If you've been on social media this week you've probably seen one too many Earth Day and World Ocean Day posts from the brands you follow. But which brands are actually making the effort all year round? The climate crisis is at the forefront of everyone's mind and we often feel powerless to do anything about it. Of all the things we're told to do to protect the environment (recycling, travelling less, using less electricity...) no one really talks about one of our greatest sources of power as consumers. Studies show that consumer decisions have a bigger influence on the environment than anything else. Making conscious decisions about the products we're buying and putting on our bodies and into our environment is something we all have to start doing. Here are some of the brands which have made a commitment to actively preserve the environment and how they're going about it:
ISDIN
I fell in love with ISDIN Fusion Water a few years ago because it was the first sunscreen I had ever used which felt truly invisible. No facial sunscreen has ever come close to delivering the same weightless formula and velvety finish. Not only is ISDIN continually researching ways to eradicate skin cancer and provide sun protection to countries in need, but it is also B Corporation Certified. This certification is awarded to companies which place environmental sustainability at the forefront of their practices. ISDIN has promised to develop sustainable products, with over 95% of packaging being eco-designed and using a minimum of 25% recycled materials. ISDIN also promises to work towards the health of the planet by achieving carbon neutrality and making all their facilities "0 Waste". So you can enjoy your summer spraying ISDIN's lovely sun protection products onto your skin by the beach knowing that your skin is protected and that you aren't harming the ocean or the planet!
Apivita
Apivita was first founded in Athens, Greece, by two pharmacists who were pioneers in environmental sustainability. The name itself can be translated to "life of the bee", a fitting name since their products are all infused with pure bee products such as honey, propolis and royal jelly. They also harness the power of Greek nature to create effective, natural products. The importance of bees in preserving the world's ecosystem has recently made headlines. This is why Apivita is collaborating with the 1% for the Planet Organization in the "Billion Bees Program", a program dedicated to the regeneration of honeybee populations. Apivita is continuously striving to promote environmental awareness while providing sustainably packaged products derived from natural, sustainably harnessed sources. They are proud members of the 1% For The Planet Organisation and are also B Corp Certified. Apivita has a wide range of products for all skin concerns and hair types. Supporting this brand means you'll be enjoying effective and luxurious products while aiding in the regeneration of our most precious resources.
Uriage
One day while at the beach I noticed that the sea was not only warmer than usual, but it also felt as though an oily film had settled on top of it. I returned to the shore and looked up why this was happening. I read a few articles about how the formulas of sunscreens contain non-biodegradable ingredients which are now mixing with the sea and becoming toxic. I quickly pulled out my favourite Uriage Bariesun Spray SPF 50+ and looked at the packaging, breathing a sigh of relief when I saw the big "ocean respect" sticker on the front. I've always trusted Uriage to protect my sensitive skin from the harsh UV rays we're exposed to in Malta, so I was happy to know that I wasn't harming the sea while protecting myself.
This summer I've switched to the Bariesun Eco-Tube, which is made with 45% less plastic thanks to its durable cardboard tube. Uriage's Bariesun range is a range committed to the planet, with the "ocean respect" label and a partnership with 1% For The Planet. If you want to keep enjoying our beautiful beaches for years to come, make sure that your sunblock has a sea-friendly formula.
Puressentiel
If you're an aromatherapy lover then you've definitely heard of Puressentiel (and if not you should read my easy guide to aromatherapy: https://www.theglowperspective.com/post/an-easy-guide-to-aromatherapy) The Puressentiel Foundation is a pioneer in environmental activism, having planted 530,000 new trees in 2023, organised over 80 ocean clean up missions, and enabled the protection of 3,650,000 bees since 2018. This foundation also protects biodiversity in the Amazon region, the most biologically diverse region in the world. One of their 2023 projects has the aim of specifically helping the Association of Mothers Entrepreneurs of Biodiversity Club of Lámud - Amazonas-Peru, a collective of 120 women who are trained to be "guardians of biodiversity". Their ranges are designed with their commitment to the planet in mind, as well as their commitment to providing the highest quality of products to consumers. The next time you're looking for an essential oil, a room diffuser or a remedy for the flu, muscle soreness, bumps, bruises, etc., look no further than Puressentiel!
If you would like to read more about the commitments each brand has made to the planet, you can check out the links below:
Apivita
Uriage
Puressentiel
Amazing! I will check out these products asap