Wasoo
Acoustic Panels Made from Leftover Rice Straw
These innovative acoustic panels are crafted from leftover rice straw, using recycled paper pulp as a binder instead of glue. They are dyed with natural materials, and any leftover pieces can be soaked in water and used as fertilizer!
In many cases, agricultural waste is burned, contributing to air pollution and PM 2.5. In Chiang Mai, this issue is especially severe—during some seasons, Doi Suthep is barely visible through the haze.
WASOO, a brand originating from Chiang Mai that has firsthand experience with air pollution, came up with the idea to repurpose agricultural waste such as rice straw and coffee husks into vibrant interior decorative panels.
Environmental Benefits
- Rice Straw: Typically burned after harvest, rice straw is a significant source of PM 2.5 pollution, releasing up to 24.63 million tons of CO₂
- Coffee Husks: Approximately 100,000 tons of coffee husks are discarded as organic waste each year. While some are composted, much remains unused and wasted.
Features and Advantages
1. Functional and Sustainable:
- The panels not only enhance aesthetics but also provide acoustic insulation and temperature regulation, leading to energy savings and reduced electricity costs.
- Made from natural materials, they are fire-resistant and termite-proof.
2. Zero Waste Philosophy:
- Part of the “From Zero 2 Zero” collection, these panels use no new raw materials and leave no waste at the end of their lifecycle.
- Fully biodegradable and recyclable, they align with the principles of sustainability.
Natural Dyeing Process
- The panels are dyed using natural herbs like ebony fruit and sappanwood.
- After dyeing, they are shaped and patterned using recycled paper pulp as a binder, avoiding synthetic adhesives.
- Other colorful collections use herbs such as indigo, sappanwood, and pecan, which can be mixed to create a broader range of colors.
The San Poo Lei community
located in Doi Saket District, Chiang Mai Province, is an ancient community with a unique lifestyle, local culture, and abundant natural resources