Once made of rubber or plastic, the telethon’s organizer Comic Relief began looking for a home compostable alternative after the 2020 campaign. The 2023 design—conceived by LoveFrom, the design firm founded by Apple alum Jony Ive—is 95% plant-based and able to be flat-packed thanks to a honeycomb shape. The noses will be made from paper and corn-based polyester while a bagasse case keeps the nose safe from damage while not in use, according to dezeen.
“We’ve grown up with Comic Relief and are proud to support their remarkable work,” said Ive. “This new and seemingly simple red nose has been a fabulously complex little object to design and make, and has involved our entire team. We hope it brings a little moment of joy to everyone who wears one.”
Last year’s Red Nose Day raised £42.8 million (US$52.4 million). This year’s event will take place March 17 and raise funds for homelessness, mental health and food poverty.