Sustainability

After a winter cooped up inside, reconnecting with nature can feel pretty good. But writer and communications manager for The Wildlife Trust, Lucy McRobert, is on a mission to keep our lives wild all year round, so we caught up with her to hear about her new book, 365 Days Wild.

If you felt more positive for eating your lunchtime sandwich at the local park, or simply buying an exotic new pot plant to brighten up your window sill, then you weren’t imagining it. Scientifically proven to decrease stress, improve mood and self-esteem, connecting with nature on even the most basic of levels works to enrich our wellbeing. The best part of it? You don’t have to be a full on wildlife fanatic in order to reap the benefits.

Since its start, Lucy has headed up The Wildlife Trusts’ popular 30 Days Wild, a campaign that asks people to do one random act of wildness each day. Lucy found that the charity was becoming increasingly overwhelmed with emails asking how the community could continue their random acts of wildness 365 days of the year.

Over the years, the campaign’s community has evolved, with nature enthusiasts sharing wild inspiration and advice in whatever way they can. Motivated by the buzz around 30 Days Wild, Lucy saw an opportunity to write a book, she says:

“I wanted all of these ideas to be captured in a book inspired by the community. It was totally motivated by the people who took part in the campaign and the ones who wanted to extend their wild journey all year round.”

365 Days Wild is a grab-and-go book, the kind you keep in the back of the car so you can stay in touch with nature wherever you go. Bursting with bright ideas for everyone to enjoy, activities range from squelching your bare toes in mud (oh come on, we all remember how good that felt as a child), to making your own wild blackberry vodka.

While Lucy’s work with The Wildlife Trust has informed much of the book, it’s also been written with a genuine passion to improve people’s lives through their engagement with the natural world.The book’s accessible authenticity comes from Lucy’s own contagious enthusiasm for all things wild, however it’s written in an incredibly down to earth way.

Forget trying to memorise 600 different bird calls, this book is about simply looking outside your window, appreciating the little wild things around you and feeling better for it.

“I’m not an expert naturalist and for me it’s about learning something new, revisiting things until they’re really cemented in your head and then using them to inspire what you do the next day.”

The arrival of Lucy’s daughter has also played a part in her desire to reignite the love of wildlife most of us shared as children. 365 Days Wild reminds us how valuable it is to remember the child-like happiness that nature can bring, something easily forgotten when sat staring at a computer from nine to five:

“The first time we put our daughter down on grass, the first time we put her down on sand, the first time we put her feet in the sea – her reactions and experience of the natural world was so exciting. It’s lovely to live that through someone else’s eyes.”

As adulthood and all the responsibilities that come with it sneak up on us, sometimes we lose touch with the very earth we’re standing on. This book will remind you how getting back to nature, as Lucy puts it: “can genuinely make our lives better.”

So whether you live in this city or countryside, have a love of nature that needs rekindling, or you just want some new ways to connect with the world outside, this book should be your new go-to. 365 Days Wild is released on the 16th of May and will be available to buy in all major bookstores online, in some shops, and selected Wildlife Trust book stores.

We’re beginning to look harder at what we put on our plates. A recent survey found that Britain’s vegan population had grown exponentially - in 2016 it was estimated there were at least 542,000 people following a vegan diet. Since then this figure has continued to rise. We spoke to Louise Davies, founder of The Vegan Society’s Plate Up for the Planet campaign, to find out what difference eating green can make to the environment.

Campaigns such as Veganuary and Plate Up for the Planet are playing their part in this green revolution, challenging us to all hail kale and choose chickpeas over chicken. These online initiatives are helping on-the-fence vegans decide whether tofu or not tofu, drumming up awareness of the potential problems with the meat and dairy industry and encouraging people to give a greener diet a shot whether for a week, 31 days, or a lifetime.

Plate Up for the Planet is helping to highlight the hugely positive environmental impact that people can have simply by going plant-based. Louise explains: “The campaign is aimed at people who care about the environment, and making them aware of the benefits that they can have by choosing a vegan diet. When you look at the comparison of things like beans v.s beef and the related carbon emissions of producing those, opting for the vegan option is one of the most significant things you can do.” 2017’s campaign collectively saved a whopping 147,000 kg CO2e - that’s enough carbon dioxide to fly to the moon and back!

It’s no secret that our planet is at temperature tipping point, and, with the Paris climate agreement requesting the world’s nations to commit to preventing what scientists regard as irreversible and dangerous levels of climate change, it seems important that we also make a personal commitment to reducing our own impact. But can the food we consume really make that much of a difference to our ecological footprint?

Louise says: “There’s lots of reputable organisations like Chatham House who have said that we radically need to rethink our meat and dairy consumption if we’re going to hit our Paris Climate Change targets. Even the FAO (Food and Agricultural Organisation) have said we need to be eating differently. Those of us who are concerned about climate change need to start at the real basics of what we’re eating. There are lots of things that governments can do to help tackle these issues, but we have to take on responsibility ourselves as individuals too.”

So where to start? It’s an exciting time in the food industry - alive with innovation, from bleeding beetroot burgers to ‘Gary’ the vegan cheese and Louise is keen to highlight that this needn’t be “a chore or a life of bean soaking!”. Above all, she stresses that vegan cookery can be fun and interesting: “It’s a really enjoyable way to start thinking about food. There are even innovations you can use such as chickpea water to make meringues and things that you probably would never have come across if you weren’t eating in this way.”

For those feeling a little daunted by the prospect of ditching dairy for a week, the website is full of mouthwatering recipes, all of which have had carbon emission tests in order to show how much lower their food footprints are, while also helping you to stay inspired throughout the week. Drag and drop your favourite recipes into the seven day meal plan and print it out to stay on track. This year sees some incredibly ‘gnawsome’ recipes from Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall and Thomasina Miers, as well as loads of other information about general nutrition advice to help you on your journey.

Plate Up for the Planet is a great first step to take if you’re interested in taking the plant-based plunge. Louise suggests thinking about what you love eating and then veganising it with simple replacements, such as meat substitutes, chickpeas or beans. She says: “There is a fantastic vegan community, where you can get answers to all your questions online.”

Signing up to the campaign is simple. You’ll be able to choose your start date when you sign up to the challenge, meaning you can begin the seven days at any time. The campaign offers a fun entry point into veganism, where you can find plenty of support and guidance. You’ll receive an email every day with new recipes, tips and information, so you’re less likely to fall off the wagon. Louise comments: “It’s quite a transformative thing to do and I appreciate that not everyone is going to be able to do that over night, so starting with a seven day challenge or cutting down gradually is a good way to get on that vegan journey.”

If you’re ready to Plate Up for the Planet, then you can sign up here. Alternatively, if you’re still curious about the relationship between animal agriculture and its effect on global warming, then why not read on for more information.

Flower power is the force behind much of what Lush do and an abundance of blooms go into making fresh products that work more effectively thanks to Mother Nature. So it was only natural that eventually things would blossom into the world of bouquets. Oxford Street, Liverpool and Shinjuku now sell Lush flowers, and here’s what you can expect when you pick up a posy or a potted plant at selected stores.

A rising tide of artists, florists and designers are shaking up the conventional flower industry, embracing natural imperfections, sourcing locally, or foraging for foliage to create a wilder aesthetic in their bouquets. It would seem that the flower industry is slowly catching up with the food industry and awareness is growing about where our flowers come from and the ethics behind them. Much like the wonky veg movement, we are starting to re-address the notion of a beautiful bouquet. Some artists are even creating arrangements from dead flowers, describing the concept as ‘upcycled beauty in the afterlife’, while other florists are turning their backs on floral foam due to the fact it doesn’t biodegrade. So what’s causing this flower revolution?

Whether it’s a big day, birthday, or a bad day - a bunch of flowers are a staple when it comes gift giving; a way to show we care, or to introduce a little more colour into our homes. Studies have shown that bringing nature indoors does wonders for our wellbeing, boosting moods and reducing stress levels, so it’s no wonder a big bunch of flowers can beat even the most stubborn of blues, but you may be wondering what a cosmetics company can bring to the table of fresh flowers.

Those who know about Lush product inventor and co-founder Mark Constantine’s fondness for a floral shirt, may not be surprised by the decision to branch into floristry. Plants have always been at the root of what Lush do, with plant materials, infusions, flowers and petals featuring in every product. The decision to sell cut flowers came from a want to celebrate the freshness of these cosmetics.

As consumers we’ve become spoilt for choice, we can pick peonies and receive roses all year round. That’s because, currently around 80% of our cut flowers are imported, travelling long distances from countries like the Netherlands, Colombia and Kenya where the sunshine means it’s far easier to grow certain varieties. This got us thinking not only about how Lush could start creating seasonal bouquets, but how we could support local industry, while also cutting a few airmiles at the same time.

The Lush buying team work tirelessly to ensure that no matter where in the world they’re sourcing ingredients from, they’re sticking to a strict code of ethics. Some of these ingredients are sourced from other countries, supporting communities and regenerative projects, however the flower project offers a chance to look long term at where in the supply chain improvements can be made, because let’s face it, every little helps.

Eventually you’ll find a selection of seasonal flowers in Lush displays, helping connect you to the ingredients found in your favourite fresh products. The goal is to eventually ensure that all flowers in the supply chain are seasonal.

The project is pedalled by three main desires - to source flowers from the local market (wherever that may be in the world), to create 100% compostable packaging, and finally to get to know local growers. 

A lovely part of this project, is that not only will arrangements look different depending on the season, but the range of flowers offered will also be completely unique depending on whereabouts in the world you are. Plans are in the pipeline to launch Lush bouquets in Paris, Japan, and hopefully in lots more exciting locations. While some may view working with a seasonal range of flowers restrictive, we’re keen for a creative challenge.

Working with smaller, seasonal growers means the materials we have to work with are more limited, that’s why you’ll find herbs, ivy, willow, and other beautiful foliage you wouldn’t typically find in your local florists or supermarket bouquets.

What’s more, the addition of herbs, the seasonality of the flowers and lack of preservatives means these bouquets smell incredible. How often have you gone to sniff a bunch of flowers only to be disappointed by their strange lack of smell? Often commercial flowers are bred for durability and vase life and not for their scent, leaving you feeling unsatisfied. Lush bouquets will be a multi-sensory experience, a worthy compromise between a very slightly shorter vase life and flowers that not only look standout, but smell fabulously fresh.

Rather than using preservatives, we’ve used natural ways to keep flowers fresh for longer. The outer petals of certain flowers are called guard petals. These work to naturally protect the flower. Often florists will remove guard petals as they have a slightly mottled appearance, but we’ve decided to leave them on to protect the flower in transit, letting the customer remove them at home.

Each stage of the process has been thought through, from buckets made from recycled plastic, to the growers the team choose to work with. Lush wants to work with environmentally conscious farmers who are willing to make positive change. This may sound a little airy fairy, but due to the inherent use of pesticides in the flower industry, a want to make a difference is a positive first step. Of course, where possible the team want to use organic suppliers, but these are sometimes few and far between. So the crew have put some tight guidelines in place. We’re working with Pesticides Action Network, who have a list of 300 highly hazardous chemicals. Lush are asking growers to share the pesticides they use, then if they’re using any pesticides on PAN’s list we will work with them longer term, going as far as we can to eliminate pesticides. However, Lush are only willing to work with people working towards change.

As well as offering an array of bouquets, Lush flowers will include a small selection of potted plants, such as aloe vera and coffee plants. These are potted in a mixture of compost made from the Lush Green Hub’s factory waste and contain cork waste, an eco friendly way to help the compost retain moisture. The soil is decorated with recycled glass that prevents compost from spilling out of the black pots you may well be familiar with. While these plants are currently imported, they’re an investment and a handy care guide will help you make these precious plants last for years to come.

Pick up a seasonal bouquet for your sweetie (or yourself) at Lush Oxford Street, Liverpool or Shinjuku and keep your eyes peeled for more news on Lush flowers. In the meantime, why not read about the secret messages behind your blooms.

In the town of Marda, Palestine - an area of prolonged political unrest - a farm founded on permaculture initiatives is reinvigorating the local community. Since 2006, local farmer Murad has utilised resourceful solutions such as food forests, composting, clever water systems and an abundance of other permaculture designs to turn the Marda Permaculture Farm into a sustainable paradise.

For generations, families from Marda, situated in the Salfit region of the West Bank, have tended to their olive groves and harvested exquisite olive oil, but when the West Bank fell to Israel many farms were dispossessed. Under Israeli military occupation, life for the olive farmers of Marda has been especially challenging.

In 2005, the Israeli government built the so-called Separation Wall - a physical barrier that separates many Palestinian people from their olive trees. In order to regain access and tend to their groves, these farmers must apply for a permit from the government. Even those with a permit, however, are often denied entry to the trees at certain times of the year without facing harassment from soldiers and confiscation of olives harvested. Farmers are often arrested simply for picking olives from their own land and, since the construction of the Separation Wall, water and land resources previously owned by Palestinians are often seized, making it even more difficult to look after their olive trees.

Despite the turbulent political climate, Murad has worked vigilantly to create a permaculture project which promotes cultural, ecological and economic vigilance within occupied territories, hosting courses on permaculture design, home-scale permaculture gardens and beekeeping for the benefit of the community. At a hostile time when segregation by the Israeli government prevails, Marda Permaculture Farm helps to connect Palestinians to each other and their environment.

Working on the three principles of permaculture; care of the earth, care of people and fair share, the project acts as a training model for local farmers and international permaculture students, teaching them how to maximise local resources and move towards sustainable production. As a prolific example of food security and self-sustainability, Marda Permaculture Farm helps to educate other local olive farmers on how to grow food and cash crops organically and also supplies local families with beehives so that they can produce their own honey, and greywater systems to irrigate crops more efficiently.

The development of the Marda Permaculture Farm gives hope that, despite the difficulties faced by growers here, farmers can make a living from the olive oil they have expertly produced for so many years. Since 2013, buyers from The Sustainable Lush Fund have worked alongside the farm, ensuring that the growers receive a fair price for their wonderful olive oil which can go back into developing this strikingly smart regenerative farm. Recently, funds from SLush went towards an underground cistern which provides water to the olive growers of Marda. The cistern ensures that farmers have access to a reliable source of water which cannot be shut off by the Israeli government.

The Marda Permaculture Farm is a heartwarming example of a community that is helping to create and maintain a sustainable and fruitful farming future for generations to come, whilst continuing to create their high quality oil as a form of non-violent resistance to the occupation. You can find their artisan olive oil in Olive Tree gourmet soap - one in a range of soaps made particularly special by a luxurious, in-house soap base and beautiful ingredients sourced from uniquely regenerative communities like Marda.

It can sweeten your tea and even power your car. Sugarcane is a versatile plant that’s turned into a variety of useful everyday items, from biofuel to sugar. Lush source organic ethanol, an ingredient made from fermented sugarcane, from a carbon neutral company. Here’s how they’re pioneering new farming methods in order to boost biodiversity in Brazil. 

A perennial grass cultivated for its sweet juice, a dozen countries around the world dedicate 25 percent or more of all agricultural land to the production of sugarcane. This natural ingredient is a pretty big deal, but the environmental impact of traditional sugarcane farming methods can be far from sweet. 

Fuelling deforestation in sensitive ecosystems, Brazil’s Atlantic Forest has been reduced to seven percent of its original size due to sugarcane and other farming, A thirsty crop, it takes a whopping nine gallons of water to produce just one teaspoon of refined cane sugar. But it’s not all bad news, a growing number of carbon-conscious farmers are rethinking how they grow this valuable crop.

When fermented, sugarcane transforms into ethanol, a type of alcohol. Aside from going on to become hangover-inducing tipples, it’s also commonly used in *perfumery. Why? Because ethanol helps a blend of essential oils to merge and increases the staying power of the final perfume. Olivia Sweeney from the Lush buying team says:

“Ethanol is a key ingredient in Lush perfumes, so I wanted to make sure this ingredient was the best it could be. We work hard to source the best quality essential oils and our perfumers create unique fragrances, so why would we use an average ethanol that doesn’t aim to do better for people or planet?”

Some of the most biodiverse regions on the planet have been cleared for sugarcane farming, leading to habitat loss, soil degradation and pollution, so finding a supplier who suits the Lush buying team’s strict ethical buying policy was important. That’s when the team came across a supplier shaking up the sugarcane industry for the better. 

Transparent in their practices, this Fair For Life organic supplier from Brazil doesn't use pesticides and has a significantly lower carbon footprint than conventional sugarcane farming. What’s more they’ve invested in pioneering technology to steer farmers aware from damaging slash methods. 

Working towards becoming zero waste, sugarcane bagasse is harvested from juice extraction and used to power the process. Whatever they don’t use goes straight into the grid, creating enough electricity for 600,000 inhabitants.

The most exciting part? They’re helping to bring back some of the animals in the area which are on the brink of extinction. Recovering the land and replanting around 2.6 million trees, the ground only requires tillage every seven years or more and the sugarcane harvest happens only once a year. This gives native animals a chance to use the plantations as an effective habitat without disruption.

Keeping soil healthy is a priority and growing other crops and letting grass spread freely boosts soil fertility and resilience, as well as attracting insects and other animals. The improved soil quality has even led to an emergence of two new waterways in the area. Prioritising the animals in the region, forest corridors have also been built to allow wildlife to move safely through the area. 

A great example of humans and animals living alongside one another, after eight years of organic farming and sustainable methods, unusual animals were spotted in the fields. Partnering with a local researcher to carry out a biodiversity assessment, the survey showed 335 different species were present in the sugarcane plantation, 49 of which were actually endangered to some degree. Animals such as pumas, aplomado falcons and black jacobins were spotted - an exciting result for the sugarcane plantation. 

Livia Froes is part of the Lush buying team as Latin America HUB Coordinator and has witnessed the positive change these suppliers have made over the past eight years. She says: 

“I’ve been following this supplier’s work for over eight years now and they’ve gone through a great and innovative journey, especially for an industry famous for fire practices. Our supplier’s work based on sustainable practices and environmental preservation is a breaking point for outdated practices in the industry and I hope their work can be an example for other companies. 

It’s such a joy to be able to support Lush to work with a supplier that is supporting the regeneration of the Atlantic forest, one of the most devastated biomes in South America and where I’ve lived my whole life.”

These revolutionary sustainable methods have resulted in a sugarcane plantation that’s 23 times more biodiverse than conventional sugarcane fields in the region, a promising start for the industry. 

Browse the Lush perfume collection, or read about the current perfume range and where to find it here. 

*Ethanol is denatured for use in cosmetics and is unfit for consumption, so please don’t crack open a bottle of perfume next friday, no matter how good it smells.