For those wondering how to bring nature into any space, Nora Loidi from Irun has the answer with her Ixkin Berdea project. Inspired by a 2019 proposal to create an indoor garden in a pilates studio in Vigo, she founded this venture to design green areas, whether covering several square meters or the tiniest corners. Her goal is clear: to foster love and respect for the environment from an ecological and sustainable perspective, regardless of location.
She specializes in creating preserved vertical gardens, working with mosses, lichens, and flowers. The process involves removing the plant's sap and introducing glucose to keep it alive. This idea stems from her studies in environment, landscaping, and rural environments, with the Vigo project marking the start of her entrepreneurial journey.
The name Ixkin Berdea, meaning 'green corner' in Basque, represents her well, though she initially considered English names. Her work merges art, sustainability, and connection with the environment. She sources materials from sustainable nurseries, avoids plastic, and ensures the moss used is protected and not taken from the wild, aligning with circular economy principles.
Maintaining these gardens is 'super easy,' according to Loidi. Being preserved, they require no watering and sustain themselves. They only need to be kept out of direct sunlight to prevent the natural lichens from losing their color, which is achieved with natural dyes. If exposed to too much light, the hues may fade. This also makes them sustainable by conserving water.
Loidi's work brings nature into daily life, offering a glimpse of greenery at home. Her passion for plants dates back to childhood, and after studying environmental science, she focused on garden design and botany. She previously worked at a sustainable plant nursery in Catalonia, gaining knowledge in cuttings and seeds, and now her home is described as a 'botanical garden' without a television.
Given recent temperatures, Loidi has observed a greater need for green spaces, particularly in Irun, where she feels there's a lack of lush parks to help regulate the climate. Her workshops aim not only to create nature indoors but also to raise awareness about environmental preservation and planetary care.
The entrepreneurial path hasn't been without challenges, and Loidi has considered giving up at times but has persevered. The entrepreneurship grants from Bidasoa Activa helped her understand business operations. She will be participating in the Bioterra fair on June 6th, offering reduced-scale workshops for attendees to take home a small piece of vertical garden. She will also conduct workshops in Hondarribia in collaboration with the local council, for both children and adults.
