Ecoutlet

Set up in February 2007, Paul, at Ecoutlet created his online store for people who were looking for ways to be more environmentally friendly.

By the end of his first year, he had won an award for Best New Media for his internet ‘viral’ video ads at the prestigious Green Awards.

We all know how confusing various symbols and codes can be on packaging and items, so Paul makes it easy for you to make an informed choice. All his products have an icon next to them to tell you what the benefits are and why they are environmentally friendly.

You’ll find an icon for UK manufactured, biodegradable and of course recycled or recyclable products, as well as other categories.

In addition, each item is given ‘eco points’ by Paul. Items score 1 to 5 based on their potential to reduce long term environmental impact so that you can really see where you are making a difference. For every 100 points that Paul’s customers collects (collectively, not as individuals) he makes a donation of £2.50 to a UK based environmental charity.

Paul stocks a great range of recycled products such as stationary, bags, clothing made from old fire hoses, glassware, gifts, a range of toys for children and my personal favourite a Recycled Bottle Opener!

Paul keeps recycling at the forefront of his mind when it comes to packaging. All envelopes and cardboard boxes he uses for sending out orders are made from at least 60% recycled materials. Any packaging sent to him from suppliers is reused.

Fill material is made from biodegradable cornstarch, old newspapers or the fill sent to him by suppliers when packing boxes.

Paul takes things one step further by supplying blank labels or stickers with every order. On the invoice there is a small note highlighting the blank labels and asking customers to re-use their box or envelope or failing that to recycle it.

Paul proudly tells me that he’s been using the same roll of bubble wrap since he started his business! He’s clearly got reducing and reusing down to a fine art.

If you want to find out what he is up to, Paul runs a YouTube page, a blog and an online calendar to keep you up to date with the latest Green events taking part throughout the UK.

Paul is offering THREE lucky winner the chance to put their feet up and enjoy a good read in our Pledge and WIN competition. ‘Rubbish” by Richard Girling, covers waste in the broadest possible terms, from planning and housing developments to supermarket packaging through to water supply, sewage and power supply and of course rubbish and recycling. It makes for a thought provoking and insightful read.