Recycling Factory in Helsinki, May 7-8th, 2011

Finnish design: the eco approach takes over Helsinki’s Cable FactoryThe Recycling Factory, held May 7-8^th in Helsinki, is an event promoting two central trends of contemporary Finnish lifestyle: ecological and sustainability issues together with innovative design. The family friendly event consists of a sales market and a free-of-charge market along with workshops and shows.The sales market features some 50 pioneering Finnish companies presenting clothes, jewellery, bags and interior design items made of recycled materials. Organic food products are available and ecological approaches to energy, beauty and nutrition will also be represented.The free-of-charge market operates on a “bring & take” principle; throughout the weekend, you can bring clothes, toys, books and household goods that are fit for use. You can take with you anything you need.Do-it-yourself workshops engage both adults and children in creative activities, offering a chance for making jewellery, clothes and other items out of recycled materials.Fashion shows and demonstrations of handicraft and other small works from recycled materials will be held.The Recycling Factory, held now for the fourth consecutive year, attracted 7 500 visitors last year. With eco issues and awareness on the rise globally, many more are expected to attend this year’s event at the Cable Factory in Ruoholahti, central Helsinki. The venue is nationally known for hosting a range of cultural events.The Recycling Factory is open on Saturday May7^th and Sunday 8^th from 10am to 5pm with free admission. Please note that only cash is accepted as a payment method.Exhibitors include:Ainokainen,  a Finnish ecological design company specializing in clothes and jewellery. http://www.aino-kainen.com/english/index_eng.htmlMifuko, makers of sandals and bags, who spice Scandinavian design with an African twist, and cooperate with African artisans on a Fair Trade basis. http://www.mifuko.fi/en/Punainen Norsu (“Red Elephant”) designs retro-styled clothes for kids out of recycled and ecological materials. http://www.punainennorsu.com/en_index.htmlFor more information on the event, please visit: http://www.kierratystehdas.fi/front-page/A complete list of exhibitors: http://www.kierratystehdas.fi/sales-market-2/Accommodation in Helsinki: http://www.helsinki.fi/en/index/matkailu/majoitus.htmlFor information about travel in Finland, go to www.visitfinland.com Contact:Helena NiskanenVisit Finland USATel. +1-917-863-5484helena.niskanen@visitfinland.com