Sustainability January 27, 2025
Koozie Group Partners With Plantable Pencil Company SproutWorld
The FSC-certified pencil contains a seed capsule and can be planted at the end of its useful life.
Key Takeaways
• Brand Partnership: Koozie Group (asi/40480) has teamed up with SproutWorld to offer plantable pencils, made from FSC-certified wood, which contain a biodegradable capsule containing seeds that can be planted after the pencil is used.
• Sustainability Innovation: The patented plantable pencil, originally developed by MIT robotics students, was acquired by Danish entrepreneur Michael Stausholm in 2013.
Counselor Top 40 supplier Koozie Group (KG, asi/40480) has partnered with supplier SproutWorld to offer its plantable pencils.
SproutWorld is the maker and global patent holder of the world’s first plantable pencil, developed by MIT robotics students. Danish entrepreneur Michael Stausholm purchased the patent and rights in 2013, and since then, the company says it’s had a mission of inspiring sustainable mindsets.
SproutWorld pencil (56083) from Koozie Group (asi/40480)
“The SproutWorld mission aligns perfectly with Koozie Group values,” said Debbie Disparte, director of product innovation and sustainability at KG. “As an industry leader in sustainability efforts, we’re excited to add these unique pencils to our innovative writing instrument category.”
The SproutWorld pencil (56083) is made from FSC-certified wood and features a biodegradable cellulose capsule at the end that’s filled with seeds ready to sprout when the pencil is too short to use. KG said it offers five seed options: basil, carnation, cucumber, daisy and forget-me-not. The supplier will be selling the pencils only in the U.S. market.
Camilla Vedel, chief commercial officer and global sales director for SproutWorld, said her company is pleased to partner with KG to help grow its presence in the U.S. “Their writing instrument specialization and sustainability leadership completely align with our values,” she added.
KG’s latest product addition comes close on the heels of its release of eight writing instruments with CarbonNeutral product certification, in accordance with The CarbonNeutral Protocol.
Based on reported 2023 North American promotional product revenue of $317 million, KG ranked seventh on Counselor’s most recent list of the largest suppliers in the industry.
In addition to being a certified CarbonNeutral company, KG has more than 1,900 products that carry its KG Factor designation, which identifies promo products that lessen environmental impact through longevity. Its domestic facilities are Forest Stewardship Council and/or Sustainable Forestry Initiative certified.
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