Our Story
Our Beginnings
Flod began as an idea at a Sheffield Hallam University enterprise meeting in January 2021. Driven by a shared passion for sustainability, we set out with three core goals:
- Support and collaborate with local charities.
- Improve the quality of green spaces.
- Create environmentally friendly products.
Inspired by reports of plastic pollution in the oceans, we turned our focus closer to home—specifically, the alarming amount of waste in our local rivers. Rather than seeing discarded plastics and rubbish as the end of the line, we saw an opportunity for transformation.
Through research and experimentation, we discovered how surprisingly simple it was to recycle certain types of commonly discarded materials. The challenge was deciding what to create. With limited time, resources, and access to workshops due to Covid-19 lockdowns, we needed a product that was both meaningful and practical. A shared love of plants led us to the perfect solution: plant pots.
With no workshop space, our first prototypes were made in the back garden, using whatever tools we could find—sandwich presses, second-hand microwaves, and yoghurt pots as moulds.
As the project grew, we connected with local charities dedicated to cleaning up waterways, including The Don Catchment River Trust and The Canal & River Trust. Their encouragement and support were invaluable. Volunteers even began collecting and donating waste they found during personal litter picks, helping us to expand our efforts.
To give back, we pledge a portion of our profits to these organisations, supporting their mission to keep our rivers clean.
Where We Are Now
Since graduating, we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with Sheffield-based jewellery manufacturer Bailey of Sheffield, who generously provided us with workshop space. This has allowed us to refine our production process and expand our product range.
However, river waste alone presents a challenge—while we collect plenty of litter, much of it consists of materials that can’t be easily recycled, like tyres, car batteries, and industrial waste. To maintain a reliable supply of recyclable materials, we’ve partnered with Nam Song, a local Sheffield restaurant, to repurpose their plastic and glass waste. Nam Song is proud to know their waste is being recycled locally and ethically, contributing to a circular economy.
Looking Ahead
Our vision is to see clean and thriving waterways—not just in the UK, but globally. Our immediate focus is on expanding into more cities, protecting more UK rivers, and encouraging community involvement through local litter picks. The volunteers and organisations we work with do incredible work, and we’re committed to raising awareness, donating a share of our profits, and supporting their efforts however we can.
We also want to work closely with businesses to help them recycle their waste in a meaningful way. Through our bespoke recycling process, we can transform their discarded plastic and glass into unique, functional products they can use or sell within their company—turning waste into something valuable while reinforcing their commitment to sustainability.
Alongside this, we have plans to host our own local events, inspiring others to pursue environmentally conscious careers and proving that sustainable businesses can thrive.
Thank you for taking the time to learn more about Flod. Every purchase, share, and conversation helps us make a real difference.
To follow our journey, check us out on social media:
Instagram, TikTok & Facebook: @flod.uk
Together, we can create a cleaner future.