The first home in California to be Zero Carbon certified

It sits on a flat stretch of green, surrounded by the rolling hills and pretty palm trees of Southern California. It’s an amazing little oasis, a quiet getaway. And it’s the first building in California to receive Zero Carbon Certification from the International Living Future Institute. It’s only the fourth building in the entire world to reach this status. This home is called Zero One by MariSol Malibu and it’s the first of its kind.

This lovely home is in Malibu and it’s not just zero carbon, it’s a carbon sink because of the sustainable materials used on the site. The standards set by the International Living Future Institute are considered to be the hardest to meet. This is the toughest third-party, zero-carbon certification to receive.

Related: Making zero carbon homes a reality

“The current net zero revolution calls for more active participants in the real estate industry,” said Scott Morris, a zero carbon developer on the project team. “If you are a property developer or construction company executive, it’s not acceptable to just be a spectator anymore. As one of only four buildings in the world to achieve ILFI’s Zero Carbon Certification, Zero One serves as a blueprint for responsible homebuilding, illustrating that sustainability and luxury can effectively coexist.”

Zero One was built with sustainably harvested local lumber and USA-sourced FSC lumber. The foundation is a raised timber design, rather than a concrete slab. Structural steel was used instead of engineered wood. The insulation is recycled blown-in cellulose. Standing-seam aluminum sourced from the U.S. was used for the roof.

Additionally, the dedicated energy recovery ventilator provides filtered air constantly. The water heat pump draws from the ambient atmosphere to create heat. There are six bedrooms, nine bathrooms, a saltwater pool and an organic fruit orchard with a large vegetable and herb garden. There’s even an apiary, which will provide fresh honey. Zero Two will be completed soon.

+ MariSol Malibu

Photography by Tanveer Badal Photography

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Here's how you could make your next camping sustainable

Camping is one of the greatest joys of summer. With warmer weather, you do not have to be the most experienced camper or have the best gear to survive cold nights. Even amateur camping trips have bug repellent, shelter and s’mores. Stepping up your camping game includes being more sustainable, and many of the ways to do that are easier than you think.

The number one rule in camping is leave it better than you found it or leave no trace, which are common phrases found in parks across the country. It means not only taking care of the things you bring with you and making sure they also go home with you, but picking up things that others may have left behind to ensure nature is safe from as much human harm as possible. Sustainable camping can help you do this both while preparing to camp and while on your trip.

Related: Nestbox turns regular SUVs into camper vans

Picking and arriving at your campsite

When searching for your next great camping adventure, it is important to keep in mind that there are camping restrictions for a reason. Camping only in designated areas, whether on campgrounds or with permitted access, are important to keep the wildlife and you safe.

Especially during peak camping season, such as summer, it can be important to choose less crowded parks and campsites. Like the ecosystem, the infrastructure of parks can only handle so much human traffic before trash cans are full, paths are well worn out and park staff is stretched thin. Instead, choose a slightly less populated area that can sustainably support you. This will make your experience more fun while also ensuring you have a peaceful time with access to first aid and other supplies you need. Alternatively, you can camp in the off-season or during the week when fewer weekend campers may be present.

How you arrive at and get around your campsite can be just as important to the environment. If you can camp within driving distance, do it! This reduces the amount of time you are going to be traveling and keeps your flight footprint low. Carpooling when possible is the best option if multiple households are traveling to the same location. This reduces the number of cars on the road and the amount of carbon emissions generated. Once you have arrived at your destination, try to ride a bike or walk while you are there. This helps you stay in the fresh air and avoid getting in the car for short trips.

You are presumably camping to get out of the area you live in, see new sites and experience nature. No matter where you end up, you should be able to accomplish these goals while remaining eco-friendly.

Choosing and caring for gear

The first step to getting outside is having the supplies to do so. You will likely be in a more remote area with little to no access to indoor plumbing, air conditioning and readily available food. Being prepared is the first step in camping and that means gear. Questions to ask yourself include: How many people will be going with you and for how long? Who is able to carry their own supplies and who cannot? Where are you going and how close will you be to a grocery store if you need it? These answers will determine what backpacks, tents and gear you may need.

You can do a ton of helpful research on gear, but you will never know what works best for you until you test it out. Used, rented or borrowed gear is a great place to start. Not only are you not buying new products that use more greenhouse gases to produce, but you are also not wasting any or as much money if the product is not exactly what you need. Additionally, used gear tends to be cheaper with the same high quality and lifetime use at many outdoor stores. Stores like REI and Patagonia will repair your gear for free, or with just the cost of shipping, and they will also take your gear when you are done with it to give it a new home. They will also repair clothing in most cases.

Another solution is buying gear made from recycled materials. These often come at higher prices, but if you are looking for new gear, buying one made of used materials is a good compromise. Logically, many outdoor and camping companies are trying to do better for the environment and participate in the leave no trace philosophy in their manufacturing. That is good news for consumers who can find eco-friendly camping products far and wide.

Packing food and supplies

You want to carry the least amount of weight, especially if you are doing anything more than driving your car to a campsite. This often means we opt for pre-packaged trail mix, granola bars and oatmeal because they are light and easy to eat. However, they pose a single-use plastic problem when it comes to sustainability, and that problem only increases when you do not have easy access to a trash can.

The easiest solution to pre-packaged goods is buying ingredients in bulk and making or prepping your food before you leave. Homemade protein bars, granolas and various dried pasta or bean dishes are simple to prep before you go. Beeswax wraps, reusable plastic containers and silicon bags are all lightweight and allow you to store your food without plastic bags.

Just like we do not want to litter, it is also important not to bring toxic chemicals into the wilderness. Make sure you are using biodegradable soap and look for bars that can be used for showering, laundry and dishes. Use less water by doing your dishes once a day and showering less frequently than you would at home; you are just going to be dirty again anyway! Remember: dump our liquid waste into the earth and not waterways.

Choose reef-friendly sunscreens and natural bug sprays when possible. Bring reusable dishes, water bottles and cooking utensils to avoid unnecessary waste. And if you need to bring any portable chargers or lamps, try solar-powered devices that you can strap to your backpack or set on a table for electricity without emissions.

When in doubt, ask fellow campers. This can include friends and family, staff at outdoor stores or searching for tips on social media or online. Ample blogs and social media accounts exist to help new and experienced campers pack lighter, camp more sustainably and get more out of their trips.

Camping can be a cheaper vacation that gets everybody outside. Remember to collect any waste you may leave behind. Do your best to make small changes that will have a big impact, and leave it better than you found it.

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Explore these unique sustainable pergola design Ideas

The pergola is one aspect of ancient architecture that remains relevant today. Pergolas date back to ancient Egypt, but the concept itself might have come much earlier. The evolution of pergolas has witnessed many changes along the way. Today, it is technically impossible to draw a line between a pergola and a gazebo. However, for clarity, we will stick to the traditional idea of a pergola, one that is relatively merged with the house design.

The theme of sustainability features heavily in modern home designs, and rightfully so. Gone are the days when all that mattered was aesthetics. In the modern design of pergolas, it is key to make the design as sustainable as possible. Merging your pergola with nature makes it sustainable and livable at the same time.

Related: Unique pergola located in Japan merges with its environment

Building sustainable structures such as pergolas can be attained in several ways. For instance, a pergola can be made to be fully self-sufficient with renewable energy. Some designs eliminate the need for energy use at all. The design you go for will primarily depend on what area of sustainability you are targeting.

Let us look at some pergola designs that can help you attain sustainability.

Energy-efficient solar panel roof

Domestic energy consumption accounts for about 21% of the energy used in America. This value can be brought down by adopting sustainable home designs. In the case of a pergola, it can be as simple as using a solar panel roof.

There are several solar panel roofing options to choose from. You may decide to go for solar shingles or iron sheets. They are both trendy, presentable and, most importantly, sustainable. The beauty of shingles lies in the fact that they have a long lifespan of up to 30 years.

Given that most pergolas are very tiny in size, covering an entire roof with shingles should not be an expensive affair. If you are looking to design a pergola that is not connected to the grid, go for solar. This design will also save you massive electricity bills in the long run.

The downside of using solar on a pergola roof is that you might have to go for a slightly slanting design. As we know, most pergolas work well with cantilever roofs, which may not have a sufficient slope. To attain maximum sunlight exposure, you should consider slanting your solar roof.

DIY pergola with recycled materials

The materials used on a pergola can also help attain some level of sustainability. Developers have been able to build mansions from sustainable recycled materials. If such levels of structural accuracy can be attained with huge structures, it should be a no-brainer for your pergola.

There is a wide range of recycled materials to consider for your pergola. You may feel used shipping containers, leftover lumber, broken glasses and waste tiles, among others. Recycling whatever is available at home will not only help you cut the cost, but save the world from excess waste.

Regarding recycling, using non-sustainable materials such as plastic is encouraged. Using the waste plastic on your pergola will save it from ending up in our ecosystem. To your advantage, using recycled materials always means lower construction costs.

All organic pergola design

Construction waste accounts for a third of solid waste globally and contributes up to 40% of carbon emissions. These figures are indicative of the fact that most constructions use materials that are not degradable. The use of biodegradable materials can help get rid of excessive solid waste and reduce emissions.

For your pergola, aim for organic but trendy materials such as cross laminated timber (CLT), which is not only durable but also appealing. You may also use different types of timber and recyclable metals. For the roof, consider bamboo, grass and asphalt shingles. When choosing the materials to use, go for durability and pay attention to long-term environmental impact.

It is worth noting that the use of organic materials may prove quite challenging if you intend to go 100% organic. Even so, you may attain up to 90% organic material use.

The green pergola merged with the garden

Green does not always mean sustainable, but more often than not it means eco-friendly. In other words, even if you have made your pergola out of non-sustainable materials, you may still make it eco-friendly by going green.

One of the ways to go all out and attain sustainability is to build a naked structure and cover it up with climbing plants. You may also design walls with spaces for planting flowers and other greens. Make sure the outdoors of your pergola is also well decorated with greens to match your structure. You may also want to consider a green roof.

Minimalist pergola design

Minimalism is a concept that can help us save the world from unnecessary clutter. Do you need a pergola? If yes, what size is suitable for your use? These are some of the questions that can help you attain minimalism. If all you need is an outdoor resting place for one person, why not go for an arbor instead of a pergola?

Some ideas for minimalists include going for the smallest size possible and avoiding interior clutter with minimal seats. You may also go for a skeleton design instead of putting up walls to minimize the materials used.

Pergolas are an ideal way of beautifying your home. They offer a good opportunity to express your design ideas and showcase the beauty of your outdoors. In your desire to spice up your outdoor space, consider sustainability. There are many ways you may make your pergola sustainable. The few options above should give you a good starting point. 

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Gomi speakers are made from recycled e-bike batteries

Gomi has revolutionized the electronics industry by tackling the persistent problem of proper disposal at the end of a product’s life. Unlike many other speaker companies, Gomi adopts a circular approach that enhances product longevity and significantly reduces pre and post-consumer waste.

Each part of Gomi speakers are carefully evaluated on a sustainability scale. As a result, the company has created speakers that are handmade in the U.K. and incorporate recycled waste materials. 

Related: This eco-friendly wooden laptop is designed to curb e-waste

Therefore, Collection One is a line of limited edition portable Bluetooth speakers, developed using recycled waste plastic. Gomi reports the collection has diverted over six tons of waste from the waste stream and that each speaker incorporates the equivalent of 44 plastic bags in its production. In addition, the manufacturing gives a second life to used e-bike batteries. 

After use, Gomi builds on the eco-friendly design by offering trade-ins and repairs to extend the life of each speaker. Each of the 29 components can be removed and replaced or upgraded to promote a long-lasting and durable modular design. 

In a press release, the company said, “In the current climate of mass production, low-cost and low-quality products, Gomi aims to promote conscious purchase decisions.”

With a cradle-to-cradle design process, the company highlights a carbon neutral system. Gomi proudly claims the speakers offer superior sound quality and the ability to link speakers together for a surround sound experience. Along the way, the company also focuses on improving the often sterile look of their electronics with three colorways that were inspired by art. Made by hand, the marbling pattern is unique for every speaker. Each speaker in the limited release also features an individual edition number. 

Rishi Gupta, cofounder and CEO at Gomi said, “At Gomi we envision a world where waste is not seen as a problem, but as a resource that can be transformed into beautiful and unique masterpieces that fuse form and function. We believe that design is a force for change that can inspire equitable solutions to our throwaway culture, by acknowledging the value of waste and our responsibility towards all the stakeholders of our planet. ”

Tom Meades, cofounder and Chief Design Officer added, “Every material and design decision is filtered through our thinking ‘can it be repaired easily, can it be recycled easily’ — this is why we’re anti-glue, pro-modularity and proudly repair-for-life. At Gomi we are proving that there is a process to recycling properly, that we can create exciting products from waste, and bring beauty and individuality into tech.”

+ Gomi 

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These stylish shoes contain recycled and natural materials

When it comes to shoes, sustainability, comfort and style don’t often appear at the same time. Dansko, a well-respected brand with employees on their feet in the medical, teaching and hospitality industries, might be the exception to that conundrum. 

As a company, Dansko demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability through various aspects of its products and operations. 

Related: Particle creates housewares out of repurposed sneakers

I’m Green bio-based EVA

Dansko utilizes I’m Green bio-based EVA in the Kane, Kandi and Krystal styles. This material is made from rapidly renewable sugar cane plants. Each product features over 50% of the material, reducing the use of fossil fuel-based content and the dependence on non-renewable resources.

Vibram outsole and chrome-free materials

The Dayna sandal features a Vibram outsole, known for its durability and performance. The materials used are sourced from a minimum of 30% recycled Vibram rubber. Additionally, Dansko incorporates chrome-free materials in the Dayna sandals, such as chrome-free suede uppers and leather linings. Chrome-free materials reduce the use of harmful chemicals and minimize environmental impact.

Meanwhile, the midsole is made from natural materials from a combination of cork and EVA.

Recycled webbing

The Rosette and Racqule sandals are made with recycled webbing. By utilizing recycled materials, Dansko reduces waste and promotes resource conservation.

Other sustainable material usage

Dansko’s Kane style is made with more than 50% bio-based material, contributing to a reduced environmental impact. Similarly, Krystal sandals are built with I’m Green materials, further emphasizing the company’s focus on sustainability.

B Corp Certification

Dansko earned B Corp Certification long before it was en-vogue to do so. It was an easy decision for the company, which has focused on environmental and humanitarian efforts since day one. 

Gold LEED-certified headquarters

Dansko’s headquarters is certified under the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program at the gold level. This certification signifies that the building has met strict criteria for sustainable design, construction and operation.

While the company was originally best known for its clogs, it now features a full range of sandals, Mary Janes, sneakers, boots, flats, heels and more. 

+ Dansko 

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Particle creates housewares out of repurposed sneakers

Particle, a furniture and homeware brand, is setting a new standard for sustainability and design. Founded by Krissy Harbert and Amanda Rawlings, Particle transforms 100% recycled content from used sneakers and footwear materials into furniture and homewares. 

An environmental approach

Particle operates in two sectors: HOME, offering a curated collection of pre-designed furniture and home products, and STUDIO, specializing in bespoke designs and collaborative projects. With a focus on sustainability, playfulness and inclusivity, Particle’s Homewares Capsule Collection brings new life to post-consumer and post-industrial waste. The goal is igniting creativity in every space while fostering spaces that support both solitude and communal gathering.

Related: An incredible wood alternative made from rice hulls

Creative transformation of shoe waste

Krissy Harbert and Amanda Rawlings bring their expertise in architecture and interior architecture to Particle’s mission. Drawing on their experience in crafting branded interior spaces, they recognized the demand for sustainable, well-designed products tailored to the unique needs of small urban spaces. Utilizing discarded sneaker and footwear materials, Particle converts shoe waste into coasters, placemats, chairs and stools, infusing new energy into each piece.

Sustainability and design in harmony

Particle’s collection exemplifies the spirit of sustainability. By harnessing the innovative use of 100% post-consumer and post-industrial EVA waste, the brand creates thoughtfully designed furniture and homeware objects. The result is a range of captivating creations that align with Particle’s aesthetic vision while promoting eco-consciousness.

Playfulness and approachability

Particle’s Homewares Capsule Collection draws inspiration from the color trends of past footwear collections. Recognizing the potential in the industry’s waste, the brand transforms it into an assortment that resonates with their playful and lighthearted approach to design. Whether customers are design enthusiasts, fashion aficionados or simply looking to inject fun into their lives, Particle offers relatable and approachable products that inspire creativity and spontaneity.

Promoting sustainability and eco-consciousness

Krissy and Amanda understand that life is messy and believe in reducing waste and repurposing materials without sacrificing fun and durability. Particle’s designs are created to withstand everyday use, allowing customers to feel free to let loose and enjoy their products. The brand’s goal is to inspire while promoting sustainability and eco-consciousness, encouraging customers to embrace a more playful and sustainable lifestyle.

+ Particle

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Kane Footwear program upcycles your shoes into yoga mats

Kane Footwear, a leading sustainable active recovery footwear brand, introduced Project Renew, an upcycling program that allows customers to send back their well-loved Revive slip-ons to be transformed into yoga and changing mats. 

In collaboration with Lavarubber, the shoes are shredded into flakes, which are then mixed with a Lavarubber blend that includes wetsuits to create the mats. Each mat incorporates materials that divert five pounds of waste from landfills. 

Related: Slip on these shoes made from algae by Blowfish Malibu

“Lava Rubber and Kane Footwear are focused on providing customers with consciously-made goods, and it was only natural we work together,” said Michael Briody, founder and CRO at Lava Rubber. “We recognize the same positive energy in each other’s business models and knew our collaboration would produce something special. The KANE x Lava Rubber Mat Collection really brings our visions together and translates them into a physical form. Each mat is unique and considered a one of one. We hope the world enjoys these as much as we do!” 

The initiative aligns with Kane’s commitment to sustainability and expands their range of eco-friendly offerings. Customers who participate in the program receive a $10 gift card to the Kane website.  

The most recent addition to the Kane product lineup is this year’s Earth Day release, a shoe featuring a colorway inspired by the heritage of Brazilian sugarcane, the main ingredient in their Revive slip-ons. The shoes utilize RestoreFoam, a plant-based EVA foam made from over 75% Brazilian sugarcane byproduct, which not only sequesters CO2 during the sugarcane’s growth but also makes it a carbon-negative material.

“Sustainability has always been a core tenet of Kane’s principles, and this latest initiative expands our offerings even further, providing customers with a simple upcycling option,” said John Gagliardi, Kane Footwear Founder and CEO.

Kane is looking into the future of its sustainability efforts with an application for B Corp Certification and a long-term commitment to environmental issues. The company is a member of 1% for the Planet and all packaging is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council as being sourced from sustainably-managed forests. 

+ Kane

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Check out an all-natural solution for single-use containers

“We know that recycling doesn’t work. Over 90% of U.S. plastic waste is never recycled because most products marketed as ‘compostable’ or ‘biodegradable’ require special processing – a process that is too expensive and not commonly available. Chances are, your on-the-go coffee cup will wind up in the landfill,” said GaeaStar.

GaeaStar, a technology company based in San Francisco and Berlin, developed ultra-thin clay containers as an alternative to single-use plastic. The containers are created through high-speed additive manufacturing (3D printing) and consist of three simple ingredients: clay, water and salt. 

Related: Plant-based coffee pods can be composted in your backyard

These containers are geoneutral, meaning they come from natural earth materials and produce zero harmful waste. Users can dispose of the containers in regular trash or even smash them on the ground, as they turn into dust without causing any environmental harm. This eliminates the need for recycling. They can also be washed and reused, and are appropriate for both hot and cold beverages. 

GaeaStar’s containers have gained significant demand and have received $6.5 million in seed funding to expand their presence in the U.S., starting with San Francisco. By drawing inspiration from 5,000-years-old clay cups called “Kuhlars” and combining them with modern technology, GaeaStar offers a solution to the single-use waste problem. 

Furthermore, the company aims to provide sustainable food and beverage containers that are not only environmentally friendly but also offer a high-end user experience. Their approach focuses on creating products that originate from the Earth and return to it without contributing to harmful waste in landfills and waterways. The containers look like terracotta, which is more appealing than plastic or paper. Plus, they are stronger than paper and can be customized. The company can print them in different sizes to cater to varying needs. The surface is also printable so the cups can be used as a marketing material for business, especially those interested in environmental messaging.

“With the amount of single-use plastic piling up in our environment increasing, it’s obvious that recycling is not a functioning solution to plastic,” explained Sophie Lamparter, managing partner of DART Labs Ventures. “Sanjeev and his team at GaeaStar have finally presented a realistic way of doing so without the need to drastically change human behavior while making it easy for us all to do our part in creating a future with less waste. Our team is humbled to join this journey and witness GaeaStar transform the market for plastic alternatives.”

+ GaeaStar

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Recycled materials in 3D printing technology for lighting

The Empire State Building, the Sphinx, even the Great Wall of China will, one day, be nothing but memories and a few remnants of what once was. The true legacy of the human race is plastic. It has found its way to every corner of the globe and it is floating in huge patches on the ocean water.

LightArt has found a way to change that legacy of dumping unbiodegradable trash all over the planet into one that’s a bit nobler. This is the Ocean Coil Collection, a stunning set of light fixtures made from ocean and nearshore plastic. Two different colors of plastic were combined to create Marina, a beautiful material that looks like sea glass.

Related: These light fixtures are 3D printed and biodegradable

Marina is joined by Sea Foam and Seagrass, two other color options. All materials are made from reclaimed ocean plastic. The fixtures were created with 3D printing technology, which has made its way into more and more industries, including home design.

“Utilizing recycled materials in 3D printing technology is new for lighting manufacturing, especially at a mass scale,” said the company. “Our team recognized that material types change how products are made, and introducing a new material like Marina required this level of reengineering.”

LightArt partnered with Oceanworks, a company that specializes in retrieving plastic from the ocean. LightArt’s mission focuses on people, product and planet. The company focuses on reducing the negative impact of people on the planet, something that many more companies ought to do.

Scientists estimate that in 2010 alone, eight million metric tons of plastic found its way into the oceans. More and more plastic finds its way into ocean waters every single year.

This company is leading the way by flipping one of the ugly legacies of the human race and using it to create something beautiful and positive. LightArt is literally lighting the way to a brighter future for the planet.

+ LightArt

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From rings to cards, here's how to make your wedding eco

The celebration of marriage is a fun and exciting time. As you plan to share the joy of your nuptials with family and friends, make the event extra special by minimizing the party’s impact on the environment. Consider the long-term effects of your wedding and reception by making a plan to purchase sustainable products, minimize waste and reduce energy consumption at every step in the journey. 

Sustainable jewelry

Starting with the proposal, choose jewelry made from ethically sourced or recycled materials, such as recycled gold or lab-grown diamonds. One example is the Ring Bear brand, a specialist in men’s wedding bands that are comfortable and made from recycled gold and platinum.

Related: Where to find eco-friendly engagement and wedding rings

As another option, take advantage of family heirlooms for a special touch. Alternately, head to a vintage jewelry dealer to find just the right ring without the need for mining and manufacturing virgin materials, a process that often introduces pollution and human injustices. 

Environmentally-friendly venue

Select a venue that prioritizes sustainability, such as LEED-certified buildings or eco-friendly event spaces. Consider outdoor locations like gardens, parks or beaches, which have a lower ecological impact.

Party size

Each additional guest adds to the carbon footprint of the event. From transportation to and from the venue to additional food and supplies, keeping the guest list to a minimum creates a more sustainable celebration. Invite your closest friends and family, but give some thought to any “extras” you may feel obligated to invite. 

Transportation

Speaking of transportation, let your guests know your goals as they relate to an eco-friendly wedding. Encourage carpooling, public transportation or provide shuttle services to reduce carbon emissions from transportation.

Eco-friendly invitations

Times are changing and the digital world has streamlined party invitations, RSVP responses and gift registries. Reduce the amount of paper and ink waste by taking advantage of these offerings. Use digital invitations or organize the event through a wedding website and minimize carbon emissions from shipping invitations to you and then out to your guests.

If physical invitations are preferred, choose recycled paper or plantable seed paper that guests can sow later!

Minimize waste

At the event, focus your efforts on reducing waste as much as possible. There are countless ways to go about this. With each decision, keep the idea in the forefront of your planning. 

For example, consider renting plates and glassware or ask guests to bring refillable water bottles instead of buying single-use plastic. 

Create clearly designated spaces for compost, recycling and redeemable bottles and cans. If you have a guest willing to help, have someone man the station during meal times to ensure items are sorted properly. Otherwise, use signs to help guide your guests during disposal. 

Serve up sustainable dinnerware

If you’re having a sit down, formal event, your caterer will likely provide the required dishware, utensils and glassware. If not, you can rent items or even borrow them from friends. 

If reusable isn’t the best option, invest in compostable dinnerware and cutlery made from materials like bamboo or palm leaf. For example, Repurpose Compostables offers plant-based cake plates, utensils and several sizes of compostable cups. Similarly, Primeware offers a dinner plate made from sugarcane that is strong, leak-proof and compostable.

When choosing your dinnerware, do a bit of research to establish whether the goods you select are backyard compostable or commercially compostable so you understand the proper way to dispose of them. 

Decorations

Make your wedding venue welcoming and celebratory with live flowers, candles made from natural materials and earth-friendly ribbons made from hemp, jute and other biodegradable goods. 

Skip balloons, plastic tablecloths and centerpieces that can’t be recycled or reused. Instead, use cotton, eucalyptus or bamboo table covers and display flowers, gourds, pumpkins or potted plants as centerpieces. 

Thoughtful menu choices

When it comes to the menu, decide what type of food you want to serve and then prioritize locally-sourced, organic and seasonal ingredients to support local farmers and reduce transportation emissions. Offer vegetarian or vegan options to reduce the carbon footprint associated with meat production. You can turn the job over to a caterer or even food trucks who run their businesses in alignment with your goals. 

To significantly reduce waste and resources required for a meal, plan your event in between mealtimes and make a light offering such as cake instead. 

Energy efficiency

To minimize energy consumption during your wedding and reception, ask about the energy sources at your venue. Prioritize those that invest in renewable energy. Also consider planning the event during the daytime to reduce lighting needs. If you’re setting up your own venue, choose energy-efficient lighting options such as LED or solar-powered lights. Consider using candles or lanterns for a romantic atmosphere, but choose ones made from soy or beeswax.

Conclusion

Remember, hosting a sustainable wedding is a journey, and even small steps towards sustainability can make a significant impact. Make one decision at a time and you’ll be surprised at how many options you’ll find.

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Plant-based coffee pods can be composted in your backyard

Smile Compostable Solutions offers plant-based coffee pods designed to compost in backyard compost systems. These pods are a sustainable alternative to petroleum plastic, providing a simple, single-use experience while eliminating hard-to-recycle materials. 

Now customers can fuel their day with the convenience of a Keurig-style machine without the waste associated with single-use plastic pods. The company’s home compostable coffee pods can be tossed directly into the home compost pile. 

Related: Compostable packaging from TIPA takes plastic out of the equation

Smile Coffee Werks, a tactical sub-brand of Smile Compostable Solutions, developed a pod that can be used in the popular Nespresso Original brewers. The design was selected as a finalist for the 2023 Sustainable Packaging Innovation Award by the U.S. Plastics Pact. 

“Innovation is at the heart of Smile’s strategy for convenience and sustainability,” said CEO and Cofounder Michael Sand. “The company is proud to be recognized as a finalist for this prestigious award alongside other companies who are making a difference in the steps toward a circular economy. Addressing single-use plastic with high carbon footprints and low recycling rates is key to a sustainable future.”

Smile Compostable Solutions holds a range of certifications, including BPI certified and OK COMPOST according to TÜV Austria/Vincotte. They are BPA and PFAS Free and have obtained the Certified BPI Commercially Compostable certification. The bio capsule material is biodegradable according to DIN EN ISO 14855, and the sealing ring is compostable according to supplier’s declaration and certified according to DIN EN 13432:2000-12. 

Smile takes pride in having the most certifications in the industry, emphasizing their dedication to sustainable and compostable packaging. To achieve these certifications, all individual components of the pods, including the pod itself, filter, adhesives and inks, undergo certification processes. The Smile pod system is sold as a complete package, simplifying the transition to compostable and sustainable solutions. 

In terms of sourcing and manufacturing, Smile responsibly sources their coffee beans from Rainforest Alliance Certified farms and collaborates with various roasters, primarily based in Germany. The pods themselves are manufactured exclusively in Germany, in factories using renewable energy sources such as wind, sun, hydropower and biogas.

The product’s outer packaging is made from recycled paperboard without added plastic bags, wrappers or seals, and it is fully recyclable. The company’s supply chain is certified Climate Neutral through ClimatePartner.

+ Smile Coffee Werks 

Images via Smile Compostable Solutions 

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Barco scrubs are made from recycled ocean plastic

Barco, a healthcare apparel company, emphasizes sustainability and humanitarian efforts in its operations.

The company’s designers and pattern makers in Los Angeles meticulously create each garment, ensuring the highest quality. Prototypes are tested by healthcare professionals to gather feedback before going into production, demonstrating Barco’s commitment to excellence and making the job of healthcare professionals easier.

Related: Hospitals are now pressured to provide vegan food

From the beginning, Barco has been dedicated to innovation, utilizing fabric technologies and tailoring techniques to create uniforms that are aesthetically pleasing, easy to maintain and durable. They were the first to use nylon in uniforms, making them wrinkle-free to reduce ironing and saving nurses time and energy. Additionally, Barco introduced pant suits and modern medical scrub sets, which remain popular in the healthcare industry.

Furthermore, recognizing their responsibility to care for the environment, Barco focused on sustainability. They have developed fabrics that incorporate recycled plastic bottles, such as in their Barco One and Skechers by Barco lines. Through this material selection, Barco recycled over 40 million plastic bottles since 2016. Barco One offers athleisure-inspired scrubs with sustainable performance fabric, while Skechers by Barco scrubs provide comfort and style in vibrant colors and prints, with each set made from 14 recycled plastic bottles.

Moreover, Barco has prioritized inclusivity in their designs. They were the first to offer tops and bottoms separately, catering to a range of sizes and body shapes. Fashion scrubs with print tops were another Barco innovation that remains popular today.

Beyond their sustainability efforts, Barco’s Chairman of the Board, Michael Donner and his wife Frida established the Barco’s Nightingales Foundation (BNF) in 2008. Inspired by healthcare professionals’ life-saving work, BNF focuses on providing services to children worldwide. In Haiti, BNF has initiated a food program benefitting 6,000 families in remote villages. 

Additionally, the foundation has constructed seven solar water wells to provide safe drinking water in these communities. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Barco donated over 35,000 scrubs to frontline healthcare professionals and essential workers, while BNF contributed 350,000 masks to six local hospitals in California. These efforts reflect Barco’s belief that caring for others is a broad spectrum endeavor. 

+ Barco

Images via Barco

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This hybrid power headlamp shines toward a brighter future

In the same way hybrid cars increase efficiency by tapping into dual power options, Infinity X1 technology uses the concept of hybrid power to reduce single-use battery disposal in flashlights, headlamps and other lighting products. 

Infinity X1 technology has been in development since the company got its start as a market research group in 2005. In the years since, Infinity X1 has honed in on a core technology that handles multiple power sources at once, primarily a rechargeable core and a battery-powered backup. This allows users to primarily rely on rechargeable power. 

Related: New EV aqueous battery charges in just three minutes

Additionally, the Infinity X1 flashlight lineup offers three options with 4000, 2500 or 1500 lumen. Each flashlight features an adjustable beam width and a power indicator to let you know when you’ll need a recharge or a swap over to dry batteries. The flashlights incorporate recycled materials and are designed with a focus on durability for long-term use. 

Infinity X1 has also developed a headlamp with its hybrid technology, which can be recharged rather than contributing to copious disposable battery waste. The team also offers a 2800 lumen lantern with four light output intensities, six light color options and hybrid technology that reduces the use of D cell batteries. 

The company continues to seek out ways to further its sustainability goals. Starting in 2020, it began developing packaging with a focus on environmental health. As a result, the eco-friendly packaging is compostable and water soluble. The company reported, “The inner and outer packaging is 100% biodegradable and compostable, including the user manual, which can be dissolved in water.”

The Infinity X1 team is in the U.S., based out of San Diego, CA. Each product offers a lifetime warranty, hassle-free returns and free shipping. The next company goal is the implementation of a recycling program for both alkaline and lithium rechargeable batteries.

+ Infinity X1

Images via Infinity X1

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Slip on these shoes made from algae by Blowfish Malibu

Blowfish Malibu got its start as a small shoe company. Since its humble beginnings, it has consistently evolved, drawing attention for its investments in the environment and sustainable materials. 

The company takes pride in offering a casual, California vibe with each sandal and sneaker. It’s even more proud of its two newest product lines: The Bloom Collection and The Vegan Collection.

Related: New Blowfish Malibu shoe collection uses recycled plastic bottles

The Bloom Collection

Blowfish Malibu is making an eco-friendly material upgrade by incorporating BLOOM technology in the insoles of its products. The company reports, “Going forward, Blowfish Malibu will utilize BLOOM pellets in all shoes featuring insoles in our Women’s collections.”

Bloom technology is a step in the right direction because it’s a bio-based technology that can be used for a variety of different applications. It’s a partnership that builds on algae’s useful ability to treat wastewater, capture carbon and produce renewable energy, among other benefits. 

Algae can clean water sources by removing contaminants such as nitrogen and phosphorus. The process involves cultivating algae in tanks or ponds where they absorb and assimilate nutrients from the wastewater. This helps in reducing nutrient pollution and improving water quality.

By culturing algae in controlled environments and providing them with a concentrated source of CO2, they can capture and convert CO2 into biomass. This process can help mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to carbon sequestration efforts.

Algae can also be used as a feedstock for biofuel production. Certain types of algae are rich in oils that can be extracted and converted into biofuels such as biodiesel or bioethanol. 

Algae-based biofuels have the potential to be a renewable and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, as they can be grown using non-arable land and do not compete with food crops.

Through the process refined at Bloom, algae is also converted into a bioplastic material that functions as an ingredient in the flexible foam that makes up Blowfish Malibu’s insole material. 

This is a very young technology, so Blowfish Malibu’s commitment to invest in it supports the scaling efforts as Bloom’s uses continue to expand. 

The Vegan Collection

When Blowfish Malibu began in 2007, its releases featured 100% leather. In the years since, the company has made a lot of changes, perhaps the most notable being the development of an entire product line that is officially registered with the Vegan Society.

The Vegan Collection is completely free of animal products and by-products. Instead, the shoes are composed of manmade materials with an emphasis on quality and durability. 

The company says, “Avoiding animal products is one of the most obvious ways you can take a stand against animal cruelty and animal exploitation everywhere.”

It also recognizes the advantages of vegan products in lowering the carbon footprint along the supply chain. 

In addition to material innovations in its newest collections, Blowfish Malibu partnered with organizations that align with the California company’s humanitarian and environmental efforts. 

Soles4Souls

Through Soles4Souls, entrepreneurs in developing countries can get help starting resale businesses with the aid of donated shoes and clothing. The organization also donates shoes to school children in need, so they can participate in athletic extracurricular opportunities. In addition, Soles4Souls provides shoes and clothing to individuals in crisis situations. 

Surfrider Foundation 

Blowfish Malibu also partners with The Surfrider Foundation, an organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s oceans and beaches.

In its own backyard, Blowfish Malibu has participated in various beach clean-ups in communities throughout Southern California. 

Blowfish Malibu Speedy sneaker review

As part of the BLOOM collection, the Speedy sneaker features an insole made with BLOOM foam. I was intrigued by the standout features of the Speedy sneaker and requested a sample for review. 

I have a few pairs of skater-type shoes, starting with the ubiquitous Converse brand, which is probably the least comfortable sneaker option I own. Sorry if you’re a fan of the brand, but I find them to be lacking in support and with a high arch, my feet quickly tire in them. I mention this merely as a reference of comparison that most people are familiar with. 

The Speedy sneaker by Blowfish Malibu feels like it should be in a different category. Although I would appreciate more arch support, this style of shoe is known for being flat soled, and these are no exception. However, there is a distinct design difference with the Speedy that I don’t have in my other sneakers, and that is an extra thick midsole. For me, this feature makes a huge difference in the impact as I walk. They provide a solid cushion that is much better than sneakers with a thin midsole that leave little protection from step impact. 

The aesthetic of the shoe is delightful, with a contrast in materials between the midsole, the tip and foxing, and the upper. The arch bandage up the side comes in three color options. I chose the White Field/Sand Pixie Leopard Roadtrip and love the Salmon/Blue/Black accent. I can’t say I’m a fan of the leopard material on the pull tab, but it’s certainly not a reflection of the quality of the shoes. 

In addition to the sole enhancement, the other parts of the shoe also speak to quality manufacturing, such as tight stitching and a thick tongue. 

For those considering the Speedy sneaker, note that the toe box is narrow. I have slender feet and was initially concerned these would be too tight for my toes. They do seem to have relaxed a bit, but I’ve consistently worn them with fairly thin socks for the best results. 

+ Blowfish Malibu

Images via Blowfish Malibu

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

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