Many of us like to bring a festive spirit to our homes over the festive period. Candles are an age-old way to bright light to the dark evenings. They are great to create a cosy ambiance inside, especially, I feel, at this time of year.
But whether you are lighting candles in your own home, or giving festive candles as gifts – it is important to make the right choice. For the sake of your own health, and for the health of the planet, choose candles carefully.
Unfortunately, many candles are derived from finite and polluting fossil fuels. Paraffin wax candles are not a sustainable or healthy choice. I would highly recommend that you opt for a more eco-friendly alternative. It will not only mean that you will be avoiding perpetuating damaging systems – it will also help you improve air quality in your home.
Beeswax candles are one more sustainable alternative to paraffin candles to consider. Though some vegans may prefer to avoid them, they are an entirely natural product, and I believe can be ethical as long as natural beekeeping practices have been followed.
Vegans may prefer for opt for soy-based waxes. But soy can be a problematic crop, and in certain places, contributes to widespread deforestation. If the origins of the soy are not clear, then I would generally advise steering clear.
Candles may seem like an innocuous thing. But as with so many other things, the deeper you delve the more complex choosing them can become. I opt for organic beeswax candles in my house, and love them for bringing some much needed Christmas coziness and cheer.
If you would like more tips to decorate and create a sustainable atmosphere in your home for the festive period, please do feel free to get in touch for a customised sustainability plan for you and your family.
EWSP Consultancy 