With an estimated 25 billion pairs of chopsticks thrown out each year, this businessman is capitalizing on these disposable utensils.

”Research showed that literally billions of single-use chopsticks were consumed annually. The more shocking revelation was that it took, by some estimates, 25 million trees and bamboo plants to support that resource waste. Was there an opportunity to use the chopsticks for other applications that would provide a consumer benefit while bringing awareness to the negative environmental impact of single-use chopsticks? After extensive research and development efforts, including a unique process for reclaiming and thoroughly sanitizing chopsticks, Kwytza was born.”

In 2002, while Bryan Parks was eating at a noodle shop in China with a friend, he wondered how many disposable chopsticks were thrown away each year, and from that simple question came an idea for a business using recycled chopsticks. Two years later, Parks returned to China and began experimenting with gathering the used chopsticks and turning them into products.

He collected the chopsticks from dumpster and trash receptacles, sanitized them by boiling them and drying them in the sun, and began his first product: lamps. Parks said that while they were popular, they didn’t cover his expenses, so he moved on to making placemats, another popular item, but which used quite a few chopsticks to make.

Parks finally hit upon an idea that would become his signature product: collapsible baskets. He now pays a man in China to pick up the used chopsticks from about 10 restaurants and to sanitize them by boiling them for an hour. Some of the chopsticks are then died a darker brown with black tea.

Parks pays seven Chinese people to make the baskets - drilling tiny holes in the chopsticks and stringing them with fishing line. According to him, he lets his friend in China suggest the wage they are paid, with the intent of giving them a good living from the construction of the baskets.

“Last year, I recycled over 800,000 chopsticks, and we’re going for a million this year.” - Parks

The baskets that Kwytza sells collapse flat for shipping and storage, saving space in transport and at home.

”Unique, Practical, Green...These folding baskets are amazing! They are strong so you can load them up, and the superior air circulation keeps fruits and veggies fresh. They are also perfect for holding nuts, serving bread or just as a display piece. The large size can even be used as a colander. The foldable design makes them easy to store, which makes them not only great for home and office, but also for camping and picnics. A nice recycled item for yourself or to give as a gift.”

Check out the collection from Kwytza, and connect with them on their Facebook Page.