We’re beyond proud to share that Nariyal has been officially featured in the San Francisco State University (SFSU) Sustainable Materials Learning Library; the first of its kind on the West Coast. This landmark project brings together pioneering, eco-conscious materials and products from around the world, serving as a hands-on resource for students, designers, and sustainability enthusiasts.
Our handcrafted coconut shell bowl now sits among some of the most innovative sustainable materials in the industry; a tangible testament to what’s possible when waste is transformed with intention and creativity.
How This Came to Be
Earlier this year, we received a message from SFSU’s Sustainable Materials Learning Library team. They had come across Nariyal and were inspired by our approach to sustainability and how we turn discarded coconut shells and reclaimed wood from naturally fallen trees into beautiful, functional homeware.
In their words:
“We believe that Nariyal's innovative use of coconut shells in recycling materials showcases your commitment to sustainability and offers a unique and inspiring example of eco-friendly design.”
They invited us to send one of our coconut shell bowls to be displayed as part of their permanent material collection, allowing visitors to touch, see, and learn about the potential of agricultural byproducts in sustainable design.
Why This Matters
The Sustainable Materials Learning Library is more than a display. It’s a hub of inspiration for future architects, designers, product developers, and innovators. Our bowl will now serve as a real-world case study, demonstrating how what’s often discarded as waste can be transformed into something both beautiful and purposeful.
For us, this is a huge step in our mission:
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To reduce agricultural waste by giving coconut shells a second life.
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To inspire sustainable design thinking beyond just tableware - sparking ideas for future products and materials.
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To connect cultures through craftsmanship, bringing a piece of tropical heritage to the global conversation on sustainability.
A Closer Look at the Display
The exhibit includes:
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Our natural coconut shell bowl with its rich, textured grain; each piece unique, shaped entirely by nature.
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An information card describing Nariyal’s mission and material story.
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A scannable QR code for visitors to explore our work and learn more about the coconut’s journey from waste to wonder.
Inspiring the Next Generation
We see this feature not just as recognition, but as a platform to inspire. The students and visitors who encounter our bowl may be the next innovators in product design, material science, or environmental policy. If our story encourages even one person to rethink waste and see the beauty in overlooked resources, we’ve succeeded.
Gratitude
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the SFSU team for recognizing Nariyal’s work and for curating such a vital initiative. Being part of the first Sustainable Materials Learning Library on the West Coast is an honor we will carry forward in everything we do.
And to our community - your support makes moments like this possible. This is as much your achievement as it is ours.
📸 See the feature on our Instagram: SFSU Sustainable Materials Learning Library Post
🌐 Explore Nariyal’s Collection: nariyal.co
