Ecology is ever more at the forefront of ‘to do’ lists, concerning all areas of life. Not surprisingly, it was the theme when talking to manufacturers during the Stockholm Design Fair this year. An ecological approach is nothing new for the Nordic market, it's been part of production for decades in their design industry. Ecology generally though has always had a bit of a slightly drab ‘must do’ label to it, calling our conscience.

Now things seem to shift rather swiftly. Across all manufacturing a wide range of recycled materials are emerging, presenting new, attractive solutions They no longer have the ‘we must do’, but rather we ‘love doing this’, connotation, an improved upbeat tune. There is a freshness coming along with lots of colour, great graphics, new products with playful approaches all bringing fun into the game.

Companies pride themselves for what they do and why, ever exploring new roads, prioritising regional production, the use of nontoxic components, for example minimum plastics used for furniture packing, instead using heaps of blankets over and over again. Kinnarps as an example also uses better, more efficient vehicle packing for maximum use of space in their trucks, allowing for less vehicles to run the roads.

Kinnarps produces office furniture and with it passionately promotes a healthy lifestyles, advertising 'spaces where people thrive' and who does not want to be part of that?

Ecology is not just the environment, earth, water, air but also how we treat people, care for staff, childcare, flexible work hours, professional and emotional support. It's a circle where everything connects to everything. Shipping toxins round the world, dumped in places we prefer not to think of, is not included in this circular approach. More manufacturers look to invest in waste handling and how to reuse spill. We have the power to choose, every life is valuable. We realise, everyone has the power to contribute. We do no longer automatically endorse products that don’t match worthwhile values. instead like to welcome a lighter, more playful approach to solutions for our wellbeing.

With new approach and valuable design input, the everyday gets more exciting. An example are simple waste bins made to look upbeat, offering a visual contribution. Trece.se offers a wealth of stylish choices for office and public spaces, confidently signalling, it’s fun to be part of the ‘we care’ club,. It all starts with a waste bin.

It is with great urgency many prophets of today are pushing for ways of change, to take responsibility for what we do and why. Whilst this is much needed, it often has a commanding air around it, far from the joy of living which we all ultimately aspire to, life should not be a drag. So lets find upbeat solutions inspiring our senses. A more relaxed approach supports solutions which make us more comfortable to choose change of routines and 'must have that thing’ addiction to be left behind.

At  the Stockholm Design Fair in February 2020, one of the furniture manufacturers displayed only second hand accessories, something they have done for years. adding personal flair to their presentations, It gives an immediate sense of involvement, signalling the 'good for all', and to connect is part of the ecological road.

One thing leads to another, through ecology we become more aware of ourselves and the impact our choices have.

I can’t wait to see what new ideas are coming our way, allowing to dream up the best scenarios in life. Everyone’s vision has an impact, so let’s dream big, bold and colourful.

bench for public space by Mathilda Lindstam Nilsson for Nola

Our space is important, how we treat it defines us, signalling the values we set for society.