Exhibiting at IFEX Philippines 2025

Junk Not! is a Philippine-based social enterprise that transforms plastic waste and textile scraps into high-quality upcycled furniture, homeware, and fashion accessories. Operating from Biñan, Laguna, the company blends sustainability with artisan craftsmanship, promoting circular design principles and community empowerment.

Company Overview

Founded by Wilhelmina “Willie” S. Garcia, an award-winning eco-designer and environmental advocate, Junk Not! began as a grassroots design movement. It has since evolved into a Manufacturer and Direct Exporter recognized internationally for its creative reuse of waste and inclusive partnerships with local communities.

The enterprise integrates indigenous weaving techniques and contemporary design to craft sustainable products from post-consumer waste. Every item is handmade and helps divert waste from landfills while supporting sustainable livelihoods for women and rural artisans.

Product Portfolio

Junk Not! offers a wide range of eco-conscious products:

• Furniture:

  • Beach Bummer Chair
  • Jeepney Bar Stool
  • Buttons Stool
  • Woven Benches, Tables, Lounge Chairs

• Homeware:

  • Upcycled lampshades, placemats, mats, throw pillows

• Fashion & Accessories:

  • Handwoven bags, wallets, decor pieces

Materials used include:

• Recovered plastic wrappers, sachets, and upholstery offcuts
• Bamboo and reclaimed wood
• Hand-twined plastic cordage woven into durable surfaces

Each piece is one-of-a-kind, reflecting both the material’s origin and the artisan’s craft.

Certifications & Recognition

• Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label (Switzerland)
• Part of Roots Collective Philippines
• Registered with the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
• Products featured in Manila FAME and Maison&Objet Paris

Export & Market Footprint

Junk Not! has achieved growing success in global artisan and sustainable design markets:

• Export destinations include France, Japan, Australia, and the U.S.

• Products have been showcased in:

  • Maison&Objet Paris
  • EcoExpo Asia (Hong Kong)
  • UN SDG Pavilion

• Primary buyers include:

  • Eco-conscious retailers
  • Interior designers and architectural firms
  • Boutique hotels and social enterprise platforms

Estimated export sales:

• Approx. ₱2–3 million/year (~USD 35,000–55,000)
• Small-batch, high-value orders focused on artisan design and sustainability

Target Market

• Interior designers and architectural firms focused on sustainable interiors
• Green hotels and restaurants
• Environmentally conscious consumers
• NGOs, museums, and global development platforms

Their clients appreciate the brand's fusion of design integrity, ethical sourcing, and environmental impact.

Manufacturing Capabilities

• Workshop location: Biñan, Laguna
• Community-based production:
  • Weaving clusters trained in plastic rope twisting
  • Reclaimed wood carpenters
• Processes:
  • Collection and sanitation of plastic waste
  • Rope-making and dyeing
  • Traditional weaving and manual assembly

Production is small-scale, handcrafted, and made-to-order, aligning with sustainable slow design principles.

Unique Selling Propositions

• Zero Waste Design: Converts 1,000+ kg of plastic annually into usable goods
• Women-Centered Production: Partners with marginalized women and indigenous artisans
• Culturally Rooted: Blends Filipino craftsmanship with modern eco-design
• Award-Winning Eco Design Brand: Recognized globally for social and environmental innovation

Customer Testimonials

“Junk Not! redefines waste. Their pieces are thoughtful, sustainable, and incredibly artistic.”
— Interior Designer, Maison&Objet Paris Delegate

“Our café’s centerpiece bar stools from Junk Not! are now a talking point among our guests.”
— Sustainable Café Owner, Sydney

Achievements & Recognition

• Featured by CNN Philippines, ABS-CBN News, and Rappler
• Recipient of Solar Impulse Efficient Solution Label for sustainable innovation
• Exhibited in Maison&Objet Paris, Manila FAME, and UN SDG Pavilion
• Over 10 women-led weaving clusters empowered
• Diverted over 5 tons of waste from landfills since founding

Junk Not! represents the power of design-led environmental transformation, turning what was once considered trash into globally admired artisanal masterpieces while empowering communities and protecting the planet.