Natália Guerreiro and Vítor Lopes are the founders of Corkor, a Portuguese brand crafting sustainable, vegan cork accessories. As a couple, they share a passion for nature, craftsmanship, and ethical living. Their journey began with a vision to offer a high-quality, eco-friendly alternative to leather, reflecting their commitment to sustainability in both business and life.
Tell us about your eco-journey: How did you start living a more eco-friendly lifestyle, and what motivates you to continue?
Natália Guerreiro:
My eco-journey began with a love for nature, especially Portugal’s cork oak forests. When I realized the environmental impact of leather, I wanted an alternative that aligned with my values. Cork’s sustainability and beauty made it the perfect solution. Seeing how Corkor helps people choose ethical accessories keeps me motivated.
Vítor Lopes:
I’ve always been curious about how everyday choices affect the planet. Discovering cork’s potential—renewable, durable, and uniquely Portuguese—was a turning point. Launching Corkor became a way to offer stylish, sustainable alternatives.
Eco-friendly habits: What’s your signature eco-friendly habit, and how has it impacted your daily life?
Natália:
I practice minimalism—buying fewer, high-quality pieces that last. It’s liberating and reduces waste.
Vítor:
Cycling is my go-to. It’s eco-friendly, keeps me active, and lets me enjoy the outdoors.
Sustainable food choices: If we came over for dinner, what eco-friendly meal would you serve us?
Natália:
I’d serve caldo verde and arroz de tomate with seasonal veggies—simple, plant-based, and delicious.
Vítor:
I would prepare a traditional feijoada de legumes, a hearty Portuguese bean stew packed with seasonal vegetables. It’s comforting, flavorful, and has a low environmental impact.
Gardening tips: What’s your top gardening tip for reducing waste and promoting sustainability?
Natália:
Composting kitchen scraps reduces waste and enriches my garden naturally.
Vítor:
Grow your own herbs. It’s simple, cuts packaging waste, and adds freshness to meals.
Eco-friendly travel: Do you make sustainable choices while traveling? Share
your favorite eco-friendly travel tips.
Natália:
I love slow travel—trains over planes and reusable essentials to cut plastic use.
Vítor:
Travel off-season and explore by bike for a greener, more authentic experience.
Sustainable fashion and beauty: Do you opt for sustainable clothing and beauty products? What are your favorite eco-friendly shops or brands?
Natália:
I choose local, sustainable brands and cruelty-free beauty products like Benamôr.
Vítor:
Timeless, durable clothing is key. For shoes, NAE Vegan Shoes is my top pick.
Environmental education: What’s the most important environmental lesson for kids today?
Natália:
Respect and responsibility. Simple habits like recycling and conserving energy matter.
Vítor:
Connect with nature. Kids who explore outdoors are more likely to protect it.
Finding joy and peace: What brings you joy, and how do you find peace in a busy world?
Natália:
Nature and creativity. Forest walks and designing new Corkor pieces bring me peace.
Vítor:
Craftsmanship and photography. Capturing everyday moments through the lens allows me to slow down and appreciate the beauty around me.
