The product of scientists, engineers and designers from around the globe, EcoGenTM is a revolutionary new polymer called PHBV (poly-3-hydroxy butyrate-co-valerate). First developed by British scientists in the late 1980s, recent patented improvements in the fermentation technology have allowed for the cost-effective production of PHBV.

How is EcoGen created?
To create EcoGen, naturally occurring bacteria are fed sugar obtained from corn starch. These bacteria or “bugs” digest the sugar and store the resulting PHBV much as a human body would store fat. Extracted from the “bug,” the stored PHBV can then be used as an injected-molded material.

How is EcoGen used in the creation of product?
After the PHBV, or Enmat®, is naturally extracted, it is then blended with other biodegradable compounds to enhance its ability to process efficiently in standard injection molding machines. Design Ideas® is the first company to utilize EcoGen plastic in the production of homegoods – the EcoGen Bath Line.

What is the EcoGen Bath Line?
The new product line features all the essentials you need for accessorizing your bathroom, including a toothbrush holder, bath box, bath cup, pump dispenser, soap dish, and bath bin. The line is available in white, green, black and blue and provides a stylish and eco-friendly solution for eco-conscious consumers.

How long will my EcoGen bath accessories last?
Although EcoGen products are completely biodegradable, they will not lose shape or function in the average home environment. When you are prepared to throw away your bathroom accessories, you can rest assured you’re adding no harm to the environment as EcoGen products will biodegrade in six to nine months when composted.

How long do my average bath accessories last?
When you dispose of your average plastic bath accessories, they will exist indefinitely in a landfill.

Who buys green products such as EcoGen?
According to Mintel Reports, 12 percent of consumers said they purchase green products all of the time, while another 66 percent said they might choose products that conserve the environment over others (Intellitrends 2007 poll). Beyond that, 46 percent of people say they would visit a retailer more if it was environmentally friendly and 47 percent would pay more for their products (Roper Reports and Maritz Research Poll).

Where can I buy EcoGen products?
The new EcoGen Bath Line is being launched exclusively at The Container Store in April and will be available at a variety of retailers in June. For a complete list of retailers that carry Design Ideas’ product, please visit www.designideas.net or www.EcoGenLife.com.

How much do EcoGen products cost?
EcoGen bath accessories are available from approximately $7 to $30.