Don’t Waste It, Reclaim It!
By Candace Sheppard

A vendor’s waste-less philosophy expands the ken of sustainable solutions

Toss around phrases like “green living” and “certified organic” on packaged bamboo sheets or any other naturally derived textile and suddenly anyone can speak and understand “eco-nese.” The green in today’s world of home fashions appears to focus initially on crafting linens from the finest, most natural textiles that are earth friendly. Yet, eco-oriented home fashion vendors are examining the details of the green movement more closely to employ principles that integrate green in every aspect of the business.

Taking a cue from the more purist practice of reduce, reuse and recycle, home fashions company NowDesigns has implemented the shipping of its products in used egg cartons since Fall 2007.

Cardboard boxes may not be as fashion forward as the textile products being shipped, but ultimately the method is environmentally sustainable and results in a positive impact.

According to data supplied by the Forest Sciences department of the University of British Columbia, utilizing used cartons can eliminate the consumption of 75,000 new cartons and the demand for 250 softwood trees to make them—saving time and energy, and conserving natural resources.

“Using the least amount of new materials is what sustainable means [for us],” asserts Jonathan Braude, production manager of NowDesigns. “We tackle green from a variety of angles—from the product we carry to the way we ship it.”

Where styrofoam and paper were readily used as packing filler, biodegradable cardboard egg trays have been used by NowDesigns for the past three years. The company also shreds cartons that are no longer fit for outbound shipping to be reused as filler.

Aside from contributing to the bevy of organic product on the market with items such as its unbleached cotton tea towels, NowDesigns’ green philosophy also rests heavily on working with overseas clients that enforce relatively sound green practices. Being aware of its clients’ work ethics, such as the way in which product waste is managed or fabric dyes are disposed of, is important to NowDesigns, as it seeks to spread green consciousness globally.

“We hope [our practices will] encourage our clients to do more,” says Braude. “That’s important to us.”
The industry can make an even more profound impact on preserving the eco-system by implementing green standards on packaging and shipping methods as well as products.