Here at The Carat Shop (we, our), our ultimate goal, is to ensure we are working in the most ethical and responsible way possible, in all aspect of our business. With these principals at the forefront of our decision-making process, we have taken the approach to reduce the impact our business has on the environment.
Much progress has been made in the development of sustainable packaging materials and we have been exploring alternative products in line with the above.
The re design of gift boxes to use, where possible, card sourced from FSC- certified card products, slimmer box designs and mat finish on printing (instead of gloss lamination to reduce plastic use).
What does FSC- Certified mean?
- Zero Deforestation- Although trees are harvested, there is no net loss of forest over time.
- Environmental protection- FSC certification requires biodiversity to be maintained, and high conversion value areas - including old growth forests – to be protected.
- Indigenous Peoples’ rights respected- FSC certification requires forest inhabitants to be consulted and engaged, and cultural rights to be maintained.
- Fair wage and work environment for workers- FSC certification requires training, safety and decent wages for all workers.
Other steps we are taking are:
- Reduce our consumption of single use plastic and PET boxes.
- Replace foam inserts with Fair Trade, cotton gift pouches.
- If there is ever an absolute need for plastic, we will endeavour to use only recyclable plastic.
- Revise our shipping procedures - using recyclable envelopes and recyclable, reusable and biodegradable bubble wrap.
- Re using old shipping cartons or responsibly recycle.
- Use of paper gummed tape instead of brown packaging plastic packaging tape.
Factory Audits – all our factories are regularly audited to the highest standards to ensure good employment practice and fair working conditions across our workforce.
