Sustainable Rugs UK
Natural elegance and ethical craftsmanship for your home
The Story Behind Our Banana Fibre Rugs
Banana fibre is a remarkable material that brings together sustainability, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Harvested from the stems of banana plants after fruiting, banana fibre is a by-product that would otherwise go to waste. Our process transforms this renewable resource into exquisite rugs that highlight the beauty of natural fibres.
The process begins in banana plantations in Kenya. Once bananas are harvested, artisans collect the stalks and extract the long, silky fibres by hand. This method eliminates the need for harmful chemicals, reducing environmental impact and preserving the natural strength of the fibres.
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Crafted by Skilled Artisans in Kenya
The story of our banana fibre rugs is also the story of the skilled craftspeople in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. Their weaving expertise has been refined over generations, blending traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities. Each rug is unique, reflecting the skill and creativity of its maker.
Our partnership with these communities ensures fair wages and ethical working conditions. Supporting Ziada’s rugs means supporting these artisans, helping to preserve traditional weaving practices and improve livelihoods in rural Kenya.
Why Choose Banana Fibre Rugs?
Banana fibre rugs are not only sustainable but also versatile and premium. Their natural sheen and warm tones add a refined yet earthy touch to any interior space. They blend effortlessly with various décor styles, from rustic to modern, creating a balanced and inviting atmosphere.
These rugs are particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas. The fibres are known for their strength and flexibility, making them resilient to daily wear. Their smooth, soft texture ensures they remain comfortable underfoot, even in busy living rooms or entryways.
Another notable advantage is their low maintenance. Unlike synthetic rugs that require chemical cleaning, banana fibre rugs need only simple care to stay in excellent condition. A gentle shake or a quick pass with a vacuum keeps them looking fresh and vibrant.
Banana Fibre vs. Jute:
Understanding the Difference
| Feature | Banana Fibre Rugs | Jute Rugs |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Made from banana plant stalks, using a by-product of banana farming | Fast-growing crop, used directly for fibre production |
| Durability | Strong and flexible, ideal for busy spaces | Durable but prone to becoming brittle with heavy use |
| Texture & Comfort | Smooth and soft texture, comfortable underfoot | Coarse, can be rough and scratchy |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean and resistant to stains and moisture | Absorbs moisture, making it harder to keep clean |
| Appearance | Lustrous finish, offers a sophisticated and natural look | Rustic appearance, limited in design and colour options |
Banana Fibre Rugs: A Circular Economy Approach
Sustainable practices are at the heart of Ziada Solutions. By using banana fibre, we support a circular economy that values resource efficiency and waste reduction. The banana plant is widely cultivated in Kenya, and its stalks are typically discarded after fruiting. Turning these stalks into beautiful rugs gives them a new purpose and reduces environmental waste.
Banana fibre’s low water and chemical requirements also make it an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic or chemically processed fibres. The result is a rug that’s biodegradable and kind to the environment, aligning with the principles of conscious living and ethical consumption.
How to Care for Your Banana Fibre Rug
Banana fibre rugs require minimal upkeep, which is another reason why they’re a practical choice for busy households. Regular shaking or light vacuuming removes loose dirt and keeps the fibres fresh. In case of spills, gently blot the area with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh cleaning agents to preserve the natural fibres. Keeping your rug dry also prevents any long-term issues.
Supporting Sustainability and Local Communities
When you choose a banana fibre rug from Ziada Solutions, you’re doing more than enhancing your home. You’re also supporting sustainable livelihoods for weavers in Kenya and promoting environmentally friendly practices.
This connection to both people and the planet is at the core of what we do. Beautiful design and social responsibility can go hand in hand, creating homes that feel good in every sense.
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Empowering Women & Farmers
Ziada Craft is committed to empowering women through economic
opportunities. We prioritise transparency and oversee all aspects of
our homeware brand made from banana fibres, including the sourcing
of raw materials and the production process, to ensure sustainability
throughout the value chain.
Working with us means making a positive social and environmental
impact.
Our social impact
• We provide reliable income for small-scale farmers and women from local
marginalised communities through trade and market access
• We purchase stems from the Taita-Taveta Banana Cooperative Society,
supporting around 1,500 farmers by providing them with a fair price for their
produce, thus generating income for them
• Our processing facility currently employs 7 individuals, all between the
ages of 18-25, with 43% being women, while our workshop employs 10 women
Our environmental impact
• Our value chain is fully circular, and we aim to protect the environment and
restore the soil
• By removing banana waste stems, we are taking a proactive approach to
reduce air pollution caused by burning
• Part of the stems not used for fibres are being turned into banana paper,
which is used for packaging and hang-tags: we reduce waste creating a
new product that helps to decrease the demand for traditional paper
• The waste pulp from creating banana paper is turned into a liquid
slurry. This slurry is sold back to farmers as a soil improver, contributing to
sustainable agriculture practices.