Konbu skincare pilots circular product line with Canadian manufacturer
Olivia Giannotti, Founder & CEO of Konbu
Olivia is a first time founder based in Victoria, BC who recently graduated from University of Victoria.
She was accepted into the Circular Innovation Accelerator after working on her business, Konbu, for roughly 1 year. Her goal is to address a prevalent issue within the self-care and skincare industry - the pervasive presence of harmful formulations and wasteful packaging adding to the landfill
“I am frustrated by unsustainable corporate practices that pollute our planet and questionable chemicals evident in mainstream skincare. Konbu adopting more sustainable business operations aspires to go beyond conventional approaches within the industry by adopting a closed loop/circular strategy for an effective end of product life recycling process. We firmly believe that the responsibility for end-of-product life recycling should rest with the business rather than solely on the consumer. In pursuit of this vision, a strategic partnership with a facility to ensure proper recycling of products would be ideal from circular model perspective.”
Why did you apply for the Circular Innovation Accelerator?
Involvement in the Circular Innovation Accelerator will not only contribute to the growth of Konbu, but also play a crucial role in advancing Toronto, Canada towards a more circular economy. Konbu formulations will be manufactured and packaged locally, actively contributing to the city's economic development. With a commitment to a circular economy, Konbu aims to minimize waste and resource consumption in the self care industry.
What help were you looking for when you applied to the Circular Innovation Accelerator?
Securing sustainable and circular packaging materials has posed an initial obstacle, requiring extensive research and collaboration with suppliers to align to our circular goals. The minimum order quantity for sustainable customized packaging is additionally very high, requiring significant capital. Furthermore, navigating regulatory frameworks and various municipality recycling regulations presented complexities when striving to adopt circular packaging (each municipality in Canada has different requirements on what they will and will not accept for local recycling).
Now that you’re in it, how has the Circular Innovation Accelerator helped grow Company?
The Circular Innovation Accelerator has greatly fortified Konbu by deepening my sales knowledge and refining my project management skills. This program has not only expanded my business network in Canada, but also provided valuable insights into sustainable packaging materials. The accelerator has been pivotal in advancing our mission at Konbu and enhancing our overall business strategy.