Founded in 2020 by a small group of friends, Oikos was born from a shared realization: the Philippines ranks among the top five contributors to global plastic waste polluting our oceans. In this exclusive look at Oikos behind-the-scene, we uncover how this eco-friendly business redefines the market with innovative solutions. By offering alternative packaging to plastic, Oikos is paving the way for a greener future while staying true to its core values of community and care.

A Name that Reflects Their Mission

Taking inspiration from the ancient Greek word “Oikos,” meaning “family, belongings, and house,” perfectly captures the heart of the company’s mission. This sense of care and responsibility is central to everything Oikos does, from creating innovative products made of cassava starch that support environmental sustainability to building a workplace culture that feels like family. 

Everyone, from the owners to the office staff to the machine operators, is involved in each other’s lives, creating a strong sense of unity. This connection uplifts the company and their families, communities, and the Philippines. 

Why Cassava and Corn Starch?

While many sustainable packaging companies turn to paper, often considered the most eco-friendly option, Oikos decided to take a different path. Inspired by a cassava bag producer, they introduced cassava starch bags, showcasing the material’s unique qualities. Over time, they expanded their product range to include corn-based bags as another alternative packaging to plastic.

Challenges with Purpose

Oikos’ journey to becoming a leader in sustainable packaging hasn’t been without its hurdles. One significant challenge lies in sustainably sourcing cassava and corn starch, as these raw materials aren’t readily available locally in their most basic forms. In addition, Oikos had to navigate the realities of the Filipino “tingi” culture. The company faced a critical decision and chose to focus on larger quantities, a move that aligned better with its goals and ensured profitability.

Despite these obstacles, Oikos stays true to its mission of providing biodegradable packaging for business while ensuring ethical practices and employee well-being remain top priorities. The company goes beyond basic compliance with labor laws, creating a workplace where every teammate feels valued and appreciated. As a women-owned and led business, Oikos places special importance on building a safe and supportive environment, ensuring fair compensation, respecting everyone’s time and contributions, and empowering all team members.

Real Green Commitment

At Oikos, we set ourselves apart from competitors that make unverified green claims by backing our eco-friendly packaging with certified tests and results from recognized authorities on green standards. In addition, we are the first and only brand in the Philippines to receive an Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) from DOST for our biodegradable products. Transparency is central to Oikos behind-the-scene operations, as we openly share every detail about our raw materials and product composition, including the cassava starch bags we proudly produce.As a leader in the movement for sustainability, we continue to demonstrate what it means to operate as a sustainable business in the Philippines. If you’re ready to switch, explore our range of sustainable packaging solutions today!