Sustainability
Clean up...
It doesn't take a genius to work out the waste problem worldwide is well and truly beyond!
The problem isn't that everyday households aren't recycling. The problem is that they're constantly subjected to products and packaging that aren't good for the environment. The latest and greatest new gadgets are often, if not always, packaged in some form of plastic.
The gifts of nature are slowly but surely becoming extinct due to our own doing. For many years we've pumped unbelievable amounts of plastic into the earth. And we need to change.
Manaaki whenua...Manaaki tangata
If every business implemented sustainability at every turn - it could completely revolutionise the world we live in...for generations to come!
Perhaps we were meant for such a time as this...
We can always do more...but I'm so happy to live in a creatively caring era with a generation that's taking note of the impact they have on the environment. I constantly notice new businesses with exciting alternatives and innovative solutions. The implementation of new sustainability initiatives are overwhelming, worthy of embrace.
Who would've thought?
- Clothing made from recycled plastic bottles
- Solar powered devices and compostable audio accessories.
- Filament and wool produced from old soft drink bottles - later turned into beanies for people on the street experiencing homelessness.
In New Zealand - we are more than capable of similar achievements as many have proven:
- Eco-friendly - just add water - cleaning tablets with reusable glass bottles
- Pallet furniture and bees wax wraps
- Eco-friendly food cartons and coffee cups. Even edible coffee cups, possibly my favourite invention to date! ;)
- The comeback of the reusable nappy and the introduction of eco-friendly menstruation products
- Gift hampers packaged in reusable bags made from harakeke - a style of packaging Māori have embraced throughout history finally surfacing - in need of sharing with the world!
And the list goes on...The gradual shift is admirable and the continuity I sense is heartwarming. Of course, we can't change the past, if only it was that simple...but to do nothing would be worse.
If not now, then when?
Of course, not everyone wants to change. Despite the many like-minded business owners out there, sadly, many simply refuse. And as an individual, what can you do? Other than consider the impact you're having yourself.
Obviously no one's perfect but in light of the issues we’re facing in the world, there's no time like the present.
The Avah Kelly Collection
Bar soap instantly eliminates plastic bottles, a huge contributor to the waste problem. Going back to bar soap is essential.
The Avah Kelly Collection of soap is not only naturally made - we also strive to source better solutions in terms of sustainability, from start to finish. We purchase in bulk to reduce waste, and we recycle and reuse wherever possible. We constantly seek the most effective and efficient processes to eliminate unnecessary waste and to lower emissions.
We're committed to sustainable solutions with every package we send out.
Our soap labels and gift cards are made from 160gsm FSC-certified card, and our mailing/gift boxes are made from e-flute cardboard - both of which are made from ethically sourced materials and 100% recyclable. You will notice we don't have plastic or 'shrink' wrap on our soaps or our packaging...and we never will! Obviously, our soap will never look as pretty as a plastic wrapped soap. And you'll find petals, oats or salt etc. will fall off from time to time. But it's a small price to pay to help eliminate one of the biggest problems we are facing in terms of the world we live in - plastic waste! The problem with single use plastic is that once it's thrown into landfill, it isn't going anywhere…
Our mailers are secured with water activated, eco-friendly paper tape and we use recyclable mailers made from recycled plastic, not only to ensure products arrive waterproof, but to reduce our carbon footprint.
It's a privilege being able to produce natural, handmade soap for the community but what good would it be if we were contributing to the never-ending, ever-increasing tonnes of landfill?
If you have any suggestions or you're marketing an innovative new packaging idea - we'd love to hear from you.
And in all you do - Live, Laugh & Love...
But the greatest of these is LOVE!