News

The current linear economy structure is manufacturing > transport > consuming > landfill/recycling or downcycling (where materials are recycled into lower quality material) and in this system companies aren’t required to take responsibility for the end of life of their products or the waste created in manufacturing. In contrast a circular economy is where there is no waste and everything is cycled back into the system in some way. When we reduce our own individual waste by avoiding packaging and buying local, we end up contributing to a more circular economy – that is, one in which products are manufactured,...

  The recently released Plastics B.A.N. (Better Alternatives Now) List is a series of reports that identify the world’s most polluting plastics in order to better protect our oceans. This report also examines the true life cycle of “plant-based” plastic products, finding that most do not actually break down and that the terms “compostable” and “biodegradable” may be the next generation of greenwashing. The Aardvark biodegradable, compostable paper straws that The Rubbish Whisperer sells were shown to be one of the most sustainable brands. If they make their way into the environment they disappear on land and in water within 6months. The Rubbish Whisperer has pulled...

“It is all about the five R’s – Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Repurpose, Recycle” (Rachel Glasier, Straws Suck)  #strawssuck is trending and not just in NZ, it is a global hashtag that smaller, local communities are embracing to motivate real shifts in people’s awareness and habits. If you haven’t seen this pop up on your Instagram feed then you better go search…. Straws Suck (The Mount) is just one of NZ’s communities tackling the issue of plastic straws as a huge contributor to marine pollution. The Mount Maunganui campaign, powered by Sustainability Options and Kickit is on a mission to build...

  The Sign of the Kiwi is an iconic Christchurch landmark. Designed by architect Samuel Hurst Seager and opened in 1917 as a teahouse, the building is now registered as a historic place. Following the 2011 earthquake the building has been through major strengthening and reopened on the 23rd January 2017. The delightful space offers indoor and outdoor seating with incredible views over the city to the Southern Alps and is popular with walkers, bikers, tourists and locals alike. For stunning views, exquisite coffee and delicious food - head up the hill! LOCATION: Port Hills, Christchurch MANAGER / OWNER: Eric...

Over the past month we have been promoting #PlasticFreeJuly – this campaign is to encourage everyone to start noticing the plastic around them, and from that, start making small changes in their behaviour to reduce their plastic consumption. Our main focus within the anti-plastic movement, is to reduce the impact on the environment and wildlife, namely in the ocean. The goal of our business is to not just reduce plastic in general but to reduce disposable behaviours. We offer transitional products that allow people to swap out everyday items for more sustainable alternatives. From our observations of conversations and discussions during...