished products like shelves, tables, plant stands, workstations and functional, multi-purpose pieces for tiny homes are all converted into beautiful decor made from scraps. Products are offered in a variety of color options, finishes and textures.  

It’s no easy process. Relationships with site contractors allow access to debris piles. Formr workers then sort through wood and metal looking for pieces to repurpose. Back at the shop, nails and other hardware are removed and materials are cleaned up for use. At the end of the process, items are packed in eco-friendly packaging. Each delivery includes a sample of the wood or other material at the beginning of the process so the customer can see the progression from where it started to what it became. In an effort to give back to the environment, Formr plants one tree for each purchase made. 

At present, Formr products are available via mail order only. It has plans for retail spaces in the future. For the time being, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee since customers don’t have the opportunity to see the products in person in advance of purchase.

+ Formr

Images via Formr

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Replace single-use home products with earth-friendly Nimbus

Armed with the power of plants, Nimbus offers multi-use cleaning and household items that minimize single-use waste. The sustainably-minded company aims to create products we use every day, with reduced impact on the environment.

The Nimbus journey began in 2012 when co-founder Bukit Lawang traveled to Northern Sumatra to film a documentary on the topic of deforestation and its impacts to local wildlife. While he was there, he witnessed firsthand the effects on the endangered orangutan and other animals as a result of palm oil and paper operations. 

Related: Bamboo luxury loungewear you’ll want to wear inside and out

Inspired to change the course of consumer products, the initial product, bamboo toilet paper, was launched and Nimbus was born. In the years since, the company has tapped into eucalyptus fibers for its Nimby compressed towels, developed disposable paper straws and created paper plates from sugarcane plants, among other product releases.

The Nimby towels are hypoallergenic, biodegradable, flushable and compostable. They’ve earned several certifications and awards including ‘Best New Personal Care Product’ at 2022 Expo East, Testex approval, OEKO TEX certification and the FSC Certified stamp of environmental excellence. With the exception of the Expo East award, the same accolades were awarded to the Multi-surface towels. Both products are made from FSC Eucalyptus fibers that are converted into a natural rayon. The company reports these products are plastic-free, chemical-free and armed to eliminate 99.9% of germs. 

All Nimbus products contain recycled or natural materials, which are responsibly sourced. Bamboo and eucalyptus were consciously chosen for their low energy and water consumption during growth. Eucalyptus is sourced from farms that grow plants as agricultural crops rather than from forests, avoiding any risk of deforestation. Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that sucks up carbon and releases 30% more oxygen than a comparable grove of trees.  

You can find Nimbus products online at Nimbus.com and Amazon. Some products are also available in-store at Rite Aid locations nationally.

Nimbus products review

Remember when you were a kid and were given those small, dehydrated washcloths? You know the ones. We’d drop them in the bathtub and they’d instantly turn into a thin washcloth. 

The Nimbus compressed cleaning towels are pretty much the same thing, except instead of a cotton washcloth, these are more like super thick paper towels. Which makes sense considering they’re made from plant-based materials. 

I received two versions of the Nimby towels packaging. The first is a paper-based tub that contains twenty reusable wipes. This is a thick cardboard that can be repurposed for other storage later on or easily recycled. The packaging is printed with a lot of information about the sustainability aspects of the product and how to use it. 

The second packaging provides a wrapper for each cloth, which I assume is part of a commercial bulk pack. The wrappers appear to be plastic lined, which I attribute to moisture-proofing, but I have questions about this and the waste involved in the individual packaging. The provided QR code provides information about the cost savings and environmental aspects of providing these biodegradable cloths in a hotel setting. There’s even a form for creating a cost-savings estimate based on usage. It would be nice to replace the commonly provided chemically-laden, non-environmentally-friendly make-up cloths with this solution. 

The cloths are easy to use. Simply dampen them with a few drops of water and unfold them as they expand. They are thick and reusable. Simply rinse after use. You can squeeze out the excess water or simply drape it over a surface to dry.

I’ve used this type of dehydrated cloth for many years now and take them everywhere. I keep a few in my toiletry bag to use for removing makeup when I travel. I always take a few when I go backpacking since they are perfect for washing dishes, faces and bodies. Plus, I feel good about burying them since they are plant-based and biodegradable. I also make sure to have some when I stay at an Airbnb or similar rental since they often lack adequate linens. I use them to wipe down counters and wash dishes, or as a washcloth in the shower. 

The company also sent a three-pack of multi-surface towels. I haven’t used them on windows or glass but look forward to seeing how they work. For everyday cleaning, they are reusable tools for a variety of uses. They wash nicely and also make a nice gift. I am a little disappointed in the packaging for the towels. It features a coated paper package that may be difficult to recycle and it’s attached with those annoying little plastic tags.

For a company that promotes its avoidance of plastic in its products, it seems like a better design could be chosen for some of the packaging. However, when we’re talking about progress, not perfection, Nimbus is a win in many categories.

+ Nimbus

Images via Lindsey Hytrek and Dawn Hammon

Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.

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New magnetic material can clean microplastics in an hour

Microplastics have become a problem in our current world in every aspect. They are found nearly everywhere and have been traced in our foods and water. To deal with the menace, scientists are working around the clock to find a solution.

Researchers at the University of Surrey have now developed a robot fish that can draw microplastics from water and store them in its internal cavity. The fish moves in water with its mouth wide open, collecting microplastics and storing them.

Related: This company cleans microplastics from water with whirlpools

According to the researchers behind the new discovery, it is more efficient than existing methods of removing microplastics. Lead researcher of the study Professor Nicky Eshtiaghi says that current methods could take days to remove microplastics from water.

Additionally, according to Eshtiaghi and his team, they have created a cheap and sustainable method of ridding microplastics from water.

The team has also developed an adsorbent that can remove microplastics that are 1,000 times smaller than those detectable by treatment plants currently. The adsorbent is in the form of powder and can act much faster than other methods.

“The nano-pillar structure we’ve engineered to remove this pollution, which is impossible to see but very harmful to the environment, is recycled from waste and can be used multiple times,” said Eshtiaghi in a release.

The adsorbent was made from nanomaterials that can easily mix in water. The material attracts plastics and other dissolved pollutants. Moreover, the entire process takes just an hour or less.

Eshtiaghi, the first author of the study and Ph.D. candidate at the School of Engineering, said that the nanomaterials contain iron. Iron plays a role in helping to use magnets to separate plastic pollutants from the rest of the plastic.

Dr. Nasir Mahmood, a co-leader of the research, said that their new device factors the need to keep carbon pollution out of the picture. In other words, the device does not leave more harm behind by cleaning microplastics.

“Our powder additive can remove microplastics that are 1,000 times smaller than those that are currently detectable by existing wastewater treatment plants,” Mahmood said. “This is a big win for the environment and the circular economy.”

Now that they have finished testing the material, the team is looking for industrial collaborators. They say that the technology is good enough to be commercialized. It could be utilized in water treatment among other applications.

Via Interesting Engineering

Lead image via Unsplash

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Luxury homes along Florida Gulf Coast lays down green design

Positioned along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Hunters Point luxury homes are setting the foundation for what sustainable construction can look like now and in the future. 

The new eco-friendly development is made up of dozens of homes, each equipped with the smart technology and green design elements to weigh in as the most environmentally-resilient, climate-positive residential development in the U.S. 

Related: Office in Vietnam beats the heat with its biophilic design

The project began with the idea that housing needs to not only provide shelter for current and future generations, but also needs to exist in conjunction with a healthy environment. The company explains the concept, stating, “Our entire world is built around the pursuit of generational wealth. The idea is that you can earn enough in your lifetime to provide for the generations that will come after you. But what of the planet that your descendants will inherit?” 

To address these concerns, Hunters Point luxury homes are built to meet LEED platinum certification requirements. Each home is equipped with solar panels and monitored for energy efficiency through the Sonnen battery management system. This results in net-positive homes that generate more energy than they consume. Compared to a traditional home, the investment in the most-innovative new technologies means an annual savings of eight tons of CO2 per home. As a collective, the development is able to be completely self-sustaining, sharing resources between homes, while remaining off-grid. Hunters Point homes are designed to withstand beatings from the intense storms known to the region. 

Furthermore, the modern homes embrace a classic coastal vibe while incorporating smart technology such as voice commands throughout the space. Each home is equipped with electric car charging stations and other features that guide them towards a cleaner future.

Even the building process relies on data-driven technology to ensure the most resource-conservative construction. Every material is inventoried and counted. Unused items are then returned to the supplier to minimize waste. At the construction site, debris bins are individually labeled so sorted construction materials can be properly recycled or disposed of. 

“Our vision of the future includes communities that work together in harmony with nature and technology to create sustainable living for all people,” said the designer. “Our entire world is built around the pursuit of generational sustainability. The idea that you can live your best life now, while still providing a healthy planet for each and every one of the generations that will come after you.”

If you’re in the market and have $1.5 to $1.8 million in the bank, there are a few lots left for sale. 

+ Hunters Point Resort & Marina

Images via Hunters Point

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Cozy and environmentally-friendly gift options this holiday

Give the gift of coziness with products that both nurture your recipient and take a responsible stance towards protecting the environment. 

Cariloha Sheets

Cariloha offers bamboo bed, bath and apparel items. The company manages its own bamboo farm to ensure responsible harvesting. Bamboo is endlessly renewable, aids in preventing soil erosion and sucks up copious amounts of carbon. Plus, it produces a soft and durable material that can be used for a variety of products. As a company, Cariloha takes sustainability to another level with transparency in its efforts to become a completely carbon neutral company. It measures its carbon output along the entire supply chain and continuously looks for ways to minimize its footprint. The carbon left over from operations is offset through support of forest restoration, renewable energy and clean and efficient energy. 

Related: Cariloha luxury textiles use organic, sustainable bamboo

Cariloha bed sheets review

The company provided a set of the Resort bamboo bed sheets, made of 100% viscose from bamboo. Delivery was quick and the packaging impressive. However, the box the sheets came in was placed inside a plastic bag, but the bag is made from 100% recycled materials. The box itself is very sturdy and endlessly reusable. Removing the sheets from the box, I immediately noticed the weight. These sheets have a heavy feel. Not in a suffocating way, but in a way that speaks to quality. The material is breathable, soft and incredibly luxurious. The sheets fit nicely over my deep, pillow top mattress and stay securely in place. Although the pillow cases are labeled as standard size, they are generous and provide extra coverage for our pillows. These are a cozy gift any recipient would enjoy.

PrAna Loungewear

If you’re looking for some cozy clothing, look no further than PrAna. This is a long-standing, purpose-driven brand that’s dedicated to responsible material sourcing, environmental protections and social responsibility. The newest product line is soft loungewear that incorporates recycled materials rather than using virgin materials. Products are made in a Fair Trade Certified factory and responsibly shipped with minimal packaging, which is sourced from recycled or natural materials. 

Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Bundle

Turn any bathroom into a spa-like experience with these bamboo and cotton towels. Across the product line, Cozy Earth is dedicated to safe and environmentally-friendly supply chain and manufacturing processes. It maintains direct relationships with bamboo growers and factory workers to ensure safe working conditions and minimal pollution and waste. Cozy Earth produces bedding, bath products and clothing, several of which have earned a place on Oprah’s acclaimed “Favorite Things” list. 

Cozy Earth Waffle Bath Bundle and Robe review

As a follow up to a previous article I covered on Cozy Earth’s new loungewear line, the company sent me a gift package that included the Waffle Bath Bundle (an Oprah pick for 2022). I received two bath sheets, two bath towels, two hand towels and four washcloths. After using the bath sheets this past few weeks, I can personally tell you I’ve never felt so spoiled. I could just wear this towel all day. It’s woven on one side and offers a softer material on the other. What can I say? These towels are gorgeous, soft and absorbent. I hope they live up to their 10-year warranty because I’m handing the rest of my towels down to my kids. 

By the way, the company also provided a waffle bath robe and O.M.Goodness. It’s more than I ever expected. Of course, I’ve never really visited a proper spa, but this robe is nicer than just about any hotel robe I’ve worn. Again, it’s difficult to get dressed when lounging in these towels and robes is an option. Either would make an amazing gift, along with pretty much anything the company makes.

Glerups slippers

For indoor or outdoor use, you can call Glerups slippers, shoes, slides or boots. They are made from 100% pure natural wool and rely on non-toxic chemicals to dye the products. The goal for each pair of footwear is longevity and comfort. Additionally, the company focuses on quality and durability with a dedication to responsible wool sourcing, proper treatment of the animals and regenerative farming practices on the lands where they roam. In conjunction with other product manufacturers, Glerups produces secondary products from leftover materials in order to minimize waste. Glerups shoes are offered in a selection of designs and several colors. Moreover, all options are available with leather or rubber bottoms. Glerups are designed in Denmark and manufactured at the company’s factory in Romania.

Nomadix blanket

Lastly, for the soccer family, supportive grandparent or outdoor enthusiast, this is a blanket that’s packed and ready to travel. The Nomadix Puffer Blanket is rated for temperatures down to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, so it’s a good option for the boat, the beach or around the backyard fire pit. It stuffs into a bag for quick and compact storage. Use it as a blanket, cloak or minimalist sleeping bag. The outer layer is made from 100% post-consumer recycled polyester and the inside is made up of recycled polyester fill. The company is equally well-known for its line of colorful, lightweight and versatile towels. Best of all, Nomadix is a member of 1% for the Planet, is a climate neutral company and supports wetland conservation, forest management and clean energy initiatives. 

Images via Cariloha, PrAna, Glerups, Nomadix and Cozy Earth

Editor’s Note: This product review is not sponsored by Cariloha and Cozy Earth. All opinions on the products and company are the author’s own.

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Print custom patterns for your walls with Kirei Ink

If you’ve been looking for acoustic wall products to dampen sound in a space, but don’t like ugly foam, Kirei has a new solution that’s beautiful and sustainable. Kirei Ink allows you to print colors and patterns such as wood grain onto acoustic wall panels.

Kirei Ink is custom-printed acoustic recycled PET panels and products that speak volumes without making a sound. Forty-eight prints curated into four collections comprise the Kirei Ink collection, which gives you the acoustic performance of PET with the warm look of wood, concrete, marble or geometric patterns. Kirei Ink is 100% customizable and printed in-house, so any of the print can be applied to its products, including baffles, clouds, wall tiles and more. 

Related: Durable and sustainable menswear fabric is here to stay

For instance, the Biophilia Collection includes abstract prints of leaves and flowers. Didn’t find what you were looking for? Kirei even custom prints your own designs, from graphics to patterns.

Above all, the secret to Kirei’s sustainability is in the PET sourcing. Kirei’s PET products are made from 60% recycled post-consumer plastics, which diverts hundreds of plastic bottles from landfills per panel. It’s Red List Free, Global Green Tag Certified and HPD Certified, meaning there are no nasty chemicals that could affect someone’s health.

The LED inks contain less than .03% volatile organic compounds and are void of heavy metals. They contain up to 50% monomers and oligomers naturally derived from renewable resources, such as plants and biomass. These panels are also used for LEED certified building, are low VOC, meaning they don’t outgas and have a Class A fire rating. That’s pretty impressive.

Best of all, you can request ink samples from Kirei to look over for your design project. Or you can work with a representative to come up with a custom design for your space. Whether you’re insulating a music practice room, taking the echo out of a public office building or just cozying up your home, Kirei Ink products can help you achieve the exact look and effect you’re after without damaging the environment.

+ Kirei

Images via Kirei

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3D printed furniture designs by a collaboration of designers

Art is an ever-evolving means of evoking emotion and conversations. The collaboration on display at the Solana Embassy in the Wynwood District at 215 NW 24th St. in Miami from Nov. 29 through Dec. 13 is a perfect example of this point. 

The mission-driven display is a collaboration between Model No. Furniture, Prowl Studio and Mike Han. They all share a mission of creating art and furniture that explores the possibilities of natural materials, 3D technology and a new mindset around furniture manufacturing that is less wasteful at every stage of the supply chain and manufacturing process. 

Related: Humanscale wows with 26 net-positive certified products

“Endless Loop: From Waste to Wanted” is an installation that presents a “compelling vision and path to reduce the [furniture] industry’s environmental footprint by employing local, circular and digital manufacturing practices to design and produce furnishings that are stylish and sustainable,” according to a press release.

As a result, it takes form in three primary entries. In each case, the pieces are formed using natural, locally-sourced materials such as fallen trees, plant materials and upcycled plant waste from the nearby Bay. 

The first is a fluted table and stool set designed by Prowl Studio. They are made from salvaged hardwood and collected sawdust that was mixed into PLA pellets before being 3D printed into form. 

“As a studio, we use design to tell stories about the climate crisis we are facing and the ways we can shift our manufacturing practices towards positive change,” said Lauryn Menard and Baillie Mishler of PROWL. “We saw Model No. as the perfect partner to implement this narrative material way of thinking. Because they were already working with Arborica, a local arborist, and working to create recycled 3D printing processes, we saw the opportunity to bring those two things together to tell a full, truly circular manufacturing story – from end to end. This is the foundation of all of our work and we are excited to share it with this group.”

The second piece is designed by Mike Han. Called “Full Circle,” the monolith represents the idea that all things have a purpose. Made with the digital aids of CNC carving and 3D printing, it was produced with zero waste. 

“My creative practice is driven by the understanding that in order to create, you must destroy,” said Artist Mike Han. “I believe there is a burden and responsibility in making things, so having the opportunity to collaborate with Model No. to create with zero waste has been inspiring. I’m humbled to exhibit alongside innovators like PROWL.”

The third piece, from Model No., also relies on traditional craftsmanship coupled with 3D printing technology to create geometric-shaped stands. 

“When we no longer have use for something, we’ve become programmed to discard material possessions like furniture or clothing. Through our collaboration with PROWL and Mike Han, we’re excited to show the industry that there is a growing trend to change the way that we design, manufacture, distribute and consume furniture and art,” said Phillip Raub Model No. CEO. 

+ Model No. Furniture, Prowl Studio and Mike Han

Images via Model No. Furniture, Prowl Studio and Mike Han

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