In episode 9 of The Green Perspective Podcast, Lily Clarke and Steph Berwick sat down with Pierre Talpe, the owner and director of Rainbow to talk about embracing sustainability through innovation and collaboration. Known for its innovative use of 100% recycled and plant-based materials for forestry, horticulture, and landscaping products, Rainbow stands at the forefront of sustainable manufacturing. Pierre shared some of the challenges, triumphs, and future ambitions of Rainbow in the quest for a greener planet.
Rainbow's Journey: From Waste to Wealth
Rainbow is a manufacturing business based in Hull, East Yorkshire. Acquired five years ago by Pierre and his brother, the company has a legacy of 60 years in turning waste streams into 100% recycled products. Using discarded items like wheelie bins, cookie jars, and even old COVID masks, Rainbow creates essentials for landscaping and forestry such as spiral tree guards and garden edgings.
"Our mission is to help our customers shape the environment more sustainably," Pierre emphasised, highlighting the intricate partnership elements of their work. This involves collaborating with customers to develop better, more sustainable products, intertwined with a deep understanding of different waste streams and how to transform them into valuable resources.
The Importance of Biodegradability and Certifications
Biodegradability is a term that often gets tossed around, but Pierre clarified its true meaning; biodegradable products break down naturally, but the specifics of where they break down (in soil, water, or industrial composters) are crucial.
"Certification is super important. We need to keep businesses honest if we want to make progress," he explained. Certifications ensure that biodegradable products decompose without leaving toxic residues, thus preventing harm to biodiversity and soil health. This point aligns with the broader issue of combating greenwashing and promoting transparency in environmental claims.
Tackling Microplastics
The conversation also touched upon the pervasive issue of microplastics. Pierre explained that these tiny plastic particles can be found everywhere - from the air we breathe to the food we eat. The health implications are significant, as microplastics can penetrate our cells and cause various health problems like intestinal and reproductive issues.
Addressing the root cause, Rainbow avoids the use of virgin plastics and instead opts for recycled materials. While this journey is far from easy, it represents a commitment to reducing plastic pollution and its associated health risks.
The Road to Adoption: Overcoming Challenges and Celebrating Successes
Introducing innovative, sustainable products into the market comes with its set of challenges. Pierre acknowledged short-term frictions and chaos but emphasised the importance of finding optimists and early adopters willing to embrace new technologies.
Among the many successful projects, Rainbow's biodegradable tree shelters have garnered significant recognition. They have been used in various notable projects, including the National Highways, which prioritises health and safety, and river restoration initiatives like the River Dee in Scotland.
Collaboration: The Key to Long-Term Success
Collaboration with like-minded organisations is essential. Pierre spoke highly of their partnership with Grown in Britain, led by Dougal Driver, a guest in episode 5 of our podcast series and a force in promoting British timber. Such collaborations foster a culture of field engagement and direct interaction with industry stakeholders, enhancing the adoption of sustainable practices.
Future Ambitions: Beyond the Horizon
Looking ahead, Rainbow aims to drive as much adoption as possible in both landscaping and forestry before expanding into other industries. "We're biodegradable first, recycling second," stated Pierre. The company is committed to continuously improving the sustainability of its products while recognising the role of plastics where appropriate.
By identifying and utilising various waste streams, Rainbow aims to minimise waste and enhance the efficiency and sustainability of production processes. This includes exploring more challenging recycling opportunities and promoting the use of materials close to waterways to prevent plastic pollution.
The Path Forward
Rainbow's journey is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of sustainability. Pierre's insights provide a clear roadmap for other businesses striving to make a positive environmental impact. As more companies adopt similar values and practices, the collective efforts will undoubtedly pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future. You can listen to the podcast episode by clicking on the link below.
