And finally… ‘corker’ of an idea

Founded by former business analyst Antero Lopes Duarte, the venture is made up of two distinct brands with a shared mission. CorkEco Solutions focuses on cork-based insulation for buildings, offering a sustainable alternative to conventional materials, while CorkStyle delivers planet-friendly jewellery, apparel, and corporate gifting products ranging from elegant welcome kits to unique desk accessories.

Both parts of the business are rooted in Antero’s belief that sustainability doesn’t have to mean compromise. Whether it’s reducing emissions in the construction industry or offering greener choices in fashion and gifting, his goal is to help people make better choices - without sacrificing quality or style.

To help bring his business vision to life, Antero secured a £15,000 loan from BizBritain and the British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme. The funding will support the launch of two new digital platforms: a new website for CorkEco Solutions and an updated e-commerce store for CorkStyle. It will also help fund marketing campaigns as the business continues to grow.

Antero said: “Cork is one of the most sustainable materials on the planet. It’s 100% renewable, carbon negative, and incredibly versatile. It can insulate homes and be crafted into beautiful, durable gifts. In much of Europe, cork is well used as a raw material, but here in Scotland, it’s still a bit of a hidden gem. I want to change that and showcase its many benefits.”

Originally from Portugal, where cork is widely celebrated for its durability and eco-credentials, Antero now calls Scotland home. Inspired by a long-held dream and the growing demand for sustainable solutions, he launched his business to bring cork’s benefits to a wider audience and prove that businesses can be both successful and environmentally responsible.

Cork can significantly reduce the construction industry’s carbon footprint due to its renewable, low-energy production, and carbon sequestration properties. Cork oak forests naturally absorb carbon dioxide, and cork harvesting, a sustainable practice, doesn’t harm the trees, allowing them to continue sequestering carbon. 

CorkEco Solutions uses spray cork and cork boards as its primary method of property insulation. Spray Cork is a solution made from a mixture of water and cork granules, naturally harvested without chemicals. Spray cork is also a by-product of the cork stopper industry, with its use in construction significantly minimising waste.

Similarly, in the fashion and textile sector, cork is seen as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather. While both materials are durable, cork offers many advantages in terms of sustainability and water resistance. The production of leather is also linked to deforestation and pollution from the tanning process, unlike cork, which is 100% renewable and biodegradable.  

Looking ahead, Antero aims to grow CorkEco Solutions’ market share in the Scottish construction sector and build further partnerships with architects, developers and corporate clients, all while positioning CorkStyle as the go-to brand for eco-conscious gifting in Scotland.

Barry McCulloch, senior manager, UK Network, Scotland at the British Business Bank, said: “CorkEco Solutions is a great example of how sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand while CorkStyle shows that fashion doesn’t need to harm the planet. Antero started his journey with a desire to blend the eco-friendly with the functional, creating two brands with real potential. We’re proud that the Start Up Loans programme could support his vision.”