The source materials that make up todays technological devices take hundreds of years to break down. An alternative ideology are disposable biodegradable products made from natural sources. The Natural Year Phone is made of hay, sans screen and soft keys.

Designer: Je-Hyun Kim

“A phone made completely out of hay! Well, it’s also sans screen and soft key, but the main gist of the Natural Year Phone is that it’ll biodegrade in two years after the hard components are recycled.
Kim is sending society a message. In a world of technological trends and close-fisted consumption, we need to think about durability. Really now, people, if we’re just going to go through another gadget in a couple of years (or for those who crave the cutting-edge, in a couple of weeks) why use materials that take centuries to break down? In two year’s time, a mobile phone becomes obsolete and most contracts end. Kim designed his phone to last as long as it’s needed.
In this day and age, with everyone becoming more aware of our carbon footprint, I’m sure this product will flourish. Plus, it’s a trend in itself. Looking at the bigger picture, though, Kim has opened the eyes of manufacturers and has triggered an eco-friendly movement. I’m sure his idea has been ridiculed and laughed at many of times, but hay, he’s changing things.”

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