Sitting down with a book or sinking into a luxe bath feels better under the glow of a fragrant candle. These self-care moments would be even more special if you or someone else made the candle from scratch. Sustainable candlemaking can craft a brighter future for the environment, so now may be the time to pick up this new hobby.
Traditional Candle Toxins and Their Alternatives
Store-bought candles may contain paraffin wax made from petroleum, and burning it releases volatile organic compounds like benzene and acetone. These compounds can contribute to the creation of particulate matter, which may lead to respiratory problems, among other health concerns.
For a more positive environmental impact, candlemakers use wax alternatives such as:
Beeswax
Soy
Coconut
Other plant-based materials
Scents and wicks are another debacle. Fragrances containing phthalates may disrupt your hormones, and some wicks contain lead or zinc. In 2003, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission restricted the amount of lead a metal-cored wick can have, but compostable fibers like cotton or salvaged wood are often cleaner choices.
Components of Sustainable Candles
A candle’s eco-friendliness depends on its container, ingredients and disposability. Natural scents are a nice bonus, but using sustainable components can make a candle burn longer. Pure soy wax burns 35%-50% longer than paraffin wax.
Candles should also be thoughtfully packaged. Glass is ideal since it can be recycled without a decrease in quality, extending the container’s life cycle beyond the wick and wax’s lives.
Renewable and ethically sourced ingredients are essential. Acquiring your candle-making tools locally supports your community’s economy. Anything remaining in the container at the end of its life should be safely biodegradable and recyclable, but you can also use any remaining unmelted wax to make a new candle.
Climate-Conscious Candlemaking
Next time you sit down for a romantic dinner, light your eco-conscious candle. Making environmentally friendly items can discourage manufacturers from using harmful, polluting ingredients. Concocting the perfect scent will be just as gratifying as breathing in something handmade and sustainable.
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