SustainAbility: design for a better world™

SustainAbility: design for a better world exhibit is featured each winter and summer at NYIGF, showcasing global gift and home industry suppliers whose products or production processes are eco-friendly, as well as companies whose corporate philosophies are socially responsible, philanthropic or fair-trade oriented.

In August, the display will examine worldwide efforts that have an immediate and measurable impact on the health of our planet and its communities. It will explore which countries are supporting ecological efforts and which manufacturers have balanced 21st century technology with eco-friendly means and ways. It also will demonstrate how these humanitarian goals are furthered through commercial design and activity.

All confirmed NYIGF exhibitors were invited to participate and final selections have been made. Ilene Shaw of Shaw+Co! Productions reviewed all submissions and selected participants. In choosing the products for the display, inventiveness – as well as newness and aesthetic – were considered. Criteria included:

“Green” Products:
• products that are manufactured or constructed with only recycled, recyclable and/or sustainable materials
Environmentally-friendly Production Processes:
• manufacturers who are using alternative sources of energy in production, including wind, sun, and alternative fuels.
Socially-responsible business practices:
• products produced by indigenous peoples, creating viable, sustainable trades and markets in poverty-stricken and needy communities worldwide
• manufacturers who donate percentages of their sales to not-for-profit organizations

P.S. In addition to the display, NYIGF also offers a multi-part seminar program addressing sustainability. Our August 2008 line-up will feature three programs – one directed to retailers, a second directed manufacturers/designers and a third specific to Fair Trade practices.

Visit www.nyigf.com/programs for details and registration.

Winter 2008 SustainAbility Display Participant List

Summer 2007 SustainAbility Display (Materials Focus) Participant List