Clean Conscious Packaging

Jul 19, 2021
Clean Conscious Packaging

Here at Honest, we're always looking for ways to improve so we can provide you with even better options. Our latest improvement is a packaging refresh that looks good AND does good, thanks to some smart, sustainable swaps. Here's a breakdown of some of the materials we chose and what makes them sustainable choices.

PCR

What is PCR?
PCR (post-consumer recycled) is an environmentally-friendly packaging option that reuses materials.

Why did we pick this material?
We use PCR plastic from PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and other plastics in order to reduce landfill waste and decrease pollution.

How is this material sustainable?
PCR reuses materials and has a more sustainable production process (less energy & fossil fuels used) vs. creating virgin plastic. Plus, new plastic comes from non-renewable materials (petroleum) that is avoided through the use of PCR.

TIN

Why did we pick this material?
Tin can be recycled infinitely! It has the ability to be reused over again whether through recycling or upcycling.

How is this material sustainable?
Tin is easily recyclable. Compared to plastics that degrade in quality after recycling, metals can be recycled over again without degradation in properties.
Every year more steel is recycled than glass, paper, aluminum, and plastic combined. Tin can be recycled back into its original form of pure tin ingot in large quantities.
Endless upcycling possibilities! Tin is easy to reuse after washing out contents to to recognize your DIY dreams.

GLASS

Why did we pick this material?
Clear Glass is 100% infinitely recyclable, which means that it can recycled endlessly without loss in quality.

How is this material sustainable?
Glass is 100% recyclable, takes less energy to manufacture, and doesn’t need additional additives to preserve the contents. Less energy is used in the recycling & manufacturing process: Cullet melts at a lower temperature = less energy in the process of re-making glass. It is also a great material that can upcycled! Amazing to reuse after contents are washed out.

ALUMINUM

Why did we pick this material?
Aluminum can be recycled infinitely. Recycling aluminum uses 95% less energy than making primary aluminum for the first time. This lower energy demand = reduction of CO2 footprint per aluminum tube. Aluminum is also a lightweight material (⅓ weight of steel) so it emits less CO2 during transport.

How is this material sustainable?
Aluminum is called a green metal! This is because it is a bio-rich mineral that can be recycled over and over again, and requires significantly less energy in re-production.

TREE FREE PAPER

What is Tree Free paper?
Tree Free paper is a sustainable packaging alternative that uses renewable crops from agricultural waste (i.e. sugar cane, corn husks). Bagasse, the by-product of sugarcane provides the materials to make Tree Free paper.

What products will be in this material?
All Honest Beauty products will utilize Tree Free paper for packaging cartons by the end of 2021

Why did we pick this material?
Tree Free paper is an environmentally-friendly alternative to tree-based papers as the Tree Free fibers regenerate quickly and are harvested sustainably without disrupting ecosystems.

How is this material sustainable?
Tree Free paper is recyclable* and made with renewable resources like sugarcane bagasse which have a shorter growth period as opposed to a tree life cycle making it a more sustainable alternative to traditional paper products. It is USDA BioPreferred + BPA/Chlorine/Dye Free.
Tree Free paper is completely compostable and recyclable, made with non-toxic ingredients that are safe for the environment during the break-down process. Sustainable production process: crops are harvested and regrown saving soil erosion and habitats.
Biodegradable, USDA BioPreferred, BPA/Chlorine/Dye Free: created from sugarcane, bio-based paper will enrich soil with nutrients when composted.

*Always check with your local municipality for recyclability acceptance.

We aim to provide you with the most honest and credible information possible. This article was reviewed for accuracy by The Honest Team and was written based on trusted sources that are linked at the bottom of the article.

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