rekava creates containers for its candles from coffee grounds, turning the product into a biodegradable vessel. Interestingly, each candle comes with a gift of flower seeds, which can be grown in the same container.

Rekava’s entirely plant-based, disposable cups will break down after about 30 minutes when filled with boiling-hot water, or about 2 hours after holding cold water.

rekava was founded to turn discarded coffee waste into a range of products. He hopes that in addition to recognising his solutions, visitors to the exhibition will receive the message that Ukraine, and its young entrepreneurs, are adapting to adversity, but also aiming to help their country rebuild after the war.

Imagine coffee grounds becoming the “home” for a candle that, after burning out, “reincarnates” as marigolds.

rekava is committed to the principle of the circular economy – and the cleantech principle, whereby the use of natural resources, waste and energy consumption in the production of new goods should be kept to a minimum.

The candles are a bright spot for the start-up, which has seen total sales nearly double since the invasion.

Their mission sounds global – using daily habits to save the planet from single-use plastic and other non-degradable waste in landfills. But it is by small daily steps that they make it a reality.

rekava candles are an eco-friendly alternative to conventional decorative candles, whose containers are typically made of plastic, glass, wood, or concrete.

For rekava, partnerships with large businesses are a catalyst for growth, while for companies, it is a conscious choice of an innovative and eco-friendly product made in Ukraine during the war.