b'When David shows at design fairs around the world he carts his lights, often huge installations, broken down into parts in his suitcase to avoid shipping and freight, and the carbon footprint that brings with it. David says he is often horrified at the waste by his fellow exhibitors. When I see the props they have brought in to dress up their stands all of which is discarded after six days, it is horrifying. It is this philosophy which has driven Davids new Seed concept. These lights are transported around the world in kitset form, which not only involves less packaging and thus requires less shipping, but gives people a chance to assemble their own work of art. Some people say if I paid this money why should I have to make it myself but by the end they have really enjoyed it. The idea is that you receive the seed of a lightshade and then make it grow yourself.David has lived and based his business in Hawkes Bay since 1991. If I lived in Milan or New York it just wouldnt be possible, it sucks you dry. Here the pace is slower, giving me more freedom to create.As well as the constantly expanding lighting business, Trubridge and his team (17 staff in all) are developing new works and materials. Right now they are experimenting with a plastic made from flax and plant fibres, which is more environmentally friendly than the polycarbonate they currently use.David continues to create and produce furniture, but says further developing his lighting designs is his focus. www.davidtrubridge.com'