Our top picks for ingenious and beautiful eco-friendly lights

In the quest to reduce our carbon footprint as well as improve our living environments, small choices matter. These beautiful lights not only reduce their impact during the manufacturing process (read: renewable energy, less waste and toxins) but are made from eco-friendly and/or recycled materials.

SOLSTICE

This collection by Luminaire Authentik is made with found objects that artist Jeremy Le Chatelier collects at waste facilities and construction sites. The result is a series of sculptural, one-of-a-kind pieces inspired by wabi-sabi – appreciating the materials’ imperfections. From $980, at Luminaire Authentik.

ECHO

Toronto-based brand Aaline combines architectural lighting with acoustic systems, all made with locally sourced, zero-plastic materials – a rarity for acoustic products, which are often made of plastic felt. Its facility uses only renewable energy sourced within the region, so the whole process is kind to the Earth.  Price upon request, at Aaline.

SCRAPLIGHTS

The aptly named Scraplights by Graypants are made of recycled corrugated cardboard, precision-cut with a laser to form intricate designs, then assembled by hand using a non-toxic adhesive. Just don’t let your cat anywhere near them. From $655, at LightForm.

HOZUKI

Inspired by the lantern flower, Elte’s pendant is formed completely out of paper, without any metal construction, thus reducing its carbon footprint. It’s also free of VOCs, so the air in your home will be cleaner, too. From $1565, at Elte.