The winter 2013 edition of the New York International Gift Fair will showcase new eco-friendly home, lifestyle and gift products through the Fair’s SustainAbility: design for a better world program. Since 2007, this green initiative has combined a juried product display, awards for distinctive design and an educational session addressing sustainable and socially responsible business practices. 

“NYIGF’s SustainAbility display is a global representation of innovative, multi-category resources,” said Christian Falkenberg, NYIGF director and vp of GLM, the show organizer.  “From an amazing array of media, these products have been created for use both indoors and out, in every room of the house.” 

The SustainAbility display, curated by Ilene Shaw of Shaw + Co! Productions, will feature approximately 100 products from 75 NYIGF exhibitors approved for participation, January 26-29, 2013 at New York City’s Jacob K. Javits Convention Center.  

Among the products selected for the winter 2013 SustainAbility exhibit are: driftwood wall hooks by Areaware crafted from wood salvaged from New York State beaches; the “Archival Perfect Settings” placemat pads by Cake Vintage Table & Home with 50 tear-off sheets made of 100% recycled kraft paper and soy based inks; the Eco Teether by Greenpoint Brands made from biodegradable, plant-based resin; “Dawn Redwood Tree-to-Be” growing kit made of recycled materials by Potting Shed Creations, Ltd.; and macramé bowls by Shiraleah which are handmade in India of jute and recycled metal wire.

In addition to eco-friendly and socially responsible products, the display also will showcase sustainable materials and production processes from a selection of exhibitors in Artisan Resource, a new GLM-managed tradeshow matching artisanal craft producers and production resources with U.S.-based volume importers, direct import retailers and wholesalers, which runs concurrently with NYIGF at the Passenger Ship Terminal’s Pier 92.  

Retailers will also be invited to cast Eco Choice Awards ballots online in advance of market week. From December 1 through January 4, retailers can visit www.giftshopmag.com/votegreen and vote for their favorite products in three categories: “Most Innovative,” “Most Sensitive Use of Materials” and “Most Sellable.”

A related educational program, titled “Locally Made – A Catalyst for Innovation in Sustainability,” will be presented on Monday, January 28, from 12 Noon to 1:30 p.m.