Marlborough Express - Weekend Express

Even the smallest effort can make a big impact

- BUSINESS INNOVATION

It is the little changes that can provide the biggest benefits for the health of the planet, a Marlboroug­h herbal health practition­er says.

Julia Davidson, the owner of Julia’s Herbal Health is a finalist in the Cawthron Marlboroug­h Environmen­t Awards business innovation category.

She has been judged on her simple integratio­n of business and eco-friendly activities.

Julia creates her own products like immune tonic and eczema cream for pharmacies throughout Marlboroug­h.

Packing the healthcare products in eco-friendly boxes was one simple step she could make to better care for the planet.

‘‘Every small effort is a big effort,’’ Julia says. I’m really passionate about the environmen­t.’’

The packaging disintegra­tes when it comes into contact with water, which Julia says minimises the harm it can pose to the environmen­t.

The business has also been recognised for its commitment to childhood health and diet.

Teaming up with her son Joshua Marshall, Julia published the book Young Gardeners, Growing Chefs last year.

‘‘Growing your own food is better for the planet and I’m all about re-using and recycling,’’ she said.

The business is a team of three, as Julia works alongside two massage therapists in the medical centre just in front of her home. It is a pleasant commute to work as Julia passes her worm farm and vege garden on her way to the office.

While Julia is humble about her chances of winning, she says recognitio­n is not why she incorporat­es environmen­tal practices into her business ethos.

She aims to publish another book before the year is out with a focus on cancer and its treatment.

- Jeffrey Kitt

 ?? PHOTO: DEREK FLYNN/FAIRFAX NZ ?? Julia’s Herbal Health owner Julia Davidson encourages people to grow their own vegetables and use biodegrada­ble packaging.
PHOTO: DEREK FLYNN/FAIRFAX NZ Julia’s Herbal Health owner Julia Davidson encourages people to grow their own vegetables and use biodegrada­ble packaging.

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