close up of hands weaving eco friendly Frafra baskets

The Rise of Sustainable Bags and Baskets: Why Sustainable Baskets are a Must-Have

In a world that's increasingly conscious of its environmental footprint, the demand for sustainable alternatives is on the rise. Although the greenest thing we can all do is buy nothing, sometimes that’s (obviously!) not an option, so the key is to buy better so you can buy less. 

 

The Environmental Edge: Why Sustainability matters

Material Matters: Reducing Plastic Pollution

Sustainable baskets provide a welcome escape from the clutches of single-use plastics. By opting for materials like organic cotton, jute, or recycled plastics, you contribute to reducing the staggering levels of plastic pollution that plague our oceans and ecosystems. Frafra Baskets are made from sustainably sourced Veta Vera grass and real leather. 

 

Carbon Footprint Reduction

Choosing sustainably sourced materials and supporting brands committed to ethical practices aids in lowering carbon footprints. Baskets have a longer lifespan, promoting the idea of a circular economy where products are designed to be reused or repurposed. At Frafra we not only have a low carbon footprint because we make it as low as possible at every stage of production, but we are on our way to offsetting the carbon we can’t currently lower anymore than we have (shipping from Ghana to the UK, for example!)

 

Biodegradability

Unlike their synthetic counterparts, sustainable bags and baskets made from natural fibres decompose over time, leaving behind no toxic residue. This biodegradability ensures that even at the end of their lifecycle, these accessories contribute minimally to landfill waste. At Frafra we have a zero-waste policy - we reuse everything!. 

As a part of that we have also introduced Wonky Frafra - where you can find baskets that have been damaged or cannot be sold at expected retail value, so that they’re not thrown away but purchased at a discount to be used differently or repaired! 

 

Style: Where Sustainability Meets Fashion

Unique and Artisanal

Sustainable baskets (including our own) are handmade or produced in small batches, adding an element of uniqueness to each piece. Crafted by artisans who prioritise quality over quantity, these accessories tell a story of craftsmanship, setting them apart from mass-produced alternatives.

 

Celebrating Diversity

Sustainable materials offer a vast palette for designers to work with. Bamboo, hemp, and upcycled materials open new avenues for creativity. This diversity allows for the creation of accessories that cater to a range of tastes and preferences, ensuring there's a sustainable bag or basket for everyone.

 

Versatility: More Than Meets the Eye

smiling weavers sit outside in a group

Durable and Long-Lasting

Baskets are built to endure the test of time. Whether it’s a daily commute, a weekend getaway, or a shopping trip, these accessories are designed to withstand the rigours of everyday life. Investing in durability means fewer replacements and less waste in the long run. Frafra Baskets can last decades - really! 

 

Multi-Functional Designs

Many sustainable bags are designed with versatility in mind. Convertible straps, detachable components, and adjustable features make these accessories adaptable to various needs. 

 

Our Sustainability Journey 

From our beginnings two years ago we have been committed to integrating sustainability into all parts of our operations, from production to distribution. We have an in-depth Sustainability Policy that can be read here. The Policy not only outlines our commitment to environmental sustainability, but also social sustainability and responsibility. We are currently applying for a number of social and environmental certifications to ensure standards are upheld and backed by sustainability experts. 

 

Make Sustainable Choices

The surge in demand for sustainable bags and baskets is a conscious choice toward a more responsible but equally beautiful item: fashion and sustainability can coexist harmoniously. 

Find the right sustainable Basket Bag for yourself in our basket bags collection

Or, if you’re more into homeware, check out our homeware collection!

Olivia Peterson

Olivia joined Frafra Baskets in March 2022. She has since made several trips to Ghana and has a background in African Studies and Contemporary Art from Africa and its diaspora. She leads the UK side and works alongside Pokka on operations in Ghana.

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