Liofyllo Social Cooperative Enterprise (Greece)
Liofyllo is a term in Greek that translates to "olive leaf," and the olive tree is deeply intertwined with the culture and history of the Mediterranean, particularly in Greece. The olive tree symbolizes not just sustenance but also tradition and identity in the region. However, during the olive oil production process, it is estimated that over 150,000 tons of olive leaves are discarded each year.
Liofyllo aims to address this issue by adopting circular economy principles, creating innovative and eco-friendly materials from these untapped olive leaves. This initiative represents a significant step toward environmental protection and sustainability.
Liofyllo utilizes these innovative materials as alternatives to environmentally harmful products, such as plastics and wooden panels. So far, they have produced two distinct types of panels: Welia, which resembles wood, and Marelia, which mimics marble. Additionally, Liofyllo processes damaged panels from production, transforming them into unique works of art. This approach not only helps reduce waste but also highlights the potential for creative reuse in addressing environmental challenges.
Beyond its environmental mission, Liofyllo plays an active role in social impact and women's empowerment. The leadership team consists of six women with diverse backgrounds and expertise, promoting inclusivity and diversity within the organization. Furthermore, Liofyllo organizes various workshops aimed at raising ecological awareness in local communities. These workshops serve to educate participants about sustainability and environmental issues while also contributing to the empowerment of women in the community.
Liofyllo integrates nine of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into its operations, thereby creating a broad social and environmental impact. These goals include quality education, gender equality, responsible consumption and production, climate action, and life on land. Through various projects and initiatives, Liofyllo seeks to enhance its influence both locally and internationally, driving positive change and fostering a more sustainable future.
