Smart ‘green’ innovations

Every year, the eco-revolution seems to be gaining momentum – a well meaning and responsible trend that is growing fast in popularity all over the world and here in South Africa as well. Antonella Dési takes a look at the hottest international innovations currently making headlines.

Source sustainable materials easily

The fact that so many innovative new sustainable materials are launched every year, makes it difficult for designers, manufacturers and architects to keep up with all the new products and possibilities. Material Short Stories however, is a European company that offers a service-cum-publication aimed at designers, manufacturers and agencies, which suggests five new materials that could possibly be incorporated in a new product design.

The total cost is EUR600, and the process begins with the company or designer emailing Material Short Stories a visual or concept of a suggested product. Material Short Stories then sets up a proposal of five innovative and sustainable materials that would best fit the product profile and enhance it, taking into account branding and durability. Its references, proposals and sketches outlining its suggestions are summarised in a neat little booklet that is sent back to the designer or company, along with a 1-gigabyte USB card that includes a digital summary for use in presentations. (www.material-short-stories.com)

Eco-habitats for pets

California-based InPlay Products offers a line of sustainably made habitats for cats that can be decorated by kids. Called Caboodle Habitats for Cats, and priced at US$29,90, these cat houses comprise expandable three-level structures in which cats can play, lounge and hide in. They are made from thick, double-wall corrugated cardboard that boasts up to 40% recycled content. Non-toxic soy-based inks are used for printing, and all by-products are recycled and entirely biodegradable. Capable of supporting up to 30kg, the habitats can be interconnected to create larger structures. They can also be decorated with koki pens, pencils, crayons and stickers. (www.caboodlecats.com)

Eco-iconic toilet-cum-basin

The W+W is a combined toilet and sink from Spanish brand, Roca, which combines style with green-minded thinking. It was launched late last year, and comprises a single L-shaped unit made up of an attached and internally integrated sink and toilet. It operates by the wastewater from the sink being collected in the toilet's cistern, and used for flushing – in this way the unit can save up to 25% of the water that would normally be used. An automatic cleaning system prevents bad odours and bacteria, while a specialised tap controls the water's temperature and flow for maximum energy savings. The unit is beautifully designed and costs EUR2 731. (www.roca.com.es/w+w/w+w/en/index.html)

The local scene

The Go Natural & Organic Products Exhibition 2010, took place in February at the Cape Town International Convention Centre with the aim being to inform and inspire businesses and individuals to make better choices by providing the widest range of natural and organic products, sustainable technologies, services, information and practical advice under one roof. The expo featured local innovations – for more information visit www.naturalandorganic.co.za - Antonella Dési

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Love the W+W basin .. but R30k for a basin&loo ? Get real! – Anonymous