Dr. Michael Braungart speaks about sustainable interior design at IIDEX

dayle_michael_braungart_200.jpg You might well wonder what a world-famous German chemist and professor has to say about the sustainability of interior design products and the state of our environment. Is this more doom and gloom, or is this a refreshing message of hope?

Thankfully, it is the latter. Dayle had the opportunity to listen to Dr. Michael Braungart speak to designers about ‘Cradle to Cradle’ at IIDEX, (International Interior Design Exposition) held in Toronto, Sept. 2008 where his message was, “We see a world of abundance, not limits.”

Co-author of “Cradle to Cradle”, and co-founder of MBDC (McDonough Braungart Design Chemistry), Dr. Braungart regaled us with uplifting stories and amid some dire warnings. Most encouraging is his premise that simply going after zero growth, zero emissions and stopping all consumption is the most efficient, but not the most efficacious answer.  He cited the example of bringing flowers to your sweetheart not being efficient, but certainly it is effective!

Dr. Braungart said...

we need to encourage companies to develop products that will cycle endlessly in a “cradle to cradle” manner rather than punish them and ourselves for our ‘bad’ ways.  We need a “culture of support rather than fear”.

Most biological products can be composted harmlessly back to the earth. Synthetic and metal natural products can provide “technical nutrients” that can be recaptured and reused in a closed loop that does not ‘downcycle’ or diminish their value. He spoke of  the concept of “leasing products” and returning them to the manufacturer at the end of their useful life so we do not simply reduce but actually leave a “beneficial footprint” as we eliminate the concept of waste. “Waste equals food.”

By supporting companies and their products as they transition towards the ideal, we are financing their research and development for products that are better for our health and better for the environment. The goal is to remove the toxins, mutagens, and carcinogens from the products as we find safer alternatives.

Dayle will be examining some of the best choices in products in upcoming issues of ‘Coolest Shade of Green’.  She invites you to pose questions in the section below.  To reach her for more information or to book your seminar, you may contact her at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

 

 

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Charmaine Lyons: ...
Hi Dayle,
It was a pleasure to meet you last week at IIDEX and to spend some time chatting and sharing design stories. You are certainly a very charismatic lady and I immediately felt a connection with you. I, too, have been aware of sustainability for many years. Living in Europe in the '80's allowed me first-hand experience at recycling and reusing within a community atmosphere. As I may have mentioned to you, I was able to apply these techniques to my next community life in Alberta where I initiated a recycling program into the entire school region and became known as "The Recycling Lady" to all the children. As an Interior Designer, consultant and educator, I believe it is my duty not only to produce beautiful things but rather to educate the consumer on product choice, availability and outcome. The beauty will transend from this. Presently, I am entranced with Braungart's "Cradle to Cradle". I found his keynote address at the show very motivating. The fact that his book is not made from paper but rather plastic resins and inorganic fillers adds to the intrigue.

I look forward to future discussions.

Charmaine Lyons
Char Designs

Hello Charmaine,
It was a great pleasure to meet you too. I believe there is quite a community of like-minded designers who can make a difference by using the techniques discussed by Dr. Braungart. I too was delighted and encouraged by his very forthright presentation. I do look forward to continuing this dialogue with you as we have much to share with each other.
Best regards,
Dayle
1

October 02, 2008
Megan Delorme: ...
Hi Dayle,
I was so pleased when I received your email about your newsletter. I will look forward to others in the future. It is great to see you taking your business to the next level with such passion. Thanks to you, I too am so much more environmentally aware, not only in the choices I make for myself but for those I will be making for my clients. Ever since Materials Class, I have not used fabric softener. It's vinegar for us all the way!! I so, so enjoyed the Materials 1 and 2 that you taught, even though, as you know I had my Textiles degree. I never failed to learn something from you every week, as well as really enjoyed just listening to everything you had to say.
Thanks so much again not only for your passion but your expertise and guidance as well.
Megan

Megan,
I had feared you might be bored in class, given your previous education, but you remained open-minded and participated with enthusiasm. Thanks for your feedback and I do wish you success in your business!
Dayle
2

December 01, 2008

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