Understanding the language used around eco-friendly products can help you make informed choices. Here’s a breakdown of key terms related to wax melts, sustainability, and air quality.

Biodegradable

A material is biodegradable if it can break down naturally over time with the help of bacteria and other organisms. This means it won’t leave lasting pollution or harmful waste in the environment. However, biodegradable does not always mean a product will break down quickly or in all conditions—some materials still require industrial composting.

Sustainability

Sustainability means using resources in a way that meets today’s needs without harming the ability of future generations to meet theirs. In home fragrance, this includes using waxes made from renewable sources (like soy or coconut) and avoiding ingredients that cause environmental damage, such as paraffin (a by-product of fossil fuels).

Deforestation

Deforestation is the large-scale clearing of forests, often to make space for agriculture, logging, or urban development. It contributes to climate change, habitat loss, and biodiversity decline. Some soy production has been linked to deforestation, but KeraSoy only sources soy from ethically audited suppliers who do not contribute to this problem.

Eco-Friendly vs. Eco-Conscious

A product or brand is considered eco-friendly if it actively reduces environmental harm—such as using biodegradable materials or minimising carbon emissions. Eco-conscious, on the other hand, means a person or company is aware of environmental issues and trying to make responsible choices, but may not always be perfect in practice. For example, while KeraSoy is more sustainable than paraffin, it is not entirely free from environmental impact.

Greenwashing

Greenwashing happens when a company makes misleading claims about how environmentally friendly its products are. This can include vague labels like "all-natural" without proof, using eco-friendly packaging while still selling harmful products, or exaggerating sustainability efforts. A truly eco-friendly brand is transparent about both the strengths and limitations of its products.

Renewable

A resource is renewable if it can be naturally replaced over time. For example, soybeans used to make soy wax are renewable because they can be replanted and grown again, unlike fossil fuels, which take millions of years to form.

Non-Toxic

A non-toxic product is one that does not contain harmful chemicals that could cause health problems when used as intended. Some cheaper waxes and fragrance oils may contain toxins like phthalates or formaldehyde, which can affect air quality. Choosing non-toxic wax melts means selecting products free from these harmful substances.

Vegan-Friendly

A vegan-friendly product contains no ingredients derived from animals and has not been tested on animals. Some candle waxes contain stearic acid, which can be made from animal fats, but in KeraSoy’s case, it is plant-based.

Cruelty-Free

A cruelty-free product has not been tested on animals at any stage of production. This applies to the wax itself, as well as any fragrance oils or dyes used in the product.

Paraffin-Free

A paraffin-free product does not contain paraffin wax, which is made from petroleum. Paraffin is widely used in candles and wax melts because it’s cheap and has a strong scent throw, but it can release harmful chemicals when burned. Choosing paraffin-free alternatives, like soy or coconut wax, helps reduce indoor air pollution and environmental impact.

Phthalate-Free

Phthalates (pronounced THAL-ates) are chemicals often used in synthetic fragrances to make scents last longer. However, some types of phthalates have been linked to health concerns, particularly when inhaled regularly. A phthalate-free wax melt means the fragrance oils used do not contain these potentially harmful chemicals.

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs are chemicals that evaporate into the air at room temperature and can affect indoor air quality. Some VOCs, like those found in paraffin candles, can be harmful over time, contributing to respiratory issues and even cancer risks. Soy wax and high-quality fragrance oils produce far fewer VOCs than paraffin-based products.

Carbon Footprint

A carbon footprint measures the total greenhouse gas emissions caused by a product or activity. A lower carbon footprint means a product has had less environmental impact during its production, transport, and use. Soy and coconut wax have a much lower carbon footprint than paraffin because they come from renewable, plant-based sources rather than fossil fuels.

Genetically Modified (GMO)

A genetically modified organism (GMO) has had its DNA altered in a lab to give it certain traits, such as pest resistance or faster growth. Some soy waxes come from GMO soybeans, but KeraSoy only uses non-GMO soy, meaning its soybeans are grown naturally without genetic engineering.

Supply Chain Auditing

A supply chain audit is when a company checks where its materials come from and how they are produced. This helps ensure ethical sourcing, environmental responsibility, and fair working conditions. KeraSoy undergoes supply chain auditing to confirm its soy is sourced without deforestation or unethical practices.

Clean Burn

A clean burn means that when a wax or candle melts, it burns without producing soot, excess smoke, or harmful chemicals. Paraffin wax can create black soot and release toxins, whereas plant-based waxes like KeraSoy burn much cleaner, making them a healthier option for home fragrance.

Ethically Sourced

If a product is ethically sourced, it means that the materials used have been obtained in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible. For example, KeraSoy uses soy from suppliers who do not contribute to deforestation, ensuring a more sustainable and ethical supply chain.

This glossary is designed to help you understand the key terms used in discussions about wax melts and sustainability, making it easier to choose products that align with your values. If you have any questions, feel free to ask—I believe in transparency and helping customers make informed decisions. 😊