Greenhouse Pioneer: Noel Adbayem, The Humble Co.

Over 3.6 billion plastic toothbrushes are used worldwide every year, most of which end up in landfills and oceans. In a bid to provide a sustainable alternative, The Humble Co. created 100% biodegradable bamboo toothbrushes.

In celebration of Plastic Free July, we caught up with Humble Co. Founder and real-life dentist Noel Adbayem to find out more.

Tell us, in 20 words or fewer, about The Humble Co. – what’s your mission? 

To provide the world with functional, and environmentally and socially sustainable products.

What drives you? 

Witnessing first-hand how children in poorer countries are thankful for the smallest of gifts, which we in our part of the world take for granted.

What is your greatest achievement to date? 

Reaching our current positioning as a forerunner and leader within our field.

What are the challenges you face?

Conveying our message and the values we care about to the end-consumer, which warrants a higher price for our products.

What are you working on that’s getting you fired up and excited?

Product line extension – more Humble!

Where do you want to take The Humble Co. next? 

Growth is key for us now, to be able to reach out to more people and spread our message.

What can we, as individuals, do to make a difference?

It’s the aggregate of the small things happening daily that count, not necessarily the big actions. Consider if there’s a better way to do routine activities and dare to break the pattern.

How is what you are doing inspiring change in others?

We are showing that positive change and innovation is possible, even in a highly consolidated market.

Can you recommend a life- or game-changing book for our readers? 

The Alchemist – Paolo Coelho.

What do you listen to when you’re cooking dinner?

Classical music.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given? 

Believe in yourself and your ideas, especially when no one else does.

Can you leave us with who’d be your Eco Hero? 

Elon Musk.