The green guide: Sustainable in Seattle
Filled with enthusiastic recyclers, expert composters, and organic appreciators, the Emerald City offers a green way of life.
Nature nurtures
You might find it hard to believe you’re still well within city limits while hiking the three-mile loop in Discovery Park. The trail takes you through forested canyons and open meadows, past sandy dunes, and atop dramatic bluffs before delivering you to the water’s edge for panoramic views of the Puget Sound and nearby mountain ranges. Don’t miss the picturesque West Point Lighthouse, built in 1881.
Here’s the scoop
Local fave Frankie & Jo’s was founded with the ethos that plant-based ice cream can be a force for good, helping to reduce our dependence on cow’s milk and getting more plants into people’s lives. In addition to making crave-worthy cones filled with flavours such as Salty Caramel Ash and Matcha Mint, the company uses compostable packaging and actively works to create an inclusive setting.
Reading room
See two of Seattle’s great loves — books and the environment — come together like the plot of a great novel in the Seattle Central Library. This downtown building was spearheaded by noted Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas, whose glass-and-aluminium façade was designed to be both eye-catching and energy efficient. The interior contains just as much visual interest — with a colourful surprise on the fourth floor.
Earth-friendly elegance
For a souvenir you can feel good about, visit Baleen, a zero-waste jewellery shop that turns recycled metals and unusual materials (think cellulose acetate made from plants) into affordable hand-crafted accessories. The minimalist earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings are perfect for everyday wear and come in gift boxes made from 100 per cent recycled paper.
Finnair flies to Seattle (SEA) three times a week.