How to Upcycle Alchemitelabs Packaging Sustainably

We are passionate about creating effective, vegan aromatherapy skincare that's kind to your skin and the environment. We believe in putting skin first, and that extends to minimising our impact on the planet. That's why we're committed to sustainable practices throughout our entire process, from ethically sourcing our ingredients to ensuring our packaging is as eco-friendly as possible.

This page is your guide to responsibly disposing of, reusing, and even upcycling your ALCHEMITELABS packaging. Let's work together to reduce waste and embrace a more conscious beauty routine!

Why is Sustainable Packaging Important?

The beauty industry has a significant impact on the environment. By choosing products with recyclable or biodegradable packaging and actively participating in recycling programs, we can reduce landfill waste, conserve natural resources, and minimise our carbon footprint. We believe conscious skincare is the future, and we're proud to be part of the movement.

Our Commitment to Sustainable Packaging:

We intentionally choose our packaging materials with the environment in mind. Here's a breakdown of what goes into your ALCHEMITELABS order:

• Glass Bottles & Jars: The majority of our products are housed in beautiful and 100% recyclable glass bottles and jars. According to the British Beauty Council ' While glass is widely recycled, common decoration like opaque coloured sprays and foils can render it unrecyclable.' So we found a solution, our bottle and jars are at least semi-transparent to be recycled with removable labels and we opted for modestly decorated packaging options. ALCHEMITELABS packaging is an infinitely recyclable material, meaning it can be recycled repeatedly without losing its integrity. We use clear frosted glass to protect our precious formulas from light degradation, ensuring maximum potency and efficacy.

• Recyclable Plastics (PET & PP): Where glass isn't suitable (e.g., for pumps or certain caps), we opt for recyclable plastics like PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) and PP (Polypropylene). These are widely accepted by recycling programs across the UK.

• Protective 'Peanuts': You might find biodegradable and recyclable packing peanuts in your box. These aren't your average plastic peanuts! Ours are made from cornstarch, meaning they are compostable and dissolve in water.

• Cardboard Boxes & Paper Inserts: Our shipping boxes and any internal paper packaging are made from recycled cardboard and are fully recyclable.

• Eco-Friendly Inks: We use eco-friendly, water-based inks for printing on our packaging, reducing the release of harmful VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) into the atmosphere.

How to Recycle Your Packaging - Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Clean it Out: Thoroughly rinse out any remaining product from your bottles, jars, and containers. A small amount of soap and warm water will do the trick.

2. Separate Materials: Separate the glass jar or bottle from any plastic components like pumps, caps, or labels.

3. Check Your Local Recycling Guidelines: Visit your local borough/council’s website to understand the specific recycling guidelines in your area. They will specify which types of plastics are accepted and whether you need to remove labels.

4. Recycle Responsibly: Place the clean and separated materials into your designated recycling bins.

Dealing with Plastics:

• Pumps & Sprayers: Unfortunately, pumps and sprayers are often made from mixed materials, making them difficult to recycle. Please check with your local council prior to disposal, however some larger retailers do have specialist recycling bins for these type of harder to recycle materials.

• Caps: Check your local recycling guidelines. Many councils accept PP (polypropylene) caps in their recycling programs.

• Labels: Paper labels can usually be left on glass bottles and jars, but plastic labels should be removed if possible.

The Magic of Upcycling: Giving Your Packaging a Second Life:

Why stop at recycling? Get creative and give your ALCHEMITELABS packaging a new purpose! Here are some upcycling ideas to inspire you:

• Glass Jars:

  • Storage Containers: Perfect for storing cotton pads, makeup brushes, spices, herbs, or small office supplies.

  • Plant Propagation: Use them as stylish vases for propagating plant cuttings.

  • DIY Candles: Create beautiful homemade candles by melting wax and adding your favourite essential oils.

  • Tealight Holders:Why not use your jars as tea light holders? (Just don't forget to remove the labels)

  • Bathroom Organisation: store cotton buds, safety pins in the glass jars

• Glass Bottles:

  • Diffusers: Refill and use as a reeds diffuser

  • Vases: Display single stems flowers for a minimalist decor look. You can display the flowers as is or you can paint them.

  • DIY Serums: Mix your own homemade serums and store them in our bottles ready to use at home.

• Cardboard Boxes:

  • Storage: Storing jewellery, accessories and more, great to utilise in wardrobes.

Biodegradable 'Peanuts': A Guilt-Free Packaging Solution

Our commitment to sustainability extends to our protective packaging. The packing peanuts you find in your ALCHEMITELABS boxes are made from cornstarch, making them:

• Biodegradable: They decompose naturally, reducing landfill waste.

• Compostable: You can add them to your home compost bin.

• Water-Soluble: Simply run them under water, and they will dissolve!

Tips for Sustainable Beauty Consumption:

• Buy Less, Choose Well: Invest in high-quality, multi-purpose products that last longer.

• Refill Options: Look for brands that offer refill programs to reduce packaging waste.

• Support Sustainable Brands: Choose brands like ALCHEMITELABS that are committed to ethical and eco-friendly practices.

• DIY Beauty: Explore making your own skincare products using natural ingredients.

• Spread the Word: Encourage your friends and family to embrace sustainable beauty habits.

Join Our Sustainability Journey!

Every small action can make a big difference and by embracing responsible recycling and upcycling practices, we can collectively contribute to a healthier planet. We're constantly exploring new ways to improve our sustainability efforts, and we encourage you to join us on this journey. Together as a skincare community, we can create a more beautiful and sustainable future for all.