Signals

UK – Lucid Life (known as Marama Ora in Tahitian) is a groundbreaking biodesign project that blends modern biotechnology with traditional Pacific Islander craftsmanship. This innovative collaboration, led by designer Christopher Bellamy and a team of artisans from Mo’orea, French Polynesia – including Tekoui ‘Jérémie’ Tamari, Tokainiua Jean-Daniel Devatine, Hinatea and Moé Colombani, and Naumi ‘Mamie’ Tapi – creates luminous objects infused with living, bioluminescent micro-algae that glow when touched.

The bioluminescent material, which follows a daily cycle of eight hours of sleep and 12 hours of daylight, can survive for up to six months. Developed during Bellamy’s master’s degree at Central Saint Martins in London, the project features a variety of creations, including a drum, swimsuit and neckpiece, each made from ocean-sourced materials and microorganisms native to the waters around French Polynesia.

This collaboration highlights the convergence of ancestral knowledge and cutting-edge scientific innovation, demonstrating how biotechnological advancements can extend beyond the lab to connect people with the natural world.

For more insights on neo-materials, head to our Biofabricated Futures design direction.

UK – Spending among UK shoppers aged 55 or older on resale platforms such as Depop, Vinted and eBay has surged by 12% in the last year, according to recent data from finance app Revolut. Interestingly, the oldest age group, those aged 75 or above, reported a notable 19% increase in spending, while the youngest cohort, aged 18–24, saw a 13% rise.

Historically, online resale platforms have been more popular with younger demographics, largely driven by their desire for sustainable fashion choices and bargain deals. However, recent trends suggest older generations are also gravitating towards second-hand purchases, motivated by rising concerns about sustainability and the cost of living crisis.

In a surprising shift eBay, which typically serves an older customer base, recorded a staggering 95% increase in spending among shoppers aged 25–34. In response to mounting competition, the platform recently announced it would eliminate fees for both buyers and sellers. ‘Removing selling fees is designed to give buyers greater access to inventory while creating a streamlined experience for sellers,’ said Kirsty Keoghan, general manager of eBay UK.

This growing interest in second-hand shopping aligns with predictions made in our Future Five: Sustainability report, where in 2024 we forecasted that the fashion industry could emerge as a significant ESG (environmental, social and governance) champion.