Plastic pollution is one of the most persistent pollutants on the planet and a leading cause of global warming. Some researchers predict that by 2050, we will have more plastic in the ocean than fishes. Alarming, right? And that’s only the tip of the iceberg.
There’s no better time to be more environmental conscious. Agreed, this is no easy task because a massive range of durable and inexpensive products we use are made from plastic. However, I believe we are well versed with the saying about leaving places (and even people!) better than you found them. Can you do that for the earth? The planet that has nurtured you from the time you’ve been alive. The same earth supposed to house and feed future generations to come. Well, the time to start is right now, and you can join Oluwaseun Sanwoolu, the founder and owner of SeepnSave on her mission to save the earth.
SeepnSave is a brand seeking to bring eco friendly product options to Nigerians. Barely 2 years old, SeepnSave offers a range of fun, colorful and affordable plastic-free items for everyday use. In this interview, amongst other things, Oluwaseun Sanwoolu discusses what inspired her brand, the challenges she faces operating in the Nigerian Green Industry and the big plans she has for SeepnSave in the coming years. She also shares practical tips on adopting a more environmental conscious lifestyle!
Hi Oluwaseun! Can You Please Tell Me A Little About Yourself?
My name is Oluwaseun Damilola Sanwoolu. I am a final year student of the Department of Philosophy, University of Ibadan. I am also the founder of Seepnsave, a brand that seeks to bring Ecofriendly options closer to people. Seepnsave was started in August 12, 2020.
What Inspired You To Start SeepnSave?
The inspiration to start SeepnSave came from a blogpost. I remember writing about the dangers of plastic straws and why people should turn to reusable straws. It got so many people who visited my blog talking and someone noted that even if they were to make the switch to eco friendly products, the alternatives were not available. I realized this was true and it made me start SeepnSave really. It is not just enough to talk about alternatives, we need to make them available.
I Imagine The Running Of Your Business To Be A Tad Bit More Difficult Than Others Because It Is Operating Within Nigeria, A Country That Largely Ignores Plastic Pollution And Its Terrible Effects. What Then Are The Challenges You Face As A Nigerian Entrepreneur In The Green Industry?
I think the biggest challenge comes with making people really realize the dangers of plastic pollution. A lot of people still do not think it is a big deal. So, they do not see the need for reusable straws or bamboo toothbrushes. Also, some people just see it as a “cool brand” without seeing the problem of pollution.
SeepnSave Is A Little More Than A Year Now, Congratulations! Your Company Started Producing Stainless Steel Reusable Straws, But Has Now Diversified Into The Production Of Other Plastic Free Products. Which Will You Say Is Your Favourite So Far?
Thank you so much!
That’s a tough question because I love all our products but my favorite so far has to be the cotton mesh bags because of how well it was received. They come in so many cute colors.
Any Tips For Nigerians Seeking To Live A More Eco-Friendly Lifestyle?
It starts with a consciousness and then asking yourself how you can do better for the environment. And it doesn’t have to be a big change, you can start with the seemingly little things like using reusable bags instead of plastic bags, owning a reusable water bottle, using a reusable straw if you have to use straws, buying thrifts, and reading and informing others about the dangers of plastic pollution.
We are Dying To Know Where We Can Contribute Our Quota Towards Environmental Sustainability By Purchasing Some SeepNSave Products.
www.seepnsave.com or you can send a direct message to @seepnsave on Instagram.
Green Usually Represents The Environment. If You Have To Describe The Color Green To A Blind Person Who Has Been Blind All Their Life, How Would You Make Them Understand This Color?
Ohh, this is a tough but fun one.
I will describe green with the smell of nature. You know when you are outdoors with nothing but the natural environment, that smell has this life and peace it comes with. So, I will describe green with life and tranquility.
What Is Your Favorite Thing About The Work You Do?
The fact that I know that I am contributing my own quota to solving environmental problems and also helping others do the same. It is really blissful.
Where Do You See SeepnSave 5 Years From Now?
In 5 years time, I see SeepnSave being a household name for environmental sustainability in and outside Nigeria. Having a physical store where we cater to the options of refillables. You know, many of our problems with plastic comes with single use plastics.
Amazing! I Wish You All The Best. If You Could Obliterate Any Trend/Product Contributing To Plastic Pollution , Global Warming Or Climate Change, What Would It Be?
Thank you! Well, I will have to pick two: Single use plastics and fast fashion.
What Words Would You Like To Leave The 21 Community With?
I am just going to add that environmental sustainability becomes easier when we all see the big picture. It is not a one man job, we must all come together to save our planet.
