The Story Behind the Best-Selling Sustainable Innovations at the V&A Waterfront

In a world where conscious consumerism is gaining momentum, sustainability is increasingly shaping the future of our neighbourhoods. The V&A Waterfront, as the country’s top tourist destination as well as home to an extensive consumer retail shopping ecosystem, has been on a long journey of transformation, with a special focus on energy efficiency, waste management, and carbon reduction.

Mindful to expand the platform for its sustainability ambitions, the Waterfront has kicked off its Our Better Nature campaign this winter, a call to action that invites tenants at the V&A to collectively prioritise the environment and, with us, join hands in making a meaningful change to business as usual.

Here’s how some of the V&A Waterfront’s tenants are making a difference:

MORS Design:

***Turning waste into worth(great profile for women’s month)*

Specialising in slow fashion, MORS Design is committed to sustainability through innovative recycling practices. They turn ethically sourced mohair from the Karoo into stylish jerseys and transform discarded tyre tubes into high-quality fashion bags. Collaborating with women from local townships, MORS Design adopts a zero-waste approach.

Their best-selling statement jersey, is crafted from leftover wool, showcasing their dedication to reducing waste. Founder, Raihana Govender, reflects, “My parents’ legacy in the fight for the freedom of South Africa profoundly influenced my upbringing. It inspired me to empower communities through ethical sourcing, circular economy practices, and job creation.”

Pienaar & Sons:

Shifting consumer behaviour

This boutique distillery in Makers Landing produces gin, vodka, and whisky with a focus on local sourcing and sustainable practices. “Choosing clever materials and sourcing them locally makes our sustainability journey both achievable and enjoyable,” says master distiller Andre Pienaar.

The “Ugly Gin” brand epitomises their innovative approach, using reclaimed materials and recyclable cans to challenge consumer perceptions and highlight their commitment to sustainability. “We combined fun with a challenge to customers’ views by using the cheapest bottles, repurposed off-cuts, and hand-stamped labels. It was about getting our consumers to ask themselves what matters the most, the bottle or the liquid. This approach has resonated well with our customers, making it our best-seller.”

Simply Bee:

Going back to basics, naturally

Based in Hopefield on the West Coast, Simply Bee promotes bee conservation and the benefits of natural bee wax. Their handcrafted products, free from synthetic chemicals and machinery, support local job creation and community empowerment. What began as just five products has grown into a range of 120 products.

“Our products contain no synthetic chemicals or parabens. By remaining local and handmade, we not only ensure product purity but also support job creation and community empowerment,”

Wellness Warehouse:

Diverting 100% of food waste, through composting

As a leading eco-friendly retailer, Wellness Warehouse emphasises sustainability through composting, sustainable packaging, and education. Their approach to incremental changes and environmental impact aligns with the V&A Waterfront’s broader goals. “Sustainability is about embodying a deep connection to our intrinsic well-being,” says Olivia Badach, Group Head of Organisational Development at Wellness Warehouse. “Composting represents a crucial mindset shift. By making small, actionable changes at home, we can collectively make a significant difference. Thanks to our composting initiatives and partnerships, we successfully divert 100% of our food waste from landfills into the composting cycle.”

Knysna Oyster Company:

The Knysna Oyster Company offers more than just premium oysters and seafood. Their eco-friendly practices include a water purification system that has eliminated the need for over 30,000 single-use bottles annually.

Additionally, the restaurant’s design, with a focus on minimising waste and using repurposed wood for furniture, underscores their commitment to sustainable design.

“From pioneering water conservation techniques to sustainable design and ethical manufacturing, the Waterfront exemplifies how businesses and communities can unite to build a greener, healthier world,” says [insert V&A spokesperson name and title] from the V&A Waterfront.

Master Distiller Andre Pienaar adds, “If you search for recycled chairs online, practical solutions are scarce. However, with just three WhatsApp messages within the V&A Waterfront business community, I can source them by the same afternoon.” To learn more about the V&A Waterfront’s sustainability initiatives and discover how you can contribute, visit the V&A Waterfront’s Our Better Nature Campaign and download the Do-Good Guide