Did you know that there are over 4.5 trillion individual CBs on our planet? Another fact: over 750,000 metric tonnes of CBs find their way into our environment every year, ending up in waterways and causing soil pollution.

With such disturbing figures, one would think that there’d be more of a spotlight shone on the environmental impact of CBs. But probably because of their size, people don’t even regard CBs as waste and often dispose of them carelessly – simply flicking them onto the pavement when they’re finished smoking.

There’s also a common misconception that CBs are made of paper and cotton. While there is some paper, cigarette filters are made of man-made cellulose acetate that takes at least ten years to fully degrade. Moreover, the chemicals released by CBs (including arsenic, lead and nicotine) are enough to actually classify CBs as hazardous waste.

Tackling CBs One Butt At A Time

Fortunately, someone is taking action to reverse this trend. Enter Code Effort, an India-based start-up that collects CBs and uses them as raw materials to create sustainable products like cushions, mattresses, accessories and even mosquito repellent.

Their story follows the tried-and-tested origin of a start-up: brothers Naman and Vipul Gupta saw a problem and put their efforts into solving that problem to make a better world. In their case, it was the unhealthy number of CBs in the city of Noida, Uttar Pradesh in India. They hunkered down and thus Code Effort – which stands for ‘Conserve Our Depleting Environment’ – was born in 2015.

Naman shares, “A common saying is that smoking is bad for our health, but I believe that this saying is incomplete. In the process of building a cigarette waste management and recycling industry, I can confidently say that smoking is not only bad for our health, but also lethal to the planet!”

The idea behind Code Effort is simple – collect CBs from around the city, drop them off at their factory and transform that waste into usable products. Initially, Code Effort placed special bins around the city to collect CBs. But to build the volume necessary for their recycling operations, they soon scaled up collection by partnering with various government units and institutions, incentivising people by exchanging CBs for cash.

But is Code Effort putting those who collect the CBs in harm’s way? It’s important to note that the company has taken several steps to educate CB collectors about the harmful effects of cigarette toxins. In addition to implementing practical hygiene and safety protocols, Naman insists that those dealing with the waste use N95 masks and gloves. This extends to their own factory, which is ISO 45001:2018-compliant and regularly audited.

Turning Waste To Gold

What happens next is the critical part of this programme – transforming these toxic materials into a safe and sustainable product. Naman shares, “Our closed-loop recycling process ensures 100 percent utilisation of the materials, has a net-zero carbon footprint and fosters a circular economy.”

Collected CBs are first separated into tobacco, paper and polymer. The tobacco undergoes a month-long process to break it down to powder, turning it into organic compost used in plantations.

The paper is ground to pulp, with binders, colours and fragrances added to turn the paper into mosquito repellent. Code Effort is also in the process of producing stationery and packaging material from this recycled paper. Naman says that they are even able to customise the thickness of the paper according to their customers’ needs – and that these papers are sustainable and sturdy enough to be recycled up to eight times!

As for the polymer, Code Effort treats the material with biodegradable and organic chemicals to remove its toxicity before using its recycled fibres to stuff cushions, pillows, mattress and even toys. To date, these cushions have been the bestsellers among Code Efforts end products!

Not A Social Enterprise

Since its launch, Code Effort has recycled over 1.2 billion CBs across India, thereby preventing toxins from seeping into 30 billion litres of water and offsetting 48 billion grams of carbon dioxide. It has been able to scale up its operations from Noida to now include the entirety of India, as well as partnerships in Nepal, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Naman is also open to more partnerships beyond South Asia, either through the import-export of CBs or a technology licensing agreement. After all, CBs are a problem for the whole planet.

In addition to uplifting the environment, Code Effort has also uplifted the lives of countless people in its network including over 2,000 rag-pickers who collect the CBs and hundreds of local artisans who use the recycled materials to make the final products.

In this way, Code Effort has been able to go beyond its tech start-up roots to become a sustainable business, something Naman wants to underline: “Code Effort is a sustainable, rather than social enterprise!”

Find out more about Code Effort

See also: What Happens To All That Plastic We Try So Hard To Recycle

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Chances are that most, if not all, the spices lined up in your kitchen racks right now have not been packaged and transported sustainably, are not produced ethically and have been grown using pesticides… And let’s not even get started on quality!

For a long time, consumers haven’t really paid attention to how sustainable spices are. After all, despite being an important ingredient, spice ranks low in the produce hierarchy – there are bigger things to worry about. But things are changing; with consumers starting to take more notice and focusing on all aspects of the food industry, spices are increasingly getting roped into conversations regarding sustainability.

Similarly, the values of buyers are also changing. In a recent survey, a significant majority of respondents said they were ready to pay up to 35 percent more for a product that is environmentally sustainable.

See also: 10 Useful Food Sustainability Terms

What are sustainable spices?

While there is no strict definition on how a spice becomes labelled as sustainable, to put it simply, we can say that it’s sustainable if it is of high quality, ethically produced and strives to achieve a net-zero carbon footprint.

First, let’s look at production. High-quality, sustainable spices are usually single-origin, meaning they come from a single place – a single farm or region – as opposed to the blends prevalent in most supermarket brands. Keeping things single-origin preserves the spice’s flavour and gives consumers a fresher, more intense experience.

Another term you will see is ‘organic spices’, which means exactly what you think – spices that were grown without the use of chemicals, preservatives or pesticides. Aside from the growing process, how spices are bought from farmers is also important. The hallmark of sustainable spices is direct trade with farmers. Conventional spices are bought through indirect trade and as such, a company goes through a chain of distributors, exporters, importers and other parties to secure their order.

Direct trade results in a more equitable relationship with the actual spice producers themselves, giving them a larger slice of the revenue instead of losing money through a plethora of middlemen. Sounds familiar? Indeed, it does – fair trade for the win!

And finally, a low carbon footprint. Another benefit of dealing directly with farmers is that the supply chain is significantly shortened, thus saving on transport costs and emissions.

Sustainable spices are also packaged differently than their conventional cousins. For instance, they’ll use recyclable materials for their packaging or encourage you to bring your own containers – as with Hong Kong bulk stores like Live Zero and Slowood, or even century-old chefs’ favourite Yuan Heng Spice Company – to maintain carbon neutrality.

See also: 8Shades Of… Tamsin Thornburrow Of Live Zero

Where to buy sustainable spices in Hong Kong?

If you’re new to the world of sustainable spices, the first step would be to visit one of the many farmers’ markets Hong Kong has to offer. The easiest to visit would probably be the farmers’ market at the Star Ferry Central Pier, which currently runs on Wednesdays and Sundays, but there are also farmers’ markets in Tai Po, Mei Foo and Fanling.

Aside from the bulk buy retailers mentioned earlier, another option is to hit up SpiceBox Organics in the Mid-Levels, Kennedy Town and Tseung Kwan O for a variety of organic spices; they even have their own in-store vegetarian cafés for a quick bite or drink during your shop!

There’s also Regency Spices, a Hong Kong-based online store that specialises in sustainable spices. You can opt for your order to be packaged in recyclable paper to make it even more eco-friendly.

But the best way to access sustainable spices? Grow them! There’s no better alternative to fresh seasoning than by plucking something delicious straight out of your spice and herb box. Try looking around Prince Edward Flower Market to see what you can grow in your kitchen, window box, balcony or garden – and enjoy!

See also: 8Shades Of… Michelle Hong Of Rooftop Republic

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We chat to Bailey about what sparked her sustainability journey, get the lowdown on her newest business venture EcoGo and find out what advice she’d give to others who want to make a difference.

See also: Neighbourhood Guide – Eco Retail Shops in Central

1. In one sentence, tell us what you do?

I’m a high-school senior, book lover and youth changemaker. I’m also the founder of a social enterprise called ReBooked, a platform that promotes the reuse of pre-loved children’s books. I guess you can say that I’m surrounded by books most of the day, whether for work or for play!

2. Why are you an 8Shader?

I started becoming more sustainability-conscious around four years ago when I was confronted with a personal – although admittedly first-world! – dilemma of what to do with books that I’d outgrown. I didn’t want to contribute to Hong Kong’s monumental waste problem by throwing them away or even recycling them; instead, I was eager to pass them onto other young readers who would enjoy them as much as I did. I launched ReBooked to make ‘disposing’ of books in a green way more convenient, sharing my love of reading and making second-hand books more accessible.

Starting ReBooked was the first time I became truly aware of the impact of my lifestyle choices. Since launching, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in local eco-friendly fairs and meet the teams behind many local sustainable businesses. With this came an increased consciousness of looking for eco-friendly options. Since then, I’ve become more purposeful about looking for eco-friendly options and supporting sustainability-focused brands.

That being said, actively making the shift to greener brands and products was not necessarily easy! I knew I wanted to live a greener lifestyle, but I didn’t know where to start… and found that my friends felt the same way! This inspired me to begin my next business venture, EcoGo – an app and website that serves as a directory for sustainable stores in Hong Kong. I’m working with a team of other young people based all over Asia to test, develop and launch EcoGo. We all hope that through EcoGo, living a sustainable life will be more attractive, accessible and convenient!

I think sustainable consumption is important because when we buy goods, we vote with our dollar. Although a small change in your shopping habits may not make a huge difference to you, these acts add up. Supporting eco-friendly brands helps them thrive and shows that their green practices and beliefs are valued.

3. What’s your best eco habit – and your guilty not-so green one?

I always bring a refillable water bottle and a reusable tote bag with me. My not-so-green guilty indulgence is taking taxis around the city when I’m running late or in a rush… which is often! I could definitely utilise Hong Kong’s MTR, tram and bus networks more often.

4. Fave eco store?

One of my favourite pastimes wherever I am is thrift shopping for clothes. Here in Hong Kong, I always check the clothes selection at Mee & Gee. I’ve found some amazing treasures there!

5. Fave veggie dishes in Hong Kong?

My favourite vegan dish might just be the Zeus Gyros at Big Dill – a ‘lamb’ wrap filled with veggies, fries and sauces. Another restaurant I love is Veggie4Love, a 50s-themed restaurant in Central that serves vegetarian dishes from around the world.

Also, a quick shoutout to my friend Chandni Sacheti, the founder of Lives Without Knives. She’s the one who introduced me to all my favorite vegan restaurants!

6. What have been your biggest challenges and proudest achievements since starting ReBooked?

Launching ReBooked at the start of Covid meant we had to adjust our business processes as the pandemic situation evolved. While there were some challenges for new businesses like ours, Covid also presented meaningful opportunities to serve our customers by providing reasonably priced book options for families, alongside an online bookstore where parents could shop in the safety of their home.

Last year, we opened our own retail store in Central to complement our online shop; I’m really pleased that ReBooked is now Hong Kong’s biggest platform for second-hand books. I’m also excited that ReBooked has branched out to expand in Brazil and Turkey, and our literacy outreach programmes are in the Philippines too. I’m looking forward to seeing ReBooked’s social impact and presence grow in the years to come.

7. What advice would you give to other young people wanting to make a difference?

Just do it! There’s no such thing as a perfect time, perfect plan or perfect team to start making a difference. A lot of the journey is having passion, being open to trial-and-error and learning along the way.

Another big tip – and something I wish I did more when I started ReBooked – is to ask for help. With help from teammates, mentors, family and friends, you’ll have a much greater impact than you would have just by yourself. Whether you need expert advice from a specialist in the field or just someone to chat and take a break with, support from others is essential not only for the success of your project, but also for your own sense of wellbeing.

8. What shade of green are you?

Being a newbie in this area, I would be a pale mint green. My goal is to progressively work towards being a bright, cheerful lime green or maybe even a deep, sophisticated royal green in the next few years!

Find out more about ReBooked on their website and Instagram

NEXT: See all ‘8Shades Of‘ interviews

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Whether you’re looking to help at a one-off event or trying to incorporate regular volunteering work into your everyday life, here are six green opportunities around Hong Kong that might interest you:

WWF

Focusing on biodiversity, the oceans, wetlands, wildlife and community education, the World Wildlife Fund Hong Kong (WWF) aims to make Hong Kong the region’s most sustainable city.

WWF volunteering applications are always open, with the organisation mainly looking for part-time volunteers to help run their educational tours at Mai Po Nature Reserve. Applicants with a science background are preferred and successful volunteers will need to take a few training sessions before becoming qualified to lead tours.

Sign up to volunteer for WWF here

The Green Earth

The Green Earth was founded in 2016 with the aim of spreading eco-awareness as a core value for all. This charitable organisation is responsible for looking after many of the recycling points that you may have noticed sprouting up throughout Hong Kong in recent years.

The Green Earth runs education seminars, second-hand clothing drives, tree planting and various other eco activities to inform and educate public – and it’s exactly these kinds of events they need volunteers like you to help with!

Sign up to volunteer for The Green Earth here

SPCA Hong Kong

If you’re more of an animal person, how about volunteering for the SPCA Hong Kong? This charitable organisation has been rescuing and taking care of abandoned, sick and injured animals as well as re-homing and de-sexing animals and enforcing animal welfare laws ever since it was founded in Hong Kong, back in 1903.

SPCA are always looking for volunteers for kennel upkeep, animal care and foster parenting sick or injured animals. They also welcome people with other special skills like photography, writing or art to volunteer their talents.

Sign up to volunteer for SPCA here

Hong Kong Cleanup

If you’re sick of seeing beaches filled with rubbish, why not join one of Hong Kong Cleanup’s events? Hong Kong Cleanup was established in 2000 as the city’s first communal cleanup and has evolved into the region’s largest environmental volunteer event – having removed over 10 million kilograms of rubbish from Hong Kong’s shorelines along the way!

You can volunteer to join one of Hong Kong Cleanup’s regular free #TeamSeas Community Cleanup events, part of the world’s largest cleanup initiative organised in partnership with international environmental group Ocean Conservancy. Cleanups are held on various weekends throughout the month – check the calendar for details on the next one.

Sign up to volunteer for Hong Kong Cleanup here

Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden

Kadoorie Farm & Botanic Garden (KFBG) is a longstanding Hong Kong institution that was originally founded by the Kadoorie family in 1956 to help farmers in the rural Tai Po area. It’s now a sanctuary for displaced animals and birds not native to Hong Kong, as well as a botanical garden and farm open to the public.

KFBG runs educational tours to raise awareness on ecological and sustainability issues. You can volunteer in various areas including Fauna Conservation to help care for rescued animals; Sustainable Living & Agriculture to work at KFBG’s weekly organic farmers’ market in Central; and Floral Conservation to help with planting, gardening, recording plants and other scientific research.

Sign up to volunteer for KFBG here

Green Power

Founded in 1988, Green Power is a charitable institution that promotes environmental education in Hong Kong. They manage several projects across the city, most notably the Sha Lo Tung Conservation Scheme that aims to preserve the area’s freshwater wetlands and restore its ecological biodiversity.

They also run an urban greening programme to plant more trees around the city, a Butterfly Surveyor scheme to record and protect Hong Kong’s butterfly population, and an annual Green Power Hike to raise funds while encouraging an appreciation of nature.

Sign up to volunteer for Green Power here

See also: 8 Endangered Marine Species In Asia – And How You Can Help

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Linen is known for being an eco-friendly fabric because it doesn’t require a lot of water to grow, does not require pesticides as it is naturally pest-repellent and creates minimal waste as every part of the flax plant from which linen is made is used for different purposes.

Linen is also very durable and gets softer over time, making it a great capsule wardrobe investment for years to come. With that in mind, here are my three of my top linen essential picks for your sustainable summer wardrobe:

See also: 3 Eco Items to Build Your Capsule Wardrobe

Son de Flor Pinafore Shirt 

I’ve already spoken about my love for crop tops in my summer capsule wardrobe article, but they really have become my no-brainer go-to for a street-style slash resort-look during weekends. I love Son de Flor’s square-neck linen crop top so much – its design makes it easy to pair with all my skirts, trousers, shorts and even jeans. Not to mention, it shows off all my hard work at the gym in a subtle, elegant way!

Son de Flor uses only natural Oeko-Tex-certified fabrics throughout their collection, with plastic-free packaging for delivery and a focus on ethical production. I wear this eye-catching fairy-tale piece with high-waisted pants for work or with relaxed trousers on my days off.

Available at Son de Flor

@White by Gosia Orlowska Sofia Pants 

I have officially replaced all my jeans with linen trousers as my summer staple! One of my favourite linen bottoms are these Sofia linen pants by Hong Kong-based designer Gosia Orlowska. They have become a great addition to my capsule wardrobe – the material is extremely soft and I like pairing them with a crop top and my favourite blazer for an easy, breezy summer outfit.

Gosia makes her collections from deadstock material in very limited quantities to minimise waste. She also allows customers to pre-order designs whenever she can.

Available at @White by Gosia Orlowska

BrunnaCo ARYA Safari Midi Dress

For a more feminine take on linen, my pick is BrunnaCo’s Arya safari linen midi dress. Wearing this lightweight dress on a hot summer day is oh-so-comfy!

BrunnaCo is a Californian environmentally and socially sustainable fashion brand founded by Bali-born Helga Ida Ayu. Each of their collections is handcrafted by select artisans, mostly women, working from the comfort of their own homes in Indonesia.

Available at BrunnaCo

Of course, investing in sustainable materials is just a tiny step in your conscious fashion journey! To further that journey, be mindful of where you spend, make sure what you buy causes no harm to the planet and its people, and invest in quality timeless pieces instead of purchasing single-use, fast fashion garments. That way, you can ensure any new clothes are long-term investments rather than just quick impulse buys.

See also: 3 Sustainable Skirts to Stay Cool In

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But this change didn’t come about overnight. In fact, Copenhagen used to be just like any other city – polluted and fully dependent on fossil fuels. But when the 1973 Oil Crisis happened, its leaders sought to change the city’s environmental policies.

What happened next was a total transformation, turning Copenhagen into a sustainable city that decreased its water and energy consumption without sacrificing economic growth. As a result, Copenhagen has become the holy grail for urban planners and policy makers – proof that a vibrant green economy is possible and sustainable.

For the latest in our ‘Green City Goals’ series, let’s take a look at eight initiatives Copenhagen has undertaken to become the world’s greenest city.

See also: 10 Most Eco-Friendly Cities in the World

BIKES > EVs

Another misconception to clear up: while the Netherlands is the country with the most cyclists per capita, the city with the greatest number of cyclists is Copenhagen! 62 percent of Copenhageners commute to work or school using the 675,000 bicycles in the city. By 2050, it is estimated that half of all journeys across Copenhagen will be made on a bike.

While Copenhagen does view electric vehicles as another viable solution for transportation, the government has chosen to focus on bicycles by prioritising funding of the city’s cycling infrastructure.

CHARGING UP

That doesn’t mean that they’ve totally forgotten about cars though! In fact, Copenhagen is heavily investing in electric and hydrogen-powered cars too, with the local government aiming for 85 percent of the city’s fleet to comprise of these green vehicles.

It’s not the government alone that’s enamoured with EVs; residents have been making the change as well, with sales of EVs doubling in 2020 alone. To further encourage ownership of EVs or hybrids, the city is aiming that by 2025, a charging point will be available no more than 250m away from any multistorey building, guaranteeing charging accessibility throughout Copenhagen.

DECARBONISATION THROUGH RENEWABLES

With its green credentials, it’s no surprise that Copenhagen is a leading proponent of renewable energy. With the city mainly powered by wind and solar energy, its goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2025 is firmly on track.

But the city also generates power from another renewable source – biomass. The city uses discarded wood, straw and refuse, along with human and animal waste to produce heat, electricity and biofuel.  As an example, Copenhagen’s CopenHill power plant turns waste to energy, generating up to 57MW of electricity and 190MW of heat for tens of thousands of homes and businesses.

OUTSIDE-THE-BOX THINKING

In addition to being one of the symbols of Copenhagen’s green initiatives, CopenHill is also notable for another thing – it’s an activity destination for adrenaline junkies, with a year-round artificial ski slope, hiking slope and climbing wall. This outside-the-box thinking proves that public infrastructure need not be only for a single purpose; a little daring and imagination can change the landscape and add to the city’s urban design.

And if those weren’t enough accolades for CopenHill, its cutting-edge filtration technology means that it produces more clean water than it uses!

CAPTURING HEAT AND COLD

Copenhagen has also invested in the efficient distribution of energy throughout its network – meaning that heat, which is otherwise dissipated when generating electricity, is captured and re-used through redistribution. Meanwhile, chilled water is partly cooled through the use of cold seawater, reducing demand on the electricity grid.

BIG DATA, GREEN DATA

But what truly sets Copenhagen apart is its use of data, thanks to the city’s extensive and sophisticated network of sensors that monitor energy and water consumption. This means more resources can be allocated towards generation when necessary and adjusted to minimise waste, reducing carbon emissions.

The use of water is another particular focus. Acoustic leak sensors, intelligent valves and pumps, smart water meters and software modelling have all been implemented to create an efficient water management system.

INNOVATING WASTE COLLECTION

As part of its mission to be a carbon neutral city, Copenhagen has taken a leading position in circular economics too. It has mounted an aggressive campaign for residents to separate their rubbish, as well as recycle and reuse products – which the city hopes will lead to a reduction of 59,000 tonnes of CO2 annually.

What’s even more interesting is the way Copenhagen manages waste; it is pilot-testing a robotics-based facility to sort plastic. The city also currently uses waste trucks that run on biogas, but these will soon be replaced with autonomous vehicles and small EVs – reducing noise and carbon emissions.

THE OVAL GARDENS OF COPENHAGEN

“Urban garden” has become a trendy phrase in this age of sustainability – and whether its vertical farming, rooftop gardens or hydroponic systems, every city seems to have some kind of urban garden in their green strategy. But Copenhagen has another type of garden in its arsenal – one that dates back to 1948.

In the suburban district of Naerum, you’ll find 40 plots of land designed by famed landscape artist Søren Carl Theodor Marius Sørensen. Known as one of the world’s most visually appealing allotment gardens, these ‘Oval Gardens’ are meant to not only add to the overall aesthetic of the district, but also to impress upon owners the importance of nature and greenery.

See also: All Green City Goals articles

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Also famous for the dam of the same name that encloses Plover Cove Reservoir, Tai Mei Tuk is an ideal destination for a scenic day trip in Hong Kong – so here’s our eco guide to help you explore!

See also: 8 Eco-Friendly Hiking Accessories

Where To Eat & Drink

Mr Cardigan Plant House

Open on Sundays only, Mr Cardigan Plant House is a cafe set in a refurbished shipping container that is now a heaven for succulents. It’s known for its photogenic plant-filled grounds and is located right next to its owner’s farmland. Their menu changes seasonally, with food and drinks made from fresh, mostly local ingredients.

Mr Cardigan Plant House, corner of Shan Liu Road and Ting Kok Road, Tai Mei Tuk, Tai Po, Hong Kong

Mayse Artisan Bakery

Mayse is an authentic Latvian bakery founded by father-daughter duo, Alex and Elina, which makes healthy, organic bread following traditional Latvian and Northern European recipes. The main attractions here are their signature sourdough and handcrafted breads, with some other delicious food items like truffle pizza and panini also available – and everything is vegan too.

Mayse Artisan Bakery, G/F, 64 Sam Wo Road, Tai Mei Tuk, Tai Po, Hong Kong

What To See

Tai Mei Tuk Dam

Tai Mei Tuk Dam is a 2km-long dam that closes off Plover Cove Reservoir and has become a popular spot for cyclists and kite fliers. You can easily walk up or take a cycling trip from Tai Wai or Tai Po.

It offers sweeping views of Tolo Harbour across to Ma On Shan, and also the Pat Sin Leng mountain range behind. Many people come to see the sunset, but cyclists should be mindful of when they need to return their bike rentals!

Lung Mei Beach

Lung Mei Beach is slightly controversial as it was built in a protected marine area. This government-regulated beach has full changing rooms and shower facilities, plus lifeguards on duty. As long as you wear reef-safe sunscreen and are mindful of what you step on when you swim, it’s a great beach to visit and is the only one in the area.

See also: 8Shades’ Guide to a Sustainable Beach Day

Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail

Plover Cove Reservoir is the largest reservoir in Hong Kong and can hold 230,000,000 cubic metres of water. The hills surrounding the reservoir are relatively less steep – you can hike around it in one day! The Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail starts at Wu Gau Tong and ends at the dam, covering 18km and taking around nine hours.

The trail is a great challenge that should only be attempted during cooler weather, making sure you carry enough provisions and a head torch. But if you’re up for that and more, you can also try the Devil’s Fist Trail, which is a 30km hike!

Pat Sin Leng Country Trail

Hiking the Pat Sin Leng is a good alternative to the Plover Cove Reservoir Country Trail. Its name comes from the eight Taoist deities known collectively known as Pat Sin, one for each of the mountain’s eight peaks. It’s an easier and shorter trail compared to Plover Cove Reservoir but does involve a steep ascent to the first peak.

This hike offers a higher vantage point to the region with a full view of the dam, the reservoir and towards mainland China. You can hike all the way to Hok Tau Reservoir if you choose but the fastest route is to return the way you came, which takes around four hours.

See also: 8Shades’ Eco Guide to Sai Kung

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As well as shopping for pre-owned designer fashion on their website, HULA has a Wong Chuk Hang warehouse and a Central boutique where you can browse hundreds of fabulous pieces in-person – meaning there’s no excuse not to get in on the pre-loved action!

We chat to Sarah about what inspired her to start HULA, whether there’s a stigma around second-hand clothing and her top tips on making our wardrobes more sustainable.

1. In one sentence, tell us what you do?

I’m the founder and CEO of HULA – a highly curated, authenticated consignment business selling the best luxury womenswear, bags, shoes and accessories. HULA helps customers monetise their wardrobe while offering consumers the best authentic, pre-owned, designer womenswear at up to 95 percent off retail price. In short, I turn people’s waste into other people’s treasures!

2. Why are you an 8Shader?

The rise of fast fashion and consumerism has made textiles waste one of the biggest polluters worldwide – which became a massive reason for starting HULA.

I used to work at Lane Crawford’s head office and realised how much waste there was in the fashion industry – not only on the retail side, where a product would have an 8-12 week shelf-life before going to the sales bin, but also among friends who would often ask where to get rid of items they no longer wanted. I knew there would be an opportunity for this type of business… plus loads of amazing products to unlock in my friends’ wardrobes!

Having previously founded my own lingerie and swimwear label, I also really appreciated the effort that goes into designing, producing and marketing a collection – so I wanted to make it HULA’s mission to extend the lifespan of well-crafted fashion pieces too.

3. What’s your best eco habit – and your guilty not-so green one?

Of course, its shopping mostly second-hand fashion! I’m also almost vegetarian throughout the work week. My guilty pleasure is that I love jumping on a plane to travel.

4. Fave eco brands?

For fashion, I love Gabriela Hearst and Cult Gaia. For lifestyle, I can’t live without Oatly oat milk for my go-to daily latte fix! I also love ECOS household products – they work really well and smell so good!

5. Fave veggie dishes in Hong Kong?

Treehouse’s veggie bibimbap, Dandy’s Organic Café’s veggie curry with brown rice and Maison Libanaise’s mixed rice, Lebanese salad and roasted cauliflower with tahini sauce.

6. Do you think there is still a stigma when it comes to buying second-hand?

Shopping second-hand is still not broadly accepted amongst local Chinese. Superstition has partly held this market back from developing over the past decades, because second-hand clothing was known to come from someone who had passed away or was sold due to lack of money – so buying pre-owned was deemed ‘unlucky’.

Luckily, times have shifted and the pre-owned market is now widely more accepted… So much so that the second-hand market is projected to double over the next five years, growing eleven times faster than the broader retail clothing sector; it’s also set to become twice the size of fast fashion by 2030!

We’ve seen a surge in shoppers shifting their mindset about buying pre-owned, from it being something they were ashamed of to something they’re now proud of. Pre-Covid, we did lots of events and discussions, tackling issues about fashion sustainability and really bringing the community together. The new generation are popularising pre-owned in a big way – and I’m glad we stuck through the hard times to see this market grow and finally break some barriers.

7. What are some simple tips for a more sustainable wardrobe?

If you’re looking for key capsule wardrobe pieces, make sure they will last! Buy better quality pieces from better brands so items are easier to resell should you tire of them afterwards. If you can’t afford high-end brands, shop from luxury consignment stores like HULA, where pieces are a fraction of the price. Shopping pre-owned opens up a world of styles and brands you might never have considered or could afford previously.

Look for fabrics that are easier to maintain or can be cleaned regularly such as silk, cotton, linen-mixes and bamboo rayon or viscose and make sure you don’t over-wash your pieces. To be more sustainable, some pieces can be worn at least 3-7 times before being washed – this will ensure your pieces don’t look old and over-washed too soon.

If you want a more unique look without wearing what everyone is wearing this season, shop vintage items that are unique and not so recognisable. These pieces will become your wardrobe treasures and will help define your look.

And of course, please buy pre-owned fashion! Extending the average lifespan of clothing by just three months of active use per item would lead to a 5-10 percent reduction in its carbon, water and waste footprints. Buying pre-owned really is the quickest way right now – aside from buying nothing – to help solve fashion sustainability.

8. What shade of green are you?

A vintage olive green – it’s such a classic colour and I love vintage style!

Find out more about HULA on their website and Instagram

NEXT: See all ‘8Shades Of‘ interviews

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The post 8Shades Of… Sarah Fung of HULA appeared first on 8Shades.

The best after-sun products are clean; they’re formulated without synthetic chemicals like parabens and oxybenzone that can harm your skin, and lightweight so they won’t clog pores, letting heat escape your body.

Choose products that are infused with natural and soothing ingredients like aloe vera, hydrating ones like hyaluronic acid and anti-oxidants such as green tea, tiger grass and sunflower oil. Formulations with a cooling effect are a big plus to help reduce inflammation, and those with ceramides are effective in locking in moisture.

Whether you’re looking for lightweight serums for everyday use, soothing creams and balms or refreshing gels, here are eight of the best clean and cruelty-free after-sun products.

See also: 6 Sustainable Sun Hats & Visors for Summer Protection

Boscia Cica Soothing Universal Cream

This lightweight, vegan gel-cream contains cica, or tiger grass, sourced from Korea, which offers antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory functions, helping soothe and repair the skin while reducing redness. The formulation also features lactobacillus ferment, a probiotic that helps rebalance your microbiome, protect against pollution-induced damage and help your skin rebuild its natural defences.

Other ingredients include ginger root extract, another anti-inflammatory that soothes irritations, and ceramides that help lock in moisture. It can be used on the face or body and is naturally scented with an aromatic blend of orange and lavender oils.

Available on Amazon

Coola Radical Recovery After Sun Lotion

This deeply hydrating vegan lotion contains a moisture-locking base of organic agave and aloe vera, enriched with antioxidants and nourishing oils from sunflower, sweet orange and mandarin peel, combined with anti-inflammatory lavender oil and calming cedarwood.

70 percent of this after-sun lotion’s ingredients are certified organic, it’s reef-friendly, can be used daily – and it smells great!

Available at Harvey Nichols

Badger After Sun Balm

This soothing body balm conditions and smoothens parched skin directly after sun exposure, or straight after a shower or bath.

It uses a combination of moisturising cocoa and shea butters, extra virgin olive oil and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory essential oils of lavender, tangerine, tea tree and wild marjoram, plus rosemary and ginger extracts. Meanwhile, eucalyptus and peppermint offer a cooling effect.

Available at iHerb

Dr. Barbara Sturm Aloe Vera Gel

This soothing and cooling gel is made from 90 percent aloe leaf juice extracted from hand-selected, organic aloe vera plants. It also contains purslane, a plant rated for its anti-aging and antioxidant properties. Purslane helps reduce visible signs of irritation and works together with panthenol (vitamin B5) to soothe the skin.

This gel can be used on the face and body and is recommended after sunbathing, waxing or epilation.

Available at Net-a-Porter

Babo Botanicals After Sun Soothing Hydrating Gel

This cooling and non-sticky organic formula is quickly absorbed by the skin and is gentle enough for children and adults alike.

Formulated with 75 percent aloe vera juice, it contains antioxidant and anti-bacterial green tea and arnica which help soothe and repair the skin; hyaluronic acid and rosehip oil to hydrate and lock in moisture; and anti-inflammatory witch hazel and eucalyptus, which provide a cooling and refreshing effect.

Available at Babo Botanicals

Mill Creek Botanicals Aloe Vera Soothing Gel

This moisture-rich, quick-absorbing vegan gel comprises mostly of organic aloe vera extract, combined with anti-oxidant cucumber to help keep the skin protected, while providing relief for skin irritations, sunburn, minor burns and even insect bites.

Other ingredients like comfrey and allantoin further assist the skin’s healing process. As well as being a great after-sun product, it can also be used as a cooling after-shave balm for men and women.

Available at iHerb

Pai Instant Kalmer Serum

Made for hyper-sensitive skin, this vegan fragrance-free serum works to reduce redness and calm the skin quickly with a ceramide-rich formulation that combines anti-inflammatory sea aster, calming oat extract, antioxidant magnolia berry extract and hyaluronic acid to soothe stressed skin while repairing damage.

Pai decided against adding common cooling ingredients like menthol and eucalyptus to ensure this serum can be used by people with ultra-sensitive skin conditions, such as eczema and rosacea.

Available at Lookfantastic

Nuori Sun Repair Serum

This deeply rehydrating vegan serum contains a potent mix of plant-based, bio-fermented sorbitol and chamomile flower that work to reduce inflammatory reactions; natural hyaluronic acid and sucrose complex for hydrating and locking in moisture; and vitamins C and E to neutralise free radicals. Liquorice root extract also inhibits melanin production, reducing signs of photo-ageing.

Available at Smallable

Read also: 8 Cruelty-Free, Vegan and Reef-Safe Sunscreens

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When shopping for a summer skirt, my advice is to look for those made from natural materials. Not only are they perfect for the humid weather, but they’re also generally more eco-friendly and durable than synthetic fabrics. 

Here are my three of my favourite sustainable skirt picks, made from different natural fabrics:

See also: 3 Eco Items To Build A Summer Capsule Wardrobe

Cass Livia Skirt 

CASS’ Livia skirt is made of hemp, a fast-growing, resistant and renewable natural material that is made to last a lifetime. It grows with little water, without pesticides and is extremely durable, breathable, comfortable and great for skin, thanks to its moisture-wicking abilities. Even with all those benefits, hemp still has one more trick up its sleeve – it’s also considered a carbon-negative raw material, as it absorbs more carbon than it produces.

This skirt design is timeless and I love its simplicity. I’m currently pairing it with a crop top and squared heels for a classy and elegant look, or with a t-shirt and sandals for a more relaxed vibe. 

Available at CASS

Mayamiko Doreen Mini Skirt

Mayamiko’s Doreen Skirt is made from pure rain-fed organic cotton grown in Uganda, and crafted at a fair trade workshop by talented artisans in Malawi. Organic cotton is made from natural seeds, with zero pesticides or other harmful chemicals used when growing the plant.

This skirt is so soft that I get slightly emotional at the end of the day when it’s time to take it off! It’s a great summer staple and I love pairing it with a cami during the weekend or a shirt on work days. I personally wish more brands would follow Mayamiko’s lead and promote fair trade practices, as I believe that the people who made my clothes should be paid fairly for their work.

Available at Mayamiko

See also: Sustainability Defined: 10 Useful Eco Fashion Terms

Linen Handmade Studio Valencia Slit Skirt

Linen Handmade Studio’s Valencia Skirt is made of linen, a strong but lightweight fabric made from the flax plant. It is naturally hypoallergenic and very breathable, making it a great material for warm weather. I love this skirt because the design is so fun, yet it’s smart enough to wear to work when paired with a shirt.

What’s great about this brand is that their designs are made-to-order; with 27 different colours to choose from, you can pick the best shade to fit your capsule wardrobe. Made-to-order business models help reduce waste and minimise surplus stock but are they the future of sustainable fashion? Keep in mind that small businesses like these need your support as they face scalability issues. 

Available at Linen Handmade Studio

This summer, let’s rethink the way we buy fashion. Read clothing labels carefully, take time to research materials and support small businesses whenever you can. Through these small yet conscious steps, we can make a difference in the future of our planet!

See also: 3 Sustainable Mini Handbags To Invest In For Summer

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The post 3 Sustainable Skirts to Stay Cool In appeared first on 8Shades.