Aveda has released its Holiday 2009 collection, which comprises eight limited edition gift sets that help support the indigenous communities and craftsmanship of northwestern Nepal.
The Holiday 2009 gift collection includes the following sets: Caribbean Rejuvenation, Source of Replenishment, Celebrate with Color, Himalayan Glow, Seven Points of Balance, Ritual of Relief, Carryon Companion and Conserve Vibrancy — all of which will be available for a limited time beginning November 2009 in salons, spas, stores and online at www.aveda.com.au.
Honouring the 500-year-old craft of Nepali papermaking, each gift set is embellished with Lokta paper handcrafted by men and women in Malika and Dolakha; two Himalayan forest regions. Aveda says its sourcing of the Lokta paper helps support the local Nepali industry which keeps families together and reverses local deforestation in the region.
Aveda began its partnership with Nepali communities in 2002, and reports that the mutually-beneficial relationship continues to strengthen; promoting environmental stewardship and helping build a brighter future for families in the region.
According to Aveda statistics on its support, the Nepali communities have experienced an increase in household income by 318 per cent, sent 4,800 children to school – curbing child labour – and reduced migration for jobs by 15 per cent (among 21 registered forest communities, 2005 to 2008).
“When you give an Aveda holiday gift embellished with Nepali Lokta paper, you support a centuries old indigenous craft, and help break the cycle of poverty for the next generation,” said Dominique Conseil, president of Aveda. “This example of successful micro-enterprise reflects the Aveda mission as it cares for both the community and the planet.”