The ubiquitous little fish-shaped soy sauce containers, a staple of sushi culture, have become an environmental nemesis. Angus Ware, a designer based in Sydney, noticed the plastic waste that accompanied his weekly sushi takeout. These fish-shaped containers, known as shoyu-tai, are a symbol of the post-World War II plastics boom and have since become a global environmental concern. Ware's observation of the littered streets and waterways of inner Sydney sparked a mission to find a sustainable alternative.
The Environmental Impact
The issue extends beyond the cute fish-shaped containers. Plastic sachets for ginger and wasabi, often accompanying sushi, constitute an even larger environmental problem. With global consumption estimated at 855 billion to 1 trillion sachets annually, it's clear that our addiction to single-use plastics is a significant challenge.
A Designer's Dilemma
Ware and his business partner, Jeffrey Simpson, faced a design challenge. Shoyu-tai, despite their environmental drawbacks, are a beloved and functional design. The goal was to retain the appeal and joy these little fish bring while addressing the unsustainable material.
A Sustainable Solution
The answer lay in bagasse, a byproduct of sugar production. This fibrous material, when pulped and blended with food-safe wax, creates a liquid-resistant, biodegradable alternative. The final product, Holy Carp!, mimics the traditional fish-shaped container with a container-and-lid design. Users squeeze the fish's belly to dispense soy sauce through a tiny hole in the lid.
The Future of Sustainable Sushi
Ware is optimistic about the adoption of Holy Carp! by sushi consumers. He believes people want to make sustainable choices and that providing intuitive, joyful alternatives is key. While the production cost is higher than traditional plastic shoyu-tai, the price is comparable to other non-plastic alternatives, making it a viable commercial option.
A Broader Perspective
The story of Holy Carp! is a testament to the power of design thinking and innovation in tackling environmental challenges. It highlights the importance of considering the entire lifecycle of a product, from its appeal and functionality to its environmental impact. As we strive for a more sustainable future, initiatives like this offer a glimmer of hope and a path forward.
