3rd Annual Eco-Choice Awards
Most Sellable
Winner – I Design Distribution, KISIM
KISIM uses a group of ecological materials and turns it into stylish Jacroki bags that were featured on Sex and the City. The main component of Jacroki fabric is cellulose mixed with recycled paper waste and latex. According to Galit Reismann of I Design Distribution, the eco-friendly materials are imported from Italy to KISIM’s headquarters in Israel. Japanese fabric and the traditional leather craftsmanship of the Middle East inspired the design of the Jacroki bags. “Each season, KISIM searches for new materials,” says Reismann. The Jacroki material was discovered during a research visit to the Israeli Materials Library.
The bag’s name comes from Hebrew. “KIS in Hebrew means pocket. KISIM is pockets. That is the idea behind the brand name,” Reismann explains.
NOTABLES
Sushi set from Leakey Collection
This set is made of wood from fallen Acacia Tortilis trees. Rather than burning it, the Leakey Collection found a new use for this hardwood. The new use also provides income and opportunity. The trays are shaped by hand, sanded, and finished with food-safe oils. They are made by local Maasai artisans in rural Kenya employed under Fair Trade practices. In addition to fair wages paid to the artisan, this company also contributes 5% to communities in the form of health benefits, infrastructure and education.
Kaktus from Artecnica Inc.
This product was created by indigenous artisans. Its one piece aluminum casting is ready to recycle. When stacked, it occupies only 0.2 cubic feet, which minimizes shipping’s carbon footprint.
