Stevie winner Worthy is an Australian company founded by Angela Michel that is redefining sustainable product design by creating what they describe as the most sustainable drink bottle on the planet.
Built entirely from ethically sourced and sustainably produced sugarcane, Worthy’s bottles are carbon-negative and manufactured with zero waste—an approach that sets a new benchmark for environmentally responsible consumer products.
Central to Worthy’s model is its use of renewable resources and clean energy. The bottle is made from sugarcane stems, while the plant waste (bagasse) powers the factory, ensuring no material is discarded. The agricultural process for the raw materials relies solely on sunlight, rainwater, and natural sugarcane waste for fertilization, significantly reducing the overall environmental impact. Compared with traditional bottle materials, the process minimizes exposure to harmful chemicals, reduces industrial emissions, and supports a healthier manufacturing ecosystem.
A full-circle lifecycle is foundational to Worthy’s ethos. While the bottles are fully recyclable through standard household systems, customers are encouraged to return broken or unwanted components for repurposing into new sugarcane-based products. This closed-loop model ensures continual reuse of resources and helps keep plastic waste out of landfills and communities.
Worthy’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond environmental outcomes. The company partners with Vision Rescue, contributing 10% of each bottle’s proceeds to support education, nutrition, and clean water programs in Mumbai’s slum communities. Angela's firsthand visits to these neighborhoods reinforced the need for solutions that address both environmental and social challenges. Additional partnerships include RAMS, an Australian nonprofit that provides resilience programs for at-risk adolescents. Through workshops and student engagement, Worthy aims to inspire young people to pursue sustainability and social impact.
Ethical sourcing is equally central to Worthy’s operations. Its sugarcane resin supplier in Brazil is recognized for responsible environmental practices, fair wages, and safe working conditions. Worthy’s packaging further reflects these values, using FSC-certified recycled cardboard, compostable mailers, and solar-powered production facilities that recycle all manufacturing scraps.
In recent years, Worthy has earned recognition across multiple sustainability and consumer product awards, reflecting the strength and credibility of its mission. Since receiving a Stevie Award, founder Angela Michel has expanded the company’s reach, transitioning from her part-time radiography career to focus fully on growing Worthy globally. The brand secured a major partnership with an Australian supermarket, producing nearly 10,000 bottles for their centenary campaign. The company has also grown from a sole operation to a small team supporting its ongoing scale.
Worthy received a Silver Stevie® Award for Product of the Year - Sustainability and Climate Protection in the 2025 Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards.
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