Sustainable Toothpaste: Introduction
Welcome to this week’s sustainability tip where, today, we discuss the importance of sustainable toothpaste. From packaging and production to disposal, every tube of traditional toothpaste carries a story of environmental impact.
That’s why we have prepared this guide to help you understand the issues with conventional toothpaste. We will look at the benefits of sustainable toothpaste options, and introduce you to brands that are making a positive impact on our planet.
We hope that this week’s tip inspires you to choose sustainable toothpaste products. You can support brands that prioritise the environment, and make small changes in your daily routines that can have a big impact on the world around us. Remember, every brush counts!
Non Sustainable Toothpaste: The History
Toothpaste has come a long way since its inception over 7,000 years ago. The Egyptians concocted the first toothpaste by mixing powdered ashes of ox hooves, myrrh, eggshells, and pumice around 5000 BC.
By the 4th century AD, toothpaste formulas had spread and evolved throughout empires. The Romans preferred versions that contained crushed bones and oyster shells to whiten teeth. A significant breakthrough occurred in the 9th century when a Persian musician and fashion designer named Ziryab invented toothpaste that was both functional and pleasant tasting.
In 1873, Colgate introduced the first toothpaste in a jar, which was a simple cream. However, by 1892, Dr. Washington Sheffield of Connecticut had revolutionised the consumer experience by inventing the collapsible toothpaste tube. These early tubes were made of lead, posing health risks. It wasn’t until the mid-20th century that safer plastic tubes were introduced.
This progression highlights the need for continual innovation towards sustainable toothpaste packaging and ingredients.
Non Sustainable Toothpaste: Environmental Impact
Did you know that traditional toothpaste can cause a number of environmental challenges? This is primarily due to the packaging and chemical content of the product. For instance, every year, around 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes are discarded globally. Most of these are made from a combination of plastics and aluminium that are not biodegradable.
As a result, these tubes can take up to 500 years to decompose in landfills, contributing significantly to global plastic pollution. Aside from the waste issue, traditional toothpaste formulas often contain harmful chemicals like triclosan and sodium lauryl sulfate. These substances can persist in the environment long after they’ve been rinsed down the drain. This causes harm to wildlife and potentially disrupts marine ecosystems.
Triclosan, for instance, has been linked to the disruption of hormonal systems in aquatic animals and the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. Additionally, the production of toothpaste consumes considerable resources, including water and energy, thereby adding to its environmental footprint. It’s therefore essential for us as consumers to consider the broader environmental implications of our oral hygiene habits.
Read on to discover what to look for in sustainable toothpaste options that help reduce these environmental burdens and support a healthier planet.
Sustainable Toothpaste: What to Look For
Traditional toothpaste poses several environmental challenges, primarily due to the synthetic additives and plastic packaging they contain. Therefore, when selecting sustainable toothpaste, it’s essential to consider ingredients, packaging, and the practices of the manufacturing company. Toothpastes that use natural and organic ingredients are less harmful to the environment.
These natural ingredients are not only safer for you but also minimise the ecological impact once they enter our water systems. Packaging also plays a critical role in sustainability. Look for toothpaste brands that use recyclable, biodegradable, or even zero-waste packaging. Options such as glass jars or metal tins, can significantly reduce plastic waste.
Some innovative companies offer toothpaste tablets or powders in compostable pouches or refillable containers, drastically cutting down on disposable plastic. Additionally, check for certifications that ensure environmental and health safety standards, such as EcoCert, or Leaping Bunny, which guarantees that products are cruelty-free. These labels help consumers identify products that meet stringent environmental and ethical criteria
Lastly, supporting brands that are transparent about their supply chain and production practices can make a significant difference. Companies that practice responsible sourcing and manufacture locally reduce transportation emissions, further lowering the carbon footprint of their products. By paying attention to these factors, you can make a choice that benefits both your health and the environment.
Sustainable Toothpaste: Three of Our Favourite Brands
Happier
Our first brand, Happier Beauty is dedicated to creating happier smiles with less waste. Their toothpaste is formulated with natural ingredients and comes in fully recyclable aluminum tubes, paired with a recyclable dispenser. Committed to transparency, Happier Beauty provides a clear breakdown of ingredients and their origins, ensuring consumers can make informed, eco-friendly choices.
If you head over to their website, you can subscribe and save 20% on every order. Plus there is no tie in and you can cancel anytime.
Parla
Our next brand, Parla offers a unique approach with their innovative toothpaste tabs, designed for minimal environmental impact and maximum oral health benefits. These tabs are not only made from natural ingredients but are also packaged in refillable glass jars. Parla’s products are perfect for eco-minded individuals looking for a convenient, travel-friendly dental care solution that reduces plastic waste.
Use code PARLA20 on their website to take advantage of a 20% discount on your first order.
Georganics
Our final brand, Georganics leads in eco-conscious dental care with their extensive range of natural, organic toothpaste and mouthwashes. Their products are packaged in zero-waste containers, like glass jars and compostable cartons, sourced from local ingredients to minimise their carbon footprint. Georganics is committed to promoting sustainable habits that benefit both oral health and the environment.
Head over to their website and take advantage of an exclusive 15% discount using code PLAYITGREEN15. Minimum purchase £15 and new customers only.
Sustainable Toothpaste: Wrap Up
By choosing sustainable toothpaste from brands like Georganics, Happier Beauty, and Parla Toothpaste Tabs, you’re not only caring for your dental health but also supporting environmentally responsible practices. These brands are pioneering the movement towards a greener future in dental care, showcasing that our everyday choices can make a significant impact on the health of our planet.
Let’s continue to support these innovations in sustainability, and remember, every small choice adds up to a big difference. Join us in this journey towards a cleaner, greener future, one smile at a time.
Play It Green: Empowering Your Sustainability Journey
Ready to take your commitment to sustainability to the next level? Play It Green stands as your partner in creating positive environmental change. From educational resources on sustainable practices and signposting to sustainable services to initiatives like tree planting and social giving, Play It Green offers a holistic approach to environmental stewardship.
Join us in the journey toward sustainability—embrace eco-conscious practices and be a force for positive change in our world. All whilst staying relevant, meeting legislation and aligning with the values of today’s consumers and employees.
