If you’re curious about new green or sustainable kitchen storage, look no further than at the work of Mauricio Arruda. The Brazilian designer has produced several lines of cabinets and storage bins that look much like the plastic nesting crates that are found almost everywhere. But take a closer look.
The Jose Collection uses recycled plastic inserted into wooden frames with sturdy steel legs. The base is constructed of carbon steel coated with anti-corrosion paint. The wooden slats used to construct the frames are cut from trees in forests certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Rather than use solvent-based paints, all wood sections are treated with natural carnauba wax for their finish.
The design allows the containers to come out of the frames so you can put kitchen pots and pans, food, towels, bottled items, or spices in them. Or you can take the containers to the grocery store, arrange your purchases in them, and bring them home for storage.
If you’re shopping for sustainable kitchen cabinets and replacement materials, look for the same FSC seal of approval on your wood products. Even deadfall or storm-damaged wood can be harvested under FSC requirements and be used in cabinet or kitchen counter materials. Green flooring products can also be certified under FSC guidelines.
Other sustainable materials include bio-composites, salvaged woods, plantation-grown coconut palm, and solid bamboo. If you look around online or at green home improvement centers you’ll find non-toxic paint, natural wall coverings, non-toxic adhesives and caulk, and sustainable wall-boards. Recycled, formaldehyde-free cabinet doors, drawers, and fronts are also sold around the country if you want to use them.
