Sustainability & Responsibility Pledge
Even though I'm a small, one-person show, every little bit counts when it comes to looking after our planet. Just because my output is small doesn't mean my impact should be negative! I'm passionate about creating beautiful, unique pieces without costing the earth. So, I'm all about crafting with care, minimizing my footprint, and keeping things ethical.
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Curious about how Just Plain Charming is doing its part (and plans to do even more)? Read on to discover the steps I'm taking now, and the plans I have for the future, to become an even more sustainable and responsible business.
Latest Updates
2025 + Beyond
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Teaming up with Ecologi with every order planting a tree somewhere in the world and selected nature items going towards planting trees in the UK
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Development of sustainability and responsibility pledge
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Currently using up old stock of envelopes bought in bulk a number of years ago which are old packing with a thin layer of bubble wrap. Once used up moving to boxes to post jewellery products
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Plan to develop new line of products using ‘bench scraps’ or unused pieces of metal
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Introducing gold into work - will be recycled supplied from Cookson Gold
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Taking steps to make all jewellery items hallmarked to ensure quality regardless of weight limits
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Research into GSPR to see what work can be done to resume shipping to EU
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2024
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Change supplier for packaging slips/business cards/earring cards to a small business local supplier using recycled cardstock: Purki Doodles
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Development of branded bookmarks as an option instead of business cards to promote reuse
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Switch packaging to Kite Packaging - 100% recyclable and sustainably sourced
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Hivewrap
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Paper bags
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Starch based fill - 100% biodegradable and 100% compostable
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Cardboard Boxes - 60-90% recycled card
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Paper Tape
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Signed on new casting company Merrell Casting using 100% recycled metals
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Implementation of air source heat pump at home office and green energy plan
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Registering for hallmarking for jewellery products
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Ceasing shipping (hopefully temporarily) to EU due to change in GSPR regulations
Sustainability
So what do we mean when we say sustainability? 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. Basically, I want to run my business without compromising the ability of future you's to enjoy the same beautiful planet! So, here's the lowdown on how Just Plain Charming is doing its part:
Materials
I'm a big fan of giving things a second life! I exclusively use recycled metals and use ethically sourced materials whenever I can. My jewellery features recycled sterling silver along with responsibly sourced gemstones. For my ceramics, I use local clays and lead-free, non-toxic glazes. And I'm always on the lookout for new, eco-friendly options!
Production
Waste? No thank you! I carefully plan my designs to minimise scraps, and any leftover bits and bobs are reused or recycled. Plus, everything is handmade by yours truly, which is much more energy-efficient than mass production. I use casting services when I need to make things in a more efficient way.
Packaging
Your goodies arrive in eco-friendly packaging made from recycled and biodegradable materials. I use recycled tissue paper with a paper-based sticker, and the gift boxes are made from sustainably sourced, partially recycled materials – they're biodegradable, compostable, and recyclable! Plus, I stamp my logo on them so they can be reused again and again. The companies I use are Tiny Box (90% recycled, recyclable or compostable), and Kite Packaging (a certified carbon-neutral company). Even my earring/necklace cards and thank you slips are made from recycled kraft card from Purkidoodles.
Care
I want your pieces to last! That's why I include a care card with tips on keeping them looking their best, plus a Town Talk polishing cloth with most jewellery orders. It's a small thing that makes a big difference in keeping your jewellery sparkling for years. Full care info is also available on my website. I design my pieces to be loved and used for a long, long time. Longevity is key!
Continuous Improvement
I'm always learning and growing! I'm committed to constantly reviewing and improving my practices to shrink my environmental footprint and find even more sustainable ways of doing things. I will be updating this page with a timeline so you can see just what I am working on at JPC.
Responsibility
Let's talk ethics – because being a responsible business is just as important as being a sustainable one. For me, "responsible" means a few key things and you can find some of these listed below
Ethical Sourcing
When it comes to gemstones and materials, I'm committed to ethical sourcing. No piece of jewellery should come at the cost of human suffering or environmental damage. I want your beautiful pieces to reflect your values, inside and out.
Fair Labour
As a one-woman show, I am working to ensure pricing adequately covers my labor and that I am fairly compensated! This is important not only to me but the industry as a whole ensuring pieces are fairly priced and the labour taken to create unique pieces is compensated. And if I ever expand and bring others on board, fair wages and excellent working conditions will be a top priority.
Transparency
I believe in open communication. I'm happy to answer any questions you have about my materials, processes, or the story behind your piece. I want you to know exactly what you're getting. I no one is perfect and there is always more to do and I want to be honest about my journey about continuous improvement and also take any suggestions you may have.
Community Support
I love supporting my local community! I source materials locally whenever possible and enjoy being part of local markets and events. It's all about supporting each other!
Respect for Craft
I'm passionate about the traditional crafts of jewellery making and ceramics. I'm committed to keeping these skills alive and passing them on. Each piece is made with love, care, and a whole lot of attention to detail.
Upholding the Law
Sadly, not all businesses play by the rules. But for me, staying up-to-date on all the legal stuff is absolutely essential. From hallmarking regulations to GDPR and EU laws (GSPR), I take steps to try to make sure I'm always in the know. I believe businesses have a responsibility to operate in a way that serves the public good.