Think about it. The preference for sustainability is increasingly becoming a necessary component of daily conversation, what more with the looming environmental threat brought on by excessive consumerism.
As a result, the shift towards purchasing eco-friendly products has pervaded every aspect of our lives, including the candles we choose to illuminate our spaces.
Choosing sustainable candles over conventional ones need not be a difficult task to adopt — we're here to enlighten you about the environmental impact of conventional candles, and we'll also show you how you can use candles that align with a more sustainable lifestyle.
What Makes a Candle Sustainable?
The quest for sustainable candles is a necessary shift towards more environmentally-friendly practices. Candles have been a part of human culture for centuries, serving as sources of light, a means of celebration, and an aid for relaxation and meditation.
However, not all candles are created equal in terms of their environmental impact.
Sustainable candles, distinguished by their materials, production processes, and business practices, offer a greener alternative to conventional options.
These candles are typically made from natural, renewable sources such as soy wax, beeswax, or coconut wax, avoiding the petroleum-based paraffin wax that dominates the candle industry.
Soy wax, beeswax, and coconut wax are among the most sustainable options for candle making, as the materials are renewable, biodegradable, and burn cleaner than paraffin wax, producing fewer soot particles and toxic chemicals.
The sustainability of the wax is further enhanced when it is sourced from organic, non-GMO crops or responsibly managed apiaries and beekeeping practices.
A candle's sustainability is also determined by the source of the wick, the fragrance ingredients, and the packaging.
The wicks of sustainable, eco-friendly candles are usually crafted from natural fibers such as wood and cotton, doing away with the metal core often found in traditional candles, which can release harmful toxins when burned.
When considering the fragrances used in sustainable candles, they should best be derived from natural essential oils or phthalate-free synthetic scents to avoid releasing toxic chemicals into the air.
Sustainable candle brands are also known to use recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials and minimalistic designs to reduce waste.
The commitment of the brand to sustainability practices, such as carbon offsetting or supporting environmental causes, further contributes to the overall sustainability of the candle.
This holistic approach to sustainability ensures that every aspect of the candle, from inception to the end of its life, is considered and optimized for minimal environmental impact.
Uh-oh: Understanding the Environmental Impact of Conventional Candles
Conventional candles, predominantly made from paraffin wax, a byproduct of petroleum refining, pose several environmental concerns.
The extraction and processing of petroleum contributes to pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and the depletion of non-renewable resources — all are detrimental to the health of the planet.
Paraffin candles can also emit toxic chemicals when burned, including toluene and benzene, which are harmful to both human health and the environment.
Meanwhile, the wicks and fragrances commonly used in conventional candles can pose risks of their own.
Conventional candle wicks often contain lead or zinc cores, which, when burned, release harmful metals into the air; this causes indoor air pollution and poses sufficient risks to respiratory health.
Air pollution is further exacerbated by the synthetic fragrances used in conventional candles, which are derived from petrochemicals and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air.
The packaging and production processes associated with conventional candles also often overlook sustainability. Excessive packaging, non-recyclable materials, and energy-intensive manufacturing practices add to the environmental footprint of these candles, making them a less sustainable choice for eco-conscious consumers.
Benefits of Using Sustainable Candles
Transitioning to sustainable candles for use at home or elsewhere offers numerous benefits, both environmental and personal.
- Sustainable candles reduce environmental degradation
Sustainable candles utilize renewable resources, minimize emissions of toxic chemicals, and employ eco-friendly packaging and production practices. The choice for sustainable candles better supports sustainable agriculture and beekeeping, promotes cleaner air quality, and aligns with broader environmental conservation efforts.
- Sustainable candles ensure good air quality
From a personal health perspective, sustainable candles provide a safer alternative for indoor air quality — by avoiding the toxic emissions associated with paraffin wax and synthetic fragrances, sustainable candles ensure a cleaner burn, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals.
This is particularly beneficial for individuals with allergies, asthma, or other respiratory sensitivities.
- Sustainable candles encourage sustainable aromatherapy
Sustainable candles often feature higher quality ingredients, including natural essential oils, which provides for a longer burn time, plus therapeutic benefits.
The aromatherapy potential of these economically-viable candles can enhance relaxation, stress relief, and overall well-being, making them a valuable addition to any wellness routine.
Using Sustainable Candles for Wellness and Self-Care
Sustainable candles can play a pivotal role in wellness and self-care routines, offering a source of natural light, a calming ambiance, and therapeutic aromatherapy benefits.
The gentle, flickering light of a candle can aid in relaxation and meditation, create a romantic ambiance, or promote a serene atmosphere conducive to stress relief and mindfulness practices.
On the other hand, the natural fragrances derived from essential oils in sustainable candles such as energizing citrus, or calming lavender, can reliably enhance mental well-being, and contribute to a healthier, more fulfilled lifestyle.
Beyond their functional and wellness benefits, sustainable candles also offer aesthetic value, serving as elegant additions to home decor. The variety of shapes, sizes, and colors available allows for endless creativity in styling spaces, from minimalist designs to eclectic arrangements.
Tips for Maintaining Candle Longevity
- Basic candle care involves trimming the wick to the recommended length before each use, ensuring a cleaner burn and preventing soot build-up.
- Candles should be burned for the optimal amount of time to achieve an even melt pool, avoiding tunneling and ensuring the maximum use of the wax.
- Avoiding exposure to direct sunlight and heat can preserve the candle's fragrance and color, while storing candles in a cool, dry place can prevent warping and melting.
Sustainable Candle Brands
As the transparency and sustainability practices of candle brands play a crucial role in the decision-making process for sustainable candle purchase, brands are increasingly more forthcoming about their sourcing, production, and environmental initiatives — these brands are more likely to offer genuinely sustainable products that suits the needs of different values and lifestyles.
Brands such as Freedom Flames - based in metropolitan Singapore - are renowned for using natural, renewable materials, and are committed to eco-friendly, sustainable business practices.
Their high-quality candle products come in a range of scents to suit every occasion, are stylishly minimalistic to suit bespoke themes, and come with the added benefit of affordability for prospective buyers.
Conclusion: Lighting Up a Sustainable Life
Embracing sustainable candles is not only reduces our environmental footprint; it is a commitment to a philosophy that values well-being, aesthetic pleasure, and ecological responsibility.
Truth be told, the shift towards choosing sustainable candles is a meaningful, pivotal step in the journey towards a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
As more individuals make this shift, the collective impact on the environment can be significant, lighting the way towards a brighter, more sustainable future, one candle at a time.
