Eco-Vlog

When it comes to designing a new product, sometimes it’s not about creating something entirely new but about finding ways to make an existing product more sustainable. In the case of Nuclée lamps , the “light bulb idea” evolved from traditional methods of using banana fiber. After having the chance to meet and learn from the Kavalan Indigenous tribe, designer Dorian Etienne, in collaboration with designer Cordélia Faure, decided to rely on the ancestral techniques to create banana light coverings. The French designers came up with the concept and produced it during a six-month residency at the National Taiwan Craft Research Institute (N.T.C.R.I.) in Taiwan. The final process honors the way the tribe members, located near Hualien on the east coast of Taiwan, have relied on the fiber to make their traditional clothing, bags and containers for generations. Related: Bananatex launches a sustainable material revolution at Milan Design Week Typically, banana flesh creates large amounts...

Recently unveiled by SeaCleaners, the Manta hybrid catamaran is designed to combat the oceans’ plastic pollution in a brand new way. Using a biomimetic design, a hybrid propulsion system and a power supply from renewable energy sources, the high-tech boat will not only collect ocean waste but process it as well. Poised for launch in 2024, the Manta will operate autonomously 75% of the time without the use of fossil fuels , and it will have the ability to extract between 5,000 and 10,000 tons of floating plastic each year. Its design allows the Manta to extract microplastics from 10 mm upward and up to 1 meter deep. Depending on the density and closeness of the layers of waste, the catamaran can collect between 1 to 3 tons of waste each hour. Even more impressive, its hybrid abilities means that this catamaran can operate for up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Related: The Ocean Cleanup reveals the Interceptor to remove plastic pollution from rivers Each boat is equipped wi...

Atomic City is Oakland , California’s first net-zero condominium complex, and it’s going to shape the future of building in the Bay Area. The complex’s design allows a tight-knit community of people to take care of each other and the environment, too. This complex was designed by the Manou Design Group, headed by Eric Manou. Manou didn’t want to stop at building a home; he wanted to build a community. And he created it using net-zero housing. Related: Young couple build their own tiny home to avoid sky-high housing prices in the Bay Area The project is called Atomic City, a name inspired by the Atomic Era. The homes were built with exacting attention to detail, with designs that create a seamless flow between the indoors and outdoors . Of course, the complex also features a distinct ’50s-’60s futuristic look that harkens back to the Atomic Era. As net-zero buildings, these homes produce as much energy as they consume. This is achieved by using solar panels, LED WiFi-enabled li...

Luxury rainforest eco-lodge, off-grid sustainability and a chocolate farm … where do we sign up?! The La Loma Jungle Lodge and Farm offers a unique rainforest vacation experience in Bocas del Toro, Panama . Located inside the Isla Bastimentos jungle and only accessible by boat, the 55-acre property is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime accommodation. The La Loma Jungle Lodge property is known for its private hiking trails, natural rock pools, private artisanal bungalows and unique Central American wildlife; however, eco-conscious travelers will undoubtedly be mostly interested in its on-site permaculture farm. Apart from chocolate, the farm produces a varied list of fresh fruits and vegetables to accommodate the property’s gourmet farm-to-table restaurant. Related: This private island resort in Panama promises sustainable luxury Rates start between $299 and $499 for parties of two depending on the season, but the price includes a private, open-air cabin , three daily meals, farm to...

A growing coating of “sea snot” is threatening Turkey’s coral and fisheries and preventing locals and tourists from swimming in the Sea of Marmara. The gelatinous substance is really a floating blanket of out-of-control phytoplankton, stimulated by global warming. The tiny sea plants proliferate when nitrogen and phosphorus levels are high. The Sea of Marmara has plenty of these nutrients, thanks to receiving wastewater from 20 million people. In normal amounts, phytoplankton is beneficial, breathing oxygen into the sea. But when too many grow in one place, they can become stressed and expel sea snot. Related: Drought leaves Istanbul with just 45 days’ worth of water The substance itself isn’t usually harmful, being mainly a combination of fat, carbohydrates and protein . But when it forms a blanket, it can suffocate marine life, and its stickiness attracts bacteria and viruses. Plus, it’s disgusting. “I have been traveling here for 15 years and there used to be snot at some time...

Some leading food brands are challenging an environmental bill being discussed by the U.K. Parliament. The much-delayed bill proposes that U.K.-based food companies must examine the supply chains of their products to confirm that they are not linked to stolen forested land overseas. Failure to do so would result in penalties. If the bill is passed, it will be the first time such a law has been introduced in the U.K. While some companies have welcomed the move, several companies have come out in protests against the proposal. For instance, Cargill, the U.S.-based commodity giant, has come out claiming that it would cost more to perform such due diligence without having any significant benefits. Related: Major supermarket chain is the first in the UK to remove palm oil from all its food “There is a risk due diligence will not sufficiently overcome [issues with traceability of goods] without harming supply chain resilience and efficiency, with associated cost impacts,” Cargill said in...

Anyone interested in sustainability knows that the clothing and textile industry is one of the largest contributors of pollution and waste. Spanish brand Sophie et Voila has set out to change that particular trend with a line of wedding dresses that are all custom-made from 100% recycled fabric. Designers Sofia Arribas and Saioa Goitia said, “Sustainability is not only a concept, but the legitimate philosophy upon which we have built Sophie et Voilà.” Related: Where to find eco-friendly engagement and wedding rings Brides can work with the designers to develop a full range of traditional or modern looks to celebrate their day and rest easy knowing their dress selection carries a low environmental footprint . Growing up in Basque Country, an autonomous community in Spain, both designers know something about slow living. Based on a culture of local food and a focus on connecting to nature, their home instilled in Arribas and Goitia the importance of incorporating eco-consciousness ...

Tiny homes offer versatility when you are ready to simplify, need a guest house or are ready to hit the road. Now, a company called Tiny Topanga is making cozy tiny houses that feel like home thanks to handmade touches, natural materials and a chance to support a small family business. Tiny Topanga offers dual locations in central Mexico and California. The company was founded by Israel and Rebecca, a couple who met in Mexico when Rebecca was volunteering with the Peace Corp. With both willing to take chances, they initially designed a tiny home for themselves as a way to travel between California and Mexico. This quickly resulted in a decision to launch into full-time tiny home builds and van conversions. Eventually, Israel’s dad and brother joined the team, too. Tiny Topanga is the first tiny home builder to construct tiny houses in Mexico and transport them to the United States. This allows the family to work together and enjoy both locations. Related: Rent a minimalist tiny hom...