Sustainable Objects of Desire
S
ome naysayers believe that we can’t enjoy a high-quality lifestyle that’s sustainable. Nothing could be further from the truth. Maybe we just need to use a bit more brain-power to use less carbon! In my opinion, thinking about the environment and society forces us to develop new technologies, new materials and new processes that actually lead to better experiences. They call it the positive economy — and here are just a few of my positive economy purchases.
Ryan Laurin
@lightninglaurin
GIVE BACK IN BLACK
I’m loving the look and feel of the Black Algae T-shirt, from Vollebak. But it’s also the first piece of clothing I’ve ever worn that actually helps the environment. It’s the first entirely black, carbon-storing T-shirt made from renewable, sustainable algae ink. For every 500 made, 59kg of carbon dioxide is removed from the atmosphere, and in using algae as a replacement to a pigment called carbon black, 10.2kg of petroleum stays in the ground.
THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA(T)
It’s not often that you can help the planet simply by sitting comfortably at your office desk. But in the case of the Humanscale Liberty Ocean chair that’s exactly what I plan to do. Each Ocean chair contains 2lbs of reclaimed fishing nets — and it’s net positive, meaning it produced more fresh water and energy than was used to make it. I’m looking forward to using it for 15 years — or more — the minimum length of the warranty.
RIDING NAKED …
Those who know me will be aware that I am somewhat addicted to moving fast — through water and on the road. Aside from my Harley-Davidson, I also have road bike to try to even out my climate impact. What I really want in terms of two wheels is this experimental, handbuilt off-road adventure bike a collab between ENVE and Naked Bicycles. I figure it maybe costs more than is reasonable but it will literally last a lifetime and probably more. Where do you procure one of these titanium, gravel-eating beasts, you ask? Where else but on Quadra Island in BC.
