Green Resources: Missouri-Made Bamboo Masks That Empower Communities and Protect Lives

A small town in rural Missouri has become a hub for innovation and sustainability. Green Resources, led by Iveth Jalinsky, has developed unique face masks made from carbon extracted from locally grown bamboo — a product that not only protects against the spread of COVID-19 but also uplifts the local economy in Cleveland, Missouri.

For over a decade, Iveth and her team have been harnessing the potential of bamboo as a renewable resource to combat pollution and create sustainable products. When the pandemic struck, their ongoing research became an unexpected solution for global health and community resilience.

“We started developing a mask to fight pollution — then COVID-19 happened. We redirected everything to make it efficient against pathogens,” said Jalinsky.

From Nature to Innovation

The company’s FFP3 masks feature four protective layers, one of which is made from carbon extracted from bamboo. This material has natural antibacterial properties that enhance filtration and help trap harmful pathogens.

Jalinsky even demonstrated how her bamboo-based fabric prevents the escape of micro-particles more effectively than conventional woven masks — proving that sustainability and performance can go hand in hand.

Strengthening the Local Economy

Green Resources’ operation in Cleveland, MO, has provided much-needed employment opportunities for local residents, generating hope and economic stability in a small rural community.

According to Trisha Krause, a local CPA and business owner, “It was at a great time when people needed jobs. Small businesses supporting each other make a huge difference in towns like ours.”

The company plans to move full production from China to Missouri, allowing the masks to be 100% locally manufactured — an initiative supported by grants and community partnerships.

Community Commitment and Global Impact

Beyond manufacturing, Green Resources has donated thousands of masks and proceeds to hospitals and organizations including:

• Children’s Mercy

• Saint Luke’s

• The University of Kansas Hospital

• aSTEAM Village

• Guadalupe Center

• Kansas City Police Department

These efforts reflect Iveth’s philosophy of combining environmental innovation with social impact — a mission that defines the company’s purpose.

A Message of Perseverance

As an immigrant entrepreneur from Colombia, Iveth faced countless obstacles — from cultural adaptation to breaking into the U.S. environmental sector.

“You take what people see as a negative and turn it into a positive,” she said. “It’s perseverance, endurance, and never giving up.”

Her success story continues to inspire other innovators and women leaders who seek to build sustainable futures through creativity, resilience, and purpose.

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Explore more about Iveth Jalinsky and Green Resources’ sustainability initiatives in our related post:
👉🏻Missouri-Grown Bamboo Powers Green Resources’ Sustainable PPE Innovation

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