NEW YORK–A clock that runs on liquids rather than batteries, biodegradable pet waste bags and vases made from American Chestnut wood spindles are among the products that will be featured at SustainAbility: design for a better world, which will take place at the New York International Gift Fair this August.
Consisting of a special curated exhibit and three-part education program, SustainAbility will look at industry efforts that affect the earth and explore the countries that are supporting ecological efforts.
“NYIGF’s continued commitment to sustainable products and processes—through both display and education—mirrors the growth and importance of this issue to our industry and to society at large,” said Dorothy Belshaw, senior vice president and NYIGF director. “Our ever-expanding efforts will help to showcase the products and producers who are making a positive impact on our world through their business activities.”
For the exhibit, potential products had to meet certain criteria to be selected, including having been manufactured or constructed with only recycled, recyclable and/or sustainable materials, or use of alternative sources of energy, such as wind or sun. Some 85 companies have been accepted to date, and include a wide range of tabletop, glassware, jewelry, personal care, accessories and furnishings.
The seminars, which will be held on Monday, Aug. 18, will include “Doing Well & Doing Good—Sustainable Sourcing and Product Development,” from 8 to 9 a.m.; “Global SustainAbility Standards—Worldwide Efforts and the Impact on the U.S.,” from noon to 1:30 p.m.; and “Stop the Greenwash—How to Verify SustainAbility,” from 3 to 4:30 p.m. They each cost $20 in advance and $25 on-site. — Andrea Lillo