Spring 2014
Eco-Choice Awards for Spring 2014 By Poornima Apte

Most Sellable

Winner: Coffee bag computer case from aMano Fair Trade

San Diego, CA
www.amanofairtrade.com

The jute-style computer case is made from an upcycled burlap coffee bag. The fair-trade company works with artisans who have green operating practices. “We quickly realized the extent to which they not only conserve materials, but find a use and purpose for all types of ‘scrap’ material,” says Giovanna Mantilla, the company’s owner.

Mantilla was delighted to win the Eco Choice award, which she believes will bring “recognition and validation to what we believe should be a core principle of business today. By winning this award, our community partners and potential partners will view us as not only a fashion-forward company, but one that is doing it ‘the right way.’”

“Being environmentally responsible used to be the “progressive” thing to do, but in today’s world, it’s essential,” she adds.

Notables

Fish+Bones Soap from Cognitive Surplus (Jersey City, NJ)
www.cognitive-surplus.com

The soap is made with organic and pesticide-free ingredients and scented using aromatic plants grown locally. Packaging is done using recycled materials taking care to be as green as possible throughout every step of the process. “Sustainability is one of the cornerstones of our company and everything we do both professionally and personally,” says Kristen Zephyrus, founder. “We make green choices even when it means more work or earning less on our end because we think it’s important to be part of the solution instead of part of the problem.”

Horizon Birchwood Coasters from LUprints (Pemberton, BC, Canada)
www.luprints.com

Made from FSC-certified birch wood, the horizon coasters are made from wood that is harvested from sustainably managed forests. They are durable and heat resistant, and also look stylish while protecting a table from heat or moisture. “We have always produced and chosen green products in our business, as it is what we built the business on in the start,” says Ulla Clark, principal designer. “It is not just a selling feature for us, but also our way of life outside the business,” Clark says.