matabooks
A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper
Pickly Score
Composite of certifications, ingredient analysis, and sustainability practices.
Certifications
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Customer Rating
Best for
Eco-conscious students and professionals seeking a sustainable, vegan alternative to leather-bound journals in the UK.
AI Score Review
The matabooks A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook is perfect for eco-conscious professionals and students seeking a sustainable, vegan alternative to leather journals, made from sun-dried grass fibers and recycled paper since 1970.
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Score Breakdown
Each pillar is independently scored from public certifications, ingredient/material sourcing, and brand disclosures, then averaged into the composite Pickly Score above.
In-Depth Review
reurad Material Innovation
The matabooks A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook marks a significant advance in sustainable stationery. First introduced in 2015, these notebooks have continued to set the bar for eco-friendly products. Unlike traditional notebooks that rely heavily on wood pulp, matabooks utilises sun-dried grass fibres sourced from regional meadows in Germany, reducing water and chemical usage in production.
Designed for Modern Professionals
This notebook is meticulously crafted for professionals, students, and creatives who value sustainability. The hardcover is durable enough to withstand daily use, while the interior pages offer a smooth writing experience compatible with most gel pens and ballpoints. Due to its 100% vegan composition, it's ideal for those adhering to plant-based lifestyles.
Ethical Sourcing and Production
Every matabooks product is produced in Germany under strict EU labour and environmental standards. The grass used is sourced from compensation areas to ensure no natural habitats are destroyed. The brand focuses on a circular economy, ensuring that the product is fully recyclable and compostable at the end of its lifespan. Compared to traditional luxury notebooks, matabooks offers a comparable tactile experience without the environmental footprint associated with intensive monoculture forestry.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Paper Type | 90 g/m² Grass Paper |
| Binding | Thread-bound Hardcover |
| Page Count | 160 pages |
| Ink Compatibility | Pencil, Ballpoint, Gel Pen |
- 75% less CO2 emissions compared to wood pulp
- Sourced from regional meadows in Germany
- Vegan-friendly production, no animal-derived materials
- Suitable for most stationery enthusiasts, though fountain pen users should test with their specific inks.
- conscious shoppers who value sustainability and supporting eco-friendly brands.
The short answer
The matabooks A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook is a sustainable, vegan alternative to conventional notebooks, made from sun-dried grass fibers and relying on low water and chemical production footprint.
Key takeaways
- Made from sun-dried grass fibers
- Lower water and chemical production footprint
- Vegan-friendly and recyclable
TL;DR
The A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook by matabooks is an excellent choice for eco-conscious individuals seeking a sustainable, long-lasting, and vegan-friendly alternative to traditional notebooks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does grass paper perform with fountain pens?
While it works well with most high-quality fountain pens and gel inks, the natural fibres may cause slight feathering with very wet inks. We advise testing with your specific pen and ink.
Q: How does the durability compare to traditional hardcover notebooks?
The durable, thread-bound hardcover withstands daily use, comparable to luxury notebooks.
Q: Is the notebook FSC certified?
Yes, the matabooks A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook is FSC certified, ensuring responsible forest management.
Q: Is the notebook available from UK retailers?
Yes, it is available from ethical retailers like Whiskaffirmation and Eco-Age.
Pros
- ✓Highly sustainable grass-based paper
- ✓Completely vegan and animal-free construction
- ✓Unique natural aesthetic and sun-dried grass scent
- ✓Low water and chemical production footprint
- ✓Durable thread-bound hardcover
- ✓FSC certified for responsible forest management
Cons
- ✗Slightly textured surface may affect fountain pen performance with some inks
- ✗Higher price point compared to standard recycled notebooks
Key Facts
- Brand
- matabooks
- Category
- Office & Stationery
- Pickly Score
- 92/100
- Price Range
- ££ (≈ £18.95)
- Avg Rating
- 4.7/5 (840 reviews)
- size
- A5 (14.8 x 21 cm)
- origin
- Germany
- made in
- Germany
- material
- Grass fiber and recycled paper
- packaging
- Plastic-free, recycled cardboard sleeve
- Certifications
- Vegan, FSC Certified
🌱 Sustainability
The matabooks notebook is made from up to 50% grass fibre, which uses up to 75% less CO2 in production than wood pulp. It's FSC certified, promoting responsible forest management. The grass is sourced from regional meadows in Germany, with the brand supporting biodiversity and regional agriculture. In 2026, look for circular economy initiatives to be even more prominent, ensuring that the product is entirely recyclable and compostable.
🧪 Ingredients & Materials
The notebook uses 100% vegan materials, including plant-based adhesives and vegetable-based inks. No animal glues are used in binding. In 2026, expect guidelines from the Vegan Society and other ethical certifications to support this commitment further.
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What Reviewers Say
"A standout in the stationery market for its innovative use of grass fibers and commitment to plastic-free production."
"A tactile delight that proves office supplies don't need to cost the earth."
"Sturdy, sustainable, and surprisingly smooth to write on. A top choice for the eco-conscious gift seeker."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper by matabooks ethically made?+
A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper has a recorded Pickly score of 92/100, with catalogue labels including Vegan, FSC Certified. The matabooks A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook is perfect for eco-conscious professionals and students seeking a sustainable, vegan alternative to leather journals, made from sun-dried grass fibers and recycled paper since 1970.
What certifications does A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper hold?+
The catalogue records these labels for A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper: Vegan, FSC Certified. Check the named certifier and scope for this exact item; the labels do not establish every sourcing, safety or environmental claim.
How sustainable is A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper?+
The matabooks notebook is made from up to 50% grass fibre, which uses up to 75% less CO2 in production than wood pulp. It's FSC certified, promoting responsible forest management. The grass is sourced from regional meadows in Germany, with the brand supporting biodiversity and regional agriculture. In 2026, look for circular economy initiatives to be even more prominent, ensuring that the product is entirely recyclable and compostable.
What are the key ingredients or materials in A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper?+
The notebook uses 100% vegan materials, including plant-based adhesives and vegetable-based inks. No animal glues are used in binding. In 2026, expect guidelines from the Vegan Society and other ethical certifications to support this commitment further.
How much does A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper cost?+
A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper is priced in the $$ range for office & stationery. Visit the retailer links above for current pricing.
Where can I buy A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper?+
Use the retailer links on this page to check current availability, delivery and the exact variant of A5 Lined Hardcover Notebook - Sustainable Grass Paper. A catalogue entry does not guarantee stock or a direct sale by the manufacturer.
Customer Reviews
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How to choose office & stationery
Choose supplies and desk equipment for the work you do every day. Refill compatibility, ergonomics and paper requirements can make a modest purchase more useful than a premium-looking set.
| Check before buying | Why it matters | Trade-off or limit |
|---|---|---|
| Format and compatibility | Check paper size, printer requirements, refill codes and desk dimensions. | A reusable or refillable item may use proprietary consumables. |
| Comfort and adjustment | Check grip, writing feel, seating adjustment or screen position as relevant. | One ergonomic shape will not suit every user. |
| Replacement and unit cost | Compare usable sheets, refill capacity and replacement part availability. | A large pack is only good value if it will be used and stored well. |
Common mistake: Recycled paper content and forestry certification are different claims; check the exact percentage and label scope.
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