Conventional substances used to make our cosmetics, fabrics, paints, and packaging bright and colorful often include metal or oil-derived ingredients. For example, the most common pigment, titanium dioxide, causes a white coloration and is used in products from toothpaste to paper. Titanium dioxide has recently been recognized as a carcinogen and banned from food and pharmaceutical products in the EU. Furthermore, many pigments are mined in areas with high incident rates of human rights abuses, and where water is scarce. There are some bio-derived alternatives, but none have been able to compete at cost… until Sparxell.

Sparxell has developed the first environmentally sustainable, non-toxic pigments, glitters, sequins and films. Inspired by structural color found in the marble berry, their patented manufacturing technique transforms cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) into uniformly reflective, highly dispersible particles with state-of-the-art performance. The pigments are a fully biodegradable, easier to source alternative with an unlimited range of vibrant colors.

The Ray of Hope Accelerator (formerly Prize) supports nature-inspired solutions addressing the world's biggest environmental and sustainability challenges. Created in honor of Ray C. Anderson, founder of Interface, Inc. and a business and sustainability leader, the $100,000 Ray of Hope Prize (2020-2023) shone a light on the innovative, nature-inspired solutions that we need to build a sustainable and resilient world. Sparxell was selected as a finalist for the 2022 Ray of Hope Prize. Starting in 2024, the Ray of Hope Accelerator, built upon 8 years of programming, continues to support and foster a vibrant global community of innovative startups inspired by nature.

Animation: Jules Bartl
Script and Narration: Charlotte Stoddart
Sound Design: Nigel Manington
Fact checker: Rachael Bale
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