OUR STORY

ABOUT US

Protea was created as a response to the world's plastic pollution and waste epidemic of which the beauty and cleaning industry are a large part. The current form of consumption is no longer sustainable, causing environmental damage, and change needs to happen.

At Protea, we want to invite people to do their part in taking care of our Earth. By reducing one's waste through eliminating plastics, buying in bulk and supporting natural products, we can lessen the negative environmental impacts associated with our consumption.

To strengthen our community and reduce dependence on foreign product, Protea is dedicated to supporting local products and vendors here in Hawaii. It's simple - we believe in humanity and the change that is possible when we come together to act in favor of ourselves and our planet.

MEET THE FOUNDER

LORI MALLINI

Lori is an environmentalist and policy advocate with a degree in Environmental Studies from Hawaii Pacific University. Originally from Houston, TX, Lori grew up near the largest petrochemical hub in the country. This is where the beginning stages of plastic production occur and communities within miles of her home are severely impacted by the effects of this process.

Lori now lives across the world in Kailua, Hawaii, where beaches and wildlife are severely impacted by the end life of plastic. She has spent her time here advocating with Sierra Club Hawaii at the state legislature and city council for waste management, plastic reduction and recycling bills. While change at the top is important, Lori realized that it's equally important to make positive change at the community level, which is why she decided to open Protea Zero Waste Store.

When she is not working at Protea, Lori is continuing her advocacy work, volunteering with environmental organizations on island, and taking time to enjoy life with her husband, family, friends and dogs! She loves the beach, hiking, traveling, dancing, live music and sunsets. 

MEET THE TEAM

AMY

Amy is originally from Shingle Springs, CA. She is Protea's marketing director, and graphic & web designer. She loves hiking and being in nature, which inspires her to live a low waste lifestyle. Her favorite zero waste swap is the refillable cream deodorant!

ANNA

Anna is originally from Chicago, IL. She has a bachelor’s degree in Marine Biology and is passionate about marine mammal research and conservation. She spends her free time tending to her house plants and loves learning about new ways to live more sustainably. Her favorite zero waste swap is the washable dish sponge!

KENNA

Kenna has lived on Oahu since she was nine years old. Her passion for environmentalism is largely due to witnessing the plastic pollution problem in Hawaii at a young age. In her free time, she loves drawing, reading, and cleaning up the beach. Her favorite zero waste swap is the to-go ware bamboo utensil set.

LAUREN

Lauren is originally from Fairfax, VA. She has a bachelor’s degree in Sustainable Biomaterials and is passionate about finding new ways to connect with our community about living a sustainable lifestyle. In her free time she is either practicing photography or finding new plants for her garden. Her favorite zero waste swaps are the Kealia Organics soap and shampoo bars!