How to Celebrate Earth Day with Sustainable Jewellery
Updated: Apr 27
Earth Day is an annual event that celebrates the planet and its resources. It is a day to reflect on our impact on the environment and to take action to protect it. This year, Earth Day falls on April 22. The theme for Earth Day 2023 is "Invest in Our Planet."
Earth Day is a time to think about how we can protect our environment for future generations. One way to do this is to make sustainable choices, like choosing ethical jewellery and supporting small businesses who are committed to reducing plastic waste.
Ethical Jewellery
Ethical jewellery is made with materials that are sourced and produced in a way that does not harm the environment or the people who make it.
There are a number of ways to make sure jewellery is more ethical and sustainable:
1. Ethically and Responsibly Sourced Materials
Choose jewellery where the materials used are ethically and responsibly sourced. Sennen Jewellery, Seaside jewellery and Kernow Gold have chosen local and small designers who have committed to environmental goals. The suppliers of the 9ct Gold ranges are members of the Responsible Jewellery Council, which is the global membership and standards body for responsible jewellery throughout the entire supply chain – from mine to retail. They have a Code of Practice with key frameworks, including the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Recycled silver and locally sourced recycled silver are also good practices to look out for.
2. Eco Packaging
Sennen Jewellery, Seaside jewellery and Kernow Gold have become Business Champions for the Surfers Against Sewage "Plastic Free Communities" initiative. These online jewellery stores have committed to reduce and eventually exclude all single use plastic such as bubble wrap in padded envelopes and even in the foam in jewellery boxes. Eco-foam jewellery box inserts are now used, which are made from made from tall oil - a by-product from wooden pulp, which is a part of the paper production process. The inserts are (of course) tested free from tarnish and made without plastic and unwanted chemistry.
The Benefits of Ethical Jewellery
One way to invest in our planet is to choose ethical jewellery. Ethical jewellery is made from recycled materials, mined with sustainable practices, and produced in ethical working conditions. When you buy ethical jewellery, you are helping to protect the environment and support fair labour practices.
Here are some of the benefits of buying ethical jewellery:
It's better for the environment. The mining of precious metals can have a devastating impact on the environment. When mining for gold, for example, large amounts of water are used, and the mining process can pollute the water and air. By buying ethical jewellery, you can help to reduce the environmental impact of jewellery production.
It supports fair labour practices. The jewellery industry is often associated with child labour and other forms of exploitation. By buying ethical jewellery, you can help to ensure that the people who make your jewellery are treated fairly.
It's a beautiful way to express your values. Ethical jewellery is a great way to show the world that you care about the environment and social justice. When you wear ethical jewellery, you are making a statement about your values.
Celebrate Earth Day with Sustainable Jewellery
There are many ways to celebrate earth day with sustainable and ethical jewellery. Here are a few ideas:
Buy ethical jewellery. When you buy ethical jewellery, you are supporting businesses that are committed to sustainability. You can find ethical jewellery at Sennen Jewellery, Seaside jewellery and Kernow Gold.
Donate your old jewellery. If you have any old jewellery that you no longer wear, consider donating it to a charity or charity shop. This will help to keep jewellery out of landfills and give it a second life.
Repair your jewellery. If your jewellery is broken or damaged, consider having it repaired instead of replacing it. This will help to extend the life of your jewellery and reduce waste.
Upcycle your jewellery. If you have any old jewellery that you no longer wear, consider upcycling it into something new. Metals can be melted down and formed into a completely new piece of jewellery whilst retaining the links with the past. Sennen Jewellery can help in this with their custom jewellery design service.
Choose jewellery that is designed to last. Well-made jewellery will last for years, so you can enjoy it for a long time. Gold jewellery, Sterling Silver jewellery, Cornish tin Jewellery and Murano Glass jewellery are all made to stand the test of time.
Choose jewellery made locally. This reduces the environmental cost of transporting or importing jewellery and also safeguards local small businesses and jobs.
Do your research. If you would like to make sure that a particular piece of jewellery is ethically sourced then asking the store will be a good source of information. They will be likely to be happy to help, and if they are not then you probably have your answer!
Get involved in environmental advocacy; there are many charities investing in our planet. Surfers against Sewage (SAS) for example is a UK charity founded in 1990 by a group of surfers in Cornwall, England. The charity's mission is to protect oceans, waves, beaches and marine life. SAS campaigns for a clean ocean, rivers and lakes for wildlife and people.
Reduce your personal plastic waste by choosing jewellery stores that have committed to reducing plastic waste, and bringing less plastic into your home, for example choosing fruit that is loose rather than packaged in plastic.
By following these tips, you can find ethical jewellery that is beautiful, sustainable, and fair. When you buy ethical jewellery, you are making a difference for the planet and the people who make it.
Every Little Bit Helps
By making small changes in our daily lives, we can make a big difference for our planet.
On Earth Day 2023, let's all commit to investing in our planet. Let's make choices that support sustainable practices and protect our natural resources. Let's support businesses and organizations that are working to make a difference. Together, we can create a more sustainable future for our planet.
FAQs: Sustainable Jewellery
What Makes Silver Jewellery Design Sustainable?
Sustainable silver jewellery design involves using recycled or ethically sourced materials, minimizing waste in the production process, and ensuring fair labor practices. By choosing sustainable silver jewellery, you can support ethical and environmentally conscious practices in the industry.
What are Some Eco-Friendly Materials used in Silver Jewellery Design?
Eco-friendly materials used in sustainable silver jewellery design include recycled silver, fair trade gold, and conflict-free diamonds. Some designers also use Eco foam inserts made from Tall Oil in jewellery boxes instead of foam made from plastic.
What is Tall Oil and Why is it Eco Friendly?
Tall oil is a by-product of the wood pulp and paper manufacturing process, specifically from the process used to convert wood chips into pulp. Tall oil is eco-friendly because it is a renewable resource and a by-product that would otherwise go to waste. It can be used in a variety of applications, including as a source of biofuels, as a component in adhesives, and as a substitute for fossil fuel-derived products such as plastics. Additionally, tall oil can be processed using environmentally friendly methods, such as by using enzymes rather than harsh chemicals.
Can Sustainable Silver Jewellery Design be Fashionable and Trendy?
Absolutely! Many designers are creating stunning and fashion-forward sustainable silver jewellery pieces that reflect current trends and styles. By choosing sustainable options, you can make a fashion statement while also supporting ethical and environmentally friendly practices.
Why is Sustainable Silver Jewellery Design Important?
Sustainable silver jewellery design is important because it supports ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability. By choosing sustainable options, you can make a positive impact on the industry and contribute to a more responsible and conscious approach to jewellery design.
What is Plastic-Free jewellery?
Plastic-free jewellery is made without the use of any plastic materials, including packaging. Instead, sustainable and eco-friendly materials such as recycled metals, natural gemstones, and biodegradable packaging are used.
Why is it Important to Choose Plastic-Free Jewellery?
Choosing plastic-free jewellery is important for the environment as plastic waste is a major contributor to pollution and has a negative impact on wildlife. By choosing plastic-free jewellery, you are making a conscious effort to reduce your environmental impact.
