Eco-Friendly Umbrellas: Introduction
This week’s Play It Green tip is all about eco-friendly umbrellas—because yes, even your brolly can be greener! Most of us don’t give much thought to our umbrellas beyond keeping us dry, but traditional ones are often made from materials that aren’t kind to the environment. Add in the fact that many break and get tossed away after a few uses, and you’ve got a recipe for landfill chaos.
In today’s tip, we’ll take you through the history of the umbrella, the environmental issues surrounding them, and how to choose an eco-friendly option.
Ready to make your rainy days a little greener? If so, please read on!
History of Umbrellas: From Ancient Egypt to Modern Brollies
The humble umbrella has a long and fascinating history that stretches back more than 4,000 years. Originally designed for shade rather than rain, the first umbrellas were used in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
Made from palm leaves and feathers, they were a symbol of status—only the wealthy could afford them. The idea of using umbrellas for rain protection came later, during the Han Dynasty in China. The Chinese developed the first waterproof umbrella using oiled paper.
By the 18th century, umbrellas became popular in Europe, with Paris and London being at the forefront of this trend. Strangely, men initially shunned the umbrella, seeing it as too feminine! But by the early 19th century, everyone was using one to dodge the drizzly UK weather. Fast-forward to modern times, and umbrellas have become a fashion accessory and a necessity in wet climates.
However, with millions of umbrellas breaking and being discarded each year, the need for more durable and eco-friendly options has never been more pressing.
Environmental Impact: The Not-So-Green Side of Traditional Umbrellas
You might be surprised to learn that most traditional umbrellas are made with materials that are far from eco-friendly. Typically, they consist of a mix of metal, plastic, and polyester—none of which break down easily.
The canopy fabric is usually made from nylon or polyester, both of which are derived from fossil fuels. These synthetic materials can take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills, contributing to the ever-growing problem of plastic waste. Then there’s the issue of cheap, poorly made umbrellas that break after a few uses.
Globally, it’s estimated that around 1 billion umbrellas are discarded each year. These umbrellas often end up in landfills or, worse, in our oceans, where the plastic and metal components can harm marine life. Finally, the production of traditional umbrellas is resource-intensive. Manufacturing processes can involve harmful chemicals, high energy usage, and emissions that contribute to climate change.
While it may seem like a small item, the cumulative environmental impact of millions of discarded umbrellas is anything but small.
What to Look for in Eco-Friendly Umbrellas: Keep Dry, Stay Green
When it comes to choosing an eco-friendly umbrella, a few key features can make all the difference. First, let’s talk about materials. Instead of the usual polyester, look for canopies made from recycled or sustainable fabrics, like recycled PET (rPET).
This fabric repurposes plastic bottles, giving them a second life as something both functional and environmentally friendly. Durability is another crucial factor. Eco-friendly umbrellas are built to last, meaning they won’t break at the first gust of wind. Some brands offer repair services or spare parts, allowing you to fix your umbrella rather than tossing it away.
And, of course, consider the frame. Opt for umbrellas with a recycled aluminium or steel frame, which are much more sustainable than cheap plastic frames. Also, check if the handle is made from sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled plastic. Lastly, pay attention to the brand’s broader sustainability efforts. Do they use renewable energy in production?
Are they committed to ethical labour practices? An umbrella made with care, both for people and the planet, is a much better choice when the clouds roll in.
Favourite Eco-Friendly Umbrella Brands: Keep Dry with a Clean Conscience
Original Duckhead
Our first brand is known for its vibrant, stylish designs, Original Duckhead produces umbrellas with sustainability at their core. Their canopies are made from recycled plastic bottles (rPET), and the handles are crafted from sustainably sourced birch wood. These durable, eco-friendly umbrellas are built to last and come in a range of fun colours and patterns.
Check out their range at Original Duckhead and use code PLAYITGREEN15 at checkout for a 15% discount on your first order.
Roka London
Our next brand, Roka London doesn’t just make backpacks—they’ve branched out into umbrellas with the same sustainable ethos. Their umbrellas feature canopies made from recycled materials and sturdy, long-lasting frames. Plus, for every purchase, Roka donates a portion to social and environmental causes.
Learn more at Roka London and sign up for their mailing list to take advantage of a fantastic 10% discount on your first order.
Jollybrolly
Our final brand, Jollybrolly offers affordable yet eco-friendly umbrellas, perfect for those unpredictable British downpours. Their umbrellas are designed with durability in mind, using strong, sustainable materials to ensure they don’t end up in landfills after just one season. With options for both adults and kids, Jollybrolly’s got the whole family covered.
Visit Jollybrolly for more.
Eco-Friendly Umbrella Wrap-Up: Ready to Weather the Storm?
Choosing an eco-friendly umbrella is a small but impactful step towards living more sustainably. Brands like Original Duckhead, Roka London, and Jollybrolly are making it easier to stay dry without harming the planet.
So, next time it rains (which, let’s face it, is all too often), grab an umbrella that’s good for you and the Earth. Let’s face the storm head-on—and keep our planet greener in the process!
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