Let's talk CORK!

eco purses nz

CORK is one of the MOST sustainable, environmentally friendly and renewable materials on the planet!

It's recyclable, sustainable, water-resistant, lightweight....and the list doesn't stop there!

It primarily comes from one tree, the Quercus suber, otherwise known as the Cork Oak Tree. It's native to the southwestern region of Europe and North Africa, with nearly 35% growing in Portugal.

 

What's so special about cork? What makes it such a great material to use?

Oh, the list is long... but here are a few highlights.

  • Natural
  • Recyclable
  • Sustainable
  • Biodegradable
  • Anti allergenic
  • Water resistant
  • Lightweight
  • Flame resistant
  • Soft and tactile
  • Vegan friendly
  • Durable
  • Flexible 
  • Environmentally responsible material
  • Stain resistant

 

From tree to you...

cork design ware

Harvesting Cork - is the tree damaged?

Not at all. After planting, a cork tree becomes ready for harvesting around 25-30 years later! The first harvest (the virgin cork) is generally poor quality and is usually used for insulation or flooring. Subsequent harvests typically occur every 9 years, and this is the good stuff!

To harvest the cork, the bark has to be separated from the tree, This happens between early May and late August only, which is the most active period of growth. This ensures no permanent damage is done to the tree. It's actually good for the tree, as it enhances the ability to absorb carbon dioxide, which in turn helps the tree grow faster and longer. On average, a tree will be stripped sixteen times in its lifetime of over 200 years.

Did you know that the cork tree is protected by law in Portugal? This partnership between conservation and development ensure sustainability of this  invaluable natural resource. In recent years a series of reforestation programmes have meant over 130,000 hectares of Cork oak trees have been planted in Portugal and Spain. This has ensured that greater quantities of this incredible natural eco-friendly product can be harvested for future generations.

 

Some Sciencey Stuff!

Cork has a honeycomb cell structure. Each cell is a 14 sided tetradecahedron that's filled with air. (Did I mention how lightweight it is!) This means it has an extremely strong and flexible membrane. Perfect for making into bags, purses and wallets that get daily use!

 

There's so much to love about CORK!

So it's a big tick from an eco perspective, but let's talk possibilities!

Cork can be made into bags, purses, belts, umbrellas (how cool is that!) as well as dog leads, jewellery and more. It's such a versatile material. It can be coloured (with vegetable inks, of course) patterned - check out some of our epic designs or used "au naturel".

Keep checking back as we extend the range of products at Corker.

 

It really is a CORKER!