A West Lothian-based start-up is harnessing cork to help reduce carbon emissions across the construction and textile sectors.
Founded by former business analyst, Antero Lopes Duarte, the venture comprises two distinct brands with a shared mission. CorkEco Solutions focuses on cork-based insulation for buildings, described as offering a sustainable alternative to conventional materials, while CorkStyle delivers ‘planet-friendly’ jewellery, apparel, and corporate gifting products.
Antero secured a £15,000 loan from BizBritain and the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. The funding will support the launch of two new digital platforms: a new website for CorkEco Solutions and an updated e-commerce store for CorkStyle. It will also help fund marketing campaigns.
“Cork is one of the most sustainable materials on the planet,” said Antero. “It’s 100% renewable, carbon negative, and incredibly versatile. It can insulate homes and be crafted into beautiful, durable gifts. In much of Europe, cork is well used as a raw material, but here in Scotland, it’s still a bit of a hidden gem. I want to change that and showcase its many benefits.”
Originally from Portugal, Antero now calls Scotland home. Inspired by a long-held dream and the growing demand for sustainable solutions, he launched his business to bring cork’s benefits to a wider audience and prove that businesses can be both successful and environmentally responsible.
Cork is said to reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint due to its renewable, low-energy production, and carbon sequestration properties.
CorkEco Solutions uses spray cork and cork boards as its primary method of property insulation. Spray Cork is a solution made from a mixture of water and cork granules, naturally harvested without chemicals. Spray cork is also a by-product of the cork stopper industry.
Antero aims to grow CorkEco Solutions’ market share in the Scottish construction sector and build further partnerships with architects, developers, and corporate clients.
Barry McCulloch, senior manager, UK network, Scotland at the British Business Bank, added, “CorkEco Solutions is a great example of how sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand while CorkStyle shows that fashion doesn’t need to harm the planet. Antero started his journey with a desire to blend the eco-friendly with the functional, creating two brands with real potential. We’re proud that the Start Up Loans programme could support his vision.”
Since its inception in 2012, the Start-Up Loans programme has provided 367 loans worth £3.38 million to start-ups in West Lothian.
