Earth Month is here and what better time to reflect on the ways in which we can all practice sustainability and environmental friendliness in our everyday lives? At Rose Inc, we try our best to do this on the daily — whether it’s via ethically sourced ingredients or mindful packaging choices. “I think sustainable packaging has had the stigma that it can’t be beautiful too,” says Erin Ewing, Rose Inc’s Director of Packaging Development. “I think what's unique about our packaging is that we show this isn’t true. I love that we push the boundaries of what's possible.”
Below, in honor of Earth Month, Ewing and Rose Inc’s Senior Manager of Packaging Development Samatha Nantau go into detail about Rose Inc’s packaging and the sustainability practices that are important to them.
– Erin Ewing
How do you define sustainable packaging?
Sustainable packaging to me is something that's either recycled, as in using already recycled components to create new packaging. Another way packaging can be sustainable is by creating new materials that can be recycled. It can come from either end. The goal is to have both.
Do you have any tips on how people can more easily incorporate recycling practices into their lives?
It’s easy to get really intimidated and think everything has to change at once, but it’s all about starting small by stepping outside of your comfort zone. Try something refillable if you never have before, or put your box in the recycling bin if you usually throw it in the trash. It doesn't have to be these huge changes to your life. There are small things you can do to make a difference.
– Erin Ewing
In what ways is the Rose Inc Packaging sustainable?
When sourcing components for Rose Inc, we always want to make sure we use PCR plastic if available, which means post-consumer recycled plastic. At least 30% of our packaging is created this way, while there are other components, such as the pumps, that are harder to recycle. All of our boxes are also FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council), making them recyclable as well. We also make sure we give clear direction on our website and on the package about how to recycle the product properly. Many of our products are also refillable, so these components can be reused over and over again.
In what ways do you hope the packaging will become even more sustainable in the future?
I would love to see us move away from plastic packaging and switch over to more glass or aluminum as much as possible.
It’s tough to get rid of plastic completely, so where we do continue to use plastic, we want to make sure we continue to operate with the same initiatives and even increase the PCR content that we have
– Erin Ewing
How do you honor Mother Earth in your personal life, not only this month, but also beyond?
We have a recycling bin in our kitchen to hold ourselves accountable. Having our bin in the cabinet underneath the sink encourages my family to recycle.
We plant a garden every spring that we have for the summer. My goal this year is to increase its size and make it bigger so we have more food options. Especially with having a little one, I want her to be involved in this process, even though she doesn't quite understand everything yet. But over time, she can see that it’s possible to grow your own foods.
Besotted
Beige pink
Satin Copper
Rich red copper
White Gold Shimmer
Light gold with pearl