This is a good-news edition – a round-up of brands, organisations and individuals going the extra mile to make a positive environmental impact through their brilliant (and often ground-breaking) work.
First up: a Wren – Write Off update!
Three months in, and we’ve rescued around 1,400 single-use plastic pens (including lots of whiteboard markers). Given the momentum (we are now collecting from 37 schools), we’re now opening up the pen collection UK-wide to brands, organisations and individuals. You can sign up here if you're interested.
We’re also busy working on new products made with this “precious plastic” if you would like to be involved in the design process I’d love to hear your thoughts here
And perhaps most heartening of all we’ve been invited into schools to chat with pupils about the project. The most common (and very fair) question we get from kids is:
“Why would anyone design a pen that gets thrown away?”
Its amazing to see how aware this generation is about environmental issues and are already questioning the status quo!
Here are some of my favourite makers, designers and studios turning waste into something wonderful.
Beautiful, colour-coordinated flat-lays made from collected seaside and household plastic.
Just stunning scientific illustration and wildlife art whilst supporting Shark Conservation
Splendid sculptures and art pieces made from ocean plastics.
Playful, purpose-driven design using repurposed materials with real charm.
Mushlume Lighting – gorgeous lighting made from mycelium. Yes, mushroom-grown lights!
Petit Pli – clever, growing clothes for kids made from recycled bottles.
Goodwell Toothbrush – modular, repairable toothbrushes that avoid the bin.
All Day Goods – slick, reusable kitchen tools made from recycled plastic waste.
Gomi – speakers and chargers made from non-recyclable flexible plastics.
Smile Plastics – makers of richly marbled, colourful surfaces from recycled plastic. (We can attest to its loveliness as we use their material in some of our shop displays!)
Feeling inspired to make a difference in your community?
Here are two great ways to get involved:
Repair Café – Join a global movement to bring communities together by fixing broken items, sharing skills, and reducing waste. It's a fantastic way to meet your neighbours and give your belongings a second life.
Million Mile Beach Clean (Surfers Against Sewage) – Be part of the UK’s largest beach clean initiative. Help protect marine life by keeping our coastlines free of plastic and pollution.
Small actions can lead to big change – get involved today!
