Biodegradable Lip Balm Tubes
When reaching for a lip balm, we usually consider the flavour first, perhaps the hero ingredient and then not-as-often the full list of ingredients. But how often do we consider the vessel and packaging in our purchasing decision for a lip balm?
There is a growing community of lip balm users who are re-considering their lip balm purchases based on the biodegradability of the product tube/vessel and packaging. And why? Well the numbers might shock you, but did you know that over 200 million plastic lip balm tubes end up in landfill or our oceans every YEAR.
If you weren't already convinced, consider these reasons why biodegradable tubes are the way of the future for lip balms!
Environmental impact! Plastic takes hundreds of years to decompose, and the production and disposal of plastic products like lip balm tubes contribute to plastic waste, which harms wildlife and pollutes the environment. This is a concern for those who are environmentally conscious and want to minimize their impact on the planet.
Another reason is health concerns. Some plastic tubes may contain harmful chemicals that can potentially leach into the lip balm and be ingested. This is especially concerning for products that are used frequently and applied to sensitive areas like the lips. Using lip balms with natural ingredients or packaging can reduce this risk.
Additionally, quality concerns exist with some plastic tube based lip balm producers, as many may contain petroleum-based ingredients that might not be as effective at moisturizing the lips as natural alternatives. Plastic tubes are also prone to cracking or breaking, which can cause the product to dry out or become contaminated.
Moreover, choosing to purchase lip balm in plastic tubes can perpetuate a culture of disposable, single-use products. By selecting more sustainable options, such as reusable jars/tins or compostable packaging, we can reduce our environmental impact and encourage businesses to prioritize sustainability in their products. The ethical implications involved in plastic product production span beyond the obvious poor working conditions or low wages for workers in manufacturing plants. By selecting sustainable products and supporting ethical practices, we can promote a more sustainable future.
It's important to be aware of these considerations and choose products that align with your values and priorities, which is why Wild Emery lip balms (and lip balm boxes) are produced with custom designed, biodegradable cardboard that you can compost at home once used. We pride ourselves in making sustainable (recyclable or biodegradable) packaging decisions that align with out vision and focus.