Brought to you by KAIASnaturals
Living sustainably on Earth as humans is an idea that seems to have been somewhat greenwashed lately. While there are excellent initiatives out there addressing several issues that humankind has created on Earth, we need a more hands-on approach not only to deal with them but to live with them in the foreseeable future.
Can we prioritise human well-being over economic growth? Can we revitalise our communities so that people and the planet come first before profit? “What we do now echoes in eternity,” said Marcus Aurelius almost 2,000 years ago, and we all see it played out in our own lives. Creating systems based on the principles of regenerative design means that we could set up businesses that are dynamic and emergent, restorative, and beneficial for humans and the planet. This new paradigm encourages designers and business owners to apply permaculture design principles, such as using and valuing renewable resources and services, producing no waste, and using small and slow solutions, to name a few of the 12 principles.
Looking at a local, Tairua-based organic body care business, KAIASnaturals, their modus operandi is based on such ethics and values:
– Working with NZ family-owned suppliers of the finest ethically sourced ingredients, bought directly from the growers where possible
– Creating highly effective chemical-free and environmentally safe body care products that follow the ‘less is more’ principle: including high-potency ingredients for maximum effect and leaving out anything that’s unnecessary
– Using recyclable packaging that can be refilled several times, thus elongating the life cycle of their tins, bottles and jars – they offer a 10% discount on your next order for returning the packaging!
– Offering DIY kits and workshops where they teach small groups how to make their own body care products because they believe in self-sufficiency
– Supporting people-powered change by a weekly donation to the independent crowdfunded community campaigning organisation, ActionStation NZ.
We can be the change we wish to see in our and future generations’ world by taking one step at a time, so we don’t get caught up in often paralysing climate anxiety, and by making the right choices for each other’s and the planet’s well-being, and taking responsibility for our actions. Whether it’s on the level of our own and our families’ personal hygiene and body care, whether it’s how we run our businesses, and how we contribute to the well-being of our communities by giving back, we can create a paradigm shift!
by Kaia Kohout, Owner & Creator of KAIASnaturals
