Focus on people. Focus on impact.
The exploitation of people for consumer goods is an ethical issue that can affect many consumers. We are often unaware of the conditions under which the products we buy are produced.
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Therefore, our concepts aim to support local artisans and families in order to promote independence and prosperity.
And in order to have the greatest possible direct and large social impact, we work closely with various non-profit organizations and manufacturers.
Proud member of
1% for the Planet
VANA donates 1% of its annual turnover to support where support is most needed.
"1% for the planet represents a global network of companies, individuals and nonprofits addressing the planet's most pressing environmental issues."
VANA & CREATIVELEARNING.ORG
A PARTNERSHIP WITH A FUTURE
VANA has been working with the non-profit organization "Creative Learning" in Latin America since the beginning.
"Creative Learning works in overlooked areas to support locally led initiatives. We share knowledge through people-to-people partnerships and sustainably improve lives and livelihoods. Our four departments each offer unique expertise and work together towards our goal of creating a more peaceful world."
For a long future
Sustainable concepts
Each of our partners and producers has their own valuable concepts.
The mouth-blown glasses from Latin America are made from 95% recycled glass and partially heated using reused cooking oil from the catering industry.
The tables and chairs are sourced regionally and sustainably from local forests in Bavaria.
Using traditional methods, the plant-dyed clothes are dyed in an environmentally friendly way.
So everyone contributes their part.
COOPERATION WITH
NON-PROFIT ORGANISATIONS
In addition to Creative Learning, we work with non-profit organizations in Latin America whose goal is to guarantee prosperity and independence in southern villages.
An example: our plant-dyed clothing is handwoven by over 400 different families in a traditional way and with love.
Wearing handwoven clothing is therefore not only a fashion statement, but also a sign of solidarity and a sense of responsibility.
piece by piece
Sustainability in details
In every area possible, our goal is to keep our carbon footprint as low as possible and to be part of a better tomorrow.
Would you like some examples?
We use DHL and their CO2 offsetting GoGreen program to ship the packages and make CO2 offsets for every PERC certified flyer that comes with our packages. Our stickers on tissue paper are biodegradable.
Trust needs
transparency
We want to offer full transparency. Therefore, you will find an overview of sources, procedures and background information here.
We have gone through a long development process with each of our manufacturers to ensure that the cooperation is fruitful and long-term and that the quality, materials and values are maintained.
We have known each of our manufacturers personally for many years and are in close contact with them to implement further improvements.
Clothing
Source: Mexico
Manufacturer: Non-Profit Organizations
Process: 100% handwoven, 100% plant dyed
Values
Strengthening the common good and local economy
Independence and prosperity for manufacturing families in rural areas
Involving the Elders
Promoting relationships within families, communities and the land.
Improving community health and sustainability through innovative public works.
decoration
Source: Mexico
Manufacturer: Non-Profit Organizations
Process: 100% handwoven. Material depending on the product (see product page)
Values
They create economic opportunities for vulnerable artisan groups around the world through their integrated approach to product development, business skills training, market access and environmentally friendly processes. Environmentally friendly practices are the foundation of their methodology. They achieve this by working with local partners in local markets and leaving behind an infrastructure that supports the artisan community long after the mentoring has concluded.
A second division runs short- and long-term educational programs abroad that combine service, academic and practical experience.
Another department strengthens the capacity of civil society human rights organizations to respond to human rights violations by increasing their security and promoting cooperation with the government and raising awareness of social and individual human rights through outreach and education.
The fourth area is based on the fundamental belief that education can mitigate violent conflict. The Institute develops comprehensive training programs, promotes scientific research, and supports efforts to raise public awareness of peace and security issues.
to shine
Source: Mexico
Manufacturer: Local designers and workshops
Process: Lampshades 100% handmade in various workshops in Mexico with local materials. Electronic components manufactured and assembled in Germany.
Values
Made by an artisanal lighting workshop in Mexico specializing in the design of decorative lights, which handcrafts unique lamps using traditional techniques, local artisans and local materials such as hammered copper, clay, natural fibers and hand-blown glass.
Glasses
Source: Mexico
Manufacturer: Local manufacturer with own kilns
Process: 100% mouth-blown, 95% recycled glass
Values
In this workshop, the artisanal mouth-blowing technique creates pieces of unique and original design, produced through a sustainable and artisanal process.
To reduce energy consumption, the ovens are partly powered by recycled, burned cooking oil from local hotels and restaurants.
Pricing
A number of factors are taken into account when determining the price. A large part of the price is, of course, the fair wages of the craftsmen. But design development, marketing, customer support, logistics and storage also have to be taken into account.
Our goal is to be able to make a valuable contribution to this system in a sustainable and long-term way. Therefore, our focus is clearly not on the cheapest price, but on the best overall package. From paying the craftsmen properly to a fabulous shopping experience to the point where you can express your personality even more with wonderful, handmade products.