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

BAILEE

Bailee is Protea's store manager. She is a dedicated environmental advocate and ocean lover with a lifelong passion for taking care of the planet. She is deeply committed to promoting sustainability and minimizing the human impact on the environment. Bailee is excited to bring her drive for meaningful change while continuing to learn and grow in this vital space on the Hawaiian islands.

KATE

Kate is Protea's social media manager. She is originally from Wisconsin. She's passionate about using social media to positively impact the world. Kate spends her free time creating microplastic art, hiking, and reading. Her favorite zero waste swap is the Huskee coffee cup!

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!

CHENOA

Chenoa’s journey into the world of sustainability began with growing up in the Colorado mountains where she developed an admiration for the natural world and its diverse ecosystems. She is devoted to understanding the reciprocal relationships between humans and the environment to support sustainable solutions that are inspired by indigenous practices. When she’s not in the store you can find her working as a silversmith, practicing yoga, or writing for our Protea blog!