How do I find eco-friendly manufacturers?
This is the ultimate question, lol.
Eco-friendly manufacturing can happen on many different levels. Below I have given a few companies that I work with that do offer recycled paper or recyclable products. But, to go deeper, I wanted to give you some ideas that would help your search and also share a couple products that tend to be eco-friendly in nature.
Let's start with a couple terms to search:
GOTS: Global Organic Textile Standard: This looks at how your textiles have been manufactured, harvested and labeled.
Oeko- Tex: This certification ensures that there are no harmful chemicals used in the manufacturing process.
Recycled: Reusing or repurposing a product for a different use.
I would start by searching the product you want to manufacture and one of these terms, for example “tea towels, Oeko-Tex, USA." This will start the process. Once you find a company to use, request samples.
Companies I work with:
Printswell Fullfillment: I use them for my greeting cards and gift tags, they have recycled paper option, which I love and use.
Stickermule: I use them for my packing tape which is made from Kraft paper and is an eco-friendly alternative to plastic tapes.
Ecoenclose: I use them for my plastic free mailers.
Eco-friendly products:
washi tape: standard washi tape is recyclable and is made from rice paper. If you add foil to it- that changes everything! If you manufacture this on your own, you could opt for no shrink wrap to eliminate plastic.
Swedish Dishcloths: often made of cellulose and fiber, these can be made with water based inks to add to their appeal.
POD: In my opinion, part of being eco-friendly is doing small runs or print on demand. This offers a great option when you are starting out and also eliminates over production and waste.
There are so many ways you can make your business eco-friendly. It is a great thing to be mindful of and implement as you go.
