What Can Small Businesses Do To Be More Sustainable

Hand Shake Moisturizing Balm Made with 5 Natural Ingredients – Metal Packaging

A Closer Look at Sustainability and Businesses

Purchasing from sustainable businesses is a growing trend, and for good reason. Last post we talked about how switching to sustainable products contributes even in a small way to the health of the world around us. But, what can small businesses do to be more sustainable?

The way we consume goods and services has a direct impact on our environment. It’s time to make conscious choices about the products we buy and the companies we support. In the following post, we take a look at the practices of Basic Naturals Skincare to see what small businesses can really do to be more sustainable.

Sustainable businesses are companies that operate in a way that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This includes reducing waste, using renewable energy, and using environmentally-friendly materials in production. (Check out this article about companies on a “Zero Waste: Sustainable Future” mission. )

Why Buy Sustainably?

Wind Power for Energy Production

When you buy from a sustainable business, you’re not just supporting that business, you’re also supporting a better future for the planet. For example, a company that uses wind power to run its factory reduces its carbon footprint, reducing the impact of climate change. Similarly, a business that uses recycled materials in its products helps to reduce waste and conserve resources.

One of the main benefits of purchasing from sustainable businesses is that it promotes the use of environmentally-friendly products and processes. When more people start to buy from these companies, it signals to other businesses that there’s a demand for sustainable products, encouraging them to follow suit. The more there are of “us” the better the results for us and our planet.

In addition to supporting the environment, buying from sustainable businesses also supports the local economy. When you purchase products from local businesses, you’re keeping money within the community, which can have a positive impact on the local economy.

Moreover, sustainable businesses often have strong values and a commitment to social responsibility. (Check out local eco-spot, Eco Evolution, in South Norwalk, CT for many examples of sustainable small business vendors and products. This guy is really on a mission!). Did you know that some companies may donate a portion of their profits to organizations that support environmental conservation or social justice. By buying from these businesses, you’re also supporting their commitment to making a positive impact in the world.

Basic Naturals Owner On His E-Bike with Groceries & Deliveries

How Does Basic Naturals Skincare Act Sustainably?

As a brand, Basic Naturals Skincare prides themselves on their sustainable practices.

Here are some examples of what a small business can do to be more sustainable:

  1. Use eco-friendly packaging: Basic Naturals uses recyclable packaging for all the products they produce. Shipments are packed in boxes made from recycled cardboard, recycled paper and filler is used for protection of bottles. Of course, products are packaged in recyclable bottles and containers, too! These practices help to reduce the amount of non-biodegradable materials used.
  2. By using only natural and organic ingredients; Basic Naturals reduces the use of synthetic chemicals and supports sustainable agriculture practices. Additionally, the products themselves are more healthy for the end-user and do not pollute our water systems.
  3. Reduce carbon footprint: One cool way that Basic Naturals reduces their carbon footprint is by providing local deliveries on e-bike. (*Founder Yaniv converted his bicycle to electronic motor so he can zoom around town with no emissions!) Additionally, the brand sources ingredients locally and from minimal vendors. They compost waste materials, and keep the ingredient list short! They even have solar panels that feed the grid providing CT with a renewable energy boost!
  4. Implement sustainable practices in production: Basic Naturals Skincare makes all their products in small batches using an electric stove top and e-appliances. This helps reduce waste in their production process by using energy-efficient equipment, reusing or recycling materials, and minimizing water usage.
  5. Educate consumers: The brand got their start at farmer’s markets and continues to focus their mission to educate consumers. The importance of sustainability and adopting eco-friendly practices is their way of life in and out of business. As a family the business owners compost, reduce packaged waste, eat a plant based diet, use green products, and grow their own food in season. What can you do to be more eco-friendly?

Thinking Forward To The Future

By implementing these practices, Basic Naturals Skincare reduces their impact on the environment and contributes to a more sustainable future. These are just a few examples of things that small businesses can do to be more sustainable and eco-friendly. By taking small steps, businesses can make a big impact on the environment and their bottom line.

In conclusion, purchasing from sustainable businesses, like Basic Naturals Skincare, is a simple and effective way to make a positive impact on the environment. It’s a conscious choice that we can all make to help create a more sustainable future. So next time you’re in the market for a new product, take the time to research and choose a sustainable option that aligns with your values.

Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet

Skin care in the fall season - basic-naturals
Skin Repair for Eczema and More!
A Sustainable Skincare Product from Skinimalist Company @Basic_Naturals

Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet

How can we clean up this mess?

In recent years, consumer choices have made a huge impact on the environment- the evidence of this negative impact has been growing with plastic waste collecting in islands in oceans and microplastics turning up in food and water. Incredibly, statistics show that the average American household contains 300,000 items. (How Much Stuff Is In the Average American Home?). One way we can make a significant impact is by making educated choices about the products we purchase. While Minimalism is not for everyone, maybe a reminder to practice good judgement at each purchase can be a helpful tool for consuming less waste while saving money and space!

When you change your personal care over to sustainable eco-friendly brands you are not only supporting brands that are better for the planet, they are most often better for your skin too. In this article, we will explore the benefits of purchasing from sustainable skincare brands, and provide some tips for finding the best eco-friendly products for your skincare routine.

Plastic Waste Engulfs a Path
A Reminder of the Importance of Purchasing Responsibly

Why Should I Purchase Sustainably? Why does it matter what products I buy?

You may be asking yourself, why me? How much change can I generate as one person or household? Surprisingly, or not, the beauty industry has a significant impact on the environment. They may come in small containers and be purchased only once a month, but the amount of waste that personal care products carry with them is impactful.

The production of cosmetics and personal care products requires large amounts of water, energy, and raw materials, and generates waste and pollution throughout the supply chain. Many cosmetic ingredients, including microplastics, can harm marine life and ecosystems when they enter waterways.

Packaging waste is also a significant issue, with millions of tons of plastic and other materials ending up in landfills or oceans each year. Additionally, the transportation and distribution of these products contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and other environmental impacts. Overall, the beauty industry has a responsibility to prioritize sustainability and reduce its environmental footprint.

Consequently, if we as consumers continue to purchase from brands that do not prioritize this mission to clean up and preserve our planet, the companies that maintain wasteful practices will continue to thrive and cause environmental damage to our home. With each purchase that shifts the market towards sustainable brands, we can generate change together. Sustainable Skincare, Sustainable Planet.

Sales of Sustainable Products in the U.S. Increased Between 2014 and 2021F

Why Should I Choose Sustainable Skincare Products?

There are a few key reasons why choosing sustainable skincare products is beneficial:

  1. Reducing your environmental footprint: Many traditional skincare products contain harmful chemicals and contribute to pollution when they are produced and disposed of. Sustainable brands have best practices that require them to act responsibly with regards to production, disposal, labor and water usage. By choosing eco-friendly products, we can each reduce our impact on the environment and help preserve natural resources.
  2. Better for your skin: “Naturally”, sustainable skincare products are often made with natural ingredients that are gentler on the skin. Correspondingly, formulas that protect the skin barrier tend to be more healthy overall. Systemically and environmentally improving health. Many people find that these products can be more effective in improving skin health and reducing the risk of irritation or allergic reactions.
  3. Support for ethical companies: Many sustainable skincare brands are committed to ethical and socially responsible practices. By supporting brands like these you can help promote positive change and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Tips for Finding the Best Eco-Friendly Skincare Products

If you’re interested in purchasing sustainable skincare products, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. Look for natural ingredients: One of the key benefits of eco-friendly skincare products is that they often use natural, plant-based ingredients. Products that use ingredients like aloe vera, mango or shea butter, olive oil and coconut oil, are gentle and nourishing for the skin. (Basic Naturals uses only all-natural ingredients and minimally processing!)
  2. Check for eco-friendly packaging: Another important aspect of sustainability is packaging. Look for products that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging, or that use minimal packaging to reduce waste. (BN uses minimal packaging to reduce waste, recycled packing materials and boxes for shipments, e-bike deliveries for locals, and recyclable packaging!)
  3. Research the company’s sustainability practices: Before purchasing from a particular brand, take some time to research their sustainability practices. Look for companies that prioritize ethical sourcing, use renewable energy, and have a commitment to reducing waste and carbon emissions.
  4. Consider the product’s lifecycle: When choosing skincare products, consider their entire lifecycle – from production to disposal. Look for products that are made with minimal environmental impact, and that can be safely and easily disposed of when you’re finished using them.

A Challenge for You!

#SustainableSkincareSustainablePlanet

We dare you! This month try to change over at least 2 of the products you currently use in your household to a more sustainable version. Additionally, when you purchase from sustainable, eco-friendly skincare brands it is a great way to reduce your environmental footprint. Let’s call this challenges #SustainableSkincareSustainablePlanet. Eventually, let’s work towards total conversion to sustainabile homes bit by bit. Sustainable living is a lifestyle that starts with small changes one thing at a time. Or two!

By following these tips, you can find high-quality products that are both effective and gentle on your skin, while also contributing to a more sustainable future and a healthier home for all. So, let’s go!