If one trend stands out at the NYIGF® it would be the ‘Hybrid Sustainability’ model of combining two or more sustainable or green technology applications into one product. Tibet Collection’s exclusive Do-It-Yourself Sustainable Lokta Paper Making Kit, included in the Jan 2009 Sustainable display, is a fun way to explore green thinking. The kit has step-by-step instructions for constructing a note card-size paper-making screen, and teaches traditional paper making techniques with sustainably harvested Lokta fibers. The student can add ingredients such as flower petals for a unique take on a traditional craft. This item is produced by a women-run artisan business. The Sustainable exhibit, packed with exciting product, is chosen from three categories of juried products submitted by exhibitors:
‘Green’ Products:
• Products that are manufactured or constructed with only recycled, recyclable and/or sustainable materials.
Environmentally-friendly Production Processes:
• Manufacturers who are using alternative sources of energy in production, including wind, sun, and alternative fuels.
Socially-responsible business practices:
• Products produced by indigenous peoples, creating viable, sustainable trades and markets in poverty-stricken and needy communities worldwide
• Manufacturers who donate percentages of their sales to not-for-profit organizations.
The Do-It-Yourself Sustainable Lokta Paper Making Kit is a great example of this growing ‘Hybrid Sustainabilty’ trend. The kit features ‘Green’ sustainable Lokta paper, with a Do-It-Yourself re-purposed wood frame that is made by a fair trade women-run business. As a founding member of Fair Trade Federation, Tibet Collection is a socially-responsible business. Interest and sales in Tibet Collection’s Sustainable Display line continue to grow as more retailers opt for ‘Green’ and Socially-responsible display alternatives.
Buyers are excited about the Sustainable Lokta Jewelry Spinners as well as the Necklace, Earring and Bracelet stands. The line also features a 12 piece Display Cube/Tray set and Sustainable display for Notecards and Fair Trade Holiday. The Sustainable Lokta line is also recyclable. When the products finally wear out, they can go into the cardboard bin, thus reducing landfill.
Jacque Wong,
Design/Marketing Director
September 2009
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