Sustainable product trends focus on reducing environmental impact and meeting consumer demand for eco-friendly, ethically produced goods. Key trends include the rise of circular economy products, designed for reusability and recyclability, with longer life cycles using biodegradable or recycled materials. In fashion, this shift includes fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester, while the packaging industry moves towards compostable and zero-waste options. Moreover, smart, energy-efficient technologies are becoming popular, with consumers favoring products that reduce carbon emissions. Transparency around sourcing and environmental impact, supported by certifications like Fair Trade and organic labels, is also driving growth in the market for sustainable products.
Sustainability Expo 2024 proudly presents the SX Marketplace, a hub for eco-friendly businesses showcasing sustainable designs and local products.
Taking place from September 27 to October 6, 2024, at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), SX Marketplace aligns with the theme 'Sufficiency for Sustainability.' This year’s edition brings together over 300 eco-conscious brands offering sustainable design items and local goods, making it the biggest event yet.
Under the theme 'Grow Green Together', the SX Marketplace champions sustainable business growth, supporting Thai entrepreneurs across all stages of production. It serves not only as a market for eco-friendly products but also as a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, reinforcing the idea that 'Sustainability is everyone’s responsibility.'
The event focuses on creating a more sustainable world and finding balance in everyday life during these challenging times. This year’s marketplace features six product categories and seven highlight zones, including the Pocket Park garden showcasing three distinct community garden themes. Visitors will also find internationally recognised, award-winning designs from The Design & Objects Association and DEmark Thailand, promoting sustainability through creativity.
Mr Kitthanapong Rodjanabovon, owner of Same Thang, stated that "The inspiration came from being a coffee enthusiast and collecting coffee packaging. I came up with the idea to turn these into eco-friendly products to help reduce the impact of global warming. Coffee packaging is quite difficult to decompose, and burning it can cause more environmental damage than other types of waste. Our products, such as bags, are made from coffee bean packaging, following the theme 'Good Material to Good Product.' We use the Catup Design process, which involves recycling bottle caps or HDPE plastic into new products. We purchase the caps from communities at higher-than-market prices to encourage waste separation and provide extra income. Then, we design and mold the caps into products, giving new life to these materials, making them more valuable and useful. Caring for the environment is all around us," Mr Kitthanapong emphasised.
Ms Chananphat Sittithananphat, owner of Hugely, mentioned that "Our bags are made from retired fire hoses, crafted into what we call 'Hugely' bags. Each of us has our own story, where we come from and how we came to be. The durability of the fire hoses gives our bags strength and longevity. We aim to bring these discarded items back into everyday life, encouraging everyone to appreciate waste materials and contribute to reducing the waste on Earth."
Ms Rumpha Praweenapongphat, owner of Rumba Bor, added, "Rumba Bor is a functional art collective inspired by everyday Thai kitsch. We celebrate beauty in overlooked details and materials, blending Thai-Chinese flair into our designs. Our Art Deco set includes the Choei Stool and Cherng Side Table. Choei is a handcrafted stool that reimagines antique Chinese design using recycled polypropylene, creating marble-like patterns that merge tradition with modernity."
Mr Thakun Chaopasi, owner of Bon-Ban, explained that "Our eco-friendly 'chicken-shaped vow redemption' products will decompose 100% within one month after use. Inside, there are seeds that will grow into trees, symbolising the fulfillment of the vow and adding greenery to the place with auspicious flowers."
Mr Charn Sithiyavanich, Co-Founder of Maddy Hopper, said, "The inspiration came from wanting to create simple, everyday shoes that are environmentally responsible. Our first product was shoes made from plastic bottles and latex mattress scraps, which expanded into socks made from food waste collagen. Our standout feature is our focus on sustainability, design, and functionality. We turn waste into value and emphasise providing value that matches the price, which is our competitive advantage."
The event also features an Art Market, with a diverse range of Fine Art, Pop Art, and Art Toys. Let’s explore the seven highlight zones of SX Marketplace together.