Know the Paper - Transforming Algae into Paper
Alga Carta: A Paper with Purpose
Not all paper tells a story. But Alga Carta does.
Born from an environmental challenge in the Venice Lagoon in the 1990s, this revolutionary paper was created to heal the sea while offering a beautiful and sustainable writing experience. What started as a solution to an ecological crisis has grown into a powerful example of how creativity and sustainability can work hand in hand.
A Problem That Became a Possibility
Sometimes, nature needs a little help. When algae began multiplying uncontrollably in the Venice Lagoon, it threatened the delicate balance of marine life. What was once an essential part of the ecosystem became a danger, blocking sunlight, suffocating fish, and disrupting the water’s oxygen levels.
Rather than letting this problem grow unchecked, Italian papermakers found a way to turn excess algae into something new, useful, and lasting—a high-quality paper that carries the marks of nature itself.
From Sea to Page: How Alga Carta is Made
Even today, Alga Carta is produced using the same innovative process, now extending its reach beyond Venice to other parts of the world where overgrown algae threaten marine environments. The process is simple yet powerful:
- Harvesting the excess algae from delicate marine ecosystems.
- Drying and refining the algae, preparing it to be transformed.
- Blending it with FSC™-certified fibers, ensuring a balance of sustainability and strength.
- Crafting a unique, high-quality paper where the tiny seaweed particles remain visible, offering a natural and organic look.
The result? A paper that carries the spirit of the ocean in every sheet.
Why Alga Carta Stands Apart
Beyond its beauty and sustainability, Alga Carta represents a commitment to the future:
✅ Made with renewable energy – Supporting cleaner production practices.
✅ Carbon-neutral – Offsetting unavoidable emissions.
✅ Recyclable & biodegradable – Leaving no waste behind.
✅ Certified by FSC™ – Ensuring responsible forestry practices.
Every page made with Alga Carta is more than just paper—it’s a step towards a world where innovation meets responsibility.
A Notebook That Embodies Change
At A la Carte, writing, planning, and creating should happen on materials that respect the earth. That’s why we’ve chosen Alga Carta for our Compass Notebook—a timeless leather-bound journal designed for those who dream, explore, and care about the planet.
By choosing Alga Carta, you’re not just writing your thoughts.
You’re writing a better future.