Growers and Grocers

Clearly I think going green is not only an important thing for us to do, but an imperative thing to do!

But when does Going Green go too far? I think I’ve found my limit…

Stationary kits and journals made from Elephant Poo at Uncommon Goods. Yes, you read that correctly… ELEPHANT POO!

How in the world is this even possible, you ask?

The making of paper starts with the collection and processing of the dung pulp. Elephant dung is typically full of short to medium grained fibrous materials from the elephants diet which, when processed, makes excellent paper.

First, the naturally dried elephant dung is collected from elephant conservation parks and brought back to the paper-making factory.

Next, the elephant dung is pre-rinsed with water, leaving only the fibrous materials from the grasses, bamboo & fruits they’ve eaten.

The fibers are placed into a giant pot of boiling water to ensure the fibers are super clean. After this thorough cleaning, the desired color can be added.

Natural fibers from banana trees & pineapples are added to the dung mixture so the paper will be thicker and stronger.

Once this is all mixed together, the moist fibers are separated into small “cakes” or “wafers” of about 300-400 grams each.

The cakes are spread evenly over a mesh-bottomed tray measuring about 60cm by 90cm.

The tray is leaned up against a tree, angled toward the sun and allowed to dry naturally for a few hours.

Once dry, the sheet of paper is peeled from the mesh tray and you can start making the paper products.

-Courtesy of The Great Elephant Poo Poo Paper Company

Okay, okay… sounds reasonable enough, but if you want to find unusual earth-friendly gifts that do not involve elephant dung, check out Uncommon Goods’ other amazing products in their Recycled Collection.

Some of my personal favorites are the Recycled Fleece Smittens, Billboard Shower Curtain, Reclaimed Patchwood Stool, and the Recycled Skateboard Necklace. They all make great gifts, and Christmas isn’t as far away as you might think!