OutABox Brings in the Wins

Gayle Blanchflower from OutABox received this year's Best Environmental Product Award at the recent British Female Inventors and Innovators awards ceremony. Gayle's range of outdoor furniture, made from 85 per cent recycled board, was judged to be the best product incorporating environmentally friendly materials. The collection, including a parasol, drinks cooler and table, is designed to fold down and fit inside the ground seat, making it easy to transport and store and ideal for the camping as well as home. Not only is the range 100 per cent biodegradable and recyclable, but also the environmental impact of the production process and distribution is minimised by local deliveries from licensed manufacturers. It is also possible to brand the items with a corporate message, which increases their appeal. Debbie Morris, Director of Corporate Relations for London Remade explains: "Competition in the environment category was tough which shows the fast growing opportunities available in the green marketplace."

This is the third award the collection has received, picking up two Gold medals at the recent British Invention Show for Invention of the Year and the David Nicholas Design Award for 2006. With OutABox also being granted licensing agreements in both Australia and North America, the potential for environmentally friendly products is clear.

Gayle Blanchflower commented of her win: "The recognition and endorsement our products are receiving confirms the popularity of sustainable products. Incorporating sustainable elements into any product can improve its marketability whilst helping the planet. I am excited to be leading the way in sustainable design and hope others will soon follow."

Grants through the Enhanced Capital Fund may be available for designers wishing to incorporate sustainable elements into their designs. For more information, visit: www.enhancelondon.co.uk