(vimeo link)
Collection curator Emma Hawkins shows us some items made from animals long ago with functions beyond display. On one hand, using animal remains to make consumer products is green in that the items are organic, biodegradable, and an example of recycling. Compare these items to the same things made of plastic or fiberglass. On the other hand, it's morbid and may have contributed to the decline of certain species. What do you think? Is it OK to value a fur or something made of ivory as long as the animal died a hundred years ago? Link -via Nag on the Lake
Yes, animals and plants are a legit source of materials for the last bazillion years. 'Renewable' I believe is the trendy term...