Small is Definitely Green

Green is sometimes about huge things – beyond platinum buildings, revolutionary technologies, multi-national conferences – and they get written up to great acclaim and win prestigious prizes.

Sometimes though it’s about a person with a commitment and an idea that will make a small difference. These entrepreneurs know they won’t singlehandedly save the planet but collectively they impact us in subtle ways. We run across them and the things they do or sell and inevitably have a feel good moment. Life is good, the world is safe and my grandchildren will grow old on a fairly decent planet. I’ve run across two such people recently. Both make eco-friendly accessories.

Balanced Design began when its founder and designer, Melinda Cox, was walking through the streets of Paris two weeks after 9/11. In her words, “At that time, in that city, people weren’t just environmentally aware, they lived a more environmentally sensitive existence than most of the people that I knew. Their cars were much smaller. They brought their own bags to carry home groceries from the market…I knew that I was ready to change.”

It seemed to Melinda that eco-friendly products were spartan or boring, as though they were being punished for being bad. Attracted to simple shapes & powerful colors, she set about designing eco-friendly appliqué and hand printed pillows using water-based inks that are manufactured in New England. The inserts are 50 percent recycled fiber.

Chakra Pennywhistle - don’t you love that name – was created by Rikkianne – no last name given – “to create simple green designs that reflect an appreciation for history and a sustainable future." Her style is raw, modern and each item handmade. They are simple designs, some made from vintage moneybags.
Rikkianne believes, “There is something to be said for businesses that do their part to create a sustainable future. No matter how small a part I may get to play in this future, I have the opportunity to use eco-friendly materials and choose to do so.”

Amen!