Discovering the right factory to entrust with the production of our recycled glass product was no small feat. We were determined to find one that would meet the high standards set by all of our factories. As these recycled glass products are set to complement our plant-based phone cases, it was crucial to ensure they matched the same level of quality. We were in search of a factory that will We ventured on a global journey, meticulously researching and visiting over 15 glass factories in our quest for the perfect partner. How we found it Our criteria were stringent; we sought not just quality and craftsmanship, but a dedication to using recycled glass, a commitment that few factories met. Our search led us to the city of Dongguan, China, renowned for its thriving manufacturing sector. It was here we found a gem of a factory, a rising star in the glass manufacturing industry despite only being operational for a few years. In the heart of Dongguan, there exists a bustling factory unlike any other, a beacon of innovation and environmental consciousness, specializing in the creation of recycled glass for phone cases. This fascinating process occurs entirely within a sterile environment known as a clean room. Not a single speck of dust is allowed within this hallowed space, ensuring each product's pristine quality. The process and way of working The creation of recycled glass is the process that begins with the meticulous task of cutting the glass. Precision is key here, as each sheet must be tailored to fit a myriad of different phone models. Once cut to the appropriate size, the glass is then tempered, a process it undergoes two times. This is one more tempering cycle than most manufacturers undertake, but this extra step gives the glass its superior strength and resistance to shattering. After tempering, the glass undergoes an exhaustive cleaning process. An ultrasonic cleaner bathes each sheet in high-frequency sound waves that agitate the cleaning solution, thoroughly dislodging any minute impurities that might remain. Following this, the sheets are dried and re-cleaned once again before they are ready for the final placement onto the phone cases. But what sets this factory apart is its dedication to environmental sustainability. The factory made the courageous decision, together with us, to replace virgin plastic with RPET (Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate), reducing the need for newly extracted petroleum and instead utilizing material already in circulation. We’ve also removed two plastic stickers from their process, further lessening their environmental footprint. In a final touch of green innovation, they've adjusted their product trays into a biobased material, dramatically reducing their reliance on nonrenewable resources. Lear more about the benefits of bioplastic here. Despite the advanced machinery and automation, there is a crucial human element to this operation. Every single product undergoes a thorough manual inspection. Skilled workers carefully scrutinize each case for any signs of defects or imperfections, ensuring that only the highest quality products make their way into the hands of our conscious consumers. The meticulous process behind manufacturing glass for phone cases in this factory is not merely a testament to technological ingenuity but also serves as a beacon for environmentally conscious manufacturing, merging the pursuit of superior quality with the imperative of sustainability. The process, in short: Making glass for phone screens is a fascinating process. Everything is happening in a clean room, completely free of dust. It starts with cutting and thereafter tempering of glass. We do that 2 times, which is one more time than most. After this, we get into ultrasonic cleaning, drying, cleaning, and then placement of the glass. We replaced virgin plastic with RPET, took away 2 plastic stickers, and adjusted the tray into a biobased material. Manual inspection is needed for every product. About the owner One aspect that particularly resonated with us was the ownership structure of the factory. The owner is a young guy called Derek. We meet in May 2023. In a reflection of our own ethos, the factory is proudly owned by the very people who work there, creating a sense of unity and palpable shared purpose. Their commitment to quality, sustainability, and worker empowerment made it clear we had found the perfect match for our vision. The discovery of this factory was a significant milestone in our journey, reaffirming our commitment to sustainable, high-quality products and social responsibility. Conclusion In conclusion, our search for the ideal factory led us to a remarkable discovery in Dongguan, China. This factory aligns perfectly with our commitment to quality, sustainability, and worker empowerment. The manufacturing process takes place in a pristine clean room, ensuring flawless products. The factory's dedication to environmental sustainability is evident through its use of recycled and biobased materials. Every product undergoes manual inspection to ensure superior quality. Our partnership reaffirms our commitment to sustainable, high-quality products. We are excited about the future as we continue creating exceptional recycled glass products that contribute to a better world. Take a look at our full protection collection Including plant-based phone cases and fitting screen protectors as one product, with a bonus multi-charging cable.