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RIGHT AT HOME with Kate Springer
W
hile travel is still on hold, we’re spending an unprecedented amount of time at home these days. That’s why we’ll be dedicating this space to home and interiors - think indie homeware brands, cosy winter decor ideas, locally made ceramics, notable renovation projects, and lots of eco-friendly inspiration. Speaking of... To kick off the new year, I’ve made a personal resolution to go greener at home. But I needed some advice - and who better than Dora Lam Shuk-man, the co-founder of sustainable lifestyle oasis Slowood? Dora and her husband Chen Kai-ping founded Slowood in Kennedy Town in 2018. Since then, the husband-and-wife duo has opened two more locations: Discovery Bay and Sha Tin. I turned to Dora to hear a few of her top tips for a cleaner, green new year:
1. BUY BIODEGRADABLE TABLEWARE If you are planning to upgrade your plates, cups and cutlery this year - think carefully about materials. These days, there are lots of biodegradable options (typically made from bamboo or corn) that not only look beautiful but are also better for the environment. If you eventually grow out of them, you can rest easy knowing that the earth can reabsorb these natural materials.
2. SHOP IN BULK Plastic packaging is one of the most significant contributors to landfill waste, but you can reduce your impact by shopping in bulk and carrying reusable containers. These days in Hong Kong, various stores sell bulk food and personal care products, which welcome you to refill your own jars and containers.
3. START A GARDEN Plants are an excellent way to make your home visually greener and improve your indoor air quality. Depending on how much direct light you have, you can choose shade-loving houseplants, like snake plants, or try your hand at a herb garden. For the advanced: Start a small compost bin for food scraps, then use the compost to add nutrients to your plants’ soil.
4. CHOOSE SUSTAINABLY PRODUCED FOODS Support sustainable farming by buying organic foods from local brands. These farmers are making tremendous efforts to sustain our ecosystem, and consuming food produced by organic farming helps maintain soil fertility and biodiversity. You’ll also support the local community and reduce your carbon footprint. 30
