Ever wonder what happens to all that garbage you leave out
in the dumpster each week? Well, unfortunately, most of our waste goes into a
dump or landfill. In turn, our towns are being filled with trash… not to
mention the negative effect on the environment. In The Designer’s Atlas of Sustainability, Thorpe explains just how
our products can affect our environment. According to Thorpe, “ human designs
are overwhelming natures design”. This is causing plant and animal life to
decline. McDonough and Braungart also address this subject in Cradle to Cradle.
In their book, the authors discuss how “waste equals food”.
Because of the growing awareness of sustainability, there
are several new companies that are contributing to making a positive difference
for our environment. One company is called Green Toys. Green Toys was founded
by Robert von Goeben and Laurie Hyman. Green Toys has created a line of toys
that are constructed from recycled and environmentally friendly materials. They consciously choose materials for their
toy line that will improve the health and well being of the planet. By choosing
recycled products they are helping to reduce fossil fuels and greenhouse gas emissions.
All Green Toys products are also created in the United States, therefore
creating jobs and improving our economy.
Another company who is dedicated to creating a better earth
is Mr. Ellie Pooh. Mr. Ellie Pooh is a paper company that creates exotic gifts
and paper goods from elephant dung. Now I know what you’re probably thinking…
GROSS! Right? Honestly, I thought the same thing! However, after learning about
the company background, I found myself being more accepting to the idea.
I
first learned about Mr. Ellie Pooh while working for a natural foods company. I
worked in the corporate office as a Junior Buyer, focusing on house wares and
gift items. I received samples of their products and I was quite impressed.
Aside from reducing the amount of trees that are being killed in the making of
paper, the company is also dedicated to improving the lives of elephants in Sri
Lanka. According to the experts at Mr. Ellie Pooh LLC, “if the United States
cut office paper use by just 10% it would prevent the emission of 1.6 million
tons of greenhouse gases- the equivalent of taking 280,000 cars off the road”! That’s
a big impact!
These are just two examples of great companies that are
helping to make a difference in our struggling world. Both companies are
creating new products out of waste. My hope for the future is that more
companies would take this initiative to make an even bigger difference.
To learn more about these 2 great companies, visit the links below:
Hey Shelby!
ReplyDeleteI really liked your article didn't know that Ellie Pooh or Green Toys existed it is awesome to see that other companies are embodying the Cradle to Cradle mindset. I was wondering how the AAFTA or GOTS are involved in either one of these companies mentioned or if the C2C has certified either business? Do you think more businesses should become more open to using biodegradable products?
Natalie
Shelby!
ReplyDeleteI liked your post this week! Your research was very interesting in regards to Green Toys and Mr. Ellie Pooh creating wonderful products out of waste. People need to get the message out that it is possible to create things out of just about anything! What was your favorite thing you learned from the readings this week? Keep up the good work!
Shelby,
ReplyDeleteGreat job at incorporating the readings and video in this week's blog! That incredible to learn about Mr. Ellie Pooh and his creative approach to not only helping with reducing the number of trees that are destroyed to make paper, but also his help in the wildlife field as well! It's people like this, who take an entirely new approach that will help our generation become more sustainable! From starting this class have you tried to find/buy products that are more green friendly?