Self minimizes the use of plastics : Climate marches, petitions, ocean clean ups. We are all trying our best. We take small steps and bigger steps, all for the same purpose. There is only one earth. A recurrent theme, especially with May Plastic Free now, is our evolution to a plastic free world. But how do brands develop their strategies to take those important steps to becoming a plastic free brand?

Let's zoom in on Belgian skincare brand Self. Their products are 100 % vegan and natural and all their products and packaging are produced in Belgium. But how do they score from a plastic point of view?

Self has been awarded with the Beat The Microbeads quality badge; brands that have been awarded with this badge can prove that none of their products contain any form of plastic ingredient.

Tiny plastic particles are often used in your cosmetics and personal care products as a scrubbing agent, emulsifying agent or just as cheap fillers! Washing your face or brushing your teeth with the cosmetics containing micro plastics can harm the ocean, yourself and your children.

Not all plastics are bad?

They deliberately chose plastic pots (instead of glass jars) that are produced in Europe. Plastic? Well.. They opt for a safe, high-quality plastic recycling process because it is better for the environment. It is less cumbersome, allows for energy recovery, and it also needs less water to produce, and has lower CO2 emissions. The lids and caps are also produced in Europe. They use compressed wood waste, with a recycling process that is also done in-house.

Ecological packaging: The secondary packaging consists of recycled paper that they use, in accordance with the minimum-waste principle. Packing and shipping of their products is organized as sustainably as possible. Shipping boxes are made from recycled cardboard, of shredded cardboard or of other compostable materials.

SELF's future goals

They are committed to reducing their consumption by 20% by 2021. In order to achieve this, they will work with their suppliers and manufacturers, to use more renewable energy (such as solar panels), to invest in energy recovery and to reduce CO2 foot-print, by 20 % over the next five years! And most important: They strive to work with refillable packaging within a few years.

Being an eco-friendly brand is all about research, aiming for a minimum waste policy and honest communication. Taking important steps in minimizing the use of plastics, gradually adapting and making sustainable choices along the way.