Eco-Friendly Grads Help Make Green the New Black

The eco-friendly Green Movement is in full swing and FIDM Alumni are doing their part to contribute to the health of our planet. In June, Interior Design and International Manufacturing & Product Development Grad James Saavedra, who was a designer on the second season of TLC's Clean Sweep and writes the Décor Fellow blog, and his partner Kelly LaPlante launched JAK a new Art Deco- and Hollywood Regency-inspired handcrafted furnishings line with an environmentally sustainable twist.

"Our motivation is that when we took a look at the existing green furniture available to designers we recognized there was something missing," says James. "I believe it is imperative, now more than ever, for us to take a good hard look at our habits and how they are effecting the world in which we live."

One of the first FIDM Graduates to work in the green industry, Alison K. Pollack, started Earth Friendly Interior Design the same year she graduated, with a goal of creating a healthier environment by using alternative materials. (Pictured at right, one of Alison Pollack's interiors.)

“For the first time there is a connection being made between planet sustainability, health issues with chemical overload, and climate change,” says Alison, who also designs Suite Baby, an organic nursery line. “The amazing sense of gratification that the contribution I made, no matter how great or small, preserves something greater than myself.”

Other FIDM Alumni are also making waves in the movement. Fashion Design Grad Karen Kananen founded Raw Earth & Wild Sky, a sustainable style company that features handmade clothing. Based in L.A., the eco-friendly label uses 100% organic cotton and low impact dyes.

Fellow Fashion Design Alumni and friends Rebecca Eliason and Debra Weaver launched Re-Dewin, a line of recycled vintage clothing, this year. (Pictured at left, a vintage look from Re-Dewin.) And this year, Product Development Graduate Tika Shenghur ‘04 launched Teek Design Studios, a line of creative and contemporary green stationery.