Friday—Food And Fashion:
USELESS.org: Use Less, Give More

June 26, 2009 Written by Connie Wu

In a world of disposable everything, USELESS.org has a unique mission: start using less, and start giving more.

Created by Mark Simmons, a former consultant for Al Gore’s Alliance for Climate Protection, and Kathy Fletcher, who has extensive experience in non-profits and human rights advocacy, USELESS aims to produce items that leave as little impact on the environment as possible – from the 100% post-consumer packaging to manufacturing all of the items in the U.S.

In addition, 10% of the profits from the purchase of USELESS products go to charities like Wherever the Need, a non-profit that helps provide water supply to underserved countries worldwide.

Items available for purchase include organic tees, the BPA-free USELESS Water Bottle ($15), which encourages people to use less disposable water bottles, and the USELESS Utility Tote ($40), made of recycled advertising billboards.

One of the most provocative products is a handmade recycled stainless steel “USELESS” Logo Stencil ($40) - so you can brand your own items as “USELESS”. In addition, you can also purchase Earth – made of 100% nothing ($25) - 100% of the amount goes to water and sanitation projects.