As a handmade product-based business, it is essential to create not only quality products but also ensure that the practices align with positive environmental sustainability goals. Upon founding Just Plain Charming I became acutely aware of how using wrong suppliers resulted in a build up of single use plastics and other waste products. Over the years, I have invested time into researching best practices and methods to improve the sustainability of my crafts.
Ensuring eco-friendly/sustainable packaging is just one of the many positive steps that can be taken. When deciding on the packing of products, the full customer experience of this process also has to be considered. Quality packaging that complements the style and brand can provide just as much of an impression as the product itself.
Recently, I've updated and upgraded some of my packaging and wanted to share the steps I've taken to provide more mindful packaging choices, but first let's cover a bit about what is meant by the term sustainable.
What does “Sustainability” mean?
When we talk about sustainability in regards to being environmentally friendly, this essentially means adopting practices and making choices that aim to reduce or have no harmful environmental impact, and that focus on protecting and preserving the planet and resources for the long term.
Examples of this could include using recycled materials, items that are recyclable/biodegradable or that require less processing/energy to make.
Navigating this market can be challenging, ensuring you are doing your part when the terms “sustainable” and “eco-friendly” are widely used with different meanings and often misused. However, with more and more businesses focussing on sustainable practices there is increasing pressure on other industries and companies to evolve and improve their practices as well.
Just Plain Charming Packaging Practices
In general, I focus on using only what is necessary for packaging reducing the amount of waste produced. I also focus on using recycled materials and that my items are recyclable and or biodegradable. I also work to use reputable suppliers with good sustainability practices and values. Here is a little more about what I use:
Jewellery
Gift boxes are made from sustainably sourced and partially recycled materials. They are biodegradable, compostable and recyclable. I then stamp my logo onto the box which will be reusable time and time again and avoids the need for metallic foils and additional processing.
Earring/necklace cards, thank you slips and other cards used are made from recycled kraft card
Recycled tissue paper with a paper based sticker is used to keep your item wrapped and safe in transit
I also include a care card with instructions on how to keep your item looked after as well as provide a town talk polishing cloth with most orders. The cloth is impregnated with compound and can be used to keep your items in great condition. A small step to allow me to help you to keep your jewellery in great condition for years to come
Ceramics
Unlike jewellery ceramics require more packing to keep them safe in transit
All items are initially wrapped in recycled tissue paper with a paper based sticker
Then hive wrap is used to fully protect your item. This is essentially a cardboard alternative to bubble wrap and is made from FSC certified paper
From there the item is wrapped in thick recycled Kraft paper and secured using paper based tape.
Your items will be packaged in a thick cardboard box made from recycled materials alongside being stuffed full of compostable starch based packing peanuts to protect your precious item
I also include a thank you and care card with some advice on how to keep your ceramics looked after once in your care.
The box is then sealed with paper based tape and is ready for shipping
There is still much I’d like to develop in the future to improve my practices, however I hope that provides a little insight into my commitment to sustainability at Just Plain Charming.
Suppliers
Tiny Box - 90% of stock is recycled, recyclable or compostable
Kite Packaging - Certified Carbon Neutral Company
Purkidoodles - Small Business Owner
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