It’s no secret that our environment is taking a huge hit, with climate change and still misinformed people who know little to nothing about sustainability. If you want to do your part, you can start small and invest in sustainable materials to help lessen the negative impacts of today’s lifestyle on the world. Check out these brands to help you get started on the zero-waste movement:
COMPILED BY JAMILLE DOMINGO
Remind PH
Photo courtesy of Remind PH
Founded by eco-minded best friends Meryl Ligunas and Andreana Aragon, Remind PH (or Reusable Items for More Mindful Living) aims to contribute to the growing movement of sustainability, and to promote a zero-waste, plastic-free movement. Their flagship product is the bamboo straw (made with organically grown bamboo, created without inks and dyes, and is biodegradable). They chose bamboo as their main source of materials because it is the fastest growing plant in the world, making it a renewable resource. Aside from their straws, Remind PH now also sells bamboo reusable chopsticks. All the products come with a canvas pouch sewn by a Persons With Disabilities (PWD) community.
Remind PH’s products are available at Beauty MNL. For more information, follow them on Instagram @remindph, email <[email protected]>, or visit <beautymnl.com>
Ecoheroes
Photo courtesy of Ecoheroes
Ecoheroes is not just a business, it’s a revolution. It was put up not just to encourage everyone to buy their products for the sake of buying, but also to educate and teach them to partake in the battle against plastic. Its founder, Celine Murillo, is also an adventurer by heart, and she believes that travelers have a big role in promoting zero-waste and sustainability. “Travelers are witnesses to the beauty of our natural heritage. When the environment deteriorates, it means that they will lose their source of joy. By investing in sustainable products, they can do their part to help fight the plastic battle,” she says.
Even their operation, she says, observes a zero-waste practice. Their items are delivered package-free, they use scrap fabrics for pouches, and their shipping method is plastic-free. They also have regular shipping schedules, and consolidate orders so that there will be less carbon emissions. But the best part about their business? A huge chunk of their proceeds go to Mountain Watch Philippines, an organization that goes around schools to promote sustainable tourism and a zero-waste lifestyle.
Ecoheroes sells metal straws, as well as collapsible silicone cups and food containers. For more information, like them on Facebook at Ecoheroes, follow them on Instagram @ecoheroesph, or email <[email protected]>
Klean Kanteen
Photo by Czarra Platon
This family-owned American company is one of the first to produce sustainable materials. They were the ones who introduced the first stainless steel, BPA (Bisphenol-A, a chemical used to produce plastic products)-free reusable water bottles in 2004. The company has now grown into one the most famous sustainable brands in the world—offering variations of bottles, mugs, cups, tumblers, growlers, and canisters. The founders of Klean Kanteen have dedicated themselves to constant research, identifying where positive changes can be made and implemented and learning to how to source their materials better.
Klean Kanteen is available in select True Value stores, Base Kamp stores, Rustan’s branches, SM Department Stores, Robinsons’ supermarkets, Bratpack stores, and Certified Calm stores in Metro Manila. For more information , visit <kleankanteen.com>
Human Nature
Photo courtesy of Human Nature
Human Nature is arguably one of most famous local brands in the country, and it’s mainly because of their constant efforts to practice sustainability, while offering only the highest quality of toxic-free skincare and beauty products. Their materials are naturally derived, biodegradable, and not harmful to the ecosystem when released into the waterways and the environment (such as when you rinse or wash them off in the shower).
For more information about Human Nature, visit <humanheartnature.com>
Paralúman
Photo courtesy of Paralúman PH
This store offers anything you can think of that’s sustainable—stainless straws, shampoo and feminine wash bars, bamboo toothbrushes, dry shampoo, tooth powder, plant-able pencils, cotton bags, and many more. Their items—which they can also personalize via laser engraving—are locally sourced and handmade as well, and half of their proceeds go directly to these makers. Paralúman also offers plastic-free deliveries, and prides themselves in having their packaging made from sustainable materials—they use recycled cardboard, newspaper, and even paper tape.
Paralúman’s products are available at Jess & Pat’s in Maginhawa Street, Quezon City. Narrative Coffee in Saldedo Village, Makati City, and Artikulo Coffee at Malacañang Complex, Manila. For more information, like them on Facebook at Paralúman, follow them on Instagram at @paralumanph, or visit <paraluman.ph>
