Meet the Founder: Tony Maleedy of EarthKind

Handwashing: It's been on our minds constantly since the start of the global pandemic and one sustainable soap maker, EarthKind, is taking a science-led approach to rid us of germs and get us squeaky clean. We chat to the brand's founder, Tony Maleedy, about inspiring places, mindfulness in the midst of a busy day, and why putting the planet first isn't a passing passion.

What does creativity mean to you? How do you define it? What inspires you to be creative?

"To invent products that don't yet exist, a very creative imagination is essential. But as a scientist, it's also important to immediately question any ideas you come up with. If the product idea is a 'maybe,' keep trying. If it’s impossible, don’t waste time trying.”

Where do you live at the moment? What does your city offer you as a doer? Are there other places in the world that inspire you, why?

"I live in the countryside outside Bath, a very inspiring city. I only have to walk around Bath for a moment to feel inspired. But I imagine that like almost everywhere else during the pandemic, for most of the pandemic it was quite depressing to see the streets so empty, but it's certainly uplifting now to see life returning and the streets busy. For inspiration, I think you're Italian Cities like Rome, Venice or Florence can't be beat. But for pure exuberance and excitement, where I can feel the adrenaline pumping through my body, there is only one place for me, New York City.”

How did you get into this industry? What was your first job?

"I started training to be a hairdresser, but it quickly became clear that I was terrible at it, but quite good at the scientific aspects of the job, like perming or coloring. My boss at the time, a great man called Pierre Alexandre, noticed this and suggested I study trichology, the science of hair and scalp. I did this under another great man, Philip Kingsley. After three years I qualified and worked for Philip for a further five years in his clinics in London and New York before opening my own clinic in Manchester.”

Why is it important for consumers to continue to seek out mindful and inclusive brands? Why is mindful and sustainable production important?

"Because we only have one planet - we ignore this fact at our peril. Whether it's as small as throwing trash out the car window or as big as building new coal-fired power plants, we need to change our mindset and start putting our beautiful planet first. And that's certainly true when it comes to manufacturing any kind of product."

What does yoga mean to you? What are your other favorite ways to exercise or exercise alone or with family/friends?

"I can't claim to be a yoga expert, but stretching is an important part of my daily routine. Sitting in front of my computer screen for hours stiffens my back, so stretching and loosening the trained muscles is important to give me new life. The other thing I find working in a white, sterile laboratory several days a week is a great need to be outside in the countryside – either a walk in the country with my wife or just a walk in the woodland at the foot of our garden. This is a very quiet and peaceful place to sit and enjoy nature.”

What is your work uniform? What do you wear when you're not at work?

"When I work in the lab, I wear a white coat. Because of the pandemic, I haven't worn one of my suits in over 18 months, which I miss. Smart casual is now my usual style of dress."

What gives you energy and keeps you recharged?

"A good product idea. If it's feasible, we can implement it!"

Favorite movie, book, app, podcast, game at the moment?

"Favorite film: The Shawshank Redemption, because I find it so uplifting towards the end. And who can resist the music of Mozart in the middle? Books: Ken FolletsPillars of the EarthSeries for a bit of escapism and a lot of history.”

Shop EarthKind’s sustainable skincare products here.