The term ‘Made in Australia’ is deceptively complex.
If you were to import oranges from South America, and transform them into orange juice in Australia, you can get the ‘Made in Australia’ logo. Very technically, it is made in Australia, but probably not in the sense you were hoping. There is no farmer in Queensland getting any money in his back pocket from you buying that particular product.
It can all get a bit confusing, which is why we have a simple solution: Buy products that are clearly designed by Australians and manufactured by Australian companies. That way, you are keeping everything within our shores. Whilst it is not always that simple, and there are many great products made beyond our shores. Where possible, Koh Living always opts for Australian made products. After all, we are an Australian country who loves nothing more than to give back to Australian artists.
Koh Living is proud to support everyday working Australians by employing exclusively homegrown designers, with a special focus on Indigenous artists.Co-founder and Dreamer. of Koh Living, Tui Cordemans believes that Aboriginal art is the most beautiful in the world, and believes in showcasing these talented creatives to as many people as possible. Tui also ensures that a percentage of every single sale goes directly to the artist themselves, so in shopping with Koh, you become a patron for an exciting new Aboriginal artist.
Additionally, buying Australian designed and produced products is the sustainable choice. By reducing the amount of overseas shipments and the double handling of products, Koh is reducing its carbon footprint. If it is made nearby, it doesn’t have to travel far to get to you.
These two values underpin everything that happens at Koh Living and the products we chose to stock. Here are just a handful of our products that reflect the values of sustainability and buying local.
Candles
These hand poured candles feature the breathtaking work of Jacinta-Rai Ridgeway-Maahs. When you inhale the subtle scent of native frangipani, you are truly breathing in something fundamentally Australian. The aroma is calming and tranquil on its own, but there is something deeply replenishing in knowing that it is sustainably produced and supporting the Australian artistic community.
Notebooks
These are the perfect thing for the introspective thinkers among us, who love to jot things out by hand or sketch something that inspires them. The chances are that this type of person will also appreciate a product that is ethically produced. Again, the designs of all of our notebooks are produced by Australian artists. When it comes to sustainability, the pages are 100% recycled paper. Not one tree has been felled in order to produce the unique notebook, and the best part is, it can be recycled and given a new lease of life when you are finished.
Coasters
It is a joyous experience when quality and sustainability go hand in hand. These hardwood coasters have been created from sustainably sourced timber. Rather than clearing rainforests, these trees have been planted and milled in such a way that it becomes a sustainable practice. The plantation then shuffles through different fields to allow the ground to recover before they are re-planted and the process continues. There are no toxic chemicals involved, and use only Greenguard Gold Certified ink. Your table will have a touch of elegance and class, and it didn’t cost the earth in the process.
These are but a few of our products that reflect our values. Ultimately, when you buy from Koh Living, you are getting the highest quality product, supporting Australian Artists, and doing so in a way that is more sustainable.
It’s good for you, good for the country and good for the world.