Product Packaging
At Steep & Spice, environmental sustainability is at the core of our mission. In keeping with this, the first thing we consider when developing new products is the packaging. Because most packaging is discarded by consumers, we are particularly concerned with ensuring that our packaging will have the most minimal impact when it joins the waste stream. We believe that sustainable packaging is the perfect complement to our sustainably sourced loose leaf tea. Read on to learn about the different packaging elements that we use and how they should be disposed.
Tea Tins:
Using tins for tea is certainly not new, but we have done our due diligence to ensure that it is the best option from a sustainable perspective. Tins are 40x lighter than glass which lowers the carbon emissions used in shipping. Tins are also infinitely recyclable, unlike paper or plastic. Unlike paper, tins do not contribute to deforestation. Metal containers are the most recycled material in the world, meaning tins are more likely to be recycled by consumers. Finally, tins provide the highest amount of light blocking which reduces the rate that tea loses its flavor. This cuts down on food waste which ultimately reduces carbon emissions by reducing production and shipping.
Tin Labels:
Our labels are fully compostable and curbside recycleable. Simply remove from the tin when ready to discard and place in the correct receptacle.
Adhesive Seal Closures:
Our 100g tins are sealed for freshness with compostable seal closures.
Shrink Wrap:
Our 20g tins are sealed for freshness with POF shrink wrap, which is 100% recyclable.
Shipping Box:
Our boxes are made out of 50% recycled material and are fully curbside recyclable.
Shipping Tape:
Our tape is biodegradable and can be throw out with the trash or composted.
Shipping Void Fill:
Our void fill consists of crinkle paper shred and/or tissue paper. These materials are made of 100% post-consumer waste and can be either composted or recycled.
Product Wrapping:
During shipping, each of our tins is wrapped in paper to reduce damage in transit. This paper is made from 100% recycled material and can be composted or recycled.
Shipping Label:
Our shipping labels are made of 100% recycled material and come supplied on zero-waste liners. Both are curbside recyclable.